20 Things To Do At Haji Lane – Cosy Cat Cafe, Airplane-Themed Photo Booth & Thrift Stores

Things to do at Haji Lane

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Haji Lane. Ask any millennial and they’ll tell you fond stories about nights out at its lively bars or about how they found a cool vintage store they thrifted their favourite ‘fits from. But despite Haji Lane being one of the most pops spots in the Bugis area, there are still things we may have missed the last time we hung out there with the kakis.

From vintage stores and DIY leather goods to dessert cafes, here’s what to do in Haji Lane during your next get-together.

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When is the best time to go to Haji Lane?

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It’s best to go to Haji Lane in the late morning or afternoon, as most shops usually start opening around 11am. However, if you’d like to explore the street art without the bustling crowd, you might prefer getting an earlier start in the morning instead.

If you’re there to check out the bars and restaurants, then evenings are a better time because most of the eateries have outdoor seating along the inner lanes. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy live music at certain places during dinner.

As with most places, Haji Lane can get quite packed on weekends so it’s better to make your visits on weekdays.

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How to get to Haji Lane

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You can take the MRT via the East-West (EW12) or Downtown (DT14) Line and get off at Bugis Station. Then make a 10-minute walk to reach Haji Lane.

Alternatively, you could take the bus, as several routes stop nearby. These include buses 10, 100, 133, 197, 33, 851, 851E, and 857.

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– Shops & activities at Haji Lane –

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Whether you’re a fashion girlie who’s working on their next upcycling project, or an animal lover keen on visiting the different cat or dog cafes, here are some activities and shops to check out at Haji Lane.

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1. Solace Studios

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Aeroplane-themed photobooth for $10

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Image adapted from: @charmainelimys via Instagram

Can we pretend that airplanes in the night sky are like shooting stars? Maybe not, but we can pretend we’re aboard a plane at Solace Studios. This place has been designed to look like you’re about to jet set with a photo booth that resembles a plane lavatory with 0.5 camera angle.

There’s also a check-in counter and props like a suitcase and passport cover to make the illusion as realistic as possible. Even your printed photo strips ($10) feature a boarding pass. All you gotta do is show up in your best airport look and snap away.

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2. Pixie Loft

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Affordable $2 photo strips on Mondays

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Speaking of self-photo studios in Singapore, there’s one more at Haji Lane – Pixie Loft. 90s kids will remember the era of Neoprints and this studio will be a reminder of those good ‘ol days. Here, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee of $10/pax to get an hour of unlimited use of all their themed backdrops. Plus, you get to bring home 1 photo strip.

However, you can enjoy free entry and a photo strip for just $2 if you show up on a Monday between 12pm and 2pm. There are also other weekday deals such as 1-for-1 entry on Tuesdays. Selfies are made easy with each backdrop having its own ring light and adjustable phone stand.

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3. Bears & Friends

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Unique candy flavours from Germany

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Image credit: @pickmystar via Instagram

For sweet tooths in the mood for something beary gummy, Bears & Friends has unique flavours you won’t find at your neighbourhood supermarket.

Hailing from Germany – AKA gummy central – this candy store shakes things up with flavours such as Strawberry Milkshake and Sparkling Wine, which has a little Prosecco for an added kick. Prices start from $6.50 (90g), with gummy packets and gift tins you can bring home.

The store uses natural ingredients for its gummies, with vegan-friendly options available.
Image credit: @mumscallingblog via Instagram

Don’t get overwhelmed if you can’t decide on what flavour to get – mix and match a few and fill up a plastic cup to have it on the go. They even have seasonal candies such as Easter gummy bunnies and jelly-filled hearts for Valentine’s Day.

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4. Meomi Cat Cafe

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Cosy cat cafe with affordable food & drinks

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Image credit: @meomicatcafe via Instagram

The feline friends you’ll meet at Meomi Cat Cafe are impawsibly cute. Rates start at $14/adult and $7/child with a complimentary drink for the first hour. Every half hour after that will cost you an additional $5/adult and $3/child.

Plus, you can grab a bite from their in-house cafe if you plan to stay longer, with snacks such as Belgium Chocolate Cake ($6.50) and Belgium Waffles ($4). If you want something more filling, go for their Roast Chicken Croissant ($6) and wash it down with an assortment of teas ($2) or coffees ($2-$4).

