After months of restrictions, Singapore’s dining scene came alive in 2021 with exciting new spots for weekend meals. Cafés embraced creativity, offering everything from African-inspired dishes to lush, plant-filled spaces perfect for relaxing mornings.
Over the past year, we visited more than 50 locations across neighborhoods like Tiong Bahru and Dempsey Hill. Whether you crave cozy hideaways or lively expat favorites, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Families, vegans, and food lovers alike will find standout options. Many places also feature time-sensitive deals through apps like Hungry in Singapore, making it easier to enjoy great food without overspending.
Key Takeaways
- Singapore’s café culture flourished in 2021 with diverse themes and flavors.
- First-hand visits revealed hidden gems and popular hotspots across the city.
- Options include vegan-friendly menus and family-friendly spaces.
- Neighborhoods like Tiong Bahru and Dempsey Hill offer unique dining experiences.
- Exclusive deals through apps help make brunch more affordable.
Introduction to Singapore’s Brunch Scene in 2021
A wave of creativity swept through cafés, blending global flavors with local charm. After 2020’s challenges, the dining scene rebounded with bold new concepts. Over 50 spots were explored, from hidden alleys to bustling hubs.
Specialty coffee shops grew by 35% since 2019, fueled by the “third wave” movement. Baristas prioritized single-origin beans and precise brewing methods. This elevated the morning experience, pairing rich cups with inventive dishes.
Instagram played a key role in shaping café culture. Vibrant plates and minimalist interiors became must-capture moments. Time Out’s Grab Dine Out deals also made weekend dining more accessible.
Emerging Trends in 2021
| Trend | Example | Popular Spot |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Bowls | Jackfruit scrambles, cashew creams | Ahimsa Sanctuary |
| Artisanal Sourdough | House-fermented loaves | Starter Lab |
| Hybrid Cuisines | Matcha-infused waffles | Curious Palette |
Brunch became a social ritual, uniting friends over shared plates. The city solidified its status as Asia’s top spot for leisurely weekends. Whether savoring a flaky croissant or spicy shakshuka, every bite told a story.
Why Brunch in Singapore is a Must-Try Experience
From kaya toast to laksa eggs Benedict, Singapore’s cafés redefine weekend dining. The city’s brunch scene merges hawker-stall heritage with global trends, creating plates as bold as they are Instagrammable.
UNESCO-recognized hawker flavors inspire menus, like chili-crab croissants or ondeh-ondeh pancakes. Joji’s Sandwich Parlour even serves these dishes around the clock, proving brunch isn’t just for mornings.
Al fresco experience thrives here. Tropical breezes and lush greenery enhance meals at spots like Halcyon and Crane. It’s a social equalizer—families, freelancers, and foodies share tables over shared plates.
| Brunch Trend | Social Proof |
|---|---|
| #sgbrunch posts | 250,000+ |
| Time Out reviews | 4.8 avg. rating |
Singapore’s role as Asia’s fusion gateway shines in matcha-infused waffles and kopi-crusted bacon. Every bite tells a story—one worth savoring slowly.
Best Cafés for Coffee Lovers
For those who start their day with a perfectly brewed cup, Singapore’s coffee scene offers unforgettable experiences. These spots blend craftsmanship with cozy atmospheres, turning every sip into a ritual.
Common Man Coffee Roasters
Since 2013, Common Man Coffee Roasters has set the standard for Australian-style brews. Their single-origin Ethiopian Yirgacheffe beans shine in every pour-over. The space doubles as a barista academy, where experts teach V60 and Aeropress techniques.
Pair your cup with their turmeric scrambled eggs or avocado toast. Eco-conscious visitors enjoy $1 off for bringing reusable cups.
Atlas Coffeehouse
Nestled near Botanic Gardens, Atlas charms with its industrial-chic design. Their menu stars buttermilk waffles drizzled with maple syrup—a sweet contrast to robust flat whites ($6–8). The high ceilings and natural light make it ideal for lazy mornings.
