Chye Seng Huat Hardware: Where Heritage Meets Singapore's Third Wave Coffee

If you've ever explored Singapore's specialty coffee scene, you've likely heard of Chye Seng Huat Hardware (CSHH). But what makes this cafe a must-visit destination for coffee lovers?

The answer lies in its remarkable story. Housed in a beautifully restored 1940s Art Deco shophouse, CSHH retains much of its original hardware store charm, complete with industrial fittings, exposed brick walls, and vintage signage that transports visitors back in time.

CSHH is the flagship outlet of PPP Coffee, one of Singapore's pioneering specialty coffee roasters. Under the leadership of Leon Foo and his team, CSHH helped introduce Singaporeans to third-wave coffee. This movement treats coffee as an artisanal product, focusing on bean origin, roasting profiles, and precise brewing methods.

The cafe operates a 360-degree coffee bar where customers can watch baristas meticulously prepare their drinks using beans roasted in-house.

This transparency and dedication to craft have earned CSHH a loyal following and numerous accolades, including recognition from Tatler and Time Out Singapore.

At CSHH, the menu is a testament to the art of coffee making. Let's explore what makes their offerings stand out.

Espresso-Based Classics:

Espresso (S$4–5): A classic choice that highlights the pure flavour of their espresso, marked with a dollop of steamed milk foam (Macchiato). Perfect for those who appreciate the unadulterated taste of quality beans.

Piccolo (S$5): A 4oz latte that delivers a robust coffee-to-milk ratio, ideal for those seeking a flavourful yet compact brew. It's a favourite among purists who want a strong, balanced drink.

Flat White / Latte / Cappuccino (S$6.2–7.7): These staples are executed with precision, allowing the natural notes of their single-origin beans to shine through. The Flat White, with its velvety microfoam, is a particular crowd-pleaser.

Espresso Flight (S$9): An excellent way for coffee lovers to explore different flavour profiles, this flight offers a single espresso alongside a 5oz white coffee, allowing for a comparative tasting experience.

Espresso Affogato (S$9.2): A delightful dessert-coffee hybrid, featuring creamy vanilla ice cream "drowned" in a shot of hot espresso. It's a perfect balance of bitter and sweet textures.

Filter Coffee:

Pour-Over (from S$8.5): This method allows the unique characteristics of each bean, from Ethiopian fruitiness to Colombian chocolate notes, to be fully expressed.

Batch Brew (S$5.5): A more accessible entry into the world of filter coffee, this offers a clean and consistent cup, perfect for those new to specialty coffee.

Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or a curious newcomer, CSHH offers an experience that's as educational as it is enjoyable. It's a testament to what happens when passion, heritage, and quality come together.