By Stephanie Kolentsis
Singapore LivingWith the Thompson East Coat Line open, it’s now easier than ever to explore the East Coast. As a resident Eastie for the past five years, I have a few favourite spots that I return to again and again. There’s such a pleasure in wandering aimlessly and exploring your own city as if you were a tourist. Most of the places below I’ve discovered that way. Whether it’s your first time visiting Joo Chiat, or the fiftieth, I’m confident you’ll find a couple of new places to check out on the list below. Happy wandering!
Papi’s Tacos
With three locations across Singapore, Papi’s Tacos might not be hidden. But, it is a gem and it’s absolutely worth your time, especially if you’re there 12-7 pm when they have their happy hour promotion. Margaritas are just $10 and super tasty. If you arrive after happy hour, consider splurging on the mezcal margaritas, they’re even better. I’m getting hungry just thinking about their tacos, they’re that good. Definitely get seats on the sidewalk patio if you like people-watching.
Papi's Tacos, 450 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427663
The WYLD Shop
There are a few things I’ve found a shortage of in Singapore. One of them is friendly sales associates and the other one is bathing suits that fit me well. WYLD shop has both. I love popping in when I’m wandering along Joo Chiat because the shop owner is so welcoming. As a bonus, they carry lots of flowy dresses if you need something light and airy to survive the Singapore heat.Â
The WYLD Shop, 412 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427637
The Cheese Shop
The only Christmas my husband and I spent in Singapore we decided to have a picnic with cheese, preserves, and pickles from The Cheese Shop. Unfortunately, my husband mistook my bag of goodies for garbage and (I still can’t believe it) threw them down the garbage chute. I immediately went out and repurchased everything. That’s how much I love this shop...and its cheese.
The Cheese Shop, 267 Joo Chiat Rd, #01-01, Singapore 427521
Cat Socrates
Maybe I come here to see Socrates, who is a cat. Maybe I come to buy Singapore-themed souvenirs. I’ll leave that up to you to guess. But honestly, this is a great shop if you have to buy something Singapore-related for your family back home or you need a gift for a friend who is leaving Singapore. Last year a friend brought mugs from here, with Singapore shophouses painted on them, to a Secret Santa party and they were a big hit with everyone.
Cat Socrates, 448 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427661
La Tienda
I find myself stopping by La Tienda whenever I have an event coming up. If I’m hosting a dinner party I pop in there to look for things to add to my table (think: serving knives, linen napkins, glassware). If I have a special day out planned, like a polo tournament, I’ll go there to hunt for a light cotton dress or skirt. Everything is immaculately curated from a selection of small, independent designers, and very stylish.
Koon Seng Road Shophouses
If you’re into architecture or photography then you should check out the Koon Seng Road colourful shophouses. I always bring out-of-town guests here too. The houses make the perfect backdrop for travel photos. To get there, walk one block East of Joo Chiat. You’ll know you’ve found it when you see three or four Instgram-ready travellers taking pictures of each other.Â
Koon Seng Road, Singapore 138685
Common Man Coffee Roasters
So, this is a perfectly nice coffee shop. But, come for the wine. The wine supplier for Common Man is Drunken Farmer, an importer and online retailer that specialises in natural wines. If you haven't tried natural wine before, it's earthy, often cloudy, and sometimes a bit sour. If you're new to natural wines this is a great place to try some since they offer a wide selection by the glass. That way, you aren't stuck paying for a whole bottle if you don't love it.
Common Man Coffee Roasters, 185 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427456
East Coast Comedy Standup
Every Friday and Saturday night a group of local and foreign comedians will have you bursting out into laughter. Each comedian has several minutes on stage to try out new material before they're coaxed off and another comedian takes their place. The jokes feel fresh and new, as many comedians use it as a chance to test out new material. It's a great night out with friends in a small and intimate space. You can buy tickets on Eventbrite or directly through East Coast Comedy.
East Coast Comedy, 432 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427647
Street Art Circuit
You don't need to step into a gallery to see some of Singapore's best contemporary art. Street artists have made neighbourhoods like Joo Chiat come to life with bright, colourful murals that reflect the diversity of the neighbourhood. I recommend checking out a map of the Katong Joo Chiat Art Circuit designed by The Admin which will guide you from East Coast Road up to Joo Chiat Terrace, passing by several murals along the way.
 | ​Stephanie Kolentsis is a learning designer with over 13 years of experience working as an educator across Asia. She’s also an explorer who loves to share her adventures with the AWA community. You can check out her website at www.sklearningdesign.com |
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