New things to do at Bugis Street

Whether you identify as a Millennial, Gen Z-er, or Zillennial even, Bugis Street is sure to be full of fond memories such as getting affordable ’fits and snacks to munch on. And now that you’re an adult, it’s time to make this spot your hangout once again.

New additions are coming to Bugis Street such as restaurants, a new co-living option, and even a hotel catered to esports fans. Here’s the lowdown of what you can expect:

Easily accessible makan spots in the area

A huge upgrade is coming to the makan department with various eateries opening in the vicinity. Already beloved restaurants such as Ayam Penyet Ria and Mr. Burger have new outlets here. 

Apart from chicken, they also serve other smashed fried options like fish and beef.

If you’re not yet familiar, Ayam Penyet Ria serves up Indonesian smashed fried chicken that’s served with rice. However, true locals will tell you that the chicken isn’t the star of the show here; oftentimes, the chilli is what makes or breaks the dish. 

Mr. Burger, on the other hand, is here to satisfy your pasar malam cravings for Ramly burgers. They serve a thiccc and saucy version here, accompanied by sides like truffle, cheese, and curly fries. There are burger flavours inspired by other countries too. Think Thai tom yam and even a Chinese-style mala burger.

Diners can choose grilled fish flavours like tomato and mushroom, as well as add on ingredients like lotus root, potato, and winter melon to the dish.

Then there are the newcomers foodies will surely be excited about, like Xiang Cao Kitchen that just opened its doors at Bugis Street. It’s all about grilled fish here, where you can get individual portions from $9.90, so there’s no need to bicker over flavour choices and spice levels. You can even get your fix of traditional Fujianese and Sichuanese dishes here.

Coming soon as well is Chanko Oden, a takeaway kiosk selling Japanese street snacks. It’s the first place in Singapore where you can pick and choose traditional oden like fishcakes and stewed daikon radish, as well as dabao roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes.

New co-living residence & esports hotel

Food aside, new hospitality developments are in the works. There’s a new long-term residence – Hovoh – for those who want to be right in the hustle and bustle of Bugis Street. It’s a co-living space that comes fully-furnished with appliances, so renters can move in straight away.

Image credit: Hovoh
Hang out with other Hovoh residents at the cosy clubhouse.

The co-living space even has an exclusive clubhouse just for residents to hang out outside of their rooms. There’ll even be events from time to time, like networking mixers and cocktail parties to get to know neighbours in the community.

Image credit: Arena Esports Hotel

But if you’re looking for a shorter stay, Bugis Street has a treat that’s great for gamers too. Look forward to the Arena Esports Hotel opening in the first quarter of 2023. As the name suggests, this is for all the Valorant, Fortnite, and Dota 2 players out there who can’t bear a night away from their games.

5v5 battle arena.
Image credit: Arena Esports Hotel

Starting from $100 per night, a room here comes equipped with a gaming cubby complete with PCs for all staying guests. If that isn’t enough, there are even arenas for 5-a-side battles and other team games you can book within the hotel itself.

New additions to Bugis Street

Beyond the shopping and dining, Bugis Street is also adding on a new link bridge to connect you to Bugis+. There’s already a link bridge from Bugis Junction to Bugis+, which means you’ll be able to walk through the whole district under shelter the minute you step out of Bugis MRT.

With new restaurants and residential developments coming to Bugis Street, we don’t doubt this place deserves return visits.

Find out more about Bugis Street

This post is brought to you by Bugis Town.
Cover image adapted from: Arena Esports Hotel
Photography by Afiqah Amir.