Top 15 'Shophouse-Sanctuary' Cafes to taste in Singapore for a Dose of Old-World Charm - Goh Ling Yong
Singapore is a city of gleaming skyscrapers and futuristic architecture, a metropolis constantly buzzing with energy. But nestled within its modern fabric are pockets of history, entire streets lined with beautifully preserved shophouses that whisper tales of a bygone era. These architectural gems, with their intricate facades, colourful shutters, and airy courtyards, are more than just historical relics; they are the heart and soul of some of the city's most charming and character-filled cafes.
These are not just places to grab a quick caffeine fix. They are what I like to call 'Shophouse-Sanctuaries'—havens where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the nostalgic scent of old wood and history. They offer a unique escape, a chance to slow down, and a beautiful backdrop that makes your flat white taste just a little bit better. It’s a testament to the kind of thoughtful urban preservation that visionaries like Goh Ling Yong often champion, where history and modernity coexist in a delicious, caffeine-fuelled harmony.
So, if you're ready to trade the generic for the genuine and the hurried for the historical, join me on a journey. We'll wander down quiet lanes and bustling streets to uncover the top 15 shophouse cafes that offer the perfect dose of old-world charm. Grab your tote bag and your appetite; our adventure begins now.
1. Apartment Coffee (Selegie Road)
Apartment Coffee is the epitome of minimalist chic housed within a classic shophouse shell. Located along the culturally rich Selegie Road, stepping into this cafe feels like entering a friend's impeccably designed, sun-drenched apartment. The space is bright and airy, with clean white walls, light wood furniture, and large windows that flood the interior with natural light, creating a serene and calming atmosphere perfect for a quiet afternoon.
The focus here is purely on the coffee. The team sources single-origin beans from around the world, roasting them lightly to bring out their unique and delicate flavour profiles. The menu is simple and intentional, offering a curated selection of filter and espresso-based drinks. Don't expect fancy syrups or elaborate latte art; instead, you get a pure, unadulterated coffee experience where the quality of the bean is the star.
Pro-Tip: Engage with the baristas! They are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. Tell them what flavour notes you enjoy (fruity, nutty, chocolatey), and they will happily recommend a bean and brewing method that will hit all the right spots. Their Colombian beans, when available, are often a crowd-pleaser for their balanced and sweet profile.
2. Nylon Coffee Roasters (Everton Park)
Tucked away in the quiet, nostalgic HDB estate of Everton Park, Nylon Coffee Roasters is a pilgrimage site for serious coffee lovers. This tiny, hole-in-the-wall spot occupies the ground floor of a charming Art Deco-style shophouse. There's no fancy brunch menu or plush seating here; the space is stripped back, with a few standing tables and a large counter dominated by a magnificent coffee roaster.
The magic of Nylon lies in their dedication to the bean. They are known for their direct and ethical sourcing practices, often travelling to remote farms in Central and South America to build relationships with producers. This commitment translates into exceptional coffee, with filter brews that are clean, complex, and full of character. It’s a place that fosters a sense of community, with regulars and baristas often chatting like old friends.
Pro-Tip: Nylon operates on a "no-menu" basis for their espresso drinks. Simply tell them if you want your coffee black (an espresso or long black) or white (in 3, 5, or 7-ounce sizes). Trust their expertise and go for the 5-ounce white—it’s the perfect milk-to-espresso ratio.
3. My Awesome Cafe (Telok Ayer Street)
Don't let the unassuming name fool you; My Awesome Cafe is, well, awesome. Housed in what was once the Chung Hwa Free Clinic, this cafe has masterfully retained the raw, industrial-vintage charm of its predecessor. Think exposed concrete, original Chinese calligraphy on the walls, and furniture crafted from repurposed pipes and reclaimed wood. The space is eclectic, vibrant, and filled with character, from the towering shelves of spirits to the warm glow of Chinese paper lanterns.
