By day, Kōki Alternative Bread Bar is known for their creative sandwiches and specialty drip coffee, but at night, it transforms into its cooler, older sister, a vibey hangout where ambient lighting and jazzy tunes set the mood. It’s perfect for a date night or a chill catch-up with friends after a long day at work.
How to get there?
Just a 7-minute walk from Maxwell MRT Station (Exit 3), this unique spot is nestled within the rows of shophouses, with its entrance staircase tucked right beside Routine, which can be easy to miss. Climbing up the stairs, it almost feels like you’re being transported straight into a ramen shop in Japan. The sliding door, Japanese-inspired signboard, and friendly staff all add to the experience, making you feel welcomed the moment you arrive.
Recently, they have also launched their dinner menu, adding a new layer to its charm. You’ll now find exclusive collaborations, hearty mains, creative small plates, and drinks designed for a vibey evening. It feels less like a cafe at night and more like a hidden bar-dining experience, giving regulars a fresh reason to come back.
The Interior
Inside, the space feels intimate and Japanese-inspired, with warm wood accents, ambient lighting, and minimalist touches that add to its cozy yet modern vibe. Although the space looks small, they can seat around 25-30 people and are open to walk-ins or reservations through DMs on their Instagram.
Table seating is limited, better for groups of 2 to 4. Most seats are at the bar counter, which offers a closer look at the bar and grill in action.
What We Tried
They have a special evening menu which differs from their day-time menu. They serve pastas and toasts in the evening.
Cold Cut Trio Shokupan ($22) ⭐ Favourite
A sweet-savoury combo done really well. The shokupan, their specialty, is soft, layered with fresh salami, cheese, and peach. The dish finishes with a balsamic fig sauce, which adds a really nice touch to the flavours. The peach adds a juicy sweetness that balances perfectly with the savoury elements. A dish I found light and refreshing, a perfect palate opener.
Cold Matcha Butter Chicken Brioche ($24)
The brioche was fluffy and soft, but the chicken leaned a little on the dry side. With a name this unique, I was anticipating a flavour explosion, but the curry spice really overshadowed the matcha and butter flavour, leaving it more spicy than special. It’s a bold idea with potential, but for now, the balance of flavours doesn’t quite shine as much as some of the other dishes on the menu.
HK-Style Braised Beef with Penne ($34)
A hearty and comforting dish where the tender beef and rich braised sauce are the clear standouts. The portion of beef is generous, and the authentic Hong Kong-style sauce coats the pasta beautifully, giving it that warm, homey feel. I did wish for a little more sauce, simply because it was that good. The half-fried egg on top and the juicy radish tied everything together nicely. While this dish is on the pricier side, the portion was big and really filling.
Truffle Chips ($24)
A dish where the main character was Aroma’s famous truffle chips, generously topped with parmesan cheese and truffle bits. I instantly understood why it was nicknamed “the most truffle, truffle chips”. It was so flavourful and addictive, truffle lovers would be obsessed. Pricey for chips, but honestly, if you’re a truffle lover or just want something tasty to munch on with drinks when you’re with a group, it’s worth the splurge.
Drinks: Collabs and Exclusives
Kōki Mead Cocktails – Sunset Cocktail ( Koki x Lion City Meadery Collaboration ) ($15/ per glass)
Also coined as the Sunset cocktail, it is neutral and smooth, with flavour notes like orange blossom, rosemary, sage, and black pepper. Slightly bitter but not harsh, and does not burn the throat, although the alcohol content is quite high. Alcohol content is around 13%.
Kōki Exclusive Brew – Purple Gummy Bear (Koki x Singapore Distillery x Lion City Meadery) ($18/gls) ⭐ Favourite
Nicknamed Purple gummy bear, this three-way collab featuring strawberry gin, lime gin, blueberry & hibiscus mead, and blackcurrant. The result is a sweet, berry-flavoured cocktail that’s smooth, fun, and dangerously easy to drink. Alcohol content is about 7%.
Some of their drinks are limited edition and only available until they run out. However, not to fret, as new exclusives are rolled out regularly.
Our Verdict of Kōki Alternative Bread Bar
Would I head back again? Yes, if I’m looking to treat myself after payday to something a little different. The menu has many creative dishes and unique drinks that you won’t be able to find anywhere else, making it a fun spot to explore new flavours. While some dishes are on the pricier side, the overall experience is not bad.
If you’re into trying new and inventive dishes, this is definitely a spot to check out. Just remember to reserve ahead if you’re coming with a group, since seating is limited, and come ready to enjoy a night of flavours, textures, and little culinary surprises.
Kōki Alternative Bread Bar
Address: 60a Duxton Rd, #02-01, Singapore 089524
Opening Hours: Mon–Sun, 9:30am-4pm (Breakfast/Lunch) & 6pm–10pm (Dinner)
**Do take note that this bar is not halal-certified*
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