Categories > Guides and Tips
An Inside Look at Ang Mo Kio That’ll Show You How Locals Live and Eat
When I first got a job in Ang Mo Kio, it was a little tough being away from the usual crowd, but the community made it a lot easier to adjust.
Instantly, my colleagues were already inviting me out to eat, and I was amazed by just how many restaurants there were packed into the neighbourhood.
As I started exploring on my own, I discovered so much more than just food. There’s a mix of interesting architecture, historical landmarks, and little corners of nature that make the area feel surprisingly vibrant.
I loved walking around, taking it all in, and over time, I really came to appreciate what makes Ang Mo Kio special.
I’ve documented my favourite spots here—from food and cafes to parks, cultural landmarks, and local shops—so you can get the full experience of this lively neighbourhood.
Where is Ang Mo Kio?
Ang Mo Kio is in the north-eastern part of Singapore. It is bounded by Yio Chu Kang Road to the north, the Central Expressway to the east, Marymount Road to the south, and Upper Thomson Road to the west.
How to Get to Ang Mo Kio
By Bus: Take buses such as 22, 24, 25, 73, 86, 130, 133, 135, 136, 138, 166, 169, 261, 262, 265, or 269 and alight at Ang Mo Kio Bus Interchange, which is connected directly to Ang Mo Kio MRT Station via AMK Hub.
Other bus stops are also located along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 and Avenue 8.
By MRT: Ride the MRT North–South Line and alight at Ang Mo Kio Station (NS16). Use Exit A for Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Exit B for Avenue 8 and the taxi stand, or Exit C for AMK Hub and the Bus Interchange.
By Taxi: Book a taxi or Grab and set “Ang Mo Kio MRT Station” as your destination. Drop-off points are available at Exit A along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 and Exit B along Avenue 8.
By Private Car: Set your GPS to “2450 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8.” Parking is available at AMK Hub, which connects directly to the MRT station.
What to Do and See in Ang Mo Kio
Take a walk through time at nearby historical and cultural landmarks
Media Credit: @_dearcarla
While walking around, I was genuinely surprised by how much there was to see if you just took the time to explore. One of the first spots that caught my attention was the Dragon Playground, with its colourful mosaic tiles and sinuous dragon shape.
It’s apparently one of the last remaining dragon playgrounds in Singapore and a symbol of 1970s playground design.
On another day, I stumbled upon the Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club, which is the largest bird-singing and display arena in Singapore.
I happened to catch one of their weekend bird-singing competitions, and it was fascinating to see how much care and effort the owners give to their birds.
Another historical stop worth visiting is the Gao Lin Gong Temple, also known as the Temple of the Lords. It remains very popular, with people coming in and out to pray, light incense, or just admire the traditional architecture.
Breathe easy and relax while exploring local parks and greenery
Media Credit: @jobert_dizon
If you’re looking for a quieter spot, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is the place to go.
As one of the largest urban parks in Singapore, it offers a meandering river, dog runs, and a Therapeutic Garden. I personally love just lazing around here and people-watching.
Just a short stroll away, you can swing by Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West, which is also home to the Kebun Baru Birdsinging Club.
Even if you’re not there for the bird competitions, the open greenery and peaceful paths make it a perfect follow-up stop to Bishan Park. You get a different kind of retreat here, surrounded by birdsong and well-kept landscapes.
For venturing more into nature, you’ll find that Thomson Nature Park is a great pick! The trails wind through forested areas and remnants of the old Hainan Village, all while serving as a conservation site for the Raffles’ Banded Langur.
Spot colourful murals and street art tucked around the neighbourhood
Media Credit: @yipyewchong
Situated around Teck Ghee Court Market and Kebun Baru Market, you can’t miss the murals by Yip Yew Chong that bring old Ang Mo Kio to life.
I found the art so beautifully detailed, showing scenes of daily life in the neighbourhood decades ago—from kids playing in the streets to hawkers at busy markets.
They also make for great photo opportunities while giving a nostalgic glimpse into how Ang Mo Kio used to be.
Where to Eat and Drink in Ang Mo Kio
Swee Choon Express
Media Credit: @toastymianbao
Address: 53 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, #01-42 AMK Hub
Phone: +65 6969 1467
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Website: https://www.sweechoon.com/
This was probably where I bought dinner the first time. This spot is renowned for their handmade Hong Kong-style and Shanghai-style dim sum, so I couldn’t help but try it.
I had their Mee Suah Kueh, a Swee Choon signature! The texture was so crunchy but soft inside, since it was infused with meat bits. I don’t expect any less from a deep-fried vermicelli cake.
I was also recommended the Steamed Salted Egg Yolk Bun. The buns were fluffy, and the molten salted egg yolk filling was really rich and indulgent. I ended up ordering this one more than once because it was just that good!
Banh Mi Saigon
Media Credit: @banhmisaigon505
Address: 505 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8, #01-2668
Email: [email protected]
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours: Daily – 9 AM to 9 PM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Banhmisaigon505angmokio/
Banh Mi Saigon is a takeaway-only kiosk with a bright orange sign and red lanterns—super easy to spot.
