Guide To Haji Lane: 20 Things To Do From Food, Shopping And More

Haji Lane is a place that pulses with creativity, colour, and character. Tucked in the heart of Kampong Glam, near Bugis, this impossibly narrow yet endlessly vibrant street is a feast for the senses. Picture this: bold, graffiti-covered walls stretching skyward, the scent of freshly brewed artisanal coffee weaving through the air, and the rhythmic hum of indie tunes spilling from hidden record stores. It’s my go-to place for hangouts and shopping. And if you’re adventurous and like to immerse in the local indie arts scene, this is the spot for you! Here are some places in Haji Lane that I recommend you check out!

Foodie Paradise: Where to eat in Haji Lane

A day of exploring Haji Lane isn’t complete without indulging in its vibrant food scene. From Instagram-worthy pastries to bold, fusion flavours, here are some must-visit spots.

1. Cafe Margaret

Stepping into Cafe Margaret feels like entering a cosy, rustic hideaway straight out of Seoul. I am obsessed with the wooden beams, soft lighting, and the irresistible aroma of buttery pastries that create a warm embrace.

Their Oreo Cube Croissant is a must-try—flaky and crisp on the outside, with a creamy, indulgent Oreo-infused filling that melts in your mouth. Pair it with their expertly brewed coffee, known for its smooth, rich flavour that complements their pastries perfectly. 

If you’re looking for something lighter, their Earl Grey Lavender Scones offer a fragrant, buttery treat with floral notes that make for an elegant pairing with tea. Pro tip: Arrive early, as these baked delights tend to sell out fast!

• Opening Hours: Fri – Wed, 10am – 7pm10AM – 7PM
  • Closed on Thursdays
• Address: Cafe Margaret, 32 Bali Lane, S(189868)

2. Coffee Donkee

Coffee Donkee is a specialty coffee shop that serves expertly crafted espresso-based beverages and hand brews made from Japanese-roasted beans. Their Latte and Mocha are smooth and rich, while those looking for something different might enjoy their Coconut Latte, which adds a unique twist to the classic coffee experience.

Apart from their stellar coffee selection, they offer tea options such as Matcha Latte, Hojicha Latte, and Black Tea/Oolong Tea. If you’re visiting on a weekend, you might get lucky and find some light pastries on display. However, they’re also cool with customers bringing in baked treats from the neighbouring stores.

The café offers a cosy indoor setup with a secluded seating area at the back for added privacy, as well as outdoor tables for those who enjoy people-watching along Haji Lane. Adding to its charm, the café serves alcohol, with its quirky name inspired by the idea of drinking until tipsy like a donkey. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed spot to unwind or a productive environment to work, the café provides WiFi and charging points, making it a convenient stop for digital nomads and casual visitors alike.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 10.30am – 6.30pm
• Address: Coffee Donkee, 51 Haji Lane, S(189244)

3. Afterwit

A bold and contemporary take on Mexican cuisine, Afterwit brings a refreshing Halal-certified twist to its menu. Combining classic Mexican flavours with innovative local elements, the café serves up a variety of tacos, burritos, and nachos in a laid-back, urban setting. The interior, designed in collaboration with The Methodology Works, is cosy yet spacious, making it ideal for casual meetings or remote work sessions.

Start your meal with a Virgin Lychee Mojito, a bright and citrusy mocktail that pairs well with the bolder, spiced dishes. Their Carne Asada Tacos—filled with thinly sliced, well-seasoned roast beef—offer a hearty yet well-balanced bite, while the Nachos Pancho de Pollo Cajún delivers a satisfying crunch, though it leans on the milder side in terms of flavour.

The highlight of the menu, however, is the Pato Jarabe de Arce Burrito, featuring maple-glazed duck paired with black beans, melted cheese, and fragrant Mexican rice. The dish is a harmonious blend of savoury and sweet elements that make it a standout choice. Beyond duck, they also serve burritos with beef, salmon, and mushrooms, and occasionally introduce limited-edition burritos inspired by Singaporean flavours.

