To be honest, I was a bit nervous on my first visit to Toby’s Estate. I’d only ever heard about it from serious coffee enthusiasts, and I wasn’t sure if it was a place for someone like me—a complete coffee ignoramus (or, as some might say, a noob). However, I’m grateful that Smitten pointed me in this direction because I’ve now found a new spot to work, relax, and enjoy some seriously good coffee.

Walking into Toby’s Estate, I felt like an outsider. My limited knowledge of coffee left me feeling out of place as I slipped into a seat against the wall, avoiding eye contact with the seemingly expert crowd. A friendly waitress handed me a menu full of coffee choices that seemed more like a test of knowledge than a list of drinks. Sheepishly, I asked, “Which one’s the least lethal?”

I settled on a smooth, comforting latte.

With my order placed, I had a moment to take in the ambiance. Several things immediately caught my eye: the bright sunlight streaming through the large windows, the towering stacks of coffee sacks piled against a rugged brick wall, and the impressive steel coffee roaster with its silver vents stretching through the ceiling. In a city where space is often cramped, the airiness of this Australian-style café (their first outlet in Asia) felt liberating.

Learning About Coffee

I was lucky enough to encounter a kind soul during my first visit. Terence Tan, head barista at Toby’s Estate Singapore, noticed my cluelessness and graciously took me under his wing. He started me off with the safe choice of a latte and gave me a quick crash course on coffee beans and brewing methods. Terence has been perfecting his craft behind the bar for over seven years, and his dedication is evident in the rich, aromatic cup he presented to me.

“I started learning about coffee when I was 19, and it’s been a journey of discovering the wide range of flavors coffee has to offer,” he explained. “I love what I do—it’s about wanting to pull that perfect shot every time.” Despite having been on his feet all day, Terence sat down with me at 4 pm, still buzzing with energy—perhaps from the coffee, the passion, or a mix of both.

While I may not yet be a coffee connoisseur, Terence got me curious enough to start Googling terms like “single origins vs blends” and comparing them to my knowledge of tea. For those who are truly passionate, Toby’s Estate offers regular coffee tasting sessions where you can dive deeper into the world of specialty coffee.

A Place to Laze Around

Toby’s Estate isn’t just a place for coffee aficionados; it’s also a haven for people like me who enjoy spending time in cozy cafés. Not only do they offer free Wi-Fi, but they also provide power sockets at the large, sanded communal table—perfect for those of us who like to settle in for a bit of work or relaxation.

On my second visit, this time in the morning, I was surrounded by a symphony of sounds: the clattering of plates, the hiss of milk frothing, and the cheerful ring of the bell announcing fresh coffee orders. All of this mingled with lively conversation and background music, creating an atmosphere of blissful productivity.

Though the café has an industrial-chic décor, the vibe is incredibly laid-back, embodying the relaxed Aussie charm. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching, eavesdropping on conversations, or slowly chipping away at work while enjoying a delicious meal. I can already tell I’ll be a regular here, but first, I’ve got to check out the next place on my list: Nylon Coffee Roasters.

Whether you’re seeking exceptional specialty coffee, a source of creative inspiration, or simply a break from the hustle of crowded city cafés, Toby’s Estate is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers and café enthusiasts alike.