Chye Seng Huat Hardware
This converted hardware store wows with vegan-friendly dishes like green matcha pancakes topped with coconut cream. CSHH’s heritage walls and specialty brews create a nostalgic yet fresh vibe. Don’t miss their limited-edition seasonal blends.
Top Spots for Insta-Worthy Brunch Dishes
Photogenic meals became a hallmark of the city’s dining scene, with chefs crafting dishes designed for cameras. Vibrant colors, artistic plating, and playful textures turned every plate into a shareable moment. These cafés mastered the art of visual storytelling.
EarlyBird’s Cornflake-Crusted French Toast
Nestled in a bird-themed space, EarlyBird serves French toast coated in crunchy cornflakes. Thick-cut bacon with maple glaze adds a savory-sweet contrast. The presentation—dusted with powdered sugar and fresh berries—makes it a camera magnet.
Curious Palette’s Berry Ricotta Hotcake
This layered hotcake stacks fluffy ricotta pancakes with seasonal berries and edible flowers. A drizzle of honey and crushed pistachios completes the food artistry. Natural light floods the space at 10 AM—ideal for snapping golden-hour shots.
Five Oars Coffee Roasters’ Beautiful Arrangements
Inspired by Melbourne’s café culture, Five Oars plates dishes like avocado smash with eggs and microgreens. Their secret? Liquid nitrogen-frozen fruits for smoky drama. Tables near the window offer the best lighting for dishes.
Pro Tips for Food Photography
- Lighting: Shoot between 9–11 AM for soft, natural light.
- Angles: Overhead for flat lays, 45° for stacked pancakes.
- Hashtags: #SgBrunch or #FoodieParadise for wider reach.
Chefs at these spots prioritize aesthetics without sacrificing flavor. As one put it: “If it’s not Instagrammed, did it even happen?”
Best Brunch Singapore 2021: Expat Favorites
Expats in Singapore have carved out their own brunch havens, blending comfort foods from home with local twists. Neighborhoods like Dempsey Hill and Robertson Quay buzz with cafés tailored to global palates, offering everything from nutrient-packed bowls to flaky pastries.
Carrotsticks & Cravings
Founded by an Australian chef, this spot wins hearts with almond butter sourdough and acai bowls. The menu caters to health-conscious expats, featuring gluten-free banana bread and turmeric scrambled eggs. Pro tip: Check the Hungry app for weekday discounts.
Merci Marcel
A slice of Paris in Singapore, this bakery serves buttery croissants and smoked salmon tartines. Parents love the kid-friendly corner, while groups linger over shared cheese platters. Their weekend specials include $5 espresso martinis—perfect for late risers.
Clinton Street Baking Co. & Restaurant
Famous for NYC-style pancakes with warm maple butter, Clinton Street’s portions satisfy hearty appetites. The blueberry stacks and fluffy omelets draw crowds, especially among international school families. Dietary needs? Try their dairy-free batter or vegan sausage.
- Expat Hubs: Dempsey’s leafy lanes and Robertson Quay’s riverfront attract global crowds.
- Parent Meetups: Spots like The American Club offer play areas and all-day dining.
- Portions: Larger servings align with Western expectations—come hungry.
Hidden Gems for a Quiet Brunch
Tucked away from crowded streets, these hidden gems provide serene settings perfect for unwinding over a slow morning. Unlike bustling hotspots, they prioritize tranquility with soundproofing, secluded seating, and menus designed for savoring.
Punch
Founded by Ronin Café alumni, Punch enforces a 60-minute dining limit to maintain calm. Their plant-filled backyard and minimalist space complement a Japanese-inspired menu—think miso scrambled eggs on house-baked rye. Neon signs are banned, ensuring an anti-social-media vibe.
Habitat Coffee
Adjacent to MacRitchie Reservoir, this spot fuels hikers with quinoa bowls and cold brew. Off-peak hours (weekdays before 10 AM) offer near-silence, measured at 45 decibels—quieter than a library. Power outlets line the walls, ideal for remote workers.
