Located on Telok Ayer Street in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, Free the Robot is a very grungy café that is endearing in every sense of the word. It is unpretentious, down to earth, and just serves great food and coffee.
The Ambience, Service and the Staff
You would be forgiven if you just walked past Free the Robot. There is nothing to suggest that this is a café from the outside. As you step in, you’re greeted by a semi-restored shop house that appears to have part of the original floor which has been patched up with concrete in certain sections.
Some walls have been finished, decorated with elaborate graphic murals. Other sections are rough, exposed brick and mortar. The furniture is a combination of minimalist wood and steel, and a modern bar where coffee and drinks are served. The inside of the café has a skylight which has been covered with transparent roofing flooding the place with lots of natural light.
The restaurant is also decorated with quirky merchandise that is part of the café’s branding.
We were a party of two who walked in and were greeted by the staff who seated us promptly and explained the specials and chef’s recommendations.
Orders are placed at the counter and water is self served.
The staff are very helpful and friendly.
The Food
We ordered the Mum’s Chicken and the Barramundi. The Chicken came out first. It was cooked to perfect with a crispy skin and moist flesh. It was served with truffle fries and a tomato salsa.
The Barramundi took about 10 minutes longer. It was beautifully cooked, with light, flaky flesh, served on a bed of mashed potatoes and green beans.
Portions were generous and the food tasted amazing.
The Price Point
Our two mains set us back just over $40 – great value for this quality of food in this part of town.
The Final Verdict
Free the Robot is a café that will appeal to you and one that you will want to continue to go back to. They strictly serve breakfast, lunch and coffee and close at 4:30pm. A great place to meet up with friends and colleagues for coffee, breakfast, brunch, and lunch.
Address: 118 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068587.
Phone: +65 6438 1836.
Website: http://www.freetherobotcoffee.com/
