Categories > Guides and Tips
Everything You Need to Know about Tiong Bahru in Singapore
- Where is Tiong Bahru in Singapore?
- What is the main street of Tiong Bahru?
- How to Get to Tiong Bahru
- What to Do
- Check out the Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter
- Have a lovely stroll or picnic at Tiong Bahru Park
- Pay your respects at Monkey God Temple
- Where to Eat
- Merci Marcel Tiong Bahru
- Por Kee Eating House 1996
- Flock Cafe
- Lead General Hotpot
- House of Peranakan Petit
- The Butcher’s Wife
- Lucca’s Trattoria Italian Restaurant
- Ah Chiang’s Porridge
- Tuan Yuan Pork Ribs Soup
- Dirty Supper
- Tiong Bahru Market
- Where to Shop
- Tiong Bahru Plaza
- Cat Socrates
- Foodie Market Place
- Lao Sin Kian Choon
- Yenidraws and Friends
- Where to Stay
- Nostalgia Hotel
- Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, an IHG Hotel
- Link Hotel
- New Cape Inn
- FAQ
Tiong Bahru is best known as the oldest housing estate in Singapore (fun fact: it was constructed about a hundred years ago, in the 1920s!), but for me, it’s more than just a residential block. It’s an excursion site, especially if I want to escape the city for a while.
This neighbourhood is chock full of amazing restaurants serving all sorts of cuisines—from local Singaporean fare to fancy European delights. There are also shops that tempt me to splurge, as well as landmarks that invite me to enjoy a relaxing stroll.
If you want to explore Tiong Bahru soon, here’s a guide to help you plan out your itinerary.
Where is Tiong Bahru in Singapore?
Tiong Bahru is located in the Central Region of Singapore. It’s bordered by Alexandra Road and Ganges Avenue to the north, Jalan Bukit Merah to the south, Henderson to the west, and Outram Road to the east.
What is the main street of Tiong Bahru?
Tiong Bahru Road is the main street of Tiong Bahru; it’s roughly in the heart of the area, and it runs from east to west (and vice versa). It’s also where most of the neighbourhood’s commercial establishments are located.
Lower Delta Road is another major street, as it runs lengthwise through the neighbourhood. It’s also where a lot of the bus stops are situated.
How to Get to Tiong Bahru
MRT: Take the East–West MRT Line and alight at the Tiong Bahru MRT station.
Bus: If you prefer riding the bus, take any of the following bus services: 123, 16, 33, 63, or 851. The neighbourhood has several bus stops, so you can disembark anywhere. The bus stop opposite Tiong Bahru Station/Plaza is one of the most commonly known stops in the neighbourhood.
What to Do
Check out the Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter
From: shanemardjuki
Address: 78 Guan Chuan St
Since Tiong Bahru is the oldest housing estate in Singapore, it’s steeped in history. One historic landmark that I recommend visitors check out is the Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter, which is located on Block 78.
Visiting this air raid shelter gives you a glimpse of what life was like during World War II. The space occupies 1,500 square meters, so it’s big enough to house around 1,600 people. It’s also pretty dark and hot because there’s no ventilation.
The first time I came here, I instantly sobered at the idea of locals hiding here during the war. Even more sobering is the fact that there are still people in Tiong Bahru who have memories about this shelter.
Have a lovely stroll or picnic at Tiong Bahru Park
From: mr.smol.bear
Address: 1 Henderson Rd
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
On a lighter note, another thing you can do in this neighbourhood is stop by Tiong Bahru Park. This sprawling public park offers many fun amenities, making it a go-to spot for many local families.
I personally love a casual stroll around, maybe stopping at the therapeutic garden to see all the greenery. If you’re with your family, your children might love the playground. It has tilted train carriages with slides, so they can let their imagination run wild here.
Pay your respects at Monkey God Temple
From: keremtours
Address: 44 Eng Hoon St
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—8 am to 4 pm
Contact Number: +6562202469
Website
The Monkey God Temple, officially known as the Tiong Bahru Qi Tian Gong Temple, is another historical landmark in the area. It’s also a cultural site since it celebrates Sun Wu Kong, the Monkey God, who is best known for his valour and wisdom.
Even if you’re not Taoist, you can still come here to pay your respects. Personally, I love to come here to leave a few candles and pray for prosperity in my life.
