Glasshouse CHIJMES Review: A Sun-Drenched Brunch Haven in Singapore?

Nestled within the historic and beautiful grounds of CHIJMES, Glasshouse is a sun-drenched cafe that has become a staple for brunch lovers and coffee aficionados in Singapore. With its high ceilings, abundant natural light, and lush greenery, it lives up to its name, offering a botanical escape in the heart of the city. Boasting an impressive 4.3-star rating from over a thousand reviews, it’s clearly a crowd-pleaser. But does the experience match the aesthetic? We dive into what makes Glasshouse a go-to spot and whether it’s the right choice for your next cafe visit.

The Ambiance: A Botanical Oasis with a Buzz

The first thing that strikes you upon entering Glasshouse is the atmosphere. True to its name, the cafe is encased in glass, allowing sunlight to pour in and illuminate the space, highlighting the many plants dotted around the interior. This creates a vibrant, airy, and undeniably Instagrammable setting.

However, its popularity comes with a caveat. As noted by several visitors, the cafe can get very crowded, especially on weekends. The seating arrangement, which includes many low tables and stools, is designed to maximize space. While perfect for a quick coffee, some find these low tables less comfortable for a full dining experience, with seating that can feel “back to back.” The initial warmth from the Singapore humidity is another minor point to note, though the air conditioning does kick in after a few minutes.

Objective Analysis: The ambiance is a double-edged sword. For those seeking a lively, buzzing atmosphere in a beautiful setting, Glasshouse delivers perfectly. It’s ideal for a vibrant catch-up with friends. However, if you’re looking for a quiet, spacious, and tranquil brunch, the potential for crowds and close-quarters seating might be a drawback.

What to Eat & Drink at Glasshouse: A Culinary Breakdown

Glasshouse’s menu focuses on classic brunch fare executed with quality ingredients. The food receives consistent praise for its flavour and generous portions, though it comes with a premium price tag to match.

Typical Food & Drinks:

Avocado Toast & Bagels: This is the undeniable star of the menu. Reviewers consistently rave about the “very generous” serving of avocado on both sourdough toast and bagels. The dish is praised for being well-seasoned and is a highly recommended choice.
Weekend Specials: Keep an eye out for specials like the Halibut fish, which has been described as fresh, flavourful, and well-portioned.
Build Your Own Breakfast: For those who like to customize, this option allows you to assemble your perfect plate, though it can contribute to a higher bill.
Coffee & Lattes: The coffee is generally considered “great” and “solid.” However, for discerning coffee purists, some feel it’s “average” compared to other specialty roasters in Singapore. The Matcha Latte is a popular non-coffee option, though be aware it can have some grainy matcha sediment at the bottom and costs an extra dollar for an iced version.
Espresso Soda: An interesting and refreshing alternative to the more common espresso tonic. Described as citrusy and “sparkly,” it’s a unique drink worth trying if you’re looking for something different.

The Service: A Standout Feature

One of the most highlighted aspects of the Glasshouse experience is the service. Multiple reviews commend the staff for being accommodating and thoughtful. One patron shared a story of a friend who mistakenly ordered oat milk by itself; the staff graciously replaced it with a proper coffee without any fuss, a gesture that speaks volumes about their customer-first approach, especially in a busy cafe setting. This commitment to going above and beyond leaves a lasting positive impression.

The Verdict: Who is Glasshouse For?

Glasshouse has successfully carved out its niche as a beautiful, high-energy brunch spot with excellent service and hearty, well-made food.

You will love Glasshouse if:

You appreciate a bright, aesthetically pleasing, and photogenic cafe.
You are looking for generous portions, especially of avocado-based dishes.
You value exceptional and thoughtful customer service.
You enjoy a bustling, vibrant atmosphere for a weekend brunch with friends.

You might want to reconsider if:

You are on a tight budget, as prices are on the steeper side.
You dislike crowded or noisy environments.
You require a spacious table for a comfortable, leisurely meal.
You are a coffee connoisseur seeking the absolute best-in-class filter coffee.

Overall, Glasshouse at CHIJMES is a solid choice for a quality brunch experience in a stunning setting. While it may not be for everyone due to its popularity and pricing, its generous food and genuinely kind staff make it a gem that is well worth visiting.