When we mention Tanjong Pagar, what crosses your mind is probably the boring old Central Business District (CBD). If you think that there is nothing to explore here, then you are wrong! Apart from the rich history behind this area, there's plenty of things one could do here. We are also here to include a guide for our Muslim brothers and sisters when visiting Tanjong Pagar. So put on your walking shoes, and let's start exploring!
What used to be a fishing village, Tanjong Pagar has now developed into a bustling city with skyscrapers and commercial centers. Despite being urbanized, you can still spot remnants of the past tucked in the nooks and crannies of the area.
Tanjong Pagar station lies on the East-West Line of the MRT track. Among the high-rise office buildings and swarms of office workers, there’s plenty for you to do and see here.
Disclaimer: Singapore is currently in Phase 3 of the COVID-19 situation. Some of the activities/places mentioned might be affected in one way or another. This article is correct at the time of writing.
Credit: Mad Bro SG
Or early lunch if you want to avoid the office crowd. This Muslim-Owned hawker stall lets you choose between a bowl of ramen or a bowl of curry rice. Enjoy this delicious meal starting from SGD5.90 before you start on your adventure. You can also add in some extras like seasoned egg or miso to complete your meal.
Address: Tanjong Pagar Plaza, Block 6, #02-03, Singapore 081006
Operation hours Mon-Fri, 10 am to 4 pm; Saturdays, 11 am to 5 pm; Closed on Sundays.
Getting there: 3 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station.
Credit: Big Bowl Projects
Tanjong Pagar housed another hawker center and, that is the Amoy Street Food Center. These Muslim-owned hawker stalls open during the lunch hour to cater to the office crowd. So, if you do choose to eat here, brace yourself for the lunch crowd.
Big Bowl Projects caters poke bowls, mainly with salmon! With unique flavors to choose from, this affordable salmon bowl is a great option to savor some filling Japanese food. Choose from flavors like Mentaiko Salmon Bowl or the Truffle Oil Salmon Bowl. These bowls promise tender and delicious salmon meat, with a portion of cherry tomatoes and cucumber.
Unit Number: #02-90
Operating hours: Mon-Fri, 11 am to 1:30 pm
Credit: Mama's Boy Bakes
Mama's Boy Bakes is another Muslim-owned stall you can find here. It's a heaven for every mac & cheese lover because that is what Mama's Boy Bakes caters to! Go for their Truffle Mac & Cheese or the Korean Mac & Cheese, where you can choose between spicy and non-spicy versions. Don't forget to add in the Ondeh-Ondeh Bombshells, a dessert that will complete your lunch!
Unit Number: #02-87
Operating hours: Tue-Fri, 11 am - 3 pm.
Address: 7 Maxwell Rd, Amoy Street Food Centre, Singapore 069111
Credit: Swee Heng 1989 Classic
The smell of freshly baked goods and delicious looking buns would open your appetite (well, at least for me!) There is definitely no room for you to skip or forget your meal when there is Swee Heng.
Whether you are starting your adventure early or want to bring some bites along, drop by Swee Heng 1989 Classic at Guoco Tower. I'm pretty sure there is something you would love here!
Address: 7 Wallich Street, Guoco Tower, #B2-33, Singapore 078884
Operation hours Mon-Fri, 7 am to 9 pm; Sat, Sun and Public Holidays, 9 am to 6 pm.
Credit: MUIS
Haji Muhammad Salleh Mosque is tucked in the CBD area and has had its doors open for Muslims to perform their prayer since 1902. A surau was built by Haji Muhammad Salleh for his friend, Keramat Habib Noh, to pray in ease as Habib Noh always frequented Mount Palmer to pray in seclusion. The surau has been demolished and replaced with the Haji Muhammad Salleh Mosque.
Habib Noh was one of the well-known Wali Allah (Islamic saints) in South East Asia. He is the direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, respected by both the Muslim and Non-Muslim community. The Makam now lies on top of Mount Palmer, and has attracted pilgrims from all around the world. On every last day of the Islamic month Rabiul Akhir, a haul will be held (Habib Noh's death anniversary.)
Address: 37, Palmer Road Singapore 079424
Getting there: Approximately 9 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station via Prince Edward Rd.
Credit: Zairon via Wikimedia Commons
Some remnants of history left behind can be viewed along Neil Road. These shophouses were some of the oldest buildings here in Singapore. In present times, they are used for various purposes like commercials. Whether you’re a shutterbug, or just want to admire some architecture, Neil Road is the place to be.
While you're at it, look for Jinrikisha Station, a building built in 1903 as a depot for rickshaws. You might also spot the building where the first Tiger Balm Factory was.
Getting there: 8 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station to get to Neil Road.
Credit: Visit Singapore
Pinnacle@Duxton is a 50-story high residential building, the world's tallest public residential building to date. It also features two sky gardens that are the longest to ever exist on a skyscraper.
The sky gardens can be found at level 26 and level 50 of the building. The level 26 sky garden is only accessible for residents as it is a refuge floor in case of a fire outbreak. Meanwhile, residents as well as members of the public are open to visit the level 50 sky garden. You can enjoy the view of the city here from 9 am to 9 pm daily.
As the sky gardens are part of a housing estate, please be respectful and abide by all rules of the building. An entrance fee of $6 is imposed to limit the number of people accessing the sky garden and safety purposes.
Address: 1 Cantonment Rd, Singapore 085301
Getting there: 9 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station.
Credit: @wanderlostlounge
If you are giving the sky garden at the Pinnacle@Duxton a pass, how about hanging out at the Wanderlost Lounge? Nothing can beat the idea of lounging at a rooftop bar, spending your lazy nights away. What's more, this rooftop bar is Muslim-Owned! In fact, it is the first in the world!
Everything here is inspired by fairy tales and books, from its menu to its decor. Enjoy a glass of non-alcoholic mocktail while indulging in the views and relaxing ambiance. For a fun night out with friends, enjoy your catch-up session over a board game. And don't forget to snap a photo or two to update your social media!
Address: Realty Centre, 15 Enggor Street #12-01, 079716
Operating hours: Mon-Fri, 5:30 pm - 11 pm; Saturdays, 5 pm - 11 pm; Sundays, 5 pm - 10:30 pm.
Getting there: 5 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station.
Credit: @leeksk
Who could say no to a night of Prata and some hot tea? Head down to Akbar 24 Hours Restaurant, order some of your favorite Prata along with a cup of hot Teh Tarik – an ideal supper time along with a small company of friends. If you are looking for something heavy, you can opt for a plate of Fried Mee, Bee Hoon, or Kway Teow.
Address: 2 Lim Teck Kim Rd, Singapore 088933
Getting there: 6 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT Station.
Credit: Hotel Soloha
Okay, I don't really mean a last-minute booking because what are the chances that you can get a room? But if you want to be near to the activities listed above, then why not plan for a stay at Hotel Solaha?
Hotel Soloha is nestled between the shophouses, bringing you closer to the bustling streets. You can opt either for their standard rooms or the deluxe, and you'll be awed by the chic designs that also promise a good night's sleep. If you are looking to indulge in a more luxurious stay, go for the outdoor suite. You can enjoy gazing at the night sky in your private outdoor space!
Address: 12 Teck Lim Rd, Singapore 088387
Getting there: 9 mins walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT station via Craig Rd.