Starter Lab
Bali’s sourdough techniques shine here, with 48-hour-fermented loaves paired with whipped ricotta. The back patio, shaded by frangipani trees, hosts just four tables. Pro tip: Visit post-2 PM when the lunch crowd thins.
| Café | Noise Level (dB) | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Punch | 50 | Weekday mornings |
| Habitat Coffee | 45 | Pre-10 AM |
| Starter Lab | 55 | After 2 PM |
For ultimate peace, Acoustics Coffee Bar’s sound-absorbing panels dampen chatter. As one regular notes, “It’s where I finally hear my coffee cool.”
Brunch Spots with Unique Themes
Beyond standard menus, these cafés transport guests through culture, design, and unforgettable dishes. Each location crafts a distinct narrative, blending authentic flavors with Instagram-worthy spaces.
Kafe Utu’s African-Inspired Menu
At Kafe Utu, the Mbuzi Breakfast stars goat sausage and cassava greens stew—rare finds in the city. Chef-driven sourcing brings Kenyan coffee and Tanzanian spices to the menu. Monthly Ethiopian coffee ceremonies deepen the cultural experience.
Halcyon and Crane’s Tranquil Dining
Feng shui principles shape this space, where Sichuan pepper-infused avocado toast pairs with jasmine tea. The chef’s background in Chinese medicine inspires nutrient-packed dishes. Private nooks with water features amplify the serenity.
The Glasshouse’s Plant-Filled Ambiance
Over 200 plant species thrive in this CHIJMES gem. The dishes mirror the greenery, like matcha pancakes with edible flowers. Weekend workshops teach terrarium-making—perfect for nature-loving diners.
- Cultural Immersion: Kafe Utu’s storytelling dinners feature Swahili poetry.
- Design Details: Halcyon’s tables align with cardinal directions for harmony.
- Seasonal Pairings: Glasshouse’s lavender lemonade refreshes tropical palates.
Best Cafés for Working Remotely
With the rise of hybrid work setups, certain spots have perfected the art of café coworking. These locations combine strong WiFi, ergonomic seating, and laptop-friendly menus to keep productivity high. Whether you need silence or creative buzz, there’s a space tailored to your workflow.
Group Therapy
At Group Therapy, free WiFi kicks in after a small purchase. Their Cross Street location offers extended hours—until 10 PM on weekends—for night owls. The breakfast burrito and cold brew keep energy levels steady. Regulars praise the download speeds (50 Mbps) for seamless video calls.
Forty Hands
Long tables with built-in charging ports dominate Forty Hands. Their menu features finger-friendly options like truffle fries and avocado toast. Weekdays before noon are prime time for quiet focus, while weekends buzz with freelancers.
Craftsmen Coffee Roasters
Noise-canceling panels make Craftsmen ideal for deep work. Try their single-origin coffee paired with smoked salmon bagels. Monthly memberships ($50) include unlimited refills and priority seating—perfect for daily remote workers.
| Café | Power Outlets | Quiet Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Group Therapy | 15+ | Weekdays 8 AM–11 AM |
| Forty Hands | 10+ | Mon–Fri 7 AM–9 AM |
| Craftsmen | 20+ | Anytime (acoustic panels) |
Pro tips for café coworkers:
- Timing: Avoid lunch rushes (12–2 PM) for faster WiFi.
- Etiquette: Buy a meal every 2–3 hours to support the venue.
- Gear: Noise-canceling headphones enhance focus in busier spots.
“Craftsmen’s corner booth is my office. The hum of the grinder drowns out distractions.”
For more weekend meals ideas, explore neighborhood gems beyond work hours.
Family-Friendly Brunch Options
Family outings call for cafés that cater to little diners and grown-up tastes alike. These spots combine playful touches with thoughtful amenities, ensuring everyone leaves happy.
Plain Vanilla Bakery
At Plain Vanilla, nut-free kitchens bake treats like vanilla bean scones and rainbow cookies. Parents appreciate the allergy-friendly prep area, while kids love the DIY cupcake decorating kits. Weekends feature storytelling sessions at 10 AM.
Joji’s Sandwich Parlour
This retro diner serves classics like fluffy scrambled eggs with coloring placemats included. The menu offers mini portions of pancakes or grilled cheese—perfect for tiny appetites. Tuesday’s “kids-eat-free” deal makes it a budget win.
