Hidden grove: Discovering Olive & Peach at Geneo

Is it narcissistic to be drawn to a shop that shares your namesake, or just plain curiosity? 😂

To be fair, we were already exploring the cathedral-like timber structure of Geneo when we stumbled upon this unique little spot for tea. It shares two words with our own name, O’live & Write, so naturally, we gravitated towards it... quite unshamelessly.

Most of us have likely heard about Geneo’s iconic wooden beams, but seeing them in person? It's awe-inspiring, resembling trees stretching up toward the heavens.

The entire space feels purposefully and cleverly designed to welcome you the moment you ascend the escalator (if you exit via Kent Ridge MRT); where eventually your eyes will be drawn skyward. The space feels like a wide veranda, where pets and humans frolic and co-exist happily together.

Geneo's "tree-pillars" greeting us as we ascend the escalator!

And then, as we were walking around, taking in the stone-carved out stairs, we spotted Olive & Peach... a café tucked away on the upper floor of Geneo.

My first thought? Wow, an olive grove amidst the wooden cathedral that is Geneo!

It does feel set apart from its surroundings. The café invites you in with its soft olive green and cream tones, with gentle curves and rounded edges that soothe the senses. You can't help but feel relaxed. Globe pendant lights float above like bubbles, and Monet-inspired paintings dot the walls, further blurring the line between café and dreamscape 💚

My eyes are drawn to the green tiled counter bar, which is in a rich, earthy green that naturally anchors the space. Around it are seatings flanked by rattan-backed chairs and smooth wood tables. I love how it's not loud about its aesthetic... but possesses a quiet confidence of an understated green queen (lol). I would go on, but I think I'll spare you more details about the melty greens and wood accents.

The menu is lean but thoughtful, with a modest range of drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and pastries (though it may have changed since our last visit). We had the café latte and mocha... both did the job! I'd suggest you spending a WFH day here, if only for the atmosphere and coffee.

I’ve since returned twice. It’s lovely, and not too crowded. Absolutely worth a visit for two reasons: the architectural marvel that is Geneo, and the serene olive grove haven that is Olive & Peach.

Note: Olive & Peach is not halal.

📍 1B Science Park Dr, #01-31, Geneo 119315