The best lifestyle cafes in Singapore for music and art lovers

With a mission of redefining dining experiences, Sprmrkt is a culinary-cultural concept that merges food, retail and art into a single, yet multi-faceted, experience. Visit their outlet at Cluny Court, nestled within the picturesque neighbourhood of Bukit Timah, for an afternoon of good food, produce shopping, and cultural immersion. Try its delectable Blackened Fish & Chips ($30) for a one-way ticket to Flavour Town. Admire works of art hung up all around the cafe, created both locally and internationally. See something you like? Maybe it's a sign for you to start your very own art collection.

From the creative brains behind the now-closed Kult Kafe comes a cool sanctuary for musicians, design studios, and makers atop Pearl’s Hill – in a former police headquarters, no less. The colourful multi-purpose space champions art and music while dishing out a rotating selection of craft beers, ciders, and even grilled meats like satay. Complete the al fresco dining experience with its signature Kultails including Kult Julep, a refreshing mix of rum, kaffir lime leaf and gula Melaka. In the past, the space has rolled out animation screenings, live music performances, poetry showcases, and open mics.

There’s nothing better than a bowl of shaved ice to help you cool off in the heat. Have one of Art Ice’s shaved ice while admiring the gorgeous artworks lining the walls. Opt for the coffee ($17) or pistachio ($22) flavours if you prefer something a bit creamier, but we highly recommend the dragon and passionfruit ($17). The perfect combination of sweet and sourness serves as the ultimate refreshing treat when strolling around our sunny island, and the light and easy-to-eat dessert will leave you wanting for more.

Art jamming and desserts, anyone? Café de Paris is the go-to destination for those seeking to indulge in an afternoon tea or art jamming session to unwind and tap into their creative side. Friends and families can come together to channel their inner Picasso to create their own masterpieces while sipping on a complimentary drink during a free-and-easy 3-hour session. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to try out their specialty dessert – the Korean bonbons. So, whether you're a sweet tooth or a creative soul looking to do some damage, this café is the perfect spot to satisfy all sorts of cravings.

The Social Space is not your average café, tripling up as a multi-concept space that serves as a sustainable retail area, a nail salon, and a hub for conscious living. Their goal is to inspire and make conscientious living more accessible to the public. The space invites anyone to come together and engage in dialogues about social issues, make new friends, and find a community. 

Hidden in the far east of town, this under-the-radar artisanal coffee shop puts a unique twist to modern cafes. Blending both art and coffee, the art gallery part of the shop has paintings made from coffee – blending in with its otherwise crisp and clean interior. There aren't a lot of options on the menu, just a couple of types of beans done in your preferred style as well seasonal cakes and bakes but that doesn't mean you shouldn't add this place to your café-hopping list.

If the cakes at Flor Patisserie aren’t enough to give you a sugar rush, perhaps the kaleidoscopic artworks will. The Duxton Hill cafe is known for its Japanese-French pastries, which are made with premium seasonal ingredients such as white strawberries and Japanese summer peaches. But it also houses a rotating exhibition and retail space featuring local artists, as well as arts and crafts workshops led by local artisans.

While Orchard Road pulses with life, find tranquillity at Arteastiq, a boutique tea house that offers respite from the hustle and bustle below. The name reflects how the concept combines both a premium tea lounge with an art jam studio, encouraging people to gather for a therapeutic experience. After spending the day painting, refuel with your pick from the food menu. You can find classic favourites like squid ink spaghetti ($23) or Asian delights like sambal barramundi and dry laksa ($29).