The opening of matcha and coffee specialty shop KYŌ Kohee in the CBD area reminds me of the early days of Matchaya and Hvala.
They were small takeaway stores offering quality grade Matcha Latte, and there was something ‘zen’ and calm about the whole vibes.
KYŌ Kohee is located at Robinson Road, mainly a takeaway concept offering specialty coffee, Japanese tea, freshly baked ‘tasties’ and sweets.
The owners created this space wanting to bring the balance of ‘slow and simple’ in the busy and vibrant office area.
There was a constant flow of customers both times I visited, with two ladies behind the counter preparing the drinks.
Drinks on the menu include Black ($4.50), White ($5.50), Mocha ($6) and Iced KYŌ Coffee ($6.90); while non-coffee options being Chocolate Milk ($5.90), Cold Brew Royal Milk Tea ($5.90), Chamomile ($4), and Mint ($4).
Beans are sourced from Allpress, and the latte had medium body, rich chocolate notes without being too acidic.
The Iced KYŌ coffee (6.9) which was an iced coffee latte with a twist turned out to be refreshingly enjoyable.
Before pouring the double espresso into the milk, they whisk a little of their house-made signature caramel sauce into the double espresso creating a foamy and creamy texture.
The burst of distinctive caramel flavour reminded me a little of the Iced Gula Melaka Kopi from a local beverage chain, though this caramel had a pleasant bitter-sweet lingering taste which paired well with the coffee beans’ chocolatey notes.
They also recommend customers to top up $1 to have the regular milk changed to Hokkaido milk for a creamier, tastier and fuller mouthfeel.
The tea series are specially imported from Japan, and included Matcha Okumidori Latte ($6.90) and Hojicha Latte ($5.90).
The Matcha Latte was rich and smoothy, with mellow matcha flavour with a hint of sweetness. Nice.
For those who enjoy a ‘cleaner’ taste, there are also brew teas such as Sencha Yabukita ($5.9) Tenbone Hoji Tea ($4.90), and Matcha Straight ($5.90).
If you like some sweets to go along, there are Croffles ($3.90), Affogato Ice Cream ($5.90, $6.90) and Tiramisu ($7.90). The Affogato Ice Cream comes with 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream with the choice of either a double espresso shot ($5.90) or matcha / hojicha shot ($6.90).
When working can feel like a mad rush, having a little space like this where you wait and see your Matcha Latte being made, can be a way to relax, slow down and enjoy life.
KYŌ Kohee Singapore
144 Robinson Road, #01-01, Singapore 068908
Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm (Mon – Fri), 8am – 1pm (Sat), Closed Sun, PH
Other Related Entries
Matchaya (Takashimaya)
Cafe Kuriko (Funan)
Hvala (Craig Road)
Suzuki Gourmet Coffee (Chin Bee Avenue)
Cafe Aux Bacchanales (Plaza Singapura)
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