What Makes a Best Coffee in Singapore?

Written By Creative Eateries

Singapore takes its coffee seriously. From third-wave cafés to humble kopitiams, the city’s brews span every style, mood, and moment of the day. But what defines the best coffee out here? It isn’t only about beans or roasting methods. It’s the way a velvety flat white hits the sweet spot between rich and smooth, or how a pour-over highlights subtle notes you didn’t expect.

Add in creative baristas and the café vibes Singapore nails so well! Note that you’ve got more than a drink you’ve got an experience. If you’re hunting the best coffee places, here’s where to start sipping.

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes great coffee in Singapore and show you where to find your next unforgettable caffeine fix.

The Best Coffee and Cafe Places Out Here: Where Singapore Brews Set the Bar

Remember when coffee was just... coffee? You'd go to a coffee shop, order a cup, and that was that. But in Singapore, the game has changed completely. We've moved far beyond the days of a simple kopitiam brew. Now, the coffee scene is a playground of flavour and craftsmanship, a world of specialty coffee that's as intricate and exciting as a well-made cocktail. It's a journey into a universe where every bean has a backstory, and every cup is a work of art.

What Defines the Best Coffee? 

So, what makes a coffee "the best" in this new era? It's not about the fancy name; it's about the pure, undeniable quality. It's about a barista who treats each shot like a masterpiece, and a cafe that obsesses over every little detail, from source to brew.

Here’s a breakdown of the A-listers on every cafe menu and why we can't get enough of them, making them a favourite coffee for many.

Espresso

This is the OG, the foundation, the little black dress of the coffee world. A perfectly pulled shot of espresso is a punchy, full-bodied blast of pure flavour. It's the ultimate test of a coffee shop's mettle. You get a rich, dark brew with a delicate layer of crema on top. A sign of a job well done. It’s for the purist who wants to taste the raw, unadulterated soul of the coffee bean.

Latte

If espresso is the cool, intense friend, the latte is the warm, comforting hug you need. It's a smooth, creamy blend of a shot of espresso and silky steamed milk. The best ones are a beautiful marriage of robust coffee flavour and mellow sweetness, a simple pleasure that feels like a cozy blanket on a rainy day.

Cappuccino

Think of the cappuccino as the elegant, layered version of the latte. It's a showstopper built on a foundation of espresso, with a generous layer of steamed milk and a thick, luxurious crown of milk foam. It’s a dance of textures the bold coffee, the smooth milk, and the airy foam. That makes every sip a perfectly balanced experience.

Americano

This one is for the no-nonsense coffee lover. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, less is more. An Americano is simply a shot of espresso diluted with hot water. This gives you all the rich flavour of the espresso without the heavy concentration. It's clean, strong, and straightforward—a direct connection to the coffee's core flavour.

Single Origin

Are you the type who loves a good travel story? Then single origin is your jam. Unlike a standard house blend that mixes beans from different places, a single origin brew comes from a specific farm or region. It's like a wine tasting for coffee. You get to explore unique flavour notes that are a direct result of the specific soil, climate, and altitude. One sip could take you from the floral fields of Ethiopia to the earthy jungles of Sumatra.

Flat White

This is the cool kid on the block, a favorite that’s all about smooth sophistication. The flat white is a stronger, more intense version of an espresso-based drink. It’s made with a double shot of espresso and a layer of microfoam, a velvety steamed milk that lacks the puffiness of a cappuccino's foam. The result is a richer, more robust flavour with a silky mouthfeel that will have you coming back for more.

Many of Singapore's best coffee bar spots, especially those located in a quiet neighbourhood, are also perfect for a full brunch experience. Offering delightful treats like a freshly baked pastry, waffles or even a local kaya toast. Some cafes, particularly a flagship or those with a dedicated roastery, have a minimalist aesthetic, letting the quality of our brews and our signature creations take centre stage. Don't forget to ask about the selection of tea as well!

How to Spot the Best Cafe in Singapore with Great Brews?

You've got the coffee types down, but how do you find the place that serves them perfectly? Singapore's cafe scene is booming, with new spots popping up all the time. But a great cafe is more than just a place with a fancy menu. It's a whole vibe, a place that makes you feel a certain way. So, if you're on a quest to find your new favorite brew haven, here's how to spot the best cafe in Singapore

It's All in the Details: The Telltale Signs of a Great Cafe

The best cafes don't just sell coffee; they curate an entire experience. Here’s what to look for:

  1. The Vibe is Everything: A top-tier cafe has an ambience that matches the quality of its coffee. Whether it's a minimalist, no-frills space that puts the focus entirely on the brew. Or go to a cozy casual nook that feels like an extension of your living room, the atmosphere is carefully crafted. Many of Singapore's best cafes also offer outdoor seating, perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

  2. The Menu Goes Beyond Coffee: While the coffee is centre stage, the best cafes know how to complement our brews. They offer more than just a quick cup they're a complete destination. You'll find a curated menu of delicious treats, from expertly baked pastry and all-day brunch options to a selection of fine tea. Some even have a signature local twist, like a perfectly toasted sourdough toast.

  3. Beyond the Brew: A great cafe is a communal space. It's a place to work, to meet friends, or to simply enjoy some solitude. The best ones foster a sense of community, a haven where everyone feels welcome. You can find places that offer workshops, art exhibitions, or even live music, making them a true hub for culture and connection.

