Yes, we live on an island. But it sure as heck doesn’t feel like it. Compared to our neighbours like Phuket and Bali, Singapore is a city of the future with its skyscrapers, high tech-gizmos and speedy pace of living. For times when the beaches and parks just don’t cut it, we seek an escape. Enter tropical-themed cafes – these special spaces instantly put us in an island state of mind.

1. Botanist

Image credit: Botanist

Run by the same folks behind Pacamara Coffee Roasters and Alchemist, this cafe weighs on the low-key end when it comes to tropical decor. Surrounding its long tables are foliage-covered walls, and hanging ferns. Its menu – befitting its interiors – feature fresh flowers and herbs.

Address: Botanist, 74 Neil Road, Singapore 088839.

 

2. The Garage

Image credit: The Garage

Bee's Knees at The Garage

We can’t quite get enough of The Garage. The dining spot merges its garden surrounds with Singapore’s islandscape into one hot locale. On the ground floor you’ll find Bee’s Knees: a casual self-service cafe decorated with terrazzo and tiled walls, foliage, and wooden furniture.

 

 

Image credit: The Garage

Botanico at The Garage

Up the stairs, you’ll find Botanico. High-ceilinged, the plant-filled space connects to a secret outdoor garden bar with fresh herb and flower-infused cocktails.

Address: The Garage, 50 Cluny Park Road, Singapore 257488.

 

3. Berriwell

Image credit: Berriwell

 

You’re looking at East Coast’s most Instagrammable cafe of the moment. Berriwell takes us straight to Bali with its loud and proud interiors – think rattan chairs, palm tree wall art, flamingo cushions and bright colours vying for attention. It’s Singapore’s only acai soft serve cafe, so superfood is the star of the show here. You’ll need a superswirl; these are vegan, dairy and gluten-free, and come with various toppings like Manuka honey peanuts and chia seeds, in flavours like Spirulina and Thai coconut.

Address: Berriwell, 19 East Coast Road #01-01, Singapore 428746.

 

4. Dulukala at Island

Whoever said Orchard lacks cool cafes was sorely mistaken. Case in point? Dulukala, located at the top floor of Tangs. The bright and breezy space makes for a lovely respite in between manic shopping. Take a seat by the pastel leafy wallpaper, or at its outdoor area, which features wooden furnishings, massive plants and the bang-on trend white walls featuring heavily in tropical-themed cafes in Bali.

Address: Dulukala at Island, Tangs, 4/F, 310 Orchard Rd., Singapore 238864.

 

5. Don Ho Social Kitchen and Bar

Image credit: Don Ho Social Kitchen and Bar

Tropical interiors and cocktails.

Let’s start with the interiors of this restaurant – it hits the right balance between downtown polished and modern tropical. Step in for dinner and you’ll immediately notice the statement-making wallpaper, and palm plants peppering the corners. Blink again and you’ll see the rest of this hip space; take a seat in a plush booth, and wine and dine surrounded by brass and gold accents, baked in the warmth of dim lighting.

Address: Don Ho Social Kitchen and Bar, 1 Keong Saik Road, The Working Capitol Building, Singapore 089109.

 

6. Merci Marcel

Image credit: Selina Altomonte, Honeycombers

 

Naturally, the cafe on everyone’s lips has the hippest interiors around. This lovely little spot is divided into two sections, one being the indoor bar and resto, and the other being the light-filled alfresco area for brunch and intimate dinners. There’s plenty of tropical feels to go around, with wall art of palm leaves, abundant potted plants and glam rattan, gold and pastels in one stunning space.

Address: Merci Marcel, 56 Eng Hoon Street, #01-68, Tiong Bahru, Singapore 160056, p. 6224 0113.