You can bring home cute cat merch for a good cause – all proceeds to go the Cat Welfare Society.
Image credit: Chen Sherlly via Google Maps

Walk-ins are accepted, though space is limited to only 10 people at a time. So don’t set yourself up for disappointment and book a slot early by making a reservation via Meomi Cat Cafe’s Facebook page. Kids aged 7-13 will need to bring a photo ID and be accompanied by a guardian to get in.

             

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5. Flame Vintage Store

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Rare streetwear from big brands

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Image credit: @flam3v via Instagram

New drip alert at Flame Vintage Store. Find pieces from renowned brands like Champion, Nike, and Adidas, or if you’re a high baller, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana. The store carries its stock in limited quantities, so be quick to nab something you like.

Follow Flame Vintage’s Telegram channel for updates on restocks and the latest arrivals. The store’s TikTok is also known to have live biddings online, so stay tuned if you don’t want to miss out on some fire deals.

Image credit: @flam3v via Instagram

Those who wanna check out the quality for themselves or just window shop can look out for their flaming signboard along Haji Lane. It makes a cool backdrop for photos in your new fit too.

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6. Crafune

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DIY leather wallets, bags & watch straps

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Image credit: @crafune via Instagram

Slow down and smell the roses leather at Crafune. Making a wallet from scratch may seem like a daunting task, but Crafune has workshops to guide you along the way. These range from small accessory workshops ($85) to wallet (from $85) and bag workshops (from $105), which last roughly around 3 hours. Sounds about right for a unique date or bonding idea.

You can make your own cardholders, money clips, and even bags – these would make for great gifts with a personal touch.
Image credit: @crafune via Instagram

If you’re looking to buy something without the labour, Crafune offers customisation services for their ready-made handmade crafts like debossing or hot stamping names, initials, or dates to make your item extra special. For online shoppers, there’s free delivery if your total comes up to more than $80.

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7. What the Pug

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Pug cafe with complimentary souvenir photos

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Image credit: @watthepugcafe via Instagram

Commemorate your visit to Singapore’s first pug cafe What The Pug with a complimentary instant photo of you and one of the adorable pugs you’ll be playing with during your visit. Each session costs $20/pax for 45 minutes and comes with a free canned drink.

Image adapted from: @singapore.shopfronts via Instagram

Reservations via What The Pug’s ticket page are recommended as there are limited slots, so chope a spot in advance. Major pug lovers can also get a multi-day pass for $120 – that’s 6 sessions you can share amongst friends.

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8. Aesthetic murals

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Snap photos with Haji Lane’s iconic artworks

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Image credit: @stephipolito22 via Instagram

Amidst all the food, drinks, and shopping, take the time to admire some of the murals scattered all over the walls of Haji Lane. You’ll find artworks inspired by Singapore’s history and even pop culture classics like Ultraman.

Go on a mini-photo shoot with a new backdrop in each photo – here are some pit stops to add to your IG adventure:

• Piedra Negra – At the junction of Ophir Road and Beach Road
• Punjaby Dawat & Blu Jaz Café – 9 & 11 Bali Lane
• 23 Haji Lane
• 26 Haji Lane

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9. Hygge

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Charming lifestyle products

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Image credit: Hygge via Facebook

Once a cafe and now a lifestyle store, Hygge carries a range of charming products ranging from home decor to bags and handcrafted accessories. Their pieces are sourced from all around the region, including Singapore. For a personal touch, you can even customise names and initials on some of their items as gifts to friends.

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10. SUPERWASTED

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Upcycled clothes with different pieces weekly

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Denim overalls made from upcycled materials.
Image credit: @superwastedstore via Instagram

You don’t have to feel guilty about buying new clothes again when shopping for your next fit at SUPERWASTED. They specialise in breathing new life into old clothes and materials through upcycling, like making a bag out of old jeans.

Image credit: @superwastedstore via Instagram

You’ll be able to spot the store from a mile away with its rainbow storefront and shopping bags hanging outside. The window display also features a new item every week if you need some inspo on what to get.

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– Food at Haji Lane –

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Whether you’re looking for light bar snacks, keto ice cream, or prefer heavier meals such as prawn mee and pizza, there is plenty of food to indulge in at Haji Lane.

