Starbucks has officially opened a new chapter in Singapore’s coffee scene with the launch of its flagship store at 37 Smith Street. This isn’t just any Starbucks. It’s the brand’s first outlet housed within a heritage shophouse in the heart of Chinatown—a bold blend of global coffee culture and local tradition.
A Store That Tells a Story
Just a short walk from Chinatown MRT, the two-storey store stands as a cultural landmark. It’s where Starbucks pays homage to Singapore’s rich Chinese heritage with every detail—from architecture and signage to its locally inspired menu and exclusive merchandise.
On the outside, the façade is instantly eye-catching. Starbucks’ name is elegantly spelled in Chinese—星巴克—on a custom-crafted signboard and entrance pillars. The work was a collaboration between renowned local masters of calligraphy, wood carving, and plaster moulding.
Calligraphy Master Yong Cheong Thye joins hands with Wood Carving Master Cheh Kai Hon in a poetic meeting of brush and blade. Ink dances across wood, no longer confined to paper. Each stroke breathes, carved in depth and shadow. Their fusion reimagines tradition—where calligraphy, painting, and carving entwine into a living, textured tapestry of Chinese art. It’s the first time the brand has done this in Singapore.
Inside, it’s no less striking. Local artist Tiffany Lovage has created a series of murals across both levels. From bullock carts carrying coffee cherries to koi fish swimming beneath a phoenix, the artwork weaves together coffee culture, Chinatown’s heritage, and contemporary creativity.
A Menu Made for Singapore
But the cultural fusion doesn’t stop at the walls. The Smith Street menu features drinks and treats exclusive to this store.
You’ll find the Black Sesame Oatmilk Coffee Frappuccino with Soy Pudding—a nutty, dessert-inspired blend with local flair that’s purple — and the Yuan Yang Coffee Frappuccino, a cheeky take on the iconic Hong Kong milk tea-coffee hybrid with chocolate chips and hojicha. We haven’t tasted these two new beverages yet. Will probably be back to try them.
Feeling peckish? The food selection includes localised bites in collaboration with Old Seng Choong. Think XL Chicken Char Siew Puff, Coffee Egg Tart, and a Starbucks Coffee Bolo Bun with Butter. Sweet-toothed visitors can pick from Java Chip Swiss Rolls, Lychee Swiss Rolls, and even Pandan Chiffon Cake, sold by the slice or as whole cakes. Mind you, the Starbucks Coffee Bolo Bun with Butter is extremely addictive. One may not be enough.
Merchandise With Heart and Heritage
Retail therapy, anyone? Starbucks 37 Smith Street is also home to an exclusive line of merchandise. There’s a heartwarming collaboration with autistic local artist Le Le of JunleFont, whose hand-drawn characters now grace mugs, tumblers, pouches and more. Each stroke celebrates joy, resilience, and personal expression.
The Starbucks + JunLeFont collection is launching exclusively at the 37 Smith Street store, with tumblers arriving on 7 April, mugs on 11 April, and the tote bag, pouch, and chopsticks set following on 25 April.
Also on the shelves: a nostalgic line with local design studio wheniwasfour. This playful, retro collection taps into Singaporean childhood memories and motifs, from kopitiam culture to colourful playgrounds.
Oh, and did we mention the Merlion Bearista? This life-sized plush makes a great photo-op and a very huggable souvenir over at the retail store.
Get your hands on a Singapore-exclusive Bearista plush and keychain, both in cute lion dance costumes. Also, don’t miss the Samsui Bearista Plush Keychain—a heartfelt nod to the iconic Samsui woman. Dressed in traditional attire with a tiny clog charm, it celebrates Chinatown’s heritage and spirit. The Lion Dance Series is in stores now.The Samsui Bearista launches 25 April, only at Starbucks 37 Smith Street, while stocks last.
A Cultural Anchor for Chinatown
This store isn’t just a new address for coffee lovers. It’s part of Chinatown’s wider rejuvenation. Starbucks has been welcomed as the anchor tenant of Smith Street, envisioned as the “Cultural Heart” of the district.
With a thoughtfully designed space that evokes traditional chess set-ups, community spirit, and shared experiences, Starbucks 37 Smith Street aims to be more than a café. It’s a meeting point for culture, comfort and connection.
Whether you’re a local looking for a new favourite haunt, or a visitor exploring the old-meets-new charms of Singapore, this is one Starbucks that truly stands out.
