Generation Coffee Roasters (Tekka) Review: Artisanal Coffee in a Hawker Centre?

Is Singapore’s Best-Value Specialty Coffee Hiding in Tekka Market?

In the vibrant, bustling heart of Tekka Market—a place synonymous with fragrant biryani and colourful textiles—a modern coffee stall is quietly brewing a revolution. Generation Coffee Roasters brings the precision and passion of specialty coffee to the unpretentious setting of a hawker centre, promising café-quality brews at prices that won’t break the bank. But does it live up to the hype? We dove into the reviews and the experience to find out.

The Vibe: Modern Brews in a Heritage Setting

Stepping up to Generation Coffee Roasters feels different. Unlike a traditional kopi stall, you’re greeted by the sight of a sleek, professional espresso machine and the sound of beans being freshly ground for each order. It’s a touch of café theatre in an unexpected place.

Founded in 2020, this original Tekka outlet has become a blueprint for success, with the brand expanding across Singapore. Reviewers frequently praise the friendly and attentive service, a standout feature in a fast-paced hawker environment. As one customer, James Wong, noted, the staff’s attention to detail—like wiping a small coffee stain off his cup before serving—was enough to win him over as a new regular. This commitment to service elevates the entire experience from a simple transaction to a moment of genuine hospitality.

On The Menu: Analysing the Signature Drinks

Generation Coffee’s menu is concise but thoughtfully curated, focusing on well-executed classics and popular modern creations.

Classic Espresso Drinks (from $3.90): Offerings like the Latte, Flat White, and Cappuccino are priced at a remarkable $3.90. Made with freshly pulled espresso, they represent incredible value for money, bringing third-wave coffee culture to the masses.
Dirty Matcha ($4.30): A clear crowd-pleaser. One reviewer described it as a “nice balance of espresso and matcha,” where the rich, earthy matcha is complemented by the roasted depth of the coffee. It’s a smooth, complex drink that successfully marries two distinct, bold flavours.
Spanish Latte ($4.30): A popular choice for those who enjoy a sweeter, creamier latte. However, one review mentioned it was “more on the bitter side,” suggesting it may be less sweet than versions found elsewhere. This could be a plus for those who prefer their coffee robust and not overly sugary.
Matcha Latte ($3.80): This drink received mixed feedback. While one patron found it “smooth, milky, and easy to drink,” another was less impressed, noting the matcha seemed to be pre-made and squeezed from a bottle. This inconsistency is a point of contention and something to be aware of if you are a matcha purist.
Kopi-O: For the traditionalists, the stall also serves local-style coffee. One reviewer found it to be one of the better versions in the area but cautioned that it was too sweet. Pro-tip: Remember to ask for siew dai (less sugar) if you prefer a less sweet cup.

Objective Analysis: The Verdict on Generation Coffee Roasters

Generation Coffee Roasters is more than just a coffee stall; it’s a brilliant case study in market innovation. By placing high-quality, artisanal coffee in an accessible, high-traffic hawker setting, they have successfully bridged the gap between two distinct coffee cultures in Singapore.

The Good:

Unbeatable Value: Getting a freshly brewed latte or flat white for under $4 is an exceptional deal in Singapore’s expensive café scene.
Excellent Service: The friendly, detail-oriented service is consistently highlighted and sets a high standard for hawker stalls.
Quality Coffee Core: The espresso-based drinks are the star of the show, delivering on the promise of quality at an affordable price.

Areas for Improvement:

Inconsistency: The primary criticism revolves around inconsistency. This was noted in the drink volume for an iced mocha and the preparation method for the matcha latte. While potentially isolated incidents or growing pains, it’s a crucial area for the brand to address to maintain its reputation for quality across all items on its menu.

Ultimately, Generation Coffee Roasters is a resounding success. It delivers on its core promise of affordable, artisanal coffee served with heart. While there may be minor inconsistencies with some of the non-core drinks, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. It’s a must-visit for any coffee lover looking for a quality brew without the café price tag.

Beyond Coffee: What to Eat and Drink at Tekka Market

A trip to Generation Coffee is incomplete without exploring the culinary treasures of Tekka Market. After grabbing your brew, immerse yourself in one of Singapore’s most diverse food centres.

Typical Food:
- Biryani: Tekka Market is famous for its Dum Biryani. Head to legendary stalls like Allauddin’s Biryani or Yakader for a plate of fragrant, spiced rice served with tender mutton or chicken.
- Indian Rojak: A Singaporean favourite, this dish features a variety of fried fritters, potatoes, and tofu that you dip into a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.
- Dosai (Thosai): Find a stall serving up these large, crispy South Indian crepes made from fermented batter. They are typically served with sambar and chutneys.
Typical Drinks:
- Teh Tarik: The perfect companion to a spicy meal, this “pulled” milk tea is frothy, sweet, and comforting.
- Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink, available sweet or salted. A mango lassi is the perfect way to cool down after a flavourful meal.
- Sugarcane Juice: Freshly pressed sugarcane juice, often with a squeeze of lemon or lime, is a classic hawker centre thirst-quencher.