Hidden Gems in Singapore

  The Book Café: A Cozy Spot to Read, Study, and Eat! Tucked away in a quiet corner of Robertson Quay, The Book Café feels like one of those rare places in Singapore where time actually slows down. I ended up there on a weekday afternoon, just looking for somewhere to read and get a bit of work done—and ended up staying way longer than planned. With soft lighting, comfy couches, and shelves lined with books, it’s got a warm, lived-in vibe that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. What I really liked about it is how laid-back everything feels. There’s no pressure to rush or give up your seat. People were working on laptops, flipping through novels, catching up with friends, or just sipping their coffee quietly. It’s not dead silent, but it’s not loud either—it’s that perfect in-between hum that makes it ideal for studying or working if you like peaceful places that still have a bit of life to them. You won’t feel like you’re in a library, but you also won’t be distracted by...

  Pantler: A Quiet Spot for Thoughtful Treats I first stumbled across Pantler while looking for a place to grab a last-minute gift on the way to a friend’s dinner party. I ended up picking out a few of their cream puffs and a yuzu cheesecake, and honestly, I kind of regretted not keeping one for myself. Since then, it’s become a spot I return to whenever I want a little treat—or when I need to impress someone with a dessert that feels fancy without trying too hard. The vibe inside Pantler is calm and clean, with soft lighting and a modern look that doesn’t feel cold. It’s the kind of place where you can sit down for a quiet coffee, get some reading done, or just take a breather from the city. I’ve popped in a few times on slower weekend afternoons just to enjoy a pastry and chill for a bit, and it’s always a reliably peaceful experience. My go-to order is the cream puff and a long black—the puff is crisp on the outside, filled with light, just-sweet-enough cream, and pairs perfe...

  Silk Walk: A Minimalist Gem for Thoughtful Gifts I first discovered Silk Walk while browsing Etsy for unique, handcrafted items. One of their wooden jewellery trays caught my eye, and after a little digging, I was pleasantly surprised to find out the brand is actually based in Singapore. Since then, Silk Walk has become one of my favorite hidden gems, especially when I’m looking for gifts that feel both personal and well-made. The pieces are clean, elegant, and made from quality materials like walnut and maple wood. They strike that perfect balance between useful and beautiful—whether it's a tray for everyday essentials or a coaster that doubles as a phone stand. I recently took a trip to California and brought a few of Silk Walk’s pieces along as gifts—including a mug that came with the cutest little glass gingerbread man inside. Every time I gave one, the reaction was the same: “Where is this from?” There’s something really heartwarming about gifting something that’s both cha...

  Tanglin Mall: A Quiet Classic with Hidden Gems Inside Tanglin Mall doesn’t try to be the trendiest place in Singapore—but that’s exactly what makes it special. Tucked just off the edge of Orchard Road, this older mall offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative to the big, flashy shopping centers. It might not look like much from the outside, but inside, you’ll find a curated mix of unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and one-of-a-kind stores that make it a hidden gem for those who like to shop slow. The overall vibe is calm. You won’t find huge crowds or loud music here. It’s more of a neighborhood mall—the kind of place where people come to browse, grab a bite, or hunt for something a little different. If you’re someone who enjoys peaceful afternoons of exploring without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this place is worth checking out. One of the highlights is the boutique scene . Tanglin Mall is home to a number of small, independent stores you won’t find in bigger malls. Shops li...