Katong Joo Chiat: the Best Sights, Shopping, and Food Spots

Katong-Joo Chiat is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Singapore. Traditionally, this historic quarter was home to the Peranakans, a group of ethnic Chinese who were some of the first to settle southeast Asia and inter-marry with the local Malays. Over time, their blended traditions created its own one-of-a-kind culture, with a rich heritage that is unique to Singapore.  

Today, you’ll find Katong-Joo Chiat alive with hip cafes and eclectic boutiques, sprinkled amongst traditional Peranakan architecture and history. While you could easily spend a full day here, aim to treat yourself to at least 1-2 hours in this spirited neighborhood.

Here, we detail the best things to see and do in colorful Katong-Joo Chiat.

Jump to:

• Architecture and Street Art
• Peranakan History
• Shopping in Katong Joo Chiat
• Katong Joo Chiat Food and Drink

Architecture and Street Art

Peranakan Houses

Peranakan architecture blends elements from China, Malay, Penang, Malacca, Singapore, and Indonesia. The result is a whirlwind of bright colors and ornamental details. Nowhere is this unique architectural style on display better than the famed Peranakan houses, which are also one of the city’s most famous images.

Often called the “prettiest street in Singapore”, these traditional row homes sit proudly in an array of pastels. Only a brief detour off the main drag, snapping the iconic photo is considered a must-do while in the area. Directions.

Street Art

For Instagram-worthy street art, head to East Coast Road and Joo Chiat Road. Here you’ll find elaborate, colorful murals on many of the buildings that line these main thoroughfares.

A few of the more famous (and fun) installations are all along the same block. Start at the cheerfully yellow-painted MedleyAlley (directions), before heading into the alley that parallels the stores along E. Coast Road. Tucked away here are the “dancing Peranakans” (behind Rumah Bebe, directions), and the “dumpling girl” (behind Kim Choo Kueh Chang, directions).

Temples

For another look at local architectural styles, swing by Sri Senpaga Vinayagar temple. It’s the second oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, and has been designated a historic site by the National Heritage Board. From the street, you can admire the tall, steeped roof, adorned with intricate clay statues of deities and other figures. Or, enjoy ducking inside for an up-close look at traditional Hindu designs, which are awash with color. Directions.

Peranakan History

For a people who are extremely (and deservedly) proud of their culture, it’s no surprise that there are multiple heritage museums within the small footprint of Katong Joo Chiat.

Explore any of the following, for a deeper dive into the vibrant history of the Peranakan people.

The Intan, founded and run by a local citizen passionate about sharing his heritage, includes a massive collection of cultural artifacts acquired over the years. The private home now operates as a full museum, and touring it is a truly unique experience. Appointments required. Directions.

Just down the road is the Katong Antique House. Originally a 100-year-old shophouse, the museum serves as an homage to the Peranakan way of life. The home displays beautifully designed antique furniture, traditional clothing, housewares, and other heirlooms. For a taste of Peranakan culture, regional snacks are included with your entry ticket. Appointments required. Directions.

The Eurasian Heritage Gallery, housed inside the local Community House, offers a peek into the Eurasian culture of Singapore, including the history of the region’s settlements, its hybrid blend of East and West traditions, and some of the most famous members of the community. You can even taste the fusion of cultures at the on-site Quentin’s Eurasian Restaurant. Directions.

For a slightly more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Straits Enclave, a private museum that nurtures a living history of Peranakan culture. Occupying a 1920s home that upholds the authentic style of the era, crossing the threshold feels like a step back in time. Beyond the 1-hour culture and heritage talk, you can also try on ceremonial attire, enjoy a traditional meal, partake in a beading workshop, and more. Snacks and tea are included with all tickets. Directions.

Shopping in Katong Joo Chiat

From the traditional to the trendy, shopaholics will find plenty to keep them busy in Katong-Joo Chiat.

Boutiques

Rumah Bebe is a local icon, as popular for its Instagram-perfect exterior as its robust catalog of Peranakan-themed home goods and gifts. You can shop for traditional ceramics and bead work, as well as edible treats. Directions.

The second location of the beloved quirky boutique, Cat Socrates is the ultimate eclectic gift and home goods store. Products include journals, cards, tote bags, jewelry, decor and the like, but each piece is alternatively whimsical, tongue-in-cheek, or just plain fun. The result is a thoughtfully curated hodgepodge, that somehow melds perfectly. Directions.

Home Goods

For unique home goods, head to either Tiger and Arcadia (directions) or Crane Living (directions).Both boutiques have made a name for themselves with quality tableware, textiles, accent pieces, and other décor, that each have a fun character to them.

Onlewo is another higher-end home goods store, but with a particularly Peranakan aesthetic. Specializing in textiles, including table runners, place mats, napkins, pillows, scarves, and more, all prints come in cheerful, brightly colored Peranakan designs. Directions.

Beauty and Skincare

Oasis Beauty Kitchen is a charming eco-conscious skincare boutique, and crafts all their small-batch products in-house. You can visit their provision shop on Joo Chiat Road and choose from face and skin care to hair products, body treatments, and even all-natural home cleaning products. Directions.

Women’s Clothing

For women’s clothing and accessories, we love The Wyld Shop, which retails flirty dresses, sleek active wear, intimates, and more. You can also pick up funky jewelry and baubles, summery woven handbags, and even home décor. Directions.

Foodstuff

If you’re looking to bring back an edible souvenir, Embrace Chocolate makes a decadent presentation. The small-batch chocolate bars are made from highest-grade cacao, along with organic sugar and zero preservatives or additives. Along with the charming packaging, Embrace makes a great gift for friends and family back home. Directions.

Katong Joo Chiat Food and Drink

As one would expect in Katong-Joo Chiat, the flavors of the quarter are as lively and diverse as the blended culture itself.

Traditional Cuisine

Laksa, a rich coconut broth with noodles and prawns, is one of our favorite dishes to slurp up while in Singapore, and 328 Katong Laksa does the comfort food staple exceptionally well. Prices are reasonable, and service is quick. 328 Katong also counts numerous celebrity chefs as fans — the walls are adorned with photos of everyone from Gordon Ramsay to Anthony Bourdain visiting the humble establishment. Directions.

A similar dish is prawn mee (literally, prawn noodles), and Beach Road Prawn Noodle House remains a favorite among locals here. The no-frills spot offers a few different takes on its noodle bowls, along with sides like spring rolls, fritters, fish cake, and more. Directions.

Another regional favorite of ours is roti prata, a flaky flatbread (often tinged with sweetness), that can be eaten plain or filled, but always with flavorful dipping sauce. You can sample an authentic version at Mr. and Mrs. Moghan Roti Prata, a small stand that dishes up 17 versions of the simple staple. They’re open until just after lunch or whenever the dough runs out, so plan your visit accordingly. Directions.

International Cuisine

Fans of natural wines will adore Drunken Farmer, a trendy wine shop which serves its robust menu of all-natural wines alongside thick doughy pizzas, karaage fried chicken, and the like. Directions.

If you’re willing to splurge a little, Asador serves up authentic Spanish cuisine, with a delectable menu full of traditional tapas and other favorites. Directions.

Lastly, you can finish off with a sweet treat at Birds of Paradise, which dishes out scoops of artisan gelato infused with various botanicals. It’s unlike any ice cream you’ve had, and certainly elevates the concept of a cool treat on a hot day. Directions.

Have more time to explore Singapore? Check out our guides to Chinatown, Kampong Gelam, and how to best spend 3 days in the Lion City.