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The Pokémon Center At Jewel Is Reopening With A New Look & Exclusive SG-Themed Merchandise

Wei Yin — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 03:06:00 +0000

Pokémon Center Singapore reopening

After temporarily closing in April 2026 for a refresh, Pokémon Center Singapore at Jewel Changi Airport is finally making its much-anticipated comeback on 1st July 2026!

Fans can expect a brand new look and exclusive Singapore-themed merchandise you won’t find anywhere else. So if you’ve been counting down the days to purchasing merch and collecting Pokémon cards again, your pilgrimage plans can officially resume.

When does the store reopen & how can I visit?

The refreshed store and exclusive merch will feature Singapore icons.
Screenshot from: Pokémon Center Singapore

Let’s get the nitty-gritty details out of the way first. The store will officially reopen on 1st July 2026, on a Wednesday. But before you apply for annual leave, take note that entry to the store will be restricted during its first 5 days of reopening, from 1st-5th July 2026.

To manage crowds, admission will be split into 2 methods: Store Visit Application and Same-day Queue Entry Tickets.

Store Visit Application

Screenshot from: Pokémon Center Singapore

If you’d rather secure your spot and avoid camping outside Jewel at ungodly hours, you’ll want to try your luck with the advance Store Visit Application. Each successful applicant can bring 1 guest, meaning a maximum of 2 people per entry.

To apply, head to the official Store Visit Application website, enter your phone number, and select your preferred visit date between 1st and 5th July. You’ll then be asked to choose 3 preferred time slots before confirming your registration.

Applications close on 2nd June 2026, with results announced from 4th June 2026. Successful applicants can enter the store between 10am and 1pm.

Same-day Queue Entry Tickets

Pokémon Center Singapore before it closed temporarily.
Image credit: Pokémon Center SINGAPORE via Google Maps

Didn’t get selected? You can still see whether Lady Luck is on your side by heading down to the store for general admission. Same-day queue tickets will be distributed on-site from 8.30am, while slots last, and entry will be from 1pm onwards.

What to expect at the newly refreshed store?

New look & logo

Image credit: Pokémon Center Singapore

The first thing you’ll notice at the entrance is a Solgaleo display, standing proudly like the guardian of your soon-to-be emptied wallet, while an adorable Pikachu figure flanks it.

Image credit: Pokémon Center Singapore

The refreshed facade also comes with an updated logo, and there’s a reason for that – Solgaleo is now the new symbol of the store.

Pokémon Center Singapore has also revealed that it’s a “Singapore-inspired store”, so keep your eyes peeled for local touches sprinkled throughout the space.

Exclusive merchandise

Image credit: Pokémon Center Singapore

To celebrate its grand reopening, there’ll be a range of Singapore-themed merchandise. The 1st drop will feature 12 exclusive items available on reopening day, including a Pikachu holding a durian, a traditional kopi cup with Pokémon motifs, and keychains decorated with Peranakan tile-inspired designs.

And that’s just the beginning. A 2nd collection is set to launch in August, featuring even more locally inspired collectibles.

Purchase limits may apply – we suggest checking Pokémon Center Singapore’s Instagram page for the latest updates.

Pokémon fans, it’s time to prepare for the reopening

With admission restrictions potentially continuing beyond the first 5 days, depending on crowd conditions, don’t expect to just stroll in on a whim. If anything, the system is designed to manage the inevitable rush of eager fans, so planning ahead isn’t just recommended but essential.

Pokémon Center Singapore

More for Pokémon fans:

Cover image adapted from: Pokémon Center Singapore

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Jurong Rock Caverns Is An Oil Storage Facility 150m Below Ground That Safeguards SG’s Energy Supply Chains

Wei Yin — Fri, 29 May 2026 07:02:15 +0000

Jurong Rock Caverns

With the recent disruptions to the global energy supply chains and increasing petrol prices, we got curious about how our Little Red Dot ensures we don’t get caught off guard when things get shaky worldwide. Turns out, part of the answer lies deep below ground.

Hidden beneath Jurong Island is the Jurong Rock Caverns (JRC), a huge underground network that opened in 2014 and plays an important role in keeping Singapore running. Here are some fun facts about this lesser-known facility that most Singaporeans probably didn’t even know existed.

Singapore’s deepest underground development

Image credit: JTC

The JRC sits 150m underground, carved straight into the bedrock beneath Jurong Island. To put that into perspective, the deepest MRT station in Singapore, Bencoolen MRT, is “only” 43m underground. So these caverns go way, way deeper.

Instead of taking up precious surface land, the facility was built underground to free up 60ha of surface space, or roughly the size of 60 football fields, for other uses.

The result is caverns that can store around 9 million barrels of liquid hydrocarbons – energy-rich liquid compounds derived mainly from crude oil and natural gas. These are used in things we rely on daily, including transportation and heating, which power various industries.

Each cavern gallery is about the height of a 9-storey building

Image credit: JTC

Standing at about 20m wide and 27m tall, each cavern gallery is roughly the height of a 9-storey building. Now picture that, but completely underground, and it’s honestly quite mind-blowing.

In total, there are 5 cavern galleries, and each one can hold a volume of around 160,000m³, or roughly 1 million barrels.

Put all these figures together, and it’s clear why the JRC is considered one of Southeast Asia’s most impressive underground infrastructure feats.

Took 8 years & cost $950 million to build

Image credit: Vopak

And of course, with something this massive in scale and capability, it didn’t come together overnight. The JRC took about 6 years of planning and another 8 years of construction to complete.

All that engineering effort also came with a hefty price tag: $950 million was invested to bring it to life.

A facility that ensures products stay uncontaminated

Image credit: JTC

Most people probably imagine oil just sitting in huge tanks above ground, but that actually comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it concerns space and product quality.

Beyond just freeing up valuable land above ground, the facility is also designed to keep crude oil and compatible products stored separately, reducing the risk of contamination. And this matters more than it sounds. By ensuring each product stays properly isolated, JRC helps maintain quality all the way through to the end users.

Is Jurong Rock Caverns open to the public?

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Nope, JRC isn’t open to the public.

As cool as it looks, it’s a highly specialised industrial facility, so public access isn’t allowed for safety and operational reasons. The closest you’ll get is through photos, documentaries, or the occasional feature like this, which is probably the next best thing to actually stepping inside.

Your peek into Singapore’s deepest underground facility

It’s quite reassuring to know that beneath Jurong Island sits something as massive and carefully engineered as the JRC, quietly doing its job while most of us go about our daily lives above ground. It’s also a good reminder of how Singapore tends to think ahead, planning for long-term resilience even in ways we don’t always see or think about.

More interesting places in Singapore:

Cover image adapted from: JTC, Vopak

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Jurong Fishery Port: A Seafood Wholesale Market That Comes To Life While Most Of Singapore Sleeps

Ong Rui En — Fri, 29 May 2026 01:35:13 +0000

Jurong Fishery Port Tour

If you want to find the freshest, lowest-priced seafood in Singapore, there’s no better place to look than the source itself. Jurong Fishery Port is mainly known for its B2B operations, which is why many people don’t realise it’s open to the public too.

Even if you’ve heard of it before, navigating the busy port can get confusing and overwhelming for first-timers. That’s where the Jurong Fishery Port Tour by Hidden Heritage Tours comes in – it takes you on a guided exploration of its history and inner workings, and shows you exactly how to purchase seafood like a pro.

What is Jurong Fishery Port?

Jurong Fishery Port is the largest wholesale port market and the only fishery port in Singapore after the closure of Senoko Fishery Port. Like how Pasir Panjang Wholesale Centre is Singapore’s wholesale hub for fruits and vegetables, Jurong Fishery Port is the hub for the handling, processing, and distribution of seafood locally.

Almost all freshly caught and imported seafood that comes to Singapore is handled by the port market for distribution to wet markets, supermarkets, and restaurants, so you can expect the freshest seafood at affordable, wholesale prices here.

What is the best time to visit Jurong Fishery Port?

The port operates 24 hours a day, all year round, closing only on Monday mornings between 2am and 6am.

It usually gets the busiest on Fridays and Saturdays, especially during the wee hours between 2am and 5am, when fresh catches are offloaded, auctioned, and distributed to reach neighbourhood wet markets, hawker centres, and supermarkets before they open for the day.

If you’re coming here on your own to buy seafood, the best time to visit would be between 1am and 2am, when you’ll see all the seafood before they get snatched off the shelf, or buckets in this case, in bulk by retailers.

But if you’re not picky about quality and are okay with the leftovers, coming early in the morning after the port’s peak hours would be great too, because that’s when the fish sellers start throwing out discounts to clear their stock.

What to bring & prepare before visiting Jurong Fishery Port?

Happen to have Phua Chu Kang-style rubber boots lying around? Those are the perfect footwear choice when visiting the port.

The shoes we wore on the tour.

Otherwise, just put on a pair of non-slip, covered shoes when you leave your house. Ideally, go for waterproof ones that you don’t mind getting dirty, because the floor at the market is often slippery and wet. According to the dress code notice for port users, open footwear like slippers, sandals, and Crocs is not allowed for safety purposes.

Before you enter the area, you’ll need to register online via SFA’s Visitor Management System or through the kiosks at the security guardhouse. Make sure to have your identification, like your NRIC, work permit, passport, or Singpass app, ready for scanning at the entrance and exit.

If you’re planning to purchase seafood, a cooler bag will come in handy. Do bring along some cash as well, because many of the vendors collect payment the traditional way.

Find out more on the SFA website.

Jurong Fishery Port Tour by Hidden Heritage Tours

For an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at Jurong Fishery Port, consider signing up for the Jurong Fishery Port Tour by Hidden Heritage Tours.

Tickets go for $60/adult and $55/child, and the activity is SG Culture Pass eligible if you still have $100 worth of credits to burn.

The tour starts at 10.45pm and wraps up by 12.45am. Although that might sound late for those who are usually already in bed by then, this is when the market really wakes up – as mentioned, most of the action happens between 2am and 5am, so you’ll be there just in time to catch it.

Tours only run about twice a month, and each session is capped at 35 people, so you’ll want to book early as slots are limited.

What to expect on the tour

Meet your tour guides

The meeting point for the tour is at the canteen inside the port – you’ll need to pass through the security gates first before making your way there. We got a little lost, but here’s the key detail: it’s located to the right of the security gates, on the 1st floor of a building that might initially look like a dormitory or housing block.

At the canteen, we met Stanley, one of the founders of Hidden Heritage, as well as the tour guides-cum-fish experts, Ryan and Yi Xuan – who some of you might recognise from @facepalmfishing on YouTube.

