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A First-Timer’s Guide to Tiong Bahru in Singapore That Will Have You Wandering Like a Local
Tiong Bahru was where my grandparents took me for weekend breakfasts—kopi, kaya toast, and the same coffee shop they had visited for years. Mornings were quiet, with market vendors setting up and uncles flipping through newspapers.
These days, cafés and bookstores have moved in, but the curved balconies and the hum of the wet market remain. There’s plenty to see, so grab a coffee, go on a walk, and take the time to soak it all in.
Where is Tiong Bahru?
Tiong Bahru is in Singapore’s central region. It is bounded by Havelock Road to the north, Alexandra Road to the west, Outram Road to the east, and the Ayer Rajah Expressway to the south.
What is the main street in Tiong Bahru?
In Tiong Bahru, the main street is Tiong Poh Road. This stretch is home to some of the neighborhood’s most well-known cafés, bookstores, and heritage buildings.
How to Get to Tiong Bahru
By Bus: Several bus routes serve the Tiong Bahru area, making it easy to reach by public transport. Buses 14, 33, 64, 65, and 851 stop nearby.
With multiple stops scattered across the neighborhood, you can get off at the one most convenient for your destination.
By MRT: Take the East-West Line or Thomson-East Coast Line and alight at Tiong Bahru Station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the main attractions, including Tiong Bahru Market, cafés, and heritage sites.
By Taxi: Booking a Grab, Gojek, or taxi is another hassle-free way to get to Tiong Bahru. Just enter your destination, and drivers will typically drop you off near Tiong Bahru Market or Guan Chuan Street.
By Private Car: If you’re driving, major roads like Zion Road and Havelock Road provide easy access to the area.
Those coming from Southern Ridges can take the Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE), exit onto the Central Expressway (CTE), and follow Balestier Road until reaching Tiong Bahru Road.
What to Do and See in Tiong Bahru
Uncover Singapore’s wartime past at the Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter
Media Credit: @ramenking2018
Address: 78 Guan Chuan Street, Block 78
Email: [email protected]
Pricing: $
Hidden along Guan Chuan Street, the Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter is a rare remnant of Singapore’s wartime history. Built in 1939, this 1,500 sqm underground space was once a refuge during World War II.
With no ventilation and only dim lighting, it’s not hard to imagine the tension and uncertainty felt by those who once huddled inside.
The shelter is usually closed to the public, but in early 2024, it briefly became the venue for RAID, an art exhibition featuring works from emerging artists.
For those curious to step inside, My Community runs guided tours on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month, taking visitors through Tiong Bahru’s heritage spots before ending at the shelter.
Outside, informational panels provide a glimpse into its past, offering stories of resilience and survival in one of Singapore’s last remaining pre-war civilian air raid shelters.
Enjoy the greenery at Kim Pong Park
Media Credit: @oscartheminigroodle
Address: Kim Tian Pl
Phone: +65 6471 7808
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Website: https://www.nparks.gov.sg/visit/parks/park-detail/kim-pong-park/
Kim Pong Park may be small, but it has a charm that fits right into the heart of Tiong Bahru. Inspired by the art-deco style of the estate, the park’s open layout makes it easy to explore, with wide pathways that are stroller and wheelchair-friendly.
Even on a weekday afternoon, it’s a popular spot, filled with families, joggers, and the occasional dog enjoying a stroll.
The metal garden swings are a great place to rest, offering a quiet moment to watch the world go by. If you prefer something more grounded, the terrazzo benches are a comfortable alternative.
The space feels like an extension of the neighborhood—relaxed, familiar, and welcoming. With dogs allowed, it’s a convenient stop for pet owners looking for a green space nearby.
Discover nostalgic street art while mural hunting
Media Credit: @sononui
Address: Starts at 30 Seng Poh Road
Tiong Bahru isn’t just about cafes and bookstores—it’s also home to some of Singapore’s most captivating street art.
Scattered across the neighborhood, these murals bring the past to life, reflecting scenes of old Singapore through the eyes of local artist Yip Yew Chong.
His works, like Pasar & Fortune Teller and Home, are rich in detail, featuring familiar sights such as traditional markets, vintage furnishings, and even his family’s favorite hawker dishes.
Another must-see is the Bird Singing Corner mural at Seng Poh Lane, a nod to the once-popular pastime where bird owners gathered to chat while their songbirds chirped above.
Near Tiong Bahru Market, photographer-turned-artist Ernest Goh adds a playful touch with his goat murals and a striking goldfish painting at the post office.
