12 unexpected things to do around Tanjong Pagar MRT

Hidden on the second level of Tanjong Pagar Plaza is a literal hole in the wall that looks like the entrance of a cave. Inside is a minimalist haven with stone grey walls, barely-there furniture and the smell of speciality coffee wafting through the air. Equate Coffee just opened in March this year and has already become a favourite amongst coffee connoisseurs in Singapore. 

Its espresso-based coffee is made using a house blend called Solid Gold. It's a unique blend of beans sourced from Brazil and Sumatra, produced in a roastery in Malaysia. Other options on the drinks menu include two types of single-origin filter coffee, iced chocolate and tea. The dessert menu is just as minimalistic as its interiors, with only Mount Ondeh and Canele baked in-house.  

Day drinking is embraced at this bar in Amoy Street, which explains why its doors open at noon. Highlights on the menu focus on dilution; how ice can alter the taste of a drink over time. Its low-alcohol drinks make it friendly for everyone, with creations like one made with watermelon, bay leaf, and rose or another with pear, pink peppercorn, and chamomile. Filtered coffee and tea are also available for those looking for a caffeine fix, with a small selection of finger food that will help line your stomach. 

Traditionally, Chinese tea is more than just a beverage. It’s an art form, a service, and a symbol of communion – definitely merits some sort of appreciation. At Tea Chapter, any Asian tea lover or those aspiring to be one can experience a journey of properly making, serving, and tasting an array of Asian tea – such as green, white, Oolong, red, black, and floral. Discover the complexities and meanings behind the task of tea making with the Tea Appreciation Package (from $48/person), from which Tea Masters will guide you and a buddy through the essence of appreciating different types of tea – learning more about its history and its philosophy. We promise you it’ll be a tea party like no other.

This long, three-storey shophouse on Craig Road is the only one on the block that hasn't been refurbished, and for good reason. It is lined and packed with trinkets and treasures – from jade cabbages in cabinets, porcelain plates on the walls and typewriters lining the stairwells, to old Chinese dressing tables and an ancient music player that looks like an oversized, numberless grandfather clock with the functions of a pianola.

Browsing through books promises to be a fun affair in this charming two-storey shophouse-turned-bookshop. The indie bookstore carries titles across all genres that range from specially selected literary, non-fiction, travel narratives, and award-winning children's books. Additionally, the books on sale – ranging from bestsellers and literary classics to children's titles – are actually quite affordable, or at least cheaper than you'd expect from other bookstores.  

Ladies, tired of hearing “treat yourself” without knowing where to do so? Well, just a 5 minutes walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT is your answer – Charm Beauty Zone. As the name suggest, this health and beauty shop is the place to be to attain that alluring, radiant charm. Services include Body Treatments – such as Tummy Detox ($75), Breast Firming ($88), Uterus Detox ($108) and many others – Facials ($75), Nails (from $10), and Eyelash (from $15). You’ll feel like an absolute queen here with your girlfriends (or by yourself, nothing wrong with that).

Gents, looking sharp is as easy as ABC, 123 at this tailor near Tanjong Pagar MRT. At Edit Suits, it is believed that a well-made suit is more than just a garment; it’s a statement – a good one that can be achieved in just three easy-steps. Simply, book an appointment and pay them a visit, then have your measurements done and fabrics picked, finally just wait for 3-4 weeks. That’s it, your very own suit that complements every crevice of your body. As Singapore’s biggest made-to-measure tailor, you can expect nothing less than stylish and sleek from its huge selection of fabrics and customizations. Here, they offer suits and other gentleman apparels for any occasion – from typical two-piece suits to wedding suits and tuxedos – which all differ in price, depending on the materials selected.

Hidden in the shadow of Pinnacle@Duxton is a single-story "C"-shaped Art Deco building. It was once the old Yan Kit Swimming Complex, once the nation's largest and most up-to-date swimming venue. It has since been converted into a new community sports facility with a 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose Court for basketball, netball and volleyball, play gym for children, an area for free play and activities, a functional fitness corner and jogging path, and a green space for lawn bowls or croquet. 

The Ann Siang area is known for its great restaurants and heritage shophouses that warrant a picture for the 'gram but stick around a little and take a little detour from the street and you'll find a lush spot of respite. Who knew that between buildings and offices, there's enough space for a pretty park as well as different tree species, in particular the tamarind, cinnamon, nutmeg and breadfruit trees – all of them useful and handy in the kitchen!