We were also handed audio guides to wear, which made it easier to follow along and hear the tour guides clearly – especially helpful given the size of the group and how busy the area can get.

During the tour, you’ll learn the history of Jurong Fishery Port – like its “fishy” beginnings as a market more than a century ago, which was reportedly burnt down in a fire that some speculated was set to force fish vendors out.

One thing we appreciated about the tour guides was how they prioritised the group’s safety. Since the port is filled with forklifts and heavy vehicles zooming around, one of the guides would often go ahead first to scout out safe spots for us to stand before leading the group over.

Peek into the fish merchants’ office units

The 1st stop on the tour was a look at where fish merchants operate from day to day. What initially looked like a housing block turned out to be the complex housing the fish merchants’ office units, where they handle admin work and take breaks between the early-morning action at the port.

That impression came from how homely the place looked, with fish merchants personalising their units like it was their 2nd home.

Peering in, most of the furniture looked like it belonged in a typical HDB living room.

Keep an eye out for items reminding you that you’re at a fishery port, like rubber boots at the doors and stacks of baskets to store fish, numbered so that fish merchants can identify their own.

Just remember to keep your volume down in this area, as some fish merchants might be napping inside.

You can also climb up 5 flights of stairs at the office building to get a nice lookout view of the whole port.

The Singapore Fish Merchants General Association is also located at the office building. It was set up to settle any internal conflicts between fish merchants, but is now used by the merchants to drink tea and play Chinese chess.

Another thing we noticed while touring the office building was that the car park was mostly filled with vehicles bearing Malaysian plates. The tour guides explained that many of the workers at the port are Malaysians, as selling fish is a dying trade in Singapore.

Check out elements that are a blast from the past

Much of the port looks like it has been preserved in time, with some very old-looking signs and facades. We even stopped by these vintage letterboxes that are still actively used by fish merchants for their mail and official documents. Now, it’s rare to come across letterboxes with this old design from the 70s as they have since been phased out.

If you’re feeling nostalgic, you can even poke at the metal flaps to hear that familiar clink – a repetitive sound many will remember from the days when flyer distributors would slot in mail at record speed.

Then we came across the storefront of Toko Rasek, which also looked like something out of the 20th century. It’s a shop that sells commercial supplies like styrofoam boxes to the fish merchants at the port.

Listen to true crime stories

The tour guides also shared some true crime stories, like a double murder that happened right at the office of Jurong Fishery Port. Hearing the story while standing at the actual site definitely sent chills down our spines, especially knowing that one of the perpetrators is still believed to be at large.

We won’t spoil too much here, but let’s just say you’ll want to hear this one in person on the tour itself.

Visit the shrine that fish merchants pray at

Another tour stop was the shrine that was brought over from Senoko Fishery Port after it closed down. Here, Chinese fishermen pray to Mazu, the sea goddess, for protection before their fishing voyages. Business owners, on the other hand, pray to the Earth God, AKA Tu Di Gong, for business success.

Stop by the ICA gate

No pictures are allowed here, so we didn’t manage to get a shot of the area. Our guides shared that the yellow ICA gate was constructed to enforce stricter border controls after the 9/11 attacks in the US. This gate leads out to a 400m-long wharf for docking, where the vessel crew can unload their catch.

You’ll be stunned by the sheer scale of operations here – each container can hold up to 120kg of seafood, and a mind-boggling amount of cargo containers passes through here daily.

Beyond the sea, much of the port’s seafood arrives via air or land. This includes seafood that has endured a 15-hour truck journey from neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, while premium choices like salmon and cod are flown in.

See an ice-crusher stall owner in action

Ice is a big part of the seafood business, helping to keep the produce fresh. At the port, you’ll see seafood buried in ice and packed into the mouths and stomachs of fish to maintain an even temperature from the inside out.

So it wasn’t surprising that the chilliest place in the port turned out to be the ice-crusher stall, where waves of cold air escape from towering blocks of ice – so huge that they were barely melting in Singapore’s heat and humidity.

You’ll see giant ice shaver machines used to grind the blocks down, alongside ice picks for hooking and dragging the heavy slabs around. The uncle running the stall was very kind to grind a new chunk of ice just for us to have a closer look.

Try bargaining at the wholesale fish market

The crux of the tour was the wholesale fish market where fish merchants sell seafood to retailers, wet market fishmongers, and caterers.

It felt like our day was ending, but for the fish merchants at the market, the day had just started. Over here, you’ll mostly see people weighing seafood, noting the stock, and sorting them into baskets based on species and size.

One of the highlights of the tour for us was walking the galleyway, or the bridge at the roof, used by SFA to have a birds-eye view of the whole market, ensuring that there is no “fishy” business going on. From above, we enjoyed unobstructed views of the market to people-watch and fish-spot.

The tour guides also pointed out and explained the roles of different people at the market. You’ll spot accountants perched on elevated wooden desks recording inventory and sales for each stall.

Interestingly, some fish merchants have even embraced the digital age, hiring people to do live-streaming sales right at their booths.

You might also catch migrant workers having heated bargaining moments with fish sellers, as well as other walk-in customers looking for a steal.

Seafood here is generally 10% to 15% cheaper than at your local market, though you should note that most busy fish merchants here won’t bother cleaning or gutting the fish for you.

With a laser pointer, the tour guides singled out different types of fish and explained how to differentiate those that look similar, so we don’t get scammed at wet markets.

Don’t be shocked that the fish merchants lay their seafood on the ground. Although it may seem unsanitary, your seafood still has to undergo cleaning and descaling before it ends up on your plate – after all, the fish come from the sea, which we can’t say is any cleaner than the floor.

We encountered everything from stingrays to cuttlefish, and even saw a big leopard ray with its head removed – this is a giant stingray you might find in aquariums.

Fishing enthusiasts might also find themselves stunned by the size of some of the fish here. We spotted a huge mackerel and heard that it’s really hard to catch one of such epic proportions in the wild.

The tour guides made the tour even more interesting by dishing out informative fish facts, such as which species tend to have higher mercury levels (not ideal for kids or pregnant women) and how different fishing methods affect quality. For example, trawling, which involves dragging a large net through the water behind boats, often leaves visible marks on the fish.

They also broke down the taste profiles, price ranges, and gave cooking tips for different types of fish, from steaming and grilling over an open fire to serving it up as fresh sashimi.

Later, our group headed down into the middle of the bustling market. Remember to watch your step as the ground can get slippery with puddles of water, and you might get a few splashes of fishy water as vendors wash their buckets and toss their seafood around.

From here, we could even feel the cool air brushing against our legs from all the ice, which made us wonder how the sellers could handle it so casually – sticking their hands in buckets of ice water and squatting there handling ice-cold seafood for so long.

With 130 market lots, we wouldn’t know where to start if we were to buy seafood alone. That’s why it helps having the tour guides around – they’ll recommend stalls that they usually buy from and those with discounts, so you can get the best prices. They’ll also point out vendors who can help with cleaning and cutting the fish, which makes the whole buying process a lot more convenient.

Fuel up at the canteen

The tour ends back at the canteen, where you’ll find stalls like a caifan stall with its trays still full of ingredients – a rare sight at midnight compared to most other places around Singapore. These stalls usually cater to the fish merchants and their staff who work throughout the night.

Here’s a hack we found out from the tour: you can buy fish from the market and pass it to the chef in the canteen to cook for a fee.

We had a pleasant surprise when the tour guides presented the group with some calamari from the port, freshly fried in the canteen.

Free & easy time

Do remember to return the audio guides before you leave. Once the guided portion wraps up, you’ll have a free and easy time to explore the area and make your seafood purchases.

One thing we were a little worried about was getting stranded at the port in the middle of the night, especially since it’s quite an ulu location and late at night. Fortunately, we managed to secure our private hire cars quite fairly quickly at 1am on a Saturday, but it’s worth noting that this may not always be the case.

Explore Jurong Fishery Port

The tour opened our eyes to a completely new side of Singapore, and we would definitely recommend that you check it out too, if you like exploring our country’s hidden heritage or are simply there for the fish. The next available tour date is on 19th June 2026.

One final tip: be prepared for your clothes, bags, and shoes to smell fishy by the end of the night – it’s all part of the authentic experience, and who knows, you might even find yourself becoming a bit of a cat magnet afterwards.

Secure a slot for the Jurong Fishery Port Tour

Price: $55/child | $60/adult
Meeting point: Canteen of Jurong Fishery Port
Upcoming tour dates: 19th June 2026

Jurong Fishery Port

Find more tours in Singapore:

Photography by Hui Wen Chan.

The post Jurong Fishery Port: A Seafood Wholesale Market That Comes To Life While Most Of Singapore Sleeps appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

18 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Spend Your CDC Vouchers On Like Cat Cafes & Gaming Consoles

Cherisse Goldwich — Mon, 25 May 2026 06:00:47 +0000

Where to use CDC Vouchers 2026

If there’s anything Singaporeans can agree on, it’s that free things must take. After all, the only thing better than a good deal is not having to pay a thing at all. In case you’ve not heard, we’re getting a new set of CDC Vouchers ahead of time in June 2026, and each household will be able to claim a total of $500 worth of vouchers.

If you don’t already know, the use of the CDC Vouchers is split 50-50 between hawkers, heartland merchants, and supermarkets. But that doesn’t mean you’re relegated to utilising them just at hawkers and participating supermarkets. Here’s where to use your CDC Vouchers, including things to do, eat, and buy that you might not have known about.

What are CDC vouchers?

In recent news, the government has brought forward the latest tranche: $500 worth of vouchers will now be released in June 2026 instead of January 2027, in response to the rising cost of living due to the conflict in the Middle East. The CDC Vouchers released in June 2026 will be valid until 31 December 2027.

Note that unlike SG60 Vouchers, CDC Vouchers are allocated based on your household’s address, rather than individually. So, each household will receive 1 set of CDC vouchers worth $500 in total in June 2026.

But before you run with the idea that you can use the $500 to get yourself a fresh pair of kicks or some bubble tea, hold up! You can’t use the CDC vouchers just anywhere. After all, this initiative is not just meant to help households, but also to support heartland merchants and hawkers.

How to claim & redeem your vouchers

In case you are unfamiliar, redeeming your vouchers is actually quite a simple affair. For starters, all you have to do is visit the CDC vouchers redemption website on mobile or desktop, log in with your Singpass, and claim your vouchers. Only 1 member of your household will have to do this.

After the first person from a household claims the vouchers, they’ll receive a unique link sent to them via SMS. Afterwards, the rest of the household can start using them by accessing the page on mobile via this link.

