Need a cool hangout for coffee and brunch? We help you keep tabs on the best new cafes in Singapore each month.
A new month beckons, which means more fresh eateries to visit during the weekends. From indulgent desserts and artisanal coffee to hearty brunch options, we’ve got your back with a kickin’ list of new cafes in Singapore for you to check out in May.
Best new cafes in Singapore: May 2024
Kwaasong Bakeshop
This bakery’s name is a tongue-in-cheek play on how locals mispronounce the word, croissant, and we love it! It’s endearing when businesses don’t take themselves too seriously. A stone’s throw away from Clarke Quay MRT station, the bakeshop is all about French pastries, including – you guessed it – the quintessential “kwaasong”. The flaky exterior gives way to a soft, airy dough and the buttery richness will win you over after the first bite.
If you’re not into croissants (sacre bleu!), drop your dollars on the other bakes. Kwaasong’s take on the Portuguese egg tart is an oval-shaped creation with a crisp, flaky pastry crust and caramelised top. The truffle taleggio fold is something savoury to add to your tray. Ask the staff to warm up your pastries so that you can enjoy them as if they’re just out of the oven.
Kwaasong Bakeshop, 13 Lorong Telok, Singapore 049026
Tom’s Palette
This Middle Road stalwart has expanded with a second outlet in Kovan, which pays homage to the neighbourhood’s heritage. Step into the cheery sunshine yellow space decorated with eye-catching artwork and grab a table at the back or sit facing the counter. Enjoy the outlet-exclusive cone made of putu mayam (steamed rice flour ‘vermicelli’ with shredded coconut and orange sugar) or freshly-made waffles to go with your choice of gelato flavour.
Speaking of flavour, there are 18 for you to choose from at any time; six are yellow-hued Kovan-exclusive creations that match the decor, like honey apricot cardamom and white chocolate passionfruit. If you’re a creature of habit, you can continue getting your familiar faves like Sicilian pistachio and salted caramel cheesecake.
Tom’s Palette, #01-333, 212 Hougang Street 21, Singapore 530212
Buzzed Coffee Bar
Even after all these years, we still don’t know the specifics of the East Coast plan. But if it involves coffee, we’re totally on board. Now, here’s the buzz on the newest coffee bar in Siglap. Taking over from Bloom Coffee (sobs), Buzzed retains its predecessor’s Scandinavian vibes but adds a bar and alfresco seating.
Early risers can drop by (it opens at 8am daily) and get their dose of caffeine. Enjoy espresso-based specialty coffee and filter coffee made of beans from Filter Coffee Roasters. There are also non-coffee options like drinking chocolate and matcha if you prefer those. Pair your drink with croissant sandwiches, all-day sides, pasta, and sharing plates. Don’t skip the sweet treats! The lychee rose financier comes highly recommended.
Swap the coffee for alcoholic beverages if you’re here in the evenings. The extensive list includes craft beers and beer on tap, cocktails, wine, and cider.
Buzzed Coffee Bar, Goodwill Court, 87 Upper East Coast Road, Singapore 455223
The Flour Department
Everton Park is a treasure trove of funky cafes, and this latest addition is another one to visit if you’re in the ‘hood. The Flour Department originally started as a home-based business before making the leap into the brick-and-mortar world with its first physical store in Chinatown. The new space is bigger and awash in pink, from the walls and countertops down to the seats.
We’re sure you’ve seen the quirky tomato-shaped bagel, which is making its rounds on social media. There’s plenty to savour: crispy chicken katsu, cheesy scrambled egg, and Japanese curry potato. If you prefer something sweet, the Bailey’s Nutella cookies and cream banana chocolate chip bagel (what a mouthful) are the ones to get. Note that the menu changes regularly, so flavours are available for a limited time.
Besides bagels, diners can enjoy stuffed mochi cookies, cakes, and dine-in specials like mentaiko rosti cheese garlic butter french toast bagel and pistachio tang yuan dessert. Follow the cafe on Instagram to receive updates on its menu and operating hours.