For dessert, the Chichén Itzá is a delightful nod to the classic Mexican churro, featuring cinnamon-sugar-dusted brioche toast served with bananas and maple syrup. It’s a satisfying way to round off the meal, especially when paired with their well-balanced Flat White—a testament to their dedication to quality coffee.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 10pm
• Address: Afterwit, 778 N Bridge Rd, S(198746)

4. Piedra Negra

Bright, bold, and buzzing with energy, Piedra Negra is impossible to miss as you wander through Haji Lane. The walls are decked out in colourful murals, setting the perfect backdrop for a lively Mexican feast. First up on the menu? Their famous tableside guacamole—chunky, fresh, and bursting with flavour. Scoop it up with crisp tortilla chips, and you’re off to a great start.

For mains, their pulled beef burritos are a must-try, served alongside crispy waffle fries for that perfect crunch. Tacos here are equally irresistible, packed with well-seasoned meats and fresh toppings. And no meal is complete without a frozen margarita—strong, refreshing, and the perfect way to wash down all those bold Mexican flavours. Piedra Negra is ready to serve when you’re craving a hearty meal or just looking for a vibrant hangout spot. It’s a fiesta of flavours in the heart of Haji Lane!

• Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 12am
• Address: Piedra Negra, 241 Beach Road, S(189753)

5. Pita Bakery

For lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine, Pita Bakery is where you’ll find some of the softest, freshest pita bread in Singapore. Using a traditional 700-year-old recipe, their pita is warm, fluffy, and perfect for scooping up their selection of delicious dips. Pair your pita with classic hummus, smoky baba ganoush, rich tahini, or hearty falafel for a true taste of the Mediterranean.

Beyond their incredible breads and dips, Pita Bakery also offers a selection of vegetarian-friendly dishes that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. If you’re in the area, don’t miss the chance to grab some of their freshly baked goods for takeaway—just be sure to arrive early, as their kitchen often sells out by evening!

• Opening Hours: 
  • Mon – Thur: 9am – 9pm
  • Fri – Sun: 9am – 9.30pm

• Address: Pita Bakery, 29 Bali Lane, S(189865)

6. Bar Stories

If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, Bar Stories is one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets in the cocktail scene. Established in 2010, this intimate, hole-in-the-wall bar is known for pioneering the craft cocktail movement in the city. What sets Bar Stories apart is its lack of a formal cocktail menu—instead, the talented bartenders create custom-made drinks tailored to your personal tastes, mood, and preferences, making each visit a unique and immersive experience.

With an unwavering commitment to creativity and quality, Bar Stories has nurtured some of the best mixologists in Singapore, many of whom have gone on to run their own award-winning bars. The space itself blends effortlessly into the vibrant surroundings of Haji Lane, offering a cozy yet stylish retreat where you can unwind with a meticulously crafted drink. Whether you prefer a floral, citrusy, smoky, or spirit-forward cocktail, expect an unforgettable experience with every sip at Bar Stories.

• Opening Hours: 
  • Tue – Thur, 5.30pm – 11.30pm
  • Friday – Saturday, 5:30PM-12AM
• Address: Bar Stories, 55-57A Haji Lane, S(189248)

7. Shalaby Sweets

Step into Shalaby Sweets, and you’ll be greeted by the enticing aroma of authentic Middle Eastern desserts, flown in straight from Turkey. This cozy shop is a haven for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a wide range of delicacies, from crispy baklava layered with finely crushed nuts to chewy and fragrant Turkish delights filled with date paste or pistachios.

However, the highlight here is the Kunafa Cheese Dish, a delectable dessert made with layers of golden, sugar-soaked kunafa pastry wrapped around a core of rich, melted cheese, all topped with finely crushed pistachios. Every bite delivers a balance of crispiness, creaminess, and nutty sweetness, making it a must-try for first-time visitors.

For those looking to bring home a variety, you can mix and match from their selection, as pricing is based on weight. Whether you’re enjoying a warm plate of Kunefe in-store or taking home a selection of sweets, Shalaby Sweets offers an unforgettable taste of Middle Eastern indulgence.

