The 50 best cafés in Singapore

What it is A hidden glasshouse-inspired café that’s perfect for those looking for a quiet spot to have coffee.

Why we love it While the Katong/Joo Chiat area is always lively, those who wish to get away from the crowds can find peace at The Brewing Ground. Tucked away at the site of the old Telok Kurau Primary School, The Brewing Ground offers an extensive brunch menu, with options like wagyu bacon cheeseburgers ($26) and full breakfasts ($26) complete with sausages, hash browns, and sautéed spinach and mushrooms. If you’re craving a mid-day sweet treat, opt for the crispy yet fluffy buttermilk waffles topped with a scoop of ice cream and fresh berries ($12).

Time Out tip For a boozy afternoon tea session, opt for one the wines offered, or spike your iced drinks with a shot of Hendrick’s Gin for an additional $10.

What it is The first physical café from the people behind popular home bakery @youkneadcakes. 

Why we love it Occupying a second-floor shophouse space on Duxton Road, Butter Tgt is all cosy charm. The madeleines ($7.50 for three) here are a big reason why we love this place – they are wonderfully soft and buttery with a hint of crispiness on the edges. Citrusy bakes like the lemon pistachio cake ($6.80) were also just the right side of tart and dense. For a proper brunch, opt for savouries like avocado toast ($12) – a simple dish elevated by super fresh ingredients. 

Time Out tip Arrive early, preferably on a weekday, to avoid the queues. This also ups your chances of snagging a seat by the Art Deco windows, which provide maximum sunlight (and Instagram potential).

What it is An African-themed café with a rooftop lounge that overlooks neighbouring shophouses and the CBD area.

Why we love it It’s hard to find African food in Singapore, so Kafe Utu immediately stands out from the crowd with its menu. Brunch offerings include a creamy and rich Kenyan breakfast porridge made from millet, natural peanut butter, coconut cream, and mixed nuts ($20), and hotcakes made from ricotta cheese and topped with cardamom maple syrup for a spiced kick. For dessert, dig into crispy Swahili fried dough topped with soft serve ($15) or a kilifi cake ($12) – a coconut sponge cake soaked in Amaretto, and covered with meringue and seasonal berries.

Time Out tip Skip the usual flat whites and long blacks when dining at Kafe Utu. Instead, opt for the café’s special drinks like a latte mixed with ginger syrup ($8) or The Karanga ($12) – an iced white topped with peanut butter mascarpone cream.

What it is A hole-in-the-wall café near Boat Quay with excellent coffee and seasonal bakes. 

Why we love it Dawn feels like true sanctuary in the CBD. There’s nothing flashy about this space, just a long bar, warm beige walls, and sunlight streaming through a single rectangular window. Crack open a book and savour with single origin coffees, slow-brewed coffees, and a tight selection of tea. Don’t skip the bakes – these are made with love in-house. Standouts include the apple crumble, plum tart, and salted kinako friand, though the selection switches up based on the season. 

Time Out tip Swing by in the early morning (they open at 8am) when the crowd is thin and the sunlight hits just right.

What it is A cosy bakery that serves hearty food for people to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Why we love it You’ll feel comforted the moment you step into Micro Bakery, as the smell of freshly baked bread constantly fills the air. Despite having a few outlets scattered across the country, the Red House outlet is our favourite. Gorgeous tiled floors, subway tiles on the walls, and ample seating make this outlet the perfect place to stop and have a cup of coffee before moving on with your day. Enjoy delicious bakes like sourdough egg tarts (from $3.50) and walnut baguettes ($6) with a nice cup of coffee.

Time Out tip If you could only order one menu item, you have to get the persimmon tartine ($18). This seasonal item features smoked and fresh persimmon, housemade ricotta, and candied hazelnuts atop fluffy sourdough bread, which come together to create a burst of sweet, refreshing, and tangy flavours in your mouth.

What it is This restored pre-war shophouse is now a three-storey tea house, featuring three different spaces – Oriental, Japanese, and Korean.

Why we love it If you’re one of the lucky few who got to visit Tea Chapter for a tea appreciation workshop for Mother Tongue class, this place needs no introduction. For the uninitiated, this tranquil tea house offers 20 different types of tea from Fujian, Yun Nan, and Hangzhou, each with its own flavour profiles. Unlike having tea at a restaurant, Tea Chapter has created a cosy and comfortable environment where you can fully savour your tea with no interruptions. Pair your tea with some of Tea Chapter’s yummy snacks, like Dragon Well noodles, lotus leaf rice, and everyone’s favourite, tea eggs.

Time Out tip If you have time to spare, you have to try one of Tea Chapter’s tea appreciation workshops (from $48). The workshop is a great way to learn about the origins of the teas you sample, and see how each tea complements various tea snacks.

What it is A stylish teahouse that specialises in matcha-based beverages.