So, the next time you're on a hunt for a good cup of coffee, look past the shiny facade and pay attention to these details. They'll lead you to a place that not only serves great brews but also offers an unforgettable dining experience.

A Place for the Best Brews: The Coffee Experience at Tanglin Cookhouse

When you're searching for that perfect cafe escape in Singapore, two names consistently come up as contenders for the best specialty coffee in Singapore: Tanglin Cookhouse at Tanglin Mall and its counterpart at Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ). These aren't just cafes; they are tranquil havens that have made the mark on the specialty coffee scene. They stand out as two of the best coffee shops in Singapore you must visit.

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The Tanglin Cookhouse Vibe: Calmness and Casual Charm

Both Tanglin Cookhouse locations are celebrated for our inviting, casual ambiance. There's a certain calmness that envelops you the moment you step inside, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed morning ritual. The PLQ outlet, in particular, is a gem with its lovely outdoor seating area, where you can soak in the natural light and enjoy the fresh air. This peaceful setting is the perfect backdrop for sipping on coffee or deciding to crack open a book. This is the essence of a great coffee culture.

The Brews: A World of Flavor in Every Cup

Tanglin Cookhouse takes its coffee seriously, offering a wide array of coffee options to suit every preference. Our menu is a testament to the fact that they cater to all kinds of palates, from the purist to the adventurer.

  1. Espresso and Black Coffees: For those who appreciate the classics, you can't go wrong with the rich and robust Espresso, a straightforward Black, or the classic Long Black and Americano.

  2. Specialty and Creamy Lattes: If you prefer a smoother, creamier coffee, the Creamy Latte is a popular choice. For something with a local twist, the Iced Gula Melaka Coffee is a sweet and satisfying treat a nod to local coffee. And for a unique, tropical take on a classic, the Coconut Cappuccino And Coconut Americano are must-tries. Other favorites include the classic Cappuccino, Latte, Flat White, and Macchiato. For an extra touch of sweetness, the housemade sweet cream is a delightful addition. The new coffee selection here is always a pleasant surprise. The café is located in a spot that makes it a perfect meeting place.

Treats that are as Good as They Look

Pair your brew with our fantastic food menu. The freshly baked croissant is just as good as they look, and a perfect match for any coffee. For a sweeter treat, the sticky date pudding is a must-try. You can find a range of sweet and savoury options to complete your experience.

The Tea Collection: A Refillable Journey

Beyond coffee, Tanglin Cookhouse offers an exceptional tea experience. All of our teas are Refillable, encouraging you to sit back and truly savor the moment.

  1. Black Teas: Enjoy timeless classics like the Supreme Earl Grey with its aromatic bergamot, or the rich Grand Cru Breakfast for a satisfying start. For a tropical escape, the Summer Mango black tea is a delightful, fruity option.

  2. Green Teas: The Jasmine Green is a fragrant and rare blend, while the Secrets Of Singapore offers a restorative mix of goji berries and exotic fruits. The Organic Moroccan Mint provides a cooling and refreshing cup.

  3. Wellness and Herbal (Caffeine-Free): For a calming experience, the Chamomile Dream helps to relieve anxiety, the Strawberry Cream is a perfect pairing for desserts, and the Organic Yoga Chai delivers a comforting blend of cinnamon and ginger.

With its perfect blend of serene ambiance and high-quality brews, Tanglin Cookhouse stands out as a top contender for the best cafe in Singapore, a place where every visit feels like a well-deserved break.

The Perfect Coffee & Pastry Match

There's a reason why a great cup of coffee and a fresh pastry feel like the perfect start to a morning or a much-needed afternoon break. It's a simple pleasure that's all about balance and flavor harmony. 

Coffee & Danish Pastries

Danish pastries are flaky and buttery, so they need a coffee that can handle their richness.

For Butter Croissant or Pain au Chocolat:

  1. Black Coffee (Long Black, Americano): The strong, bold flavor cuts through the butter for a nice contrast.

  2. Latte or Creamy Latte: The milk softens the coffee and complements the flaky texture.

For Pandan Kaya Croissant:

  1. Coconut Cappuccino or Coconut Americano: The coconut flavor in the coffee will match the tropical notes of the pandan, making a perfect duo.

Coffee & Other Treats

For Molten Lava Chocolate Muffin:

  1. Espresso or Mocha: The intense flavor of these coffees can stand up to the rich, gooey chocolate without being overwhelmed.

For Cheesecake (Blueberry, Mango):

  1. Black Coffee: A simple black coffee lets the bright, creamy flavors of the cheesecake shine.

  2. Flat White: This offers a smooth, creamy texture that pairs well with the cake's creaminess.

For "Kopi C" Coffee Cake or Ondeh-Ondeh:

  1. Black Coffee: A plain coffee is best to let the complex, traditional flavors of these local desserts take center stage.

Tea Pairings

If you're in the mood for tea, you've got great options, too.

For Savory Breads (Sourdough, Baguette):

  1. Supreme Earl Grey or Grand Cru Breakfast: These strong black teas cut through the richness of the bread and butter.

For Sweet Cakes:

  1. Strawberry Cream or Chamomile Dream: These herbal teas are a gentle, caffeine-free choice that won't overpower the delicate flavor of a sweet dessert.

Ready to find your perfect cup? 

Tanglin Cookhouse is a must-visit. With its serene ambiance and a menu of exceptional coffee, tea, and food, it’s the ideal place to experience what truly defines great coffee. Visit them at Tanglin Mall or Paya Lebar Quarter and start your brew journey today.

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