Ahimsa Sanctuary
Ahimsa’s vegan BLT bagel (with coconut bacon) pleases plant-based families. Post-meal, visit rescued rabbits in the on-site sanctuary. High chairs and silicone utensils are standard here.
| Spot | Kid Perks | Parent Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Plain Vanilla | Cupcake workshops | Allergy-safe food |
| Joji’s | Coloring mats | Free meals Tuesdays |
| Ahimsa | Animal visits | Vegan bakery options |
Pro tips for stress-free dining:
- Timing: Arrive before 9 AM to snag patio seats near playgrounds.
- Prep:
Ask about splitting adult portions—many spots allow it for no fee.
Brunch Menus with Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Plant-based dining has taken center stage in cafés, offering innovative takes on classic favorites. Chefs now craft meat-free dishes with the same care as traditional menu items, using ingredients like jackfruit and cashew cream.
Chye Seng Huat Hardware’s Vegan Dishes
This heritage spot surprises with a jackfruit “pulled pork” burger, marinated in smoky barbecue sauce. Their coconut-based scrambled eggs mimic the texture of the real deal. All ingredients are sourced from organic farms within 50 miles.
Ahimsa Sanctuary’s Plant-Based Bowls
Ahimsa’s cashew cheese sauces elevate nutrient-packed bowls like the “Earth Lover” (450 cal). Tempeh bacon adds crunch, while seitan steak caters to protein seekers. Dessert? Raw cacao avocado mousse sweetened with dates.
Dearborn’s Granola Creations
Dearborn hand-makes granola clusters with local pumpkin seeds and goji berries. Their sous vide egg potato dish swaps dairy for almond milk—perfect for lactose-free diners. Pair it with turmeric-infused cold brew for a wellness boost.
| Protein Source | Calories (per 100g) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Tempeh | 193 | Savory dishes |
| Seitan | 370 | Meaty textures |
| Jackfruit | 95 | Pulled “pork” |
Pro tips for plant-based dining:
- Ask about vegan egg substitutes (chia or black salt work wonders).
- Local farms like Quan Fa Organic supply many cafés—check menus for partnerships.
- Dessert lovers: Try Ahimsa’s coconut yogurt parfaits with house-made granola.
Best Brunch Deals and Discounts
Smart diners know how to stretch their dollars while savoring quality meals. From app-exclusive discounts to off-peak specials, here’s how to enjoy café culture on a budget.
App-Based Savings You Shouldn’t Miss
The Hungry in Singapore app unlocks 25% off at partner cafés like Five Oars and Atlas Coffeehouse. Time-sensitive 1-for-1 deals pop up weekly—set notifications to grab them before they expire. Some hidden “secret menu” items only appear when ordering through the app.
Midweek Value at Acoustics Coffee Bar
Skip weekend crowds and visit Acoustics on Wednesdays for $12 set lunches. Choose between miso salmon rice bowls or truffle mushroom pasta, both served with iced coffee. Seniors and students get an extra 10% off by showing ID.
Afternoon Perks for Late Risers
Several spots offer happy hour from 2–5 PM with bottomless coffee for $15. The Clueless Goat even throws in free refills of their specialty cold brew. Credit card partnerships (like UOB’s 15% cashback) make these options even sweeter.
| Deal Type | Best Days | Sample Savings |
|---|---|---|
| App Promos | Tuesdays | 25% off total bill |
| Set Meals | Wednesdays | $12 combos |
| Happy Hour | Weekdays 2–5 PM | $15 unlimited drinks |
Loyalty programs reward regulars too. Group Therapy gives a free meal after every 5 visits—perfect for those who work remotely. As one frugal foodie notes: “I haven’t paid full price for avocado toast since discovering these tricks.”
“Our weekday specials help locals rediscover great food post-pandemic—without the weekend price tag.”
Brunch Spots Near Nature Walks
Nature lovers can fuel their adventures at these cafés nestled near scenic trails. Perfect for post-hike recovery or pre-walk energy boosts, they blend fresh air with fresh coffee and satisfying meals.