Image credit: Community Development Centre

To use the vouchers at a participating merchant, simply select how much you want to redeem in that particular transaction. The vouchers come in denominations of $2, $5, and $10.

After which, a QR code will be generated, and all you have to do is to show this QR code to the merchant, who will scan it and offset the corresponding amount from your purchase. All in all, pretty easy and no-frills!

Where can you use your vouchers?

In total, the $500 is split into 2 categories: $250 for supermarkets and $250 for local heartland merchants like hawker stalls. Here are some places where you can use your CDC vouchers:

Supermarkets

As mentioned, you’ll be able to use up to $250 worth of supermarket CDC vouchers to fund your grocery runs. Plus, you’re not limited to just shopping at major supermarkets either. Apart from well-known chains around Singapore like FairPrice, Prime Supermarket, Sheng Siong, Cold Storage, HAO Mart, and U Stars, you can also use your vouchers at smaller supermarkets found in your neighbourhood.

To be sure that the supermarket you are visiting accepts CDC vouchers, check that it displays the following yellow decal:

Image credit: Community Development Council

Take note that this $250 amount won’t be transferable with the other $250 meant for local merchants, and vice versa.

Visit the CDC website to check out a full list of participating supermarkets.

Eateries

CDC voucher-eligible hawker stalls make up a majority of participating merchants, and you can use them to either offset the cost of your food or to pay it off directly. Similar to supermarkets, participating stalls would have to display the following teal decal, so do check beforehand:

Image credit: Community Development Council

You’ll also find that quite a number of other eateries like restaurants and cafes are also on the CDC website’s list of participating hawkers and heartland merchants, so here are a couple for you to check out.

1. Cafe Wabi Sabi

Japanese cafe with rice bowls & sandos

2 things Singaporeans can never have enough of: Japan and cafe hopping. Which is why Cafe Wabi Sabi is the best place to use your CDC voucher on, as it hits all the marks with their Japanese-themed menu. They’re known for their sandos that are made with housemade shokupan.

Image credit: Eatbook

The fluffy milk bread is what holds classic fillings like tamagoyaki ($10.90), which also has egg salad and mixed greens; and beef steak ($16.90) that comes topped with caramelised onions. The sandwiches are stuffed to the brim, but if you want to fill up further, you can add on fries for $3.50.

Sukiyaki don.
Image credit: Eatbook

If you must have rice, there are also various donburi bowls that are served with miso soup. Popular ones include sukiyaki don ($15.90), which has pork belly and an onsen egg; and salmon mentai don ($22.90) with sashimi salmon and mentaiko sauce.

Cafe Wabi Sabi review: “The bread was lightly toasted and yummy. The torched cheese gave a light tint of smokey flavour. The white coffee was delightful and well-presented. The staff casually checks if you’re done with your mains to serve desserts.Great ambience to get some work done, and there are power points too.” – jiyong lim via Google maps

Cafe Wabi Sabi Singapore

2. Cafe Fufu

Wood-fired pizzas from $15

Image credit: Eatbook

Wood-fired pizza sounds like something you’d get at a fancy Italian restaurant, but they’re readily available at Cafe Fufu, a hole-in-the-wall eatery under an HDB block in Redhill. These pizzas are made from sourdough, which adds a tangy kick to the crust. What you get is crunch on the outside, and a tender chew on the inside, making it one of the best places where pizza-lovers can use their CDC voucher at.

Pizza Salami.
Image credit: Eatbook

The signature is the Pizza Fufu (from $20), which uses a coriander pesto base that is topped with prawns, dried tomatoes, and chilli flakes. If you want something more conventional, there’s the Pizza Salami (from $18), which sees salami slices on a tomato base. The whole pie is drizzled in a savoury and fragrant oregano olive oil.

Cafe Fufu review: “We ordered the salmon pasta and the pizza salami and we both enjoyed both thoroughly. The pasta was not overcooked, and it wasn’t overly creamy. As for the pizza salami, we felt the ingredients were fresh and for a woodfire pizza, the dough was not overcooked & perfectly chewy.” – Michelle Chiu via Google Maps

Cafe FuFu

3. Bailey and Whiskey

Pet-friendly cafe serving all-day brunch

Tucked along Depot Road lies Bailey and Whiskey, make full use of your CDC voucher at this pet-friendly cafe serving all-day brunch. Known for their Whiskey’s French Toast ($16), the safari-themed cafe has all wooden furnishings and plenty of plants to really complete the nature theme. The floor is even carpeted with artificial grass on which the kids can make themselves at home.

Image credit: @ilivetoeat_jpg via Instagram

For those looking to truly embrace their wild side, they have outdoor seating open to all, fur friends included.

Bailey & Whiskey review: “The waffle is fab, but is not on the menu so be sure to ask for it at the counter. The scrambled egg with mushroom toast is another must try! Scrambled perfectly with a generous portion of sautéed mushrooms on a delicious buttery toast.” – S Wun via Google maps

Bailey And Whiskey

4. Little Island Brewing Co

Artisanal brewery with 30 beers on tap

With over 30 craft beers, wines, and spirits on tap, Little Island Brewing Co – a microbrewery in Changi Village – is perfect for those who enjoy their booze. Made in-house using traditional methods, the beers are brewed fresh – from grain to glass.

Image credit: @kevinteosy via Instagram

Available on a rotational basis, signatures include the Stars & Bars, an American IPA, and Naked Lager, which has notes of malt, vanilla, and honey. Prices start at $11 per serving, and vary depending on size. Do note that while Little Island Brewing Co also has outlets at South Beach and Gillman Barracks, only their Changi Village location accepts CDC vouchers.

Little Island Brewing Co. review: “This spot is perfect for catching up with friends over beer and snacks. Their beer selection is extensive and impressive, with the ones we tried living up to expectations.” – Ashok Sankaran via Google Maps

Little Island Brewing Co @ Changi Village

Activities

Where you prefer spending an afternoon with cats or hanging out with your girlfriends at a flower arrangement class, here’s where to use your CDC vouchers for activities.

5. Flowers by Sadha

Bouquet workshops & art jamming

Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend, but if they’re a little too far out-of-budget, you can never go wrong with a bouquet of fresh flowers. Since nothing shows sincerity like a handmade gift, go the extra mile with Flowers By Sadha’s floral arrangement workshops where you can make your own bouquet.

Image credit: Flowers by Sadha

In addition to the workshops and countless colourful pre-made arrangements, the florist also hosts intimate art jamming sessions, where you can paint and draw to your heart’s content. Like their pre-made bouquets (from $25), the classes are affordable; their Floral Arrangement Workshop costs just $40.

Flowers by Sadha review: “I signed up for a floral arrangement workshop with Sadha and my daughters and I thoroughly enjoyed the session! We learned so much about the basics of floral arrangement and he was very patient and helpful towards my kids, who were engaged throughout!” – Wendy Seah via Google Maps

Flowers By Sadha

6. Just Ants

Ant-keeping hobby shop

Nobody wants ants crawling around their desks, but these little critters make great pets once you give them the right tank to reside in. You can find out more about these low-maintenance pets by paying Just Ants in Yishun a visit.

Image credit: @justantsss via Instagram

The hobbyist shop has all the essentials you might need to turn these would-be pests into pets. They’ve got food (from $1), decorations (from $1), and even formicariums (from $19.90) – pre-built ant farms so you can observe your ants through glass without disturbing their ecosystem.

Just Ants review: “Awesome place to learn about ants! The owner is super passionate and informative. Good place to bring the children for a visit.” – Yongzhen J via Google Maps

Just Ants

Stores

If you’re picking up a new hobby or restocking your pantry with snacks, enjoy discounts with your CDC voucher at these shops and clear your wishlists.

7. Fishing Buddy

Fishing supply store in Jurong

In addition to rods, Fishing Buddy stocks a number of reels and lures.
Image adapted from: @fishingbuddy_sg via Instagram

Fishing Buddy, quite simply, sells all the reels, rods, and lures you could possibly need for a successful day out on the water. Taman Jurong might be out of the way for some but you’ll just be minutes away from Jurong Lake, one of the legal fishing spots in Singapore.

Since you’re already out West, take a gander through the neighbourhood. There are plenty of things to do in Jurong, such as a Japanese onsen and Singapore’s oldest dragon kiln to check out.

Fishing Buddy review: “The store is well-stocked, and the staff was very knowledgeable and really helped me out on choosing a few lures for a beginner fisherman.” – Wee Seng Teo via Google Maps

Fishing Buddy Pte Ltd – West Branch

8. Kiddy Palace

Children’s department store in Toa Payoh

If you grew up in the 90s, department store runs were probably a big part of your childhood. Though most of the OGs like Tangs and John Little are now obsolete, Kiddy Palace is a close reminder of what once was.

Image credit: @kiddypalacesg via Instagram

Specialising in children’s and maternity products, the department store chain is a one-stop shop for parents, with everything from toys to toothbrushes in one place. Plus, most of their products are heavily discounted in comparison to retail, a welcome surprise considering how expensive parenting can be.

While the chain has branches all over the island, do note that only the Toa Payoh outlet accepts CDC vouchers.

Kiddy Palace review: “Huge store and well stocked with every imaginable baby and maternity products, plus there’s a good selection to choose from.” – Kenneth Goh via Google Maps

Kiddy Palace

9. Late Morning

Minimalist & understated homeware like cutlery & cups

Image adapted from: @latemorning_official via Instagram

Late Morning is the best place to use your CDC voucher at when you’re looking to deck out your Japandi-inspired home. It’s a quaint lifestyle store in Chinatown which stocks a selection of homeware that give your living spaces a minimalist touch.

From pottery crafted by the masterful Japanese ceramic artists to pieces personally curated by the store’s staff from their travels, their pieces aren’t exactly cheap, but they’re made that much more affordable with the use of CDC Vouchers.

Image credit: @latemorning_official via Instagram

There’s even a quiet tea and coffee corner within the store serving various brews to go with your shopping, and feel free to bring along your furry friends for a second opinion too; the store’s pet-friendly after all.

Late Morning review: “I couldn’t leave empty-handed! The shop is warm and cozy, making it a great place to slowly browse for tableware and other home items.” – CAYLA YAN via Google Maps

Late Morning

10. Gadget Communication Pte Ltd

Best place to use CDC voucher for gamers

Image credit: Muhammad Halil Sani via Google Maps

For gamers and gadget enthusiasts wondering where to use CDC vouchers, Gadget Communication Pte Ltd is a top spot to check out for the latest tech and gizmos. They’re a store that deals in all things electronics located in Tampines, so if you’re an Eastie, you’re in luck. The store stocks the latest smartphones as well as gaming consoles such as the PS5 and even Dyson hair dryers.