Where to Eat
Merci Marcel Tiong Bahru
From: mercimarcel
Address: 56 Eng Hoon St, #01-68 Tiong Bahru Community Centre
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday—8 am to 11 pm
- Thursday to Saturday—8 am to 12 am
Looking for a European restaurant? Look no further than Merci Marcel!
This restaurant chain is best known for serving scrumptious French cuisine. Oh, and they’ve got wine here, too, so you can take your dining experience to a whole new level.
I love coming here for brunch, and my go-to order is the Croque Marcel. It comes with an organic Bayonne ham and French Morbier cheese, so it has that salty, creamy combination. It also has a fried egg, which adds a richness that elevates the sandwich.
Por Kee Eating House 1996
From: spoonsofdelights
Address: 69 Seng Poh Ln, #01-02
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday—11 am to 2:30 pm, 5 pm to 10:45 pm
Contact Number: +6562210582
Website
Por Kee Eating House 1996 is a staple in the neighbourhood and for good reason. Not only does this restaurant serve local Singaporean delights at cheap prices, but it also has options that intrigue every customer.
I mean, a bullfrog soup? Tell me more!
Of course, I have to recommend said bullfrog soup, which also happens to be their bestseller. The frog meat is actually not that much different from chicken; it’s succulent and has a mild flavour. As for the soup, it tastes savoury and herbal.
Flock Cafe
Address: 01-25 Tiong Bahru Estate, 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-25 Block 78
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—8 am to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +6565363938
Another great spot for brunch is Flock Cafe. This one has a very laid-back vibe, which is why I love coming here if I need to pause from life and just relax.
The Big Breakfast is my favourite because it’s so hearty. It’s loaded with all the best breakfast items—eggs (I love mine poached), sausages, roasted potatoes, baked beans, and mushrooms.
The whole plate is also a flavourful delight—a mix of salty, savoury, and earthy notes. Pair that with a cup of coffee, and I’m set!
Lead General Hotpot
From: leadgeneralsg.hotpot
Address: 302 Tiong Bahru Rd, #02-117 Tiong Bahru Plaza
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—11 am to 10 pm
Contact Number: +6589160808
Website
Do you think you have the taste buds to handle intense spice? If so, then you might want to check out Lead General Hotpot and test to see if your answer is correct.
I recommend getting the General’s Red Robe Tomato Pot if this is your first time. The broth is bright red, which is a great sign for spice lovers. While it packs quite the heat, it also has tangy and sweet flavours to balance everything.
As for the toppings, feel free to get creative. I love sticking to the usual (thin strips of beef and pork), but this spot also has seafood and vegetable options.
House of Peranakan Petit
From: houseofperanakan
Address: 42 Eng Hoon St
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Monday—11 am to 3 pm, 6 pm to 10 pm
Contact Number: +6562221719
Website
Peranakan restaurants are aplenty in Singapore, and one of the most popular is House of Peranakan Petit. Fortunately, there’s an outlet right here in Tiong Bahru!
You can’t go wrong with itek sioh, which is essentially Peranakan-style braised duck. I’m obsessed with how tender and succulent the meat is. When I take a bite, bright sweetness and tanginess greet me, followed by a subtle peppery undertone.
This dish can be too rich, which is why I like to pair it with a serving of steaming white rice.
The Butcher’s Wife
From: thebutcherswifesg
Address: 19 Yong Siak St, Yong Siak Court
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday—12 pm to 3 pm
- Saturday—11 am to 3 pm
- Sunday—11 am to 3 pm, 6 pm to 10:30 pm
Contact Number: +6562219307
Website
Latin-Mediterranean cuisine fusion? Say less! If that sounds like your cup of tea as well, then you have to check out The Butcher’s Wife.
This restaurant is also gluten-free, which is good news for my gluten-sensitive foodies!
If you’re not scared to splurge, treat yourself to the Sanchoku Wagyu Picanha. The Wagyu steak is unbelievably tender and fatty, and the chimichurri adds a burst of refreshing tanginess to every bite. This dish also comes with hand-cut fries that are perfectly salted.
Lucca’s Trattoria Italian Restaurant
From: trattorialuccas
Address: 77 Tiong Bahru Rd, Nostalgia Hotel
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday—12 pm to 11 pm
- Saturday—11:30 am to 11 pm
- Sunday—11:30 am to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +6562232301
Website
Italian cuisine is always a hit for me, so it’s not a surprise that I love Lucca’s Trattoria. This restaurant has the atmosphere of a town in the Italian countryside, so it’s chill, casual, and even romantic.