Why we love it You’ve probably seen the matcha girls on social media rave about Hvala as one of the best places to grab a cup of matcha, and they’re not wrong. Hvala serves matcha in a variety of ways – those who enjoy the strong matcha taste can get it straight (from $6), or balance out the flavour and have it as a latte (from $6.90). Although pricey, the ceremonial grade Hana matcha is a must-try (from $10.90): it has a rich flavour without being too bitter, and its creaminess pairs perfectly with fresh milk when served as a latte.

Time Out tip Stop by the Hvala’s Odeon Towers retail section. You can purchase stamps, hats, and even the same matcha powder and accessories the café uses to prepare your own matcha at home.

What it is A 70-seater café situated along Craig Road that pays homage to the beloved kopitiams from the 1950s to 80s.

Why we love it While modern cafés are gorgeous, there’s something so special about dining at an old-school café. Great Nanyang Heritage Café set out to capture that nostalgic charm of kopitiams from the yesteryears, complete with traditional wooden carved sign boards, marble tables, and of course, timeless local favourites. Different from other cafés on this list, you can find Singaporean delights like hor fun with egg ($6.90) and dry mee siam (from $8.90). If you’re looking to get your afternoon caffeine fix, opt for the signature kopi (from $1.90) or a refreshing lemon with sour plum ($5).

Time Out tip Great Nanyang serves the super gao hor ka sai (Milo and coffee mixed, from $3) in a huge glass, so share it with someone if you don’t want to be on a caffeine and sugar high all day.

What it is Located at The Mill, this grungy industrial-chic café offers a solid selection of espresso-based beverages that are sure to satisfy your caffeine cravings.

Why we love it While Alchemist’s menu may not be as extensive as others on this list, you can expect quality brews and bakes. Besides coffee, the iced chocolate ($6) is rich and indulgent but not overly cloying, making it the perfect dessert drink to have after lunch or dinner. As for bakes, the classic butter croissant is a favourite of ours: imagine a flaky croissant that makes the perfect crunch when you bite into it and a buttery interior that’s not oily. 

Time Out tip Alchemist has a few outlets across the island – while the one at The Mill is undoubtedly our favourite, you’re more likely to find a seat at the Funan outlet if you’re in town during the weekends.

What it is A minimalist coffee bar on Selegie Road that’s laser-focused on great specialty coffee.

Why we love it You know a café is serious about coffee when it serves it almost exclusively. Apartment Coffee on Selegie Road is one such gem, showcasing carefully curated coffee beans from Indonesia to Latin America. The café favours slow brew methods, so take your time to soak in the homey ambience as you wait for your cuppa. The wait is worth it – the coffees always come with lovingly expressed notes. 

Time Out tip Sign up for Apartment Coffee’s monthly coffee subscription to get freshly roasted whole bean coffees delivered right to your doorstep. To get the most out of it, go for one of the studio’s workshops too – these teach home brewing techniques and espresso fundamentals.

What it is The Singapore outpost of a specialty coffee café from Japan. 

Why we love it Tucked away under an old HDB block, Kurasu manages to feel ‘hidden’ despite its popularity. There’s a reason why it draws such a crowd: it has a space that’s minimalistic yet artsy, friendly baristas and service crew, and of course, fragrant hand brews and espresso-based drinks. The ceremonial matcha is worth a try too. Avoid the post-lunch or afternoon tea crowd if you want to snag a seat. 

Time Out tip Bring home a bit of Kurasu with you by shopping at its retail corner (or online). You can apply for a coffee subscription or take home drip bags and cold brew bags.

What it is An Australian-inspired café with a wide array of brunch and dinner options, some with a localised twist.

Why we love it Surrey Hills Grocer only opened last year, yet it has taken Singapore by  storm. It now has four outlets scattered across the island, each with delicious brunch exclusives, but our favourite has to be the one at Woodleigh Mall. Its interior space is aesthetically pleasing, complete with lush plants and even a Mornington-inspired toy train that makes its rounds around the café on suspended rail tracks. Besides hearty Australian-inspired brunch fare, this is the only outlet where you can try menu items from The Pancake Parlour, Melbourne’s oldest pancake house. Surrey Hills at Woodleigh Mall is also pet-friendly and features a pet section aptly named Furry Hills. The pet section offers a wide selection of grooming products, accessories, and of course, treats for your furkid.

Time Out tip Have a boozy brunch at Surrey Hills by skipping the coffee and opting for one of its cocktails instead – the Surrey Hills Mai Tai uses dark and white rum from Black Tears and mixes it with lime and orange juice for a zesty kick.

What it is A hole-in-the-wall café in Far East Square known for its signature creamu lattes.

