It doesn’t matter if you’re a localite, a tourist or an expat - if you’ve been associated with Singapore in some capacity, there’s no way you don’t know about the budding locality, bordered by Neil Rd, Jiak Chuan Road, Teck Lim Road and Keong Saik Road. This precinct has enormous colour and movement attracting people morning, noon and night.
Be it fine dine restaurants, trendy bars buzzing with high spirited gentry, or unique places to check out if you consider yourself a shopaholic, Keong Saik has got you covered. Oh, and if you have an understanding of street art, prepare yourself for the perfect instagrammable eye candy. Given below is a list of all the cool things you can do while on this fascinating expedition. Keep reading to find out what Expat Choice has compiled for you. Image Credit: Kesa House Facebook Page
Feel Like a Shopping Spree?
Mills
Head over to Mills along 30A Keong Saik Road if you’re on the lookout for a chic and dapper looking tailor made suit. Starting at a little over $400, these suits are value for money and are sure to turn heads as you walk down the street. Mills specializes in suits with a classic touch over trendy looking ones, making them timeless. What’s more is that you can only walk in if you have an appointment, ensuring 100% attention from your tailor to get you the piece of clothing that “suits” you the most. Image Credit: Mills Facebook Page
Dustbunny Vintage
Yes, you guessed it right. Dustbunny Vintage should be your go to place if you like anything remotely vintage. This place strikes the perfect balance between vintage and modern, so if you’re an old soul trapped in a young body, you’re one step away from liberation. They have everything from shift dresses to pencil skirts, flare pants and some of the most vivacious prints you can think of. Moreover, you can also find beautiful pieces of clothing curated and collected from all across the world. Why are you still here? Go shop! Image Credit: Dustbunny Vintage Facebook Page
a. 2-A Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089110
s. www.facebook.com/dustbunnyvintageshop/
t. +65 6222 0116
Live a Little
Covo
You don’t need an occasion for the next hairdo or a complete makeover. You just need to be in the right place at the right time whenever you fancy getting one. If you’re around, head over to the Japanese hair salon, Covo for the perfect haircut, or pamper yourself with services like Keratin treatment, hair straightening, or silky treatment for modest prices and step out sporting a fresh look. Image Credit: Covo Facebook Page
a. 43 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089147
Bodylite
Feeling stressed? Head over to Bodylite for the quintessential relaxing experience. A cosy ambience welcomes you with treatments like the 90 minute massage, and the Body Wrap, which includes a complete body exfoliation followed by full detoxification with a hydrating mask and infrared light- the best thing if you have a rather tenacious muscle giving you pain. Once done, you’ll feel good as new. Check out their website for more details on prices and offers. Image Credit: Bodylite.com
The Working Capitol
With the restrictions in place, we’ve all been stuck at home, staring at the laptop screen for hours on end. That can get to you after a point, but thanks to The Working Capitol, you can now take your laptop (and get a cup of coffee to go) and head over to this space perfect for collaboration for various events. The posh and understated interiors are surely going to be a welcome change from your bedroom. Forgot to pack lunch? Don’t worry, you can also find popular chains like Shake Shack, Meta and Man Man. Image Credit: The Working Capitol Facebook Page
a. 1 Keong Saik Rd., The Working Capitol, Singapore 089109
Duxton Plain Park
Duxton Plain Park is a quiet, cosy and peaceful place if you want to get away from the hustle of city life for some fresh air. Here, you’ll find yourself in close company of nature with a tinge of the city vibe to balance things out. This park is brimming with culture and history, so if you’re here for sightseeing, you’ll definitely fall short of time. The twisted mirrors here are reminiscent of the old Kranji railway, which was responsible for the origin of the park. Walk through the park on a warm afternoon or sit in the cool breeze of the evening as you introspect. Image Credit: Flickr.com
