Distance: 4 km
For the veggie lovers, plant-based yogis and artisan nomads, take a wander through Singapore’s Little India for shab-fab shophouses, ornate temples and rustic food joints abound in the city’s most vibrant hood.
A. Mustafa Centre
The journey starts with a big bang! Not for the faint of heart, this sprawling labyrinth is crammed with an eclectic (and often past-it) stash of everything you (n)ever need, from gold jewellery and stationery to household appliances. Don’t expect to leave within an hour; fully expect to get lost… go for a quintessential Little India experience. Open all hours.145 Syed Alwi Road, Little India, +65 6295 5855, open 24 hours, mustafa.com.sg
B. Murugan Idli Shop
Hit this unpretentious temple of South Indian fare that’s been flying the meat-free flag since well before it became a hashtag. Idli (steamed rice cakes) are their signature, but they also do a damn fine dosa, served with aromatic curries and sauces.
Tip: Around-the-clock menus have you covered for brekkie through to midnight; order the tiffins to sample an array of dishes.
76 Syed Alwi Road, Little India, +65 6298 0858, 9am-11pm daily, muruganidlishop.com
C. The General Co
Always fancied yourself an Alfie artisan? Then sign up for one of the workshops at this kooky crib to master leathercraft, woodwork, metalwork, printmaking and calligraphy. Private classes and work spaces available to hire. Kinfolk, eat your heart out.
Tip: See site for class times. Confusingly, also known as Tyrwitt General Co.
150 Tyrwhitt Rd, +65 8444 5589, hello@thegeneralco.sg, by reservation, thegeneralco.sg
D. Sifr Aromatics
Sultry, dim-lit ode to an olfactory high where perfumes are off the shelf or bespoke. Make an appt for a custom blend and carry it home in one of the divine antique flacons. Also stocks soy wax candles, essential oils and ethical incense.
42 Arab Street, +65 6392 1966, Mon & Tue by appointment only, 11am-8pm Wed-Sat, 11am-5pm Sun, sifr.sg
E. Julie Bakes
Arvo pick me up? Cake queen Julie’s fusion of trad halal ingredients and mod tastes will awaken your inner Mary Berry – if you’ve yet to sample one of her famous sweet-savoury, salted egg-yolk cupcakes, now’s your chance.
14 Baghdad Street, Kampong Glam, +65 9647 9027, midday-4pm or till sold out Tue-Sun, facebook.com/JULIEBakes.Cupcakes.Cakes.Delicacies
F. Komala Vilas
End the day with a feed by the family-run house of spice that’s been dishing up real-deal veggie fare for nigh on 50 years. Eat with your fingers to fit in.
Tip: Several branches in Little India; the Serangoon Rd outlet sells sweets too.76-78 Serangoon Rd, +65 62933664, 7am-10.30pm daily, komalavilas.com.sg/public/home
ManulifeMOVE has no association with any of the landmarks, dining venues, galleries or retailers included within this walking guide, selected by LUXE, and disclaims any liability as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.
Photo Credit: The General Co