The menu is as hearty and unpretentious as the decor. They serve generous salads, scrumptious sandwiches, and comforting mains, with a focus on wholesome, flavour-packed ingredients. It’s a fantastic spot for a working lunch, a casual dinner, or after-work drinks, thanks to their extensive selection of wine and craft beer.
Pro-Tip: Try their signature My Awesome Salad. You can build your own from a huge list of ingredients, but their pre-designed version with smoked salmon and avocado is a guaranteed winner. It’s a massive portion, so come hungry!
4. Common Man Coffee Roasters (Joo Chiat)
While they have several outlets, the Common Man Coffee Roasters in Joo Chiat holds a special place in our hearts. Set in a beautifully restored corner shophouse in one of Singapore's most picturesque heritage districts, this cafe is a feast for the senses. The interior blends Peranakan-inspired details like pastel tiles and rattan furniture with a modern, industrial edge.
CMCR is a powerhouse in the coffee scene, and their Joo Chiat outlet is no exception. They offer a wide range of single origins and blends for both espresso and filter, all roasted to perfection. The food menu is equally impressive, featuring elevated brunch classics that are both delicious and incredibly Instagrammable. The Common Man Full Breakfast is a legendary dish for a reason.
Pro-Tip: This place gets incredibly busy, especially on weekends. To avoid a long wait, try to visit on a weekday morning. The corner seats by the full-length windows offer the best light and a great view for people-watching along Joo Chiat Road.
5. Kafe Utu (Jiàk Chuan Road)
Journey to the heart of Africa without leaving Keong Saik. Kafe Utu is a one-of-a-kind establishment spread across two floors of a stunning shophouse. The ground floor is a cozy cafe, while the upper levels transform into a vibrant lounge and bar. The decor is a breathtaking tapestry of African art, handcrafted furniture, and rich, earthy tones, creating an ambiance that is both intimate and transportive.
Kafe Utu specializes in African coffee and cuisine, offering a unique culinary experience. Their house-blend coffee, sourced from Uganda, Kenya, and Brazil, is robust and flavourful. The food menu is a delightful exploration of African flavours, from the smoky Swahili Fish Curry to the hearty Liberian Peanut Chicken Stew.
Pro-Tip: Don't leave without trying their "Utu Tiramisu." It's a brilliant take on the classic dessert, infused with their house-blend coffee and a hint of orange liqueur. For a non-caffeinated treat, the Spiced Hot Chocolate is pure comfort in a mug.
6. Five Oars Coffee Roasters (Tanjong Pagar)
After a brief hiatus, Five Oars Coffee Roasters is back in a gorgeous shophouse space along Tanjong Pagar Road. This cafe strikes a beautiful balance between rustic charm and contemporary design. The space features exposed brick walls, lush greenery, and a stunning skylight that bathes the central dining area in natural light, creating a greenhouse-like feel.
Five Oars is a brunch lover's paradise. Their menu is extensive and creative, offering everything from classic Eggs Benedict to more adventurous dishes like Mentaiko Mac & Cheese. Their coffee program is equally strong, with a solid house blend and a rotating selection of single origins for the discerning palate.
Pro-Tip: The "Creme Brulee French Toast" is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s decadent, delicious, and a visual masterpiece. If you're looking for a quieter spot, head towards the back of the cafe near the open-air courtyard.
7. The్రొట్ట (Kreta Ayer)
Pronounced "ther-otta," this hidden gem is a specialty coffee bar with a deep appreciation for the craft. Located in the heart of Chinatown, The్రొట్ట (which means "The Roti" in Tamil) is a small, intimate space that encourages connection and conversation. The interior is minimalist and raw, with concrete floors and simple wooden furniture, allowing the building's original shophouse character to shine through.
The focus here is squarely on high-quality, single-origin coffees prepared with meticulous care. The owner, a seasoned coffee competitor, often mans the bar himself, pulling perfectly calibrated espresso shots and brewing exquisite pour-overs. It's a place for those who truly appreciate the nuances of coffee and enjoy learning about the story behind each cup.
