Home to some of Singapore’s most notable historic buildings and spaces, the Civic District is a thriving arts, cultural and lifestyle precinct. Go on a historical and cultural trail around the district, which will bring you to some of Singapore’s most historically important landmarks such as the former Supreme Court and City Hall, Old Parliament House, and the Padang.

Most may associate the Civic District with memorials and parks of historical interest, but within the enclave lies infinite charm. Whether you’re looking for a jaunt after work or to hang out with your friends and families over the weekend, go off the beaten path, uncover hidden gems and indulge in exquisite offerings of food, retail and experiences.

Chin Chin Eating House
Amongst the plethora of chicken rice restaurants in the area stands Chin Chin Eating House, which has been running since 1934 with the recipe passed down from generations. Known for its Hainanese-style poached chicken, the eatery also serves Hainanese pork chop and chap chye (mixed vegetables).

National Kitchen by Violet Oon
Craving for authentic Peranakan cuisine? Pay a visit to National Kitchen by Violet Oon. Helmed by local culinary doyenne Violet Oon, the restaurant boasts an elegant spread of nonya classics, including familiar delectable dishes like ngoh hiang, ayam buah keluak, beef rendang, and dry laksa.

Restaurant Ibid
Founded by Chef Woo Wai Leong—winner of Masterchef Asia in 2015—Restaurant Ibid serves up modern dishes inspired by Asian cuisine. Treat your taste buds to a medley of flavours that riff on traditional Chinese dishes, including wagyu short ribs with garlic-white pepper and ginseng, fried bao stuffed with foie gras and locally-sourced squid served with basil and caviar.

National Gallery Singapore
Take a break from your Netflix marathon and treat yourself to a visual feast of over 9,000 works of art from Southeast Asia at the National Gallery Singapore.Admire the surreal seafaring-themed exhibition by Cao Fei, learn more about art and architecture in Southeast Asia from the 1960s to 1980s and discover the entrancing work of local fine-art photographer Chua Soo Bin.Free admission to the gallery is available until the end of July 2020, so make sure to set a date this month!

Saint Andrew’s Cathedral
Right in the heart of City Hall stands the majestic Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, a place of worship known for its Neo-Gothic architecture. Take a stroll through its scenic grounds before heading inside this gazetted monument. Fun fact: the cross behind the pulpit is made with nails from the ruins of Coventry Cathedral in England.

GINLEE Studio
For a bout of retail therapy, drop by GINLEE Studio for a whole range of contemporary women’s wear. The dresses here are about both form and function, with a range of collections that are ideal for every occasion. ‘Take Root’—the brand’s latest Spring/Summer 2020 collection—is inspired by both nature and ethnic tradition.

CYC Made to Measure
While virtual meetings may be becoming the new norm, a gentleman shouldn’t take this opportunity to neglect his sartorial needs. To spruce up your wardrobe with tailored suits, head down to Capitol Piazza’s CYC Made to Measure. Quality materials, immaculate craftmanship and an eye for detail are the watchwords at this establishment. Fun fact: these homegrown artisans created shirts for our founding father — Mr Lee Kuan Yew—so you know you’re bound to be in safe hands.