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Singapore’s vibrant Joo Chiat Road, nestled within the historical Katong district, has been officially named one of the world’s most dynamic thoroughfares, securing the ultimate spot for Singapore on the prestigious 2025 “Coolest Streets in the World” list. This global accolade, determined by the annual Time Out Index based on insights from local writers and editors alongside feedback from over 27,000 global city-dwellers, celebrates the street’s irresistible fusion of heritage architecture and contemporary culture, driven recently by a surge of exciting new independent businesses and experiential pop-ups.

The Recipe for Cool: Heritage Meets Hyper-Local

Joo Chiat’s recognition stems from its ability to perfectly encapsulate both Singapore’s rich history and its forward-looking urban energy. Characterized by its striking, vibrantly colored Late-style shophouses dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, the street offers a tangible connection to the past while remaining a vibrant hub for modern lifestyle trends.

This unique atmosphere has consistently drawn a crowd, but a recent flurry of new establishments has further cemented its status. Fresh arrivals like Heartware Store and Gallery, a second-floor art space hosting rotating exhibitions, and diverse culinary ventures such as the fast-casual sandwich shop Don’t Runaway and the delectable Bastille Bakery, complement the existing strong lineup of quirky brands and local favorites. These newcomers contribute to a dynamic ecosystem where visitors can uncover something new around every corner.

A Culinary and Retail Renaissance

The street’s appeal spans from thoughtful retail to groundbreaking gastronomy. Shoppers can explore slow fashion at rye, browse finely crafted furniture within the gorgeous Art Deco building of Grafunkt, or pick up premium home goods at Sojao.

The café culture is equally robust, offering dizzying choices for coffee aficionados. Well-loved spots like Common Man Coffee Roasters effortlessly transform into the natural wine bar Drunken Farmer at sundown, reflecting the versatile, day-to-night appeal of the district. Pop-up markets and community events frequently hosted at spaces like Crane also ensure the street maintains a continuous influx of novelty and engagement.

Preserving the Past, Embracing the New

While new businesses thrive, Joo Chiat powerfully retains its connection to its heritage, offering an essential counter-balance to the modern influx. Visitors seeking a taste of authentic local life can find it in the street’s long-standing culinary institutions and traditional shops.

Heritage Highlights include:

• Mr and Mrs Mohgan Super Crispy Roti Prata: Famous for its perfectly crispy flatbread.
• Sin Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh: Serving warming, traditional pork rib soup.
• Kway Guan Huat: A Joo Chiat icon since the 1930s, specializing in freshly rolled popiah (spring rolls).

Furthermore, shops like Teong Teng still practice the craft of old-school rattan furniture, while RetroCrates and A Vintage Tale cater to collectors with their selection of vintage items and analogue treasures.

Joo Chiat’s success highlights a global trend: the appreciation of authenticity over homogenization. Its rich blend of nostalgia and hyper-local, modern creativity delivers an unparalleled street experience, setting a high standard for vibrant urban centers worldwide.

Global Recognition

Joo Chiat secured the 14th spot globally, distinguishing itself among 15 streets recognized for their cultural importance and compelling vibe in 2025: Rua do Senado (Rio de Janeiro), Orange Street (Osaka), and Orchard Street (New York City). This ranking underscores the street’s international appeal and its role as a key destination in Singapore’s broader Katong district, inviting travelers to explore the neighborhood’s wider maze of vibrant alleys and side streets.

For a deeper dive into the district: Explore the ultimate guide to Katong and Joo Chiat for a comprehensive look at the area’s best offerings.

Joo Chiat Road in Singapore’s historic Katong district has secured a prestigious spot on the global list of the “Coolest Streets in the World” for 2025, a distinction determined by an extensive international survey conducted by Time Out. This vibrant thoroughfare, celebrated for its unique blend of heritage architecture and dynamic modern offerings, was recognized for capturing the contemporary essence of Singapore. The annual ranking, compiled from insights gathered from Time Out’s global editorial team and over 27,000 city dwellers worldwide, highlights streets that offer an energetic mix of culture, community, and cutting-edge venues.

A Perfect Fusion of Heritage and Hip

Located within the culturally rich Katong neighborhood, Joo Chiat Road stands out due to its compelling juxtaposition of tradition and trendy innovation. The street is lined with stunning Late-style shophouses, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by intricate facades and vibrant Peranakan-inspired colors. These architectural backdrops now house a lively ecosystem of businesses, from established eateries to rapidly emerging lifestyle concepts.