a. New Bridge Rd, Singapore 089140
w. www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/parks-and-nature-reserves/duxton-plain-park
Kesa House
Looking to live a little? Kesa House at 55 Keong Saik Road has got you covered. Much more than just a hotel, Kesa House is renowned as the ideal living space with posh designs, multifunctional rooms and cafes like the Affogato Bar and Kesalobby. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to Singapore or just need to get out of your house for a weekend getaway of sheer pampering. Kesa House will leave no stone unturned in showing you the best time of your life. Image Credit: KeSa House Facebook Page
w. www.oakwood.com/the-unlimited-collection/singapore/singapore/kesa-house
Don’t be Moody, Be a Foodie
Gaston Burgundy Bistro and Wine Bar
When it comes to food, the city of Singapore never fails to amaze us. The sheer diversity in the cuisine is one of the major attractions for people. Gaston Burgundy Bistro and Wine Bar is one of the few restaurants specialising in Burgundy cuisine, owing to Chef Geoffery Daurelle’s homely recipes. They have the Ceviche de Barramundi with dragon fruit Tiger’s milk and crispy rice paper, which is perfect for lunch, or you can also call for the Black Angus Beef Rump or the all time favourite Mignon de Porc, a pork tenderloin with mashed, braised endive and some decadent peach jus. Chop chop! Image Credit: Gaston Burgundy Bistro and Wine Bar Facebook Page
a. 25 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089132
Tong Ah Eating House
Ah, it’s Tong Ah! Head over to Tong Ah Eating House and get your hands on some award winning delightful dishes like Kaya Toast, and pair it up with some heart warming coffee or tea. It comes absolutely free for all orders above $20, so pick your order wisely. Tong Ah Eating House has been around for more than eight decades, so you won’t have to think twice before trusting them with your food. Image Credit: Tong Ah Eating House Facebook Page
a. 35 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089142
w. www.tong-ah-eating-house.business.site/
The Guild
There’s no need for guilt to head over to The Guild, which is famous for 19 different types of craft beers. What’s more you ask? Well, lip smacking cocktails, natural wines and hearty portions of comfort food are among the other things that are waiting to be devoured. We’re talking delicious Mac and Cheese and Canto style Braised Beef Sandwich with the freshest ingredients. Beer and Mac and Cheese with a wood and tile decor! What more do you need? Image Credit: The Guild Facebook Page
a. 55 Keong Saik Rd., #01-01, Singapore 089158
Butcher Boy
If you’re looking for food options on a Sunday afternoon, you have GOT to go to Butcher Boy for their Sunday Roast from noon to 4 pm. The signature Butcher Roast is the perfect blend between Asian and Western fusion cuisine, and includes roast potatoes, schezwan brussels, yorkshire pudding and carrot miso mash. Either that or you can go to Bao Town with the Peking Bao and the Warm Chilli Crab. Oh, and if you’re not a meat eater, then they also have the Roasted Cauliflower Steak for the vegetarians in the house. Image Credit: Butcher Boy Facebook Page
a. 31 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089138
Unagi Tei Japanese Restaurant
We’re all familiar with Ross Geller’s iconic “UNAGI” in F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Well, if you’re an Unagi lover or even just a F.R.I.E.N.D.S. fan, do yourself a favour and check out Unagi Tei Japanese Restaurant at 1 Keong Saik Road. Beautifully chargrilled Unagi comes on a plate, swimming in sweet and salty eel sauce- the ultimate crowd favourite. The best part is that you can watch as the chef draws every ounce of experience and cooks up your dish. This place definitely deserves a visit. Image Credit: Unagi Tei Japanese Restaurant Facebook Page
s. www.facebook.com/Man-Man-Japanese-Unagi-Restaurant-Keong-saik-185009705272373/
Kafe Utu
