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A Guide to East Coast Road That’ll Give You an Unforgettable Taste of Singapore’s Vibrant Past and Culture
As much as I love the hustle and bustle of Singapore, I do get tired of seeing monochromatic commercial buildings from time to time. When this happens, I sneak away to East Coast Road to bring back some color into my life.
Every time I go there, I feel like Dorothy stepping into Oz. This stretch, full of quirky street art and vibrant architecture, feels like a dive into a whole new technicolor world.
But don’t be mistaken, East Coast Road is more than just a visual feast. You can also indulge in traditional flavors and international classics from the mouth-watering diners lining the street.
So if you’re ready to experience a whole new side of Singaporean culture, this guide will take you through the best bites and the unmissable historical gems within East Coast Road.
Where is East Coast Road?
East Coast Road can be found in Marine Parade, Singapore. It spans from the intersection of Mountbatten Road and Tanjong Katong Road up until the bend at Bedok Road.
How to Get to East Coast Road
Via MRT: Take the MRT and hop off any of these stations: Eunos Station (EW7), Paya Lebar Station (EW8/CC9), or the newly opened Marine Terrace Station (TE27). All of these have exits that are around a 10-minute walking distance from East Coast Road.
Via Bus: Plenty of bus lines stop in the vicinity of East Coast Road. Look for these transport lines and take them to get there: 2, 10, 12, 13, 15, 21, 24, 30, 31 134, 135, 150, 154.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Find a taxi or use your preferred ride-sharing app (like Gojek or Grab). Let your driver know about your specific destination within East Coast Road and they’ll take you there directly.
Via Private Car: You can reach East Coast Road by setting your GPS to a specific destination. Once you arrive, you can choose from several parking lots in the area.
What to Do on East Coast Road
Take pictures with the Joo Chiat Shophouses
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For avid internet dwellers, a snap of the Joo Chiat Shophouses would be the perfect addition to any well-curated Instagram feed. It’s an absolute must to go here with a pastel-hued outfit so you can fit right in with the scenic architecture.
These colorful buildings are even more impressive when seen up close. You can see how well-preserved they are, considering they’ve been there since the 1920s.
All the details that can be seen, from the vibrant paint to the intricate architecture, originate from Peranakan culture. They embody the blend of Chinese, European, and Malay influences that are still present in Singapore to this day.
Once you arrive there, do remember to be mindful. These shophouses still serve as homes and the kind residents would greatly appreciate it if visitors can maintain orderliness in the area.
Learn the traditional art of beading at Straits Enclave
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Are you someone who prefers diving headfirst into new cultures? Well, then Straits Enclave has a beading activity that’ll let you experience what it’s like to craft like a Peranakan.
In this 4-hour workshop, you’ll have a guide who’ll go in-depth about the culture while you follow traditional bead patterns. All of this happens in a cozy museum full of Peranakan wares.
The cherry on top is that you’ll have the opportunity to get dressed in a full Peranakan outfit, including a Kebaya and beaded shoes. In a sense, you get to play a part in keeping this charming culture alive.
Just take note that these workshops only happen once a month so it’s best to plan ahead and book online. If you’re interested, they also offer advanced courses and other crafting workshops.
Sample some Peranakan tea at The Intan
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With East Coast Road being known for food, The Intan (the intan singapore) is one of the few places where you can find authentic Peranakan flavors. This house-turned-museum offers an educational tea experience complete with traditional snacks.
Owner Alvin Yapp hosts a 60-minute tour where he takes guests through the residence and its antiques. The tour ends with a tea session using traditional Peranakan crockery.
You’ll get a chance to taste genuine Nyonya Kueh and Kueh Dada. It’s even more endearing knowing that most of these are prepared at home by Alvin’s mother.
If you’re lucky, you may even get to hear some lovely piano playing from the gracious host and his sister.
Where to Eat near East Coast Road
Baba Chews
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Address: 86 East Coast Road, Katong Square
Phone: +65 6723 2025
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Inspired by its location, Baba Chews seamlessly connects traditional Singaporean artistry with modern tastes. While its interior is decorated with Peranakan elements, it serves a fusion of Asian and Western classics.
They have a diverse menu but the highlights would definitely be their signature fish dishes. The Grilled Assam Halibut Risotto and the Black Pepper Crayfish Hor Fun are both cooked to perfection.
The restaurant itself is also very inclusive. Apart from having a pet-friendly area, they have plenty of options that cater to an array of dietary preferences.
Mr & Mrs Moghan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata
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Address: 300 Joo Chiat Road
Phone: +65 9794 3124
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM
- Wednesday – Closed
Mr & Mrs Moghan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata doesn’t disappoint. That’s why locals and tourists flock to this small establishment for some unforgettable Indian food.
Take it from us, their freshly made Pratas are the perfect level of crispy without ever feeling oily. We highly recommend the Plaster Prata paired with some Mutton Murtabak.
Before you get a life-changing taste of this meal, you should expect a queue. In fact, try to arrive early because they do end up selling out of their Pratas from time to time.
Where to Stay near East Coast Road
Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong
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Address: 86 East Coast Road
Phone: +65 6723 7001
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong doesn’t hold back from being confidently Peranakan-inspired. What once was a Joo Chiat police station now provides warm beds for culturally curious guests.
Their decor is full of character, reflecting the essence of the neighborhood. The suites all have vibrant splashes of color, as well as artwork depicting what the Peranakan area once looked like.
If you want to elevate your stay there, you can go for their Peranakan dress-up experience which comes with an exquisite breakfast for 2 at Baba Chews. It’s a great way to fully immerse yourself in a special part of Singaporean history.
Venue Hotel
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Address: 305 Joo Chiat Road
Phone: +65 6346 3131
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Venue Hotel is the perfect lodging for travelers, most especially first-time visitors to Singapore. But that shouldn’t discourage locals from booking here. Their strategic location makes them the ideal place for a staycation.
As a restored traditional shophouse, they’re only a stone’s throw away from the area’s most sumptuous dining establishments. Their close proximity to transport stations also makes the hotel easily accessible.
Your stay will even be made more enjoyable by the very welcoming and attentive staff. They can help you out with any requests, such as extra pillows and towels, and they’ll even provide some food recommendations if you ask.
