Hello 2012! Amongst our many resolutions, which yes, included a promise to ourselves to be kinder to our bodies, we also wanted to get out more and try new things- coffees, teas, brunch and all that jazz. As part of an ad hoc feature on the cafes we love, here are our picks for January, the month of hope and new beginnings.

Read our list for December here.

1. Much lauded for their homeliness and good vibes, indie retreat The Pigeonhole curates an unorthodox collection of second-hand and rare books sourced from around the world, as well as a varied selection of hard-to-find whiskey, wine and ciders. Part underground haven, part art dungeon, The Pigeonhole is the perfect sanctuary from the pell mell of urban life; sink into their vintage furniture (and their tranquil ambience) and write an award-winning novel or two. It also boasts film screenings, poetry readings, art exhibitions, recitals- just to name a few- week after week. All this on top of brewing amazing coffee.

The Pigeonhole is located at 52/53 Duxton Road. The Pigeonhole / Facebook

Image from Nom Nom Nom
2. Right smack behind Zouk and across the bridge lies a little laboratory that cleverly disguises itself as a cafe. The Singaporean branch of world-class Australian gourmet coffee roasters, Toby’s Estate first entices you to take a step closer with their distinct and unique aroma of a freshly brewed cuppa, then hooks you in with their gorgeous space, adorned with murals, wood furnishing and a lip-smacking menu that could cure any hangover. Mad scientists- or rather, baristas- flock behind the counter where vials, test tubes and scales await, preparing to execute the delicate equation that would result in a delightful explosion of the senses.

Toby’s Estate is at 8 Rodyk Street. Toby’s Estate Asia / Facebook

3. Another Duxton Road gem, Group Therapy lives up to its moniker. Owners Deborah and Weilin believe that “the best form of nourishment for one’s soul is sought through inter-personal relationships and connections with people”, and there isn’t a better way to nourish their guests’ souls than with their amicable kindness, food and good drinks. Primarily an events space, the beautifully kitted out Group Therapy not only takes its coffee-brewing very seriously, it also serves a mean breakfast of pancakes, paninis and parmesan bagels (and much, much more). You can thank us later.

Group Therapy is located at 49 Duxton Road, #02-01. GT Coffee / Facebook