The editorial recognition stems from a recent surge in new openings, including independent boutiques, contemporary galleries, and diverse culinary ventures. Recent additions like Heartware Store and Gallery, a second-floor shophouse space featuring rotating artistic exhibitions, alongside new fast-casual and artisanal food spots like Don’t Runaway sandwich shop and Bastille Bakery, have injected new energy into the area. These join existing local favorites, creating a destination that rewards casual exploration.

The street’s appeal spans various interests, catering equally to those seeking authentic heritage and those chasing the latest trends:

Contemporary Culture & Retail

• Lifestyle Boutiques: Shoppers can browse homegoods at shops like Sojao, specializing in bedding, or explore thoughtfully designed furniture within the Art Deco building housing Grafunkt.
• Fashion & Vintage: Slow fashion is championed at stores like rye, while vintage enthusiasts can dig for analogue gems at establishments such as A Vintage Tale and RetroCrates.
• Café Scene: Joo Chiat is a prime destination for café-hopping, featuring popular venues like Humble Origins and Common Man Coffee Roasters, which transforms into the natural wine bar Drunken Farmer in the evenings.

Preserving Culinary and Craft Heritage

Despite the influx of modernity, Joo Chiat retains deep roots in Singaporean tradition. Traditional businesses continue to thrive alongside the newcomers:

• Iconic Eateries: Foodies flock to Mr and Mrs Mohgan Super Crispy Roti Prata for their famous flatbread, Sin Heng Claypot Bak Kut Teh for warming herbal pork rib soup, and Kway Guan Huat, an institution since the 1930s, for freshly rolled popiah (spring rolls).
• Traditional Crafts: Teong Teng maintains the legacy of crafting old-school furniture using rattan and bamboo.

Global Recognition and Local Context

Joo Chiat’s inclusion reaffirms Singapore’s dynamic urban landscape on the world stage. It ranked 14th globally, featuring alongside esteemed international locales such as Rua do Senado in Rio de Janeiro, Orange Street in Osaka, and Orchard Street in New York City.

The annual Index, which previously highlighted Singapore’s Bencoolen as one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods, focuses on the vibrancy, originality, and local appeal of a location. For Joo Chiat, the ability to seamlessly integrate its historic architecture and traditional Hawker culture with a dynamic wave of independent businesses and artistic venues cemented its status as a must-visit destination that encapsulates the current cultural zeitgeist.

Visitors are encouraged to venture beyond the main thoroughfare into the broader Katong district, a maze of side streets and alleyways offering equally vibrant discoveries, making a trip to Joo Chiat a full cultural immersion.

TOP 15 COOLEST STREETS IN THE WORLD FOR 2025 (Selected)

1. Rio de Janeiro: Rua do Senado
2. Osaka: Orange Street
3. Porto: Rua do Bonjardim
4. Chengdu: Fanghua Street
5. Montreal: Sherbrooke Street West
   …
6. Singapore: Joo Chiat
7. Mexico City: Avendia Alvaro Obregon

Singapore is gearing up for a triple dose of K-pop fever as Blackpink brings their highly anticipated Deadline world tour to the city-state this November. Ahead of the concert dates, the Singapore Sports Hub is rolling out a vibrant, three-day “Pre-Show Playground,” offering Blinks—the group’s dedicated fanbase—interactive zones, merchandise swaps, and stunning photo opportunities designed to amplify the concert experience. This dedicated fan activation space ensures attendees can fully immerse themselves in the world of Jennie, Lisa, Rosé, and Jisoo, transforming the venue into a pink-hued fan headquarters before the group takes the stage.

Immersive Fan Experience Transforms Kallang

The preparatory activities, designed to let fans create their own social media moments, are spread across key areas of the Sports Hub campus—including the National Stadium, Stadium Riverside Walk, Stadium MRT station, and the Kallang Wave Mall. Available through the final concert date on November 30, the centerpiece of the Pre-Show Playground are the striking pink interactive zones. These areas encourage Blinks to capture high-quality, “MV-worthy” photographs.

