Rookie’s Coffee Shop: Under-HDB Cafe With Chill Vibes And Bandung Coffee In Queensway

Rookie Coffee is a hidden cafe in Bukit Merah with legit coffee

If you’re a Bukit Merah resident, you may have come across Rookie’s Coffee Shop, a cosy cafe hidden under a HDB block. While its location isn’t exactly the most accessible—it’s a 10-minute bus ride from Queensway or Redhill MRT Station—the hidden spot draws coffee enthusiasts and cafe hoppers for its chill setup and delicious coffee.

The hole-in-the-wall cafe fits around eight people indoors, with the option of seats along the bar and foldable camping chairs that you can place right outside and unwind at.

There’s also a small area by the corner for two diners to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Alternatively, grab a chair and head outside to people-watch.

Rookie’s Coffee Shop’s menu is concise and coffee-focused with a handful of sweet bakes to choose from.

We went for an Iced White ($6) and an Iced Bandung ‘Spro ($7), a rose syrup-infused latte. The former was smooth yet robust, with just the right ratio of milk and espresso.

Go for the bandung latte if you’re a fan of rose flavours; this pretty drink comes with visible layers of pink, white, and brown, making it great for the ‘gram.

We also recommend ordering a slab of Brownie ($4), which is warmed up right before serving. This rich and dense chocolate brownie was the perfect treat that complemented the strong coffees. Else, other popular bakes include Chocolate Chip Cookie ($4) and Lemon Bar ($5.50).

The cafe walls are dotted with colourful art and event posters that add a fun vibe to the space. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re in the area and in need of a pick-me-up!

If you’re looking for more food to fill up on, read our Jjeong’s Jjajang review for handmade jjajangmyeon and other Korean-Chinese fare nearby. Otherwise, for something a little different, read our guide to unique kopi stalls in Singapore, including espresso-based and oat milk kopi.

Address: 123 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-112, Singapore 150123
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 10am to 5pm, Sat 10am to 6pm
Website
Rookie’s Coffee Shop is not a halal-certified eatery.

Photos taken by John Lery Villanueva.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg

Anthia Chng

As the Associate Editor of Eatbook, Anthia survives on a steady diet of cake and coffee. With a decade of writing experience in food, fashion, and beauty—including six years at Expat Living Singapore—she’s passionate about sharing stories that excite and inspire, whether it’s discovering the latest restaurant opening or shining a light on a heritage hawker stall.