Main Street Commissary Review: Your Guide to this Jalan Besar Coffee Haven
Nestled away from the main bustle on Rowell Road, Main Street Commissary is a spacious, industrial-chic cafe that has carved out a niche in Singapore’s vibrant Jalan Besar neighbourhood. With a strong focus on quality coffee and a no-frills atmosphere, it attracts a steady stream of caffeine seekers and those looking for a quiet corner. But does the food and service live up to the standard of its brews? We dive into what makes this hidden spot tick.
The Atmosphere: Spacious, Simple, and a Little Raw
Stepping into Main Street Commissary, the first thing you’ll notice is the space. It’s a welcome departure from the often-cramped cafes in Singapore, offering “plenty of tables” in a bright, open-plan layout. This makes it an excellent choice for groups or individuals wanting to settle in with a laptop.
However, the minimalist aesthetic can border on stark. As one visitor noted, the “decor feels neglected.” The vibe is functional over fashionable, prioritizing space and light above ornate design. While many appreciate the “calm, relaxed vibe,” others have pointed out a lack of background music, which can be replaced by the “incessant noise from one of the equipment.” It’s a place that feels authentic and unpretentious, but those seeking a polished, cozy ambience might find it wanting.
The Main Event: Coffee That Hits the Mark
Where Main Street Commissary truly shines is its coffee program. The cafe is clearly run by people who are passionate about their beans. Reviewers consistently praise the coffee, with the “magic coffee” – a punchy two shots with 5oz of milk – earning a special mention for being “perfect.” Lattes are described as “nicely balanced,” and the availability of dairy alternatives like oat, almond, and soy milk is a modern cafe essential that they deliver on.
While the espresso-based drinks are a clear winner, filter coffee enthusiasts may want to temper their expectations, as one review found the flavours “really muted.” For non-coffee drinkers, the “iced roasted matcha tea” and unique “hot black sesame latte” offer delicious alternatives.
Objective Analysis: Main Street Commissary positions itself as a coffee-first establishment. The care and quality poured into their espresso drinks are evident from customer feedback. It’s a reliable destination for a serious coffee fix, especially for those who appreciate a stronger, well-crafted cup.
What About the Food? A Tale of Hits and Misses
The food menu at Main Street Commissary presents a more varied experience. While some dishes receive high praise, others fall short, suggesting some inconsistency.
The Hits:
- Sesame Cake: Hailed by one reviewer as “the best I’ve had so far.”
- Breakfast for Champions: A hearty and “surprisingly filling” platter, even when substitutions like avocado for hash browns are necessary.
- Açaí Bowl & Banana Loaf: Classic cafe staples that are well-executed and satisfying.
The Misses:
- Sriracha Chicken Brioche: Criticized for its “frozen then boiled” tasting chicken and lack of flavour beyond the spice.
- Roast Chicken Soba: Described simply as “a miss.”
- Add-on Chicken: When added to pasta, the chicken was found to be “bland.”
Objective Analysis: The food seems to be a secondary focus to the coffee. While you can certainly find a satisfying meal here, it’s not a guaranteed culinary highlight. The simpler, classic cafe fare like pastries and breakfast platters appears to be the safer and more rewarding choice. The occasional unavailability of menu items also suggests that it’s best to go with a flexible mindset.
A Taste of Singapore’s Cafe Culture
Main Street Commissary’s menu is a snapshot of Singapore’s modern cafe scene. Here’s what’s typical:
- Specialty Coffee: The focus on specific coffee styles like “magic coffee” and flat whites is a hallmark of the city-state’s third-wave coffee movement. Singaporeans have a sophisticated palate for coffee, and cafes like this cater to that demand.
- Brunch Staples: The presence of açaí bowls, hearty breakfast platters, and various toasts reflects the deeply ingrained brunch culture. Weekend brunch is a popular social activity, and these dishes are essential offerings.
- Asian-Fusion Flavours: Incorporating ingredients like matcha, black sesame, and soba into a Western-style cafe menu is distinctly Singaporean. This fusion creates unique offerings that appeal to local tastes while providing a familiar cafe framework.
The Final Verdict
Main Street Commissary is a solid choice for a specific type of cafe-goer: the coffee purist who values a good brew and ample space over polished interiors and gourmet food. It’s an excellent spot to work, read, or catch up with a friend if you’re in the Jalan Besar area. The pricing is reasonable, and the atmosphere is relaxed.
However, if you’re making a special trip for a memorable meal or expect warm, effusive service, your experience might be mixed. The service, described by some as “good” and others as “curt and impersonal,” points to a straightforward, no-fuss approach. Go for the coffee, stay for the space, and consider the food a bonus.
Main Street Commissary
81 Rowell Rd, Singapore 208014
Rating: 4.6
Rated count: 430
