I love to tell stories through interesting places and perspectives that they evoked in me, so sharing my photos and reviews on Google Maps make me happy, and others benefit from them too! Life is to be lived and discovered no matter where I am. There’s always something to see, experience and do in this lovely gem of a neighbourhood, Katong. Its lanes and alleys retain their richness in culture, history and local life amidst the new businesses and developments on its fringe.
Tired of run-of-the-mill stores? The eclectic mix of shops on the side roads will spice up your shopping experience. For hip and fun Singapore souvenirs, drop by Cat Socrates. To get a good night’s sleep and more for the home, head down to The Tatami Shop for its handmade quality range of Tatami furnishings and floorings. Create a greener home and office with functional yet stylishly designed plants at Tumbleweeds, which was started in 2017 by a Hong Kong-British couple.
As you browse the stores and wander through the many lanes, spot the playful wall mural of two boys on horseback and enjoy the complementary union of old and new architecture, both residential and commercial purposes. The beautifully restored shophouses and apartments with Peranakan details at Lotus at Joo Chiat will charm the socks off you. Stay in it and you may not want to move anywhere else. Further down off Upper East Coast road, a row of conserved residential terrace houses is tucked away from the main road. Built on raised ground, these colourful single storey terrace houses are one of its kind and definitely worth viewing.
After all that exploring and shopping, you’ll be lost for food choices to satiate your rumbling tummy. Have some local snacks at Kim Choo Kueh Chang, Katong Laksa or Peranakan delights at Singapore’s oldest Peranakan restaurant, Guan Hoe Soon. Go local at the many coffeeshops or choose from the diverse options that include Eurasian, German, Indian, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and the numerous cafes and pubs. I especially enjoy the Mexican food at Lower East Side, which also serves a mean horchata.
To round off the day, enjoy the cooling sea breeze while sipping margarita at Parkland Green, only a 15 minute stroll away. This is just a slice of the bigger pie that Katong has to offer. Experience it once, and you’ll want to return for more, just like I do!