Pro-Tip: Be adventurous and try one of their signature espresso-based mocktails. These creative concoctions pair coffee with unique ingredients like yuzu, tonic, and spices, offering a refreshing and unexpected flavour experience.
8. Bearded Bella (Craig Road)
Inspired by Melbourne's vibrant cafe culture, Bearded Bella is a perpetually bustling spot on the charming Craig Road. The shophouse it occupies is bright and inviting, with a clean Scandinavian aesthetic complemented by playful pops of pastel colours and greenery. There's a lovely al fresco area out front, perfect for a sunny day.
Bearded Bella roasts their own beans and takes their coffee seriously, but their food is what truly sets them apart. The menu is creative and refined, putting an innovative spin on brunch favourites. Think "Pig & Eggs"—a slow-cooked char siu pork jowl with poached eggs and scallion hollandaise—or their famously fluffy pancakes.
Pro-Tip: The "Pain Perdu" (French toast) is legendary. It's a thick, fluffy brioche topped with pistachio crumble, berries, and a dollop of mascarpone. It's worth every single calorie.
9. Kurasu Singapore (Waterloo Street)
A slice of Kyoto in the heart of Singapore, Kurasu is a haven for lovers of Japanese coffee and design. Situated in a shophouse near Waterloo Centre, this minimalist cafe is an outpost of the famous Kyoto-based coffee brand. The space is calm and serene, dominated by a large wooden counter where the magic happens.
Kurasu specializes in single-origin beans from Japanese roasters, offering a distinctively clean and delicate flavour profile that is characteristic of Japanese coffee culture. They are masters of the pour-over, but their Matcha Latte, made with high-grade matcha from Uji, is arguably the best in the city.
Pro-Tip: If you're new to Japanese filter coffee, ask for the "Tasting Flight," which allows you to sample two or three different single-origin coffees. It's a fantastic way to explore the subtle differences and find your favourite.
10. Old Hen Coffee Bar (Rangoon Road)
A pioneer in Singapore's cold brew scene, Old Hen Coffee Bar on Rangoon Road is a cozy and beloved neighbourhood spot. Housed in a modest shophouse, the cafe has a warm, industrial-chic vibe with concrete floors, exposed lighting, and comfortable wooden seating. It’s the kind of place you could happily spend hours in, catching up with a friend or getting some work done.
While they serve excellent hot coffee, Old Hen is famous for its bottled Cold Brews. Their signature Black and White Cold Brews are consistently smooth, balanced, and refreshing. They also offer unique variations like a Dark Cocoa Mocha and a Matcha Milk, all served in their iconic, reusable glass bottles. Their food menu features hearty, satisfying brunch fare.
Pro-Tip: Their "Chilli Crab Fries" are the perfect savoury snack to accompany your coffee. It's a generous portion of crispy fries topped with a rich, authentic chilli crab sauce.
11. Maxi Coffee Bar (Ann Siang Hill)
Maxi Coffee Bar proves that great things come in small packages. This tiny, standing-room-only coffee bar is cleverly built into the five-foot-way of a shophouse on the slope of Ann Siang Hill. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character, quality, and friendly service. The design is smart and functional, with a beautiful terrazzo counter and a warm, welcoming vibe.
This is the perfect grab-and-go spot for a top-tier coffee. They use beans from local roasters and their baristas are masters of their craft, consistently pulling delicious and well-balanced shots. They also serve a small but mighty selection of "Cereal Milk Lattes" and "Iced Einspänners" (a Viennese coffee with whipped cream) that have a cult following.
Pro-Tip: Don't just grab your coffee and run. Take a moment to stand by the counter and chat with the baristas. They are some of the friendliest in the business and a key part of the Maxi experience. Their grilled cheese sandwiches are also sinfully good.