The Flour Department, #01-36, 5 Everton Park, Singapore 080005
Bullock Cart Coffee
This new coffee spot claims “good things happen after coffee”, and we can vouch for that. If you’re in the same boat and working around Chinatown, pop by Hong Lim Complex and check out Bullock Cart Coffee. Despite being in a small space, there’s a snug spot where you can take a break from the rigours of daily life and sip on your choice of caffeine.
The drinks menu is lean: you can enjoy the usual black and white or try the taro latte. There’s also a selection of bites to go along with your coffee. Get the much-talked-about lychee cruffin, or order the egg mayo croissant if you want something savoury. Nothing strikes your fancy? Chat with the mother-son duo for recommendations or specials.
Bullock Cart Coffee, #02-57A, Hong Lim Complex, 531 Upper Cross Street, Singapore 050531
Best new cafes in Singapore: April 2024
Frankie & Fern’s
Just when you think there’s no more space in Holland Village for new cafes, it surprises you by doing the opposite. Frankie & Fern’s is the latest rooftop hidden gem that has taken up residence in Holland Road Shopping Centre. Getting to the cafe requires a bit of navigating (find the elevator between the bank and the money changer, which will take you up), but once you arrive, you’re greeted by a lush, serene space that truly feels like a home.
Brunch offerings are available till 4pm, with items including Frankie’s Breakfast (a massive platter filled with brekkie essentials), Fern’s Avocado Toasted, and the highly-raved roasted short ribs toast. If you missed the brunch options, there are lunch and dinner dishes for you to choose from. P.S. enjoy the panoramic view of the neighbourhood before tucking into your meal.
Frankie & Fern’s, #04-03, Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278967
Deli by The Meatery
There’s no such thing as too many sandwich joints in Singapore. That’s why we’re pleased to welcome this Muslim-owned cafe with open arms. It’s located in the west, which is another huge plus for anyone living on that side of the world. This new establishment is a collaboration between Penny University and gourmet butchery The Meatery.
Where do we start? Obviously, the top-notch sandos, which are inspired by New York’s bodega sandwiches. The Tiga Decker, with its three types of meat (smoked chicken ham, beef brisket, and lychee wood-smoked beef bacon), is screaming out to us. And here’s the best part: every order comes with a side of chips. Hello, carb overload!
If you’re not keen on sandwiches (excuse me?!), other treats are in store. The ayam percik burger gets top marks just for existing (it’s also really delish), or you can consider chowing down on the Butcher’s Breakfast, which consists of Angus picanha steak, chimichurri sauce, handmade chilli sausage, cajun roasted potatoes, and scrambled eggs. There’s a small selection of bakes too, if you’re really not that hungry.
Deli by The Meatery, #01-08, Clementi Arcade, 41 Sunset Way, Singapore 597071
Scoop & Sketch
When you think of cool ‘hoods in Singapore, you probably wouldn’t consider Aljunied. Well, this new cafe is about to up the enclave’s funky fresh quotient. The first thing that’ll catch your eye? The colourful and quirky aesthetics: think neon-lit signs, bright seats, and cartoonish decor.
If you’re looking for “the scoop”, it’s on the first floor. You can enjoy gelato in flavours like matcha Kit Kat, peanut butter strawberry jelly, and salted butterscotch. Have yours in a cone, cup, or with freshly made waffles. Wash it down with craft beers, coffees, or Korean convenience store sodas. The sketch aspect, aka the tattoo parlour, is located on the second floor. Diners can get inked by Naked Skin Tattoo or watch someone get a tattoo. The cafe is also pet-friendly, so pawrents can bring along their four-legged companions.
Scoop & Sketch, #01-01, Atrix, 82 Lorong 23 Geylang, Singapore 388409
Cafe Carrera
Wake up bestie, ‘cos you’ll want to sit up for this: Baker & Cook has established another cafe, and it’s right smack in the middle of a swanky car brand’s showroom. Cafe Carrera occupies a corner on the ground floor of Porsche Studio Singapore’s brand-new digs in Guoco Midtown. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a keen car buyer to drop by this new space.
Its surprisingly extensive menu is broken down into sections with names such as Timeless Classics (quiches and pastries), Pit Stops (light bites like fries, sliders, and mini pies), and Dashboard Delicacies (tarts and cakes). The laundry list of beverages offered here includes specialty coffee, cocktails and non-alcoholic varieties, beers, and smoothies. Sit down at the adjacent tribune seating space to enjoy your food.
