20 aesthetic cafés in Singapore for food, coffee & vibes

There’s no doubt that Singapore is a nation of cafe enthusiasts. Whenever a new cafe opens its doors, it’s almost a given that you will find curious Singaporeans queuing up to try its offerings for themselves. Of course, whether a cafe continues to draw the crowds long after its opening depends on multiple factors: the food and drinks; the interiors, and the overall vibe. Keep reading to find out more about some of the coolest cafes in Singapore that are worthy of a square on your Instagram feed.

1. June Coffee

Enter June Coffee and you’ll be greeted by its raw yet refined interiors. The intentionally “undone” and exposed walls are juxtaposed with a groomed nature-inspired centrepiece and cloud-shaped coffee table. This cafe has an aesthetic that will bring to mind one of those hip and rugged-looking cafes that you’ll find—and can’t stop taking photos of—in Seoul. 

June Coffee is located at 49 East Coast Road, Singapore 428768. Visit its Instagram for more information.

2. Frankie and Fern’s

Finding this cafe might be a small challenge for those who aren’t familiar with Holland Road Shopping Centre. Take the lift that’s hidden at one side of the building to level four, and you’ll find Frankie & Fern’s. This beautifully decorated space exudes a welcoming vibe that’ll make you feel like you’re at your friend’s house. Besides indoor seating, there are also outdoor tables that offer a lovely view of Holland Village. 

Frankie & Fern’s is located at #04-03, Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278967. Visit its website for more information.

3. Cafe Margaret

Hailing from South Korea, Cafe Margaret opened its doors at Bali Lane in June 2023. The two-storey space is made up of pastries laid out neatly in buffet style on tables at level one, allowing you to handpick your favourite breads and cookies. And since they’re displayed near the entrance, passers-by will find it hard to resist the colourful bakes at Cafe Margaret. The seating area is located at level two, which gives off a cosy, cottagecore vibe. 

Cafe Margaret is located at 32 Bali Lane, Singapore 189868. Visit its Instagram for more information. 

4. Suzuki Coffee

If one of the things that you love about Japan is its zen-like cafes, here’s an alternative in Singapore that doesn’t require you to make travel plans. Located in a far-flung industrial area in the West, Suzuki Specialty Coffee is loved for its minimalist and calming atmosphere. Spend some me-time here and savour your coffee or matcha while being surrounded by wooden fixtures and a Japanese water fountain. 

Suzuki Specialty Coffee is located at 8 Chin Bee Ave, Singapore 619932, Tel: 98718315. Visit its website for more information. 

5. 174 Bingo

A rustic cafe hidden in Joo Chiat, visitors to 174 Bingo will be greeted by wooden industrial-style decor and a selection of fresh daily bakes. With its pet-friendly outdoor porch and homely furnishing, 174 Bingo is a cosy spot ideal for gatherings.

174 Bingo is located at #01-01, 174 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427445. Visit its Instagram for more information.

6. Under Der Linden

This floral-themed cafe is big on… yes, you’ve guessed it, flowers. Even before stepping into the cafe, a garden-like stairway lined with floral arches welcomes and mesmerises you with gorgeous blooms. Don’t be surprised if you see couples and brides-to-be having a mini photoshoot at this charming Instagram hotspot. 

Under Der Linden is located at #01-02, 5B Portsdown Road, Singapore 139311. Visit its Instagram for more information.

7. Uptown

While most cafes are usually decked out in similar furniture, Uptown opts for a more special approach. The mismatched tables and sofas make the entire space feel a lot more relaxed and cosy, just like a friend’s house rather than a standard cafe. There’s also a small retail selection filled with apparels, shoes and accessories for diners to shop. 

Uptown is located at 55 Zion Road, Singapore 247780. Visit its Instagram for more information. 

8. Nico Cafe

Nico Cafe is proof that you don’t have to step into the wild just to experience what dining in a lush garden feels like. Located at Wheelock Place, this nature-inspired cafe’s ceiling is filled with lush foliage to create a dining in the wilderness experience. Another photo spot within Nico Cafe is its striking wall, which stands out with old books and flowers plastered all over it. 

Nico Cafe is located at Level 1, Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Road, Singapore 238880, Tel: 91771993. Visit its website for more information.

9. East Coast Commune

Tucked away at the Marine Cove enclave of East Coast Park, this modern-looking cafe makes for a great brunch spot for those who’re having fun at the park. From the teal walls and potted plants to the wooden furniture and marine-themed artwork, the cafe’s design has been thoughtfully put together to make for a warm and cosy atmosphere for all diners. 

East Coast Commune is located at #01-03, 1000 ECP, Singapore 449876, Tel: 89504142. Visit its website for more information.

