Walkable Foodie Haven: Cafe Hopping in Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru is rapidly becoming one of Singapore’s most delightful neighborhoods for food enthusiasts and cafe lovers. Its charming streets and art deco architecture provide the perfect setting for a leisurely day of exploration, and the area’s walkability makes it ideal for discovering hidden gems and hopping from one cafe to another. During a recent visit, we explored two standout cafes that embody the vibrant cafe culture of Tiong Bahru: Hello Arigatou and Drips Bakery x Sakanoue Café. At Hello Arigatou, we sampled their signature tamago sando and the strawberry matcha cloud. The tamago sando was everything you’d want in a Japanese egg sandwich — soft, fluffy bread encasing a thick, creamy omelette that was light, comforting, and perfectly seasoned. The strawberry matcha cloud was a delightful drink topped with airy foam, blending the fresh sweetness of strawberry with the earthy notes of matcha in a refreshingly elegant way. This cafe excels in showcasing simple yet impeccably executed flavors. Just a short walk away, Drips Bakery’s collaboration with Japan’s Sakanoue Café offered the limited-time Matcha Strawberry Field Kakigori — a stunning and indulgent dessert that felt like a slice of Tokyo in Tiong Bahru. This kakigori featured ultra-fine shaved ice made from premium Kuramoto Ice, layered with juicy strawberries, topped with creamy matcha espuma, and drizzled with rich matcha sauce. Each bite was a harmonious mix of textures and flavors — light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between fruity sweetness and matcha’s subtle bitterness. Tiong Bahru’s walkability and relaxed atmosphere make exploring these cafes even more enjoyable. With an array of cafes, boutique shops, and street art scattered throughout the neighborhood, it’s easy to wander from one spot to the next, soaking in the ambiance while savoring some of Singapore’s finest artisanal treats. Whether you’re craving comforting Japanese sandwiches, beautifully crafted beverages, or delicate Japanese-inspired desserts, Tiong Bahru’s cafe scene offers something to delight every taste — and the friendly, walkable streets make the experience truly unforgettable.