Singapore is not just famous for its incredible food, it also boasts a rich variety of unique and refreshing drinks! From traditional beverages that have stood the test of time to slightly more modern creations, these drinks are essential to Singapore’s culinary identity. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city’s charm, these must-try drinks are a perfect way to quench your thirst and immerse yourself in Singapore’s vibrant culture.
1. Kopi
Coffee in Singapore, affectionately called kopi, is a staple of everyday life. Made using robusta beans roasted with sugar and margarine, kopi has a bold, caramelised flavour. It’s typically served with sweetened condensed milk, making it rich and indulgent.
Variations of kopi include:
- Kopi C: Coffee with evaporated milk instead of condensed milk.
- Kopi O: Black coffee sweetened with sugar.
- Kopi Kosong: Black coffee with no sugar or milk.
- Kopi Siew Dai: Coffee with less sugar, for a less sweet taste.
To order, start with kopi and add your preferred modifiers. For instance, Kopi C Siew Dai gets you coffee with evaporated milk and less sugar.
TripZilla Tip: Don’t yell “Coffee! Coffee!” at the hawker stalls. Stick to calling it kopi—it’s not just tradition, but a show of respect for the local culture!
Also read: When in Singapore, Do as the Singaporeans Do – Your Guide to Ordering Kopi and Teh
2. Teh
Tea is a beloved beverage in Singapore, often enjoyed as teh at hawker centres and coffee shops. Traditional Singaporean tea can be quite bitter, as it is sometimes infused with medicinal herbs believed to have health benefits. However, the standard version (teh) is made with tea leaves and sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a creamy and satisfying drink.
Variations of teh you might encounter include:
- Teh C: Made with evaporated milk instead of condensed milk, offering a less sweet, creamier taste.
- Teh O: Tea without milk, sweetened only with sugar.
- Teh Kosong: Tea without sugar or milk, for those who prefer it plain.
- Teh Siew Dai: Tea with less sugar, for a mildly sweet option.
When ordering tea, simply specify your preferred style (e.g., Teh O Kosong for plain tea without sugar).
3. Teh tarik
Teh tarik is another beloved drink in Singapore, and watching it being made is almost as enjoyable as drinking it! Traditionally crafted by Indian tea-makers, teh tarik involves pouring hot milk tea back and forth between two vessels, creating a frothy, creamy texture. The skilful stretching of the liquid—tarik meaning “pulled” in Malay—has become an iconic display that often captivates an eager audience.
This frothy, sweet tea is a common favourite at local coffee shops, where people gather to enjoy the perfect balance of rich tea and creamy milk. It’s often served hot or iced, depending on your preference.
4. Milo dinosaur
Calling all chocolate lovers! If you’re not from this part of the world, you might not be familiar with Milo — a chocolate malt drink that has captured the hearts of Singaporeans for decades. In Singapore, Milo is everywhere: from minimarts and hawker centres to every McDonald’s outlet.
The Milo Dinosaur is a fun and indulgent twist on the classic drink. A generous spoonful of undissolved Milo powder is sprinkled on top of an ice-cold cup of Milo, giving it an extra hit of rich, chocolatey goodness. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Singapore!
TripZilla Tip: Love the Milo Dinosaur? Don’t stop there—try Milo bars, Milo nuggets, or Milo cereal for even more chocolatey delights!
5. Bandung
You can spot this vibrant pink drink at almost any hawker centre or kopitiam in Singapore! While its bold hue might remind you of medicine, bandung is anything but bitter. Made from a mix of milk and rose cordial syrup, this icy drink is delightfully sweet and fragrant — a perfect pick-me-up on a hot day. It’s also a popular choice for festive occasions, thanks to its cheerful colour and refreshing taste!
6. Sugarcane juice
This iconic drink is a staple at hawker centres across Singapore, known for its incredible sweetness and refreshing quality. Sugarcane juice is made by repeatedly running fresh sugarcane stalks through a small mill to extract the juice. Once pressed, the juice is filtered to remove any fibrous residue, resulting in a smooth, natural drink.
