It seems like the previously quieter Alexandra is fast becoming a hotspot for new cafes, especially indie coffee shops.
These independent coffee havens are not just serving up meticulously crafted beverages; they are building a vibrant, caffeinated community.
You would find Rookie’s Coffee Shop, Anagram, Overbrod, Fang Patisserie, Acai Brothers, Sonder and the newly opened Kyuukei Coffee – all of walking distance from one another.
Tucked away at Block 121 near Alexandra Village Food Centre, Kyuukei Coffee has quietly opened its doors.
The name which means “rest” in Japanese, promises a respite for those in search of both solace and a good cup of coffee.
The café with its concept rooted in intermission and break, offers an environment that feels like a soothing pause amidst Singapore’s non-stop rhythm.
There are both indoor and outdoor seating areas (though I must say Singapore’s weather is quite hot of late.)
Upon entering, I was greeted with a minimalist Japanese-style décor, but sitting is limited to two inside.
The menu, though concise, was thoughtfully put together.
Coffee choices include Espresso ($4), Long Black ($4.50), Flat White ($5), Latte ($5.50), Cappuccino ($5.50), and Mocha ($6).
For those looking for non-dairy alternatives, you can opt for oat milk for an additional $1.
They use rotating beans, such as Honduras single origin with milk chocolate notes; and Columbian beans which are fruitier and more floral (which the barista said some notes may just remind you of hawthorn) .
I liked my Flat White which was medium-bodied, smooth with a robust taste.
For the Iced Black ($5), the fruity and floral notes of their Columbian beans provided complexity that was both refreshing and invigorating.
A welcome relief in Singapore’s tropical climate, especially if you are sitting outdoors.
But what is coffee without a treat on the side?
The house-baked pastries such as Canelé, Banana Bread, and Financiers rounded off the menu.
While I thought that the Banana Bread could be a tad fluffier, the Financier was buttery and delightful.
I have made a mental note to try the Canelé de Bordeaux next time – with crispy exterior and custardy center rich with vanilla.
There is also the Foccacia ($4) dotted with cherry tomatoes and rosemary; and Toasties ($15) filled with mushroom gremolata or classic ham & cheese with tomato combination.
Kyuukei Coffee offers those seeking a momentary retreat from the world. Plus they do conduct coffee ‘omakase’ workshops, so look out for those.
Kyuukei Coffee
121 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-06, Singapore 150121
Opening Hours: 8am – 4pm (Tues – Sat), Closed Sun, Mon
Rookie’s Coffee Shop (Bt Merah Lane 1)
Anagram (Alexandra)
Overbrod (Alexandra)
Fang Patisserie (Alexandra)
Sonder (Bukit Merah)
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