They’re run by Vietnamese owners serving up classic, authentic eats! I don’t usually have Vietnamese food, so it was definitely a new experience for me.
I tried the Special Great Banh Mi Thit—this signature sandwich comes with three different house-made cold-cut hams, creamy liver pate, and tangy pickled vegetables. I asked for a touch of chilli, and I did not regret it one bit.
Some of my co-workers got the Banh Mi Pha Lau Heo, which is basically mixed pork innards with braised pork ear, tail, and other offals marinated in soy sauce, coconut water, and—believe it or not—caramel. You could hear the crunch with every bite!
No Horse Run Cafe
Media Credit: @nohorserunsg
Address: Blk 202 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, #01-1682
Phone: +65 9390 7119
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BcoUoaxu8/
Tucked under an HDB, No Horse Run Cafe is a retro-style brunch spot that feels like stepping into an 80s diner, complete with nostalgic music and decor. They serve all-day breakfast and Western-style dishes at really budget-friendly prices.
Friends have told me their Fried Chicken with Waffle is pretty tasty. It comes with a hefty piece of fried chicken perched atop a sweet buttermilk waffle, finished with a sunny-side-up egg. It’s got a great sweet and savoury balance to it.
You can’t go wrong with the Eggs Benedict either. It’s a classic done well, with perfectly poached eggs, ham, and soft English muffins.
I really appreciated the creamy hollandaise and bacon toppings, while the fresh salad on the side made for a nice palate cleanser.
Where to Shop in Ang Mo Kio
Elsie Departmental Store
Media Credit: @launshae
Address: 709 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8, #01-2607
Phone: +65 6451 5519
Pricing: $ – $$
Operating Hours: Daily – 10:30 AM to 7:15 PM
I’ve always been into trying different crafting hobbies—crocheting, sewing, embroidery, felting, you name it! Naturally, I needed a place to get materials for all the projects that help me unwind. That’s when I spotted Elsie Departmental Shop.
Stepping inside felt like entering a wonderland filled with yarn, needles, felt, and threads. They have almost everything you could possibly need for your creative projects, and more.
I was a little worried about filling my basket since I hadn’t received my salary yet, but then I noticed the prices were really reasonable. This place is a total goldmine for crafters like me—I absolutely love it here!
AMK Hub
Media Credit: @yennybow
Address: 53 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3
Phone: +65 6753 9000
Pricing: $ – $$$
Operating Hours: Daily – 10 AM to 10 PM
Website: https://www.amkhub.com.sg/
Like most neighbourhoods in Singapore, Ang Mo Kio has its go-to mall, and that’s AMK Hub. It’s the main shopping spot for residents in the North-East.
The mall is designed as a one-stop spot, combining retail, dining, and entertainment all under one roof. With over 200 stores across several levels, you can get just about everything you need for daily life.
Shopping options range from fashion brands like Uniqlo and Cotton On to necessities at FairPrice Xtra, the anchor supermarket that spans multiple floors.
I also get most of my skincare and makeup at Watsons and The Face Shop, which makes things super convenient.
It’s not just for shopping—families flock here for the Golden Village Cinema, the food court, and casual dining spots. There’s also a cluster of enrichment centres for kids, plus service shops like salons, banks, and more.
Where to Stay Near Ang Mo Kio
Village Residence Hougang
Media Credit: @rave_photgraphy_
Address: 1 Hougang Street 91
Phone: +65 6019 0400
Pricing: $$
Check-in time: 2 PM
Check-out time: 12 PM
Website: https://www.villagehotels.asia/en/serviced-residences/village-residence-hougang?
There aren’t too many hotels in Ang Mo Kio itself, so a nearby option would be Village Residence Hougang.
It’s conveniently located right above Hougang One Mall and features 78 serviced apartments, making it a great choice for families or anyone staying a bit longer.
The apartments have all the basics you’d need for daily life, including a kitchenette with a fridge, stovetop, and microwave. For relaxing indoors, each unit comes with an LED TV with cable channels, and of course, free Wi-Fi throughout.
If you’re looking to unwind, there’s an outdoor swimming pool perfect for lounging around. I even asked to check out the fitness centre, and there’s a sauna too, so you can stay active or just chill after a day out.
Hotel 81 Kovan
Media Credit: @hotel81sg
Address: 768 Upper Serangoon Road
Phone: +65 6286 8181
Pricing: $
Check-in time: 3 PM
Check-out time: 11 AM
Website: https://www.wwhotels.com/hotel-81/kovan/?
If you’re looking for accommodations that won’t drain your wallet, I’d recommend Hotel 81 Kovan—it’s a bright blue building that’s hard to miss.
The units have air-conditioning, a flat-screen cable TV, and free toiletries. If you want to upgrade, some rooms even come with a dining area, washing machine, and kitchen facilities like a fridge and dishwasher—great if you’re staying a bit longer.
Other perks include daily housekeeping, a 24-hour front desk, and free on-site parking, though I’ve heard the parking can fill up quickly. All things considered, it’s a pleasant and practical stay, especially for the price.