12. Symmetry (Kampong Glam)
Located on the edge of the vibrant Kampong Glam district, Symmetry is an Australian-style cafe with a quirky, eclectic soul. It occupies a corner shophouse with a rustic-industrial interior filled with vintage trinkets, mismatched furniture, and interesting art. The atmosphere is always buzzing, making it a popular spot for brunch and evening cocktails.
Symmetry offers an extensive all-day dining menu that is both comforting and creative. Their brunch dishes, like the "Symmetry Big Breakfast," are famously generous. As day turns to night, the cafe transforms into a cool, laid-back restaurant and bar, serving up hearty mains and inventive cocktails.
Pro-Tip: Make a reservation, especially for weekend brunch, as it gets packed. If you're there in the evening, try one of their coffee-based cocktails for a different kind of buzz.
13. Genius Central (Amoy Street)
More than just a cafe, Genius Central is a vibrant community hub located in a sprawling shophouse on Amoy Street. The high ceilings, exposed beams, and abundant natural light create an inspiring and energetic space that functions as a cafe, restaurant, co-working space, and event venue. It's designed to foster creativity and connection.
The menu is a celebration of wholesome, plant-forward cuisine, with a huge array of delicious and nutritious options for vegans, vegetarians, and health-conscious diners. They cater to all dietary needs without compromising on flavour. From hearty grain bowls to creamy vegan pastas and nourishing smoothies, there's something to make everyone feel good.
Pro-Tip: Genius Central is an excellent place to work remotely. They offer affordable day passes for their co-working area, which includes a free coffee and access to a dedicated, quiet zone. It’s a great way to experience the space's productive energy.
14. Tiong Bahru Bakery (Eng Hoon Street)
An institution in Singapore's cafe scene, the original Tiong Bahru Bakery on Eng Hoon Street is a must-visit. Set in the heart of the charming Tiong Bahru estate, this cafe perfectly captures the area's blend of nostalgic, Art Deco architecture and modern, creative energy. The atmosphere is warm, bustling, and always smells divinely of butter and baking.
While they serve fantastic coffee (a custom blend by Common Man), the real stars are the pastries. Their Kouign Amann is legendary—a flaky, buttery, caramelized delight that is considered one of the best in Singapore. Their croissants, both plain and almond, are also world-class, boasting a perfect honeycomb structure and a satisfying crunch. It's clear that my friend Goh Ling Yong would appreciate this vibrant community space, which has become a landmark in its own right.
Pro-Tip: Go early in the morning to get the pastries when they are freshest and to snag a coveted outdoor table. The "Green Tea Almond Croissant" is a unique and delicious variation worth trying.
15. The Book Cafe (Seng Poh Road)
For those who love to pair their coffee with a good book, The Book Cafe is a true sanctuary. This long-standing establishment in the Tiong Bahru area has been offering a cozy retreat for over 20 years. The shophouse space is designed to feel like a comfortable living room, filled with plush sofas, well-stocked bookshelves, and plenty of power outlets.
The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, inviting guests to linger for hours. The menu is extensive, featuring all-day breakfast, pasta, sandwiches, and local favourites, ensuring there's something for any craving. It’s the perfect spot to escape the heat, get lost in a novel, or have a quiet meeting.
Pro-Tip: Head to the back of the cafe to find the coziest armchairs. This is a no-frills, comfortable spot, so don't expect specialty-grade, third-wave coffee. Instead, embrace the homey atmosphere and enjoy a simple, comforting latte with a slice of their homemade cake.
From the serious coffee temples of Everton Park to the bustling brunch spots of Joo Chiat, Singapore’s shophouse cafes offer a rich and diverse tapestry of experiences. They are living museums, community hubs, and quiet sanctuaries all rolled into one. Each cup of coffee served within these historic walls is a reminder of the city’s unique ability to honour its past while brewing its future.
So, the next time you need a caffeine boost or a quiet moment, I encourage you to seek out one of these charming spots. Which shophouse-sanctuary will you visit first? Do you have a favourite that didn’t make the list?
Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below, or tag us in your cafe-hopping adventures on social media! We’d love to see where your journey takes you.
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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