Cafe Carrera, #01-11, Porsche Studio Singapore, Guoco Midtown, 130 Beach Road, Singapore 189774
Vernacular Coffee
Every friend group has one person who can’t function without their dose of caffeine. Help your pal satisfy their craving by bringing them (and your clique) to Vernacular Coffee, a new minimalist spot near Mountbatten MRT station. If this place looks familiar, you’re absolutely right – this was Brawn and Brains Coffee’s original location before it moved.
Here’s where guests can sip on eight single-origin coffees from Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Thailand. Non-coffee drinkers can choose chocolate beverages from Malaysia or the Philippines. Pair your drink with flaky viennoiseries, brunch options such as eggs Benedict, or ice cream sandwiches.
Vernacular Coffee, #01-02, 100 Guillemard Road, Singapore 399718
Best new cafes in Singapore: March 2024
Tarik
This buzzy teh tarik joint is growing from strength to strength. If you’re weary of the long lines at its takeaway outlet across Sultan Mosque, skip the queue by popping over to its dine-in cafe – which bears the same name as its predecessor – at Bali Lane. You can find fan faves here, including the eponymous drink, teh karak, and saffron tea. There are also fancy options for you to try, like siphon teas and coffees, concoctions with cream cheese foam topping, and fizzy flavoured Americanos.
Another thing that sets this locale apart from the Arab Street flagship is the decor. Here, the look is industrial futuristic, with grey cement walls, neon lighting, and simple furniture. Be sure to check out the cool toilet!
Tarik, 16 Bali Lane, Singapore 189852
Betsubara Creamery & Cafe
When one door closes, another one opens. Though we’re crestfallen about Around’s closure, we’re pleased that Betsubara Creamery & Cafe has opened a new outlet in Tampines. Fun fact: “Betsubara” means separate stomach in Japanese, which suggests that we should always have room for desserts. How clever!
Those counting their calories will be glad to know the cafe’s offerings are low in fat and sugar. Pair your ice cream of choice with the signature Hokkaido butter waffles, which are crispy on the outside and chewy inside. While there are plenty of tables to enjoy your cold treats, we recommend you order them for takeaway and eat at the futuristic-looking area beside the counter.
Betsubara Creamery & Cafe, #01-01, Tampines GreenVerge, 625B Tampines Street 61, Singapore 522625
Penny University
Cafe hopping experts should be familiar with this famous coffeehouse. After moving its operations to Bugis in late 2022, Penny U (as it’s lovingly known) expanded its presence with a new outlet in Geylang. Like its flagship cafe, this branch also sports a minimalist aesthetic further accentuated by natural lighting, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass walls lining the entrance.
What’s on the menu? Plenty of brunch staples, including the classic eggs Benedict, Harlem-style buttermilk chicken on waffles, and French toast. We recommend the steak frites if you’re hankering for something satisfying. Wash everything down with a selection of interesting coffee brews like espresso with milk, or jaffa mocha, which incorporates oranges.
Penny University, #01-06, Wisma Geylang Serai, 1 Engku Aman Turn, Singapore 408528
Jypsy
When did you last visit East Coast Park? If you can’t remember, set aside some time to drop by, ‘cos Jypsy has unveiled its second outlet within the expansive green space. Patrons can look forward to savouring contemporary Japanese cuisine against the oceanic backdrop.
Expect the classics such as the Jypsy salmon tacos, which pairs tortillas with crispy seafood, and the Nest of Fries, featuring crispy shredded potato drizzled with white truffle oil, wasabi mayo, and teriyaki sauce. Also check out the outlet-exclusive brunch menu featuring green tea soba salad, sous vide wagyu sando, and the Jypsy big breakfast. Psst: there’s even a kids’ menu for the little ones!
Jypsy, #01-25/26/27, Parkland Green, 920 East Coast Park, Singapore 449875
Home Dawn
If you’re looking for a home away from home, you can find it at this new cafe in Clarke Quay. You’ll be greeted by a set-up reminiscent of a comfy bedroom at the entrance, so feel free to take loads of photos here. Climb the flight of (steep) stairs to the second floor, which looks like a beloved music studio, and let the warmth and familiar energy envelope you. Make yourself at home by grabbing a table near the window, which looks out on the Singapore River.