Gadget Communication Pte Ltd review: “The service provided by the store was excellent. The staff member was friendly, patient, and very knowledgeable about the different phone models.” – muhammad shaffie via Google Maps

Gadget Communication Pte Ltd

11. Sintec SportsCity Pte Ltd

Sports shop that specialises in all things badminton

Image adapted from: Paoh T via Google Maps

Shuttlers looking to upgrade their gear can head right to Sintec SportsCity Pte Ltd in Bedok. They pretty much stock everything you’d need for a good workout if you’ve managed to book a badminton court in Singapore, from the latest rackets to comfy court shoes that prevent you from getting any nasty injuries.

Apart from loading up on shuttlecocks and racket grips, they also provide racket restringing services should your strings snap during gameplay. The owners are also really friendly, and are more than happy to give their recommendations as to what tension you should string your rackets at and what gear to buy.

Sintec SportsCity Pte Ltd review: “Even though the store may be small, there is still quite a variety of badminton goods. The lady running the store is very nice and friendly, and the prices are reasonable as well.” – Joelle Koh via Google Maps

Sintec Sportscity Pte Ltd

12. OBO Collectibles

Sells trading card game merch

Image credit: OBO Collectibles via Facebook

Pokémon card collectors, you all know how expensive the hobby is getting these days, as purchasing booster packs in this economy will undoubtedly put a sizable dent in your bank balance. Thankfully, OBO Collectibles in Bugis knows the woe of shelling out hundreds to get your chase card, which is why they’re one of the few hobby shops in Singapore that accepts CDC Vouchers.

Image credit: OBO Collectibles via Facebook

From booster boxes to single cards, to even graded slabs, you’ll be able to geek out about them all right here. Plus, they’ve got tables and chairs set up when you’d like to crack open your packs on the spot. OBO Collectibles also hosts occasional trade shows at their shop where you can meet fellow TCG enthusiasts to trade and sell the cards you’ve pulled.

OBO Collectibles review: “Fantastic shop for any Pokémon fan! The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to chat about cards and they give great advice. The selection is amazing – from singles to sealed products – all sold at fair prices. The store is well-organized and feels really welcoming.”- Yong Xiang Seah via Google Maps

OBO Collectibles

13. Basheer Graphics

Wide range of design-related books, including ones by local authors

Image credit: Mokkie Mok via Google Maps

If you’re looking to spruce up your coffee table with artsy reads, there’s probably no better place to shop than Bras Basah Complex’s Basheer Graphics. It’s one of those niche bookstores in Singapore that’s filled with shelves upon shelves of design-related books; art, architecture, photography, fashion, movies, it has it all.

In case you didn’t know, this eclectic bookstore accepts CDC Vouchers for payment, and also stocks a healthy amount of works published by local authors. Head down to show a little love for the country’s often overlooked literary scene.

Basheer Graphics review: “Basheer Graphic Books is truly a hidden gem for design and architecture lovers. I came specifically looking for architecture books, and I was amazed by how extensive and well-curated their collection is. From classics to the latest publications, they have everything I could ask for and more.”- Gayatri Satyatama

Basheer Graphic Books

Where can I use my CDC voucher for services

If you’ve been thinking about getting a haircut lately, now’s the best time to do so. These salons are where you can use your CDC voucher, along with other types of services.

14. “Hair” By Common Studio

Best place to use CDC voucher for organic treatments

“Hair” By Common Studio is known for doing, well, hair. Located in Queenstown, the minimalist salon specialises in organic hair treatments. On top of that, they also use eco-friendly products in all their services because it’s just as important to take good care of the planet as it is your hair.

Image credit: “Hair” By Common Studio

More than just being eco-friendly, their services are wallet-friendly as well – hair treatments start from just $68, while a 25-minute cut will only cost you $25.

“Hair” By Common Studio review: “I’ve been here a few times and I never left disappointed. The stylists here are friendly and meticulous, and even gave me styling tips!” – N. De En via Google Maps

“Hair” by Common Studio (Queenstown)

15. Fur Friends’ Pet Grooming

Specialises in Teddy cuts

We all know that the CDC vouchers can be used by humans – I mean, duh. What many people don’t know is that the vouchers can also be used to pamper man’s best friend; located in the heart of Yishun, Fur Friends’ Pet Grooming & Salon offers grooming services for dogs, cats, and even rabbits.

Image credit: Fur Friends’ Pet Grooming via Facebook

Though they are able to work with all fur-styles, they specialise in teddy cuts, a special technique in which the fur is cut in a rounded manner to create an end look similar to a bear.

Fur Friends’ Pet Grooming review: “I’ve been bringing my dogs here for grooming for years. The prices are reasonable and the service is good.” – Veronica Manivannen via Google Maps

Fur Friends’ Pet Grooming & Salon

16. Beng Watch Service and Repair

Run by an elderly couple

Buried within a sea of much newer establishments in Bendemeer Market is Beng Watch Service and Repair, an old-school watch and clock repair shop. With a quirky, retro interior, stepping into the shop feels like going back in time.

Image credit: Shi Kai via Google Maps

It’s run by a sweet elderly couple, and there are no prices here – in true retro fashion, the services are charged on a case-by-case basis. Still, this doesn’t mean they overcharge customers; in fact, several online reviews state that the couple have, on many occasions, insisted no payment be made at all.

Beng Watch Service and Repair review: “If you ever need to repair or service your watch, this is the place to go! The uncle here is highly experienced with many years of expertise, and is super friendly, takes great care of your watch, and even shares tips on how to maintain it.” – Danielle Berlandier via Google Maps

Beng Watch Service & Repair

17. Brow Art Asia

Popular threading shop in Clementi

They say that the brows are the windows to the face – whoever “they” may be, it’s undeniable that a tidy set of eyebrows can have a dramatic effect on one’s appearance. If your caterpillars are looking sparse, eyebrow embroidery creates the illusion of fuller brows without the need for extensive drawing, spooling, and shaping.

Image adapted from: Brow Art Asia

You can get that at Brow Art Asia. Hidden in Clementi, the shop is especially popular among residents in need of an eyebrow grooming. They’re known for their detailed work and minimal pain during the tattooing process. If your brows are gucci, they also offer eyelash extensions and eyeliner embroidery to hasten your makeup process in the morning.

While the chain has other outlets around the island, do note that only the Clementi outlet accepts CDC vouchers.

Brow Art Asia review: “They have amazing lash therapists – gentle, meticulous, and always deliver beautiful, natural-looking lashes. I get so many compliments after every session.” – Shirley Lim via Google Maps

Brow Art Asia

18. MEATMEN

Butchery with all sorts of meats like wagyu ribeye, venison & sausages

Image credit: Emi Maekawa via Google Maps

Carnivores and gym bros, you’ll be glad to know that you can use your CDC Vouchers to fulfill all your protein needs at MEATMEN. The local butchery has 3 outlets, in Empress Road, Thomson, and Holland Village, and all 3 accept CDC Vouchers as a form of payment.

Image credit: Kelvin Cheong via Google Maps

They’ve got all kinds and cuts of meat to choose from, from good ol’ beef and poultry to venison and fish. When the occasion calls for it, order their Japan A5 Wagyu Ribeye (from $102), or stock up on trays of USA Kurobuta Pork Loin (from $12) to cook up during your hot pot feasts.

Full list of MEATMEN outlets.

MEATMEN review: “My favourite butcher for a decent selection of meats without being too exotic, has both everyday cuts and some prime options too! They also make their own seasoning which has been a great match for our BBQs we have been doing.” – Garett Lee via Google Maps

Where to spend your CDC vouchers

By now, you’re probably familiar with this bi-yearly routine of redeeming CDC vouchers, and with each new tranche, there are new stores that allow for CDC vouchers to be redeemed. From pet grooming to eyebrow threading, you can not only spend your vouchers on yourself, but your pets too. Heck, you can even spend them grooming the hair pets above your eyes.

Find out more about CDC vouchers here

Cover image adapted from: Fur Friends’ Pet Grooming via Facebook, Paoh T via Google Maps, @ilivetoeat_jpg via Instagram
Originally published on 16th June 2022. Last updated by Khoo Yong Hao on 25th May 2026.

The post 18 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Spend Your CDC Vouchers On Like Cat Cafes & Gaming Consoles appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

You Can Host Atas Netflix Watch Parties & Karaoke Sessions At This New Private Cinema In SG

Khoo Yong Hao — Fri, 22 May 2026 03:45:41 +0000

The Clarity Club private cinema in Bukit Merah

In today’s day and age of instant gratification, who doesn’t own a subscription to a streaming platform or 2? From Disney+ and Netflix to Amazon Prime and HBO Max, we’ve all dabbled in a late-night binge once in a while, but surely we can do better than squinting at our tiny smartphone screens as we’re tucked in bed.

Enter The Clarity Club. Located along Jalan Bukit Merah, it’s a private cinema facility where users can host not only elevated watch parties, but also karaoke sessions and even gaming marathons. Here’s all you need to know before you ring them up to make a booking.

How to get to The Clarity Club?

Image credit: FlySpaces

The Clarity Club is located on the 4th floor of Apex @ Henderson, an industrial development situated along Jalan Bukit Merah. The building is about a 15-minute walk from the Redhill MRT station on the East-West Line. Alternatively, you can take bus no. 132 from the MRT station and alight at the Blk 116 bus stop (stop ID: 10349); Apex @ Henderson will then be a 4-minute walk away.

If you’re driving, you’ll be able to find plenty of parking within Apex @ Henderson, and the parking rates are as follows:

Mon-Sat:

7am-6pm: $0.80/30 mins
6pm-7am: $2.50/entry

Sun & PH: $2.50/entry

What to expect at The Clarity Club?

The Clarity Club is a private entertainment club that users can rent out for immersive audiovisual experiences. In simpler terms, it’s a pad that’s decked out specifically to host the most atas of watch parties.

Right now, they’re renting out their spaces to all, but they’ll be rolling out memberships in the near future, which will be extended to guests who book their Grand Theatre during this inaugural phase. As of writing, there’s no word on how much these memberships will cost, or how exclusive they will be with handing out invites.

Image credit: Tagvenue

Speaking of which, check out their Grand Theatre. Available for rent for $300/hour, every element of the movie viewing experience has been taken into consideration and optimised for maximum immersion.

Image credit: Tagvenue

This private cinema sports a huge 200-inch, 4K projection screen, as well as a Full Dolby Atmos surround sound system. The Grand Theatre comfortably accommodates up to 14 guests with its plush, tiered seating – you don’t have to crane your head at weird angles to catch the on-screen action.

