Have you visited New Bahru? Save our comprehensive guide to Singapore's coolest new hangout!
The quiet River Valley ‘hood turned into a buzzy destination after New Bahru opened its doors – and we love it! Taking over the former Nan Chiau High School on Kim Yam Road, this new attraction is billed as Singapore’s first creative cluster. It houses over 50 local and international brands, spanning the gamut from food and retail to wellness and even hospitality. Here’s a lowdown on this top spot’s residents.
What to eat at New Bahru: Food spots to dine at
1. Somma
Italian restaurants continue to flourish in Singapore, including one in New Bahru courtesy of Chef Mirko Febbrile, the brains behind Fico at East Coast Park. Somma is the sum of a 36-seater fine dining restaurant, a cocktail and pasta bar, a cooking research lab, and a school where interested participants can learn about wines, pastries, and more. Like his first concept, diners can look forward to a six-course tasting menu focusing on sustainability at this new spot.
Must-try items: Seasonal menu
How much: Course sets from $168++; bar bites from $6; cocktails from $20
Opening hours: Varies by day
Somma, #04-02, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
2. Kotuwa
Having shifted out of its original home, Kotuwa now prominently takes a spot within New Bahru. This casual resto introduces you to Sri Lankan cuisine, paying homage to chef-owner Rishi Naleendra’s heritage. Plus, it now boasts a full-fledged bar that slings out cocktails alongside a brand spanking new bar snacks menu! We recommend getting the incredibly well-balanced Souvenir cocktail to go along with spicy calamari and mutton rolls.
Must-try items: Lamb shank in Sri Lankan red curry; dallo baduma; polos kottu; Islander’s Gamble
How much: Set menu at $155++ per pax; food from $8; cocktails from $25
Opening hours: Varies by day
Kotuwa, #01-03, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
3. Atipico Room #15
Atipico is known for its freshly baked pastries and bread dished out from its humble storefront at West Coast Drive. Sweet treats are meticulously prepared and decorated, and taste just as good as they look. The New Bahru outpost promises both a robust brunch menu before transforming into a place for dinner and conversation at night.
Must-try items: Smoked confit salmon; French Kiss; Gateau St Honore; artisan bread
How much: From $7
Opening hours: Sundays and Tuesdays to Thursdays, 9am to 6pm and Fridays to Saturdays, 9am to 10pm
Atipico Room #15, #01-15, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
4. One Prawn & Co
True blue foodies will recognise this name. Unlike its Macpherson predecessor (which has undergone a name change), this outlet boasts a new concept: a contemporary take on Asian seafood. Diners can savour aged specialities and wood-fired grilled dishes. Will the prawn noodles be making an appearance, though? We’re not gonna spoil it for you – drop by to find out.
Must-try items: Beef bulgogi and bafun uni; hamachi crudo, kimchi, puffed rice; smoked ice cream, kaya, coffee
How much: Lunch from $6; dinner from $10; cocktails from $19
Opening hours: Varies by day
One Prawn & Co, #01-10, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
5. Le Clos
Hey vinophiles, we’ve found your new go-to spot. Say hello to Le Clos, which centres around a cellar carrying over 800 labels from organic vineyards. What pairs well with wine? French food, of course. Enjoy a glass or two before taking a seat in the main dining room, where you can sink your teeth into charcuterie, croque monsieur, and steak frites.
Must-try items: Homemade mafaldine spanner crab and bisque; hazelnut praline choux
How much: From $12
Opening hours: Varies by day
Le Clos, #01-18, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
6. Bar Bon Funk
Another watering hole in New Bahru? That’s right folks, but we ain’t complaining. This beloved brand’s new venture wants to turn up the funk with classic and seasonal cocktails, all within an immersive setting. Step into a space that effortlessly segues from elegantly moody to retro chic as you sip on tipples inspired by fave brekkie items. Psst: keep your ears (and eyes) peeled for the top range Hi-Fi sound system.
Must-try items: Pickled egg, English mustard and dill pollen; A Glass of Milk; Lean Green Salad
How much: Enquire for prices
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 6pm to 11.30pm and Sundays, 3pm to 9.30pm
Bar Bon Funk, #02-01, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
7. Odem
This dedicated artisanal makgeolli bar aims to show off craft brewers from various regions in Korea. Labels are created in small batches by passionate artisans before being curated by the team and offered to you in a rotating flight. We recommend ordering a couple of dishes to complete the experience. Don’t miss out on the black garlic tart! We know it sounds wild, but trust us when we say you gotta give it a try.
