Jalan Besar is more than just a one-way road in Singapore. It is a neighbourhood that boasts a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a diverse food scene. Whether you are looking for heritage, art, sports, or entertainment, Jalan Besar has something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we will show you the best things to do, eat, drink, shop, and stay in Jalan Besar, Singapore's hippest and historic district.
Things to Do
Jalan Besar is a treasure trove of attractions and activities that will keep you busy and entertained. Here are some of the things you can do in this area:
Explore the Heritage
Jalan Besar has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. It was once a swampy area that was home to plantations, farms, and factories. It also witnessed several battles and riots during the colonial and Japanese occupation periods. Today, you can still see traces of its past in the architecture, monuments, and landmarks that dot the area. Some of the places you can visit to learn more about Jalan Besar's heritage are:
Jalan Besar Heritage Trail: This is a self-guided walking trail that covers 14 sites of historical and cultural significance in Jalan Besar. You can download the brochure and map from the National Heritage Board website and follow the route at your own pace. Some of the highlights of the trail include the former New World Amusement Park, the former Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, and the former Seiko Building.
The Former Ford Factory: This is a museum that showcases the history of Singapore during the Second World War, especially the events leading up to and following the British surrender to the Japanese in 1942. The museum is housed in the former Ford Motor Factory, where the surrender document was signed. You can see the original document, as well as other exhibits and artefacts that tell the stories of the war and its impact on the people of Singapore.
The Indian National Army Monument: This is a memorial that commemorates the Indian National Army (INA), a group of Indian soldiers who fought alongside the Japanese against the British during the Second World War. The monument was erected in 1995 at the site where the INA headquarters used to be. It features a bronze statue of Subhas Chandra Bose, the leader of the INA, and a plaque with the names of the INA martyrs.
Appreciate the Art
Jalan Besar is not only a place of history, but also a place of creativity and expression. It is home to many artists, designers, and craftsmen who showcase their talents and skills in various forms and mediums. You can admire and support their works by visiting these places:
Mud Rock Ceramics: This is a pottery studio and gallery that offers workshops, classes, and events for anyone who wants to learn or practice the art of pottery. You can also browse and buy their handmade ceramic products, such as mugs, bowls, plates, and vases. The studio is run by two passionate potters, Michelle Lim and Ng Seok Har, who aim to promote and preserve the craft of pottery in Singapore.
Tyrwhitt Road Murals: This is a series of colourful and whimsical murals that adorn the walls of the shophouses along Tyrwhitt Road. The murals were painted by local artists, such as Yip Yew Chong, Antz, and Zero, as part of the ArtWalk Little India project in 2016. The murals depict scenes and stories of the people and culture of Little India, a neighbouring area of Jalan Besar.
The Refinery: This is a multi-concept space that combines a restaurant, a bar, and a workshop. The workshop, located on the third floor, is a creative hub that hosts various events and activities, such as art exhibitions, craft markets, and workshops. You can also rent the space for your own events or projects. The workshop is run by The General Co, a collective of local makers and artisans who share their skills and knowledge with the community.
Enjoy the Sports
Jalan Besar is not only a place of culture, but also a place of action and excitement. It is a hotspot for sports enthusiasts and fans who flock to the area to watch or participate in various sports events and activities. Here are some of the places you can go to enjoy the sports in Jalan Besar:
Jalan Besar Stadium: This is a football stadium that hosts local and international matches, such as the Singapore Premier League, the Singapore Cup, and the AFF Suzuki Cup. The stadium has a capacity of 8,000 spectators and features a retractable roof and an artificial turf. You can catch the action and cheer for your favourite teams and players at the stadium, or watch the live broadcast on the giant screen outside the stadium.
The Cage: This is a sports facility that offers indoor and outdoor soccer pitches for rent. You can book a pitch for your own games or join the leagues and tournaments that are organised by the facility. The facility also has a cafe, a bar, and a lounge where you can relax and socialise with other players and guests.
The Deck: This is a skate park that caters to skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters of all levels and ages. The park has various ramps, rails, and obstacles that challenge and thrill the users. The park also has a shop that sells skateboards, accessories, and apparel, as well as a cafe that serves drinks and snacks.
