Coffee over cocktails? How Beans&Beats is redefining nightlife in Singapore

Singapore’s traditional nightlife once pushed with a different energy. Bars were buzzing with people, clubs packed to the brim with snaking queues outside and everyone desperate to get in. But, in this current economy, with the rising cost of living and a growing focus on wellness, it’s no surprise that more people are swapping wild nights out for more laid-back, daytime alternatives.

Case in point: coffee parties. While they are not exactly new per se (with their cultural movement expanding worldwide), more and more people are switching out the old with the new in Singapore, as these parties are focused on two things that Gen Z loves and are proud of: intentional living and self-expression. 

But what exactly is a coffee party?

Well, it’s pretty much what it sounds like. A coffee party is a casual, feel-good gathering that centres around—you guessed it—coffee. Of course, for non-coffee drinkers, there are other alternative non-alcoholic beverages that are served, but the main point is that these parties are more sober in nature. It offers a more low-key and wholesome atmosphere, and since the party isn’t like your usual alcohol-fueled raves, you’ll get to fully immerse yourself and connect with the environment, the music and the people around you, without having to deal with a hangover or anyone’s drunk stupor.

Of course, music remains a focal point for these parties. Unlike your usual clubs, these coffee parties often see aspiring DJs who are daring enough to rewrite the norm by playing tracks they normally couldn’t at other venues. Take Beans&Beats, for example. This rising events collective is known for playing alternative genres, from the rhythmic pulses of amapiano and baile funk to the groove-heavy beats of Latin house and Miami bass.

The story behind Beans&Beats

Speaking of Beans&Beats, the alcohol-free events concept has carved a niche in Singapore’s scene for providing a fresh alternative to traditional nightlife parties. Founded in May 2024, the company is owned by three best friends–Ethan, a specialty coffee brewer; Aden, the maestro helming the decks; and Matteo the event organiser who left the nightlife scene in hopes of redefining a new space that prioritised healthy and genuine social connections.

Eden had met Matteo back in secondary school and got acquainted with Aden through Matteo after National Service. United by a love for music and community—and driven by their distinct skills—the trio came together to create their own version of a coffee party.

How did the idea for Beans&Beats first come to life?

Aden shared, “It actually started really casually. One night at the beginning of 2024, Ethan, Matteo and a few of our close friends were just hanging out at my place. Ethan had brought over his coffee brewing equipment… I had my DJ deck set up and jokingly suggested they critique my mixing while sipping on Ethan’s coffee.”

“That moment just clicked for all of us… We realised we could combine our passions into something bigger. For Ethan, it was about sharing his love for specialty filter coffee. For Matteo, it was creating these innovative third spaces for people to connect. And for me, it was honestly simply about having a sober space where I could spin alternative genres that you don’t typically hear in mainstream venues.”

Their first party 

Even though the concept was still fresh in Singapore, it didn’t take long for the trio to throw their first official party. Held at Pearl’s Hill Terrace, the debut event had just two consumer-grade air conditioners and was loosely inspired by the iconic Boiler Room series—founded by Blaise Bellville and Thristian Richards in East London back in 2010. Picture this: a single DJ, a cramped room, and sweaty bodies dancing in sync. “The DJs, coffee, turnout, and content from the event were brilliant,” Aden recalls. “But I was disappointed we couldn’t provide a more comfortable experience. I’m glad to say that we’ve got much better at event planning since then—we’re constantly reassessing the guest experience and operations.”

Despite the heat, the event was a hit—and proved that their idea had legs (and grooves).

First anniversary 

Fast forward to 2025, and the collective recently marked its first anniversary with a celebration at Behind The Green Door, the intimate cocktail bar tucked along Duxton Road. To commemorate the milestone, Beans&Beats flew in Y3LLO (@y3llomusicofficial) all the way from Yangon, Myanmar, to headline the party. He shared the decks with a stellar lineup of local DJs, including OGs from their very first event—@joon2nice and @yourboylings—as well as @slayli.a, known for her infectious grooves, and genre-bending sets by @_edenyc and @adenlowpotato.

Over the past year, the collective has brought their signature vibe to a variety of venues across the city—from the industrial charm of Common Man Coffee Roasters at Alexandra, to the rooftop at lyf one-north Singapore, and even Trifecta Singapore, just to name a few.

With their growing presence in Singapore’s sober party scene, it’s no surprise that Beans&Beats has caught the attention of major brands. They’ve since collaborated with names like HUGO and Club 21—most notably for a lively Chinese New Year shopping spree.

The team intentionally switches up venues for every event—making sure each party feels fresh and offers a different vibe. It’s a deliberate move that not only keeps things exciting but also reimagines what nightlife can look like, sans the alcohol.

What’s more, entry is pretty wallet-friendly—especially for younger crowds—with pre-sale tickets starting at just $20, and $30 at the door. Pair that with a cup of specialty coffee (which costs way less than your average cocktail at a club), and you’ve got yourself a fun, affordable party experience.

The future of Beans&Beats

As Beans&Beats grows, the team’s vision goes beyond just throwing cool parties. They’re building a community—a regular space for coffee lovers and music heads to come together. With a strong online presence, they’re also shining a light on local roasters, indie cafes, and up-and-coming DJs.

At its core, Beans&Beats isn’t just an events brand—it’s a movement. One that champions mindful socialising and creative expression. Through their parties, they’re showing that you don’t need booze to enjoy music—in fact, being sober might just help you appreciate every beat and detail even more.

To find out more about Beans&Beats and when their next party will be, check out their Instagram and their TikTok.