After what felt like a never-ending wave of new cafes popping up all over the island, I had grown a little cynical about the whole scene. They all seemed to blur into one: coffee, cakes, and curated aesthetics that felt more for Instagram than for the soul. But then The Brewing Ground caught my attention, and something about it told me to take a chance. I’m so glad I trusted that instinct because what followed was pure joy.
I decided to visit on a weekday—it’s the best time, I heard, since weekends can be a madhouse. Hidden within The Yards at Joo Chiat, it’s not the easiest spot to stumble upon unless you have kids attending workshops in the building. But leave it to Singaporeans to sniff out great food; by the time I arrived, the cafe was buzzing as if it were a public holiday.
The menu is simple yet inviting, with classic brunch dishes and some creative twists. Skepticism aside, I started with the Avocado & Ricotta Tartine, adding a side of Thick Cut Maple Bacon. Now, let me start with that bacon because, wow, it deserves the spotlight. Thick, smoky, sticky with maple, and absolutely indulgent, it’s the kind of thing that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. I’ve rarely seen maple bacon on a menu here, and this one? Perfection.
The tartine itself was just as spectacular. Think creamy avocado generously seasoned, layered with tangy pickled radish, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, almond flakes, and ricotta, all on top of perfectly toasted sourdough. Each bite was a burst of flavors and textures, keeping me hooked from start to finish. It wasn’t just avocado toast—it was an experience.
Next came the Breakfast Burger, and oh my goodness, what a treat. Imagine soft, buttery brioche buns cradling a juicy pork sausage patty, fluffy scrambled eggs, sweet caramelized onions, cheddar, and a dreamy ketchup-mayo sauce. Add a crispy hashbrown on the side, and you’ve got a breakfast worth writing songs about. Every element was cooked and seasoned perfectly, making it almost too good to share (not that I did).
Not everything was a hit, though. The Crabmeat Tagliatelle didn’t quite live up to the hype. While the pasta was well-cooked, the lemon butter sauce was too thin to cling to the tagliatelle, leaving it feeling a bit mismatched. The lack of bold seasoning didn’t help either, and it paled compared to the earlier dishes.
I loved The Brewing Ground so much that I returned the very next week for my birthday brunch! If that doesn’t scream how special this place is, I don’t know what does.
From the welcoming vibes to the thoughtfully prepared dishes, The Brewing Ground isn’t just another cafe—it’s a gem. If you’re planning a visit, aim for a weekday and make a reservation, because this place is gaining traction fast. And me? I don’t think I can ever look at avocado toast—or brunch, for that matter—the same way again.
Address: 406 Joo Chiat Pl, #01-24 The Yards, Singapore 428084
Hour : 8.30am to 5.00pm everyday