Do note that you’ll have to come with your own streaming accounts in order to project your movies via their system, so be sure to jio friends who have subscriptions to your desired platforms.

Image for illustrative purposes only.

But if you’re not in the mood to catch up on episodes of your favourite series, the Grand Theatre is also capable of hosting quite the shindig with its karaoke system that’s loaded with the latest hits. For gamers, you can also request for PS5 and Xbox consoles to host gaming sessions of your own.

With the World Cup season just around the corner, consider a booking with The Clarity Club so you can cheer to your heart’s content without waking up the neighbours.

View this post on Instagram

In fact, they’ve got a promotion that’s available on the opening match, semi-finals, third-place playoffs, and finals of the tournament, where you can enjoy a 3-hour booking of the Grand Theatre for $1,000. Make your bookings before 31st May 2026, and they’ll even throw in a free-flow snacks and drinks package worth $200.

Upgrade movie nights with The Clarity Club

If you’re looking to level up movie nights, then The Clarity Club is the place to be. With cutting-edge sound systems and a cosy ambience, you won’t have to worry about prying eyes as you watch your favourite flicks in peace.

Book a private cinema experience with The Clarity Club

The Clarity Club

For similar spaces, check out:

Cover image adapted from: Tagveune

The post You Can Host Atas Netflix Watch Parties & Karaoke Sessions At This New Private Cinema In SG appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

New Bahru Just Got Bigger With A New Factory Block And 15 New Tenants To Explore In River Valley

Dewi Nurjuwita — Tue, 12 May 2026 09:00:18 +0000

New Bahru, lifestyle destination with over 60 brands

In case you haven’t been down to Singapore’s lifestyle venue, New Bahru, you might want to pencil in a trip in your calendar. The restored 1960s building has recently completed its final touch-ups to open its new Factory Block, bringing its tenant count to a whopping 62.

Image credit: New Bahru

Helmed by lifestyle brand Lo & Behold Group, who are behind aesthetic places like The Warehouse Hotel and Tanjong Beach Club, New Bahru blends modern architecture with heritage to transform the old school grounds into a creative experience. Its retail and dining outlets are now fully open for all to explore. But with the creative cluster spanning a total of 20,156sqft, we get that it can be quite overwhelming. Read on for an unofficial directory to New Bahru – you can thank us later.

What is the history of New Bahru?

While its name means “new” in English and Malay, the site that New Bahru stands on has a rich history. It was once home to Nan Chiau High School – before the school moved to its current address in Sengkang, that is. The school was opened in 1941 at Kim Yam Road in River Valley, and was further expanded in 1974.

But this isn’t the first time the space has been transformed into a lifestyle destination. 46 Kim Yam Road was formerly known as The Herencia, housing tenants like KURA Patisserie and Crane, a co-working and events space.

New Bahru first opened its doors to the public in May 2024, boasting a variety of both homegrown and international independent brands, such as Beyond The Vines and The Potters’ Guilt.

Its newest block, the Factory Block, is finally open to the public, with the site now housing 12 new tenants ranging from curated Japanese fashion to Italian cuisine. There is also a communal dining hall with food kiosks for hungry shoppers to makan between retail therapy. 3 new tenants were also added to the School Block for a total of 15 new shops.

The 15 new tenants are:

Dumpling Darlings
Parlour Gelato
Sushiro New Bahru
Fico (limited-time pop-up till 28th July)
Kulon
Laifaba
Orh Gao Peh Gao
Kios Minang
Beams
Future Resonance
Veja (limited-time pop-up)
Yeti (limited-time pop-up)
Stacked Store
Source at Store Store (limited-time pop-up till 31st July)
Atlas Kind at Store Store (limited-time pop-up till 31st July)

Factory Block

– Retail-

1. Beams

Curated fashion, art, and lifestyle goods

First founded in Harajuku, Japan, in 1976, Beams has grown to be a major fashion and lifestyle collective carrying both international and Japanese brands alongside their own in-house label products.

It may seem like Beams is your regular retailer selling different brands, but the Japanese lifestyle label stands out with its selective curation of fashion, art, and lifestyle goods. Beams is the main label, but there are also over 30 sub-labels, such as Beams Plus and Ray Beams, that offer classic, everyday fashion and lifestyle products.

You can even find merchandise like keychains, tees, and caps exclusive to Singapore.

BEAMS Singapore

2. Stacked Store

Fun & whimsical household products

You might have seen the iconic living room installation by home and lifestyle retailer, Stacked Store, on social media. They have now opened their first standalone retail store in New Bahru, offering a curated mix of independent brands, homeware, and quirky pieces that make for great conversation-starters.

Aside from shopping their variety of lifestyle products and art, you can also expect workshops, collaborative pop-ups, and exclusive launches from the store’s curated roster of independent brands.

Stacked Store – Home Decor & Gift Shop

F&B

3. Dumpling Darlings

Izakaya-inspired menu of small plate

Image credit: Dumpling Darlings

Known for their savoury dumplings and egg-noodles, the dumpling speciality store from Amoy Street, Dumpling Darlings, has opened its third store at New Bahru.

Crowd favourites include their Original dumplings ($8), which include minced pork collar mixed with napa cabbage, ginger soy sauce, and black vinaigrette, and the Fried Pierogi dumplings ($9), which feature smoked bacon, truffle potato, caramelised onions, cheddar, and sriracha cream. If you’re spoilt for choice and can’t seem to decide, you can opt for their Dumpling Platter of 15 ($28), which will include 3 each of their original, veggie, crab & prawn, pierogi, and duck dumplings.

Image credit: @dumpling.darlings via Instagram

Dumpling Darlings might have dumplings in their name, but they are also known for their egg noodles. You can also dig into their Miso Mushroom Noodles ($11.50) or XO Prawn Noodles ($13).

Since the restaurant has an izakaya-inspired menu, you can also look forward to small plates like the Gamja-Jeom ($8) and Agedashi Prawn Tofu ($10).

Dumpling Darlings (New Bahru)

4. Kios Minang

Nasi Padang served kiosk-style

Known for bona fide Indonesian food, Rumah Makan Minang’s concept store, Kios Minang, at New Bahru is designed to reintroduce the Nasi Padang through a modern kiosk format.

They may have started out as a small roadside stall along Kandahar Street in the 1940s, but Rumah Makan Minang has now represented Singapore internationally in food carnivals organised by the Singapore Tourism Board in Shanghai and Cape Town. The New Bahru’s concept store is led by second-generation owner and chef, Ariff Zin, for a modernised twist on heritage food.

Minang Dulang Signature
Image credit: Kios Minang

Explore Minang specialities like rendang, sambal belado, Ayam Gulai, and a New Bahru exclusive – the Padang Wrap, which is filled with a mix of brown and red rice, fresh pico de gallo, rich gulai sauce, and their signature sambal belado.

Kios Minang

5. Orh Gao Peh Gao

Coffeeshop & craft beer bar

Coffeeshop by day and craft beer bar by night, Orh Gao Peh Gao is serving up modern takes on coffeeshop favourites, beers on tap, and Asian-inspired dishes.

Image adapted from: Peh Gao

From 8am to 4pm, you can expect breakfast classics like the Kaya Butter Toast ($2.80) at Peh Gao Coffeeshop. The coffeeshop will also expand to include heartier dishes for the lunch crowd from 11am onwards, such as the Pho Original ($13) and the Nasi Lemak Rempah Chicken ($12).

Image credit: Orh Gao Taproom

From 4pm onwards, the coffeeshop retires itself for Orh Gao Taproom. You can expect a weekly rotating selection of 14 beers on tap, ranging from crisp lagers to seasonal releases from local and international brewers.

Accompany your pint with small plates like the Tofu Dip + Wanton Chips ($11) or the Gao Vinegar Fries ($13). If you’re looking for a heartier meal, opt for the Curry Mussels ($21) which are cooked in sambal butter, or the Crab Fried Rice ($19).

Unit number: #02-02

6. Parlour Gelato

Modern gelato shop with classic flavours

Save room for dessert after your meal or have a sweet treat as you browse the new tenants at the Factory Block. Inspired by classics and modern favourites, Parlour Gelato offers 16 flavours of sorbets and gelatos.

Indulge in classic favourites like Strawberries & Cream ($6.80) which features fresh berries caramelised over 3 hours or modern twists like Matcha Raspberry ($6.80). The store’s palette of soft yellows, creams, and fresh green accents alongside stained glass windows also makes for an aesthetic shot for your social media posts.

Parlour Gelato

Kid-friendly tenants & activities

7. Kiztopia Prestige

Indoor playground with in-house cafe

Kiztopia Prestige marks a fresh new concept for the Kiztopia brand, adding on to its list of indoor playgrounds around the island. There are over 8,000sqft worth of interactive role-play rooms, thought-out classes, and even an in-house Kith Cafe.

Image credit: Kiztopia

The kids can spend all day here playing in the sand and ball pits, zooming down curving slides, and jumping around on the trampoline. Plus, this outlet is all decked out in neutral colours, encouraging the concept of “soft play”.

Single admission tickets are priced at $32/1 hour and $48/2 hours. Any additional accompanying adult can join in the fun for $15/adult. Alternatively, there is also the Annual Pass ($868) which gives you free priority for a whole year as well as 10% discount on F&B, retail, events, and single admission tickets.

Kiztopia Prestige

Admission Fee

From $32/hour

Recommended tickets at S$15.00

S$15.00

Buy Kiztopia Prestige tickets.

School Block

– Retail & workshops-

8. Future resonance

Sound baths & meditation sessions

Dedicated to exploring how sound, light, and spatial design interact with human biology to support regulation and restoration, Future Resonance is New Bahru’s latest wellness addition.

Image credit: Bryan via Google Maps

Founded by the same team behind Pyramids of Chi in Bali, Future Resonance integrates ancient practices refined through contemporary research and live experience to bring frequency-led wellbeing into modern life.

With programs that include Sound Healing, Light Sound Vibration, and daily somatic practices for nervous system regulation, the space provides a multisensory sanctuary to regulate your nervous system.

Future Resonance

9. Sojao

Mix & match organic cotton bedsheets

Those who are familiar with homegrown bedding brand Sojao may have visited its Joo Chiat flagship store. The boutique at New Bahru is slightly smaller, but borrows certain elements like the dark wood finishing and colourful crates used as display.

Known for their organic cotton bedsheets, Sojao’s products will help you turn your bedroom into a sanctuary with staycay vibes. It helps that they come in a myriad of colours too – from solid colours like burnt orange, grey, and olive green, to striped ones.

