These cafes and brunch spots in Singapore prove that the west side is indeed the best side

Is the east side really the best side? We beg to differ. These cafes and brunch spots in the west of Singapore are serving up some serious competition, and we’re here for it.

Sure, when hunting for cafes and brunch spots in Singapore, we naturally think of neighbourhoods like Joo Chiat, Katong, and Tanjong Pagar, and for good reason. These east-side neighbourhoods are packed with homegrown favourites serving up hearty all-day breakfasts and artisanal coffees. But don’t overlook the west side, as it also has its own lineup of charming hideaways.

In the west, cafes are often tucked within residential enclaves and unexpected corners, so you’ll want to venture off the usual map (we promise it’ll be worth it).

While Micro Bakery is a Joo Chiat favourite, its story began right in the west at Serene Centre. The bakery has grown since its early days — swing by today and find fresh bakes stealing the show, alongside brunch staples that are sure to leave you satisfied.

Craving a hearty sandwich? The west has you covered with indulgent options at Breakfast Grill, where sammies are generously stuffed. Meanwhile, Hunbun serves up playful sandwiches stacked with inventive fillings that are both considered and crave-worthy (plus, they’re sure to hit your protein goals). Then there is Wheathead, which dreams up baked goods that are rich and satisfying, like its ridiculously addictive banana cream pie.

So, if you’re on the hunt for new cafes in Singapore, it’s time to head west. Here are some to get you started.

Best cafes and brunch spots in the west of Singapore

Micro Bakery 

Micro Bakery’s original Serene Centre outlet has expanded, following the mall’s latest refurbishment. Now, along with its beloved daily selection of fresh bread and bakes, the bakery serves up all-day brunch fare. Visit early to get a seat and take your pick from its options, ranging from Smoked Salmon Tartine to Mushroom Grilled Flatbread. For sweets, you have options such as the Blueberry Ricotta Toast, a seasonal favourite comprising house ricotta, fresh blueberries, blueberry jam, and butter crumble on toast. 

Address: 10 Jln Serene, #01-03 Serene Centre, Singapore 258748
Website here.

Wheathead

Don’t overlook this small batch bakery as it consistently draws queues each day for its pies, bakes, and sandwiches. Its Banana Cream Pie is a must-try — highly addictive, this slice sees a flaky buttery crust layered with earthy caramel, sliced bananas, vanilla bean pastry cream, and whipped cream. It’s light, creamy, and everything you’d want in a banana cream pie. Visit early to get your share, or pre-order in advance (at least two days notice needed) to avoid disappointment as it sells out quickly.

Balance this sweet creation with something savoury like the Spicy Mortadella Sandwich that’s complete with housemade spicy pepperoncini and mascarpone. The bakery does regular collaborations too, including Glug Glug, Maxi Coffee Bar, and SGBrisket Kitchen, where they serve up exclusive creations. 

Address: 8 Slim Barracks Rise, #01-01, Singapore 138492
Website here.

Breakfast Grill

You haven’t seen a packed sandwich until you’ve been to Breakfast Grill. Find a selection of decadent sandwiches like the BFF, a fan favourite that sees beer-battered halibut, house-made remoulade, and American nacho cheese sandwiched between fluffy brioche. Not a fan of fish in your sandwiches? The Cali is another popular choice, complete with spicy lean beef.

Beyond sandwiches, the cafe also serves up brunch fare. The Mentaiko Udon is an outlet-exclusive and made for sharing, with udon and fresh prawns glazed in a house-made mentaiko sauce topped with tobiko and three cheeses. Meanwhile, the Scallop Rigatoni is a fiery number that’s complete with beef pepperoni and a spicy tomato and cream sauce.

Address: 19 Lor Kilat, #01-02, Singapore 598120
Website here. 

Atlas Coffeehouse

This cafe along Bukit Timah has been garnering long queues since it opened 10 years ago. Find a selection of brunch favourites like the Chorizo, Eggs & Avo, a take on the classic avocado toast, elevated with spicy pork chorizo. Visit from 11 am and dig into larger plates, like the Atlas Chicken & Biscuits featuring a juicy roasted chicken thigh, Steak-Hash paired with sunny eggs and a house green sauce, and Cereal Prawn Pasta.

Those with a sweet tooth can satisfy their cravings with the Smoked Brûlée French Toast that’s complete with smoked butter, tangy cherry compote and maple syrup. Or, go for the Candied Bacon Waffles featuring its fluffy buttermilk waffles topped with sweet candied bacon and vanilla ice cream.

Address: 6 Duke’s Rd, Singapore 268886
Website here. 

Simply Bread

Aptly named, this spot is loved for its fresh breads and bakes. Visit for a simple, yet satisfying meal, with options like the GHC (grilled ham and cheese), Garlic Bread, and Sticky Bun. The latter is a signature that sees a soft and fluffy cinnamon roll packed with cinnamon and finished with a thick glaze. Heartier dishes are available too, including the Tomato Soup, Caesar Salad, and Shakshouka.

Address: 1 Fifth Ave., #01-03 Guthrie House, Singapore 268802
Instagram here. 

Whisk & Paddle

If you feel peckish after exploring Bukit Gombak Park, step outside and find Whisk & Paddle, a cafe serving up all-day breakfast and hearty meals. When it comes to savouries, find plates like the braised chicken leg with onion and gruyere cheese, snapper fish and chips, and duck and lychee pizza. For something sweet instead, go for the French toast topped with butter and maple syrup, or the warm chocolate cake layered with rich fudge.

Address: 816 Bukit Batok West Ave. 5, #01-01, Singapore 659089
Website here. 

Flagwhite

Find Australian-inspired comfort fare at this pet-friendly cafe. You’ll have options like the Flagwhite Beef Burger layered with streaky bacon and barbecue aioli, Chicken Parmigiana with a side of fries, and Crispy Garlic Parmesan Wings. But, if you can’t decide what to get, make your own brunch plate and take your pick from its choice of bread, eggs, and toppings. Pair your favourites with a cup of coffee made from Paradise Coffee Beans before indulging in sweets by Keong Saik Bakery.

Address: 106 Jln Jurong Kechil, Singapore 598604
Website here. 

No Horse Run Cafe

While No Horse Run’s Yishun outlet is known and loved for its unique gelato scoops, Ang Mo Kio cafe offers so much more than decadent desserts. Find its all-day breakfast and brunch offerings like the Fried Chicken waffle paired with a fried egg and maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Other standouts include Fish & Chips, Eggs Benedict, and Carbonara.

Address: Blk 202 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, #01-1682, Singapore 560202
Instagram here. 

Hunbun

While not necessarily a cafe, you won’t regret checking out Hunbun while you’re venturing in the west. Led by husband-wife duo, find Hunbun hidden within Bukit Timah Plaza’s Eight AM coffeeshop. Here, hearty sandwiches are in the spotlight, with each generously packed with ingredients ranging from mushrooms and caramelised onions to fried chicken thigh and pineapple jam. Protein takes priority here, with sandwiches packing up to 53 grams of it.

Try the Chick Me Out, that’s layered with succulent chicken thigh, pesto, caramelised onion, and cheese sandwiched between focaccia — with 49 grams of protein, whoever said protein-rich meals had to be boring? You’ll want to pair your sammies with their sides that are just as delectable — go for the Brocc n Roll or dig into its creamed spinach protein dip instead.

Address: 1 Jalan Anak Bukit, B1-47, Singapore 588996
Instagram here. 

(Hero and featured image credit: Flagwhite / Facebook and @breakfastgrill/Instagram)