A massive, illuminated 3D Blackpink sign provides a stunning backdrop, especially when lit up at night, while a sizable 2.4-meter billboard offers another chance for fans to channel their inner K-pop superstar. These installations serve not just as pre-show entertainment, but as nodal points for community building, allowing fans arriving from across the region to connect.

The PinkSwap Zone: Gathering and Gear

A crucial element of the pre-concert festivities is the PinkSwap Zone, specifically operational on the three concert nights (November 28 to 30) between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. This dedicated area allows thousands of attendees to convene and participate in the cherished fan tradition of exchanging and sharing Blackpink merchandise.

The exchange zone offers a unique chance for Blinks to enhance their collections, potentially scoring rare, limited-edition memorabilia that might not be available through official retail channels in Singapore. This practice underlines K-pop fandom’s strong emphasis on community and reciprocal sharing.

Practical Tips for Concert Day

For international fans flying into Singapore specifically for the Deadline tour, the Singapore Sports Hub has introduced a highly useful logistical service. To prevent luggage from dampening the festive atmosphere, attendees can drop off their bags at the Sports Hub Visitor Centre by 7:30 p.m. on any of the three concert dates.

These items will subsequently be transferred to the baggage storage areas at Changi Airport’s Terminals 3 and 4 for seamless retrieval post-show. This arrangement removes the hassle of managing personal belongings during the high-energy event.

The successful rollout of extensive, fan-focused activations like the Pre-Show Playground reflects the growing trend among major international tour organizers to enhance the concert experience beyond the stage performance. By providing structured, engaging, and logistically sound opportunities for fans to gather, exchange, and celebrate their idols, the Singapore Sports Hub is ensuring that the highly anticipated Blackpink world tour leaves a lasting impression, cementing the city’s status as a key destination for global K-pop events. Complete details regarding the activations and specific operating times are available on the Singapore Sports Hub official event page.

As K-pop titans Blackpink prepare to electrify Singapore with their highly anticipated “Deadline” world tour, the Singapore Sports Hub is rolling out an immersive pre-show experience designed to maximize fan excitement. Ahead of the concert dates from November 28 to 30, the venue is hosting a “Pre-Show Playground,” offering Blinks—the group’s dedicated fanbase—interactive photo opportunities, merchandise swap zones, and unique logistical services, transforming the locale into a vibrant, pink-hued gathering spot.

Maximize Your Blackpink Concert Experience

The excitement surrounding Lisa, Jennie, Rosé, and Jisoo’s consecutive three-night run at the National Stadium has turned the end of November into a major cultural moment for Singapore. To enhance the pre-concert fervor, the Singapore Sports Hub has strategically installed several Blackpink-themed activation zones across its campus, encouraging fans to gather, socialize, and create shareable content.

Key fan hotspots include the “Pre-Show Playground,” featuring eye-catching, striking pink photo installations perfect for replicating K-pop music video aesthetics. A central attraction is the mammoth 3D Blackpink signage, which provides a dramatic light-up backdrop after dark. Additionally, a prominent 2.4-meter billboard offers fans the opportunity to literally step into a spotlight moment, channeling their favorite idol before the main event. These interactive zones are spread across the National Stadium perimeter, the Stadium Riverside Walk, the Stadium MRT station area, and the Kallang Wave Mall, remaining open through November 30.

Merchandise Swaps and Essential Fan Logistics

Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the Sports Hub is facilitating fan networking and merchandise acquisition through the dedicated “PinkSwap Zone.” Operating daily from 12 pm to 6 pm on the concert dates (November 28 to 30), this designated area allows Blinks to exchange and trade official and unofficial memorabilia. For collectors, the swap zone presents a prime opportunity to score rare items that might not be widely available in Singapore.

For international visitors traveling specifically for the concerts, the Singapore Sports Hub has partnered with local services to streamline luggage handling. Recognizing that bulky baggage can detract from the concert experience, the Sports Hub Visitor Centre offers a convenient drop-off service. On each of the three concert days, guests can deposit their travel bags by 7:30 pm, which are then securely transferred to baggage storage areas at Changi Airport’s Terminals 3 and 4 for subsequent pick-up. This bespoke service ensures fans can enjoy the pre-show activities and concert unencumbered.

