40 hands

If I could put 40 hands together for 40 hands coffee, I would; But I don’t have so many hands. Hah.

Tucked away in a corner of Yong Siak Street, 40 hands is a respite from the bustle of heartland and downtown malls. My grandparents used to live in the charming Art Deco themed Tiong Bahru estate, and whenever we visited, one could feel the stoicism and tranquility that sets it apart from the rest. So when I went to this cafe for the first time, it brought back some good memories.

Anyways, was introduced this place by Q (he is my trusty source of makan joints and whatnot), and we actually went there on the 3rd day of CNY, but it was closed when we got there. Unwilling to give up, the same group of us went again weeks later, and finally got to try their much publicized kopi! We sat at the little courtyard behind, which was seriously a tad too warm if you ask me. However, the aircon inside the main part of the cafe doesn’t justify sitting inside, because it felt a bit stuffy there, so basically, I conclude that sitting at the seats outside (facing Books Actually) is the best. I know this to be true because recently, I went back again, this time with Ter, and we sat outside, right below a ceiling fan. Shiok.

40 hands, like PPP and Loysel’s Toy, is a champion of fair trade and sustainability in the coffee industry, so every cup of coffee that you enjoy, has gone through (in very civil service terms) the proper channels to get to you. There is nothing to complain about their coffee, though the second time when I went, I thought the acidic aftertaste of my cappuccino was a wee bit strong. But other than that, my friends and I have only good things to say about their coffee. Read from their website that their baristas undergo months of intensive training, so no blind button-pressing (that would be me and my Nespresso!). They have divine truffle fries btw! Much better than PS Cafe’s, in my opinion.

I usually only drink cappuccinos, but the occasional espresso is nice too. 

Truffle fries!

Even if you are not big on coffee, 40 hands is good for brunch and truffle fries as well. After a nice cuppa, you can take a stroll in the surrounding estate and infuse yourself in its nostalgic charm, or swing by Books Actually opposite; they have vintage knick knacks and classic Penguin paperbacks. And oh, remember to display sufficient parking coupon if you are driving. Apparently the parking aunties usually come out after 6pm, as advised by a resident of the estate. Caveat emptor wrt the advice!

f0rty h4nds
78 Yong Siak St, #01-12 Tiong Bahru
round the other side of the block, facing the new Regency condos
Tuesdays, Sundays 8.30am to 6.30pm
Wednesdays, Thursdays 8.30am to 10pm
Friday, Saturdays 8.30am to 11pm
Closed Mondays
Email: info@40handscoffee.com
Tel: +65 6225 8545