Until today, I still can’t quite wrap my head around what makes a cafe Korean-inspired. Is it the distinctly minimalist interior or a menu that bears a striking resemblance to one of the many scattered across Seoul? 

With that said, it’s time to strike another Korean-inspired cafe off the list with today’s visit to NOWAFTER Cafe, a new joint that opened on the third level of Design Orchard this month. 

While the cafe itself is pretty spacious, I find most of the tables to be placed rather near each other, almost in a way that makes it easier to observe each new customer. It’s also relatively tucked away from the activity on the main street, with surrounding flora to provide some shade from the afternoon sun. It’s a fairly nice space to chill and hang away from the busier side of Orchard Road, although you might find yourself a little close for comfort with the neighbouring table. 

NOWAFTER Cafe’s menu is simple and focused, with savoury and sweet bakes, as well as a selection of ice cream to accompany their waffles. Do expect the menu to change from time to time, with new creations being released along with limited-edition pins that you can collect! 

Stepping in, I was hit by a distinct aroma of garlic and cheese from the cafe’s signature item, the Charkey Bun ($13). Each one is heated on order, so customers can enjoy it in its fluffy, cheesy glory. I was also surprised to find it relatively light in spite of the rich flavours and ingredients in its cream-filled center, namely mozzarella, garlic herbs butter, and sour cream. 

The “bun” also consists of five to six smaller charcoal buns which you can pull out and enjoy with the garlic and cheese cream. Making it more of a small snack than an actual meal. For desserts and waffles, look no further than the aptly-named “after” portion of the menu.

Charkey Bun ($13)

With Korean-inspired cafes a dime a dozen, NOWAFTER has its work cut out for standing out from the competition. The Matcha Einspänner ($9.50, +$1 for Oat Milk) is a more matcha and milk-forward drink that brings Hellu Coffee and its decadently-sweet beverages to mind. 

Matcha Einspänner ($9.50, +$1 for Oat Milk)

Running a cafe is no easy feat, especially in the face of stiff competition. You have to hand it to the team who seem pretty earnest in making sure every experience delivers – I appreciated that they remembered to ask if I wanted normal or oat milk with my coffee, as most cafes tend to assume their customers’ dairy preferences. NOWAFTER Cafe is dine-in only, though it’s not too bad a spot to sit back and chill with their lofi playlist. 

Address:  250 Orchard Road, Design Orchard, 03-01, Singapore 238905
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Nearest MRT: Somerset NS23
Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm daily

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