Guide to ordering Kopi in Singapore

Kopi in Singapore is more than just a drink—it’s practically a national pastime and a key part of Singapore coffee culture.

We wrote about coffee in a previous article. What about Kopi? It’s that sweet, strong traditional Singaporean coffee that you’ve probably encountered at every hawker centre, often served with a side of Singaporean charm (or maybe a long wait). But before you make any assumptions, let’s clear up the difference between Kopi vs Western coffee and break down the many ways of ordering Kopi in Singapore—because ordering it wrong could definitely get you some raised eyebrows. Need a guide to Singapore’s kopi terminology or want to settle the Kopi C vs Kopi O debate once and for all? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re wondering what goes well with Kopi (hint: a classic Kopi and kaya toast pairing never fails) or just looking for the best Kopi spots in Singapore, this is your ultimate guide. And for those days when you’re feeling less coffee and more tea—well, don’t worry, there’s a solution for that too.

What is Kopi?

The word kopi comes from the Malay and Indonesian languages, which both borrowed it from the Dutch word koffie, meaning coffee. This reflects the colonial influence in Southeast Asia, where coffee cultivation and trade flourished under European powers. In Singapore, kopi has evolved into its own distinct style, referring specifically to the strong, bold coffee brewed with robusta beans and typically sweetened with condensed or evaporated milk. Unlike Western-style coffee, Singapore’s kopi is made using a sock-like cloth filter and brewed in metal pots, giving it a rich, smooth taste that locals swear by.

Kopi vs coffee

• Kopi – Traditional Singaporean coffee made with robusta beans, brewed using a cloth filter, and often mixed with condensed or evaporated milk for a rich, sweet flavor.
• Coffee – Typically refers to Western-style coffee, brewed with arabica or robusta beans using espresso machines, drip coffee makers, or French presses, with a more varied range of flavors and textures.

What are the different ways of ordering Kopi in Singapore?

So how do you order Kopi in Singapore?

In Singapore, ordering kopi is almost an art form, with specific terms to customize your brew. Here’s the full list of how you can order kopi like a local:

Basic Kopi Orders

• Kopi – Coffee with condensed milk (sweet and creamy).
• Kopi O – Black coffee with sugar (no milk).
• Kopi C – Coffee with evaporated milk and sugar (less sweet than Kopi).

Sugar & Sweetness Levels

• Kopi Kosong – Black coffee, no sugar, no milk (just pure coffee).
• Kopi O Kosong – Black coffee without sugar (very strong).
• Kopi C Kosong – Coffee with evaporated milk, no sugar.
• Kopi Siew Dai – Less sugar (a slightly healthier option).
• Kopi O Siew Dai – Black coffee with less sugar.
• Kopi C Siew Dai – Coffee with evaporated milk, less sugar.
• Kopi Ga Dai – Extra sweet (more condensed milk).
• Kopi O Ga Dai – Black coffee, extra sugar.
• Kopi C Ga Dai – Coffee with evaporated milk, extra sugar.

Milk & Strength Customization

• Kopi Po – Weaker, more diluted coffee.
• Kopi Gao – Thicker and stronger brew.
• Kopi Di Lo – Super thick and strong coffee, almost like an espresso shot.
• Kopi Peng – Iced coffee with condensed milk.
• Kopi O Peng – Iced black coffee with sugar.
• Kopi C Peng – Iced coffee with evaporated milk and sugar.
• Kopi Siew Dai Peng – Iced coffee with less sugar.

Healthier & Special Variants

• Kopi Siu Char – Lightly roasted coffee (less bitter).
• Kopi Dabao – Takeaway coffee (often in a plastic bag with a straw).
• Kopi Gu You – Butter coffee (with a slab of butter for a smooth, creamy taste).

Mastering these orders ensures you’ll always get your perfect cup of kopi—just don’t hesitate when saying it at the hawker stall!