Kafe Utu happens to be Singapore’s first modern Afro cafe. This dainty looking space is adorned with a breathtaking interior and warm and pleasant couches to snuggle in. Go the healthy way and call for traditional dishes like Uji, Kenyan porridge with chia seeds, quinoa, yoghurt and peanut butter. If you’re in the mood to try something new, we recommend the East African Bean Stew which has fava beans, coconut cream, bacon, paneer, sausages and eggs. Seafood fanatics will be pleased to know that they haven’t been forgotten. Kafe Utu serves a mean Swahili Fish Curry, made of Red Snapper with tamarind and coconut paste, as well as the Lamu Stingray Stew which comes with piping hot coconut rice. Honestly, this is the best place for African cuisine in Singapore. Image Credit: Kafe Utu Facebook Page
Meta
Did you say French cuisine with a dash of Asia? Okay we’re sold. Korean Chef Sun Kim is the best thing to have happened to Meta, what with his Korean heritage, Japanese culinary techniques and hands-on training from the West. The result? One of the most innovative menus at a one Michelin starred restaurant along 1 Keong Saik Road. The menu card sees dishes with a combination of French and Japanese flavours, so you can expect things like foie gras and chawanmushi, or Lamb Saddle and Korean BBQ. Also keep an eye out for some of the seasonal ingredients. You never know when you may be caught by surprise. Image Credit: Meta Facebook Page
Thevar
Indian cuisine is known for its vibrant colours and tantalising flavours, and that is exactly what Thevar is all about- and more! The menu over here boasts dishes like Black Truffle Samosa and Madras Crab Curry Rice. Are you not a meat eater? Fret not, for there are equally delectable options for vegetarians as well. Call for the Spiced Amra Donut or the Vindaloo Young Jackfruit Roti. Who said you have to eat meat to enjoy food? Image Credit: Thevar Facebook Page
a. 9 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089117
KYUU by Shunshui
Lose yourself in the delicious Japanese food options at KYUU by Shunshui. Their 10 course sashimi and robatayaki menu includes the freshest ingredients, and is definitely a steal at $129. If you’re not one for a fixed menu, you can just as easily skim through the a la carte options. Options include but are not limited to the Scallop with decadent butter soy sauce or the Duck Breast with yuzu pepper. Put perfect finishing touches with a boatload of sake options and call it a night. Image Credit: KYUU by Shunsui Facebook Page
a. 29 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089136
w. www.kyuu.sg/
Olivia Restaurant and Lounge
Olivia Restaurant and Lounge promises an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. We suggest you go a little early; the list of signature dishes is long, so you don’t want to be famished before you even place the order. Their starters include the unique Spherical Olives for a more than reasonable price of $1.50. Tuck into the grilled octopus with the juicy pork belly and potato foam, and devour the decadent Wagyu striploin with truffle sauce and confit Piquillo peppers. No meal is complete without a spot of dessert. Order their iconic Creamy Homemade Cheesecake with almond sable for the perfect end to the meal. Image Credit: Olivia Restaurant and Lounge Facebook Page
a. 55 Keong Saik Rd., 01-03, Singapore 089158
The Old Man
Any Hemingway fans here? The doors of The Old Man open into a Hemingway themed bar adorned with dark and gold interiors and tantalising cocktails for your inebriation. These cocktails come with a hint of Asian flavours like The Sun Also Rises, made with gin with a dash of curry leaves, sweet vermouth sous-vide pandan leaves and lime kafir. If this is not strong enough for you, go straight for Death in the Afternoon which is an absinthe cocktail spiked with prosecco, coco-pandan yoghurt, froth and nutmeg. We know you’re awestruck but don’t forget the bar snacks. Pay a visit to Cheese Town on the Cheese Board or hog mouthfuls of dirty fries with intermittent gulps of beer. And of course, there’s always the creamy cheesecake slice waiting for you at the end. Image Credit: The Old Man Facebook Page
a. 55 Keong Saik Rd., #01-04, Singapore 089158
Taratatta Brasserie
You know you’re in for an authentic meal when the restaurant is run by two native chefs. Taratatta Brasserie is all things French, and it specialises in bringing homely French classics like escargot, duck confit, along with a supreme collection of cheeses and wines. What’s more is that you can get a delectable set lunch at a modest price of $38 per person. Image Credit: Taratatta Brasserie Facebook Page