These comprehensive pre-show activations not only build anticipation for the “Deadline” tour but also demonstrate the growing importance of experiential engagement surrounding blockbuster live music events. By addressing both the social and logistical needs of the fanbase, the Singapore Sports Hub ensures that the global phenomenon of Blackpink is celebrated with maximum impact and minimal stress. Fans are encouraged to check the official Sports Hub website for precise timings and location maps for all pre-show activities.

Singapore’s Changi Airport, already a perennial champion of global aviation, secured the inaugural World’s Best Airport Washrooms 2025 award from Skytrax, highlighting the city-state’s commitment to impeccable public hygiene and sophisticated design, a stark contrast to the global sanitation crisis acknowledged by World Toilet Day. This new accolade, based on extensive auditing of 235 airports worldwide, recognizes Changi’s restrooms for their exemplary cleanliness, innovative features, and luxurious aesthetic, reinforcing its status as a benchmark for the international travel experience.

The achievement underscores the importance of sanitation not just as a public health essential, but also as a key component of customer satisfaction in a world-class transit hub. While the United Nations annually observes World Toilet Day to address the crisis affecting billions without safe access to sanitation, Singapore residents benefit from a highly managed system of clean, readily available public facilities. Changi Airport elevates this standard, treating the washroom experience as an integral part of high-end travel.

According to the Skytrax assessment, which will incorporate customer feedback starting next year, Changi’s facilities stood out for several operational and design elements. Dedication to round-the-clock maintenance ensures the washrooms remain impeccably clean, earning major commendation for the airport staff. Beyond maintenance, the facilities boast thoughtful design that blends functionality with luxury.

Travelers are greeted by spa-like environments, featuring premium finishes like marble flooring and ambient lighting. Several washrooms incorporate distinctive local design elements, such as Peranakan aesthetics, and some even offer unexpected views of the tarmac. Subtle yet striking sensory details, including a faint orchid tea scent diffused throughout the areas, further enhance the experience.

Crucially, the design prioritizes the needs of contemporary travelers. Restrooms feature spacious stalls easily accommodating luggage, designated shelves and nooks for handheld personal items, and advanced amenities such as electronic bidets, ensuring maximum comfort and hygiene during transit.

Asia Dominates Global Washroom Rankings

The 2025 rankings reveal a significant trend: superior airport washroom design and maintenance are predominantly found in Asia. The entire Top 10 list of the world’s best airport washrooms is populated by Asian hubs, signaling the region’s intense focus on service quality and infrastructure excellence.

Top 10 Global Airport Washrooms 2025

1. Singapore Changi Airport
2. Tokyo Haneda Airport
3. Seoul Incheon International Airport
4. Bahrain International Airport
5. Hong Kong International Airport
6. Kansai International Airport
7. New Chitose Airport
8. Tokyo Narita Airport
9. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
10. Fukuoka Airport

Changi’s success in this specific category, alongside its continued victory for the overall World’s Best Airport title, demonstrates that attention to practical, often overlooked details like washroom quality significantly contributes to a world-leading travel experience. This dedication sets a new global standard for airport infrastructure, challenging other regional and international hubs to rethink hygiene and comfort as key competitive differentiators.

Singaporeans are gearing up for the final public holiday of the year, Christmas Day on Thursday, December 25, marking a welcome break following the Deepavali celebrations. This highly anticipated day off arrives just in time for a busy season filled with festive cheer, elaborate retail activations, and gastronomic experiences across the city-state. Though Christmas Day falls mid-week, strategic planning can easily convert this singular break into an extended holiday, perfect for maximizing both local festivities and quick regional getaways before the calendar year closes.

Making the Most of the Christmas Break

Unlike several of Singapore’s other key dates—including Hari Raya Puasa, Good Friday, Vesak Day, and Deepavali—Christmas Day does not automatically provide a four-day long weekend. However, employees can secure a much-needed extended respite. By utilizing just one to two days of annual leave around December 25, individuals can create a substantial break, potentially stretching until the New Year’s Day public holiday in early 2026. Securing these annual leave dates quickly is essential, as premium time-off slots are often quickly claimed by colleagues.

This timing is ideal for enjoying the full scope of Singapore’s year-end transformation. The city is currently alight with dazzling, themed decorative installations. Major attractions and retail hubs feature whimsical setups, from Sanrio’s lovable characters and elaborate Disney showcases at key locations like Changi Airport and Jewel, to the charming Mofusand cat displays dotted across 17 malls. Beyond the visual spectacles, specialized shopping events and bountiful festive menus offer ample opportunities for seasonal indulgence and gift-giving preparation.