Best places to get Kopi in Singapore

Here are some of the best places to get kopi in Singapore, along with their locations:

Traditional & Heritage Kopi Spots

• Nanyang Old Coffee – 268 South Bridge Road
• Ho Tit Coffee Powder Factory (Kopi Museum) – 402 Upper Paya Lebar Road
• Tong Ah Eating House – 35 Keong Saik Road
• Killiney Kopitiam – 67 Killiney Road
• Heap Seng Leong – 10 North Bridge Road

Hawker Centre Kopi Stalls

• Ah Seng (Hai Nam) Coffee – Amoy Street Food Centre (#02-95, 7 Maxwell Road)
• Coffee Break – Amoy Street Food Centre (#02-78, 7 Maxwell Road)

Popular Kopi Chains & Modern Cafés

• Toast Box – The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands (B1-01, 2 Bayfront Avenue) (multiple outlets across Singapore)
• BreadTalk – Bugis Junction (B1, Victoria Street) (multiple outlets across Singapore)

What goes well with Kopi?

• Kaya Toast – A must-have pairing with kopi, kaya toast is a Singaporean breakfast staple. The combination of traditional kopi and kaya toast (coconut jam with butter on toasted bread) is a match made in heaven that locals swear by. It’s commonly found in kopi tiams (coffee shops) and at hawker centers.
• Soft-Boiled Eggs – These eggs are often served with kaya toast and seasoned with soy sauce and pepper, offering a perfect dip for your Nanyang kopi.
• Peanut Butter Toast – If you’re not into kaya, peanut butter toast is another popular option to pair with your local kopi. The combination of creamy peanut butter and the rich, strong flavor of Singaporean kopi will definitely hit the spot.
• Chinese Doughnuts (You Tiao) – These crispy dough sticks are traditionally dunked into kopi. Their crispy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the smooth richness of Nanyang kopi.
• Curry Puff – The spicy, savory flavor of curry puffs complements the bold flavor of kopi. This pastry makes for a great snack when paired with your morning kopi and kaya toast set.
• Chwee Kueh – These steamed rice cakes with preserved radish go well with a hot cup of kopi in the morning, adding a delicious savory element to your Singapore kopi experience.
• Singaporean Pastries & Dim Sum – From kaya-filled buns to egg tarts, Singaporean pastries are a perfect match for your cup of kopi. These sweet and savory treats are often enjoyed alongside kopi and kaya toast for a complete breakfast.

Pairing your kopi with any of these delicious snacks, particularly kaya toast, is an iconic way to enjoy a traditional Singaporean breakfast. Whether you’re at a kopi tiam or a hawker centre, these pairings elevate your kopi and kaya toast experience.

What if I want tea instead?

If you’re in the mood for tea instead of kopi, Singapore has plenty of delightful options to satisfy your cravings, all while maintaining that local charm.

• Teh Tarik – The Singaporean milk tea that’s “pulled” to create a frothy top. This is the perfect alternative if you’re looking for something similar to kopi, but with a creamier, smoother texture.
• Teh – A simple cup of black tea with sugar, a local favorite for those who prefer a less creamy but still rich, sweet flavor.
• Teh C – For something a bit stronger, try Teh C, which is made with condensed milk, offering a sweet and thick tea experience.
• Teh Halia – If you prefer your tea with a kick, Teh Halia adds a touch of ginger, making it a great warming alternative to your typical kopi.
• Chinese Tea – Opt for a traditional Chinese tea if you’re looking for something lighter and less sweet. Jasmine tea or oolong tea are common choices in local kopitiams.
• Iced Lemon Tea – A refreshing, cold alternative to hot beverages, often found at hawker centers or cafes.

For all the kopi lovers looking for a change, Singapore’s tea offerings are just as rich and full of flavor. Whether you want something sweet like Teh Tarik or a refreshing iced tea, you’re sure to find the perfect tea to sip alongside your favorite snacks.

Happy drinking!