Highlander Coffee Espresso Bar Review: A Kampong Bahru Gem for Coffee and Sandwiches
Discover why this cozy, long-standing cafe in Kampong Bahru earns rave reviews for its expertly crafted coffee and unforgettable sandwiches.
Nestled along the charming stretch of Kampong Bahru Road, Highlander Coffee Espresso Bar stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of quality, passion, and simplicity. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 235 reviews, this unpretentious spot has cultivated a loyal following. It’s not a place of fleeting trends, but a haven for those who appreciate the craft of a perfect cup of coffee and a truly satisfying sandwich.
The Atmosphere: A Cozy, Homey Retreat
Stepping into Highlander Coffee feels like visiting a friend’s welcoming home. The ambiance is consistently described by patrons as “cozy,” “chill,” and “laid-back.” It’s an intimate space, which contributes to its charm but, as one reviewer noted, can feel “a bit cramped” during peak hours. This minor trade-off, however, is part of what makes it a genuine shophouse cafe experience—a small, bustling hub of warmth and wonderful aromas. The focus here isn’t on expansive, minimalist interiors but on creating a comfortable nook for you to enjoy your food and drink.
The Stars of the Show: Exceptional Coffee and Hearty Sandwiches
While the vibe is a major draw, the food and drinks are what truly make Highlander Coffee shine.
Coffee Craftsmanship
As the name suggests, coffee is a serious business here. Reviewers praise the Long Black for being “smooth” and “light-bodied yet pack[ed] with a distinctive fragrant coffee flavour.” The Piccolo Latte also receives accolades, proving the baristas have a masterful handle on their espresso-based drinks.
Analysis: Highlander isn’t just another cafe; it’s one of Singapore’s pioneer specialty coffee roasters. They source and roast their own beans, which elevates their coffee from simply good to exceptional. This deep-rooted expertise means every cup is brewed with a level of care and knowledge that is immediately apparent, offering a consistently high-quality experience that has stood the test of time in Singapore’s competitive cafe scene.
Legendary Sandwiches
The sandwiches at Highlander are a recurring highlight and, for many, the main reason to visit. Reviewer Ray Sim awards the Toasted Tuna Sandwich a perfect 5/5, describing it as “crispy, soft, refreshing, and flavourful all at one bite.” The praise is echoed for the Grilled Tuna Melt, lauded for its perfectly toasted bread and balanced filling.
Other popular choices that have customers “working my way through the entire menu” include:
- Zesty Cajun Chicken: A tasty option served on multi-grain bread.
- Prime Pastrami Pleasure: A classic deli-style favorite.
- Scrumptious Sunrise & Magic Mayo Chicken Munch: More creative and beloved concoctions.
The ability to choose different types of bread and the generous, “fulfilling” portions make these sandwiches a standout meal, not just a light snack.
The Heart of Highlander: Warm and Genuine Service
What truly cements Highlander’s status as a neighborhood gem is its hospitality. One visitor was touched when the staff, worried she might not finish her generous sandwich, preemptively offered a takeout box. This small, thoughtful gesture speaks volumes. The staff are described as “heartwarming,” providing a level of personal care that makes customers feel genuinely valued and eager to return.
Local Flavours and Cafe Culture
While Highlander’s menu features classic Western cafe fare, it’s a proud participant in Singapore’s vibrant third-wave coffee culture. In a city where the coffee scene ranges from traditional kopi (local coffee with condensed milk) served at hawker centres to hyper-modernist cafes, Highlander occupies a sweet spot. It offers expertly brewed specialty coffee without pretense, focusing purely on flavour and quality.
The food, particularly the hearty sandwiches, serves as a perfect, comforting meal for the office workers and residents in the surrounding Tanjong Pagar and Outram Park areas. It represents the modern Singaporean’s palate, which embraces both local heritage food and high-quality international cuisine with equal enthusiasm.
Typical Food & Drink at Highlander:
- Coffee: Expect a full menu of espresso-based drinks made from their in-house roasted beans. The Long Black and Piccolo Latte are highly recommended.
- Sandwiches: The star of the food menu. The Tuna Melt/Toasted Tuna and Zesty Cajun Chicken are customer favorites.
- Smoothies: A refreshing and healthy option to pair with a sandwich.
Final Verdict
Highlander Coffee Espresso Bar is a resounding success because it excels at the fundamentals. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks, but on the timeless combination of expertly prepared coffee, delicious and substantial food, and genuinely warm service. Its cozy, if compact, space fosters a sense of community and comfort that keeps people coming back.
If you’re seeking an authentic cafe experience where the quality of the product speaks for itself, look no further. It’s the perfect spot for a flavour-packed lunch, a serious coffee break, or simply a moment of comfort in a bustling city.
