Free the Robot is like a transformer. You know, like the type that fights for Cybertron but doesn’t actually mange to hit anything with its laser. During the days the venue functions as a quirky cafe; at nights it turns into Bitter and Love, a fun cocktail bar.
We visited the place on both occasions, and while its location remains the same, the vibe, atmosphere, and even the physical space is completely different! If someone would have magically teleported me inside I would never have guess this is the exact same place. It’s such a brilliant idea, I wish more places would adopt it.
During our Singapore trip we were staying in China Town so the short walk to Free the Robot was a great way to open our morning and get some caffeine to brave the hot and humid day ahead of us. If you are the type to rise early you’ll be glad to know the place will probably already be open.
In its morning/coffee shop configuration, there are a few tables inside and a bar facing the street where you can peek outside through a tiny window, which also allows for great photo-ops.
Look around you: Robots galore! The place is full of quirky, creative art and other knick-knacks.
Let’s get down to the food business. On a chalk board you can see the entire menu. I think everyone can find something to suit his\her morning: Avocado Toastie, Burger, Chia Seed Pudding, Classic Egg Mayo and more.
It’s hard for me to say no to a sweet dish that incorporate bacon so of course I went with the “healthiest” option on the menu: French toast with bacon, blueberries and maple (6 SGD / $4.5 / 16₪).
For drinks I ordered the Free the Robot Signature (7 SGD / $5 / 18.5₪) and Opher ordered the Chilled Vanilla Robone (6 SGD / $4.5 / 16₪). Their signature coffee is based on coconut oil, which might not be to everybody’s taste, but I enjoyed it very much.
After we finished with our food and drinks we went for a second round – this time we tasted their fresh juices. Their juices don’t contain any extra sugar; they let the fruits do the job. The owner recommended the kale but since I’m not the biggest fan, we went with some less green-y options: Coconut and Chia Seed and Orange raspberry and Strawberry (combined cost – 15 SGD / $11 / 39.5₪).
Both juices were really good – I especially like that they added a slice of orange and coconut chunks.
Fiona, one of the owners, was so hospitable. She prompted us to return in the evening and we sure glad we did! In its night/pub configuration, Free the Robot transforms into Bitter and Love. The place then sprouts a bar and a long row of booths bathed by dark moody lighting. It offers a myriad of interesting cocktails while trendy, uplifting music plays in the background. 
Still at the venue, Fiona was lovely as ever (when does this girl ever sleep?) and told us a bit about the history of the place. They moved to this location around 2 years ago, making the regulars really happy as the new location is now closer to them. She explained her presence in the mornings as well as in the evenings is important for her to maintain relationship with the customers.
Free the Robot/Bitter and Love has an amazing concept and great atmosphere any time of day. The owners definitely care – and it shows in the food, the service and the decor. If I’m ever in Singapore again I’m bound to return.
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