Short answer
Singapore's shophouse hotels, cafés, bars and restaurants cluster in conserved districts such as Chinatown, Telok Ayer, Club Street, Amoy Street, Keong Saik, Kampong Glam, Little India, Joo Chiat and Katong. Walk the streets to compare, and check current opening hours directly because venues change often.
Last reviewed November 2026. Rules and figures change; confirm with the named agency before acting.
Where to look, by street type
| Area | What you typically find | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Telok Ayer, Amoy, Club Street, Ann Siang | Restaurants, wine bars, cafés in converted shophouses | District 01–02 CBD |
| Keong Saik, Chinatown | Boutique shophouse hotels, bars and dining | District 01–02 CBD |
| Kampong Glam, Little India, Jalan Besar | Cafés, retail, hostels and boutique stays | District 07–08 City Fringe |
| Joo Chiat, Katong | Peranakan-influenced cafés and eateries | District 14–15 East |
What to look for
- Retained façade details, airwells and original tiles inside.
- Whether the shophouse is a licensed hotel, a hostel or a restaurant above shop level.
- Opening hours and booking rules, which change often.
Why restaurants can operate in shophouses
Food and beverage use needs the right approved use and licences. See our F&B licensing guide for how change of use and conservation interact.
Sources
- Singapore Tourism Board (STB) / Visit Singapore
- Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA)
- National Heritage Board (NHB)
General information only, not legal, planning or financial advice. Looking to buy or lease? See HDB shophouses or shophouses for rent.