Why we love it There’s a reason why you see a huge crowd outside this little 15-seater café during lunchtime, and that’s because Hellu Coffee’s signature creamu lattes are extremely addictive. We know, the creamu lattes are considerably pricey, with its most expensive drink being the dirty creamu (matcha and espresso) that will set you back $9.50 – ouch. Yet that extra dollop of housemade sweet cream makes every cent worth it, for it mixes perfectly with the coffee and matcha, balancing out the bitterness with its creaminess. When added to hot chocolate (from $6.50), you get an indulgent dessert drink that serves as the perfect midday treat.

Time Out tip Drop by Hellu Coffee in the morning or after 2pm – the crowd will have thinned out and you’re more likely to snag a seat.

What it is A tranquil little café in Yishun that serves up homemade bakes and spreads.

Why we love it Slow Bakes gets its name from the lengthy fermentation process it uses to create its bakes, but we love how it also translates into a calm and tranquil environment despite the café being packed on most days. Expect the same Nanyang roasts from popular local coffee shops (from $1.80), as well as homemade sourdough with an indulgent coconut kaya spread ($2.80). You can also find bakes with unique flavours like matcha, pumpkin, and even a turmeric and sweet potato swirl.

Time Out tip Opt for the Big Breakfast Set ($17), which comes with two drinks, four soft-boiled eggs, and four toasts with spread to try a wide variety of Slow Bakes’ fluffy breads and delectable spreads.

What it is This café along Neil Road is lined with acoustic panels to reduce residual sound, so patrons can have a cosier dining experience.

Why we love it Cosy interior aside, Acoustics Coffee Bar stole our hearts with its signature cloud cream coffees and experimental non-coffee beverages. The cloud cream drinks use a thick but fluffy milk cream that makes every sip feel indulgent. You can get the cloud cream with an iced black ($8) or an iced white ($8), or shake things up and pair it with honey chamomile tea ($8). For a boozy coffee session, have the In-Between Cloud ($13), which has yummy cloud cream sitting on top of a black cold brew, rum, and Kahlúa.

Time Out tip Neil Road’s outlet serves up Western fare, but the outlet at Owen House serves up Asian delights like pandan tiramisu ($16) and Asian pulled pork pasta ($20).

What it is A local chocolatier that offers quality chocolate drinks and sweets alongside a DIY chocolate station at its Dempsey factory.

Why we love it If you were a fan of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory growing up, Mr Bucket’s Dempsey factory is essentially Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory (minus the Oompa Loompas and squirrels). Indulge in a wide variety of chocolates amidst the lush greenery within Dempsey, such as the EM Tiramisu ($11), made from finger biscuits soaked in Mr Bucket’s cacao-wine for a boozy chocolate flavour. This indulgent dessert is then covered with mascarpone, a coffee-infused chocolate cremeux, and topped with cacao wine chantilly cream. Don’t forget to order one of the hot chocolates – trust us, you won’t regret it.

Time Out tip If you’d like to purchase a box of Mr Bucket’s bonbons but aren’t sure which flavours you would like, opt for the bonbon tasting set (from $12). With the set, you can try three different bonbons and wash it all down with a refreshing shot of jasmine cold brew tea.

What it is A cosy café along Joo Chiat that offers unique coffee cocktails and flavoured coffees.

Why we love it If anyone tries to tell you that 9am is too early to have a cocktail, you must take them to King’s Cart Coffee Factory to try one of its coffee cocktails. You can stay in familiar territory with a classic espresso martini ($18), or go bold with the Rum Pum Pum ($22), a sweet and savoury cocktail consisting of dark rum, rosemary, gula melaka, and topped with a frothy layer of milk. Of course, if you’re not up for an alcoholic beverage so early in the day, King’s Cart also has special coffee drinks like Sng Buey ($9), where espresso and sour plum meet to create a refreshing and tangy thirst-quencher.

Time Out tip For a more relaxing café experience, head down to King’s Cart on weekdays, or expect to wait for a seat if you’re coming in on weekends.

What it is This café gets ample sunlight with its floor-to-ceiling windows, and is decorated with lush potted plants and minimalist furnishings.

Why we love it Chijmes is probably one of our favourite spots to hang out in Singapore despite its somewhat atas (high-class) atmosphere, and The Glasshouse is one of the reasons why we keep coming back. Savour specialty coffees from Brazil, Colombia, and Indonesia, and don’t worry if you’re unsure which to choose – the friendly staff are more than happy to explain each brew’s flavour profile. Of course, every cup of coffee deserves to be paired with a sweet treat, and we love the housemade sticky date pudding ($13) at The Glasshouse. It’s indulgent but not overly cloying, providing a nice contrast to the vanilla gelato that comes with the dessert.

Time Out tip Stop by in the late afternoon when the sun’s golden rays stream into the café to get the perfect shot for your Instagram feed.

What it is An industrial-chic café situated along Upper East Coast Road that serves hearty brunch options.

