Alchemist just made its international debut, opening two new coffee outlets in Tokyo, specifically in the Aoyama and historic Asakusa neighborhoods.
There’s no denying it: Singaporeans love their coffee. From early morning brews to late-night study fuel, coffee culture is deeply woven into daily life. Just look around the city, and you’ll see how every corner and alley seems to host a new café, buzzing with students, professionals, creatives, and casual coffee lovers alike. Whether you’re sipping on a smooth, caramel-sweet cappuccino or going old-school with a bold cup of kopi, there’s something for everyone.
It truly reflects Singapore’s East-meets-West identity. Traditional flavors and modern innovations coexist, creating a rich, diverse café scene. While international coffee chains have made their mark, many Singaporeans still gravitate to something familiar and close to heart: homegrown brands capturing the city’s unique spirit.
One such brand? Alchemist Coffee.
From a Tiny Coffee Stand to International Expansion
Founded in 2016 by entrepreneur and barista Will Leow, Alchemist started as a humble 4-square-meter coffee stand in Singapore’s Central Business District. The vision was simple but ambitious: serve great coffee, done right.
Fast forward to today, Alchemist has grown into a name synonymous with quality and craft. With 11 locations across Singapore—including their flagship store at The Heeren on Orchard Road—the brand has earned its well-deserved loyal following. Coffee fans love them for their meticulous roasting methods, small-batch quality, and in-season beans sourced from all over the world. Their menu also includes coffee capsules, beans for home brewing, and even tea options.
And now, Alchemist has gone global. Its first stop? Tokyo, Japan.
Here’s What You Need to Know About Singapore’s Alchemist Coffee Debut in Tokyo, Japan
In late June, Alchemist opened its first two international outlets in Tokyo. This marked a huge milestone for the brand. The new cafés are located in two iconic neighborhoods: Aoyama and Asakusa. Aoyama is known for its upscale shopping and minimalist aesthetic. Asakusa, conversely, is a historic district blending old-world charm with modern energy.
The Aoyama outlet is a cozy 140 sqm space with seating for 30. Meanwhile, the Asakusa café offers more room to lounge, with 200 sqm of space and 70 seats. Both locations serve over 10 varieties of coffee, with prices ranging from ¥600 to ¥1,200, offering both accessibility and artisanal quality.
In a statement, founder Will Leow shared: “We’ve always admired Japan’s deep-rooted coffee culture and attention to detail. Our mission has always been to create a moment of connection over coffee. Expanding into Tokyo felt like a natural step forward for us, and we’re humbled by the warm reception from the local community. We are excited to share our vision with coffee lovers in Japan—a country that already has such a deep and refined appreciation for quality and craft.”
This expansion is truly a meaningful growth not only for the brand but also for Singapore’s deep and innate love towards coffee culture. It’s embarking on a journey in a market that values precision, ritual, and authenticity. It’s a bold move, but one that feels perfectly aligned with what Alchemist stands for.
The Global Journey Continues
With plans to open 10 international stores by 2028, this is just the beginning of Alchemist’s global journey. As they continue to grow, one thing remains at the heart of their mission: to create meaningful moments through coffee.
Because we all know coffee is more than just a drink. It fosters connection. It offers comfort. This daily ritual grounds us and brings us together. Wherever you are in the world, in Singapore or Tokyo, a perfect cup awaits you, like those from Alchemist.
