Haji Lane in Singapore is a colorful street that feels miles away from the slick, commercialised shopping malls around the country. Instead, it feels organic and is full of quirky and interesting little shops that invite exploration.
Haji Lane is located at the fringe of Kampong Gelam, a historic district in Singapore that is known for its Malay roots. Even though it is just one street away from another popular street, Arab Street, it feels like a secret little enclave with a culture all its own.
The narrow lane is lined on both sides by shophouses. Quaint, bespoke businesses occupy the shop spaces, bringing their own individual style to the mix of retail and restaurants along Haji Lane.
In the evening, Haji Lane takes on a different vibe. Traffic is shut off from the street and many flock to its restaurants and bars to unwind into the evening.
Haji Lane in Singapore is definitely a must-visit spot for those who are visiting the island nation. It shows off a different side of the country, one that one may not expect.
Here’s a flavor of the businesses and spots that you can experience along Haji Lane.
What to See, Do & Eat along Haji Lane, Singapore
Hygge
This cute shop at the junction of Haji Lane with North Bridge Road sells accessories like earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces and headbands. It is run by a husband and wife team. We like that there are Singapore designs within the shop as well. Get a key chain of Little India or the shophouses of Katong as a souvenir to take home memories of your time in Singapore. If not, pick up some inspirational home decor items to brighten up your home as well.
Where: 672 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188803
Website
Drunken Balloon
If you appreciate toys and collectibles, pay a visit to Drunken Balloon. The shop has an eclectic mix of toys and party supplies. You can pick up a Happy Birthday balloon and also admire a collection of toys that include Chucky, Astro-boy and Spider-man at the same time. But then again, this is Haji Lane.
Where: 82 Haji Lane, Singapore 189272
Website
Bears & Friends
Got a sweet tooth for gummies? Bears & Friends has you covered. Bears & Friends has been in business since 1995 and stocks over 80 flavors imported from Germany – from the classics to the unusual – at their flagship store at Haji Lane. Head over to the fruit gummies specialty shop for a “beary” good gummy bear experience. Read more about Bears & Friends.
Where: 78 Haji Lane, Singapore 189270
Website
Rumi The Poet’s Cup
Chill out at this hip cafe along Haji Lane that specialises in artisanal drinks along with desserts like ice cream, brownies and waffles. If you wish to while away some time, there are also card games and board games in the store too. Some of the recommended drinks here include the Salted Caramel Macchiato or the Rumi Teh Tarik. Who knows, a sip may just bring out the poet in you.
Where: 64 Haji Lane, Singapore 189257
Website
Selfie Cafe
Fancy of coffee with your picture in latte art? Take a selfie photo and send it over to have it printed out on the your coffee. You will get two Polaroid photos with each selfie drink. There are also other customizable items within the store such as a customizable mug.
Where: 57 Haji Lane, Singapore 189250
Shalaby Sweets
For sweet Turkish and Arabic treats, head over to Shalaby Sweets. Indulge in sweet desserts like Turkish delight and baklava packed full with pistachios. You can also get different flavors like fig and almond baklava as well as kunafa. These are air flown from Turkiye and offered over the counter at this small Haji Lane shop. Pick up a few and have them on the go or for later.
Where: 54 Haji Lane, Singapore 189247
Website
Coffee Donkee
For hand brewed coffee using selected bean specially flown in from Japan each week, head down to Coffee Donkee. The vibe here is all about slow living and you can slow down and watch as your coffee drip brews into the perfect cup. It is also a place where you can pick up your own bag of coffee beans to bring back to brew at your own leisure too.
Where: 51 Haji Lane, Singapore 289244
Website
The French American Bakery
Located just beside Coffee Donkee is The French American Bakery. Don’t be surprised to see long lines that snake out on to the five foot way in front of the shop. The bakery is known for its cakes, cookies and other pastries. It is also making a buzz for its Hot Chocolate with Torched Marshmallow Fluff. The Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée with its signature caramelised sugar crust and luscious custard infused with Tahitian vanilla bean is pretty good too. So, join the queue and see what the fuss is all about at this Haji Lane bakery.
Where: 49 Haji Lane, Singapore 189242
Website
Black Sheep & Co
For something a bit stiffer, park yourself at Black Sheep & Co where you can get some grilled food and wash it down with a selection of craft beers at this cosy watering hole. Some of the beers available at Black Sheep & Co include Brewdog’s Hazy Jane, Brewdog’s Black Heart and Punk IPA.
Where: 26 Haji Lane, Singapore 189219
Ultraman Mural
On the side of the shophouse where Black Sheep & Co is located is a colourful mural that features the Japanese character Ultraman. He looks over the alleyway with a monster in the distance, ready for combat. With its vibrant colors, the mural is a popular spot to take a picture.
Where: Alley next to 26 Haji Lane, Singapore 189219
Type8ar
A museum full of typewriters where you can bang away at will? That’s what Type8ar offers. Jam out at this typewriter museum on the second floor of a shophouse. However, you may need to make an appointment first before heading down.
Where: 7A Haji Lane, Singapore 189200
Website
Aztec Mural
At the Beach Road end of Haji Lane, you will find another colourful mural. This one features colorful Aztec figures and it is another popular spot for those visiting this narrow street to have their picture taken.
There are also other bars, restaurants and eateries at Haji Lane, but I’ll leave that for you to explore when you pay a visit to this iconic part of Singapore. Don’t miss out and be sure to put Haji Lane on your Singapore itinerary.
While in Singapore, you may also enjoy visiting Bird Paradise in Mandai, Plantation Plaza in Tengah or you can read about the difference between Cloud Forest and Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay.
