Big Short Coffee Review: Singapore’s Hub for Innovative Brews in Joo Chiat
In the vibrant and heritage-rich neighbourhood of Joo Chiat, a coffee shop is making waves not just for its quality, but for its sheer creativity. Big Short Coffee, located on Fowlie Road, has become a must-visit destination for coffee lovers seeking an experience beyond the standard latte or flat white. With a stellar 4.7-star rating, this cafe proves that innovation, when executed with precision, is a recipe for success.
The Vibe: A Modern, Minimalist Pit Stop
Big Short Coffee offers a clean, spacious, and modern interior, providing a welcome, air-conditioned escape from Singapore’s tropical heat. The service is frequently praised as a highlight, with staff like Cashier Xianne noted for giving warm, swift, and helpful recommendations.
However, potential visitors should manage their expectations regarding seating. The setup features benches without traditional tables, reinforcing the cafe’s identity as a spot for a quick break or a takeaway order rather than a place to settle in for a long work session. As one reviewer aptly put it, it’s “good for people grab and a short break to have a slip.”
A Menu of Curiosities: The Drinks
The true star of Big Short is its beverage menu, which reads more like a craft cocktail list. The baristas here are more like “coffee mixologists,” deconstructing and reimagining what a coffee drink can be.
Happy Harry: A consistent crowd-pleaser, the Happy Harry is described as a “pretty, refreshing and delightful” concoction. It features a base of coconut water, elevated by a sweet, floral blue pea flower cream and finished with smooth osmanthus jelly. It’s a perfectly balanced, feel-good drink that wins over customers with its complexity and visual appeal.
*Duck Sht Miso:* Don’t let the provocative name deter you. This drink is a fan favourite and a testament to the cafe’s genius. The name comes from Ya Shi Xiang* (literally “Duck Shit Fragrance”), a type of Dan Cong oolong tea renowned for its beautiful floral and fruity notes, not its aroma. Big Short ingeniously blends this tea with coffee and a subtle, savoury miso cream. The result is a “thick, strong, and creamy” drink with a unique umami depth, likened to a “fusion between a coffee and a BBT, in the best possible way.”
Mont Blanc: While less detailed in the reviews, this drink is notable for the experience it provides. Baristas take the time to explain the ingredients and the proper method for enjoying it, showcasing the cafe’s commitment to craftsmanship and customer education.
Objective Analysis: A Cafe for the Adventurous Palate
Big Short Coffee has carved out a distinct niche in Singapore’s crowded cafe scene. It is not the place for a simple, no-fuss Americano. Instead, it is a beverage laboratory that challenges and delights its customers. The focus is squarely on thoughtfully constructed, multi-layered cold drinks that require attention to detail and longer preparation times.
This approach is both its greatest strength and a potential filter for its audience. Coffee purists might be hesitant, but those with an adventurous palate will find it a thrilling destination. The limited seating and grab-and-go nature of the space are not drawbacks but rather a clear indication of its purpose: to serve exceptional, innovative drinks efficiently. The overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest that for those willing to try something new, Big Short Coffee delivers an experience that is memorable and well worth the hype.
What to Order at Big Short Coffee
While the menu is seasonal, the focus is entirely on their unique beverages. The reviews do not mention a food menu, so come prepared for a liquid-centric experience.
- For a Refreshing Treat: The Happy Harry is a guaranteed hit. Its blend of coconut water, blue pea cream, and osmanthus jelly is light, floral, and perfectly sweet.
- For the Bold & Curious: The *Duck Sht Miso** is a must-try. It’s a creamy, complex, and savoury-sweet drink that perfectly encapsulates the innovative spirit of the cafe.
- For the Connoisseur: Ask about the Mont Blanc or other seasonal specials where the baristas can guide you through a unique tasting experience.
Big Short Coffee
2 Fowlie Rd, #01-01, Singapore 428505