These murals certainly create a layer of storytelling that makes exploring Tiong Bahru all the more rewarding.
Where to Eat and Drink in Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru Bakery
Media Credit: @tiongbahrubakery
Address: 56 Eng Hoon St, #01-70
Phone: +6562203430
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30AM to 8PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8AM to 8PM
Website: http://www.tiongbahrubakery.com/
After a stroll through the neighborhood, stopping for a treat at Tiong Bahru Bakery feels almost like a tradition. Known for its flaky croissants and rich pastries, this spot has been drawing in crowds since 2012.
While their Kouign Amann is the top pick for many, there’s more to explore on the menu. The Green Tea Almond Croissant is a pleasant surprise—nutty, lightly sweet, and dusted with matcha for a deep, earthy finish.
For something more filling, the Breakfast Croffle is worth trying. A cross between a croissant and a waffle, it’s crisp yet airy, served with a rich herb ranch sauce, caramelized bacon, and earthy portobello mushrooms.
Plain Vanilla Bakery
Media Credit: @plainvanillasg
Address: 1D Yong Siak Street
Phone: +6583637614
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours: Daily – 7:30AM to 7PM
Website: https://www.plainvanilla.com.sg/
Cupcakes might be the main attraction at Plain Vanilla Bakery, but resisting their pastries and cakes takes some serious willpower.
Known for using high-quality ingredients like Belgian chocolate and Madagascar Bourbon vanilla, their bakes have a reputation for being as good as they look.
Regulars we spoke to swear by the Red Velvet Cupcake, made with Valrhona cocoa and topped with smooth cream cheese frosting.
Their Tiong Bahru outlet on Yong Siak Street is a great spot to slow down with a coffee, surrounded by books and plants. Indoor seating makes it an easy place to settle in, whether for a quiet break or catching up with a friend.
With a mix of regular and seasonal cupcake flavors, there’s always a reason to come back—and maybe even grab a gift box for someone special.
Merci Marcel
Media Credit: @mercimarcel
Address: 56 Eng Hoon St, #01-68
Phone: +6562240113
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 8AM to 11PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 8AM to 12AM
Website: http://mercimarcelgroup.com/
Merci Marcel brings together French café culture with tropical influences, creating a space that feels warm and inviting.
With citrus-toned walls, plenty of greenery, and a glasshouse-style patio, it’s the kind of place that encourages you to slow down and enjoy a meal at your own pace.
The menu leans toward French-inspired dishes with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. They offer the Ravioles de Royan, a comforting choice, served in a creamy sauce that keeps regulars coming back.
While the Tartine with avocado and feta offers a lighter option without skimping on taste.
To round out the meal, the drink selection includes fresh juices, French wines, and other refreshing choices, making it easy to find the perfect pairing.
Tiong Bahru Food Center
Media Credit: @melbnfoodie
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road
Pricing: $
Operating Hours: Daily – 6AM to 10PM
Website: https://tiongbahru.market/
Tiong Bahru Food Center is the kind of place where a quick meal can turn into a feast before you even realize it. Stalls here serve some of Singapore’s best hawker dishes, each one worth a stop.
Start with chwee kueh, soft rice cakes topped with savory preserved radish and a spoonful of chili on the side. If you’re in the mood for something with more bite, Hokkien mee delivers with prawns, egg noodles, and a broth that clings to every strand.
For something sweet, grab a bowl of tau suan or ice kachang, perfect for cooling off after a satisfying meal.
The open seating keeps things casual, making it easy to settle in with a tray of food while watching plates fly off the counters.
With so much to try, it’s tempting to order more than planned—or start thinking about the next visit before you’re even done eating.
Where to Shop in Tiong Bahru
Cat Socrates
Media Credit: @reglne
Address: 78 Yong Siak St, #01-14
Phone: +6563330870
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 10AM to 6PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 10AM to 7PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10AM to 8PM
Website: http://cat-socrates.myshopify.com/
Cat Socrates is the kind of place where you walk in for a book and leave with a bag full of things you never knew you needed. You’ll find the shelves packed with homewares, stationery, and fashion accessories, many with a playful or local touch.
And if you have a soft spot for cats, you’ll find no shortage of notebooks, greeting cards, and quirky trinkets dedicated to them.
Books take up a good share of the space too, with titles on lifestyle, design, and local literature from publishers like Math Paper Press and Epigram Books. A kids’ section keeps younger readers in mind, offering toys and picture books worth flipping through.
But the true star here is Chestnut, the shop’s adopted cat, who spends his afternoons curled up behind the counter and evenings watching customers browse. One moment he’s snoozing, the next he’s stretching out for a head scratch.