Must-try items: Fig and jujube salad; duck guksu; kalbi sando; hwachae
How much: Food from $8; makkoli from $62
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11.30am to 12am
Odem, #01-17, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
8. Dearborn
From Everton Park to New Bahru, this granola-specialty cafe is definitely going places. Dearborn’s latest flagship store features a micro-bakery and a provision shop stocked with breakfast goods you can get for your home. But what we’re excited about is the all-day breakfast cafe, which will surely boast all the granola bowls we know and love.
Must-try items: Potato and egg; Dearborn breakfast sandwich; advanced granola bowl
How much: From $6
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Mondays, 9am to 3pm
Dearborn, #03-04, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
9. The Coconut Club
This casual restaurant needs no introduction since the entire Singapore knows what it’s all about. The Coconut Club’s third outlet promises to be the most exciting yet, with an expanded menu spotlighting other local faves. Get the kueh sampler or pisang goreng for a sweet end to your meal, or pair your chosen nasi lemak with the mai tai.
Must-try items: Signature nasi lemak with ayam goreng berempah; kueh sampler; coconut cold brew
How much: Food from $6; cocktails from $21
Opening hours: Varies by day
The Coconut Club, #01-14, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
10. Huevos
If you’re looking for something spec-taco-lar, we know just the place. Huevos is a hot tamale Mexican joint that consistently sports long queues, which is unsurprising, seeing as foodies constantly rave about its food. Dig into the quesadillas – be sure to add the cheese blanket for an extra oomph!
Must-try items: Mango swordfish ceviche; birria beef tacos; chorizo pork quesadillas
How much: Food from $11.90; cocktails from $14
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11am to 3pm; 5pm to 10pm
Huevos, #01-16, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
11. Artichoke
In case you’ve been living under a rock: one of our favourite sustainable dining restaurant has found a new home! The popular Middle Eastern eatery is now based in New Bahru, with a new karak chai bar and minimart to boot. Get your fill of hummus, Yemeni beef stew, and Mediterranean sweet treats at its new digs.
Must-try items: Hummus plate; M.E.C. Spicy; cauliflower mujadara; cold milk balaklava
How much: Food from $8; cocktails from $20
Opening hours: Varies by day
Artichoke, #01-02, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
12. One Fattened Calf Burgers
One thing you must know is that these folks are serious about their burgers. Everything’s created from scratch, including preparing the pickles and making the signature sauce. We highly recommend getting the butter burger with cheese fries (or tater tots!), especially if you feel indulgent.
Must-try dishes: OFC cheeseburger; OFC butterburger
How much: Burgers from $16.50; a la carte from $9.50
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11am to 3pm; 5pm to 8pm
One Fattened Calf Burgers, #01-11, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
13. PPP Coffee
Every establishment needs at least one coffee joint. In New Bahru, this specialty coffee roaster has taken up that spot. Visitors can look forward to an all-day dining menu featuring pastries curated by Sandra Lee, a well-known figure in the local patisserie scene.
Must-try dishes: Duck rosti; wagyu beef burger; fried mala wings; banana rum baba
How much: Food from $6.50; coffee from $3.80; cocktails from $20
Opening hours: Varies by day
PPP Coffee, #01-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
14. San Shu Gong Chao Yue
Fancy a feast of Teochew cuisine? You don’t have to travel all the way to Geylang Road to try it. This one Michelin-starred restaurant specialises in Teochew fare such as cold crabs, chilled steamed fish, pan-fried oyster omelette, and more. Its second outlet in New Bahru boasts a woodfire charcoal grill, so diners can expect new smoky signature dishes on top of its usual offerings.
Must-try dishes: Teochew marinated raw crab; roasted whole suckling pig; double sausage claypot rice
How much: From $5
Opening hours: Varies by day
San Shu Gong Chao Yue, #01-01, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
Where to spend at New Bahru: Retail shops to get excited about
15. Make by GinLee
As you know, we’re all about sustainability, and it brings us immense joy when we came across this retail space. GinLee’s Make studio isn’t just any store – it champions the circular initiative by allowing visitors to design pieces made from unused materials. The result? Your very own pleated bag or turning an old tee into a fashionable carrier.