Things to Eat
Jalan Besar is a food paradise that offers a wide range of cuisines and dishes that will satisfy your taste buds and stomach. Whether you are looking for local, international, fusion, or exotic food, Jalan Besar has something for you. Here are some of the things you can eat in this area:
Savour the Local Food
Jalan Besar is a melting pot of cultures and influences, and this is reflected in its local food scene. You can find dishes from various ethnic groups and regions, such as Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Peranakan, that have been adapted and evolved over time. Some of the places you can go to savour the local food are:
Swee Choon Dim Sum: This is a popular and famous dim sum restaurant that has been serving customers since 1962. The restaurant offers a variety of dim sum, such as steamed, fried, and baked, that are freshly made and delicious. Some of the signature dishes include the liu sha bao (salted egg yolk custard bun), the mee suah kueh (fried vermicelli cake), and the xiao long bao (soup dumpling).
Sungei Road Laksa: This is a legendary and iconic laksa stall that has been operating since 1956. The stall serves a unique and authentic version of laksa, which is a spicy coconut milk-based noodle soup. The laksa is cooked over a charcoal fire and served with cockles, fish cake, bean sprouts, and a dollop of sambal (chilli paste). The stall only has one size and one price for the laksa, and only accepts cash payment.
Scissors Cut Curry Rice: This is a simple and humble curry rice stall that has been attracting long queues of customers since 1988. The stall serves a generous and hearty portion of rice topped with various dishes, such as pork chop, braised cabbage, and fried egg, and drenched with curry sauce. The stall uses a pair of scissors to cut the dishes into bite-sized pieces, hence the name of the stall.
Indulge in the International Food
Jalan Besar is a cosmopolitan and diverse area that offers a range of cuisines and dishes from different countries and regions, such as Western, Japanese, Korean, and Thai. You can find restaurants and cafes that serve authentic and quality food that will transport you to another place and time. Some of the places you can go to indulge in the international food are:
The Beast: This is a Southern American restaurant and bar that serves comfort food and drinks that will make you feel at home. The restaurant offers dishes such as fried chicken and waffles, mac and cheese, and pulled pork sandwich, as well as drinks such as bourbon, whiskey, and craft beer. The restaurant also has a live band and a trivia night that add to the fun and lively atmosphere.
Niku Katsumata: This is a Japanese restaurant that specialises in wagyu beef, which is a premium and high-quality beef that is known for its marbling and tenderness. The restaurant offers various cuts and grades of wagyu beef, such as sirloin, ribeye, and chuck, that are grilled on a crystal plate that minimises the oil and smoke. The restaurant also offers other dishes such as sashimi, sushi, and salad, as well as sake, wine, and tea.
Wimbly Lu: This is a dessert cafe that serves sweet treats and drinks that will satisfy your cravings and mood. The cafe offers desserts such as waffles, crepes, cakes, and ice cream, as well as drinks such as coffee, tea, and chocolate. The cafe has a cozy and charming decor that features vintage furniture, fairy lights, and plants.
Feast on the Fusion Food
Jalan Besar is a creative and innovative area that offers a variety of cuisines and dishes that combine and blend different elements and flavours, such as Asian, European, and Middle Eastern. You can find restaurants and cafes that serve fusion food that will surprise and delight you with their originality and taste. Some of the places you can go to feast on the fusion food are:
Char: This is a Chinese restaurant that serves roast meats with a twist. The restaurant uses a secret recipe that infuses the meats with herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, and cumin, that give them a unique and aromatic flavour. The restaurant offers dishes such as char siew (barbecued pork), siew yoke (roasted pork belly), and roast duck, as well as noodles, rice, and vegetables.
The Tuckshop: This is a cafe and bar that serves local and western food with a modern and playful touch. The cafe uses local ingredients and flavours, such as kaya (coconut jam), gula melaka (palm sugar), and laksa (spicy noodle soup), to create dishes such as kaya toast ice cream, gula melaka affogato, and laksa pasta. The cafe also has a selection of craft beers, cocktails, and coffee.
Artichoke: This is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves food that is inspired by the street food and culture of the region. The restaurant uses fresh and quality ingredients, such as hummus, falafel, and shawarma, to create dishes that are bold and flavourful, such as fried chicken skin with toum (garlic sauce), lamb shank with freekeh (roasted green wheat), and baklava cheesecake. The restaurant also has a lively and fun vibe that features music, art, and graffiti.
