Assembly Coffee

Set up by two former baristas of Strangers' Reunion and Department of Caffeine, Assembly Coffee is part of the third wave coffee movement (that is, they focus on specialty coffee) and serves java made from beans by local roastery Liberty Coffee.

What's good: Latte and espresso aside (prices start from $3.50), try their salted caramel waffles ($11.50) and pulled pork sandwich ($14.90).

My Awesome Café

This super vintage-looking gem took over a former TCM clinic and its owners—a bunch of friends and entrepreneurs from different industries—did the right thing by keeping the old-school vibe in check with its rustic features and industrial-chic decor.

What's good: My Awesome Salad ($15), which comes with herb-marinated chicken, smoked salmon, duck rillettes, avocado, boiled egg, cheese and loads more. There's also the duck rillette sandwich ($14). Wash it all down with a latte ($4.50) or a "Mexican" coca cola ($5).

November8

This cozy little joint in the ever-changing Upper Thomson area (very quietly) opened late last year. Spacious, inviting, free Wi-Fi—it's a great spot to chill out at any day of the week.

What's good: Potato rosti ($16), complete with scrambled eggs, bacon and pork sausage. For drinks, order either a hazelnut latte ($5.50) or mocha ($5.50).

One Man Coffee

Another spot on Upper Thomson, One Man Coffee shares its space with Crust Gourmet Pizza Bar. They offer seasonal espresso blends and single-origin beans from Melbourne's Axil Coffee Roasters, as well as from local roasters. Food menu's pretty limited (about seven all-day breakfast items) but quality's solid. 

What's good: Brioche French toast with homemade berry compote and candied walnuts ($10). Pair it with a cup of mocha ($5.50).

Roosevelt's Diner & Bar

Café by day and diner and bar by night, this all-rounder in the Outram Park area has a pretty extensive menu, leaving you spoilt for choice. There's really all sorts on offer, from all-day breakfast and pasta to cocktails and coffee. 

What's good: Baby back ribs ($21), Teddy's 100% US beef burger ($20) and the salted caramel milkshake ($8).

Simply Eden

A takeaway joint serving up light bites like sandwiches, tarts, scones and other treats such as freshly baked bread, handmade chocolates and other desserts.

What's good: Red velvet muffins ($3.90), and their signature roast coffee (from $3.90)—a medium-roast blend of Sumatran, Guatemalan and Colombian.

Stirling Highway

Also part of the third wave coffee movement is Stirling Highway. Launched by a young couple, this outlet is all about freshly made grub, artisanal teas and simple, fuss-free dining—with a couple of pleasant twists here and there, of course.

What's good: Pulled pork pancakes served with Jack Daniel's maple syrup ($14). There's an array of gourmet teas to try as well—go for the ice wine tea (from $5.50) or the sakura cherry rose white tea (from $5.50).

Tolido's Espresso Nook

Run by Douglas Tan (who doubles up as head barista), the Melbourne-inspired café first opened at Singapore Science Centre before making its big move to Crawford Lane. You might find their cuppas too pretty to down though—Tan recently won third place in the Singapore Latte Art Competition, which was organized by Bettr Barista.

What's good: Rosti ($16.90), cereal bacon rolls ($9.80) and a regular latte ($5.50).   

Waffle Slayer

Sister to Strangers' Reunion and located right next door, this waffle specialist offers six sweet and two savory varieties (plus the occasional special, like the buttermilk waffles with chicken schnitzel) alongside the regular menu available over at Strangers' Reunion.

What's good: Red velvet buttermilk waffles ($14.90). Nuff' said.

WoodShed 204

The latest addition to Little India's Rangoon Road, WoodShed takes pride in its dessert and tea pairings. Currently, that's all you'll see on the menu (dessert and drinks), but note that their expanded food menu with brunch specials and finger food will start from mid-April.

What's good: Pair their red velvet cake ($6.90) with a passionfruit and apple tea ($5.90).