• Opening Hours: 
  • Mon – Thur: 9am – 9pm
  • Fri – Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
• Address: Shalaby Sweets, 54 Haji Lane, S(189247)

Shop Till You Drop: Fashion & lifestyle stores

Haji Lane is a paradise for fashionistas and trendsetters, brimming with unique boutiques and one-of-a-kind lifestyle finds.You’ll find vintage stores offering upcycled denim jackets, boutiques that specialise in bohemian-chic styles, and edgy streetwear shops that offer bold graphic tees and statement sneakers. Here are some of the best shops to check out in Haji Lane:

8. Hygge

Step into Hygge, and you’re instantly transported into a world inspired by the Danish philosophy of appreciating life’s simple pleasures. Pronounced as “Hue-guh,” this lifestyle concept embraces coziness, warmth, and slowing down to enjoy everyday moments. The store encapsulates this ethos perfectly, offering an array of trinkets, keychains, and coin purses with adorable designs, as well as mugs, books, stamps, and postcards that celebrate comfort and mindfulness. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or a piece of Scandinavian-inspired serenity for your home, Hygge is a must-visit for those who appreciate life’s little joys.

• Opening Hours: 
  • Mon – Fri: 11.30am – 5pm
  • Sat – Sun: 11.30am – 6.30pm
• Address: HYGGE, 672 North Bridge Road, S(188803)

9. VINTAGEWKND

A standout in the world of sustainable fashion, VINTAGEWKND is a must-visit for anyone who loves vintage and reworked styles with a contemporary edge. Founded by Singaporean couple Eileen Tan and Eden Tay in 2015, the brand has transformed from a small side hustle into a thriving business beloved by Gen Z. Specialising in upcycled and reworked clothing, VINTAGEWKND takes discarded textiles and breathes new life into them, creating fresh, stylish pieces inspired by ’90s and Y2K fashion.

Stepping into their Haji Lane store is like entering a colourful time capsule—filled with tapestry corsets, patchwork jeans, halter tops, and playful accessories. They frequently drop themed collections inspired by pop culture icons, from Sailor Moon to My Little Pony, making their offerings especially appealing to nostalgic fashion lovers.

More than just a fashion brand, VINTAGEWKND is committed to sustainability. They have rehomed and recreated thousands of items, repurposing over 50 tons of textile waste. This shop is a must for anyone who loves fashion with a purpose.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 9pm
• Address: VINTAGEWKND, 41 Haji Lane, S(189234)

10. SuperWasted

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind pieces that blend avant-garde aesthetics with eco-conscious design, SuperWasted is the place to be. A rebellious offshoot of the beloved Vintagewknd, SuperWasted is an experimental concept store that thrives on pushing boundaries in sustainable fashion. Unlike its sister brand, which focuses on retro and vintage aesthetics, SuperWasted takes a grungier, edgier approach, blending radical streetwear influences with upcycled materials. The store is a playground for creativity, transforming discarded fabrics and textile waste into bold, unconventional pieces that redefine what “waste” can be.

Stepping into SuperWasted is like entering an artistic laboratory where nothing is wasted—literally. From reworked outerwear and oversized graphic tees to unique accessories crafted from repurposed materials, every piece tells a story of reinvention. Even the store’s setup reflects its ethos, featuring installations and decor made from salvaged objects. This is not just a fashion store; it’s a statement about sustainability, self-expression, and re-imagining the possibilities of fashion.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 12-9PM
• Address: SUPERWASTED, 16 Haji Lane, S(189209)

11. Deen Dunya

Deen Dunya is more than just a boutique—it’s an Islamic lifestyle store that blends faith with fashion, offering contemporary modest wear, prayer essentials, and beautifully curated gifts. With a focus on quality and aesthetic appeal, Deen Dunya aims to provide prayer wear, prayer mats, and accessories that help Muslims feel confident and comfortable in their daily worship.