What you can find: Bags; tops; vases; Make experiences
How much: From $11.80
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 8pm
Make by GinLee, #02-10, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
16. OM
One thing about New Bahru that we totes adore is you can find plenty of local brands here. One fine example is Ong Shunmugam, which opened its third retail store here. Browse the racks for tropic-inspired fashion that adds a touch of colour to your wardrobe. The pieces will keep you cool, in both senses of the word.
What you can find: Dresses; shirts; shorts
How much: Enquire for prices
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 8pm
OM, #01-12, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
17. Beyond The Vines Design House
What else is there to say about this lovingly local label? Beyond The Vines opened its largest store in Singapore to date, occupying an expansive space on New Bahru’s first floor. Swing by to drop your moolah on its ever popular dumpling bag and shop for other items like phone accessories, glass tumblers, and apparel.
What you can find: Bags; men’s, women’s, and kids’ wear; shoes; accessories
How much: From $8
Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays, 11am to 9pm and Saturdays to Sundays, 10am to 9pm
Beyond The Vines Design House, #01-07, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
18. POV by The Missing Piece
While The Missing Piece is all about modern cheongsams, this is the label’s new diffusion line emphasising edgy, urban separates and co-ordinates in various textures and solid colours. Shoppers can look forward to smart casual pieces that can easily take you from the office to the bar.
What you can find: Outerwear; jumpsuits; dresses; sets
How much: From $69
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 8pm
POV by The Missing Piece, #02-04, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
19. Studio Yono
Warning: don’t step into this store. You’ll want to buy everything and refurbish your home! This interior design shop in New Bahru stocks vintage collectables that’ll spruce up your living space and make great conversation starters among your dinner guests. There’s something for everyone here, from colourful tableware to quirky chairs. Too bad there’s no kitchen sink.
What you can find: Furniture; tableware; vases; stationery
How much: From $9
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 7pm
Studio Yono, #03-01, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
20. Omno
If cleanliness is next to godliness, this is your sanctuary. Omno is all about reminding you to take care of your body by using products with scents and sensations that elevate your skin’s well-being and overall mood. Shoppers can find body scrubs, cleansers, shampoos, and even mosquito repellants. Get everything separately or according to its scent.
What you can find: Hand & body cleansers; hair cleaners and conditioners; body lotions and scrubs
How much: From $5
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 7pm
Omno, #02-05, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
21. Morning
Fuelled by a shared desire and fanatical obsession over coffee, founders Leon and Bowen created the Morning Machine, which dispenses coffee with unique capsules created by various coffee brands. Its sleek design means it’ll fit perfectly into a modern home. Thanks to the intricate attention to detail, you can get professionally brewed cuppas at the touch of a button.
What you can find: Coffee machines and capsules; accessories like descalers and cleaner sets
How much: From $8
Opening hours: Varies by day
Morning, #01-13, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
22. Crafune
If you’re looking for a unique date idea, consider dropping by Crafune’s newest flagship location within New Bahru. This homegrown brand is all about getting hands-on with leatherwork, and you’d be surprised at how relaxing the workshops can be. If you have any old leather bags or goods you aren’t using anymore, consider bringing them along for the upcycling workshop. The team will help you turn the leather into items like watch straps, keychains, and card sleeves.
What you can find: Bags; wallets; cardholders; pouches; journals; luggage tags; passport holders
How much: From $21
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 7pm
Crafune, #02-11, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
23. Soilboy
Rejoice, green thumbs! The Singapore-based plant design studio brings its brand of curated plants and handmade ceramics to the New Bahru space. This new experience store will also run hands-on workshops that’ll introduce you to the greener side of life and fascinating plant installations that’ll leave you mesmerised.
What you can find: Potted plants; planters; essentials like potting mix; lifestyle items such as plant platforms
How much: From $19
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 11am to 8pm
Soilboy, #02-07/08, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
24. Woods in the Books
Of course, we’ve not forgotten the book lovers. This independent homegrown bookstore has set up shop in the River Valley enclave. Expect a cosy nook filled with picture books, illustrated publications, and other knick-knacks like activity kits and adorable gifts. It might be difficult to coax the young (and young at heart) from leaving once you’ve stepped foot into the space.