Often served over ice, sugarcane juice is a crowd favourite, especially on hot days, and is considered by many to be one of Singapore’s signature drinks. Despite its sweetness, sugarcane juice is also packed with electrolytes and nutrients, making it a popular choice for a quick energy boost!
TripZilla Tip: Want an extra zing? Some vendors offer a splash of lime juice, adding a tangy twist to this beloved drink.
7. Barley water
Barley water is a time-honoured drink in Singapore, known for its numerous health benefits. Brewed with barley and water, this soothing beverage is popular in Singapore’s hot climate due to its cooling properties. Traditionally, barley water is believed to help with digestive issues, relieve sore throats, combat urinary tract infections (UTIs), promote lactation, and even reduce high blood pressure.
Although it has a rather unique, slightly nutty taste that may take some getting used to, the drink is a favourite for those seeking a natural remedy to combat the heat and boost wellness. Whether served sweetened or plain, barley water remains a beloved choice for many who value both tradition and health in their drinks.
8. Soya bean
Soya bean drinks are a staple in Singapore, known for their mild and slightly sweet flavour that tastes just like its main ingredient—soybeans! Whether you prefer it chilled or blended, this drink is loved for its refreshing, smooth texture and subtle taste.
One of the most popular outlets for this beverage is Mr Bean, where you can enjoy soya bean in various forms. From the traditional ice-cold, smoothie-like version to a frozen, ice-cream-style treat, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this versatile drink. It’s a fantastic choice for a nutritious, plant-based refreshment that’s easy to find all around Singapore.
9. Bubble tea
Warning: Bubble tea is highly addictive! Judging by the long queues outside bubble tea outlets, it’s clear this drink has captured the hearts of Singaporeans, from the youth to the adult population. This popular drink typically consists of sweet milk tea and chewy tapioca pearls (boba), creating a delightful mix of textures and flavours.
In recent years, bubble tea has evolved far beyond its original form, with endless variations like fruit teas, cheese-topped teas, and drinks featuring toppings like aloe vera, pudding, or popping pearls. However, be mindful of its high sugar content—many versions pack a sugary punch, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
TripZilla Tip: In Singapore, the Nutri-Grade system is now in place to rate beverages based on their sugar and fat content, ranging from A (healthier choice) to D (less healthy). To make a healthier choice, opt for lower sugar levels or try drinks with Nutri-Grade labels rated A or B!
10. Chin chow grass jelly
Chin chow, also known as grass jelly, is another cooling, refreshing drink popular in Singapore. Made from Mesona chinensis, a type of herb, the grass jelly is boiled, cooled, and cut into deep, black slabs of chewy jelly. This drink is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, including aiding in digestion and helping to lower blood pressure.
Chin chow is often served chilled and can be enjoyed on its own or as a base for various toppings. Popular additions include palm seeds, longan, or honey sea coconut, transforming it into a satisfying dessert. Its versatility makes it a favourite during Singapore’s hot weather, offering both a refreshing drink and a nutritious treat in one.
11. Lime juice
So shiok! Lime juice or calamansi is a zesty, refreshing drink that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day in Singapore. Made from freshly squeezed limes, this tangy beverage packs a punch of citrus flavour that’s both revitalizing and thirst-quenching. The sourness of the lime juice is often balanced with a touch of sugar, making it the ideal drink to enjoy while relaxing or taking a break.
Lime juice is especially popular during the warmer parts of the day and can be found at most hawker centres or cafes, where it’s served ice-cold for an extra refreshing experience. It’s the perfect drink to perk up your senses, whether you’re in need of a midday boost or simply unwinding in the tropical heat.
12. Coconut water
Coconut water is a popular and natural beverage in Singapore, known for its hydrating and refreshing properties. Often served fresh from the coconut, it’s a go-to drink for many, especially during hot and humid days. The slightly sweet, nutty flavour of coconut water is both cooling and replenishing, packed with electrolytes that make it ideal for rehydration. Whether enjoyed on the go or sipped slowly, coconut water is a quintessential drink that captures the essence of Singapore’s tropical climate.