Ann Siang Hill is a small hill in Chinatown, Singapore, that is named after a wealthy Chinese businessman who owned plantations in the area in the 19th century. Today, it is one of the most charming and vibrant districts in the city, where heritage and history meet modernity and nightlife.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll, a cultural immersion, a gastronomic adventure, or a fun night out, Ann Siang Hill has something for everyone. In this guide, we will show you the best things to do, eat, drink, and shop in Ann Siang Hill, as well as some tips and recommendations for a memorable visit.
History and Heritage
Ann Siang Hill was once a Chinese migrant settlement, where various clan associations, temples, and shophouses were established. The district still retains much of its historical and architectural charm, with many of the shophouses being restored and conserved. You can learn more about the district’s past and present by visiting some of its landmarks, such as:
The old well: This is the oldest well in Singapore, dating back to 1822. It was used by the early settlers for drinking and washing, and is now a symbol of the district’s heritage.
Al-Abrar Mosque: This is one of the oldest mosques in Singapore, built in 1827 by Indian Muslim traders. It features a distinctive green dome and a minaret, and is still an active place of worship.
Singapore Musical Box Museum: This is a unique museum that showcases the history and evolution of musical boxes, from the 19th century to the present day. You can see and hear various types of musical boxes, such as cylinder, disc, and polyphon, and learn about their origins, mechanisms, and functions.
Dining and Drinking
Ann Siang Hill is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining and drinking options to suit every taste and budget. You can find everything from traditional local dishes to modern fusion cuisine, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, and from cozy cafes to trendy bars. Some of the best dining and drinking options in the district are:
Yen Yakiniku: This is a Japanese barbecue restaurant that specializes in premium wagyu beef. You can grill your own meat on the table, or let the chef do it for you. The restaurant also offers a variety of side dishes, such as salads, soups, and rice.
The Coconut Club: This is a popular spot for authentic nasi lemak, a Malay dish of coconut rice, fried chicken, sambal, and other accompaniments. The restaurant uses fresh coconuts and quality ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ding Dong: This is a fun and quirky restaurant that serves Asian-inspired dishes with a twist. You can expect to find dishes such as beef rendang croquettes, crab and corn omelette, and pineapple tarte tatin. The restaurant also has a creative cocktail menu, featuring drinks such as the Ding Dong Sour and the Singapore Sling.
PS Café: This is a chic and cozy cafe that offers a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pasta. The cafe is also famous for its cakes, such as the chocolate blackout cake, the carrot cake, and the sticky date pudding.
Native: This is a award-winning bar that focuses on using local and regional ingredients to create innovative and sustainable cocktails. You can find drinks such as the Peranakan, which is made with jackfruit rum, laksa leaves, goat’s milk, and candlenut, or the Antz, which is made with coconut rum, salt-baked tapioca, and ants.
Club Street Wine Room: This is a wine lover’s heaven, with a selection of over 300 wines from around the world. You can enjoy a glass or a bottle of wine, paired with cheese, charcuterie, or other snacks. The wine room also hosts regular wine tastings and events.
Shopping and Entertainment
Ann Siang Hill is not only a place for eating and drinking, but also for shopping and entertainment. You can find a variety of shops, ranging from quirky to classy, books to clothes, and movies to music. Some of the best shopping and entertainment options in the district are:
BooksActually: This is a independent bookstore that sells a curated collection of books, especially by local and regional authors. You can also find stationery, art, and vintage items, as well as a resident cat named Cake.
The Little Dröm Store: This is a cute and colorful shop that sells a range of products, such as accessories, homeware, toys, and prints. The shop also features local and international artists and designers, and hosts workshops and events.
Supermama: This is a design store that showcases contemporary and traditional Japanese crafts, such as porcelain, glassware, and textiles. The store also collaborates with local artists and craftsmen to create unique and meaningful products.
Truefitt & Hill: This is a classic barber shop that offers grooming services for men, such as haircuts, shaves, and massages. The shop has a rich history and heritage, dating back to 1805 in London, and has served many distinguished clients, such as Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, and Oscar Wilde.
Lorna Jane: This is a women’s activewear brand that aims to inspire and empower women to live their best lives. You can find a range of products, such as sports bras, leggings, tops, and accessories, that are stylish, comfortable, and functional.
The Screening Room: This is a cinema and rooftop bar that offers a unique and intimate movie experience. You can watch a variety of films, from classics to indie, while enjoying a drink and a snack. The rooftop bar also offers a stunning view of the city skyline.
Activities and Attractions
Ann Siang Hill is not only a place for shopping and entertainment, but also for activities and attractions. You can find a variety of things to do, ranging from relaxing to adventurous, nature to art, and culture to fun. Some of the best activities and attractions in the district are:
Ann Siang Hill Park: This is a green oasis in the middle of the city, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk, a picnic, or a workout. The park also offers a panoramic view of the district and its surroundings, and is a popular spot for photography.
Murals: This is a collection of colorful and creative murals that adorn the walls of the district, adding to its charm and character. You can find murals that depict the district’s history, culture, and lifestyle, as well as some that are abstract and whimsical. You can also join a mural walking tour to learn more about the artists and their stories.
Walking tours: This is a great way to explore and discover the district, as well as its neighboring areas, such as Chinatown, Telok Ayer, and Tanjong Pagar. You can join a guided walking tour that covers various themes, such as heritage, food, or art, or you can create your own itinerary using a map or an app.
Festivals: This is a fun and festive way to experience the district, as well as its community and culture. You can find festivals that celebrate various occasions, such as Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Halloween, and Christmas. You can expect to see decorations, performances, markets, and more.
Ann Siang Hill is a district that offers a rich and diverse experience for visitors, with its history, culture, and lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a day or a night, a week or a weekend, you will find something to suit your interests and preferences. Ann Siang Hill is a district that you will want to visit again and again.