Things to Drink
Jalan Besar is a thirsty traveller's dream, as it offers a wide range of drinks and beverages that will quench your thirst and lift your spirits. Whether you are looking for coffee, tea, beer, wine, or cocktails, Jalan Besar has something for you. Here are some of the things you can drink in this area:
Sip the Coffee
Jalan Besar is a coffee lover's paradise, as it boasts a number of cafes and roasters that serve quality and specialty coffee. You can find coffee from different origins and roasts, as well as different methods and styles of brewing and serving. Some of the places you can go to sip the coffee are:
Apartment Coffee: This is a minimalist and cozy cafe that serves single-origin coffee that is roasted in-house. The cafe offers various types of coffee, such as espresso, filter, and cold brew, as well as different brewing methods, such as V60, Aeropress, and Syphon. The cafe also has a selection of pastries and cakes that pair well with the coffee.
Chye Seng Huat Hardware: This is a hip and industrial cafe that is housed in a former hardware store. The cafe features a 360-degree coffee bar that allows you to watch the baristas prepare your coffee. The cafe offers a variety of coffee, such as espresso, filter, and nitro, as well as different blends and roasts that change regularly. The cafe also has a food menu that serves brunch, lunch, and dinner items.
Tolido's Espresso Nook: This is a rustic and homely cafe that serves artisanal coffee that is roasted locally. The cafe offers a range of coffee, such as espresso, latte, and mocha, as well as different flavours and toppings, such as salted caramel, hazelnut, and marshmallow. The cafe also has a food menu that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, such as pancakes, sandwiches, and pasta.
Relax with the Tea
Jalan Besar is a tea lover's delight, as it offers a variety of tea and tea-related drinks and desserts that will soothe and refresh you. You can find tea from different regions and cultures, such as Chinese, Indian, and British, as well as different types and flavours of tea, such as black, green, and herbal. Some of the places you can go to relax with the tea are:
Tea Chapter: This is a traditional and elegant tea house that offers a cultural and educational experience of Chinese tea. The tea house has a variety of tea, such as oolong, pu'er, and jasmine, as well as different grades and vintages of tea, such as imperial, royal, and grand. The tea house also offers tea appreciation sessions, tea ceremonies, and tea workshops that teach you the history, art, and etiquette of tea.
Heavenly Wang: This is a nostalgic and retro cafe that offers a taste of Singapore's old-school coffee shop culture. The cafe serves local tea, such as teh (milk tea), teh tarik (pulled tea), and teh halia (ginger tea), as well as local snacks and dishes, such as kaya toast, nasi lemak, and mee siam. The cafe also has a vintage decor that features old photos, posters, and memorabilia that evoke a sense of nostalgia.
The 1872 Clipper Tea Co.: This is a modern and chic tea boutique that offers a premium and exquisite selection of tea. The boutique has a variety of tea, such as black, green, white, and herbal, as well as different collections and flavours of tea, such as classic, infusion, and bespoke. The boutique also offers tea accessories, such as teapots, cups, and infusers, as well as tea gifts, such as hampers, sets, and vouchers.
Unwind with the Beer
Jalan Besar is a beer lover's heaven, as it offers a range of beer and beer-related drinks and snacks that will quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger. You can find beer from different countries and brands, such as local, craft, and imported, as well as different types and flavours of beer, such as lager, ale, and stout. Some of the places you can go to unwind with the beer are:
Druggists: This is a hip and quirky bar that is housed in a former Chinese medicine hall. The bar features 23 taps that serve a rotating selection of craft beers from around the world, such as Belgium, Japan, and New Zealand. The bar also serves a variety of snacks and dishes that pair well with the beer, such as chicken wings, fries, and burgers.
The 1925 Brewing Co.: This is a family-owned and operated brewery and restaurant that serves their own brews and food. The brewery produces a range of beers that are inspired by their Teochew heritage and culture, such as the Yellow Van, the Blk 622, and the Manuka Stout. The restaurant serves a range of dishes that are influenced by their travels and experiences, such as the pork belly, the beef rendang, and the laksa pasta.
Little Island Brewing Co.: This is a self-service and self-pour brewery and restaurant that offers a fun and interactive experience of drinking and dining. The brewery has 10 taps that dispense their own beers, such as the Sister Golden Ale, the That Old Black Magic, and the Singapore Pale Ale. The restaurant has a live charcoal grill that cooks up a variety of meats and seafood, such as the ribeye steak, the lamb rack, and the barramundi.
