Tired of WFH? Here are places you can work at besides Starbucks
You'd never expect to work remotely at these places in the past
Ever since the pandemic, working from home and hybrid work has become the norm for many of us. While it affords (some of) us flexibility and work-life balance, it can get monotonous.
And while we would like to have a change in working environment sometimes, observing social and safe distancing measures is something we'd have to consider.
That said, Starbucks is not the only place you can work from and neither or co-working spaces. Here are some others you might want to check out!
Located within 21 Carpenter, a new heritage hotel, this neo-bistro & bar welcomes digital nomads who are on the hunt for a new place to work away from home. Open from 7am to midnight, Kee's boasts a cosy and stylish setting, with free WiFi and multiple power outlets. To satisfy your hunger pangs, be sure to also try some of the affordable dishes created by Michelin-starred Chef Andrew Walsh or get your caffeine fix from local roasters Tiong Hoe.
If you're looking for a place to have your meetings or get some work done in between appointments in the CBD, check out the Lobby Bar at Amara Singapore. Nestled within the vibrant district of Tanjong Pagar, this work and lounge dining space offers delicious grub including pastries as well as artisanal coffee from 7am to 4pm for those who are on the go. For those seeking solace after a demanding day, or perhaps a moment to savour the finer things in life, the Lobby Bar offers a wide assortment of wines, perfect for those who want to unwind and indulge in a well-deserved respite, whether it's a leisurely evening unwind or a midday escape. The space also features long communal tables with built-in power plugs and complimentary WiFi for all guests.
Tanamera Coffee & Roastery is best known for its freshly roasted coffee and Indonesian cuisine. But what many might not know is that the cafe also makes for a great place for those who are looking to do some work as well. A conducive space, this cafe also offers free wifi and power sockets, so you can bring your laptop along.
Multiple locations in Singapore including CIMB Plaza, Tanglin Mall, Robertson Quay, Tanglin Mall and more. To view the full list, check out their website here.
What started out as a quaint little hole-in-a-wall coffee shop, has turned into a popular cafe with three outlets across Singapore. While its popular outlet at Guillemard Road is temporarily closed for renovation works, you'll also find the cafes at other locations like Hamilton Road, East Coast Road and Keong Saik Road.
Kith Cafe has been around for some time but it's still one of the best places to go if you're looking to do some work on the weekdays. Not only do they provide a conducive space for you to work but it also boasts value-for-money lunch sets that are great especially when you're feeling peckish during lunchtime.
Multiple locations in Singapore including Millenia Walk, Thomson Plaza, Great World and more.
Torn between having pastries, a full meal or even just coffee? Huggs Coffee is the place to be. What we love most about the cafe is its extensive array of coffee options they have on the menu, as well as delicious grub for you to sink your teeth into. With so many outlets located around Singapore, this cafe also provides power sockets and free wifi, making it a great space for you to work if you're not in the office.
Multiple locations including Clarke Quay Central, Thomson Plaza, Paya Lebar Quarter, i12 Katong, and more. Visit the website here for more information.
This list wouldn't be complete without our favourite national libraries. With over 31 libraries located islandwide, the national library has proven to be an excellent space for you to not only borrow and browse from an extensive collection of books, but it's also a great space for both students and office-goers to work at. There are loads of seating and studying areas for you to choose from, you'll never have to worry about not finding a seat.
On top of that, places like the National Library Building at Victoria Street houses the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library that's open for reference services and enquiries. On Level 10, you'll also find exhibition areas as well as a news gallery on Level 11, where you can find some respite or even a quick pick-me-up.
But before you make your way down to the nearest library in your neighbourhood, we recommend checking on the crowd levels online on the National Library website, so you can plan out which outlet to visit.
Multiple locations in Singapore including Bedok, Bishan, Esplanade, Woodlands and more. To view the full list, check out their website here.
If you love being surrounded by plenty of natural light and greenery, The Glasshouse is right up your alley. It’s also the perfect place for coffee lovers with its speciality blends.
30 Victoria St, #01-03 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996
Opening hours: 8am to 7pm daily
Genius Central welcomes freelancers, entrepreneurs, and students alike with open arms – or rather, a free coffee (for the first ten reservations every day). There are different seating options whether you’re working on a group discussion or a solo project.
7 Amoy Street, #01-01, Far East Square, Singapore 049949
Opening hours: 8am to 8.30pm (Monday to Thursday), 8am to 9.30pm (Friday and Saturday), 8am to 4pm (Sunday)
A large and airy space in a heritage building, Twenty Eight is perfect for those looking for good food to fuel your work and plenty of tables to choose from. Those with a sweet tooth should try the Indian Churros, which are prata twists coated in cinnamon sugar.
28 Wilkie Rd, #01-06, Singapore 228051
Opening hours: 7.30am to 4.30pm (Monday to Friday), 8am to 4.30pm (Saturday and Sunday)
A cafe, art gallery, and events space all in one, Grids Coffee takes up three stories of a Chinatown shophouse. With fast WiFi, plenty of space, and power outlets, it’s an ideal space to work – you’ll just need to spend a minimum of $30 and call ahead for a reservation. The cafe, however, is temporarily closed until further notice as it's undergoing a revamp, but if you're wondering when the cafe will reopen again, we recommend that you stay tuned to their socials for more updates.
200 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058749
Opening hours: 9am to 6pm (Monday, Wednesday and Sunday), 9am to 12am (Thursday, Friday and Saturday), closed on Tuesday
Versions of this article were first published in The Straits Times, and Home & Decor.