We know you’ve seen the term “hidden gem” thrown around a lot, especially on social media. Not everything deserves the label, but we can all agree it’s nice to have a cosy spot to sneak away after a long and tiring week. If that sounds like your kind of vibe, we have a list of back-alley, “hidden” cafes in Singapore – not really a secret, but tucked away just enough to feel special.
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Not really, but they certainly have that hole-in-the-wall charm, usually located on side streets and in quiet back lanes of housing estates. They’re intimate venues with minimal or no seating, and offer classic cafe selections like matcha lattes.
Don’t worry about having to wander aimlessly to find them – Google Maps will lead you straight there.
Bee Hoe Coffee is a quaint spot in Joo Chiat serving up a blend of classic and Vietnamese-style brews. This cafe operates out of the back of Autocutt Boardroom, a barber shop, and has outdoor seating where you can sip and chill. So if you’re heading down for a haircut, you might as well treat yourself to a cuppa too.
Go for the Iced Salted Coffee ($6) and pair it with a savoury Bakkwa Roti ($4.90). Dairy-free folks can also swap in oat milk for an additional $1.
Image credit: Eatbook
If you’re looking for a comfy place to lepak, check out Hideout Coffee Bar. It’s located in a back alley along Mackenzie Road in Geylang, with 2 seating options to choose from. Outside, you’ll find alfresco chairs perfect for lounging with an iced drink.
Image credit: Hideout Coffee Bar via Google Maps
Meanwhile, the interior features a rustic-style diner aesthetic with barstools and 1 communal table. Space is limited, so you might not be able to stay long during peak hours. But with a menu that swings from sweet treats, like Biscoff Cookie ($5) and Lemon Cake ($5), to savoury picks like Tuna Melt ($14) and Meatball Sandwich ($16), it’s worth the trip. Pair it all with a Matcha ($7) or Cold Brew ($7.50), and you’re all set.
Image credit: Ebellia Fan via Google Maps
For those in need of a new spot to hang that has a homely vibe, 13.thirtteenn is the way to go – literally. To get to the store, you’ll have to go to the back alley behind Block 74 Tiong Poh Road and look out for the signage pointing the way. You’ll then climb up a flight of stairs that leads straight into the back entrance of a cosy apartment.
Image credit: @iris.__.nihao via Instagram
One of their signatures is the homemade shio pan – buttery Japanese-style salted buns that keep regulars coming back. But the menu is always changing, so stay tuned to 13.thirtteenn’s Instagram for new menu items and combo set deals.
At the time of writing, they’ve got a combo set for $9, which includes an Espressoberry Pop – blackcurrant soda with black espresso – and a Caramel Shio – classic shio pan topped with caramel and pistachio.
Do note: it’s a weekend-only affair, so don’t turn up on a random weekday.
Kopi Khoo is a little shop hidden behind a row of terrace houses in Joo Chiat. Head down the back alley of Tembeling Road and you’ll spot a small window where Paulin Khoo, a 73-year-old grandmother of 5, operates her home-based coffee business.
You wouldn’t miss it. The window’s Peranakan-style design, decked out with festive touches, makes it stand out in the neighbourhood.
Swing by for a quick Latte ($3.50) or Americano ($3.50) in the morning before heading off to work, and you’ll see why people from far and wide head down to support Auntie Paulin’s business.
This new halal spot in a back alley along Baghdad Street goes by the cheeky name Open Secret – a playful nod to the whole hidden gem concept. Here, you’ll get to take your lepak game to the next level, with outdoor seating decked out in camping chairs and small tables for a laid-back vibe.
The concept is a collaboration between State Of Affairs and Grilla Gang, serving up classic cafe beverage selections alongside indulgent cheese toasties. Don’t miss the Iced Strawberry Matcha ($7) paired with Grilla Gang’s signature GG Toastie ($12.50) – a must-try combo.
Brawns & Brains Coffee is a wholesale-and-cafe franchise in Singapore with an outlet in Geylang that is surprisingly hidden. You’ll have to find the back alley behind Lorong 35 at 673 Geyland Road, then look for the row of industrial-looking shuttered lots – the cafe is tucked somewhere in between.
It’s a great brunch spot, whether you’re looking for a pick-me-up before work or a midday coffee fix during your lunch break. They have an array of pastries and breads, like the Smokey Bacon, Mushroom, Broccoli & Cheese quiche ($7.50/slice) and Korvapuusti ($5) – a Finnish cinnamon bun.
Pair them with a strong Iced Espresso Tonic ($8) and you’re ready to conquer another day at the office. It’s mostly grab-and-go, but you’re free to relax for a bit on the benches inside if you fancy.
Hidden in the back alley of Kada At Maxwell is a quaint little window where Pacto by Parchmen serves takeaway orders. If you’re in the area and craving caffeine, wander down the alley and choose from their variety of specialty coffees (from $4) and historical teas (from $5).
For matcha lovers, there’s also the Ceremonial Matcha Latte ($9), made using the traditional Japanese whisking method. This technique allows the matcha powder to be spread more evenly, bringing out its natural sweetness and enriching the umami notes.
Image credit: Khang Ning Loo (呂康寧) via Google Maps
Tiong Bahru seems to be a hotspot for back-alley cafes, and here’s another one tucked away along Seng Poh Lane. Glass Roasters is a local cafe brand serving up a rotation of special coffee blends, featuring beans originating from all over the globe, including Bali and Colombia. Its Tiong Bahru outlet offers a lovely little nook with a cosy, modern interior.
Pawrents, this cafe is entirely pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furbabies along with you to enjoy their delicious brews. There’s no better way to unwind than with a warm cup of Kyoto Uji Matcha ($8.50) and a loyal companion by your side.
If you’re wandering around Joo Chiat, you’ll most likely spot a takeaway window along the street. This little gem is run by Kohi Roastery & Coffee Bar – a proper hole-in-the-wall spot hiding on the side of the Crane Living building along Joo Chiat Road.
It’s basically made for your Instagram feed, with its recognisable yellow box and the lush greenery surrounding it. While you’re out and about, pop by the cafe and check out their signature Kohito ($7) – an iced black coffee with fresh milk and a dash of mint.
These back-alley cafes provide a safe sanctuary that allows you to escape the chaos for a few minutes or hours. If you’re ever in need of some mental TLC, just visit one of these spots to enjoy a cuppa.
For more hidden gems in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local, Eatbook
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