a. 35A Keong Saik Rd., Ground Floor, Singapore 089142
Afterglow by Anglow
This one's for all our vegan friends out there. If you’re a friend of the beasts or if you just feel like cutting down on the protein, head over to Afterglow by Anglow. All health conscious folk will be pleased to know that Afterglow is completely plant based, gluten free and free from preservatives, refined sugar and artificial flavours. The mushroom Teriyaki Meatballs are a must have, and the Salted Egg(less) Sweet Potato Fries hit the sweet spot. After that, depending on how hungry you are, you can choose one (or both) from the Tom Yum Zoodles or the Smoked Stack Burger. Image Credit: After Glow Facebook Page
a. 24 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089131
Cure
The only cure for your hankering for Nua cuisine is The Finder’s Expatpreneur Award winning restaurant, Cure. Helmed by Chef Andrew Walsh, Cure is his first venture as Chef-owner, and it promises you grade A quality plates deeply inspired by his Irish heritage. If you’re in the mood to try something different (as you should), we recommend the Irish Brown Crab and the Fraughan Sunday. Image Credit: Cure Facebook Page
a. 21 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089128
Bread and Hearth
This is probably the first on the list to serve everything from an all day breakfast to main courses, artisanal sandwiches and much more. If you have a soft corner for bread, allow us to tell you that the breads here are handcrafted, and are baked with timeless techniques which won’t fail to deliver exceptional results for generations to come. Start big in the morning with The Big Breakfast- double portion of bacon with egg and some rich and creamy cheese sauce. We promise that you won’t get enough of their bread, so we suggest you take some home. Some special recommendations are the Fig Loaf or the all time favourite Cinnamon Bun. Image Credit: Bread and Hearth Facebook Page
a. 18 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089125
Burnt Ends
Yes, you guessed it right! Burnt Ends is all about straight up, no nonsense cooking on wood ovens and grills. Not for nothing is Burnt Ends ranked 14 on the 2021 San Pellegrino Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List. The Wagyu Striploin is charred to perfection, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it impossible to resist. If you’re in the mood for some seafood, they also have King Crab Legs, beautifully marinated with some zesty garlic butter. Get your knives and forks out and get chopping! Image Credit: Burnt Ends Facebook Page
a. 7 Dempsey Rd, #01-04, Singapore 249671
Potato Head
If you’re even a little familiar with Keong Saik Road, you definitely know about the iconic red and white shophouse. This shophouse happens to be the home of Potato Head, which occupies as many as four storeys, with each storey offering a different vibe. Be spoilt for options as you peruse Three Buns on the first and second floors. Psst! The Impossible Burger is impossible to miss. Go up a level and enter into Studio 1939 if you’re looking to spend some quality private time with your partner. Be sure to book in advance, for they have a reservation only policy. To top it all, the fourth storey houses the rooftop bar, which we think will be the perfect setting if you’re looking to throw a party (with limited people of course). Image Credit: Potato Head Facebook Page
a. 36 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089143
w. www.potatohead.co/singapore
Pasta Bar
There’s always room for pasta. Situated along 55 Keong Saik Road is this cosy and intimate spot, a haven for pasta lovers in Singapore. Chef Allessandro leads the kitchen from the front, and is heavily inspired by his ancestral recipes. Each of these recipes gives rise to a delightful pasta dish which is a burst of flavours from the very first bite. The pasta dough is handmade every day with top notch flour and fresh eggs. Some signature dishes here include the Tagliatelle with the 24 hour stewed beef ragout, the Garganelli Cacio e Pepe and the Truffle Fettucine. Buon appetito! Video Credit: JustForExposureSG
