Singapore Starbucks Guide: Must‑Try Treats and Exclusive Merch
When it comes to coffee, Starbucks is the name on everyone’s lips — the world’s largest and most recognisable coffee chain.
It might seem odd to visit Starbucks while in Singapore, but that very familiarity offers a comforting sense of home. In an unfamiliar country, it can be a welcome place to relax and unwind.
This feature takes a closer look at Starbucks in Singapore — from store highlights and exclusive menu items to limited-edition merchandise — exploring what makes the experience here special.
Top Starbucks in Singapore
Starbucks now operates more than 150 outlets across Singapore. In large shopping malls near major MRT stations, the iconic green logo is almost always easy to spot.
❶ The First Starbucks on Orchard
Starbucks made its debut in Singapore in 1996, opening its first outlet at Liat Towers, just steps from the bustling Orchard Road intersection.
Beneath the logo along the street, a small sign proudly reads “1st Starbucks in Singapore.”
Renovated in 2019, the interior exudes a sleek and sophisticated atmosphere. A newly installed coffee bar sits at the back of the cafe, with nearly 100 unique pieces of cup art adorning the walls.
Set in Singapore’s premier shopping district, it’s the perfect spot to unwind amid the aroma of freshly brewed coffee — open 24 hours a day.
Starbucks Liat Towers
❷ The Starbucks at Merlion Park
A must-visit for anyone travelling to Singapore, Merlion Park is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
On the ground floor of One Fullerton — the waterfront dining complex by the park — sits the Starbucks One Fullerton store.
While the interior itself is simple, the real highlight is the spacious outdoor terrace — offering superb views of Marina Bay Sands right across the water.
While many restaurants and cafes in the area offer similar panoramic views of Marina Bay, this is the only place where you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery for just the price of a cup of coffee.
Starbucks One Fullerton
❸ Shophouse Starbucks in Chinatown
A new outlet has opened on Smith Street in Chinatown, set within a beautifully restored shophouse — a traditional building style found throughout Southeast Asia.
Amid the district’s vibrant streetscape, its pink and purple facade serves as a charming focal point.
At the entrance, a sign displays the Chinese characters “星巴克” — the Chinese name for Starbucks.
The adjacent shop is well worth a visit, offering exclusive merchandise unique to this location — perfect for picking up a special memento from Singapore.
Starbucks 37 Smith Street
❹ Colonial-style Starbucks
One of Singapore’s most beautiful Starbucks outlets sits within Rochester Park in the western suburbs, just a 7–8 minute walk from Buona Vista MRT station.
Nestled amid lush greenery, the elegant building occupies a “black-and-white bungalow” — a distinctive architectural style from Singapore’s colonial era.
Step inside to a second floor with generously spaced seating, creating a refined atmosphere with a touch of old-world charm.
Out on the balcony, terrace seating offers the perfect spot to unwind over a cup of coffee, the peaceful views of surrounding greenery providing a refreshing escape from the city’s bustle.
Starbucks Rochester Park
Menu Highlights
Favourites & Limited-Time Specials
A Starbucks staple, the Ham and Cheese Baguette (Filone) is a reliable choice for a quick yet satisfying bite.
Alternatively, the “Panwich” — a playful cross between a pancake and a sandwich — layers ham and egg between fluffy pancakes, with melted cheese oozing from the centre.
Inside the display case, a tempting selection of desserts awaits, including tiramisu, cheesecake and carrot cake.
Seasonal drinks and limited‑time bites released for holidays and special events are also worth keeping an eye out for.
Highlights include the Strawberry Cheesecake, instantly recognisable by Hello Kitty’s iconic red bow, and the Ube Cream Frappuccino, topped with a whimsical mermaid tail peeking out from the whipped cream.
Shiok-ah-ccino Annual Treat
Every August, just in time for Singapore’s National Day, the much-loved Shiok-ah-ccino makes its annual return.
The name plays on the Singlish word “shiok” — an expression that captures a sense of delight, excitement, or sheer satisfaction, especially when something tastes exceptionally good.
One of the most memorable editions arrived in 2021, inspired by the classic Southeast Asian drink Yuan Yang — a blend of coffee and tea. This version combined coffee with roasted Japanese hojicha, creating a distinctive local twist with a rich, aromatic flavour.
Perched atop the whipped cream was an adorable Bearista chocolate dressed as the Merlion.
A perfect opportunity to snap a photo with Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue.
Local Flavours Reimagined
Every year from July to August, a delightful range of “Locally Inspired Treats” arrives in stores, celebrating Singapore’s iconic flavours and nostalgic favourites.
With its striking dual layers of butterfly pea blue and pandan green, the Kueh Salat Cheesecake pays homage to the traditional Peranakan dessert Kueh Salat.
Another nostalgic gem is the Ice Cream Sandwich Cheesecake. Sandwiched between colourful layers of sponge and crisp wafers, it faithfully recreates the beloved ice cream sandwiches once sold at street-side carts across Singapore.
The Brown Sugar Boba Gem Cake, inspired by the nostalgic childhood favourite Gem Biscuits, features a soft brown sugar sponge topped with pastel‑coloured buttercream “gems”. Hidden inside are chewy boba pearls for a playful surprise.
The Ondeh Ondeh Mousse Cake offers a contemporary twist on the traditional Nyonya treat. Its light, airy pandan chiffon cake encases a luscious filling of gula melaka and shredded coconut.
These locally inspired creations breathe new life into flavours deeply etched in the memories of many Singaporeans. For visitors, they offer a wonderful chance to discover Singapore’s culinary traditions and flavours in a fresh, unexpected way — a seasonal highlight to look forward to each year.
Singapore Exclusive Merch
Starbucks in Singapore offers a wide range of merchandise, from classic favourites to seasonal releases and limited-edition collaborations.
Singapore-exclusive items also make ideal souvenirs or gifts, perfect for those seeking something distinctly local.
Been There Collection
Designed as keepsakes for travellers, the “Been There” series showcases illustrations inspired by the landmarks and distinctive character of each region or city.
The Singapore edition brings iconic sights like the Merlion, Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown to life, capturing the essence of the city in vivid detail.
The lineup includes ceramic mugs and two types of tumblers, available in both plastic and stainless steel.
These pieces make thoughtful souvenirs not only for collectors but also for visitors seeking a memento of their trip.
Merlion Bearista
The Bearista, Starbucks’ beloved mascot, is a charming bear dressed as a barista.
Alongside the classic apron version, the Bearista transformed into a Merlion is exclusive to Singapore.
The range goes beyond plush toys to include keychains, coasters, and other items.
A highlight is the limited‑edition Merlion Bearista Cookies ($24.90), presented in an irresistibly cute Bearista tin filled with two types of cookies—an appealing find for anyone who spots it in stores.
Seasonal Hits and Collabs
Seasonal releases tied to events like Halloween, Christmas, and Lunar New Year feature playful, eye-catching designs that are not to be missed.
The collaboration with BLACKPINK created a global buzz among fans and collectors.
Highly sought-after items tend to sell out quickly, so it’s best to pick them up as soon as they are available in stores.
AD