What you can find: Picture books; activity books and kits; greeting cards; art prints; tote bags
How much: From $6
Opening hours: Varies by day
Woods in the Books, #03-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
25. Rye
This goes out to all the ladies in the house. Are you looking to beef up your capsule collection? Rye has you covered. This womenswear label offers timeless staples in neutral hues, ranging from cotton shirts and polos to structured trousers and cocoon dresses. Watch out for this flagship store – its visionary interior concept and curation will draw you in.
What you can find: Dresses; skirts; womens tops and trousers; loungewear; bags
How much: From $30
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 8pm
Rye, #03-07, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
26. Sea Apple
Speaking of little ones, here’s another retail shop families should take note of. Local sustainable brand Sea Apple has launched its second store in the building. What’s new here? Well, there’s an in-store customisation experience where shoppers can co-design their own apparel, merchandise, and personalised gifts. Imagine leaving the store with a one-of-a-kind creation!
What you can find: Kids and adult apparels; baby gifts; toys and home essentials; books
How much: From $9.90
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 7pm
Sea Apple, #02-09, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
27. Curious Creatures
The rock you’re wearing? You can buy it, ‘cos you depend on yourself! Jewellery enthusiasts will be pleased to know that local brand Curious Creatures is branching out with another store within these premises. Browse through its fine and demi-fine jewellery collections, designed in-house and inspired by gemstones, travel, and nature.
What you can find: Necklaces; bracelets; earrings; anklets; rings
How much: From $42
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 8pm
Curious Creatures, #02-12, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
28. LVT by Lisa Von Tang
Fashionistas, you’ll be pleased to know you can get your hands on this lovingly local brand here. Lisa Von Tang has reopened its flagship store, and we couldn’t be more excited. Besides women’s apparel, shoppers can browse the all-season travel wear and athleisure collections. The brand has also debuted its menswear line, so gentlemen, get ready to swipe your cards too.
What you can find: Men’s and women’s wear; high quality basics; resort-ready accessories
How much: From $90
Opening hours: Varies by day
LVT by Lisa Von Tang, #02-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
29. Sojao
How much do we love Sojao? Let us count the ways. First of all, this brand prioritises sustainability in everything it does. Creating certified organic products with the people and planet in mind? Consider us sold. Second, the offerings are beyond amazing. Buttery smooth bed sheets, fluffy towels, super soft loungewear… is there anything to hate? Obviously not!
What you can find: Bedding; home decor; bath essentials; loungewear
How much: From $5
Opening hours: Varies by day
Sojao, #03-05, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
Things to do at New Bahru: Fun experiences to keep you busy
30. Mobilus
Are you ready to enter the fittest day of your life? ‘Cos we are! And this gym can’t wait to welcome you to its fold. Classes are personalised to augment your training needs and develop your fitness. Those who’ve signed up for Hyrox can prepare for the event by undergoing Mobilus’ comprehensive training programmes.
Programmes available: High intensity workouts; aerobic training; bodybuilding; strength training; weightlifting
How much: Membership rates start at $420; single session drop-in at $45
Opening hours: Varies by day
Mobilus, #05-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
31. Chalk N Pencils
If you’ve reached this far and stopped to read this, this is your sign to pick up a new hobby. May we interest you in Chalk N Pencils? It’s an art studio offering adult art classes in various mediums. Don’t worry, you won’t be going at it alone. Expert instructors will be with you at every step of the day, so you can develop your skills and explore your creativity without feeling stressed.
Classes available: Life drawing; watercolour painting; pastel and charcoal; oil and acrylic painting
How much: Enquire for prices
Opening hours: Varies by day
Chalk N Pencils, #04-11, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
32. Barreworks Ballet
Confession: we’ve always admired ballet dancers. Such sophistication! And the posture, stance, and discipline? Chef’s kiss. If you aspire to be as refined as them, start training at this dance studio. It runs classes for the young and young at heart, so you can’t make an excuse to stop yourself from picking up ballet. Private coaching is available if you prefer one-on-one lessons.