Why we love it Five Oars Coffee Roasters is a great spot for both early and late risers, as it opens at 8am daily, and its brunch menu runs until 5pm. Dig into fluffy waffles topped with crispy fried chicken thigh ($24), or the spicy sriracha chicken Benedict ($22). If there’s one thing you have to order when you’re at Five Oars, it’s definitely the mentaiko mac and cheese ($17) – think gooey cheese and macaroni mixed with fish roe and lots of mentaiko sauce. Salivating at the thought of it? So are we.

Time Out tip If you want to try both day and night menus in one sitting, come around 4.30pm as Five Oars makes the switch at 5.15pm.

What it is This quaint café is hidden amongst the private residential estates at Serangoon Garden, and is known for its unique bakes.

Why we love it Dining at Chu and Co’s feels like attending a friend’s casual backyard party – you’ll see everyone scattered across the outdoor patio or sitting on the pavement, mingling around as they sip on their coffees. Grab one of Chu and Co’s warm bakes on display, such as the sourdough buns (from $5) that come in a plethora of flavours like cinnamon, and cauliflower, cheese, and pepper. For heartier meals, opt for the avocado tartine ($12), which consists of smashed avocado and tomatoes on a perfectly toasted slice of sourdough. 

Time Out tip Wear lots of sunscreen and bring a hat if you’re planning on dining at Chu and Co as there are no indoor seating options.

What it is Located along North Canal Road, Punch offers a wide array of food and drinks with unique twists.

Why we love it Much like its name suggests, everything Punch serves on its menu is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. Classic favourites like carbonara ($23) and cheeseburgers are reinvented by introducing new flavours or textures into the mix. The tiger prawns and scallop aglio olio ($25) is one of our favourites: the chilli packs a good punch – we had to say it – but the introduction of toasted breadcrumbs adds a crunchiness that makes you crave more of the pasta as you eat it.

Time Out tip Come early as seats are limited at Punch, or head down during off-peak hours.

What it is Located right by Potong Pasir MRT Station, this chill café offers sandwiches during the day and sourdough pizzas at night.

Why we love it Get the best of both worlds at Folk Yard with its specially curated day and night menus, accompanied by the café’s chill ambience and even chiller staff (in the best way possible). Stop by during lunch and dig into one of the many sandwiches available, though we recommend the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich ($16), where crispy fried chicken and curry aioli are sandwiched between two perfectly toasted slices of shokupan. For dinner, you have to get the Deli Delight ($19), a fluffy but crispy sourdough pizza topped with prosciutto, blackforest ham, and baby spinach. Trust us, you won’t want to share this pizza with anyone else.

Time Out tip Have your post-meal coffee and sweet treat at Folk Yard – the coffees are brewed to perfection, and the seasonal desserts are always a hit amongst regulars.

What it is An industrial-looking café with cloud-like fixtures hanging over the entrance and coffee bar.

Why we love it Stepping into Cloud is like stepping into, well, a cloud. The café creates a dream-like atmosphere by opting for a muted palette, beige ceramic mugs, and matte metallic plates that reflect the soft yellow light. Despite its more industrial-esque aesthetic, Cloud still feels very cosy, with its patrons speaking softly amid the background hum of espresso machines whirring away. The coffees are just as nice as the interior, with a long black setting you back $5, but if you’re coming to Cloud, you’re coming for its cloud coffees. The cloud coffees use a plant-based cream, resulting in a lighter cream that doesn’t make you feel jelak (nauseated) after one sip. Enjoy the cloud cream with your standard white coffees ($9) and hot chocolate, or switch things up and have it with the new lychee berry kocha ($9) for a creamy but refreshing drink.

Time Out tip Bring friends – you’re going to want someone to take your picture at this aesthetically pleasing joint.

What it is A French creperie located in Raffles Hotel with a minimalist interior.

Why we love it While pancakes and waffles get all the love in dessert shops and cafés in Singapore, there is a shortage of places that specialise in crepes. That’s where Gather comes in: the café offers a wide variety of savoury galettes and sweet crepes alongside hearty breakfast and lunch options. Our favourite amongst the galettes is the ratatouille ($18), which consists of stewed tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant, all so perfectly cooked that even picky eaters won’t be able to resist. For crepes, you must try the fig and camembert ($18), made with tart fig jam and tangy camembert that complement the sweet honey perfectly.

Time Out tip Bring friends – that way you can try every single one of Gather’s yummy galettes and crepes.

What it is This Korean-inspired bakery and café is situated in Chijmes, and offers fresh bakes and brunch fare.

Why we love it There’s so much about Dough that we love, but if we could only choose one thing, it would be its yummy mochi pastries. The azuki mochi danish ($5.50) is our favourite, as the combination of the crispy and flaky puff pastry complements the chewiness of the mochi. All of these textures are tied together by the azuki paste, which issweet but not overpowering. Pair the azuki mochi danish with a cup of coffee and you’ll find yourself with the perfect post-meal sweet treat.