To no one’s surprise, their pasta dishes are their most popular. I love the Linguine Al Frutti Di Mare because it’s a seafood feast. It comes with calamari, tiger prawns, mussels, clams, and crayfish, and they always taste fresh as well.
As for the sauce, it’s tangy and acidic, which pairs well with the seafood’s mellow sweetness.
Ah Chiang’s Porridge
Address: 65 Tiong Poh Rd, Block 65 HDB Tiong Poh
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—6:15 am to 10:30 pm
Contact Number: +6565570084
Facebook
From the outside, Ah Chiang’s Porridge may not seem like much—just a humble dining spot—but don’t overlook it. This restaurant serves some of the best Cantonese-style congees that I’ve tried!
I usually get the mixed pork porridge, which comes with sliced meat, minced pork, and even innards, so savoury is the dominant flavour. It also has a smoky undertone that I really like, and the consistency of the porridge is pretty smooth.
Tuan Yuan Pork Ribs Soup
From: tuanyuan.sg
Address: 127 Kim Tian Rd, #01-01
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday—11 am to 2:30 pm, 5 pm to 9:30 pm
Contact Number: +6566840123
Website
As much as I love other cuisines, sometimes, my heart (or rather, my stomach) craves Singaporean dishes. When that happens, Tuan Yuan Pork Ribs Soup is one of the first places I’ll hit up.
Of course, I have to recommend the titular pork ribs soup. It might not seem like much, but my goodness, this dish is a flavour bomb! The soup is simmered with pork bones for hours, so the rich savouriness runs deep. It also packs a peppery and garlicky punch that I like.
As for the pork itself, it’s so tender that it practically falls off the bone! It already tastes good as is (savoury and peppery), but I like to dip it into a soy sauce-vinegar mix for that extra kick.
Dirty Supper
From: thedirtysupper
Address: 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19
Operating Hours:
- Monday—5 pm to 12 am
- Tuesday to Saturday—3 pm to 12 am
Contact Number: +6564384567
Website
Dirty Supper is the kind of restaurant that only comes alive at night. As such, it’s a great spot for a romantic night out—or if you’re hit by a craving for a certain dish when you should be sleeping already.
I’m obsessed with the aged duck breast. The rich savouriness seeps deep into the meat. It’s also served with pickled apricot, its sweet tanginess pairing well with the richness.
Don’t miss out on their cocktails as well. I recommend the Paloma on Fire; the tequila is strong, but it’s balanced out with the sweetness of the grapefruit and a spicy warmth from the ginger.
Tiong Bahru Market
From: danielfooddiary
Address: 30 Seng Poh Rd
Website
If you’re on a budget or you want to try multiple dishes from different places at the same time, then Tiong Bahru Market should be on your itinerary. This hawker centre is teeming with many amazing stalls!
Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice is one of my go-to stalls here. I love how I can build my plate however I want; my usual is rice with braised pork and prawn paste chicken, so it’s a very savoury-heavy plate.
If you’re looking for a sweet treat, get a bowl of tau huey from Teck Seng Soya Bean Milk. This simple treat of smooth beancurd smothered in a thick syrup just hits the spot every time. And the best part is that it’s not overly sweet!
Where to Shop
Tiong Bahru Plaza
From: tiongbahruplazasg
Address: 302 Tiong Bahru Rd
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday—10 am to 10 pm
Contact Number: +6562764686
Website
In the mood for a shopping spree? Then, you’re in luck because this neighbourhood has Tiong Bahru Plaza, a vibrant shopping mall with a trendy design and tons of popular shops and restaurants.
I’m a fashion girlie, so I always hit up the clothing stores here. So far, I keep coming back to MS NEW, a Singaporean brand offering stylish and chic items for women. I bought the Elegant Cheongsam Dress here. I love its floral jacquard silk fabric and lace decorations on the high collar!
Cat Socrates
From: cat_socrates
Address: 78 Yong Siak St, #01-14
Operating Hours:
- Sunday and Monday—10 am to 6 pm
- Tuesday to Thursday—10 am to 7 pm
- Friday and Saturday—10 am to 8 pm
Contact Number: +6563330870
Website
I discovered Cat Socrates on a whim. I was just walking along the street when the sign caught my attention, and when I saw the adorable art prints on display, I knew I had to get in and check everything out!