One Olive Floral Boutique
Media Credit: @one_olive
Address: 61 Seng Poh Lane, #01-01
Phone: +6596803453
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Sunday and Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Saturday – 1:30PM to 6:30PM
Website: https://oneolive.net/
One Olive is all about making every bouquet feel like it was made just for you. Whether it’s an anniversary, a wedding, or a simple pick-me-up, the florists here know how to put together arrangements that match the moment.
Their designs range from soft pastels to deep, dramatic tones, and no two bouquets feel the same.
What keeps people coming back isn’t just the flowers, but the way the team pays attention to every little request. Customers rave about how they can describe a feeling or a color, and the florists turn it into something even better than expected.
Deliveries arrive fresh, sometimes with extra blooms tucked in as a surprise. May it be a grand centerpiece or a simple hand-tied bouquet, One Olive knows how to make flowers feel special—not just for the receiver, but for the one giving them too.
Ronggeng Records
Media Credit: @obscurus_333
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #01-79
Phone: +6586061870
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday – 12:30PM to 6:30PM
- Friday – 3PM to 9PM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Ronggeng-Records
If you’re near Kim Cheng Street and hear music drifting from a corner, chances are you’ve found Ronggeng Records.
Owned by Shahrem Selamat, this vinyl store is packed with records, CDs, and cassettes, many of which are hard to find, especially from Southeast Asian artists.
About half the collection includes bands from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore—pressings that never had mass production, making them rare gems for collectors.
Before opening the shop, Shahrem ran a café and had dreams of combining the two, but rising costs led him to focus fully on music. Now, his shop is a haven for those who appreciate the warmth of analog sound over digital recordings.
Outside, $10 bins hold hidden treasures, personally curated by Shahrem himself. There’s always a chance you’ll stumble upon something special at Ronggeng Records.
Where to Stay in Tiong Bahru
Nostalgia Hotel
Media Credit: @nostalgiahotel
Address: 77 Tiong Bahru Road
Phone: +6568081818
Pricing: $$
Check-in Time: 2PM
Check-out Time: 12PM
Website: http://www.hotelnostalgia.com.sg/
Nostalgia Hotel Singapore brings a touch of old-world charm to Tiong Bahru, one of the city’s most historic districts.
The rooms may be on the smaller side, but they’re set up for a comfortable stay. Plush beds, strong air conditioning, and a hot shower make winding down after a long day effortless.
For those looking to cool off, the rooftop pool offers a peaceful spot to relax. It’s a nice way to take a break before heading back out, especially with the surrounding streets full of places to explore.
Bus stops, cafés, and hawker stalls are just a short walk away, making it easy to dive into the neighborhood’s mix of old and new.
Adding to the experience, the staff are always friendly and helpful, ready with recommendations to help guests make the most of their stay.
Furama RiverFront
Media Credit: @furamasingapore
Address: 405 Havelock Road
Phone: +6563338898
Pricing: $$
Check-in Time: 2PM
Check-out Time: 12PM
Website: https://www.furama.com/riverfront
Furama RiverFront offers both comfort and convenience, making it a great base for exploring Singapore.
The spacious rooms provide views of the city skyline, greenery, or pool, giving guests a relaxing space to unwind. Each room is designed with practicality in mind, ensuring a comfortable stay whether for business or leisure.
Beyond the rooms, the hotel provides thoughtful amenities that make daily routines a little easier. A self-service Starbucks coffee machine and grab-and-go vending options allow guests to fuel up quickly before heading out.
The service leaves a lasting impression too, with staff accommodating early check-ins and large groups with ease.
However, their breakfast service could use some improvement, particularly in keeping food replenished.
D’Hotel Singapore
Media Credit: @chrothan
Address: 231 Outram Road
Phone: +6565951388
Pricing: $$
Check-in Time: 3PM
Check-out Time: 12PM
Website: https://www.discoverasr.com/en/others/singapore/dhotel-singapore?
D’Hotel Singapore sits in the Tiong Bahru district, making it a convenient base for travelers who enjoy being close to local markets, cafés, and transit options.
A short walk takes you to Tiong Bahru Market, known for its hawker stalls. And the MRT stations like Havelock and Tiong Bahru are within a 15-minute walk, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with large beds and bathrooms featuring a rain shower that feels more like a monsoon.
While the hotel keeps things simple, the polished setup and friendly staff create a welcoming stay.
And for those looking to unwind at the end of the day, the rooftop bar offers a relaxing spot to sit back and take in the surroundings.