Time Out tip Come early to snag a seat as there are limited tables available. Alternatively, you can always get your pastries and coffee to go.

What it is Café by day, bar by night, Naga House is a multi-concept space where music, fashion, and food intersect.

Why we love it Besides scrumptious food and coffee, Naga House’s brutalist interior makes it the perfect place to stop and have a drink before getting on with your day – especially when the blue lights are on. Food-wise, expect a variety of dishes with an East-meets-West concept, like fish burgers made with lemak mayo, sweet potato leaves and sambal belado ($14), and steak and mash with pho cream sauce ($35). For drinks, expect the usual café fare like long blacks (from $5.50) and matcha lattes ($7.50) that are rich and flavourful.

Time Out tip Make a reservation if you’re coming in on weekend evenings – Naga House is also a popular spot for those looking to pregame before heading to the club.

What it is One of the sibling cafés to Assembly Ground, Atlas Coffeehouse has an industrial-chic aesthetic and offers a comprehensive drip coffee menu.

Why we love it Just a stone’s throw away from Botanic Gardens MRT, Atlas Coffeehouse has become one of our favourite cafés to stop by whenever we’re in the area. We particularly love the filter coffee offered here, with options from Ethiopia, Nicaragua, and China. The filter coffee from Ou Yang farm in Yunnan is a must-try – the coffee is light with a tinge of sweetness, and you can clearly taste the notes of hibiscus, mulberry tea, and white grape.

Time Out tip If you have a sweet tooth, the babka chocolate french toast ($22.20) is a must-order – especially if it’s your first time at Atlas Coffeehouse. Think a rich, chocolate babka made into a french toast, and complete with chopped hazelnuts, almond butter, bananas, and fresh cream. Sounds good? That’s why you have to get it.

What it is This 1920s art deco-inspired café serves brunch classics in gorgeous ceramics, and also has a barista academy where you can learn how to brew the perfect coffee.

Why we love it Common Man Coffee Roasters has been one of our favourites since it first opened in 2013, and it’s been amazing to see it expand to other Southeast Asian countries over the past few years. It’s no surprise that Common Man has been doing so well – after all, its hearty brunch fare and delicious coffees are the reasons why we keep coming back. We love the Common Man Full Breakfast ($30), which consists of two eggs, crispy bacon, tender herbed roma tomato, and perfectly toasted sourdough or wholemeal bread. While on the pricier side, the full breakfast is so hearty and huge that it will last you throughout the day – so if it covers you for breakfast and lunch, that’s technically $15 per meal.

Time Out tip If you’re looking to get a quick cup of coffee to jumpstart your day, head to the ION Orchard On The Go outlet for shorter wait times.

What it is A hidden café located at the void deck of a HDB in Bukit Merah with a minimalist but vibrant interior, with accent furnishings and colourful stickers on the seats and espresso machines.

Why we love it Rookie’s keeps it simple with less than 10 drinks on its menu (excluding the various filter coffee options), allowing the baristas to brew each cup to perfection. Savour different types of coffee, ranging from fruity to earthy flavour profiles. These  pair well with bakes like a gooey chocolate chip cookie ($4) or a zesty lemon bar ($5.50). We particularly enjoyed the Iced Jelly White ($7.50) – it’s much like drinking bubble tea, only that the tea is an ice white, and the brown sugar pearls are coffee jelly chunks.

Time Out tip Pack a mini fan as Rookie’s fills up quickly, meaning you’ll probably have to sit outside. Or just get your coffee to-go and enjoy it in the comfort of your home – the coffee’s just as good.

What it is Located along Tessensohn Road, Hey Slow Joe offers delicious brews and unique non-caffeinated beverages.

Why we love it A few cafés on this list stand out for the amazing hospitality displayed by the staff and owners, and Hey Slow Joe falls into that category. Owners Huda, Shannon, and Shu have placed a lot of thought into how they can engage customers, starting with their menu. You can find beverages like Magic Joe ($8.50), Shu’s Brew ($6), and Magic ($5.50) on the menu, all without any descriptors as they are meant to be conversation starters with any of the staff. So if you want to know what these are, you simply have to head down and find out for yourself.

Time Out tip Besides coffee, you have to order one of Hey Slow Joe’s homemade rolls – they’re airy, light, and gluten-free, so eat as many as you want!

What it is A hidden café tucked away behind the Salvation Army in Tanglin, with an impressive selection of curated tea blends.

Why we love it There’s something so comforting about sipping away at a cup of tea while being surrounded by lush greenery. Coffee Tea Library offers a wide variety of teas for you to try, ranging from Vietnam’s soothing lotus oasis tea, to one of China’s most famous teas, the Biluochun Spring Fragrance. Enjoy a pot of tea from $9.90, which allows one refill, while munching on yummy snacks like cashew nuts and yuzu osmanthus cakes. Don’t forget to greet the café’s dogs while you’re there!

