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Tiong Bahru Market
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Landmark
Tiong Bahru Market is the bustling centerpiece of one of Singapore's oldest and most charismatic residential estates, renowned for its distinctive Art Deco-inspired architecture. The original market was established in 1950 to support the residents of the Tiong Bahru SIT estate, which marked one of the city's earliest forays into public housing. The current structure was completed in 2006 following a major two-year redevelopment project that aimed to modernize the facilities while preserving the traditional 'wet market' experience. On the ground floor, vendors offer a vast array of fresh produce, ranging from local seasonal fruits to live seafood, while the second floor features a famous hawker center. This culinary destination is home to legendary stalls serving authentic dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice and Chwee Kueh, attracting food enthusiasts from across the island. The building's open-concept design ensures natural cross-ventilation, creating a comfortable environment in Singapore's tropical climate. Serving as a cultural anchor, the market successfully balances modern efficiency with the nostalgic charm of a bygone era.
- Location: Singapore
- Top sights: Grave of Tan Tock Seng · Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter · SEAB Heritage Gallery
- Nearby: Serangoon (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 235 | 102 | 168 | 193 | 199 | 164 | 174 | 173 | 167 | 210 | 283 | 300 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Tiong Bahru Market is a bustling public market with a wet market on the ground floor and a hawker centre upstairs. It is open to everyone without admission charge. Visitors can browse produce, meats, and seafood, then enjoy a meal at the hawker stalls. The market is a lively local experience.
Typical hours
The wet market operates from early morning until around noon, while the hawker centre is open longer, typically from breakfast until late evening. Exact stall hours vary, so it is best to visit in the morning for the full experience. Some stalls close on certain days.
Photography
Photography is generally welcome in the market and hawker centre. Be courteous to stallholders and shoppers when taking pictures. Avoid using flash near food stalls to not disturb. Great photo opportunities of colorful produce and bustling scenes.
Time needed
Browsing the wet market takes about 30-45 minutes, and having a meal at the hawker centre adds another 30-60 minutes. In total, allow 1-2 hours to fully soak in the atmosphere. It is a quick stop if you just want a meal.
Combine with
Tiong Bahru Market is located in the trendy Tiong Bahru neighborhood, known for its hip cafes and art deco architecture. Nearby attractions include the Tiong Bahru Estate with its unique pre-war buildings and local boutique shops. Also close to the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Getting there
The market is at 30 Seng Poh Road, easily accessible via MRT (Tiong Bahru station, exit A). Many bus routes also serve the area. From the MRT, it is a short 5-minute walk. Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended.
Insider tip
Arrive early around 7-8 AM to see the wet market at its busiest and enjoy the freshest produce. The hawker centre is famous for dishes like chwee kueh and char kway teow - try the stalls with long queues for authenticity. Bring cash as some stalls do not accept cards.
Geography
Facts
- The original market at the current site was first opened in 1950.
- The market underwent a complete redevelopment between 2004 and 2006.
- The ground floor wet market houses over 250 stalls selling fresh produce.
- The hawker center on the first floor features 83 individual food stalls.
- Tiong Bahru was the first housing estate in Singapore developed by the SIT.
- The name 'Tiong Bahru' translates to 'New Cemetery' (Hokkien 'Tiong' and Malay 'Bahru').
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Sights in the town Tiong Bahru Market (6)
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Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit?
Morning hours are convenient to experience the fresh breakfast offerings.
What are the local culinary specialties?
You must try the Chwee Kueh or the handmade Shui Kueh.
Are the prices affordable?
Yes, it is a typical hawker market with very affordable and delicious food.
Is the market open every day?
Most stalls are open daily, but some might close on specific weekdays.
Is there fresh produce available?
Yes, the ground floor features a market area for fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat.
Tiong Bahru Market: where is it located?
Tiong Bahru Market is located in Singapore.
Tiong Bahru Market: what is there to see?
Highlights include Grave of Tan Tock Seng, Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter, SEAB Heritage Gallery.
Tiong Bahru Market: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Tiong Bahru Market: why is it worth visiting?
Tiong Bahru Market is the bustling centerpiece of one of Singapore's oldest and most charismatic residential estates, renowned for its distinctive Art Deco-inspired architecture.
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