Discovering Robertson Quay On the Singapore River
Robertson Quay Fast Fact
- Robertson Quay was named after a prominent Municipal Councilor, Dr. J. Murray Robertson to be exact.
Robertson Quay was a great big swamp, until it was reclaimed in the 19th century for commerce and land development along the Singapore River. It turned into a wealthy industrial district full of warehouses, shophouses and offices.
The warehouses, or godowns as they were called, were transformed along with the shophouses into restaurants and bars. The area is now referred to as Mohamed Sultan (because of the popular Mohamed Sultan Road nearby).
What should visitors know about Mohamed Sultan Road?
Mohamed Sultan Road is one of three nightlife hubs (the other two include Zouk and Boat Quay). They provide visitors with local color and are very close to each other. This is the prime spot of choice for the younger generations however. When people speak of Mohamed Sultan, they are literally referring to four-blocks surrounded by the Mohamed Sultan Road and the River Valley Road.
This area, encompassing parts of Robertson Walk, Unity Square and Unity Street, had its beginnings with the establishment of Front Page in 1992. It was opened by a wealthy local, Peter Wong, who was into real-estate. Those who followed behind him converted the old shophouses and with time the establishments changed from an “Old Shanghai” style to a trendy and modern atmosphere.
What’s on Mohamed Sultan Road?
Mohamed Sultan is put alive to rap, dance, trance and retro, and visitors can sip on coffee at all hours of the night. Food stalls also cater to those who just don’t want to go home so quickly. Here are some of the businesses that have made visitors return to the Robertson Quay and Mohamed Sultan area:
Next Page
It is basically a follow-up to the popular original, Front Page. It has an extended happy hour and pool tables. It is said to attract a mature crowd.
Dbl O
Pronounced “Double-Oh”, this establishment attracts young professionals and expatriates. It has an impressive sound system, high ceilings, and the music is consistently changed throughout the week to fit everyone’s tastes.
Eastside
This establishment might have a traditional homey atmosphere, but it also has big screen televisions, great martinis, and a crowd that’s into popular music and fashion.
Madam Wong’s:
This is a retro-music club with a Hollywood look of the 1950s, yet it gives into the desires of visitors who want to see some local color. It’s also popular because of a rumor that it is really haunted by Madam Wong’s ghost!
Siam Supperclub:
Siam Supperclub has a steel and glass façade, while inside it has antiques from Thailand and Cambodia accentuated with modern furniture and lighting.
What is Robertson Quay like?
If you want to visit one of Singapore’s quays without the majority of tourists, check out Robertson Quay. Robertson Quay has a lot of business on Robertson Walk and Riverside View: Although Bar has a simple name, it serves premium wine and champagne; Barcelona features world music along with a large variety of wines to choose from.
The Chamber gives visitors a taste of Latin American music and whatever is on the Top 40 list; Provignage is exactly what its other name is (The Wine Cave); last but not least, Riverine Music & Wine Parlour is a friendly joint that offers a pool table as well.
What about Robertson Walk?
Robertson Quay is a great place for some evening entertainment that is laid-back, yet it doesn’t lack the high-class drinking and dining that is offered in other areas. It has art houses and cafés, along with alfresco dining and international foods. There are condominiums and specialized hotels. Executives might find this as a good place to have lunch. Couples might want to stop by at night for a romantic dinner. There are schools of performing arts nearby, along with the Singapore Repertory Theatre.
Tips for Travelers:
- Robertson Walk is located at the following address: 11 Unity Street, Singapore, 237995.
- Families might like the fact the both male and female restrooms at Robertson Walk include diaper-changing stations.
- There is parking Monday through Friday from 6 am to 6 pm, and a different price is offered for parking between the hours of 6 pm and 6 am. Parking on Sunday is free, but remember that things can change.