Prices for a single-sized fitted sheet starts from $92 while duvet covers start from $128. But you can also get a bundle set (from $227.94), which includes a duvet cover. They’ve got a “Build Your Dream Bed” section in the store where you can mix and match the colours and materials – be it sateen or percale.
Loungewear like organic cotton t-shirts (from $38) and loungewear pants (from $52) is available as well – made out of the same comfy materials.

SOJAO

10. Soilboy

Plant store with Japanese zen garden vibes

Stepping into Soilboy feels like retreating into a peaceful sanctuary. The store has been designed to look like a Japanese zen garden – with a neutral colour palette, play on natural light, and of course, plenty of green plants.

If you’ve been wanting to shop for plants for your BTO, Soilboy has plants that come equipped with pots. While prices aren’t cheap, the staff are equipped with all the plant care knowledge you’ll need before committing to taking one home. Most of them also come in beautiful ceramic planters – so they’re ready to be part of your home decor.

Soilboy, New Bahru

11. MAKE by GINLEE Studio

Pleating workshops

For unique locally-made pieces, head to Make by GINLEE. It’s an initiative that uses repurposed or leftover materials by the brand to keep them out of the landfill for as long as possible. You can find customisable bags with the same pleats that the brand is known for, resulting in a one-of-a-kind arm candy.

Similar to the one at Raffles City, the MAKE Studio here holds pleating workshops ($88/pax) in store, where you’ll get an introduction to the craft of pleating and circularity before getting down to business. Choose from a selection of pleats, colours, wraps, straps, and eyelets. At the end of the class, you’ll be able to take your creation home.

[Explorer]

MAKE by GINLEE

Recommended tickets at S$127.65

S$127.65

Book the pleated bag experience.

12. Crafune

Leather goods & crafting workshops

What’s better than treating yourself to a new leather product? Making one yourself, of course. Whether you’re getting a thoughtful gift for someone or investing in a card holder for your big girl or boy job, Crafune has different leather crafting workshops where you can make various accessories – such as the Moneta Mini Wallet Workshop ($89) or the 3 Accessories Workshop ($89), where you get to make a card sleeve, coin pouch, and keychain

Should you choose to take a shortcut and purchase a ready-made item instead, know that you can still choose to have your name or initials engraved on it. We love the different fonts available, be it Y.Serif or Optima.

Crafune

Book the leather accessories workshop.

13. The Potters’ Guilt

Hands-on workshop to try working the wheel

Image credit: @thepottersguilt via Instagram

If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at pottery, look no further than The Potters’ Guilt. After a 90-minute session ($58) with them, terms like “firing”, “glazes”, and “clay bodies” will all start making more sense. The facilitators come with years of experience, so whether you’re looking to try this for fun or decide to pursue an intermediate course, you’re in good hands.

Leave the studio with a piece of tableware made by your very own hands. You’ll get a chance to try cone shaping up and down on the pottery wheel before making your chosen homeware.

Of course, if you’d rather skip the mess and purchase one of the stunning pieces made by the professionals, the store carries all sorts of vases, plates, and other vessels.

The Potters’ Guilt, New Bahru

Book the Pottery on the Wheel experience.

F&B

14. Kotuwa

Elevated Sri Lankan cuisine

Kotuwa’s been serving up elevated Sri Lankan food in the lobby of the Wanderlust Hotel since its inception. Now, it has moved into its own space at New Bahru. Expect similar aesthetics, a cosy restaurant with decor that nods to chef Rishi Naleendra’s heritage.

Image credit: Kotuwa

Order up mains like the Lamb Shank ($42), braised in Sri Lankan red curry paired with plain ($5) or egg hoppers ($7). If you’re on a plant-based diet, know that there are also veggie-based mains like the Amba Curry ($18), green mango cooked in turmeric and coconut, and the Gowa Mal Kiri Hodi ($18).

If you’re just there for a tipple, there’s also the bar located right at the entrance. The menu is inspired by the 1996 Lion’s Cup, with cocktails like the Head Spinner ($25) – a punchy concoction of Aba Pisco, guava, tamarind, and chilli – or the rum-based Uncle Percy ($25).

Kotuwa

15. The Coconut Club

Restaurant specialising in nasi lemak

If Nasi Lemak is your favourite local food of all time, then you’ll love The Coconut Club. In fact, the restaurant specialises in dishes that are based around coconut milk, hence its name.

Image credit: @thecoconutclubsg via Instagram

You can’t leave without trying their Signature Ayam Goreng Berempah Nasi Lemak ($21), which has spiced fried bone-in chicken thigh and crispy rempah crumbs. It’s served alongside a serving of coconut rice, fried egg, anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and sambal. The restaurant also has vegetarian-friendly options such as the Cucur Sayur ($12), which features crispy veggie fritters in tomato belado, and the Mushroom Rendang ($18).

The Coconut Club River Valley

16. Artichoke Pizza Parlour

“New school” Middle Eastern cuisine

Artichoke first opened its doors to serve up Middle Eastern cuisine. It has since relaunched into Artichoke Pizza Parlour, a new-school pizza joint inspired by chef-owner Bjorn Shen’s love for pizza. The pizza joint retains an old-school soul, with nostalgia-filled tastes and decor.

Image credit: Artichoke Pizza Parlour

Expect bold flavours with their Slabs, which are Sicilian-styled and frico-based rectangles with a crispy cheddar bottom. Options include the classic Beef Pepperoni ($26) or the Bacon Apple Pie ($34), which comes with brie, apple butter, and hazelnuts. Their Rounds features pizza with a puffy, airy crust in flavours like the Tropic Thunder ($34), which is topped with Parma ham, stracciatella, jackfruit, ginger flower, hot honey, and mint for a burst of flavour.

For desserts, dig into their OG Date Pudding ($16) or from their selection of Fresh Churned Ice Cream (from $5).

Head to the back of the restaurant and you’ll find Small’s hidden behind some curtains a la secret izakaya bars in Japan. It’s a 7-seater space which offers an omakase-style themed menu. Until 28th June 2026, Small’s is hosting their All-fish Korean BBQ omakase ($138++/pax). Expect plates with butter-roasted abalone, tuna galbi, and conger eels.

Do note that you’ll have to make reservations in advance due to the limited number of seats.

Book a seat at Small’s.

Artichoke

17. One Prawn & Co

Modern Asian seafood restaurant using woodfire grilling

Image credit: @oneprawnco via Instagram

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. Led by Chef Gwyneth, One Prawn & Co is a seafood grill that uses traditional wood fire-cooking and dry-aged techniques. The menu features modern Asian cuisine, with dishes such as The Holy Halibut Burger ($26) and Prawn Bisque Ramen ($30) for lunch.

Come evening, the dinner menu serves up the likes of “Typhoon Shelter” Prawn ($56), 16 Days Dry-Aged Kingfish Loin ($30/100g), and 7 Days Dry-Aged Black Cod ($32/100g).

Pair the delectable food with handcrafted cocktails from their extensive drinks menu. With options ranging from the non-alcoholic Dragon’s Breath Cooler ($8) to the Chambord Spritz ($23), you’ll be spoilt for choice.

One Prawn & Co

Book a cocktail appreciation workshop.

Kid-friendly tenants & activities

18. Sea Apple

Sustainable clothing for kids & DIY “craft bar”

Once mama and papa are done with retail therapy, the little ones can have their fair share at Sea Apple. This sustainable children’s clothing brand for those aged 0-14 has everything – from outfits featuring original prints inspired by the 90s to a range of children’s books and Jellycat plushies.

The highlight of the store is located at the counter. There’s an initiative called Sea Apple Create, where you can purchase a product from the store with the “Sea Apple Create” tag and bling it up with patches (from $1) and stickers ($5). It’s a fun way to let your kids flaunt their creativity. Psst, it’s also a perfect crafting idea for those who are young at heart.

Sea Apple

19. Oatside Outdoor playground

Free playground with trampolines, swings & a massive slide

What used to be a lawn back when the area was Nan Chiau High School has now been transformed into a playground for the kids to run wild at in between meals and shopping sprees. The design is loosely inspired by the iconic dragon playground in Toa Payoh.

There’s an Oatside-branded slide that’s perfect for kids, 2 trampolines, and swings. It’s also located right next to a grassy field surrounded by towering rain trees, which brings in an element of nature to this lifestyle cluster.

Stay

20. Alma House

83-room serviced apartment inspired by old-school HDBs

With so many dining and retail options to keep you occupied, we don’t blame you if you’d want to BTO in New Bahru. Enter: Alma House, an 83-room serviced apartment on the premises.

Fun fact: These guest rooms were once classrooms back when the building was still Nan Chiau High School.

There are different room categories ranging from the Deluxe Room and Studio to a 1- and 2-Bedroom Suite. Each boasts interior design that’s inspired by old-school HDB units in Singapore. For those having a staycation with the kiddos, the Alma Family Suite is also available. Standard rates start from $1,140 for 6 nights, which is the minimum number of nights you can book.

While the Alma House Lobby Lounge is usually only accessible to staying guests, for a limited time, they have opened their doors to the public. Enjoy Happy Hour at Alma House ($15) with 2 beer bottles or 2 glasses of wine in their cosy space.

Alma House

Admission Fee

From $180/night with min. 6 nights stay

How to get to New Bahru

New Bahru is accessible by buses 32, 54, 139, 195, and 195A which stops at Before Kim Yam Rd as well as buses 64, 123, and 143 which stops at UE Square.

For those coming via MRT, New Bahru is a 15-minute walk from Great World MRT Station and 13 minutes from Fort Canning MRT Station.

And in case you’re not looped in, there is a free shuttle bus that runs daily between Somerset & New Bahru. Take note though that seats are limited and on a first come first serve basis. You can check their schedule for daily shuttle timings.

Visit New Bahru at Kim Yam Road, River Valley

Image credit: New Bahru

New Bahru may still be relatively new, but there’s plenty to do. You can easily spend a whole day here. It’s fully operational now, and you can expect more than 60 local businesses ranging from F&B to retail, entertainment, wellness, and even education. Think of it like an alternative shopping mall.

New Bahru

For more things to check out in SG:

Photography by Ally Siew and Ashley Hoon
Cover image adapted from: The Smart Local and Peh Gao
Originally published on 22nd June 2024. Last updated by Chandelle Cheong on 12th May 2026.

