Rediscover hidden gems in one of our favourite hangout spots in Singapore.
Posted on August 20, 2020 at 4:51 PM
Colourful murals on one of the alleyways in Haji Lane.
Kampong Glam is the oldest urban quarter in Singapore and its history brings rich culture and life to our streets today.
Since we’re not travelling out of Singapore in 2020, why not take it slow and spend some time properly exploring the charms this district offers? From hipster bars and minimalistic cafés, along with the myriad of activities available, there’s never a dull moment here.
With options S$150 and under, you're sure to have a good night's rest in one of these boutique hotels in Kampong Glam!
North Bridge Road was one of the earliest roads built in Singapore. Lined with old shophouses, it was the liveliest commercial street in Kampong Glam. Today, it's still full of buzz, with new cafés, eateries and boutique shops that line the road.
Explore its colourful alleyways and façades, and you might just find your next favourite place!
Grab a bite at one of these cafés and restaurants:
At the end of North Bridge Road, you’ll find yourself at Masjid Malabar. This vibrant blue and gold mosque is just 400m away from the well-known Sultan Mosque. While visibly quieter, this mosque is just as beautiful.
Movie fanatics will enjoy The Projector — an independent cinema located within Golden Mile Tower. Here, you’ll find various indie and classic films. Most of you might not know but back in 1974 it was one of the largest cinemas in Singapore! Tickets can be booked online.
Cost: S$13.50 for adults, S$11.50 for students, NSFs and seniors
Opening hours: 4PM – 8:30PM (Wed – Fri), 1PM – 8:30PM (Sat – Sun and PH), closed on Mon and Tue
How to get there: 5min walk from Nicoll Highway MRT
If you're not feeling like a movie, why not hang out with kitties in Meomi Cat Cafe, or have some thrilling fun at Xcape Singapore?
Meowmi Cat Cafe
Cost: S$13 for adults, S$7 for children
Opening hours: 11AM – 8PM (check their Facebook for regular updates)
How to get there: 5min walk from Bugis MRT
Xcape Singapore
Cost: From S$22/pax
Opening hours: 11AM – 10:30PM
How to get there: 2min walk from Bugis MRT
Haji Lane, the heart of Kampong Glam, is where you can find a mix of traditional Middle Eastern eateries, juxtaposed by modern and Instagrammable cafés and bars. Explore locally made bespoke items, visit the illustrious Sultan Mosque, and settle for dinner and drinks at one of the following outlets:
Blanco Court Prawn Mee
Cost: S$10.90 for jumbo prawns and pork rib noodle
Opening hours: 7AM – 4PM, closed on Mon
How to get there: 5min from Bugis MRT
Blu Jaz Cafe
Cost: From S$12.90 for mains and S$8.90 for alcoholic beverages
Opening hours: 12PM – 10:30PM, closed on Mon
How to get there: 5min from Bugis MRTSwitch up your fancy lattes and mochas and enjoy good ol’ Nanyang Coffee at these local coffee houses!
Kopi More brews your Nanyang Coffee in an Espresso Machine, giving it a nutty and a slight acidic taste. Its thick flavour will make you fall in love at first taste!
Kopi More
Cost: S$1.90 for hot, S$2.20 for iced
Opening hours: 10:30AM – 4PM, closed on Mon
How to get there: 6min walk from Lavender or Nicoll Highway MRT
If you love traditional breakfasts, Heap Seng Leong is the place to go. An order of the traditional toast set comes with the classic kaya toast, a silky half boiled egg, and the best part — their signature kopi served with a slice of butter, giving it a richer, smoky taste.
Heap Seng Leong
Cost: S$3.60 for a traditional toast set
Opening hours: 5AM – 5PM
How to get there: 5 mins from Lavender MRT
Kampong Glam is arguably one of the most colourful districts in Singapore. With traditional eateries and iconic places of worship alongside the bustling bar and cafe scene, there is just so much to see and rediscover. Take the weekend off to explore this vibrant neighbourhood with a local staycation experience!