PUBLISHED October 22nd, 2019 06:00 am | UPDATED July 28th, 2024 01:47 am
Something’s brewing in the enduring heart of Serene Centre. Since July, Elixir Boutique Roasters has officially formed the trifecta of coffeehouses (with Atlas Coffeehouse and the original The Affogato Bar) around Cluny Court. Competition’s rough, but house-roasted espressos, caffeinated cocktails and a dual-concept venue make it a standout place to be for casual hangouts, day drinking, and everything in between.
It’s an open letter of love to all things coffee, from bean types to roasting styles, and Chief Roaster Kenneth curates his beans from a congregation of industry experts and coffee lovers. This means blends may change on a whim, but there’ll always be a good brew on hand. There’re a number of single origins – have them in either Black (S$4++) or White (S$4/$4.50/$5++). Feel free to ask for recommendations, or try it in a Cold Brew (S$6.50++) instead. Our experience with Kenneth’s Flow State Blend was a light and easy one, with creamy Brazilian Cerrado and bright, floral Ethiopia Yirgacheffe delivering a profile of treacle and chocolate in a medium-bodied brew.
From bean roaster to bar-ista, Kenneth’s the proverbial jack of all trades. His arsenal of premium roasts on the side make for some excellent coffee cocktails (served till 4pm everyday except Wednesday), and it doesn’t hurt that he throws in an little personality, too – they’re each developed to the tune of his favourite rock classics. Nutty and light, the Killer Queen (S$13++) is an easy start, made with homemade cascara syrup and Disaronno Italian Liqueur to create a light, nutty aperitif.
But if you’re gunning for a buzz, jump straight for the Motely Crue’s Same Ole’ Situation (S$13++), a spirit-forward Old Fashioned reimagined in a double-whammy serve of Woodford Reserve bourbon and homemade bitters made from single origin Costa Rica Las Trojas beans. And while Black Smoke Rising (S$12++) is technically a mocktail, torched bourbon and a full-bodied roast still pack quite a punch.
Beans aside, there’re also a reasonable number of menu items you ought to try. Pair your cuppa with a briny Grilled Halloumi (S$18++); or choose the Brulée French Toast (S$18++) if you’ve got a sweet tooth.
And with the place transforming into Fat Belly steakhouse at dusk, it’s a seamless changeover to more socially acceptable after-hour delights, so you can keep the drinks coming.
Elixir Boutique Roasters is located at 10 Jln Serene, #01-03A, Singapore 258748, p. +65 6314 2247. Opens Thu-Tue 8.30am-3.30pm.