Understanding Public Holiday Compensation in Singapore

For those whose occupational duties require them to work on December 25, it is crucial to understand the mandatory compensation provisions outlined in Singapore’s Employment Act. Employees required to work on a designated public holiday are entitled to one of three forms of remuneration:

• Time off in lieu.
• An additional day’s salary calculated at their ordinary rate of pay.
• Overtime pay, depending on the specifics of the employment contract and hours worked.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) offers a detailed online calculator to help workers accurately determine the compensation they are due, ensuring fair remuneration as required by law.

Planning Your Year-End Escape

For those fortunate enough to enjoy the free day, this is the perfect opportunity to lock in holiday plans. While many will immerse themselves in local attractions like the festive displays at Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay’s Christmas Wonderland, others might look further afield.

Consider these easy escape options:

• Quick Beach Getaways: Utilize the break for a short, rejuvenating trip to nearby tropical destinations.
• Nearby Road Trips: Explore hidden gems accessible by car from Singapore.
• Luxurious Staycations: Indulge in a premium hotel experience right in the city, enjoying world-class amenities and dining without the travel hassle.

The December 25 holiday serves as a vital last chance for rest and recuperation before the year closes. Whether staying local to enjoy the bright lights and festive cheer or jetting off for a quick refresh, proactive planning is key to maximizing this crucial time off. Furthermore, with Singapore’s public holiday schedule for 2026 already announced, offering six guaranteed long weekends, it is never too early to begin strategizing for the breaks ahead.

Singapore is preparing for an exhilarating weekend as the Festival International des Sports Extrêmes (FISE), the world’s premier urban sports celebration, takes over the city. This two-day high-octane event, featuring top-tier competitions and grassroots clinics in extreme street disciplines, is set for November 22 and 23 at the iconic Somerset Skate Park and the recently revitalized youth hub, *Scape.

This massive showcase brings together professional athletes and Olympic contenders from around the globe to perform in disciplines including BMX, skateboarding, rollerblading, and even breakdancing. For enthusiasts of action sports, whether lifelong fans or curious newcomers, FISE Singapore offers a rare opportunity to witness gravity-defying maneuvers and cutting-edge tricks up close.

Why FISE Matters to Singapore’s Youth Scene

FISE is recognized globally for popularizing action sports and fostering the next generation of talent. The choice of *Scape and Somerset Skate Park underscores Singapore’s dedication to cultivating youth culture and providing platforms for modern street arts. The festival itinerary goes beyond mere demonstrations, offering critical development opportunities:

• Professional Showcases: International champions will execute advanced routines, providing spectators with world-class entertainment.
• Skill Clinics: Novices and aspiring athletes can enroll in specialized clinics to receive direct coaching from industry professionals.
• Competitions and Challenges: More experienced local athletes can participate in highly competitive events, including “cash-for-tricks” battles, where precise execution is rewarded instantly.

The inclusion of breakdancing highlights the increasing recognition of street dance as a rigorous, competitive athletic discipline, often showcased alongside traditional action sports.

Local Talent Takes the Spotlight

Adding local flavor to the international lineup is Singapore’s own Chloe Chua, an eight-year-old inline skating prodigy. Despite her young age, Chua has already accumulated several medals competing internationally. FISE Singapore marks a significant milestone as it will be her debut performance on home soil. Spectators can expect the young athlete to display advanced flips and complex tricks, demonstrating the depth of local talent emerging in extreme sports.

Further enhancing the festival’s dynamic atmosphere, live DJs will be on hand throughout the weekend, spinning tracks to provide a continuous soundscape for the jaw-dropping athletic feats.

Attending the Extreme Sports Extravaganza

Admission to the FISE Singapore event is free for all spectators, ensuring maximum accessibility for the community. This open-gate policy allows anyone to experience the thrill of urban sports culture.

However, potential participants should note that fees may apply for those wishing to register for individual sports clinics and competitive contests. Interested parties are advised to visit the official FISE website for detailed schedules, registration links, and specific pricing information for instructional sessions.

As action sports continue to gain traction worldwide, particularly with the inclusion of disciplines like skateboarding and BMX in the Olympics, FISE Singapore serves as a vital cultural moment, cementing the city-state’s place on the map for international urban sporting events and inspiring a new generation of extreme athletes.

