Hidden bookstores in Singapore make perfect sanctuaries from the outside world. Tucked away in Armenian Street is Bommoi, a Korean picturebook store reminiscent of Hyunam-Dong Bookshop, a popular novel written by a Korean author.
Browse through a range of books in Korean and poetry collections, cosy up at the hanbok-style seats, and order up an iced tea with traditional snacks.
Image credit: @daily.self.motivating via Instagram
If you’re looking for Korean picture books, adult fiction, and poetry collections, Bommoi Bookstore is where it’s at. The store specialises in titles and picturebooks done by Korean authors and illustrators respectively. Some of the titles we’ve seen include Dirty Work and Belonging To The Brand.
Image adapted from: @atsomepoint_strong via Instagram
But if you don’t understand Korean, don’t worry – you can also find a few English titles here.
Image credit: @2eightytwo via Instagram
And if words don’t appeal to you, Bommoi has stationery and eclectic accessories for sale too – making the perfect gift for your K-pop-obsessed friends.
Image credit: Thin Thiri Soe via Google Maps
The seats are modelled after Korean-style seating, with raised platforms and cushions for you to plonk on. Feel free to purchase a book from the bookstore and spend an hour or two reading here.
If you need a beverage after burying your nose in the books, there’s an in-house cafe at Bommoi. There’s an extensive menu featuring a range of Korean tea blends (from $6) and coffee (from $5.50).
If you need something refreshing for the heat, order up some iced drinks like Jeju Tangerine Herb Tea ($9.50) and Goheung Yuzu Rooibos Tea ($9.50).
Image adapted from: @walkbysunlight via Instagram
For the full experience, pair it with the small bite of the day ($4), which usually is a selection of traditional Korean snacks such as yakgwa (Korean honey cookies).
Those with young ones in tow, can chek out the kids snack tray set ($7.50) which comes with a drink and 4 snacks.
Image credit: @daily.self.motivating via Instagram
Bommoi Bookstore is located across the road from SMU and opposite the Peranakan Museum, in the City Hall area. If you’re taking public transport, it’s a 7-minute walk from City Hall MRT and 12 minutes from Clarke Quay station.
Sure, there are plenty of online bookstores that ship to Singapore, but there’s just something nostalgic about spending time in a physical bookstore. The next time you have a free afternoon, head on down to Bommoi Bookstore. After which, check out the Peranakan Museum while you’re there.
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