3 Must-Visit Joo Chiat Cafés on the Go

There are many hidden troves in the East of Singapore, and I am grateful to call this area my home. Living here allows me to indulge in the charm of numerous cafes that dot the neighbourhood. 1. King's Cart Coffee Among my top picks is King's Cart Coffee, a haven for coffee enthusiasts seeking unique concoctions with a local flair. Some interesting flavours are Pandan Sweet Cream and Sng Buay (Sour Plum). I am not that adventurous when it comes to coffee. My steadfast choice is always the Mocha Bloom—a blend of orange syrup and chocolate flakes. Its nostalgic taste brings back some wonderful childhood memories of unwrapping small rectangular chocolate from orange wrappers. For the food, I tried their Holiday Specials - Baked Brie. This simple yet exquisite dish features brie topped with roasted garlic, accompanied by toasted bread and a side of fruits. The marriage of garlic and brie creates a delightful savoury symphony—buttery and creamy, with that extra hint of a burnt taste, making it the quintessential holiday indulgence. What sets this cafe apart is its commitment to creating a unique experience, from distinct coffee flavours to the roasting of their own coffee beans. Whether you're a dedicated coffee enthusiast or someone seeking a delightful escape, give King's Cart Coffee a visit. It won't disappoint! Address: 328 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427585 Price: $$$ Coffee starts from SGD$9 Rating: 5/5 2. Nimbus My regular visits to Nimbus are always highlighted by their standout charcoal crispy chicken waffle and irresistible spam fries. Each bite of the chicken offers a delightful contrast between its crispy exterior and tender, juicy center, perfectly complemented by the fluffy waffle. And those spam fries? They strike a perfect balance of flavour without overwhelming saltiness, thanks to a light coating of flour. But Nimbus isn't just about the food; it's an experience in itself. Beyond their culinary prowess, the cafe boasts an impressive skill in latte art. Their talented baristas not only brew exceptional coffee but also transform each cup into a work of art. During my latest visit, I was greeted with the whimsical sight of a beautifully drawn unicorn atop my latte—a delightful touch that truly made my day. Address: 477 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427683 Price: Mains start from SGD$20 and drinks start from SGD$5 Rating: 4/5 3. Hello Arigato Recently joining the vibrant stretch of Joo Chiat is Hello Arigato, a minimalist café characterised by its whitewashed walls and cemented floors. Its unassuming exterior may easily escape notice as you stroll by, but don't let that fool you—inside, it's a different story altogether. Despite its simple design, Hello Arigato surprises with its exceptional food and coffee offerings that surpass expectations. During my solo visit, I opted for their outlet exclusive dish, the Ebi Sando, featuring a tiger prawn patty paired with Japanese tartar sauce and tobiko mayo. The fusion of flavours was truly outstanding, particularly the delightful pop of tobiko that added an intriguing texture and elevated the dish to another level. Turning to their coffee selection, Hello Arigato boasts their own house beans, sourced from the single origin Yiragacheffe region. While its floral and fruity notes shine through, some may find it more suited for black coffee enthusiasts rather than those who prefer a nuttier, bolder brew. Address: 314 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427 Price: Food starts from SGD$12 and drinks start from SGD$4 Rating: 3.5/5