Time Out tip Get the most bang for your buck by opting for a tea tasting session ($35), which comes with three different types of tea and a slice of cake.

What it is: A small coffee shop in Alexandra with a minimalistic interior inspired by Japanese Zen aesthetic.

Why we love it We know cafés that serve up specialty coffees can be intimidating, especially when they offer many different types of coffee beans and brewing methods. But at  Kyuukei Coffee,  owner Jonathan Teo has fostered a warm and welcoming environment – don’t be surprised to find him chatting with regulars or sharing about the world of coffee with newcomers. Casual coffee drinkers can learn more about coffee and its various flavour profiles from the staff, or simply kick back and relax while watching the world go by.

Time Out tip Check out one of Kyuukei Coffee’s omakase sessions ($40). This is where you can  learn more about coffee by tasting how different desserts bring out various flavour profiles. For a cheaper option, simply ask the staff for a recommendation and they will be more than happy to pair your drink with one of their yummy bakes.

What it is A charming pastel café located in the heart of Somerset, featuring seasonal bakes and drinks.

Why we love it This cosy café is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of shopping around town. Rise Bakehouse’s Somerset outlet features huge floor-to-ceiling windows, pastel pink walls, and dried flower displays. The cute aesthetic also extends to its menu, with cakes and drinks boasting a pastel colour palette that’s perfect for any foodie’s Instagram page. Besides pretty interiors and pastries, its diverse range of cakes ($8.20 a slice) are pretty darn good as well, with flavours like matcha strawberry, orh nee, and pistachio honeycomb.

Time Out tip If you’re looking to save a bit of money while enjoying a sweet treat, opt for one of the teacakes available – they come in a multitude of flavours, and their slightly larger size makes them perfect for sharing.

What it is Best known for its cereal milk latte ($7.50), this small café  located along Ann Siang Hill is the perfect stop for  a quick coffee break.

Why we love it The cereal milk latte is a popular choice amongst patrons, and for good reason – who doesn’t love the taste of leftover milk after eating a bowl of cereal? There’s no need for any additional sugar here, as the slightly sweet and starchy cereal milk gives a rich and indulgent drinking experience on its own. The cereal milk latte can be filling, but don’t let that stop you from savouring one of Maxi Coffee Bar’s delicious bites like sourdough grilled cheeses (from $14) and heaps of miso peanut butter and jam spread on soft milk buns ($5.50).

Time Out tip Don’t share the madeleines ($12 for five) – these madeleines are so good that you’ll want all five pieces for yourself.

What it is This quaint and cosy café in Everton Park is best known for its well-crafted coffees and wide array of cakes.

Why we love it Solo café-hoppers won’t feel intimidated at The Better Half – owners Jon and Hwee Ying are always more than happy to strike up conversations with their diners, making the café feel warm and welcoming. Friendly owners aside, the cakes at The Better Half are no joke either, featuring over 20 cake flavours and even decadent loaf cakes on rotation. We’ve tried the gula melaka avocado and the vanilla strawberry hojicha, the latter of which has  fluffy vanilla sponge  topped with a fresh strawberry filling and a rich hojicha buttercream. With so many flavours, it’s hard to find an excuse not to go back to The Better Half whenever we’re craving cake.

Time Out tip Come down on weekday afternoons to avoid the crowds as there are limited seats available.

What it is This brunch café situated along Neil Road is best known for its French toasts and sundaes.

Why we love it Dining at Populus is like hanging out at your friend’s house – the welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and scrumptious food comes together to create a delightful dining experience. While most would recommend Populus’ French toasts and sundaes (not that they aren’t the best), one of the more underrated brunch items has to be the spring pancake and fried chicken ($25). The crispy pancake is filled with a generous amount of spring onions and corn, and is paired with the slightly spicy and extremely tender chicken thigh fillet. It’s a lot of calories in one meal, but you won’t regret drenching the pancake and fried chicken in Populus’ housemade ranch dressing – the smooth and creamy sauce brings all of the flavours together, making each bite feel like heaven.

Time Out tip Come hungry as the dishes at Populus are quite filling. If you’re planning on trying what else the café has to offer (which you’ll want to), it’s best to do it on an empty stomach.

What it is Situated along Crawford Lane, this Melbourne-inspired café serves up all-day brunch and delicious brews.

Why we love it Tolido’s Espresso Nook is what we call reliable – you can always count on it for a hearty meal at any time of the day. The pandan pancakes ($15) are a crowd favourite, and for good reason: the fragrant pancakes are topped with a rich gula melaka sauce and a scoop of ice cream. This was a limited menu item created in celebration of Singapore’s 50th birthday nine years ago, but the overwhelming response to this delectable dessert earned it a permanent spot on the menu. Other highlights include the stout-glazed bacon French toast ($20), where fluffy brioche bread meets Guinness stout-glazed bacon with maple syrup.

