Sometimes all you need is a long vacation away from the rat race, preferably somewhere exotic and relaxing. But if you can’t get away from the mounting pile of work on your desk and all of your other responsibilities? Fret not, we’ve rounded up some Singaporean cafes that’ll take you to faraway, exotic places while you enjoy some drinks and snacks. Leave your passport at home, all you need is a long lunch break or a free weekend afternoon.
If you’re all about Latin-American flavours, love your meat grilled and your spices kickin’ hot, you’ll want to make a reservation at Panamericana Singapore right away. With their signature “farm-to-fire” philosophy, look forward to wolfing down a fresh, hearty meal while enjoying the stunning view this jewel offers. Our recommendations? Its refreshing Peruvian Ceviche ($18) with green mango and fresh slices of snapper, or the Land and Sea ($28) which is an intriguing mix of crackling roast belly and scallops topped with jicama salsa. Don’t forget the Churros ($14) with dulce de leche which will send you to dessert heaven.
Panamericana Singapore is at Sentosa Golf Club, 27 Bukit Manis Road, Singapore 099892, tel: 6253 8182.
Photo: Instagram (@panamericanasg)
The spot to be for Francophiles and lovers of French cuisine alike, Merci Marcel’s Parisian-inspired decor will sweep you right off your feet. Our favourite is the beautifully chic garden patio that sports lush greenery, bricked walls and natural light — perfect for the ‘gram. Standing out amongst the many hipster cafes in Tiong Bahru with its large menu, you’ll find a rotating cheese menu, main dishes, and sharing plates available. You must get a croissant while you’re at it — light, buttery and crispy, the humble pastry is done perfectly here. Don’t forget to browse their wide selection of wines, spreads and cheeses and bring a little French flavour back home with you.
Merci Marcel is at #01-68, 56 Eng Hoon Street, Singapore 160056, tel: 6224 0113.
Photo: Instagram (@mercimarcel)
Calling all book lovers, this picturesque cafe is the place you’ve been looking for. Emitting elegant English vibes, get comfy here with a good novel and some coffee against a backdrop of towering bookshelves, quirky oddities and plush couches. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to London. You may want to skip breakfast and drop in early, since it’s worth noting that their brunch offerings are very popular and affordable.
The Reading Room is at 19 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089833, tel: 6223 1608.
Photo: Instagram (@thereadingroomsg)
When you think of comfort food, does a piping hot burger and a side of fries, all washed down with a frothy milkshake come to mind? If so, you’ll have to hit up Overeasy. Featuring Instagram-ready neon signs and arcade game machines, dig into classic American fare in this picturesque diner straight out of old comic books. Take it from Overeasy: They’re “familiar, but never boring”.
Overeasy is at #01-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213, tel: 6684 1453, or #01-01 Liat Towers, 541 Orchard Road, tel: 6684 1453.
Photo: Instagram (@shakeembuns)
While going on a regular vacation can have one gain some weight (from all the yummy food you’re bound to try!), eating at this tropical-themed cafe is unlikely to. Beriwell not only serves up Bali vibes, but also healthy and deliciously fruity snacks. Grab a berry delicious signature acai soft serve with your choice of toppings ($6.90/$9.90) and enjoy the icy cold treat while hanging out at their wooden tables and rattan chairs. While you’re at it, take a photo against their coconut tree murals for that Instagram-worthy shot.
Beriwell is at #01-01, 19 East Coast Road, Singapore 428746.
Photo: Instagram (@beriwell)
The journey is as important as the destination, so hop onboard the aircraft-themed Sushi Airways. Resembling the interior of a plane, the quirky restaurant is staffed by people dressed as flight attendants, though thankfully the meals are not plane food. Dine with your head up in the clouds and choose between a mouthwatering array of sushi, sashimi, hand rolls and other Japanese dishes. If you’re up for a special treat, an Omakase degustation menu is available ($180 to $250 per pax), complete with seasonal specialty items that are freshly flown in every week.
Sushi Airways is at 20a Baghdad Street, Singapore 199659, tel: 65 6291 1151.
Photo: Instagram (@sushiairways)
Let Walking On Sunshine transport you to the Korean countryside, and feast on Western fare with a Korean twist (think Bulgogi and Mixed Bean Salad ($19.50) and Spicy Pork Panini ($17.50)) while you sit surrounded by lush floral and botanical decor, complete with rustic wooden tables. A peaceful oasis in the middle of town. Complete with an in-house hair salon, nail bar and photo studio, this may just be your squad’s next favourite hangout spot.
Walking On Sunshine is at #03-07 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, Singapore 238896, tel: 8877 8800.
Photo: Instagram (@walkingonsunshine.sg)
Dreaming of spending an idyllic getaway on one of Greece’s many gorgeous islands? Get one step closer to your dream destination and treat yourself to some authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Blu Kouzina. Gather a few friends and indulge in their plates of flavourful food, such as the Kalamaki Souvlaki ($20.80), a beef kebab served with fresh onions, sliced tomato, and pita, and the Xtapodi ($39.80), a firm yet tender grilled octopus. Made with fresh ingredients directly from Greece, you’ll definitely feel refreshed after a meal spent lounging by the lovely floor-to-ceiling windows of this white-and-blue themed eatery.
Blu Kouzina is at #01-21, Dempsey Hill, 10 Dempsey Road (Blk 10), Singapore 247700, tel: 6875 0872.
Photo: Instagram (@blukouzina)