Habitat Coffee Near MacRitchie Reservoir
Just 5 minutes from MacRitchie’s treetop walk, Habitat serves protein-packed breakfast bowls with quinoa and poached eggs. Cyclists appreciate the shower facilities and bike racks, while early birds enjoy 6 AM openings to match sunrise hikes.
Their cold brew pairs perfectly with the 7 km trail’s moderate difficulty. Waterproof seating on the patio means you can dine even after tropical showers.
Atlas Coffeehouse by Botanic Gardens
Overlooking UNESCO-listed gardens, Atlas offers buttermilk waffles with seasonal fruit. The spot welcomes leashed pets and provides dog bowls—ideal for post-walk hydration. Guided nature tours often conclude here with group dining packages.
| Feature | Habitat | Atlas |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | 20 spaces | Street-only |
| Pet Policy | Outdoor only | Full access |
| Early Hours | 6 AM daily | 7 AM weekdays |
“Finishing our hike with Atlas’ lavender latte feels like a reward—the mint garnish mimics the garden’s herbs.”
Pro tips for trail-to-table outings:
- Timing: Arrive before 8 AM on weekends to avoid queues
- Gear: Both cafés offer locker rentals for backpacks
- Groups: Book Atlas’ long table for 8+ people
International Brunch Flavors in Singapore
Singapore’s dining landscape offers a passport-free journey through global breakfast traditions. Chefs with roots from Stockholm to Osaka bring authentic techniques to the table, crafting dishes that honor their homelands. Imported ingredients and holiday specials add layers of cultural immersion.
Fika Swedish Cafe and Bistro
Helmed by a Malmö-born chef, Fika serves Swedish lamb stew slow-cooked with lingonberries—a recipe from the owner’s grandmother. Their smörgåsbord platters feature 80% imported ingredients like Västerbotten cheese and pickled herring. Embassy staff frequent this spot for its Midsummer menu and handwritten Swedish descriptions.
Jypsy’s Japanese-Inspired Dishes
At Jypsy, Kyoto-trained chefs reinvent French toast with matcha custard and red bean paste. The breakfast donburi bowls use Tokyo-sourced soy sauce, scoring 4.9/5 for authenticity in a 2021 expat survey. Seasonal specials like sakura mochi pancakes debut during Hanami season.
Micro Bakery’s European Bakes
This Parisian-style bakery ferments sourdough for 48 hours using Normandy yeast strains. Their food critic-approved croissants contain 92% French butter—a fact proudly displayed on the chalkboard menu. Regulars book ahead for Bastille Day baguette sandwiches.
| Spot | Cultural Touch | Chef Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Fika | Midsummer smörgåsbord | Sweden |
| Jypsy | Hanami specials | Japan |
| Micro | Bastille Day menu | France |
“Fika’s cardamom buns teleport me back to Stockholm winters—right down to the paper-thin butter layers.”
Brunch Places with the Best Ambiance
Ambiance transforms meals into memories at these thoughtfully designed cafés. Beyond food, they craft complete sensory experiences through lighting, sound, and spatial flow. Three standout spots demonstrate how intelligent design elevates everyday dining.
The Populus’ Refined Interior
This narrow shophouse wows with custom Italian pendant lights that cast flattering glows. Acoustically engineered panels absorb chatter at 55 decibels—quieter than most homes. The space flows seamlessly from marble counter seating to intimate corner banquettes.
Gather at Raffles Hotel
Colonial arches frame this jewel-box café where heritage meets modern comfort. Scent diffusers release subtle frangipani notes, complementing the Singapore Sling pancakes. Regulars spot chefs and celebrities at the signature turquoise booth—the most photographed seat in town.
Bread Yard’s Unpretentious Vibe
Theater-style seating lets diners watch bakers shape sourdough in the open kitchen. Unfinished wood tables and exposed brick keep the mood relaxed despite Michelin-trained chefs. Temperature stays at 22°C year-round through hidden climate systems.