Things to Shop
Jalan Besar is a shopper's dream, as it offers a variety of products and items that will suit your needs and wants. Whether you are looking for vintage, boutique, handmade, or quirky, Jalan Besar has something for you. Here are some of the things you can shop in this area:
Browse the Vintage
Jalan Besar is a treasure trove of vintage and retro items that will appeal to your nostalgia and curiosity. You can find items from different eras and genres, such as clothing, accessories, books, and furniture, that have been collected and preserved by the owners and sellers. Some of the places you can go to browse the vintage are:
The Retro Factory: This is a vintage and retro store that sells a variety of items, such as clothes, shoes, bags, and sunglasses, that date back to the 1950s to the 1990s. The store also has a collection of vinyl records, cassette tapes, and CDs that span various genres and artists, such as rock, pop, and jazz. The store also hosts events and parties that feature live music and DJs that play retro tunes.
The Little Dröm Store: This is a whimsical and quirky store that sells a variety of items, such as accessories, stationery, toys, and art, that are inspired by the local culture and childhood memories. The store also has a gallery space that showcases the works of local artists and designers, as well as a workshop space that hosts various classes and activities, such as embroidery, terrarium, and origami.
BooksActually: This is an independent and literary bookstore that sells a variety of books, such as fiction, poetry, and essays, that are written by local and international authors. The bookstore also has a publishing arm that produces and distributes books by emerging and established writers, as well as a vending machine that dispenses books at random. The bookstore also organises events and readings that feature authors and poets.
Splurge on the Boutique
Jalan Besar is a fashionista's paradise, as it offers a range of clothes and accessories that are stylish and unique. You can find clothes and accessories from different brands and designers, such as local, indie, and international, that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the places you can go to splurge on the boutique are:
Superspace: This is a trendy and edgy store that sells clothes and accessories that are bold and colourful. The store features local and regional brands and designers, such as Mash-Up, Depression, and Phantasma, that offer streetwear, casualwear, and partywear. The store also has a nail salon, a photo booth, and a DJ console that add to the fun and funky vibe.
Nana & Bird: This is a chic and cozy store that sells clothes and accessories that are elegant and feminine. The store showcases local and international brands and designers, such as Aijek, In Good Company, and Ong Shunmugam, that offer dresses, tops, and skirts. The store also has a curated selection of jewellery, bags, and shoes that complement the outfits.
The General Store: This is a minimalist and modern store that sells clothes and accessories that are simple and functional. The store features local and overseas brands and designers, such as Gnome & Bow, Obbi Good Label, and Bellroy, that offer shirts, pants, and jackets. The store also has a collection of wallets, belts, and watches that are sleek and durable.
Buy the Handmade
Jalan Besar is a craft lover's dream, as it offers a variety of products and items that are made by hand and with love. You can find products and items from different categories and themes, such as pottery, jewellery, stationery, and art, that are created and sold by local makers and artisans. Some of the places you can go to buy the handmade are:
Mud Rock Ceramics: This is a pottery studio and gallery that offers workshops, classes, and events for anyone who wants to learn or practice the art of pottery. You can also browse and buy their handmade ceramic products, such as mugs, bowls, plates, and vases. The studio is run by two passionate potters, Michelle Lim and Ng Seok Har, who aim to promote and preserve the craft of pottery in Singapore.
The Little Dröm Store: This is a whimsical and quirky store that sells a variety of items, such as accessories, stationery, toys, and art, that are inspired by the local culture and childhood memories. The store also has a gallery space that showcases the works of local artists and designers, as well as a workshop space that hosts various classes and activities, such as embroidery, terrarium, and origami.
The General Co: This is a collective and platform that supports and connects local makers and artisans who share their skills and knowledge with the community. The collective offers a range of products and items, such as wallets, belts, watches, and wall-mounted bottle openers, that are made by hand and with quality. The collective also hosts events and markets that feature and sell their products and items.
Shop the Quirky
Jalan Besar is a fun and funky area that offers a variety of products and items that are quirky and unusual. You can find products and items from different genres and niches, such as comics, games, music, and gadgets, that cater to your hobbies and interests. Some of the places you can go to shop the quirky are:
Comics World: This is a comic book store that sells a variety of comics, graphic novels, and manga, that cover different genres and themes, such as superheroes, horror, romance, and sci-fi. The store also sells a variety of merchandise and collectibles, such as figurines, posters, and t-shirts, that are related to the comics and characters. The store also organises events and signings that feature comic artists and writers.
Play Nation: This is a gaming cafe and store that offers a variety of games and consoles, such as board games, card games, video games, and arcade games, that suit different tastes and preferences. The cafe and store also provides a comfortable and spacious environment where you can play and enjoy the games with your friends and family. The cafe and store also hosts events and tournaments that feature and reward the gamers.
