Singapore, Emerald Hill Road district
Cover Emerald Hill (Photo: Getty Images)

From traditional architecture to its vibrant bar scene, here are some of the best spots to explore around the Emerald Hill neighbourhood

Take a step away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road and you will find Emerald Hill. A short walk from the bustling boulevard, Emerald Hill is a quiet enclave filled with rich Peranakan heritage

A fruit and nutmeg orchard in the 1800s, the area was initially owned by William Cuppage, the acting post master general in Singapore during that time. In the 1900s, the area was bought over by businessmen Seah Eng and Seah Boon Kang, who turned the plantation into a residential area. Terrace houses and shophouses were built over the years—the same houses we still see along the neighbourhood.

Today, these residential houses have been preserved and restored, adding character to the enclave. Below, we share some hidden gems to look out for when exploring the neighbourhood.

Read more: Neighbourhood guide: The best things to eat, see and do in Everton Park

To eat and drink

Acid Bar & Restaurant

Tucked away in Peranakan Place is Acid Bar, a quaint restaurant serving up hearty fusion fare. Start the meal with small plates like the truffle duck kueh pie tee, comprising succulent pulled duck legs, truffle mash and dried chili stuffed in a crisp kueh pie tee cup. Move on to mains and indulge in the spice route chicken that sees free range spring chicken marinated in an aromatic 18 spice and herb rub. It’s roasted until tender and juicy, and served with garlic chips and homemade sambal belachan. Pair your meal with classic cocktails from its extensive drink menu.

Opt to sit indoors and savour your meal while listening to live music. Live band line-ups are different each night, so head to their website to check out who’s playing before heading down.  

No.5 Emerald Hill

It’s always five o’clock somewhere, right? If you’re feeling a drink or two, take a break from exploring and head to No.5 Emerald Hill. Here, look forward to over 30 different concoctions ranging from classic cocktails to champagne martinis. The No.5 jello martini is a crowd favourite, a citrus-y and refreshing tipple complete with chewy jello cubes. Can’t decide what to get? Let the bartender know your drink preferences and leave it up to them.

To do 

Bbounce

Get your sweat on at Bbounce. A unique workout experience, Bbounce uses small trampolines (rebounders) to help get your heart rates up. Try the Bbounce Flex class—a crowd favourite, this full body workout session will see instructors coaching you through the various scientifically proven moves and tempo. All fitness levels are welcome.  

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Studio Miu Art

Let your creative juices flow at Studio Miu Art. Founded by Japanese artist and art entrepreneur Maya Takashi, this art studio will help you to hone your art skills while help you express your inner artist. A range of mediums and art forms are available to choose from, including ceramics and Chinese calligraphy.

Tea Bone Zen Mind

Learn more about tea culture at this quaint tea room. The tea house was founded by Carrie Chen, an enthusiast who have travelled across the world in search of fine quality tea and artisanal tea ware. Head down and sample blends from China, Japan and the United Kingdom before heading to the museum section to learn more about traditional and rare teas.

To see 

Sino-baroque architecture

While you’re here, don’t forget to admire the traditional sino-baroque architecture. Walk along the row of houses complete with traditional Teochew emerald green gateways and stunning porcelain roof ornamentations.  

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