Kopi (Coffee) Ordering Guide: How to Order Like a Singaporean!
- WeaveAsia SEO
- May 2
- 6 min read
You’re standing in line at a local kopitiam, the unmistakable aroma of roasted beans filling the air. You hear someone shout, “Kopi C siew dai!” and the aunty behind the counter doesn’t even flinch. You start to panic. What on earth did they just say? More importantly… how do you order your kopi?
Welcome to Singapore, where coffee isn't just coffee – it's a whole language of its own.
If you’ve ever wondered how to order kopi (Malay for coffee) at a kopitiam like a true local, this kopi ordering guide will sort you right out. Whether you're in town for a short trip or planning to live like a local, knowing how to get your caffeine fix the Singaporean way is a must. It’s fun, easy to pick up, and it might just earn you a few approving nods from the kopi uncles.
Say This, Not That – The Secret Lingo Behind Your Cup
In Singapore, we don’t say “coffee with milk”. We have our own system. One that's fast, efficient, and oddly satisfying.
The word kopi itself means coffee with condensed milk by default. But start adding modifiers, and you’ll unlock an entire menu of custom coffee orders – just as impressive in its own way as any café chain.
Here’s your cheat sheet for basic kopi and tea lingo.
Ordering a drink at a local kopitiam isn’t so scary when you know these basic words. You can mix and match them to customise your drink.
For example, if you want an iced coffee with condensed milk but want it less sweet, you can say, “One kopi siew dai peng, please.” Or, if you like your coffee black and hot without sugar, you can say, “Kopi O kosong.”
Still a bit confused? Don’t worry! Take a look at this quick guide to some of the most common kopi orders.
Yep, it's that specific. Locals don’t play when it comes to their kopi orders.
Want Something More Unique? Try Kopi Cham
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, ask for kopi cham (sometimes called yuan yang). What’s that, you ask? It’s a mix of kopi and teh – coffee and tea in one cup.
Sounds weird? Maybe. But it works.
The rich, bold notes of coffee blend surprisingly well with the floral, slightly tannic flavour of local tea. The result is a smoother, more rounded drink that’s less intense than kopi gao but still gives you that caffeine kick.
Locals enjoy kopi cham hot or iced, and you can still modify it with extras like:
Kopi cham peng – iced version
Kopi cham siew dai – less sugar
Kopi cham C – with evaporated milk
Kopi cham siew dai tarik peng – iced version, less sweet, and pulled for that smooth frothy finish.
It’s a great intro to local drinks if you can’t decide between kopi or teh. And yes, it’s pronounced “chahm”, like the start of “charm”.
Iced or Hot? Know What to Say Without Holding Up the Queue
Tourists often stumble here – understandably! If you want your kopi iced, just add peng at the end of your coffee order.
No need for “Can I have an iced kopi O, please?” That’s not how Singaporeans order their kopi at the local kopitiam. And that’s exactly why you’re reading this blog – to blend right in!
For example, if you want a “Cold kopi C with less sugar,” just say, “Kopi C siew dai peng.” Easy, right?
If you like it stronger than usual, just add gao. So, “Kopi gao peng” is a strong iced kopi with condensed milk.
There’s even kopi gu you – kopi with a slab of butter in it. Sounds odd, but some swear by the richness and creamy texture it adds to the drink. Give it a try if you're feeling adventurous!
And if you’re grabbing your coffee to go? Just say da bao (pronounced dah-bao). That’s the local term for takeaway.
You’ll get your drink in a plastic bag, often with a string tied or attached to it for easy carrying. Some places may serve it in a plastic cup, especially if you're ordering iced drinks. It’s the simplest way to take your kopi or teh on the move!
If you’re eco-conscious, feel free to bring your own cup or tumbler.
Planning your morning coffee run? Pop by Fu Kang Coffee Shop in Bukit Merah or Bedok and try ordering your kopi like a local. It’s a great way to experience Singapore beyond the tourist trail.
What Makes Kopitiam Kopi So Unique?
First of all, it’s not your usual café brew. Kopitiam coffee is brewed the traditional Nanyang way. The beans are roasted with sugar and margarine, and sometimes maize or butter. This gives the coffee its rich, toasty flavour and thick, robust texture.
It’s brewed using a sock-like cloth filter (called a “kopi sock”) in metal pots. No fancy machines. Just tried-and-tested tradition. That’s why kopi tastes different from what you might get back home.
At neighbourhood spots like Fu Kang Coffee Shop, you’ll find old-school kopi served just the way it has been for generations. That familiar clink of glass mugs, the quick smile as your kopi slides across the counter – there’s nothing quite like it.
The Must-Try Pairings for Your Kopi Order
You can’t just sip kopi on its own (well, you can, but where’s the fun in that?). Locals pair it with:
Kaya toast and soft-boiled eggs – The classic breakfast combo
Butter toast – Just warm bread, real butter, and nothing else
You tiao (fried dough sticks) – Dip them straight into your kopi if you’re feeling adventurous
Fu Kang Coffee Shop also serves up these nostalgic bites. It’s the kind of place where the locals know their regulars and the staff still smile when you fumble your first order.
Try the kaya toast set with Kopi C peng at Fu Kang Coffee Shop – simple, satisfying, and very Singaporean. It’s a delicious way to kick-start your morning before you set off to explore The Lion City.
Not a Fan of Coffee? Here’s Your Teh (Tea) Pro Tip
Not big on coffee? No problem. In Singapore, teh is tea. And just like kopi, you can customise it your way.
By default, teh is black tea with condensed milk. Want it less sweet? Say teh siew dai. Prefer it without milk? Order teh O. Like it iced? Add peng at the end.
For example, if you want an iced tea without milk and less sugar, just say, “Teh O siew dai peng.” It’s easier than it sounds, and once you try it, you’ll feel like a local.
In short, just change kopi to teh to get the tea version of the coffee drink. You can use the coffee cheat sheet above and turn it into the tea version.
Afraid to Mess It Up? Here’s What Locals Actually Do
Here’s a little secret: even some locals still mess up their kopi orders now and then. But no one’s judging. If you’re unsure, just ask the stall auntie or uncle – they’re usually more than happy to explain. In fact, they’ll likely teach you a thing or two.
You can even point to someone’s drink and say, “Same kopi, can?” Totally acceptable. Singaporeans love kopi talk, and they respect someone willing to try.
Another Kopitiam Tip for You: Always return the tray after. It’s polite, expected, and shows you respect the culture.
One Last Sip Before You Go
So there you go, your ultimate kopi ordering guide to navigating the coffee culture in Singapore. From kopi O kosong to kopi C siew dai peng, you’re all set to order like a local and maybe even impress a few Singaporeans along the way.
Still unsure? Drop by Fu Kang Coffee Shop in Bukit Merah or Bedok, take your time, and let the kopi aunties or uncles guide you. Soak in the good kopi and even better vibes.
Curious about what else we have to offer? Visit our website to check out all the delicious food stall options at both our Bukit Merah and Bedok branches.
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