Retrophonic Records: This is a record store that sells a variety of vinyl records, CDs, and cassettes, that span different genres and artists, such as rock, pop, jazz, and blues. The store also sells a variety of audio equipment and accessories, such as turntables, speakers, and headphones, that enhance and improve the sound quality and experience. The store also has a listening booth where you can sample and enjoy the music.
Things to Stay
Jalan Besar is a cozy and comfortable area that offers a range of accommodation options that will suit your budget and style. Whether you are looking for luxury, mid-range, budget, or backpackers, Jalan Besar has something for you. Here are some of the things you can stay in this area:
Sleep in the Luxury
Jalan Besar is a classy and elegant area that offers a variety of hotels and resorts that will pamper and spoil you with their amenities and services. You can find hotels and resorts from different brands and categories, such as boutique, heritage, and design, that cater to your taste and preference. Some of the places you can go to sleep in the luxury are:
The Vagabond Club: This is a boutique hotel that offers a unique and artistic experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hotel features a stunning and eclectic decor that showcases the works of local and international artists, such as Anouska Hempel, Jacques Garcia, and Mark Ryden. The hotel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as a whiskey library, a salon, and a gym.
Kam Leng Hotel: This is a heritage hotel that offers a nostalgic and charming experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hotel preserves and restores the original features and furnishings of the building, which dates back to 1927. The hotel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as a cafe, a bar, and a laundry.
Hotel Yan: This is a design hotel that offers a modern and sleek experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hotel features a minimalist and industrial design that uses concrete, wood, and metal as the main materials. The hotel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as a rooftop terrace, a coffee shop, and a bike rental.
Rest in the Mid-Range
Jalan Besar is a friendly and affordable area that offers a variety of hotels and hostels that will provide you with a comfortable and convenient stay. You can find hotels and hostels from different types and themes, such as family, business, and leisure, that suit your needs and expectations. Some of the places you can go to rest in the mid-range are:
Fisher BnB: This is a family-friendly and cozy hostel that offers a home away from home experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hostel features a spacious and clean environment that has a mix of dorms and private rooms, as well as a common area and a kitchen. The hostel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as free breakfast, free wifi, and free luggage storage.
Arcadia Hotel: This is a business-friendly and stylish hotel that offers a hassle-free and productive experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hotel features a contemporary and chic design that has a variety of rooms and suites, as well as a meeting room and a business centre. The hotel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as free minibar, free wifi, and free parking.
Dream Lodge: This is a leisure-friendly and trendy hostel that offers a fun and social experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hostel features a colorful and vibrant design that has a mix of pods and cabins, as well as a lounge and a garden. The hostel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as free breakfast, free wifi, and free events.
Recharge in the Budget
Jalan Besar is a cheap and cheerful area that offers a variety of hotels and hostels that will give you a basic and decent stay. You can find hotels and hostels from different sizes and locations, such as small, large, central, and peripheral, that fit your budget and convenience. Some of the places you can go to recharge in the budget are:
Beary Best! Hostel: This is a cute and cozy hostel that offers a friendly and warm experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hostel features a bear-themed decor that has a mix of dorms and private rooms, as well as a common area and a pantry. The hostel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as free breakfast, free wifi, and free movies.
Hotel 81 Dickson: This is a simple and clean hotel that offers a comfortable and convenient experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hotel features a standard and functional design that has a variety of rooms and suites, as well as a lobby and a lift. The hotel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as free wifi, free parking, and free toiletries.
Footprints Hostel: This is a lively and fun hostel that offers a social and interactive experience of staying in Jalan Besar. The hostel features a bright and cheerful design that has a mix of dorms and private rooms, as well as a common area and a kitchen. The hostel also offers a range of amenities and services, such as free breakfast, free wifi, and free tours.
Conclusion
Jalan Besar is a neighbourhood that has it all: history, culture, food, art, sports, and more. It is a place that will surprise and delight you with its diversity and charm. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate in Jalan Besar. Here are some tips and suggestions for you to make the most of your visit to Jalan Besar:
- The best time to visit Jalan Besar is during the day, when you can explore the heritage, art, and shopping scenes, and during the night, when you can enjoy the food, drink, and entertainment scenes.
- The best way to get around Jalan Besar is by public transport, such as buses and trains, or by walking or cycling, as the area is relatively small and compact. You can also use taxis or ride-hailing apps, such as Grab or Gojek, for convenience and comfort.
- The best way to stay safe and secure in Jalan Besar is by following the common sense and etiquette rules, such as keeping your valuables close, being aware of your surroundings, and respecting the locals and their customs.
