After spending several months looking for a work-friendly cafe along East Coast Road, I eventually visited Monk Brew Club on a Tuesday morning around 9 AM—and it seems like it would have been worth discovering sooner. The space tends to feel less like a typical cafe and more like a thoughtfully designed co working space that happens to have the energy of a busy coffee shop, which many people who work remotely seem to appreciate.
The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a stunning modern-industrial aesthetic that’s both raw and warm. Think raw cement walls paired with cozy wood furniture and deep green accents. The first floor is lively and social, with plenty of seating options including a long communal table drenched in natural light. The street noise adds a gentle hum—not too loud, just enough to keep the energy up. Upstairs, the second floor is a spacious, quieter co working space perfect for digital nomads and the office crowd craving focus. Heads up: the AC up there is on full blast—I definitely needed my jacket for my three-hour work session.
Specialty Coffee and Brunch at Monk Brew Club
Now, what tends to draw me back is usually the specialty coffee and brunch fare, which often feels like it holds its own alongside some of the better spots you’ll find in the city center, places like Plain Vanilla and Tiong Bahru Bakery.
Tre Fontane ($12): This one tends to catch people’s attention. It brings together lemon soda, espresso, and ice cream in a way that feels surprisingly balanced. The citrus usually provides a bright contrast to the rich coffee, while the ice cream gradually creates a smooth, creamy texture that seems to bring the whole drink together nicely.
Cococcino ($8.50): This often appeals to people who enjoy coffee drinks with a twist. It’s coconut water with a layer of thick espresso cream on top. You’ll typically get the sweet, smooth coffee foam first, followed by the light, refreshing coconut base underneath.
For brunch, I tried the Crispy Chicken & Waffle ($22) and it felt like a generous, satisfying choice that tends to work well for people looking for something hearty. The chicken had what seemed like good seasoning with a nice crunch to it, and the meat inside stayed tender in a way that felt just right. The waffle had a pleasant lightness that many people seem to appreciate, with crisp edges that seemed to hold up well with the maple syrup. I also had a taste of the Avocado Toast ($18), which felt like a reliable choice that usually works well for most people.
Social Space and Excellent Service at the Brew Club
On the bright side, the service was top-notch. The staff were genuinely friendly and attentive without being intrusive. My drinks arrived within five minutes, and the food followed about fifteen minutes later.
Power Plugs, Wi-Fi, and Meeting Rooms for Productivity
Pro Tip for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads:
Book your coworking slot in advance. At $10 for a half-day pass, which includes a drink, it’s a smart way to guarantee a seat with easy access to power sockets, charging ports, and fast Wi-Fi—no guilt about overstaying your welcome. Meeting rooms upstairs offer quiet spaces for group calls or brainstorming. Getting here is easy, just a short bus ride or walk from Dakota MRT, with street parking usually available if you drive. Expect to spend around $25 to $35 per person for a coffee and a main.
Monk Brew Club vs. Book Cafe, Plain Vanilla, and Tiong Bahru Bakery
Monk Brew Club tends to stand out as a top cafe on the East Coast, offering what feels like a natural blend of co-working space and coffee bar in a setting that many people seem to find quite appealing, with ample seating that usually accommodates different needs. It often feels like a peaceful place to settle in and focus while still being part of the broader cafe culture here that includes well-regarded spots like The Book Cafe, Plain Vanilla, and Tiong Bahru Bakery. Whether you’re in the mood for a cappuccino, tea, or something sweet, the service generally feels reliable and the menu tends to work well for lunch time or those easy, unhurried catch-ups.
If you want to know more about The Book Cafe, click here.
Final Verdict: The East Coast’s Ideal Brew Club for Work and Socializing
To wrap up, Monk Brew Club is the perfect place for anyone wanting to work, chill, or socialize in a welcoming atmosphere with good food, great coffee, and all the essentials to keep your study or work session productive and enjoyable. It’s a rare gem that combines social buzz with the work-friendly cafe elements that digital nomads and office folks appreciate. If you’re looking for power outlets, long communal tables, and a coffee bar that’s anything but average, this East Coast spot is a must-visit. Its central location near Joo Chiat Road makes it easy to reach, and the outdoor seating options add to the appeal for those who prefer to sit outside. Just one downside is that it can get a bit crowded during peak brunch fare hours on weekends, but the ample seating and lounge-like vibe usually make up for it. Note that the dessert offerings are pretty good too, making it a personal favourite for those looking to combine work and leisure in Singapore’s vibrant cafe scene.
