Happy International Coffee Day! My resume for coffee is extensive, and arguably, my taste in coffee is the best in the office.
Since 2002, when I’ve professionally stolen my mom’s coffee while she was on a work call, I knew coffee was my calling and caffeine was in my blood (literally).
While I wouldn’t go so far as to prance around as a self-proclaimed coffee guru, I did my due diligence by asking some of my colleagues about their favourite coffee drinks – doing my best, of course, not to judge their choices.
Kenangan Coffee
Ash: I am not a coffee guy, but in my previous company, my friends would queue up for Kenangan Coffee as they really like it. I tried the Caramel Latte (S$4.90), but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
I enjoyed the caramel taste; however, I was confused because it also tasted bitter at the same time. Sometimes life is a bit bitter, and having a coffee might make it better, but not in my case.
Jae’s thoughts: Kenangan Coffee is my favourite chain that I used to frequent whenever I was in Jakarta, Indonesia. However, not liking coffee is a criminal offence, and using a Caramel Latte as the basis for your favourite coffee is not a valid stand. It’s all caramel and inadequate coffee.
Jae’s Ratings: 3/10
Starbucks Singapore
Jess: The coffee I enjoy the most is Starbucks’ Toffee Nut Latte. I’m not someone who usually likes drinks that are too sweet, but this one is something I’m addicted to.
It’s comforting, with a bittersweet balance, and the aroma is simply delicious. Just one sip instantly feels like Christmas — my favourite season — and because it’s only available during the holidays, it makes it all the more coveted.
Jae’s Thoughts: My personal preference for Starbucks is their signature macchiatos or just a regular latte espresso. But Jess’s choice — a seasonal drink that undeniably beats the Pumpkin Spice Latte — is a choice I fully support.
Jae’s Ratings: 7/10
NTUC Fairprice
Yan: It’s not a coffee place, but this G7 3-in-1 Vietnamese Coffee is my favourite. I went on a volunteering trip in Vietnam when I was 15 and brought some home and got my dad hooked. He’s been drinking this ever since (Goodbye, Nescafé!).
I also prefer my coffee sweet, so this is right up my alley, and Vietnamese coffee in general has this fragrant, nutty aroma, which I love. It’s so thick and milky. I usually make it with about 3 quarter of water so it stays thick.
Jae’s Thoughts: I grew up drinking packaged Nescafé, and personally, the only coffee I enjoy from my overseas trips is Coffee Tree Penang White Coffee – Coffee with Creamer (S$6.62).
But if Yan’s father loves it, and I can’t physically argue with an uncle, then perhaps this might be an option I would give a try.
Jae’s Ratings: 6/10, for the heartwarming story
Luckin Coffee
Angelin: I don’t really drink coffee, and I can’t decide which drink to share, so I’ll share both of my favourite drinks from Luckin Coffee — Jasmine Cloud Latte (S$6.80) and Oat Milk Latte (S$4.50).
I like the Jasmine Cloud Latte because of the fragrant Jasmine tea. Meanwhile, the Oat Milk Latte has a rich espresso paired with silky oat milk, giving a nutty aroma, light sweetness, and a smooth finish without the heaviness of dairy. Plus, both drinks are dairy-free as well.
Jae’s Thoughts: I’m the opposite of Angelin; there’s already a clash of opinions here, especially when I dislike Jasmine tea.
However, I believe coffee should be all-inclusive, and it is difficult to find good coffee choices that are suitable for lactose-intolerant people. Plus, Luckin Coffee is more affordable than Starbucks and Kenangan Coffee.
Jae’s Ratings: 5/10
Overall, the team has a good taste of coffee choices. Just typing this article itself makes me thirsty, and I’m lucky enough to have grabbed McDonald’s free coffee earlier.
For safety purposes, Confirm Good does not discriminate against our colleagues’ drink preferences.
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