We recently came across the most aesthetic Starbucks in Chinatown, Singapore. Located at the junction of Trengganu Street and Smith Street (where the old street food market used to be), this two storey cafe with a shop selling souvenirs is a nice spot to visit if you are looking to have a break while exploring Chinatown.
Starbucks at Smith Street in Chinatown, Singapore
We’ve visited Chinatown and passed by the junction of Smith Street and Trengganu Street numerous times, especially during festivals such as Chinese New Year.
Many times, we have looked at the building at the corner and wondered what it would be like to head upstairs to the second floor and watch the bustle of the streets of Chinatown below.
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Recently, while in Chinatown for the Mid-Autumn Festival light-up, we were surprised to discover that the building had been taken over by Starbucks.
So, after viewing the festive lights, we made our way over to the Chinatown Starbucks at Smith Street for some refreshments.
Aesthetic Starbucks in Chinatown
The Starbucks outlet at Smith Street in Chinatown occupies two floors of the building. They have even bothered to put the name “Starbucks” in Chinese on the pillars outside the building.
The ground floor is where you can place your order for drinks and food.
The ambience and design of the Starbucks is nice. There are murals painted on the wall that playfully combine the classical Chinese style with Starbucks’ figures such as the mermaid holding a branch with coffee beans set against wavy clouds and tall mountains.
After getting our drinks, we made our way upstairs. This is only accessible by a steep flight of stairs.
The upstairs sitting area is similarly decorated with beautiful paintings. There are different forms of seating available on the second floor, including a stretch along a long corridor.
The best part for us was the chance to finally look out from the second floor windows and finally get to have the experience of watching people pass by below.
Outlet-Exclusive Drinks and Food
The beverages and food at this Chinatown Starbucks are similar to what you would expect to find at any Starbucks. However, they do have some outlet-exclusive items.
Amongst the Smith Street exclusive items were the Black Sesame Oatmilk Coffee Frappucino with Soy Pudding ($9.90), Pandan Chiffon Cake ($3.90) and the Yuan Yang (Coffee & Tea) Coffee Frappuccino ($9.90).
Starbucks Shop
On the first floor, we made our way through a small passageway next to the service counter and found ourselves at the Starbucks Smith Street shop.
We were greeted by a giant Starbucks Barista Bear dressed by as a Merlion in a corner.
In addition to Starbucks mugs, the Starbucks Smith Street shop also sells merchandise like limited edition Starbucks Barista Bear plushies, as well as the Barista Bear doing a lion dance.
The Starbucks Smith Street shop can also be reached directed from Smith Street, without having to go through the Starbucks.
Starbucks Smith Street
Where: 37 Smith St, #01-01 & #02-01, Singapore 058950
Opening Hours: Open from 7.30 am to 10 pm. Extended opening hours till 12 midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
While in Chinatown, be sure to check out the various Chinatown murals that combine heritage with art. You may also be interested to read about CHAGEE Pagoda House, the brand’s first tea and retail store in Singapore.
