Oaks Coffee Co. Upper Thomson: A Matcha Haven with a Menu of Mixed Results
Nestled along the bustling Upper Thomson Road, just a stone’s throw from the MRT, Oaks Coffee Co. presents itself as a chic, minimalist cafe with its elegant black-and-white theme. Spread across two cozy levels, it has become a go-to spot for cafe hoppers and locals alike. With a solid 4.1-star rating from over 400 reviews, it’s clearly doing something right. But a closer look reveals a tale of two very different experiences: one centered on sublime beverages and the other on a more unpredictable food menu.
The Verdict on the Brews: An Unquestionable Green Tea Paradise
If there is one reason to make a dedicated trip to Oaks, it is for their drinks. This is the cafe’s undeniable strength and a point of unanimous praise. Matcha fanatics, in particular, will find themselves at home.
Reviewers consistently describe the matcha drinks as “top-tier” and “high quality,” hitting the perfect balance between earthy bitterness and subtle sweetness. Unlike many cafes where matcha can be a disappointing, milky afterthought, Oaks delivers an intense, authentic flavour. The praise extends beyond just matcha; the Hojicha and Genmaicha Lattes also receive glowing remarks for their delicious, nutty, and roasted profiles. Even the white coffee is noted as being “great.” It’s clear that the baristas at Oaks are masters of their craft, making it a premier destination for anyone seeking a seriously good Japanese-inspired tea or coffee fix.
Navigating the Food Menu: A Journey of Hits and Misses
While the drinks menu is a straight-A student, the food menu is where things get complicated. The experience can be fantastic or a letdown, depending entirely on what you order.
The Hits:
- Croissant with Scrambled Eggs and Bacon: Lauded by a regular as a “genius creation,” the combination of a fluffy croissant, savoury bacon, and feta cheese creates a delightful mix of textures and flavours. It’s a standout dish worth trying, though be warned: multiple visitors find the scrambled eggs themselves to be dry and unremarkable, with one comparing them to a fast-food chain’s offering.
- Creme Brulee Cheesecake: For those with a sweet tooth, this dessert is a winner. Described as thick, creamy, and not overly sweet, its perfectly burnt sugar top provides a satisfying crackle.
The Misses:
Unfortunately, the list of disappointing dishes is just as specific.
- Rice Bowls (Dons): Both the Yuzu Teriyaki Salmon Don and Wagyu Beef Bowl have been criticized for having rice with hard, seemingly burnt edges. While portions are generous, the proteins were found to be overwhelmingly seasoned, leaving diners thirsty.
- Corn & Pumpkin Fritters: This dish was a significant letdown for one patron, who described the fritters as soft, unseasoned, and texturally more like pancakes. The accompanying avocado spread was marred by a sharp raw onion taste.
- Other Dishes to Approach with Caution: A loyal customer specifically advises against ordering the Charred Baby Corns, Eggs Royale, and Mala Pork Dumplings.
Analysis: Specialist Strengths, Generalist Weaknesses
Oaks Coffee Co. is a quintessential example of a specialist cafe that excels in its niche but falters when it stretches too far. The meticulous attention given to their matcha and coffee selection is evident in every cup. This is their core identity and the reason for their loyal following.
However, the extensive food menu seems to suffer from a lack of consistent execution. The dishes that work, like the inventive croissant creation, show sparks of brilliance. But the repeated criticisms of fundamental elements like well-cooked rice and seasoned eggs suggest the kitchen may be overextended. For visitors, this means ordering requires a bit of insider knowledge. You are almost guaranteed a fantastic drink, but a satisfying meal is more of a gamble. The cafe is a victim of its own ambition, offering a wide menu where a smaller, more perfected selection might lead to a better overall reputation.
What to Eat and Drink at Oaks Coffee Co.
To make the most of your visit, focus on their strengths.
- Signature Drinks: The Matcha Latte is a must-try. For something different, opt for the roasted notes of the Hojicha Latte or the toasty Genmaicha Latte.
- Recommended Food: Stick to the known winners. The Croissant with Scrambled Eggs and Bacon is a popular choice for brunch, and the Creme Brulee Cheesecake is a reliable bet for dessert.
- Ambiance: Enjoy the cozy, stylish black-and-white interior. Its proximity to the Upper Thomson MRT makes it exceptionally convenient. Be prepared for crowds during peak hours, as seating can be limited.
In conclusion, Oaks Coffee Co. is highly recommended, but with a crucial caveat: go for the drinks. Treat it as a top-tier beverage bar with a few decent snacks, rather than a full-service brunch restaurant, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a truly exceptional matcha latte and a good book. Just choose your food wisely.