Time Out tip If you’re craving one of Starbucks’ pumpkin spice lattes when it’s out of season, Tolido’s serves up a version that is—dare we say—even better than Starbucks.

What it is A small Japanese bakery that serves fluffy buns and heartier dine-in  meals like beef stew and sandwiches.

Why we love it There’s always a crowd outside of Kamome Bakery before it opens, and we’ve also found ourselves joining the queue early in the morning just to snag a few of the bakery’s delicious breads. Despite its crowdedness, Kamome Bakery remains a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and a hearty brunch. Dig into Kamome’s French toast ($10.90), made using a thick slice of shokupan coated in a rich egg sauce and topped with maple syrup and whipped cream. For a more savoury option, the avocado wasabi burger ($16.80) is a must-try: imagine biting into a burger filled with a juicy patty, fresh avocado slices, and a tangy wasabi soy sauce that ties all the flavours together. Hungry? So are we.

Time Out tip Go early, regardless of whether you’re dining in or getting takeaway – Kamome Bakery is notorious for selling out by noon every day.

What it is Innovation takes a whole new meaning at La Levain, a bakery-café that specialises in unique bakes and flavours.

Why we love it Prepare to be greeted with the scent of freshly baked bread and sweets the moment you step into La Levain. Look a little closer and you’ll find numerous French classics and reinvented localised bakes that have gained immense popularity, such as the ever-popular onigiri croissants (from $7.20) that come in flavours like Lao Gan Man, taro orh nee, and mentaiko cheese, as well as the weekend-exclusive doughnut croissants that are light and sweet. Pair your bakes with a cup of coffee (from $4.10), and you'll be good to go.

Time Out tip La Levain’s more popular bakes like the onigiri croissant and smashed croissants sell out fast, so place an order online to avoid disappointment.

What it is The ultimate marriage of music and grub, this café is tucked away in Swee Lee’s new experience store at Clarke Quay. 

Why we love it There are few places in Singapore where you can listen to vinyl while enjoying a cup of joe. Swee Lee Clarke Quay is one such place. Choose from over 500 vinyls and settle down at its listening stations, and order a coffee to complete your lazy afternoon. Swee Lee’s café also has a selection of brunch items, waffles, and cocktails created by Employees Only. 

Time Out tip Sign up for a Swee Lee membership. That gives you free one-hour access to the vinyl listening stations with any purchase at Swee Lee, be it retail products or food and drinks.

What it is A micro-roastery that switches up its house blends every month to provide new coffee tasting experiences with each visit.

Why we love it Not to digress, but we absolutely adore the pocket-sized menu available at Pocket, all held together by a pin similar to those Brain Quest cards that were all the rage at Popular in the 2000s. Cute menu aside, Pocket’s coffee is nothing to scoff at. Each cup is hand lovingly made by baristas who have a deep passion and love for coffee. Fret not even if you don’t know much about the topic, as they are more than happy to share their passion with you. Choose from their seasonal filter brews (from $7) menu that changes every month, and taste different coffees from Bolivia, Ecuador, and Honduras. If you’re not much of a coffee person, Pocket also offers refreshing cold brew teas ($7.50) and hot chocolate ($8).

Time Out tip If you love the coffee you had at Pocket, you can purchase the beans and brew yourself a cup at home. The friendly baristas will gladly assist you if you have any questions.

What it is A café and roastery in a beautiful Art Deco shophouse, where patrons can enjoy a cup of coffee, or learn more about the art of brewing the perfect cup.

Why we love it We don’t know many people who don’t like Chye Seng Huat Hardware – the café-roastery is home to some of the most delicious brews we’ve ever had, and its staff are passionate about the coffee they brew. Besides sipping on a cup of joe, you can also browse through a wide variety of coffee products, accessories, and equipment. Head up to the second floor to explore various coffee gadgets, apparatus, and machines, and learn about coffee beyond the bean.

Time Out tip Head to Chye Seng Huat on an empty stomach. The café offers mains like chilli crab with mantou ($26) and samsui chicken soba ($24) that are so delicious that you’ll want to try them all.

What it is A minimalist coffee spot that offers Korean-inspired bakes.

Why we love it We might be a bit biased as Snap Café is near our Amoy Street office, but we head to this coffee joint for its delicious brews pretty often. You can find typical coffees at Snap, but we recommend the pistachio espresso latte ($8) – the nuttiness complements the coffee, resulting in a richer flavour profile. If you’re feeling a bit peckish, Snap offers Korean-inspired bakes that are made in-house, such as matcha injeolmi caneles ($4), black sesame cheesecakes ($6), and honeycomb granola ($8).

Time Out tip Snap Café has limited seats, so come early to avoid disappointment, or get your coffee to-go.

What it is Located at Robertson Quay, this industrial-chic café overlooks the Singapore River and serves a wide variety of hearty mains.