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11. Black Sheep & Co Bar

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Craft beer & local bar snacks

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Image credit: @t.n.r.t via Instagram

We’ve all turned to our trusty pints of Guinness or Heineken, but switch things up with craft beers on tap at Black Sheep & Co. They’ve got beers from London, the US, and even their own local brew. This cosy bar is a great place for a chill drinking session and a bit less havoc than some of the other bars in the area.

Image credit: @eddio via Instagram

For those who enjoy IPAs, the Hazy Jane ($15/pint) is a light beer from England with fruity notes. Stout lovers can try The Gipsy Hill Glimmer ($17/pint) which has hints of coffee and vanilla.

Drinking on an empty stomach is a recipe for a hectic night out, so try some of their locally inspired bites like Chilli Cheese Naan ($6.90) or Sambal Scampi ($12.90) – a little twist to sambal prawns.

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12. Habibi-san

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Middle Eastern & Japanese omakase-style dining

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Image credit: @dinnersswithus via Instagram

With a name like Habibi-san, one would be curious as to just what kind of food to expect. Their menu features a blend of Middle Eastern and Japanese flavours, as well as daily specials for something new with each visit.

Their Babaganoush ($12) isn’t just your usual eggplant and tahini – it comes with a Japanese sesame sauce as well as fried chicken skin on top to give it an extra depth of flavour. You’ve also got the Seaweed Chicken Tsukune ($14) that’s meatballs and shawarma paired with citrussy yuzu mayo and roasted seaweed.

The restaurant has seating options for various group sizes too.
Image adapted from: @thetravellingspud via Instagram 

Those who simply don’t know what to choose can opt for their omakase experience ($65-$98 per guest), where the chefs will pick out dishes for you to try. You’ll need a partner in crime though, as a minimum of 2 guests is required.

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13. Piedra Negra

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Affordable Mexican food at Haji Lane

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Image credit: Piedra Negara via Google Maps 

The colourful lights and neon decor at Piedra Negara naturally draw a crowd, making it one of Haji Lane’s more popular eateries. Whether it’s for a night out over drinks or a hearty dinner, Piedra Negara is a great option for fans of Mexican cuisine.

Their sizable portions will get you your money’s worth, so order some loaded Nachos (from $12.90) or Enchiladas (from $14.90) to share with the gang.

Image credit: @alethnagitnev via Instagram

Fresh guac is a must-have – especially so at Piedra Negra where the staff make it right in front of you. Using a mortar and pestle, they’ll grind the ingredients right at your table, so you know it’s as fresh as it can get. They’ve also got live performances on Friday nights, so take a mini Mexican vacation to celebrate your next TGIF.

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14. Nirvana Dessert Cafe

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Affordable souffle pancakes from $9

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Your photo gallery will be filled with dessert pics after a trip here.
Image adapted from: @nirvanadessertcafe via Instagram

You can have a feast for your eyes before digging into desserts at Nirvana Dessert Cafe. For just $9, get 3 pieces of fluffy Souffle Pancakes that come with berries and a choice of maple, chocolate or salted caramel syrup. Their Egglet waffles with ice cream ($10) are also pretty popular and come in a waffle cone loaded with toppings like marshmallows and berries.

They also have the popular Japanese dessert, Daifuku mochi, with unique flavours like Oreo, choco hazelnut and Milo. At $3-$3.50 per piece, mix and match your favourite flavours.

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15.  Momolato

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Keto-friendly & vegan ice cream

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Image credit: @momolatosg via Instagram

Eat all the ice cream you want guilt-free thanks to Momolato’s keto and vegan options. This halal-certified cafe puts out some pretty experimental flavours for a period of time like Laksa and Goat Cheese & Cherries if you’re up for something different.

Their signature flavours start at $4.90/scoop, premium at $5.50/scoop and Keto options at $7.40/scoop.

Image credit: Momolato

Keto doesn’t mean less flavour either – indulge in a scoop of Salted Caramel with Cookies ($21/pint) or Korean Strawberry Cheesecake Swirl ($21/pint) without interrupting your diet. They’ve also got whole gelato cakes with flavours like Honey Chamomile Lychee Rose ($69) to buy for celebrations.

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16. Blu Jaz Cafe

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Haji Lane’s iconic jazz bar

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Image credit: Blu Jaz Cafe

Talk about Haji Lane and someone is bound to mention Blu Jaz Cafe. A Haji Lane classic that’s loved by regulars, this is one of the few bars in Singapore that showcases live jazz music.