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• Filipino bakery Mary Grace to hold a Christmas pop-up in Singapore

As major book retailers retreat across Singapore, a tenacious new micro-bookstore, Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles, is proving that passion can outweigh square footage. Tucked into an unlikely corner of the bustling Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre, owner Maylin has opened what is likely the city-state’s smallest literary outpost, dedicated solely to the enduring magic of vintage and out-of-print children’s picture books.

The launch of Eliko comes at a precarious time for physical bookstores in Singapore. Increased operating expenses and the aggressive migration toward e-books and streaming have pressured long-standing institutions. In recent months, Singapore has seen the closure of the final physical outlets for both Epigram Books and Times Bookstores, alongside the significant downsizing of the flagship Kinokuniya location at Takashimaya. This trend suggests that launching a new literary venture might be a high-risk endeavor, yet idealistic entrepreneurs like Maylin are refusing to let the dedicated local book scene fade.

Finding Wonder in a 65-Square-Foot Space

Nestled within the dense maze of the Chinatown Complex, Eliko measures a mere 65 square feet, making it an intimate and highly curated haven for printed treasures. Maylin’s mission is clear, centered on the idea that “Picture books delight. Why should kids have all the magic? We grown-ups need wonder too.”

Far from a standard retail operation, Eliko specializes exclusively in vintage and rare picture books. These titles, spanning decades and often out of circulation, offer a potent dose of nostalgia and artistry for readers of all ages. Signaling the shop’s warm, DIY ethos, the storefront features hand-drawn cardboard signage and hand-lettered markers.

Beyond the books, guests will find shelves holding a rotating collection of collectible trinkets, including various art pieces, antique toys, and forgotten curios, all available for purchase.

Storytelling as Currency

Eliko offers a unique and highly personal approach to engaging its patrons. For customers seeking a quiet immersion in the collection, an hour-long reading session is available for an $8 fee, which includes a complimentary cup of coffee.

However, the shop’s most compelling feature is its alternative entry method: waiving the reading fee if the visitor chooses to share a story with Maylin. This inventive premise underscores the shop’s primary goal of nurturing community connection and fostering an appreciation for narratives, elevating the experience beyond a simple transaction. The goal, Maylin suggests, is to cultivate a space dedicated to sharing and celebrating the tactile joy of printed works.

In an economy increasingly dominated by digital giants and large-scale retail, small, purpose-driven ventures like Eliko demonstrate the resilience of niche interests and community-focused commerce. They remind Singaporean consumers that some experiences—like discovering a forgotten gem in a physical bookshop—cannot be replicated online.

Plan Your Visit

Eliko Picture Books & Collectibles is situated at Chinatown Complex, unit #01-079, 335 Smith Street. Given its micro-size and recent opening, the shop does not currently appear on Google Maps. Potential visitors are advised to refer to the official Instagram account, @eliko.sg, for the latest weekly opening hours and helpful directions.

The beloved Filipino bakery-café chain, Mary Grace, is officially set to open its first permanent international outlet in Singapore, marking a significant milestone for the brand known for its comforting, traditional bakes. Ahead of the anticipated café launch, local fans and food enthusiasts alike can snag a preview of the signature pastries through an exclusive online Christmas pop-up, commencing later this November 2025.

What began as a small bazaar stall helmed by a mother of five has blossomed into a ubiquitous culinary fixture across the Philippines. Mary Grace is celebrated for bringing home-style warmth and quality ingredients to classic Filipino desserts, making its expansion into the competitive Singapore market a highly awaited event.

Indulge in Festive Previews

While the specific details regarding the permanent café’s location and opening timeline remain under wraps, devotees can secure a taste of the brand’s most iconic offerings just in time for the year-end festive season. The online pop-up ensures access to these renowned pastries without the hassle of lengthy queues, a common occurrence during the chain’s previous limited engagements in the city-state.

The highlight of the pre-order event is a selection of Mary Grace’s perennial bestsellers:

• Soft Cheese Rolls: These fluffy, sweet rolls, priced at S$24.50 for a box of six, are famous for their rich, buttery texture and subtle cheese flavor.
• Traditional Ensaymadas: The classic Filipino brioche, generously topped with aged Edam cheese, is available for S$31.50 per set of six.

