Maison Ikkoku | Review

The buzz: A refreshing 4,000 sq. ft. coffee joint/fashion boutique around Arab Street—it’s about time the fledgling area got its cool back.

The vibe: “Artisanal” is the keyword here. Downstairs is where you can grab a cuppa (freshly brewed from Brazilian and Ethiopian coffee beans, a fact that the pair of husband-and-wife owners Thomas Ho/Janice Ong and Franz Chua/Shanie Teoh are extremely proud of) before you browse through some seriously chic menswear upstairs. The décor (downstairs and up) also sets the tone with its raw and polished fixtures featuring white brick walls, exposed industrial copper piping, weathered cupboard doors and table tops, and lush pin-cushioned seating—all very post-modern vintage.

The goods: We dig the debut of Japanese labels Hobo and Nuggets here, especially the former for its cool workwear-inspired leather wallets and copper keychains ($129 upwards). Also look out for preppy shoes from Twins ($180 upwards)—for every pair sold, another pair of the same will be donated to charity—as well as ready-to-wear and accessories from cult label Discovered.

Why you’ll be back: This is one of the few coffee places that also offers you some seriously cool fashion collections, making it a great place to spend a lazy Saturday.