The post New Bahru Just Got Bigger With A New Factory Block And 15 New Tenants To Explore In River Valley appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

There’ll Soon Be A New Indoor Pickleball Arena At Orchid Country Club, Replacing Its FairPrice Outlet

Andrea Chandra Putri — Tue, 12 May 2026 07:15:39 +0000

Indoor pickleball arena at Orchid Country Club

The country club is probably your go-to spot for golf, but it could be your next regular haunt for pickleball too. Soon, you’ll be able to hit up your besties for a game at the new indoor pickleball arena at Orchid Country Club (OCC), adding yet another spot to your court rotation.

Why did the FairPrice outlet at Orchid Country Club close?

Image credit: FairPrice Orchid Country Club via Google Maps

The FairPrice outlet at Orchid Country Club closed down on 11th May 2026, after 16 years of service. While you’re probably wondering why, the country club didn’t disclose a specific reason for the closure, only springing a surprise announcement on Facebook and Instagram less than a week before it happened.

Screenshot from: Facebook

Understandably, some lamented the sudden loss of their regular grocery spot. Many frequented this outlet for its wide offerings, lack of crowds, and free parking right in front.

Screenshot from: Facebook

That said, others have also shown some understanding of this change. OCC is also one of the country clubs in SG closing by 2035, which may make it difficult for the supermarket chain to find reasons to stay. The rising popularity of pickleball may have also contributed to the final decision to turn the supermarket into an indoor pickleball arena.

Where will the new indoor pickleball arena be located within Orchid Country Club?

Image credit: Klook

The new indoor pickleball arena will be built in the Recreation Clubhouse at OCC. As mentioned, these new pickleball courts will take over the space previously occupied by FairPrice on Level 1.

Do I need to be a member of the Orchid Country Club to use these new courts?

Nope. Anyone can play at the indoor arena, even if you’re not a member of the country club.

When will the indoor pickleball arena open?

View this post on Instagram

As of writing, there hasn’t been any news about when this new indoor arena will open, but you can stay tuned for any updates on the Orchid Country Club Instagram page.

In the meantime, head down to The ARK Pickle, also located within OCC. There are 2 sheltered courts, which you can book on the ARK website.

How can I get to Orchid Country Club?

Image credit: Buses In Lion City via Facebook

OCC is located in Yishun – if you’re taking the bus, hop on Bus 117 and alight at the Orchid Country Club (#59749) or the Opp Orchid Country Club (#59741) bus stop, depending on which direction you’re taking.

Image credit: ShuttleBusFinder

Alternatively, hop on their free shuttle bus from Yishun MRT Exit B – it runs every 30 minutes, so do plan ahead and check the bus schedule on the Orchid Country Club website to avoid turning up late for your court booking.

Play pickleball in air-conditioned comfort

With so many new pickleball courts popping up islandwide, Singaporeans are spoilt for choice. But if you’d rather not sweat it out in the heat, keep the upcoming indoor pickleball arena at OCC on your radar for air-conditioned games instead.

Orchid Country Club

For more pickleball reads:

Cover image adapted from: Klook

The post There’ll Soon Be A New Indoor Pickleball Arena At Orchid Country Club, Replacing Its FairPrice Outlet appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

All You Need To Know About The Punggol Digital District, SG’s First Smart District That’s Opening This Year

Nathan Koh — Tue, 12 May 2026 05:20:32 +0000

Punggol Digital District

Spanning 50ha in the North East region of the island, the Punggol Digital District is Singapore’s first smart district. It’s a sustainable technology business park that houses major tech firms, a mall, a school campus, and soon, a hotel set to open in 2027. Here’s everything you need to know about this district when you visit it as it becomes fully operational in 2026.

What makes the Punggol Digital District smart?

Image credit: JTC

The Punggol Digital District uses an operating system developed by JTC and GovTech, named the Open Digital Platform (ODP). It monitors and controls real-time conditions of various locations within the business park, which allows different systems to work together on a central platform, from lifts and escalators to air-conditioning and smart robots. At the command post, all system activity and data will be collected and visualised on screens and a 3D replica of the district.

Image credit: JTC

Through AI and machine learning, smart sensors can save energy by automatically adjusting indoor conditions. For instance, lights and air conditioning automatically turn off when an office is empty.

The ODP also lets creators tap into the platform for plug-and-play ideas that encourage collaboration and contribution to the district.

What are the main features of the Punggol Digital District?

Sustainable design

Image credit: JTC

The Punggol Digital District is not just pretty; it’s designed sustainably with a main focus on technology and green spaces. An example is Tower 86. Instead of steel beams, it was constructed with mass-engineered timber, which is a renewable material. Like many of the other buildings in the district, it’s North-South aligned to allow natural daylight to fill its spaces throughout the year. Its triangular design also encourages natural ventilation, which cools certain areas without the need for air-conditioning.

Image credit: JTC

Tower 86 is only one of the many buildings that focus on sustainability. To top it all off, solar panels were installed on the roofs of many buildings to power the district. Punggol Digital District also reduces food waste by turning it into fertilisers, and filters rainwater through gardens and eco-ponds to irrigate the many green spaces.

Connectivity to & around the district

Image credit: JTC

The most iconic feature of the Punggol Digital District is the aesthetic red bridge that connects you to various landmarks within the district. It’s a 2km loop bridge, offering views of the many green spaces, such as Coney Island.

If you’re planning an active day out from the East, consider cycling from Pasir Ris to Coney Island, and from there, you’ll only be a bridge away from the Punggol Digital District. And for those taking the train, everything is less than a 5-minute walk the moment you exit the station.

What can you expect at the Punggol Digital District?

Punggol Coast Mall

Image credit: JTC

The most popular landmark in the Punggol Digital District that you might already be familiar with is the Punggol Coast Mall. There are many eateries for students, workers, and visitors, such as Café&Meal MUJI, Astons, and Sushi-GO – a sushi restaurant with robot servers. There are also beauty and wellness stores, tuition centres, and a FairPrice Finest.

In-store navigation (left) & The Grocer Bar (right).

This isn’t your typical FairPrice, as the FairPrice Finest at Punggol Coast Mall is the world’s first Generative AI (Gen-AI)-powered supermarket. There are also smart carts with interactive displays that provide in-store navigation, and The Grocer Bar, which serves drinks and cocktails.

Punggol Coast Mall

Punggol Coast Hawker Centre

Image credit: KZ Seet via Google Maps

A 2-minute walk from the Punggol Coast MRT station will lead you to the Punggol Coast Hawker Centre. With over 40 stalls, including Michelin-recognised eateries, there’s something for everyone. Popular stalls include South Buona Vista Braised Duck, Pin Wei Hong Kong Style Chee Cheong Fun, and the Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore Fried Hokkien Mee.

Punggol Coast Hawker Centre

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)

If you’ve seen photos of the red bridge at the Punggol Digital District and wondered what it was, it’s actually part of the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) Punggol Campus. Striving to be a University of Applied Learning, it makes sense to have students and industry integrated within the district, even allowing students to tap into the ODP. Even if you’re not a student, certain areas of the SIT Pungol Campus are accessible to the public.

Image credit: JTC

Stroll along the Campus Boulevard – an 800m walkway connecting the whole district. There will also be a 1.3km green Heritage Trail set to be completed by the end of 2026, which will be through the old Punggol Road linking Punggol Waterway Park to Punggol Promenade. If you’re looking for F&B options, head to Foodgle Hub and Wholesome by Food Canopy on campus.

There will also be a 1.3km green Heritage Trail running along the old Punggol Road, linking Punggol Waterway Park to Punggol Promenade. The first 400m stretch already opened in August 2025, with the rest of the trail expected to be ready by the end of this year.

Singapore Institute of Technology (Campus Heart)

Tech companies

Image credit: JTC

Even before all of the buildings in the Punggol Digital District were fully up and running, at least 65% of the office spaces were snapped up by tech companies. Some tenants include GovTech, Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, dConstruct, and banks like UOB and OCBC, with both banks setting up innovation hubs for fintech and other smart technologies.

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image adapted from: JTC

Robotics firm dConstruct plans to use its space to test robots that can specialise in deliveries and surveillance. Having the ODP operating within the district also allows them to tap into it for navigation and other real-world testing.

Upcoming hotel by Habyt

Artist’s impression of the upcoming hotel at the Punggol Digital District.
Image credit: JTC

The Punggol Digital District is also getting its very own 224-room hotel, operated by Habyt, the same group behind co-living space Kada at Maxwell. Rooms come in studio and loft styles, and while the hotel is mainly catered towards visiting researchers, business partners, and students in the district, that doesn’t mean a staycay is off the table.

Startups and robotics companies can use the hotel as a live testbed for their tech through the ODP, and Habyt will also be partnering with SIT to offer students hospitality internships and attachments right in the same neighbourhood. Construction is expected to kick off this month, with the hotel targeted to open in the first half of 2027.

Getting around the Punggol Digital District

The best way to get to the Punggol Digital District is via the train. Take the MRT to the last stop of the North East Line, Punggol Coast MRT Station, and you’ll be in the heart of the district. For those taking the bus, hop on bus services 34, 44, 104, and 117, and alight at the last stop, Punggol Coast Bus Interchange.

For the more adventurous, Punggol is also home to Singapore’s first self-driving shuttles in the heartland. Operated by Grab, Route 3 connects residents from Punggol West to the PDD via the Punggol Coast Bus Interchange. The shuttles are currently free to ride during the public ride phase, with paid fares of around $4 per trip expected from mid-2026.

Visit the Punggol Digital District

If you still think of the Punggol area as an ulu kampong, the Punggol Digital District shows us that it’s far from that. It’s now the blueprint of how future districts in Singapore can look and how a place can be technologically advanced while still being green. So, whether you stay at Clementi or Tampines, it’s time to plan a short trip to the North East to experience the future.

For more things to do in Punggol:

Cover image adapted from: JTC
Last updated by Celine Wee on 12th May 2026.

The post All You Need To Know About The Punggol Digital District, SG’s First Smart District That’s Opening This Year appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

All We Know About The Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative, From A New Concert Venue To Pop-Up Spaces

Andrea Chandra Putri — Mon, 11 May 2026 08:09:19 +0000

Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative

Anyone looking for a weekend hangout spot would probably have Orchard Road at the top of their lists. But if you’re thinking, “Been there, done that”, don’t fret, because the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative will bring a new wave of offerings for you to enjoy with your besties.

What is the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative?

The Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative is the Singapore Tourism Board’s latest set of plans to maintain and boost the area as a lifestyle destination. This continues the efforts to revitalise the area that started with the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Plan, which was first announced in 2019.

When will the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative start?

The initiative is slated to begin soon in mid-2026. Other parties, such as mall and hotel operators and event organisers, will also have 2 years to come up with proposals to further rejuvenate the area.

