When you hear the words ‘trendy’ or ‘up-and-coming’ neighbourhood in Singapore, Bras Basah might not be the first location most Singaporeans think of first. As one of the oldest districts in the country, Bras Basah has made itself known as the arts and heritage district of Singapore’s civic centre. What started off as a simple planning suburb back in the early 1800s has now evolved as a hub for our arts institutions and a centre for eclectic local businesses. While not as flashy as the neighbouring Bugis or the Civic District, Bras Basah is a humbler, transient space that connects the two neighbourhoods together, playing an equally important role. Hence, Men’s Folio has put together a quick guide to Bras Basah — highlighting some of the quirks and features of the sprouting area.
What To Visit & Do:
Basheer Graphic Books
Photo Credits: Juliana Tan Studio via Design Singapore Council
Location: 231 Bain St, #04-19, Singapore 180231
Opening Hours: 10AM – 8PM
SG60/CDC Voucher Applicable: Yes
Ask anyone creative-adjacent what their favourite bookstore is and they’ll answer swifly: Basheer Graphic Books. Being in the game since the 90s, people of all likes go to Basheer for their dosage of widespread genres, everything from all-things-architecture to photography books or international magazine publications that are exclusively stocked at Basheer. ‘The People’s Bookseller’ is one term many will agree with. For years, Basheer has adapted to the times and at points, an active participant in the youth culture here in Singapore, being an event space for daytime parties and the likes. Basheer Graphics is also applicable for SG60 Vouchers, so bonus points if you don’t want to fork out cash to pay.
Objectifs Centre
Location: 155 Middle Rd, Singapore 188977
Opening Hours: 12PM-7PM
Established as a non-profit visual arts centre centering film and photography, Objectifs has been around since 2003. Functioning as a youth incubation space and exhibition centre, you can find lots of events happening throughout the year, such as the annual Singapore Youth Film Festival, held at the Chapel Gallery. Off season, you can shop at the store selling a variety of zines, DVDs and merchandise made by local Singaporean artists.
Kwang Guan Watch & Pen
Location: 231 Bain St, #01-37, Complex 180231
Opening Hours: 11AM-7PM
SG60/CDC Voucher Applicable: Yes
Founded in 1961, Kwang Guan Watch & Pen is one of Singapore’s oldest watch stores. Currently ran by two sisters and two brothers, the business started off by selling timepieces and repair services, before branching out to stationery and typewriters. You can find a variety of brands from your classic schoolboy Casio watches to your higher end Tissot timepieces.
Kizuki + LIM
Location: 31 Seah St, Singapore 188387
Opening Hours: 12PM-9PM
When the LIM (Less Is More) Group first landed in Singapore in 2009, little they would know that they would be one of the influencing drivers in style and culture in the country 16 years going on. Known for their ragtag crew of eclectic stylists and equally eccentric hair services, their Seah Street location has become a go-to for young creatives. With haircuts starting at $50, you can consider Kizuki + LIM if you’re ever feeling like you want a total transformation.
What To Eat & Drink:
Kurasu
Location: 261 Waterloo Street #01-24, Singapore 180261
Opening Hours: 830AM-630PM
SG60/CDC Voucher Applicable: Yes
Located in a small open corridor at Waterloo Centre lies Kurasu, a cafe best known for serving specialty Japanese coffee straight from their roastery in Kyoto. Kurasu has earned a cult following among enthusiasts in Singapore, even offering merchandise from specialty beans to brewing gear for the budding coffee hobbyist. Their menu spans from a cup of espresso to a glass of matcha latte that you can additionally purchase with your SG60 Vouchers.
Narrative Coffee Stand
Location: Blk 231 Bain St, #01-05, Complex 180231
Opening Hours: 8AM-5PM
SG60/CDC Voucher Applicable: Yes
In a small nook facing Bain Street is where you’ll find Narrative Coffee Stand, a simple, minimalist space that serves all of your coffee needs.
Rochor Original Beancurd
Location: 2 Short St, Singapore 188211
Opening Hours: 1030AM-1130PM
Rochor Original Beancurd is a reminder of the legacy and history of the Bras Basah district. What began in the 1950s as a dessert pushcart has now evolved to a sweet (and also very salacious) legacy that many Singaporeans reminicise and come back to from time to time. From their fresh tauhuay to their dough stick pasteries, this is a must try for those who haven’t.
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