There's probably no better place to get your drinks on with friends after work. Have your dinner first, and head over (before 9 please) to get pampered with a mani-pedi, then move over to the bar and stay till late to enjoy some wonderful gin cocktails. Doesn't the Lady Marmalade - oolong infused gin, lavender and marmalade sound awesome?

There's probably no better place to get your drinks on with friends after work. Have your dinner first, and head over (before 9 please) to get pampered with a mani-pedi, then move over to the bar and stay till late to enjoy some wonderful gin cocktails. Doesn't the Lady Marmalade - oolong infused gin, lavender and marmalade sound awesome?

Committed to bringing you specially-crafted cocktails with a strong emphasis on local flavours, this bar boasts a uniquely Singaporean take on their cocktails with flavours you'd never think could be combined with alcohol. Some favourites include their signature chilli crab cocktail, bak kwa cocktail, and durian cocktail ($22). Mars Bar now operates in The Duxton Hotel lobby until October 2014, so hurry down to get your fix of local flavours in seemingly absurd but surprisingly delicious concoctions.

With a consistently high standards of food at good value, it's no surprise D.O.C is packed to the brim on weekends (make reservations). Go for the buttermilk waffles if you're in the mood for something sweet, or the breakfast platter that never fails to please. Now serving dinners on Thursdays and Fridays, you can come by after work for a comforting, rustic meal. Photo by Charlene Tan

Artichoke is one of those cafes you go to for a full-on meal, and is known for packing in surprising Middle Eastern flavors in the best ways possible. Hidden in a gorgeous courtyard, this gem is perfect for brunch or dinner. Go for the Mezze Platter or Lamb Shakshuka for brunch, and the Sultan's Delight for dinner. Finish off with the baklava samplers from Overdoughs next door. Don't forget to make reservations! Photo by Jayne Tan

With an obvious passion for serving the freshest food, you'll be guaranteed a wholesome, seductive meal of Nordic goodness, starting with freshly-baked rye and sourdough breads at Gaest. Go for the roast pork sandwich, or the salt-boiled potato sandwich for an unbelievable tasty vegetarian option, or any of their salads. The perfect pick-me-up lunch with a great coffee on a rough day in the CBD! Photo by Alain Foodology

Brunch in this brick-walled space is always a lovely affair, from the ambience to the well-executed food. Favourites include the Flan ($23), pork cheek confit with sauteed mushrooms, a perfectly poached egg, and a mountain of rocket sitting in a light pastry shell. The truffle fries are so delightful, it's worth popping by anytime you're in the neighborhood! Finish off with their decadent waffles. Photo by Jennifer Yeo

This newly opened cafe in Clarke Quay certainly brightens up your mood with their vibrant yellow cups and cheerful ambience. They serve premium coffee pulled from the top-of-the-line La Marzocco Strada machine, along with simple pastries, waffles and ciabatta lunch sets. Give their signature "Croiffins" (a croissant-muffin hybrid) a try if you're up for something new! Photo by Sheryl Sherbakes

Tucked away in a cosy corner of the OId Badminton Hall, Brawn & Brains makes you feel right at home once you step in, complete with friendly smiles and warm greetings. With a delightfully unpretentious vibe, you can either enjoy a quick and delicious lunch bite, or stick around with a book and enjoy a great latte and homemade Earl Grey pound cake. Photo by Huixuan Tan

While located on a busy road, Assembly Coffee manages to remain a lovely little nook full of natural light and good vibes. You'll feel instantly transported in this cosy hideout, complete with good coffee from Liberty beans. Treat yourself to a fluffy Salted Caramel Waffle while reading your favourite book. Photo by Huixuan Tan

A calming environment with the perfect mix of vintage and industrial, Lola's is a great spot for a casual brunch. Their honey paprika wings are a hit, along with their trusty eggs ben. Pick a nice cider from their wide selection to go with your wings, and kick back for a relaxing weekend. Photo by gninethree G93

It's no surprise Ronin serves the best coffee in town, along with sister cafes The Plain and The Bravery. Boasting an ambience of of dark mystery, this is a place for quiet time alone, or a relaxing brunch with your best friend. Go for the French toast, and if you're up for something new, try the Wicked - a genius concoction of mint, chocolate and coffee that comforts your insides like no other. Photo by Alain Foodology