Tucked away in the center of Serangoon North, First Story Cafe is a beacon of inclusivity and purpose rather than just another place to get your caffeine fix. This flagship cafe, which was founded in January 2023 by Foreword Coffee Roasters, skillfully combines artisanal coffee with a mission to empower people with mental health conditions and disabilities by providing them with meaningful employment opportunities.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | First Story Cafe |
| Location | 149 Serangoon North Ave 1, #01-917, Singapore 550149 |
| Operating Hours | Monday–Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM (Last food order at 4:30 PM) |
| Founded By | Foreword Coffee Roasters |
| Specialties | Specialty Coffee, Waffles, Gelato, All-Day Brunch, Rice Bowls |
| Mission | Empowering differently-abled individuals through inclusive employment |
| Official Website | forewordcoffee.com/our-cafes |
Creating Change: First Story Cafe’s Vision
Since 2017, the parent company, Foreword Coffee Roasters, has been a pioneer in Singapore’s social enterprise scene. Approximately 80% of their team is made up of people with disabilities, demonstrating that their commitment to inclusivity is more than just a statement. This philosophy is demonstrated by First Story Cafe, which provides a setting where each cup of coffee adds to a greater story of community integration and empowerment.
A Menu That Speaks Volumes
Beyond its commendable mission, First Story Cafe delights patrons with a diverse menu:
- All-Day Brunch: Options like the Avocado Toast and Smoked Salmon on sourdough are both hearty and health-conscious.
- Rice Bowls: From Teriyaki Chicken to Miso Salmon, each bowl is crafted with a balance of flavors and nutrition.
- Desserts: Indulge in Belgian waffles topped with gelato, a perfect treat for any time of the day.
- Specialty Drinks: The Timeless Yuan Yang, a blend of double ristretto and Earl Grey tea, offers a unique twist to traditional beverages .
Creating Possibilities: The Human Factor
First Story Cafe’s commitment to giving jobs and training to people who are frequently underrepresented in the workforce is its fundamental principle. Employees are more than just employees; they are essential storytellers of the cafe’s mission, each contributing their own narratives and strengths.
Table of Reviews
| Reviewer | Visit Type | Menu Highlight | Comment Summary | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eden Tan | Coffee & Work | Coffee, Wraps | Great for working and snacking, friendly staff and chill vibe | ★★★★★ |
| J9 | Brunch | Latte (Thursday special) | Exceptionally good coffee for just $4, very relaxing atmosphere | ★★★★★ |
| Sylvia Ang | Lunch | Waffles, Coffee | Cozy setting, food and drink quality are consistently good | ★★★★☆ |
| Evangeline Neo (Evacomics) | Casual Visit | Iced White, Yuan Yang | Coffee was nice, but food options were limited due to waffle machine issue | ★★★☆☆ |
| Keat Kean Lee | Dessert | Waffle with Hojicha Mochi Gelato | Beautifully balanced dessert—texturally interesting and flavor-packed | ★★★★★ |
| Vivienne | Afternoon Snack | Waffles (Unavailable), Ice Cream (Low) | Disappointed with limited menu options and nearly empty freezer | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Quinn Chin | Breakfast | Yuan Yang, Local Toast with Soft Eggs | Value-for-money, classic breakfast done well | ★★★★☆ |
| JAO JAO | Breakfast | Coffee & Muffins | Staff inclusion praised; slow service offset by warm atmosphere | ★★★★☆ |
| Sylvia Ang (second visit) | Light Lunch | Gelato, Wraps | Service was fast and consistent on repeat visit | ★★★★☆ |
| Anonymous Google Reviewer | General | Belgian Waffle with Gelato | Especially loved the crunchy-soft waffle combo and variety of gelato flavors | ★★★★★ |
FAQs
Q: What is First Story Cafe?
A: It’s a social enterprise cafe in Serangoon North, Singapore, offering specialty coffee and inclusive employment opportunities.
Q: Who operates First Story Cafe?
A: Foreword Coffee Roasters, a social enterprise committed to empowering differently-abled individuals.
Q: What are the cafe’s operating hours?
A: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the last food order at 4:30 PM.
Q: What specialties does the cafe offer?
A: All-day brunch, rice bowls, Belgian waffles, gelato, and specialty coffee drinks.
Q: How does the cafe support its mission?
A: By providing training and employment to individuals with disabilities and mental health conditions.
