One of Singapore’s oldest cultural precincts, explore Kampong Gelam’s rich history and vibrant spaces where tradition and modernity come together in a heady blend, and sample the variety of halal food options available along the streets.
LessAs you explore this historic district, let the golden dome of the majestic Sultan Mosque be the landmark that guides you along its busy streets and bustling byways. Built in 1824 by Sultan Hussein Shah, this magnificent place of worship is one of Singapore’s most prominent religious buildings. Tours of the mosque’s grounds are available in a variety of languages.
Foodies taking a stroll around the neighbourhood will find local delicacies and global dishes to feed their cravings for new flavours. For traditional fare, drop by Hjh Maimunah—a Michelin Bib gourmand-listed eatery that specialises in nasi padang (steamed rice served with various dishes). Feast on a spread of dishes such as Sundanese grilled chicken and tahu telur (fried tofu, eggs and vegetables topped with prawn paste sauce).
Located near the Sultan Mosque, this quaint space is home to beautiful artefacts, from batik (a cloth patterning technique of wax-resisting dyeing) textiles to traditional trinkets. The shop also houses a lovingly maintained collection of kris (dagger with a distinct, wavy blade), weapons that were traditionally used in both religious ceremonies and warfare throughout the Malay Archipelago.
Good vibes abound at this cosy, 25-seater craft beer house along Haji Lane. Half the fun in drinking is indulging in the company, you are bound to find a drinking buddy or two at this craft brewhouse. The house has a fantastic range of craft beers, with a dozen on tap every night of the week. These range from refreshing IPAs and Pale Ales to exotic smoked beers and stouts—Feel free to ask for a sample before ordering!
Home to many explorative and experimental pieces of artwork, Supermama hosts a collection of objects and apparel designed by emerging artists—both locally and around the world. The store works with various Japanese craft facilities to produce many of their in-house design collections. The establishment’s porcelain and giftware boast designs inspired by various icons of Singaporean heritage and culture, ranging from The Merlion to the orchid (Singapore’s national flower).
Fika—which refers to the Swedish custom of a laidback, midday teatime— is a great name for a café, and this cosy spot certainly delivers on its promise. The menu here includes a range of halal Swedish comfort food and classic dishes, including meatballs with lingonberry jam, pickled herring and herb-crusted salmon. Decadent desserts here include their salted caramel waffle, kladdkaka (Swedish chocolate cake with) and apple crumble pie.
An unassuming restaurant that is popular among Murtabak fanatics (an oversized omelette prata filled with egg, garlic, onion, spices, and a minced meat of your choice), rumour has it that even regional royalty has eaten at Zam Zam. Be spoilt for your choice of meats when you dine here, with offerings such as beef, chicken, mutton and even venison. This family-run business also specializes in briyani (an Indian spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables).
Enter an old-school perfume establishment for carefully blended scents to add to your collection. Possibly Singapore’s most well-known perfumery, Jamal Kazura Aromatics will customise a signature scent for you–that’s if you haven’t already fallen for their readymade options. Be spoilt for choice at this quarter-century family-run business, where glass shelves are lined with jars of fragrant oils from all over the world.
A long-standing shop that stocks a bit of everything from cotton, lace, satin and more, Molkan Fabrics has much to offer. Go down the colorful aisles and be inspired to customise your clothes and bridal gowns. If you want to take home a traditional ethnic outfit, why not get one made by a seamstress here? Create a traditional Malay attire like the songket suits made from silk or cotton fabric, or baju kurung, a traditional two-piece Malay costume, that only requires tailoring to your size.