Pore over the extensive brunch menu for local faves and fascinating creations catering to every palate. The gochujang ayam nasi lemak presents the breakfast staple with a Korean twist, while voracious eaters will find comfort in Homie’s Breakfast, with its smorgasbord of sourdough toast, bacon, tomatoes, avocado, and tater tots. If you’re here on the weekend, a one-piece acoustic live band will accompany you with its soothing interpretation of popular hits.
Home Dawn, #02-03, 3A River Valley Road, Singapore 179020
Best new cafes in Singapore: February 2024
Ami Patisserie
It always heartens us when we learn an online business has made the leap to set up a brick-and-mortar establishment. Ami Patisserie, which started as an online pastry shop in 2021, has just opened a standalone store in Scotts Road. Housed in a colonial bungalow, the new cafe’s interior is inspired by Kyoto‘s traditional wooden townhouses. Soft, natural light lends a gorgeous, inviting glow to the intimate 12-seater. Of course, everyone’s most looking forward to chef Makoto Arami’s creations, particularly his signature Mont Blanc tarts and choux puffs. Before you run to this new space, be sure to make reservations – the cafe doesn’t accept walk-ins.
Ami Patisserie, 27 Scotts Road, Singapore 228222
Ingen Kyoto
Speaking of Kyoto, if you’re not planning to visit the city this year, we know the next best option. The team behind Hvala has opened this new Japanese tea speciality spot in Ion Orchard. Inspired by Buddhist monk Ingen Ryuki (hence the name), here’s where you can enjoy a wide range of teas which are imported from Japan. Each tea can be brewed up to three times before losing its flavour profile. Take a seat and enjoy matcha blends, white teas, and cold brews. What pairs best with tea? Desserts, of course. The menu changes as and when, so you’ll get something different whenever you decide to visit.
Ingen Kyoto, #B3-15/16, Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801
Slow Boat
You’re invited to step back to a time when analogue ruled the world. Occupying the second storey of a shophouse on Craig Road, Slow Boat is the first vinyl-listening cafe in Singapore. Browse through its collection (we spotted contemporary artists like Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, and even K-pop bands such as Twice), pick what you want to listen to, and grab a seat on the plush chairs. Entry to this cool new cafe will set you back $30, which allows you to stay for an hour and includes a drink of your choice. We recommend a tall glass of iced yuzu tea – the perfect companion to music and whiling the day away.
Slow Boat, 2F, 45A Craig Road, Singapore 089683
Patisserie Cle
For most people, birthdays are an intimate affair. That’s not the case for Patisserie Cle. This beloved pastry shop celebrates its fifth-year milestone by expanding its presence to River Valley. The expansion also signals brand new creations added to the menu, such as the apple nutmeg cake, a flagship exclusive that resembles the red fruit. If you like tropical flavours, sink your teeth into the Tropico Tart, which features mango and passion fruit compote as well as coconut mousse.
Those looking for something more filling will be happy to know there are breakfast treats, generous stacks, and other quick-meal options on the revamped menu. How does a honey paprika chicken croissant sandwich sound? The caramelised brioche toast, which comes with strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream, sounds like a decadent dream for all sweet tooths. Keep your eyes peeled for its limited weekend specials too.
Patisserie Cle, 415 River Valley Road, Singapore 248314
Book Bar
Pardon our excitement – this is, without a doubt, the best of both worlds for us. Duxton‘s new kid on the block is a combination of an eclectic bookstore, which focuses on local literature, and a cosy coffee space. The menu is lean, boasting the standard coffee and tea orders alongside snacks and sandwiches. You can even make your own sando with ingredients such as baked beans, cheddar cheese, and eggs. Book Bar also serves as a gathering place where like-minded folks can meet and network through interesting events. If anything else, you can just grab a cuppa and have a chat about books with the founder, who’s there every day.
Book Bar, 57 Duxton Road, Singapore 089521
Best new cafes in Singapore: January 2024
Tipo Osteria
The Tipo team has done it again; this time, it’s launched a vintage Italian concept in Jalan Besar. What’s different about this one? Unlike the OG’s DIY format, this iteration follows the Italian osteria style, with its menu divided into antipasti, primi, secondi, and dolce. Choose to order a la carte, though we highly recommend going for the set menu option – you’ll get more bang for your buck. Also, you can order the Tipo dishes you know and love at this eatery too.
