A meandering walk across Kampong Gelam, Singapore’s historic neighbourhood, is a great way to explore the best of the Middle East. From Arab Street Mosque (Sultan Mosque), Bussorah Street to much-animated Haji Lane, this neighbourhood has everything you need. It is a cultural immersion that makes you feel like you are part of this stylish, happening neighbourhood.
As you explore this historic district, make sure to stop by the Sultan Mosque in Bussorah Street whose majestic golden dome rises above the city skyline. Its busy streets and bustling byways will carry you away to a different time zone, while its varied cuisine and friendly people will make you feel at home in no time at all.
Adjacent to Arab Street is Haji Lane perched in the shadows of its own enchanting surrounding architecture. The lane is famous for its shops that sell items like clothes, shoes, jewellery, bags and many more. You can spend hours just window-shopping in this area or simply enjoy people-watching at a nearby cafe!
Whether your taste buds are craving the best local delicacies, or you want to try a new global dish, you will find a wide range of Bussorah Street Food. Foodies taking a stroll around the area will find all that they’re looking for and more!
Sultan Mosque
As you approach the Arab Street Mosque, you are greeted with a grand sight in its golden dome, a majestic icon of the area. It’s a stunningly beautiful building, worth the journey alone. Inside is a space of serene beauty, where you can experience holiness and spiritual renewal. Sultan Mosque is an especially revered place for the Muslim community and a beloved heritage site for Singaporeans.
Street Food
When your tummy grumbles and you are hungry, there is nothing like street food to cure it. The best part of travelling is tasting all the different types of foods that Bussorah Street has to offer. Nothing quite beats enjoying a delicious meal while on the go. Want to eat healthily? Or just try something new? No worries, there are options galore!
Pitta Bread
From dipping to sandwiches, this Arabic bread makes dishes like Msakhan possible. The delicious aroma and delicate flavour of Arabic Bread will certainly make your day. With a soft, yet fluffy consistency and easy to fold, there is no other bread like it in the Middle East. If you’re looking to grab a bite while getting some fresh air, Pita Bakery is just a 2-minute walk from Sultan Mosque. They serve Arabic bread along with mouthwatering Middle Eastern food.
Shawarma
Made popular after a brief mention in Marvel’s 2012 Avengers movie, a shawarma sandwich is a meal fit for any superhero or citizen. Roasted slowly over an open flame, then delicately sliced into tender shavings, it’s served in a pita with tahini, hummus and pickled vegetables to create a culinary perfection that balances sweetness and saltiness in every bite. It is truly the perfect snack for anyone on the go.
Hummus
As you probably know, no study is needed to prove the deliciousness of this creamy and protein-packed dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic and a few drops of lemon juice. Made from simple ingredients that make it a staple in most Middle East countries.
Falafel
If you need a crunchy snack that’s not fried, get your hands on falafel. It’s the Middle Eastern equivalent of nachos: fried dough with ground chickpeas, garlic and spices. The perfect healthy food for vegetarians!
This savoury, crunchy filo dough is a perfect light meal for vegetarians. Chickpeas, onions and spices are mixed with parsley and stuffed into balls that are then fried to golden-brown perfection.
Foul Mudammas
This dish made with fava beans and herbs has a kick. You’ll often see it served during breakfast with warm, Arab bread. This flavorful dish, traditionally eaten by Egyptian farmers, will give you a new way to start your day. It’s hardy and filling enough to serve as a breakfast food, and it’s delicious enough to serve as an appetiser at dinner parties and family gatherings.
Manakeesh
This warm Egyptian dish is a fava bean lover’s dream come true. Traditional, hearty and served warm, you can eat it any time of day as a hearty breakfast or top it with tomatoes and parsley for a delicious lunch or dinner.
Takeaway
Want to explore Kampong Gelam in Singapore? Then hop on over. This traditional melting pot of cultures is a great place to eat and drink in the vibrant atmosphere. To find out more, browse visitkamponggelam.com.sg. From local favourites to foodie must-tries, and the best places to sit and savour them, explore with us. Our interactive maps and guides will keep you eating, drinking, and exploring.