Beyond apparel, the store also specializes in personalized gift sets, designed to be both meaningful and practical. Whether you’re looking for a beautifully embroidered prayer mat, a stylish abaya, or a heartfelt gift for a loved one, Deen Dunya ensures that every item reflects the Islamic values of beauty and generosity. The store embraces the philosophy that looking and feeling good in prayer is an essential part of spiritual well-being.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 12pm – 8pm
• Address: Deen Dunya, Golden Landmark Shopping Complex, 390 Victoria Street, #01-57, S(188061)

12. XVXII Jewellery

XVXII Jewellery is a homegrown jewellery brand that blends affordability with luxury, offering high-quality, tarnish-free pieces designed for everyday elegance. Specializing in 925 sterling silver, high-grade stainless steel, and 18k gold-plated jewellery, XVXII ensures that their accessories are not just beautiful but also durable—waterproof and sweat-resistant, so you never have to take them off.

What started as a humble Instagram store has now flourished into a physical space, where XVXII shares its boutique with other local businesses, reinforcing its commitment to the local creative community. The brand caters to a diverse audience, carrying both Western and Desi-inspired designs, allowing customers to find pieces that resonate with their unique styles. Whether you’re after delicate rings, intricate necklaces, or statement earrings, XVXII offers Pinterest-worthy jewellery that combines modern aesthetics with timeless appeal.

• Opening Hours: 
  • Tue – Sun: 12pm – 8.30pm
• Address: XVXII, 61 Haji Lane, S(189254)

13. Musicology Records

Walking down Haji Lane, you might hear Musicology Records before you even see it — just follow the sound of classic vinyl playing from within. This intimate vinyl shop is a paradise for music enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of records, from indie and classic rock to city pop and even holiday-themed collections. Beyond records, they also stock turntables and audio gear, making it a one-stop destination for audiophiles looking to build or expand their setups.

But Musicology Records is more than just a record store—it’s an experience. The shop regularly hosts DJ spin sessions, bringing together vinyl lovers to enjoy curated sets from guest DJs. Whether you’re hunting for a rare pressing, browsing for your next favourite album, or just soaking in the nostalgic charm of vinyl culture, this store offers an immersive and dynamic space for music lovers of all kinds.

• Opening Hours: 
  • Mon – Sat: 12.30pm – 8.30pm
  • Sun: 1pm – 9pm
• Address: Musicology Records, 66 Haji Lane, S(189259)

14. Digicam Diaries

For those who love capturing moments with a touch of nostalgia, Digicam Diaries is the perfect stop along Haji Lane. Specialising in adorable, vintage-style digital cameras, this store offers a curated selection of compact and stylish digicams that blend functionality with retro aesthetics. Every camera is tested and cleaned to perfection, ensuring high-quality performance wrapped in a charming package.

Ideal for anyone looking to add a playful yet practical addition to their photography gear, Digicam Diaries’ collection makes snapping photos a fun, stylish experience. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, their selection of vintage-inspired cameras will transport you back to the era of early digital photography, capturing moments with a distinct, retro flair.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 1pm – 8pm
• Address: Digicam Diaries, 16 Haji Lane, S(189209)

15. The Cartel’s Vintage Store

The Cartel’s Vintage Store is a haven for vintage fashion enthusiasts looking for unique, high-quality pieces at unbeatable prices. From affordable thrift finds starting at just $5 to premium retro apparel, this store caters to every budget and style. Whether you’re hunting for classic NFL jerseys, denim jackets, or timeless graphic tees, The Cartel’s selection is sure to impress.

Beyond its incredible inventory, what makes this store truly special is its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. The team is always ready to help, whether it’s offering style recommendations or sharing the history behind their curated pieces.

If you’re after a fun, budget-friendly thrifting experience, this is the perfect place to explore. With its mix of affordable pricing, standout vintage finds, and top-tier customer service, The Cartel’s Vintage Store is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to elevate their wardrobe with one-of-a-kind retro gems.