Besides pasta, diners can look forward to homemade bread and pastries, including mushroom feta and bruschetta. Don’t get yourself too full though – you’ll want to save some space for desserts. While the tiramisu is a perennial favourite, try something new by ordering the olive oil cake or ricotta semifreddo. Sip and savour the housecraft beverages, mocktails, or non-alcoholic wine, and just watch the world go by at this cosy new cafe.
Tipo Osteria, #01-05, 16 Hamilton Road, Singapore 209186
Ugly Cones and Asylum: The Coffee Library
Are you into cold sweet treats? Make a mental note to visit this new hole-in-the-wall cafe on Orchard Road. The Japanese-inspired dessert store shines the spotlight on the oft-forgotten ice cream cone, making it the shop’s bonafide star. Be sure to get your hands on the signature Orijinaru Ugly Cone, which promises to elevate your ice cream experience.
Now, you may be wondering: what about the ice cream? Currently, the cafe is introducing three flavours that pair perfectly with the signature cone. Choose between chocolate, strawberry, and miruku-ame (a combination of Hokkaido milk, Madagascar vanilla, and mizuame). “Zhng” up your choice with mochi bites or flavoured jelly toppings.
Next door to the ice cream kiosk is a coffee library brought to you by the masterminds behind Asylum Coffeehouse. Step inside and let the librarians take you on a journey of all things coffee. You’ll learn about the where, when, what, how, and why of coffee beans, as well as marvel at myriad cold brews and coffee types. If you’re unsure of what to get, the cold brew comes highly recommended.
Ugly Cones, #B1-04, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Road, Singapore 238877
Plain Meredith
They say life is better with pets. Well, “they” have the right idea. If you’re inseparable from your furry friend(s), Plain Meredith is a haven where you two can spend time together outside of your home. Located within Singapore’s latest shopping mall One Holland Village, this cafe is regarded as an extension of the beloved Baker’s Brew.
A lot of thought has been put into the menus, which cater to humans and pets alike. Two-legged beings can feast on items such as steak and eggs, tagliatelle lamb ragu, and mouthwatering in-house creations like the Meredith salad and Plain Meredith burger. But before feeding yourselves, don’t forget to indulge your four-legged companions. The pet treat corner features tailor-made goodies pawparents can easily scoop out for their furkids.
This space also functions as an event space where you can host celebrations like your pet’s birthday. How cool is that? There’s always room for another pet-friendly institution in Singapore.
Plain Meredith, #02-23/24, One Holland Village, 7 Holland Village Way, Singapore 275748
Nickel
Westies are probably still grieving over the closure of Lee’s Confectionery. Wipe those tears, folks, because the popular bakery has resurfaced at a new location and with a new name. Nickel derives from the French phrase “C’est nickel”, which means it’s perfect. We can’t think of a better name for this rebranded cafe. And why the move? It’s all thanks to customers’ requests. Middle Road is easier to reach compared to Jurong, yes?
The offerings may be slim at the mo (it’s in a soft launch phase), but that’s a good enough excuse to make return trips when Nickel has ironed everything out eventually. If you’re planning to drop by, enjoy viennoiseries and coffee. We have high hopes for this new cafe in Singapore.
Nickel, #01-01, 258 Middle Road, Singapore 188987
Louisa Coffee
What’s the one thing you miss after returning from Taiwan? If you answered coffee, you’re in luck. The popular Louisa Coffee, which boasts over 180 outlets in Taipei, has opened its international store right here in Singapore. Residing within Guoco Midtown in Bugis, the specialty chain will serve fresh coffee and in-house bakes. Psst: we hear there’s a coffee roaster on site.
Those who are looking to do some work or power up their gadgets while sipping a cuppa will be glad to know there’s a power point at each table. No more having to share with other patrons!
Louisa Coffee, #01-13 & #01-14, Guoco Midtown, 130 Beach Road, Singapore 189774
Add these new cafes in Singapore to your 2024 bucket list!