Equate Coffee: Discover the Best Caneles in Singapore at This Industrial Chic Cafe [Review]
Take a bite out of heaven with the best caneles served fresh in this minimalist cafe.
2023-04-17
By
Equate Coffee has been taking the city by storm since it strutted onto the scene in February 2021 at Tanjong Pagar Plaza. With its chic and minimalist aesthetic, this hipster haven has quickly gained hype and expanded to a second location at Orchard Central earlier this year – all in less than two years since the brand’s debut.
Equate Coffee – Tanjong Pagar
The Atmosphere
Equate Coffee’s flagship location in Tanjong Pagar has garnered a reputation for itself thanks to its carefully curated interior design that strikes the perfect balance between minimalism and chicness.
The place is quite petite, featuring an elongated rustic coffee counter, and the seating area is on the other end. There aren’t many seats. The unfinished concrete and white walls, reminiscent of a cave, are juxtaposed with clean, sleek lines that create an ambience of refined simplicity.
The Coffee & Pastries
Why spend a fortune on overpriced coffee when you can enjoy Equate Coffee’s delicious brews without breaking the bank? The coffeehouse offers an affordable and satisfying cup of black or white coffee starting at $5.5.
And if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to their decadent Mocha or Dirty Matcha for just $5.50 or $8 respectively.
The white coffee at this joint packs a punch with its full-bodied, nutty flavour that perfectly complements the sweetness of the milk. That being said, the black did have a bit of an acidic kick which may not be everyone’s favourite.
A standout pastry at Equate Coffee is their house-baked canelés ($4), famed as some of the best in Singapore. The crispy exterior and caramelized crust give way to a moist, flavorful centre, which goes great alongside some coffee.
Not a fan of canelés? The classic pastry fare of buttery Croissants ($4) and flaky Cinnamon Rolls ($5.80) are also popular among foodies.
Equate Coffee regularly collaborates with other local artisanal bakeries and cafes to provide limited-edition treats. Previous creations include Sour Cream Croissants, Banana Bread, and Boluo Liusha Croissants.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (Mon-Fri), 8 AM to 3 PM (Sat)
Equate Coffee – Orchard Road
The Atmosphere
Equate Coffee opened its second outlet at Orchard Central in 2023. This new concept store is a bold visual experience inspired by an upside-down world, with the centrepiece of the decor being an installation of uprooted trees planted upside down.
The Orchard Central location is branded as an experiential space where coffee meets art, creating an immersive environment for customers to appreciate the unique combination of the two.
The Expanded Menu & Great Bakes
Equate Coffee at Orchard Central has expanded its menu to include all-day breakfast and brunch options, such as Shakshuka ($13.80) served with house-made sourdough bread, the sous-vide Chicken Roulade ($14.80), and an innovative sweet-and-savoury Open Face Breakfast(featuring a toasted cinnamon roll paired with scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, creamed spinach, bacon, and parmesan cheese) for $13.80.
While the mains are undoubtedly tasty, they are somewhat overshadowed by the cafe’s delectable pastries. Nonetheless, they remain excellent choices for those seeking a heartier meal.
This outlet boasts a broader selection of pastry choices than the first location, all freshly made in-house daily. Indulge in an Ondeh Croissant ($7.80) filled with delectable gula melaka ganache, savour the rich flavours of the Hazelnut Chocolatine ($7.80), or opt for the classic Pain Au Chocolat ($5.80), one of our editor’s favourite, with its light, flaky croissant and bittersweet chocolate cream.
Both Equate Coffee outlets are located within plazas (Tanjong Pagar Plaza & Orchard Central), where you can find paid parking or redeem free parking with qualified expenses.
Are there any food options available at Equate Coffee?
Yes, Equate Coffee offers a range of light bites and pastries. The Orchard Central outlet has a more extended menu that includes main dishes and brunches. Some popular items include caneles, croissants, and cinnamon rolls.
Does Equate Coffee have vegan or dairy-free options?
Yes, Equate Coffee offers plant-based milk options such as oat and soy milk for an extra $1.
Our reviews and recommendations are honest and not influenced by compensation or sponsorship. We do not receive payment or free products for positive reviews, unless stated otherwise. Any compensation or products received for reviews will be disclosed in the relevant post.