
There’s a new kid on the River Valley block, and nope, it’s not Tiong or Johor – put your hands up for New Bahru!
Out with the old, in with the new – or new new, in this case. Have you visited New Bahru? It’s a new attraction in the River Valley ‘hood, and we love it. Taking over the former Nan Chiau High School on Kim Yam Road, the new lifestyle development is billed as Singapore’s first creative cluster housing over 50 local and international brands, spanning the gamut from food and retail to wellness and even hospitality. Here’s a lowdown on the building’s new residents.
All around New Bahru are familiar faces: Food friends to look out for
1. Somma

There’s no denying that 2024 is the year of Italian restaurants in Singapore. Of course, one is 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.
Somma, #04-02A, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
2. Clos Deli & Wine House

Hey vinophiles, we’ve found your new go-to spot. Say hello to 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.
Clos Deli & Wine House, #01-18, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
3. 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.
Bar Bon Funk, #02-01, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
4. Kotuwa

Having shifted out of its original home in Wanderlust Hotel, 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’ll be slinging 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.
Kotuwa, #01-03, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
5. 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.
Atipico Room #15, #01-15, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
6. Odem

This bar might just be the very first of its kind. 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. Oh, and don’t miss out on the black garlic tart. We know it sounds wild, but trust us when we say you must give it a try at least once.
Odem, #01-17, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
7. Dearborn

From Everton Park to River Valley, this granola-specialty cafe is definitely going places. Dearborn’s new flagship store features a micro-bakery and a provision shop stocked with breakfast goods. But what we’re excited about is the all-day breakfast cafe, which will surely boast all the granola bowls we know and love.
Dearborn, #03-04, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
8. The Coconut Club

Spotted: local food in the vicinity. Finally! 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 favourites. Psst: we hear there’s a collaboration in the works. We still don’t know what it is, but we’re on the edge of our seats waiting to find out.
The Coconut Club, #01-14, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
9. 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 will boast a woodfire charcoal grill, so diners can expect new smoky signature dishes on top of its usual offerings.
San Shu Gong Chao Yue, #01-01, 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 Mexican joint that consistently sports long queues, which is unsurprising, seeing as foodies constantly rave about its food. We’re expecting the same for this branch.
Huevos, #01-16, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
11. One Prawn & Co
True Singaporean foodies will recognise this name. Unlike its Macpherson predecessor, this outlet will boast a new concept: a contemporary take on Asian seafood. A birdie told us there are aged specialities and wood-fire grilling. Will the prawn noodles be making an appearance, though? We’re not gonna spoil it for you – drop by to find out.
One Prawn & Co, #01-10, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
12. Artichoke

Finally, after months of searching, 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. Wonder what’ll be stocked in the mart… We can’t wait to get our fill of hummus, Yemeni beef stew, and Mediterranean sweet treats at its new digs.
Artichoke, #01-02, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
13. One Fattened Calf Burgers

“One of the best burgers in Singapore!” Our group editor endorses this eatery, so you can bet this is one food joint we ran (not walk) towards when New Bahru rolled out its red carpet. 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.
One Fattened Calf Burgers, #01-11, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
14. PPP Coffee

Every establishment needs at least one coffee joint. In New Bahru, this specialty coffee roaster has taken up that spot. The local brand will introduce a new concept that includes an omakase experience. With coffee? Hmm, interesting. Visitors can also look forward to an all-day dining menu featuring pastries curated by Sandra Lee, a well-known figure in the local patisserie scene.
PPP Coffee, #01-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
All around New Bahru are familiar faces: Retail shops to get excited about
15. 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.
Studio Yono, #03-01, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
16. 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.
Omno, #02-05, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
17. 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.
LVT by Lisa Von Tang, #02-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
18. 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.
Morning, #01-13, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
19. 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 at Crafune will help you turn the leather into items like watch straps, keychains, and card sleeves.
Crafune, #02-11, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
20. 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.
Curious Creatures, #02-12, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
21. 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.
Soilboy, #02-07, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
22. 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.
Woods in the Books, #03-06, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
23. 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.
Rye, #03-07, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
24. 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!
Sea Apple, #02-09, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
25. 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!
Sojao, #03-05, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
All around New Bahru are familiar faces: Fun experiences to keep you busy
26. Off Duty Pilates

Who says New Bahru is only about food and shopping? You’re invited to 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.
Off Duty Pilates, #04-18, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
27. 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 interested folks can finesse their own blooms – made of paper, of course.
PeiPer, #03-08, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
28. 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.
Hideaway, #05-07/08, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
29. 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.
Kiztopia Prestige, #04-01, New Bahru, 58 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239359
How to get to New Bahru

You can take the Downtown Line to Fort Canning or the Thomson-East Coast Line to Great World. From there, it’s almost a 20-minute walk to New Bahru. If you plan to drive or ride, there are outdoor parking lots for your vehicles (140 for cars and six for motorcycles). Taking a private hire? Drop-off and pick-up points are at Big Block and Factory.
What are you waiting for? Drop whatever you’re doing and visit New Bahru – stat!