The Book Cafe Singapore: A Cosy Robertson Quay Haven for Readers & Foodies | Review
Nestled away from the main hustle of Robertson Quay, The Book Cafe offers a quiet sanctuary for those looking to escape into a world of literature and comforting food. With its inviting ambiance, extensive bookshelves, and a reputation as a work-friendly spot, it has garnered a strong 4.3-star rating from over 1,200 reviews. But does the food live up to the cosy atmosphere? We delve into what makes The Book Cafe a beloved institution and where it might fall short.
Ambiance: Your Home Away From Home
The primary draw of The Book Cafe is undoubtedly its atmosphere. As reviewers like Norlin Karim and Lollipui Ritt highlight, the vibe is overwhelmingly “chill” and relaxing. The interior is designed for comfort, featuring plush sofas, ample seating, and, of course, shelves lined with a diverse collection of books that guests are welcome to borrow during their stay.
This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to be. The availability of power plugs and the staff’s welcoming attitude towards guests who linger for hours with laptops or books make it a prime destination for remote workers and students. As one patron noted, they “stayed here for about 3 hours and managed to get work done,” a testament to the cafe’s accommodating nature.
An Honest Look at the Food & Drinks
The menu at The Book Cafe offers a wide range of all-day breakfast, hearty mains, and refreshing drinks. While many patrons rave about the food, a closer look at the reviews reveals a more nuanced picture.
What to Order: The Crowd-Pleasers
The cafe seems to excel at delivering comforting, flavour-packed dishes. Naomi Wong’s glowing 5-star review paints a delicious picture:
- Salmon Noodle Soup: Described as “super comforting with a rich, flavourful broth and perfectly cooked salmon.”
- Grass-Fed Steak: Praised for being “juicy, tender, and full of flavour.”
- Banana Strawberry Smoothie: A “refreshing, creamy, and naturally sweet” accompaniment.
Other highly-rated items include the simple but well-executed 3-Egg Omelette and the Pancakes with Fruits. It appears that when The Book Cafe focuses on wholesome, hearty fare, it hits the mark with consistency and quality. Don’t forget to grab some of their take-away cookies, which are reportedly “yummy!”
Objective Analysis: A Tale of Two Menus
While the comfort food receives high praise, classic brunch fare can be inconsistent. Saloni Chandra’s 3-star review points to a “forgettable” Eggs Royale, where the portion felt small and the hollandaise sauce lacked flavour. The accompanying potato rosti was noted as “under cooked and over salted.”
This suggests a potential divide in the kitchen’s strengths. It seems that for a guaranteed satisfying meal, visitors should lean towards the comforting mains, soups, and steaks rather than the more technical brunch classics like Eggs Benedict. While the prices are noted as being on the “steeper end,” many, like reviewer “khrhms,” feel the generous portions and quality of the better dishes justify the cost.
Typical Food and Drinks at The Book Cafe
If you’re planning a visit, here’s a snapshot of what you can expect on the menu:
- All-Day Breakfast: A staple offering, featuring classics like the 3-Egg Omelette, Pancakes with Fruits, and Eggs Royale with Salmon.
- Hearty Mains: For a more substantial meal, the Grass-Fed Steak and the wholesome Salmon Noodle Soup are highly recommended.
- Beverages: A selection of Iced Coffees are perfect for a caffeine fix, while fresh fruit Smoothies like the Banana Strawberry offer a healthier, refreshing option.
- Baked Goods: The cafe offers a selection of baked treats, with their Cookies being a popular choice for a take-away snack.
The Verdict: A Haven with a Hearty Menu
The Book Cafe has successfully carved out a niche for itself as more than just a place to eat. It is a community hub, a quiet workspace, and a reader’s paradise all rolled into one. The service is consistently lauded as friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive experience.
Who should visit?
- Book lovers, students, and remote workers: Absolutely. This is your ideal spot. The combination of a quiet atmosphere, free-to-read books, and available power sockets is unmatched.
- Foodies: Yes, but order wisely. Skip the potentially average brunch items and head straight for the comforting mains like the steak or salmon noodle soup for a truly satisfying meal.
Ultimately, The Book Cafe’s charm lies in the complete package. It’s a place where the quality of the environment is just as important as the quality of the food. While not every dish may be a showstopper, its standout meals and unparalleled ambiance make it a cherished and highly recommended spot in the heart of Singapore.
The Book Cafe
20 Martin Rd, #01-02 Seng Kee Building, Singapore 239070
