These colourful Peranakan terrace houses along Koon Seng Road is probably the most photographed place in the eastern part of Singapore. I get to enjoy this view every morning on my way to work - of both the architecture and its admirers, which are mostly tourists. Joo Chiat is indeed a very charming place. Besides being a heritage conservation area, this place has an eclectic mix of the old and the new. Old school eateries sit alongside hipster cafes and ice-cream parlours, while KTV and bars are nestled amongst boutique hotels and design studios. Most importantly, Joo Chiat is also well-loved by the locals for its wide array of good food, from the famous Katong Laksa to herbal Bak Kut Teh and Nonya Kuehs.

Located somewhere off the beaten path, surrounded by rustic vibes and lush greenery, JBCS is a place for ceramic enthusiasts. Besides housing a community of potters and artists working with clay, this place has a gallery, sells pottery related materials and equipment and offers classes for anyone who is interested to get acquainted with pottery. In here also lies a part of Singapore’s pottery heritage, one of the last two remaining dragon kilns.

There are plenty of food outlets and restaurants along East Coast Road but this one in particular is my favourite. An old-school eatery with absolutely no-frills, from the interior to the food they serve. They only sell Niang Tou Fu (primarily tofu and vegetables stuffed with ground meat mixture or fish paste) here which is only SGD 70 cents per piece and sour plum drink, both homemade I think. Would highly recommend the crispy deep fried beancurd and add the chilli paste if you like it spicy. Do not expect top-notch service here though, after all its no-frills.

A curatorial space that houses a gallery, a retail and a communal space for anyone interested in art and design. With a changeover every 6 weeks, the gallery space showcases artworks of international artists as well as local artists that are new or under-the-radar. The retail space stocks a healthy mix of gifts, accessories and lifestyle products from local and international makers and retailers. The communal space offers free wi-fi and holds workshops periodically.