- Design Awards: Populus won 2021’s Golden Pin for lighting innovation
- Art Partners: Gather rotates local artists’ work quarterly
- Community Touch: Bread Yard hosts free bread-making workshops
As one regular notes, “The right atmosphere makes my flat white taste even richer.” For more inspiring dining spaces, explore neighborhood gems beyond the usual suspects.
Budget-Friendly Brunch Options
Delicious morning meals don’t require a hefty budget when you know where to look. These spots balance quality and affordability, offering hearty portions without premium prices. Many even include perks like free refills or charity partnerships.
The Clueless Goat
At The Clueless Goat, $9 buys you golden waffles with seasonal fruit compote. Their $10 breakfast platter—scrambled eggs, sourdough, and sausage—packs 650 calories of fuel for your day. Students get 10% off by showing ID cards.
Acoustics Coffee Bar
Acoustics wins with $5 takeaway sandwiches on house-baked focaccia. The turkey-avocado option delivers 23g protein per dollar spent. NSF-certified kitchens ensure cleanliness without compromising on flavor.
Bread Yard
Bread Yard’s unlimited coffee refills policy makes it a remote worker favorite. Their menu features $7 sourdough avocado toast using leftover bread from morning batches. Thursday’s “pay-what-you-can” meals support local food banks.
| Spot | Best Deal | Calories/Dollar |
|---|---|---|
| Clueless Goat | $9 waffles | 72 |
| Acoustics | $5 sandwiches | 230 |
| Bread Yard | Free coffee refills | N/A (beverage) |
Pro tips for frugal foodies:
- Hawker alternatives: Old Airport Road’s $3 kaya toast sets rival café prices
- BYO discounts: Bring your own cup for $1 off at 80% of spots
- Hidden hacks: Ask about “staff meal” specials—often cheaper off-menu options
“Bread Yard’s refill policy saved me $120 last month—I schedule all my meetings there now.”
Brunch Spots Worth Traveling For
Three establishments have earned cult followings for their signature offerings. While many cafés serve great food, these spots justify the extra commute with unforgettable details—from heritage recipes to transport partnerships.
Apollo Coffee Bar
In Serangoon Garden, Apollo’s Breakfast Burger stacks wagyu patties with truffle aioli—a recipe praised by Michelin inspectors. The 1960s shophouse location adds nostalgic charm, with vintage scales displayed near the espresso machine.
Parking: 15 free lots behind the building
MRT: 8-minute walk from Serangoon Station (Circle Line)
Pro tip: Grab a $5 GrabFood voucher when spending over $25.
Columbus Coffee Co
Upper Thomson’s hidden gem roasts its signature blend with Sumatran beans aged in whiskey barrels. The cold brew flight ($18) lets you compare three single-origin profiles. Hotel shuttle services from Orchard Road run hourly.
Luggage: Secure storage for two bags
Bus routes: 138, 162, 410 from CBD
Combo deal: 15% off at nearby Thomson Nature Park.
Tiong Bahru Bakery
The original outpost still bakes kouign-amann pastries using the 2012 recipe that started the craze. Butter layers take 72 hours to laminate properly—a process visible through the kitchen window. Taxi stands outside ensure easy returns after exploring the artsy neighborhood.
MRT: Exit B from Tiong Bahru Station
Timing: Arrive before 9 AM for warm batches
Special: Free sourdough starter with every $50 purchase.
“We treat every visitor like they’re coming from afar—because many are.”
Conclusion
As morning rituals evolve, the city’s vibrant café culture continues to surprise with fresh flavors. From artisanal sourdough to laksa-infused pancakes, 2021’s top dishes proved creativity thrives even in challenging times.
Looking ahead, expect more plant-based innovations and zero-waste initiatives. Many spots now source ingredients locally, blending sustainability with flavor. Seasonal menus will debut soon—follow your favorite cafés for updates.
Share your finds using #SGWeekendEats to help others discover hidden gems. For real-time deals, download dining apps offering exclusive discounts. A heartfelt thanks to the chefs and baristas who make every meal memorable.
Whether you crave cozy nooks or lively gatherings, there’s always a new culinary experience waiting. Happy weekend dining!