Enjoy the tunes with some of their Indian dishes, like Amritsari Paneer Tikka ($11.90) which is cottage cheese cubes with spices and veggies, or Katsuri Malai Tikka ($13.90) with grilled chicken cubes marinated in yoghurt and spices.

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17. Madd Pizza

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Homemade pizzas from scratch

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Image credit: Madd Pizza via Facebook

Madd Pizza is a local pizzeria that crafts its pizzas from scratch using high-quality ingredients from Italy. You have the option of either ordering a single slice for a light meal or a full-sized pizza to share with friends or family.

Besides pizzas, they also offer focaccia and bruschetta sandwiches with various toppings such as parma ham, rocket, and stracchino ($14) and Truffle Pesto & Mascarpone ($14).

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18. Good Luck Beerhouse

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Asian street food including dim sum

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Image credit: Good Luck Beerhouse

Good Luck Beerhouse offers a variety of delicious Asian street food options, from a wide range of dim sum to Wagyu Beef Noodles ($16) and Iberico Satay ($15). Take your pick from their assortment of local and international craft beers to finish off your meal on a refreshing, cold note.

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19. Afterwit

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Burrito & taco lunch sets

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Image credit: Afterwit 

Known for their affordable Mexican-inspired food, Afterwit’s lunch sets offer classics such as burritos ($13.90) and tacos ($17.90). Their Bahn Mi Tacos are a customer favourite that comes filled with pickled veggies, quail eggs, and chicken or beef. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, there’s Camote Burritos with tofu, sweet potato, and kale.

Aside from the sets, the a la carte menu features a wider variety of classic Mexican dishes including Quesadillas ($19), Fajitas ($30), and Enchiladas ($16).

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20. Blanco Court Prawn Mee

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Around since 1982

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Image credit: Blanco Court Prawn Mee via Facebook

Running since 1928, Blanco Court Prawn Mee is one of the more well-known prawn noodles in Singapore amongst both locals and tourists alike. They offer bowls from $7 with a few pairings where you can choose to add in pork ribs for a richer flavour profile or keep it classic with their jumbo prawns.

Be sure to order the ngoh hiang fritters from the shop next door to complement your meal.

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(Temporarily Closed) 3 Of Cups bar

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Quirky tarot-inspired drinks & free readings

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You don’t need to look for any signs to know that you’ll have a fun time at 3 Of Cups, where mystery awaits with their tarot-themed cocktails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can pick from a deck of tarot cards to get a corresponding surprise cocktail.

The High Priestess cocktail ($20).
Image adapted from: @wjs86 via Instagram and Ng Wan Keat via Google Maps 

Get ready for drinks like The Devil ($21) and The Hermit ($22), with the former containing chilli padi while The Hermit uses curry leaves. You can try some of their Magic Mushrooms ($5) if you’re feeling peckish. And no, it’s not what you’re thinking – these are deep-fried mushrooms to munch on that are totally SFW.

If the universe is telling you to save money, you can order 3 drinks and get a free tarot reading on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7.30pm onwards. Sceptics and believers alike can walk away feeling enlightened, though it might just be the booze talking.

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Things to know before you go to Haji Lane

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Before making plans to go to Haji Lane, there are a few things to take note of. Firstly, while most businesses do accept credit cards, it’s better to carry some extra cash on you, especially if you’re shopping at smaller vendors.

Secondly, though the lane is open for the entire day and many of the F&B establishments are open till late, a lot of the retail stores have limited operating hours, so be sure to check before heading down.

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What to do in Haji Lane, Singapore

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Shopping in Singapore at malls or heading down to Clarke Quay for nightlife has been the go-to for many visitors and locals. And while Haji Lane is up there on the list for a lot of us, check out its lesser-known spots and you might just end up finding a new corner for you and your friends to call your own.

For other entertainment guides to Singapore, check out:

• Things to do in Singapore
• Scenic bus routes in Singapore
• Skate parks in Singapore
• Haw Par Villa guide

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Cover image adapted from: @nirvanadessertcafe, @watthepugcafe via Instagram
Originally published by Sheann Neo on 20th August 2020. Last updated by Mae-Z Fam & Aditi Kashyap on 9th April 2024.