For those eager to sample the full range, the Signature Sampler Box offers a balanced mix, including four cheese rolls and three ensaymadas, priced at S$33.50.

Securing Your Order

Given the rapid sell-out rate of Mary Grace’s previous pop-ups, potential customers are strongly advised to act promptly.

Key Ordering Details:

| Action | Date/Requirement |
| — | — |
| Pre-Orders Open | November 21, 2025 (While stocks last) |
| Deliveries Begin | November 25, 2025 |
| Notice Required | Minimum two days’ notice for delivery fulfillment |

Prospective buyers can streamline their holiday planning—and potluck contributions—by aiming for the delivery waiver. Orders totaling S$70 and above qualify for complimentary delivery, providing an excellent opportunity to share these comforting confections with friends and family.

The success of the forthcoming official international store opening will hinge, in part, on the persistent demand demonstrated through these online teasers. Food industry analysts view Singapore as a crucial gateway for regional Asian brands seeking broader global recognition, particularly chains that offer culturally specific, high-quality artisanal products.

For ongoing news about the long-term cafe establishment and operational updates, enthusiasts should monitor Mary Grace Singapore’s official social media channels (@cafemarygrace.sg). The arrival of this storied bakery promises to enrich Singapore’s vibrant café scene with cherished Filipino flavors.

A decade-old fixture in Singapore’s most opulent retail destination, Rasapura Masters food court at Marina Bay Sands (MBS) has recently unveiled a significant renovation, transforming the casual dining space into a culinary nexus featuring five Michelin-recognized vendors alongside updated aesthetics inspired by the “Garden City.” Located in the Basement 2 level of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, this refreshed food hall continues its mission to provide accessible, high-quality dining options in an area dominated by luxury establishments, offering everything from local hawker favorites to international flavors.

Since its inception in 2010, Rasapura Masters has served as MBS’s answer to budget-friendly meals, historically curating essential Singaporean dishes like chicken rice and fishball noodles. The latest overhaul injects a new visual dimension, incorporating a design scheme that mirrors the adjacent Gardens by the Bay. This includes kinetic lighting installations, ripple-effect ceiling treatments, and a prominent LED screen showcasing the lush sights and sounds of the national gardens, creating an enhanced, immersive dining atmosphere.

Michelin Stars Land in the Food Court

The centerpiece of the revitalization, however, is the significant expansion of the culinary roster, specifically attracting several brands with Michelin accolades. Diners can now enjoy award-winning fare typically found in standalone venues, marking a notable shift towards democratization of fine hawker dining.

Among the new additions are several highly esteemed names:

• Da Shi Jia Big Prawn Mee: A Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient known for its robust prawn noodle soups and distinct fried prawn bee hoon. This marks the brand’s first venture into a food court setting.
• Nana Curry: Another Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee, serving their famous fish head curry.
• Indian Express: Operated by the former team behind the Michelin-starred restaurant Song of India, this stall offers authentic Thali meals and biryani.
• JC Seafood (by Jiao Cai Seafood): Making its food court debut, offering premium seafood dishes.
• Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang: A perennial favorite originating from Yishun Park Hawker Centre, offering its iconic preparation of the national dish.

Expanded Culinary Diversity

Beyond the newly arrived Michelin-recognized establishments, the renewed Rasapura Masters broadens its appeal with a diverse selection of international and local crowd favorites, ensuring a meal for every palate and price point.

The comprehensive array of offerings includes long-time favorites and new entrants such as Pepper Lunch Express, Nine Fresh (for Taiwanese desserts), R&B Tea (bubble tea), Kok Kee Wonton Noodle, and Thye Hong Hokkien Mee.

Crucially, the food court has addressed a previous gap in its menu by significantly integrating more international cuisine. New global options now available include Dingtele Shanghai Cuisine, Myeongdong Bunsik (Korean fare), Thai Dynasty, and Ali’s Grill Signature Western Cuisine. This expansion aims to serve the varied tastes of both international tourists and local patrons frequenting the prominent entertainment and shopping complex.

The Rasapura Masters revamp reinforces its enduring role as an essential dining alternative within Marina Bay Sands, elevating the food court experience through both sophisticated design and exceptional, affordable quality, proving that world-class dining recognition can thrive in a casual setting. The food court is located at 2 Bayfront Ave, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018972.