Good Chai People – This is the First Spiced Tea Specialty Cafe in Singapore

Coffee or tea? If you belong to the group of people that enjoys the flavour of leaves over beans, then Good Chai People might be the perfect spot for your next brunch. While most cafes in Singapore have a coffee-centric selection, this cosy tea spot in Katong serves up an aromatic chai-focused menu instead. 

Good Chai People is believed to be the first of its kind in Singapore; there are some 10 different kinds of vegan-friendly spiced tea beverages to choose from. And almost everything is made using Ceylon OPA or Orange Pekoe A tea – a fine grade given to premium leaves that come larger and twisted, while yielding a delicate flavour when brewed.

The sticky chai latte ($7/$8) is a soothing blend of creaminess and mild spices, lightly sweetened with coconut sugar. It tastes more subdued than the traditional Indian variants, but still suitably moreish. For a caffeine-free option, consider the hoji-chai latte ($7/$8), which tasted equally enjoyable. Earthy notes from Japanese roasted tea mingles with floral-scented chai to create a deliciously aromatic cup. 

Also on the menu are novel concoctions that we’d definitely be back to try, including a minty chai ($7) and pink chai ($8/$9) adorned with Himalayan salt and chopped pistachio. We appreciated that all the drinks are made using oat milk, so there is no need to top-up for non-dairy options. Of course, espresso-based drinks (from $4) are still available, alongside juices and milkshakes (from $7).

After warming the belly with an aromatic chai, you’d want to fill up on some hearty grub. All-day brunch plates are served, with highlights of shrimp and smashed avocado ($17) and yuzu salmon on toast ($18). But what caught our eye was the vibrant French toast ($20) – which tasted as good as it looks. Thick-cut brioche is carefully layered with dollops of whipped cream cheese, berries compote, fresh berries and figs, then finished with a drizzle of maple thyme. 

We enjoyed the honey-baked brie ($18), too – the gooey cheese was a great complement to juicy cranberries and crispy almonds. The starter might be meant as a light bite, but we wished there could be more sourdough bread to accompany the dish. Two slices were hardly enough to ration between the whole wheel of cheese. 

For lighter bites, a selection of seasonal pastries and desserts can be found on display at the counter. There is also a small retail nook that stocks up scented hand-poured candles from homegrown brand Nine Wicker Avenue. The space is dressed in wood-hued Scandinavian fixtures, which adds a welcoming touch. Much like sipping on a cup of tea, dining at the Good Chai People feels warm and fuzzy.

MissTamChiak.com made an anonymous visit and paid its own meal at the cafe featured here.