Starbucks opens new heritage shophouse outlet in Chinatown

Starbucks Singapore has opened its first heritage shophouse outlet at 37 Smith Street, right in the heart of Chinatown. 

This time, it’s not just about the coffee — it marks the brand’s first store set within a conserved heritage shophouse, bringing the classic Starbucks experience together with something so quintessentially Singaporean.

A thoughtfully designed space

The two-storey outlet is thoughtfully designed to reflect Chinatown’s cultural roots. 

One of the most distinctive features of this outlet is the series of striking, intricate murals by Singaporean artist and illustrator Tiffany Lovage. Her works blend elements of local heritage, coffee culture and community spirit.

Her colourful, expressive art graces both the exterior facade and the interior walls, connecting Singapore’s cultural heritage with the contemporary cafe experience.

Sit upstairs and you’ll be greeted by views of the bustling street below, framed by large shophouse windows — reinforcing the store’s old-world charm and modern comfort.

Store-exclusive bites and beverages with local flavours

To mark the occasion, Starbucks has unveiled several menu items exclusive to this outlet, with a focus on flavours inspired by well-loved Singaporean classics.

For drinks, you can opt for the newest addition: Black sesame oatmilk coffee frappuccino with soy pudding (S$9.90) — a creamy blend of roasted black sesame, coffee and milk, with silky soy pudding and topped with whipped cream.

Or try the yuan yang coffee frappuccino (S$9.90), which combines coffee, hojicha, milk, chocolate chips and whipped cream — a modern spin on the traditional kopi-teh hybrid.

In collaboration with local bakery Old Seng Choong, Starbucks has introduced a range of sweet and savoury snacks that reinterpret nostalgic local flavours.

Savoury options include the XL chicken char siew puff (S$6), coffee bolo bun with butter (S$4.90) and coffee egg tart (S$3.90).

Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in the java chip frappuccino swiss roll (S$7.20), lychee swiss roll (S$7.20) and the pandan chiffon cake (S$3.90).

First-of-its-kind dedicated retail space

Also worth checking out is Starbucks’ new retail corner that showcases some limited-edition items created in collaboration with Singaporean artists.

The JunleFont collection, designed by local artist Lee Jun Le (also known as Lele) features his expressive calligraphy on drinkware, tote bags, pouches, and other accessories — all exclusive to this outlet.

Lifestyle brand WhenIwasfour brings a nostalgic touch with designs that capture everyday Singaporean life. It includes water bottles, tote bags, and stainless steel tumblers adorned with patterns and icons inspired by Singaporean culture.

You can also find the lion dance series, which includes festive-themed drinkware and accessories. There’s also a samsui Bearista plush keychain that’s available only at this outlet!

This was an invited tasting.

For the latest food news, read our stories on the Pizza Hut’s cheeseburger Melts plushies and the popular cheesecake brand Queic now in Singapore.

Starbucks is on the Grabfood Delivery service and offers free delivery (up to S$3 off) with GrabUnlimited. 

Enjoy up to 50% off when you dine with GrabFood Dine Out.

You can also book a ride to Chinatown to try the local-inspired black sesame frappuccino.