10. Ami Patisserie

Opened in January 2024, Ami Patisserie is a Japanese-style cafe that offers a selection of tongue-tingling desserts and pastry omakase that combine French pastry techniques with Japanese ingredients and flavours. The standalone cafe is located on the grounds of a Colonial bungalow at 27 Scotts Road, and it’s inspired by Kyoto’s traditional wooden townhouses. Stepping inside, you’ll find yourself entering a tranquil refuge from the city’s hustle and bustle. Unwind and enjoy your sweets with a side of the garden view.

Ami Patisserie is located at 27 Scotts Road, Singapore 228222. Visit its website for more information.

11. Cafe Kreams

Singapore is known for its year-long summer season but step into this coffee shop along Maxwell Road and you’ll feel like you’ve switched seasons. The lush autumn trees and warm lighting here will make you feel as though you’re temporarily transported to Japan or Seoul. Be sure to visit when the night falls for an even more romantic experience for two.

Cafe Kreams is located at #01-07, Maxwell Chambers, 32 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069115. Visit its Instagram for more information.

12. Le Jardin

Located in the heart of Fort Canning Park, Le Jardin is a botanical-themed cafe that serves French and other European cuisine. Boasting Victorian-style interiors and stunning floral art, the French garden-inspired cafe offers a unique dining experience away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Le Jardin is located at Level 2, Fort Canning Arts Centre, 5 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179620. Visit its website for more information.

13. Hvala

Inspired by a love for Japanese tea and arts, Hvala features a menu of Japanese and fusion cuisine inside a minimalist-style cafe that guarantees a peaceful haven for an escape from city life. Hvala’s concept of embracing the beauty of the present moment is ideal for meaningful gatherings with your loved ones over a cup of Japanese tea.

Hvala has multiple outlets across Singapore, including Orchard, Somerset, and City Hall. Visit its website for the full list of locations.

14. Wakey Wakey

Wakey Wakey is a vibrant cafe with a variety of brunch and coffee options, and a laid-back atmosphere. As the home of the current Singapore National Barista Champion, this cafe prides itself on serving quality coffee and dishes within its homely interior.

Wakey Wakey is located at #01-04/5 Concourse Skyline, 302 Beach Road, Singapore 199600. Visit its Instagram for more information.

15. Coexist Coffee Co.

If you’re looking for an industrial-style cafe with an extensive menu of sandwiches, desserts, and coffee, Coexist Coffee Co. is the place for you. Its Paya Lebar outlet is airy and spans two levels, while the Hillview outlet is located atop an industrial building and offers scenic views.

Coexist Coffee Co. is located at #01-02 Lifelong Learning Institute, 11 Eunos Road 8, Singapore 408601, and #08-00 Hillview Building, 48 Hillview Terrace, Singapore 669269. Visit its website for more information.

16. Vernacular Coffee

With a selection of eight single-origin coffee beans, Vernacular Coffee offers a range of specialty brews coupled with croissants, ice cream sandwiches, and other pastries. A short five-minute walk from Mountbatten MRT station, this cafe promises a quiet ambience with quality coffee.

Vernacular Coffee is located at #01-02, 100 Guillemard Road, Singapore 399718. Visit its website for more information.

17. Well Collective

A concept helmed by the same people behind Botany and Ritual, Well Collective is a café by day and bar by night. The place is bright and airy with wooden furniture and beige walls. There are three sections: a main dining hall, a work-friendly section equipped with power sockets, and a pet-friendly alfresco.

Well Collective is located at #02-11/12, Northshore Plaza,418 Northshore Drive, Singapore 820418. Visit its website for more information.

18. Rise Bakehouse

If you’re a fan of the colour pink, you definitely have to head down to Rise Bakehouse. It is a halal-friendly artisanal bakery cafe serving coffee, gelato and its signature brown butter waffles. The cafe is spacious and meticulously decorated with dried flowers, giving off a cosy ambience.

Rise Bakehouse is located at #01-53, 148 Potong Pasir Avenue 1, Singapore 350148, and #01-05, TripleOne Somerset, Singapore 238164. Visit its website for more information.

19. Apartment Coffee

Minimalist lovers will be familiar with this cafe furnished with mini coffee tables, cushy sofa seats, and a long communal table for all types of gatherings. Founded on the idea of inviting customers ‘home’, Apartment Coffee promises a welcoming space for visitors to enjoy a cup of coffee comfortably.

Apartment Coffee is located at #01-01, 139 Selegie Road, Singapore 188309. Visit its website for more information.

20. Merci Marcel

Merci Marcel prides itself on serving food and drinks with a French flair. With four outlets across the country, each boasting tasteful interiors and an inviting atmosphere, Merci Marcel has become a go-to spot for a weekend rendezvous.

Merci Marcel has outlets in Club Street, East Coast, Orchard and Tiong Bahru. Visit its website for the full list of locations.

This article was originally published in Harper’s Bazaar Singapore.