Why we love it From all day breakfasts like french toast ($16.50) and surf and turf ($21.50), to lunch mains like roast beef sandwiches ($17.50) and burgers (from $23.50), no two dining experiences at Toby’s Estate are the same. We enjoyed the colourful rainbow fries ($14), which consists of crispy thick cut sweet red, blue, and maris piper potatoes, accompanied by one of three sauces: aioli, garlic mustard, or chipotle. For mains, we recommend the breakfast tacos ($16) – you’ll get three soft-shelled tacos with scrambled eggs, beans, bacon, and salsa for a spicy kick. 

Time Out tip Share with friends if you’re a small eater – Toby’s Estate serves hearty portions that will fill you up in no time.

What it is This minimalist café boasts an all-white interior and is popular amongst those looking to have a productive work session.

Why we love it We love working in cafés during our work-from-home days, and Syip is the perfect place to do so. The café is equipped with power sockets and complimentary Wi-Fi, and has brightly lit areas to help you stay focused for long hours. The coffee and food at Syip are pretty darn good as well. You can get a set meal for just $25, and choose from a wide array of scrumptious mains like Wagyu beef rice bowls (usually $24.20), and mentaiko shrimp burgers (usually $22). The set also includes a drink, so pair your meal with Syip’s signature hojicha goma (usually $8.25) for the perfect balance of earthiness and sweetness to keep you going throughout the day.

Time Out tip For a midday treat, opt for the raspberry pistachio french toast ($16.50): the fluffy brioche bread is topped with crunchy pistachios and sweet raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries.

What it is A spacious café along Tanjong Katong Road with a retail section dedicated to housewares.

Why we love it Little Rogue Coffee does it all: during weekdays, the café is a perfect spot to get some work done with free Wi-fi, a few charging stations, and even a large communal table. Over the weekend, it becomes a family-friendly brunch spot, where you’ll see both kids and furkids chilling in the café. For drinks, we love the Dalmatian ($8) – a cold brew black coffee topped with cream foam and crushed oreos. If you’re hungry, the maple thyme hotcakes ($18) are a must-order: think fluffy and mildly sweet hotcakes smothered in strawberry compote, berries, and nut crumble for that extra crunch. The best part? It comes with a scoop of earl grey lavender ice cream drizzled with a miso caramel for ultimate indulgence.

Time Out tip Don’t worry about finding parking for your bicycle if you wish to bike to Little Rogue Coffee as the café has indoor bicycle parking.

What it is Opened by the people behind the Japanese-influenced eatery The Refinery, Hello Arigato is best known for its sandwiches and unique takes on pasta dishes.

Why we love it It’s impossible to talk about Hello Arigato without mentioning its signature sandos. Each sandwich is made with thick, fluffy slices of shokupan, Kewpie mayonnaise, and yummy fillings. Our favourite has to be the gyu sando ($28), where the crispy but succulent beef tenderloin katsu is sandwiched between caramelised onion jam and soft bread. The tamago sando ($14) is also a classic, complete with chunks of egg mayo filling, tamagoyaki, and ajitama egg. Besides sandos, it’s also worth trying its Japanese-Singaporean fusion pastas, such as the laksa pasta ($22) and tom yum somen ($22).

Time Out tip If you’re looking for a post-work drinking spot or simply indulging in day drinking, consider Hello Arigato – the café offers a modest selection of sake and wines, including a tasting flight where you can try three different types of sake for just $18.

What it is This friendly neighbourhood café takes on a more homely vibe, complete with Scandinavian-inspired interiors.

Why we love it There’s so much to love about Lola’s Café – from its cosy atmosphere to its extensive menu, Lola’s has become one of our go-to cafés for brunch over the weekends. The tsukune sando ($17) is a must-order, with chicken tsukune, furikake aioli, and tamagoyaki all tied together by gooey cheddar cheese and sandwiched between perfectly toasted brioche buns. If you’re heading to Lola’s for your midday dessert, you have to get the strawberry pistachio tart ($9.50). This decadent dessert consists of vanilla chantilly cream, strawberries, and a pure pistachio ganache so nutty and creamy that you’ll be asking for seconds once you’re done.

Time Out tip Gather your friends and family – you’ll want to try everything on Lola’s menu.

What it is A hidden rooftop café-terrace located at Holland Road Shopping Centre.

Why we love it Frankie & Fern’s is one of the newer kids on the block, but this hidden café has captured our hearts with its simple and homely atmosphere. Take in the Scandinavian-inspired interiors and large windows that invite ample sunlight into the space (in the best way). When visiting Frankie & Fern’s, you have to try the homemade sparkling raspberry lychee ($8). The tangy but sweet soda makes for the best refresher to quench your thirst on a swelteringly hot day.

Time Out tip If you’re visiting Frankie & Fern’s on the weekend, make a reservation to avoid the snaking long queues.