What does it mean when a global brand takes root in a place rich in tradition? We found the answer at 37 Smith Street — right in the heart of Singapore’s Chinatown — where Starbucks has just opened its most culturally immersive store yet. But this isn’t just another coffee stop. It’s a heartfelt ode to heritage, craft, and community — and we couldn’t be more intrigued.
At first glance, the two-storey shophouse is striking. The beautifully preserved facade, adorned with an eye-catching mural by local artist Tiffany Lovage, hints at what lies within: a harmonious fusion of east and west, tradition and modernity. Step inside and the magic only deepens.
The new Starbucks is more than a coffee house
This new Starbucks isn’t just a coffeehouse; it’s a love letter to Singapore’s multicultural soul. From hand-carved calligraphy signboards by Masters Yong Cheong Thye and Cheh Kai Hon, to murals that marry koi fish, coffee cherries, and Chinese porcelain motifs — everything here speaks of intentional design and deep respect for place.
One of the most beautiful touches? The traditional “星巴克” branding. It’s the first Starbucks in Singapore to officially bear its name in Chinese script, prominently displayed through wood carving and plaster moulding at the entrances. It’s more than signage — it’s storytelling.
We often talk about how brands should “localise”, but Starbucks has taken that one step further — they’ve integrated. They haven’t just adapted to Chinatown; they’ve become part of its evolving story. With nods to nostalgic void-deck chess set-ups, a curated retail area featuring homegrown artist JunleFont’s heartfelt calligraphy, and a limited-edition collection with WHENIWASFOUR, this Starbucks feels less like a chain store, and more like a thoughtful community guest.
Starbucks drinks get a local twist
Of course, there’s more than just eye candy. Food and drink take on a hyperlocal twist too. We sampled the Black Sesame Oatmilk Coffee Frappuccino with Soy Pudding, which channels the comfort of black sesame paste desserts into a modern treat. The Yuan Yang Coffee Frappuccino, infused with hojicha and chocolate chips, was another standout.
Then came the Old Seng Choong pastries — and we’ll be dreaming about that XL Chicken Char Siew Puff and the buttery Coffee Bolo Bun with chilled butter for days. Even the Gem Icing Cookies brought a nostalgic smile. This is what you get when a brand chooses cultural collaboration over commercial copy-pasting.
The 37 Smith Street store also acts as an anchor in the Chinatown rejuvenation project — part of an effort to revitalise Smith Street as the “Cultural Heart” of the district. With its thoughtful retail collaborations, bespoke merchandise, and exclusive local bites, this Starbucks doesn’t just serve coffee — it builds bridges between past and present, between locals and visitors.
📍 Visit Starbucks at 37 Smith Street, Singapore 058950
(3-minute walk from Chinatown MRT)
🛍️ Limited-edition merchandise and menu items are available in-store and via the Starbucks app’s Mobile Order & Pay.
