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Everything You Need to Know About Emerald Hill, a Peranakan Enclave
- Where is Emerald Hill?
- What are the main streets of Emerald Hill?
- How to Get to Emerald Hill
- What to Do in Emerald Hill
- Stroll through the heritage shophouses
- Visit the former Singapore Chinese Girls' School
- Explore notable residences
- Where to Eat and Drink in Emerald Hill
- Acid Bar
- Alleybar
- No.5 Emerald Hill
- Tea Bone Zen Mind
- Que Pasa
- Ice-Cold Beer
- FAQs
Just a step behind the buzz of Orchard Road, Emerald Hill feels like another world where history and culture breathe through its beautifully preserved Peranakan shophouses. I’ve been there several times so allow me to guide you through it.
With stories of old Singapore hidden behind every charming facade, it’s the perfect spot for a stroll through time before unwinding at a cosy bar, where the past and present blend over a perfect cocktail.
Where is Emerald Hill?
Emerald Hill is located just off Orchard Road, nestled between Cairnhill Road and Somerset Road.
What are the main streets of Emerald Hill?
The main streets of the historic Emerald Hill neighbourhood are Emerald Hill Road and Saunders Road, where you’ll find a charming collection of colourful Peranakan shophouses and lively bars, all within walking distance from Somerset MRT station.
How to Get to Emerald Hill
Closest MRT: To get to Emerald Hill by train, take the MRT to Somerset Station (NS23) on the North-South Line. From there, it’s just a short 3-minute walk. Exit the station onto Orchard Road, and you’ll find the entrance to Emerald Hill directly across the street, next to Orchard Gateway.
Closest bus station: Alight at the Somerset Station bus stop (B09038) on Orchard Road, served by buses like 7, 14, 16, 36, 65, and 111. From the bus stop, it’s a quick 2-minute walk across Orchard Road to the entrance of Emerald Hill.
By car: Parking near Emerald Hill includes the Orchard Central and 313@Somerset car parks, both just a short walk away. There are also HDB car parks on Cuppage Road and limited street parking on Emerald Hill Road, though these can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Checking availability beforehand is recommended.
What to Do in Emerald Hill
Stroll through the heritage shophouses
Location: Peranakan Place Complex, 180 Orchard Rd
For the best photo ops, stop near Peranakan Place, the preserved row of shophouses along Emerald Hill Road, to capture the vibrant character of this historic enclave.
Look out for details like the pastel-coloured walls, decorative motifs, and unique fretwork that reflect a blend of Chinese, Malay, and European influences (and which are quite Instagrammable).
Visit the former Singapore Chinese Girls’ School
Media from keep37emeraldhill
Location: 37 Emerald Hill Road
Hours: Site tour by appointment (www.scgs.edu.sg or contact +65 6252 7966)
At 37 Emerald Hill, you’ll find the site of the original Singapore Chinese Girls’ School, a historic institution that played a pivotal role in the education of Peranakan girls in the early 20th century.
Founded in 1899, this school was among the first to provide formal education to Chinese girls in Singapore, offering them opportunities beyond traditional roles. Though the school has since relocated, its former location remains a significant landmark.
Explore notable residences
Media from trinefroelich
Location: 39, 41, and 45 Emerald Hill Road
As you explore Emerald Hill, keep an eye out for notable shophouses turned residences like No. 39, 41, and 45, each with its own unique story and architectural charm.
These historical buildings feature distinct Peranakan details, from intricate floral motifs and colourful ceramic tiles to wooden shutters and decorative columns. No. 39, for instance, is known for its ornate facade, while No. 41 and 45 stand out with their elegant baroque-style elements and vibrant pastel colours.
Where to Eat and Drink in Emerald Hill
1. Acid Bar
Media from acidbarsg
Address: 180 Orchard Rd, Peranakan Place Complex
Contact: [email protected]
Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 5 PM–1 AM
Friday, 3 PM–2 AM
Saturday, 11 AM–2 AM
Sunday, 11 AM–1 AM
Pricing: $$
For drinks at Acid Bar, I always go for its happy hour before 8 PM. I always order the passionfruit martini, which goes well with the truffle fries and soft shell crab bites.
I also love the Friday live band, which makes after-work unwinding extra special. Moreover, it helps that the staff offers a little treat if you make a reservation rather than walking in.
2. Alleybar
Address: 2 Emerald Hill Rd, Peranakan Place Complex
Contact: [email protected]
Hours:
Sunday to Thursday, 5 PM–1 AM
Friday to Saturday, 5 PM–2 AM
Pricing: $$
I hit Alleybar for happy hour on a Saturday, and the vibe was great—modern yet cosy. The place buzzed with friendly chatter and the smell of fresh cocktails and yummy truffle fries.
The staff is super helpful, and you can easily choose from beers, wines, or classic cocktails. I highly recommend a couple of must-try items including the signature negroni and passionfruit mojito.
3. No.5 Emerald Hill
Media from no5emeraldhill
Address: 5 Emerald Hill Road
Phone: +6567320818
Hours: Daily, noon–3 AM
Pricing: $$
No.5 Emerald Hill is stunning inside and out, but I love chilling on the patio with the shophouse facade in view. Inside, the dim red lighting, bare concrete walls, and quirky steps give it a cosy, offbeat feel.
If you snag a bar seat, you’ll spot plaques of regulars and watch food baskets being pulled up past Chinese lanterns.
The bar boasts an impressive selection of spirits, and the bartenders can whip up just about any cocktail.
4. Tea Bone Zen Mind
Media from teabonezenmind
Address: 18 Jln Lada Puteh
Phone: +6563344212
Hours:
Monday to Tuesday, 11 AM–7 PM
Thursday to Saturday, 11 AM–7 PM
Pricing: $$
Tea Bone Zen Mind offers a unique tea experience in a gorgeous antique house. The place serves traditional imported teas with perfectly paired snacks, and its beautifully packaged tea wares make great gifts.
The staff shares stories about each tea and dish, adding to the overall experience. Do note that visits are strictly by reservation.
5. Que Pasa
Media from quepasasg
Address: 7 Emerald Hill Road
Phone: +6562356626
Hours: Daily, 3 PM–2 AM
Pricing: $$
Que Pasa has a laid-back vibe that feels like stepping into an old-world wine bar. The dim lighting and rustic wooden decor make it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.
I recommend trying the garlic prawns and chorizo croquettes, a combo that’s a great balance of bold flavours and textures. Pair them with a glass of their house red, and you’re in for a treat!
6. Ice-Cold Beer
Address: 9 Emerald Hill Road
Phone: +6567359929
Hours: Daily, 3 PM–2 AM
Pricing: $$
Ice-Cold Beer feels like home the moment you walk in! With a killer drink selection, awesome 80s and 90s tunes, darts, and a fun beer-drinking challenge among regulars, it’s a blast.
I ordered the mini-burgers, with juicy patties and soft buns, which were perfect bite-sized indulgences to pair with the smooth, well-crafted martinis. There was also whiskey, which delivered that warm, rich finish every good night deserves.
