On November 17, 2023, the unmistakable aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sweet scent of doughnuts filled the air at VivoCity as Tim Hortons, the iconic Canadian coffeehouse chain, marked its grand entry into the heart of Singapore. The bustling crowds, eager to taste Canadian hospitality and Tim Hortons’ renowned offerings, were warmly welcomed at the coffeehouse’s first-ever outlet in the Lion City.
Situated on the first floor, near Bath & Body Works, the Tim Hortons store at VivoCity is adorned with a proud maple leaf and a colossal coffee cup, setting the stage for an immersive Canadian experience. Managed by Marubeni Growth Capital Asia, a subsidiary of the Japanese conglomerate Marubeni Corporation, Tim Hortons has ambitious plans for its foothold in Singapore, with three additional outlets scheduled to open at Nex in December, Suntec City in January, and One Raffles Place in April.
Image from Tim Hortons SG
The Canadian Culinary Journey
Tim Hortons’ menu at VivoCity boasts a curated selection of its Canadian classics, albeit with a local twist. Sourdough Melts sandwiches steal the show, prepared a la minute and featuring tempting flavors such as Maple Glazed Chicken Ham & Cheese, Truffle Mushroom, and Triple Cheese & Caramelized Onion. The latter has emerged as a crowd favourite with its tantalising cheese pull and a harmonious blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and American cheese sauce.
Doughnut enthusiasts can indulge in Timmies’ timeless bestsellers, including the beloved Boston Cream Donut and the innovative Strawberry Belgian White Chocolate Donut. While some may find the doughnuts a tad sweet, the Maple Salted Caramel Donut and Yuzu Lemon Cream Donut stand out, offering a delightful balance of flavours. A nostalgic miss, the Honey Cruller, might be absent from the menu. Still, Tim Hortons compensates with its signature Timbits—bite-sized doughnut balls available in Classic Glaze, Cinnamon Sugar, and Birthday Cake with sprinkles.
For those with a penchant for more than just coffee, Tim Hortons introduces cakes with Singapore-inspired flavours like Ondeh Ondeh, adding a local touch to the global brand.
Image from Tim Hortons SG
Brewing Canadian Coffee Culture
Tim Hortons brings its unique coffee culture to Singapore, introducing the famous “double double” and “triple triple” coffee orders—a classic Canadian way of enjoying coffee with double or triple shots of cream and sugar. The menu also features Signature Lattes, including the intriguing Maple Cinnamon option, and indulgent Iced Capp beverages, available in flavours like Salted Caramel Macchiato and Dark Chocolate Chip Mocha.
During the initial opening period, customers are encouraged to savour the Canadian goodness responsibly, with limits on purchasing doughnuts, Timbits, beverages, and Sourdough Melts.
Beyond Coffee: Tim Hortons Merchandise and Opening Promotions
Beyond the culinary delights, Tim Hortons offers patrons a chance to take home a piece of the Canadian legacy with exclusive merchandise. Tumblers, mugs, and coffee beans, some featuring Singapore-themed designs, are available.
Tim Hortons rolls out generous opening promotions to celebrate its debut in Singapore. The first 100 customers each day from November 17 to 19 receive a complimentary weekly regular-sized Cafe Latte for an impressive six months. As anticipation builds, customers are advised to brace for queues. On the inaugural day, the cafe rewards the 101st to 200th customers with exclusive Tim Hortons merchandise and bestows a swag box worth S$80 upon the 30 best-dressed patrons.
Image from Tim Hortons SG
In addition, Tim Hortons invites customers to download its Singapore app and sign up for membership to enjoy a free regular cup of Cafe Latte, adding an extra layer of warmth to the welcoming festivities.
Tim Hortons’ arrival in Singapore introduces a delightful blend of Canadian flavours and promises a unique cultural exchange at the intersection of Canadian heritage and Singaporean vibrancy. As the coffee cups clink and the aroma lingers, Tim Hortons at VivoCity emerges as a coffeehouse and a gateway to a shared experience that transcends borders.