Spring Coffee Review: A Hidden Matcha Haven in Singapore’s Hong Lim Complex
Tucked away on the second floor of the bustling Hong Lim Complex, Spring Coffee is a serene sanctuary that has quickly become a word-of-mouth (and TikTok) sensation. It stands in stark contrast to the lively hawker centre below, offering a quiet, minimalist escape for those in search of exceptional matcha and a moment of peace. But does it live up to the viral hype? We take a closer look.
The Ambiance: An Urban Oasis in the Heart of Chinatown
The first thing you notice about Spring Coffee is the atmosphere. Described by visitors as having “zen vibes,” the café is a masterclass in minimalist design. Soft lighting, clean lines, and a calm, quiet environment create an immediate sense of tranquility. This is no small feat, given its location within one of Singapore’s busiest hubs.
Objective Analysis: The decision to create such a peaceful space is a brilliant strategic move. While the ground floor of Hong Lim Complex caters to the fast-paced lunch crowd, Spring Coffee targets a different need: a place to decompress. The owner’s passion, mentioned in several reviews, is palpable in the curated experience. It’s not just a coffee shop; it’s a purposefully designed retreat, making it a destination in its own right, not just a convenient stop. This intentionality is what elevates it from a simple café to a memorable experience.
The Drinks: Is the Matcha Really That Good?
Spring Coffee has built its reputation on its matcha, and for good reason. The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Strawberry Matcha Latte, a visually stunning and perfectly balanced concoction that has flooded social media feeds. The creamy, earthy notes of high-grade matcha are beautifully complemented by the natural sweetness of strawberry puree.
However, the quality runs deeper than just one drink. Patrons consistently praise the matcha’s quality across the board—from the Matcha Cold Brew to the Dirty Matcha. Reviews highlight its “thick” consistency and “deep green colour,” signs of authentic, high-quality powder that is properly prepared. For coffee lovers, the Espresso Tonic is a popular choice, praised for its refreshing and bright take on a classic espresso drink.
Opinion: The focus on perfecting a few key offerings, especially matcha, is what sets Spring Coffee apart. In a market saturated with cafes, specialising and executing with excellence creates a loyal following. While one review noted the Pistachio Latte could have a stronger flavour and be served hotter, the overwhelming consensus points to a high standard of quality, particularly for their signature matcha and coffee creations.
Pastries and Bites
To accompany the drinks, Spring Coffee offers a small but delightful selection of cakes and pastries. The Strawberry Matcha Cookie is a standout, described as “soft yet chewy” and not overly sweet, making it a perfect partner to an earthy drink. The Blueberry Lemon Cake has also received praise for its moist texture and bright flavour. The acceptance of CDC vouchers is a thoughtful touch that makes it more accessible to the local community.
What to Eat and Drink Nearby: The Hong Lim Food Centre Experience
One of the best parts about visiting Spring Coffee is its location. It sits atop the legendary Hong Lim Food Centre, home to some of Singapore’s most beloved hawker stalls. This creates a perfect “best of both worlds” opportunity.
Before or after your coffee break, dive into the culinary treasures on the first floor. You can’t go wrong with a soul-warming bowl from the Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded Ah Heng Curry Chicken Bee Hoon Mee or a plate of wok-hei-rich noodles from Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee. Having a hearty, traditional Singaporean meal followed by a specialty matcha latte upstairs is an experience that perfectly encapsulates the city’s diverse food culture.
The Final Verdict
Spring Coffee is more than just a trend. It’s a thoughtfully crafted space that delivers on its promise of quality and tranquility. It’s the ideal spot for matcha connoisseurs, anyone needing a quiet corner to work or read, or foodies looking to cap off a hawker feast with a top-tier modern beverage. Its success lies in its understanding of what city dwellers crave: a genuine escape and a product made with passion.
Getting There: A helpful tip from fellow visitors: to find the cafe easily, use Exit F or E from the Chinatown MRT station, as Google Maps can sometimes be misleading by directing you to Exit G.
Spring Coffee
531 Upper Cross St, #02-60 Hong Lim Complex, Singapore 050531