• Opening Hours:
  • Sat – Thur: 12 – 8pm
  • Fri: 2pm – 8pm
• Address: The Cartel’s Vintage Store, 44 Haji Lane, level 2, S(189237)

Things to do in Haji Lane: Activities and more

Beyond eating and shopping, Haji Lane offers plenty of activities that make it an all-day affair.

16. Visit Solace Studios for a unique self-photo experience

For those who love capturing moments, Solace Studios offers a unique self-photo experience with beautifully themed setups. Unlike traditional photo booths, this studio provides an intimate space where you can take high-quality self-portraits with professional lighting and artistic backdrops. They have different photobooth set-ups like the airplane lavatory, which is the one we tried here, the elevator, the washing machine, and some vintage-style ones!

You can pay by cash or credit card in the booths themselves. It’s very easy to navigate and the shop also provides plastic sleeves to keep your photos from crumpling. Their different photobooths are scattered all around Haji Lane. Perfect for solo shoots, couples, or group sessions, Solace Studios ensures that you leave with stunning keepsakes of your Haji Lane adventure.

• Opening Hours: 
  • Sun – Thur: 11am – 10pm
  • Fri – Sat: 11am – 11pm
• Address: Solace Airlines by Solace Studios, 30 Haji Lane, #01-00, S(189223)

17. Leathercraft at Crafune Leather Goods

At Crafune, leather crafting isn’t just about making accessories—it’s about the experience of creating something personal and lasting with your own hands. This leather atelier, located in the heart of Haji Lane, specializes in hands-on workshops where participants learn traditional craftsmanship techniques like saddle stitching, cutting, and burnishing to craft their own leather goods. Whether you’re designing a key holder, card sleeve, wallet, or even a tote bag, each session offers a unique, immersive experience.

The workshop is open to beginners and guided by skilled craftsmen who ensure that every participant leaves with a beautifully finished product. Each piece is customisable, allowing visitors to select their preferred leather colour and even deboss initials or designs onto their final creation. The process is both therapeutic and rewarding, making it a great activity for couples, friends, or solo adventurers looking to try something new.

Sustainability is also a core principle at Crafune. The store ensures that all leather used is sourced from food industry by-products, promoting waste reduction and durability in fashion. If you’re not keen on crafting, Crafune also offers a selection of ready-made leather goods, from sleek wallets to stylish bags, all crafted with the same dedication to quality and longevity.

Whether you’re looking for a hands-on DIY leather experience or a beautifully handcrafted item to take home, Crafune is the perfect stop for lovers of artistry, sustainability, and personalisation.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 11am – 6pm
• Address: Crafune Leather Goods and Workshop, 38 Haji Lane, #02-01, S(189231

18. What The Pug Cafe

A must-visit for dog lovers, What The Pug Cafe lets visitors enjoy a playful and heartwarming session with adorable pugs while sipping on refreshing drinks. The cafe operates on a time-slot basis, so it’s best to book in advance to secure your time with these lovable companions.

• Opening Hours: Tue – Sun, 12pm – 8pm
• Address: What The Pug, 80 Haji Lane, S(189271)

19. Motion Art Space

Step into Motion Art Space, where art meets science in a one-of-a-kind creative experience. This interactive studio lets you craft stunning, motion-powered paintings, proving that you don’t need prior artistic skills to create a masterpiece. Using a combination of physics and colour, participants experiment with spin and pendulum painting techniques, producing mesmerizing, gallery-worthy artwork with ease.

The process is simple yet exciting—select your colour palette, set your canvas, and let gravity and motion take control. No two pieces are ever the same, making each session a truly personal artistic journey. The studio provides all the necessary materials, including aprons, ensuring a mess-free and enjoyable experience.

Once your painting is complete, it takes three days to dry, after which you can collect your unique piece and display it proudly. Whether you’re looking for a fun date idea, a solo creative retreat, or a group bonding activity, Motion Art Space promises an immersive and memorable artistic adventure in the heart of Haji Lane.

• Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 7pm
• Address: Motion Art Space, 36A Arab Street, Level 2, S(199735

20. Photos at Graffiti Walls

No trip to Haji Lane is complete without snapping photos at the vibrant street murals that make the area so iconic. These stunning artworks bring the streets to life, each mural telling its own story through bold colours and intricate designs. The most famous of them all is the Aztec-inspired mural at Piedra Negra, painted by Colombian artist Didier Jaba Mathieu, who has left his artistic mark all over Haji Lane.

Another impressive piece by Jaba is located at the junction of Ophir Road and Beach Road, featuring a futuristic, cyberpunk-like aesthetic that stands out amidst the traditional shophouses. For something with a more eclectic and playful vibe, stop by the Blu Jaz Café mural at 9 & 11 Bali Lane, another one of Jaba’s creations, adding vibrancy to the alley shared with Punjaby Dawat.

For fans of pop art, the mural at Italian Bakery (23 Haji Lane) by PrettyFreakyFantasy offers a funky and energetic touch, while superhero fans can’t miss the Ultraman and superhero Merlion mural at Black Sheep & Co (26 Haji Lane), created by the artist collective DPLMT. Whether you’re after intricate cultural depictions or bold and quirky modern pieces, Haji Lane’s street art scene offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable photoshoot.

Locations of Must-See Murals in Haji Lane:

• Piedra Negra, Haji Lane (Corner of Beach Road) – Aztec-inspired mural by Didier Jaba Mathieu
• Piedra Negra, Junction of Ophir Road and Beach Road – Futuristic cyberpunk mural by Didier Jaba Mathieu
• Blu Jaz Café, 9 & 11 Bali Lane – Colourful, eye-catching mural by Didier Jaba Mathieu
• Italian Bakery, 23 Haji Lane – Funky pop art mural by PrettyFreakyFantasy
• Black Sheep & Co, 26 Haji Lane – Ultraman & superhero Merlion mural by DPLMT

How to Get to Haji Lane?

The easiest way to reach Haji Lane is by MRT. Hop off at Bugis MRT Station (Downtown Line/ East-West Line), take Exit B, and enjoy a leisurely five-minute walk. Alternatively, Grab or bus services offer convenient alternatives depending on where you’re coming from.

Things I wish I did to fully enjoy Haji Lane

• Take your time to truly explore—Haji Lane deserves at least a full day to fully explore. I made the mistake of only setting aside half a day, and I definitely missed out on visiting more amazing shops and cafes!
• Don’t get too excited and immediately enter the first cool-looking shop or photobooth! There are so many unique stores and backdrops along the way, and we found even better ones further down. Unfortunately, by the time we got to them, they had long queues. Take a stroll first and scope out your favourites before committing. 
• If you love taking photos, head out in the morning for the best mural shots! The lighting is just right, it’s not too hot yet, and you’ll have fewer people in the background. Plus, with many shops and restaurants still closed, you won’t have to worry about passersby in your shots.
• Highly recommend visiting on a weekday morning if you prefer fewer crowds—but keep in mind that most shops only open later in the day. If you want a bustling atmosphere and more shopping options, late afternoons or evenings are better. It’s all about choosing your priority: a quieter visit or a livelier experience with everything open.
• Check social media before your visit for the latest pop-up events and newly opened cafes! Haji Lane is always changing, and I wish I had done this beforehand—I found out too late about some trendy new spots I would have loved to visit. for new cafe openings and event pop-ups!
• One more tip—dress comfortably! You’ll be walking a lot under the sun in this open-air street, so wear breathable clothes and comfy shoes. Bring an umbrella too—Singapore’s weather is unpredictable, and a sudden downpour could cut your adventure short!; it’s a vibrant, ever-evolving experience.

Haji Lane isn’t just a street; it’s a vibrant, ever-evolving experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a cool place to soak in the atmosphere, this iconic lane has something unforgettable in store. You can check out a more detailed list of bars and cafes to visit in Haji Lane. Happy exploring—and don’t forget to share your favourite finds!