Classes available: Classical ballet; contemporary; jazz; pointe foundation; ballet conditioning
How much: Enquire for prices
Opening hours: Varies by day
Barreworks Ballet, #04-16, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
33. CRNK
Hands up if you’re a spin cycle fanatic! And no, obviously we’re not referring to the washing machine setting. Crank it up at this fitness centre, where 50 minutes of your day will be devoted to a cardio workout timed to the beat of the music. You’ll leave the place feeling sweaty and probably even nauseous, but also hyped up and invigorated.
Classes available: Ride with curated playlists; reformer pilates
How much: Trial series from $50; weekly membership at $65; monthly memberships from $200
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am to 10pm
CRNK, #05-03/04, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
34. Loft by The Singing Coach
Alright, how about something less strenuous? Hit up The Singing Coach on the fourth floor for lessons to improve your speech, recover your voice, and discover the joy of singing. You get to master vocal techniques, pick up a musical instrument, and develop your own craft. Who knows, you might become the next Stephanie Sun or Taufik Batisah.
Programmes available: Young voices; vocal performances; voice therapy; artiste development
How much: Enquire for prices
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 10am to 9pm and Saturdays to Sundays, 10am to 5pm (by appointment only)
Loft by The Singing Coach, #04-04, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
35. Off Duty Pilates
You’d be mistaken to think New Bahru is only about food and shopping. Before you stuff your faces, go on and break a sweat at Off Duty’s newest studio. Pilates classes are capped at a maximum of ten participants, so you get proper care and attention from the instructors. If you want to keep it more intimate, arrange a private session and work out with your fitness buddy.
Classes available: Reformer and chair pilates
How much: Starter packages from $90; group packages from $45
Opening hours: Varies by day
Off Duty Pilates, #04-18, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
36. Hideaway
When was the last time you treated yourself to a massage? If you can’t answer that question, this is your sign to book your appointment with Hideaway. Taking up New Bahru’s fifth floor, the sanctuary boasts a bathhouse where you can experience hot saunas and cold plunges, as well as various massage treatments. Excuse us, we’re making our reservations now.
Treatments available: Body and foot massages; 90- and 120-minute packages; infrared sauna and cold plunges
How much: From $40 (members) and $48 (non-members)
Opening hours: Varies by day
Hideaway, #05-07/08, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
37. Surge
Sometimes, it’s okay to ask for help. Plus, who says going to the gym gotta be a solitary activity? Kill two birds with one stone by hitting up Surge. The brand established its flagship gym at New Bahru, allowing you to work out within a vibey destination. The personal trainers are all rarin’ to assist you in your fitness and transformation journey.
Good for: Personal training in strength foundation and weight loss
How much: Enquire for prices
Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays, 6am to 9pm and Saturdays, 7am to 3pm
Surge, #05-05, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
38. PeiPer
Lovers of beauty, we just know you won’t be able to resist popping into PeiPer. The space sports two concepts: a studio where visitors can admire art pieces like giant paper flowers, intricate bouquets, and abstract sculptures, and an arts school. Expect to see classes and workshops where little folks can finesse their own blooms – made of paper, of course.
Classes available: For 48 months to 12 years old
How much: Trial lessons at $90 (two consecutive weekly classes)
Opening hours: Varies by day
PeiPer, #03-08, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
39. Kiztopia Prestige
Here’s the best place to park your little ones if they’ve tagged along for your New Bahru adventure. Those familiar with the brand should know this isn’t the same ‘ol Kiztopia – it’s a premium one. Kiddos will have a ball of a time exploring the space, with soft play concepts that ignite imagination and curiosity. Celebrating a child’s birthday? This is the best venue you can take them to.
Good for: Birthday parties; group events; school visits
How much: Single admission at $32 (one hour) and $48 (two hours), admits one child and one adult
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 7pm
Kiztopia Prestige, #04-01, New Bahru, 58 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239359
How to get to New Bahru
By train: You can take the Downtown Line to Fort Canning or the Thomson-East Coast Line to Great World MRT stations. From there, it’s almost a 20-minute walk to New Bahru.
By car or motorcycle: If you plan to drive or ride, there are outdoor parking lots for your vehicles (140 for cars and six for motorcycles). Parking rates are $2 for the first hour and $1 for every subsequent 30 minutes for cars, and $2 per entry for motorcycles.
By private hire or taxi: Drop-off and pick-up points are at the Big Block.
Make a date with New Bahru and explore this vibey destination – stat!