I’ve purchased a lot of kitchenware from this shop, and I have no regrets. My friends and family members have gushed about my colourful Peranakan-tile-inspired plates and placemats with gorgeous artwork of Singaporean sights, so I feel validated.
There are also a bunch of cute cat items here, which is good news for cat lovers. I once got a cat collar bowtie here, and I can’t get over how much it makes my cat look so distinguished.
Foodie Market Place
From: foodiemarketplacesg
Address: 225 Outram Rd
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday—11 am to 8 pm
- Saturday and Sunday—9 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +6562243290
Facebook
Foodie Market Place is a godsend for home cooks and busy people on an urgent grocery run. This shop offers a wide variety of high-quality frozen meats. They even have Wagyu steak cuts here!
Aside from the frozen meats, they have a few other frozen goods. I usually buy packs of frozen vegetables here (especially when I have no time to go to a farmer’s market), but I also like to treat myself to pints of ice cream and perhaps a few packets of cheese.
Lao Sin Kian Choon
From: laosinkianchoon
Address: 18 Jln Membina, #01-08
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday—7:30 am to 6 pm
- Sunday—9 am to 6 pm
Contact Number: +6562522389
Are you a fruit lover like me? Then, you’ll love Lao Sin Kian Choon. This shop sells so many kinds of fruits, which is why shopping here is always such a delight. I never know what I’m going to buy until I’m there!
I love their apples and berries, in particular, because they’re sweet and succulent, and for the apples, they’re incredibly crisp. Sometimes, I treat myself to an exotic fruit, like a fresh durian, when it’s in season.
Yenidraws and Friends
From: yenidraws
Address: 55 Tiong Bahru Rd, 01-53 Block 55 HDB Tiong Bahru
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday—10 am to 5 pm
- Sunday—11 am to 4 pm
Another shop that sells adorable trinkets is Yenidraws and Friends. It’s owned by a local illustrator, and all its products have her art. I love supporting local artists!
The wall art prints are my favourite things to get here because they look so pretty hanging on my wall. But I also got some stuff for my kitchen. My current obsessions are the ceramic plates with their colourful floral designs and the tea towels with illustrations of Peranakan buildings and a spread of Singaporean treats.
Where to Stay
Nostalgia Hotel
From: nostalgiahotel
Address: 77 Tiong Bahru Rd
Contact Number: +6568081818
Website
I love Nostalgia Hotel for its unique charm. Plus, it’s conveniently located in the neighbourhood, so I don’t have to worry about getting lost.
No matter which room you pick, you can expect to have a television with cable channels and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The hotel also has other facilities. For example, there’s an on-site laundry site, so you don’t have to travel to get your clothes clean. And if you want to cool down, just head to the outdoor pool and take a swim.
Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, an IHG Hotel
From: holidayinnsgatrium
Address: 317 Outram Rd
Contact Number: +6567330188
Website
Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium is only about 25 minutes away from Changi Airport, which is why it’s a popular choice among foreign tourists. It’s also located near Havelock MRT Station, making travel very convenient.
The rooms and suites are spacious enough and have all the necessities like bath amenities, a television, and Wi-Fi. There’s even a workspace available, just in case you need to get some work done.
After a long day, feel free to take a dip in the outdoor pool!
Link Hotel
From: linkhotelsingapore
Address: 50 Tiong Bahru Rd, #01-01
Contact Number: +6566228585
Website
Link Hotel is quite the stunner. It comprises two Art Deco apartment blocks, and their chic style extends to their rooms. The lobby, in particular, is a shimmering sight.
I love the SOHO Room, which is big at 30 square meters—perfect when I’m with my family. It even has a separate sitting area with a television, so if someone wants to watch while the rest are asleep, they can do so.
This hotel also has Mirage, a restaurant with a unique experience. It has a screen for a wall, so any landscape can be depicted there, allowing you to immerse yourself in a different setting.
New Cape Inn
From: ampol.me
Address: 3 Seng Poh Rd, #01 01
Contact Number: +6565369939
Website
If you’re looking for something more affordable, then New Cape Inn is worth considering.
Even though the rates here are cheaper than the ones on this list, this place still offers decent service. Each room has a television, internet access, and air conditioning.
I also like that there’s a car park here, so if you’re choosing to drive to Tiong Bahru, you don’t have to worry about finding a parking space.