What are the key developments in the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative?

Grange Road Events Venue

Image credit: Live Nation

Anyone who’s fought in the Ticketmaster war for major concerts in Singapore may be familiar with Live Nation, the concert promoter that hosts ticket presales. But ICYMI, they’re opening their own live event space, dubbed the Grange Road Events Venue.

This new music hall can hold up to 3,000 people and will be able to host both local and international acts. There will even be a cafe and bar for concertgoers to grab some refreshments before the show.

Istana Park expansion

Image credit: National Parks Board

New green spaces have been popping up in the Orchard area, such as the outdoor community space over at Temasek Shophouse. Just a short walk away, right across the Istana, you can also find Istana Park, which is due for an expansion as part of the initiative.

The existing park will be merged with the nearby Dhoby Ghaut Green, as well as another 500m stretch on Orchard Road, to create a refreshed and larger park. At 3 times its original size, it’ll include a nature play garden, an open lawn, and an activity promenade.

NoMad hotel by Hilton

Image credit: Hilton

Anyone looking for a new hotel to staycay at might want to keep the NoMad hotel on their radar. The concept by Hilton is due to open along Orchard Road in 2027, marking its first foray into the Asia Pacific region. There’ll be 173 rooms, an infinity pool and a sky terrace for anyone who wants a good view of the city.

Ready-to-use pop-up spaces

Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: LEGO

If Orchard Road is your regular haunt, you would have noticed the many pop-up stores coming and going. But now, instead of getting torn down at the end of each event, these ready-to-use pop-up spaces will be here to stay.

Located between Wisma Atria and Ngee Ann City, up to 3 spaces will be available for brands to set up their pop-up stores. These spaces are expected to be around until the end of 2028.

Somerset Belt

Somerset may just be the height of youth offerings in the Orchard area, from thrills at Trifecta to the iconic hangout spot that is *SCAPE. Soon enough, you’ll find more reasons to pop by the Somerset Belt.

You can look forward to 4 interconnected zones along this stretch, each with its own charm. Meet new friends at Youth Park, the zone dedicated to community gatherings, or flex your creative juices at Incubation Nexus, a centre for innovation. The Skate Park will let you channel your inner Tony Hawk or dabble in some other urban sports, but anyone looking to take a chill pill instead can find themselves at Somerset Slopes, a green space meant for quiet reflection.

Tanglin Shopping Centre

Image credit: Pacific Eagle Real Estate

Tanglin Shopping Centre was one of the oldest shopping malls in Singapore, but it has since been demolished to make way for a new mixed-use development. Once it opens, you’ll be able to work, shop and play, all in one place – the new development is slated to have office, retail, wellness, and cultural spaces.

When will the Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative be completed?

The initiative’s developments will be completed in different stages – here are some of the expected completions that we know about so far:

Development	Expected completion
Grange Road Events Venue	End of 2026
NoMad Hotel	End of 2026
Pop-up spaces	End of 2026
Somerset Belt	End of 2027

Enjoy new happenings at Orchard Road

With so many things to offer from this initiative, there won’t be a dull moment on your next outing to Orchard Road. There’ll be something for everyone, from the thrillseekers to the ones who want to take it easy.

Check out more things to do in Singapore:

Cover image adapted from: National Parks Board, Hilton, Live Nation

The post All We Know About The Orchard Road Rejuvenation Initiative, From A New Concert Venue To Pop-Up Spaces appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

The Seletar Mall Is Opening Till Late This May & Will Turn Into A Skating Haven For 4 Days

Khoo Yong Hao — Mon, 04 May 2026 07:18:31 +0000

The Seletar Mall Skatecross Downmall Challenge 2026

If you’ve ever wanted to lepak at a mall till the cows come home, this May, The Seletar Mall is the place to be. Following the success of their Downmall Cycling Challenge back in February, they’re bringing back the late-night, heart-pumping action once again with the Skatecross Downmall Challenge 2026.

The mall will be subjected to a 4 day-long roller sports takeover; think inline skating tryouts for beginners, a rollercross demonstration, and an epic, multi-level skatecross race. Plus, some of the stores will be opening till late, so you are still invited to hang around even if you’re giving the adrenaline rush a miss. Here’s all you need to know about it.

What to know about The Seletar Mall’s Skatecross Downmall Challenge 2026?

Image credit: The Seletar Mall via Facebook

As part of their Skatecross Downmall Challenge 2026 and late-night campaign, The Seletar Mall will play host to a slew of skating-centric activities from 7th-10th May 2026. The mall’s inviting folks of all ages and skill levels to come down and skate the night away within its premises.

A couple of stores and eateries are also adjusting their closing hours and will open till 4am, so you don’t have to worry about going hungry in the dead of night. There’ll also be promotions that late-night shoppers can enjoy too, making an after-hours trip down to The Seletar Mall that much more rewarding.

Skating activities

Image for illustrative purposes only.

An array of skating activities will take centre stage at The Seletar Mall this May, and even complete beginners can have a go teetering on a pair of skates. For instance, sign up for their inline skating tryouts happening across all 4 days. The mall’s atrium will be transformed into an open skating space that welcomes both novice and experienced skaters.

Image for illustrative purposes only.

Drop in for a group session, and you’ll be shown the ropes by instructors who’ll be more than happy to lend a helping hand. On the flipside, seasoned skaters can bust a move at the Advanced skating area which is packed with obstacles for an added level of difficulty. Fret not if you don’t have your own pair of skates; all the gear will be available for rent on-site.

Inline Skating Tryouts sessions

7th May, Thu: 5pm-10pm
8th May, Fri: 11am-7pm
9th May, Sat: 5pm-7pm
10th May, Sun: 11am-7pm

Swing by on 9th May 2026 to catch young performers strut their stuff during rollercross demonstrations; these will be happening at 2pm-3pm and 5pm-6pm.

View this post on Instagram

If your little one’s already familiar with skating and would like to put their skills to the test, sign them up for the Junior Rollercross Race also happening on the same day from 11am-5pm. There are 2 to tackle: one’s an obstacle course that features turns and ramps, and the other will test your control and precision with a 10-cone slalom.

Image adapted from: Dave Lau, The Seletar Mall

Finally, the main event – the Skatecross Downmall Race – will be happening all the way from 10pm, 9th May 2026, till 6am the next day. Portions of The Seletar Mall will be turned into a makeshift skatecross racecourse that spans multiple levels. Steep ramps, tight turns, and a custom-built escalator slide will test the participants mettle through a time-trial format, where the winner gets to walk home with attractive prizes.

Late-night shopping promotions

Image credit: Prestige Consultants via Google Maps

For those who’d rather sit out the thrills, take the chance to indulge in some late-night shopping. Here are some of the shops that’ll be open all the way till 4am daily:

24/7 Fitness
Cow Play Cow Moo
FairPrice Finest
Fun Claw
Gong Yuan Ma La Tang
Hai Di Lao Hot Pot
HaveFun Karaoke
Hi Claw
LiHo Tea
McDonald’s
Playground by Playmade
Pontian Wanton Noodle
Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks
Shiok Burger / Delibowl
Sukiya
Texas Chicken

Moreover, from now till 17th May 2026, visitors who spend a minimum of $30 in a single same-day receipt between 10pm and 3am at The Seletar Mall get to unlock a mystery locker that contains an exciting prize. These range from massage chairs to cash vouchers, and are limited to the first 300 redemptions monthly.

Also, from now till 28th June 2026, you can try your hand at a sure-win game when you hit a minimum spend of $100 at the above participating tenants between 9pm and 4am. You’ll get to snag Great Rewards Points for the Great Rewards SG app (App Store | Google Play) and e-Vouchers worth up to $10, limited to the first 600 redemptions per month.

Head down to The Seletar Mall for a late-night lepak sesh

Night owls, this one’s for you. With shops open till 4am and fun skating activities to dip your toes in, jio a friend and pop by The Seletar Mall for a late-night hang out; just make sure you’ve got a way to get home afterwards, or, you know, wait till the first train chugs along at the break of dawn.

Sign up for Skatecross Downmall Challenge 2026’s activities

The Seletar Mall

For more things to do in Singapore:

Cover image adapted from: The Seletar Mall, Dave Lau

The post The Seletar Mall Is Opening Till Late This May & Will Turn Into A Skating Haven For 4 Days appeared first on TheSmartLocal - Singapore's Leading Travel and Lifestyle Portal.

Monday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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Sunday	10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Monday	Open 24 Hours, and Open 24 Hours
Tuesday	Open 24 Hours
Wednesday	Open 24 Hours
Thursday	Open 24 Hours
Friday	Open 24 Hours
Saturday	Open 24 Hours
Sunday	Open 24 Hours

Monday	10:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Tuesday	10:00 AM - 08:00 PM
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Friday	10:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Saturday	08:30 AM - 05:30 PM
Sunday	08:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
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Thursday	11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday	11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday	09:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday	09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Monday	Closed
Tuesday	08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Saturday	08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Saturday	10:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Sunday	Closed

Monday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
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Wednesday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Thursday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Friday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Saturday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Sunday	Closed

Monday	10:30 AM - 09:30 PM
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Friday	10:30 AM - 08:30 PM
Saturday	10:30 AM - 08:30 PM
Sunday	10:30 AM - 08:30 PM

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Thursday	01:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Friday	01:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Saturday	01:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Sunday	01:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Monday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
Tuesday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
Wednesday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
Thursday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
Friday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
Saturday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
Sunday	10:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Monday	10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Tuesday	10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Wednesday	10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Thursday	10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Friday	10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
Saturday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Sunday	10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Monday	07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Tuesday	07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Wednesday	07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Thursday	07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Friday	07:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Saturday	07:30 AM - 04:00 PM
Sunday	07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Monday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM
Tuesday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM
Wednesday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM
Thursday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM
Friday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM
Saturday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM
Sunday	11:00 AM - 08:30 PM

Monday	11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday	11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday	11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday	11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday	11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday	10:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Sunday	10:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Monday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Sunday	10:00 AM - 07:00 PM

Monday	06:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Tuesday	06:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Wednesday	06:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Thursday	06:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Friday	12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday	12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday	12:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Monday	11:00 AM - 03:30 PM
Tuesday	11:00 AM - 03:30 PM
Wednesday	11:00 AM - 03:30 PM
Thursday	11:00 AM - 03:30 PM
Friday	11:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Saturday	11:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Sunday	11:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Monday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday	07:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Monday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday	06:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Monday	09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday	09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday	09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday	09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday	09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday	Closed
Sunday	Closed