Social Media

back

River Valley Neighbourhood Guide: What to Do, Where to Stay & Robertson Quay Restaurants

river valley neighbourhood guide
EatPost Category - EatEat - Post Category - Eating OutEating Out - Post Category - Family FriendlyFamily FriendlyFamily LifePost Category - Family LifeFamily Life - Post Category - Mama About TownMama About TownPlayPost Category - PlayPlay

Check out our guide to the River Valley – a lovely neighbourhood with river views, known for its endless selection of kid-friendly cafes, bars and restaurants in Robertson Quay

Looking for restaurants in Robertson Quay? Or maybe you want to get an idea of the whole neighbourhood as you’re considering a condo there? River Valley is known for being relaxed and family-friendly, with plenty of great dining options and a playground or two for the kids. It’s easily accessible now thanks to Fort Canning MRT (Downtown Line), Great World MRT and Havelock MRT (Thomson-East Coast Line), and well serviced by buses along River Valley Road. Once you’re there you can head out on foot and literally walk the river from end to end – from Great World City to the Esplanade. Nothing quite like exercising in fresh air! Kids can scoot or bike along the river paths in relative safety (very few roads to cross!) and there are endless spots to stop and play, eat (take your pick from one of the many Robertson Quay restaurants!) or get that perfect family selfie. You may even spot otters who sometimes make themselves at home along this section of the river.

Click to jump to…

Where to Eat: Robertson Quay Restaurants
What to Do 
Where to stay

Robertson Quay Restaurants

We could be here for days exploring ALL the restaurants Robertson Quay and River Valley has to offer. Many of them appear in our kid-friendly dining guide, but broadly speaking you’ll find the Robertson Quay restaurants make up the bulk of eateries in the area. During the weekdays this neighbourhood is relatively quiet, but Sunday mornings and dusk most evenings see the area come alive!

Kubô: new Filipino restaurant

Robertson Quay Restaurants Kubo Filipino
Image credit: Kubô

Kubô is one of the latest openings in Robertson Quay. It’s a beautiful space with outdoor seating as well as indoor seating. Sit up close to all the action at the counter overlooking the long open kitchen with its traditional brick oven and discover a contemporary take on traditional Filipino cuisine. Try the Honeycomb Tripe ($12) – crunchy beef tripe, House-aged Duck ($42), Duck Fat BBQ Corn ($12) and Kubô’s rendition of Pork Longganissa ($20).
Kubô, Unit #01-12 The Pier at Robertson, 80 Mohamed Sultan Rd Singapore 239013


Aburiya Japanese Wagyu Yakiniku

robertson quay restaurants river valley aburiya japanese wagyu yakiniku
Image: Aburiya Japanese Wagyu Yakiniku

Kid-friendly yakiniku that will have kids entertained while keeping mama and dad’s tummies satisfied!
Aburiya Japanese Wagyu Yakiniku, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-03 The Quayside, Singapore 238252


BAKALAKI Greek Taverna

Looking for Greek food in Robertson Quay? You’ll find BAKALAKI along Martin Road, where Jypsy used to be. They’ve got spacious interiors, plus their food has been mentioned as arguably the best Greek food in Singapore!
BAKALAKI Greek Taverna, 38A Martin Road, Singapore 239072


Bar Bar Black Sheep

Better known as the bar with three separate kitchens, Bar Bar Black Sheep serves Indian, Thai and Western cuisine!
Bar Bar Black Sheep, 86 Robertson Quay, #01-04, Singapore 238245


Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse

Along Mohamed Sultan Road you’ll find some impressive fine dining options, one of them being Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse. This Italian steakhouse serves traditional Tuscan sharing steaks and authentic Italian cuisine with a fab wine selection – great if you’re craving some quality steak.
Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse26 Mohamed Sultan Rd, Singapore 238970


Botany

robertson quay river valley restaurants botany
Image: BOTANY

This cafe concept in Robertson Quay features wholesome food and also happens to be Insta-gorgeous. Click here to read the interview we did with founder and fellow mama, Cassandra Tan!
Botany, 86 Robertson Quay, #01-03 Next to M Social Hotel, Singapore 238245


Boomarang

This actually fits the bill for kid-friendly cafes, restaurants AND bars!
Boomarang, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-15 The Quayside, Singapore 238252


The Book Café

robertson quay restaurants river valley the book cafe
Image: The Book Café

Serving all-day breakfast, brunch and dinner seven days a week, The Book Café is a cosy little spot to grab a bite and browse through the many books and magazines available.
The Book Café, 20 Martin Road, River Valley, Singapore 239070


Carrotsticks and Cravings

Perfectly located along the canal, we love Carrotsticks and Cravings for its healthy options (vegan and vegetarian dishes available!) and dog-friendliness. Kids can scoot or run around in the open space next to the cafe!
Carrotsticks and Cravings, 7 Rodyk Street, #01-34, Singapore 238216


Cibo Italiano

Pizzas, pastas and wine, oh my! Cibo Italiano works for date night, girls’ night and family dinners.
Cibo Italiano, 428 River Valley Road, #01-01/2, Singapore 248327


Common Man Coffee Roasters

Expect some queues on the weekends, plus stairs that don’t make it easy for strollers to access, but the menu of hearty, healthy meals here make up for it! Upstairs, on the same floor as Yoga Movement, is where you’ll find their sister cafe Grounded.
Common Man Coffee Roasters, 22 Martin Road, Singapore 239058


Craftsmen Specialty Coffee

robertson quay restaurants river valley craftsmen specialty coffee mohamed sultan
Image: Craftsmen Specialty Coffee

Brunch with a side of good coffee, anyone? The menu here is vast – from savoury breakfast platters to sweet tea time treats, ice cream and even special ice blended signature drinks – so no matter your craving, you’ll find it!
Craftsmen Specialty Coffee33 Mohamed Sultan Rd, #01-05, Singapore 238977


Dabbawalla

If you’re craving some good Indian food, look to Dabbawalla for incredible Mumbai inspired-food located around the corner next to the kids’ playground in Robertson Quay!
Dabbawalla, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-10/11, Singapore 238252


Decker Barbecue

Here’s another one for the meat lovers! You’ll find ‘legit American BBQ’ here, with a menu that boasts sharing platters, tacos and smoked options for the whole family.
Decker Barbecue, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-17, Singapore 238252


DOP Mozzarella Bar

Simply delicious, authentic Italian food at Quayside! From the fertile plain of, where The owner Luca Iannone hails from the Campania Region of Italy, where the unique Mozzarella di Bufala Denomination di Origin (D.O.P. , otherwise known as protected origin denomination) is produced.
DOP Mozzarella Bar, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-04A The Quayside, Singapore 238252


The English House

robertson quay restaurants river valley english house sunday roast
Image: The English House

Founded by none other than Marco Pierre White, this restaurant in the Roberston Quay area is one to put on your list for special occasions, or if you’re craving a great Sunday roast.
The English House, 28 Mohamed Sultan Rd, Singapore 238972


Fine Dining Bakery by Akira M

Founded by French-trained Japanese baker Akira (who previously worked at Joel Robuchon!), Fine Dining Bakery by Akira M serves authentic handcrafted breads using Hokkaido flours. We can vouch for the chocolate croissants and there are plenty of tables if you want to explore the lunch menu.
Fine Dining Bakery by Akira M, 207 River Valley Rd, #01-59 UE Square, Singapore 238275


Ju Shin Jung

On the far side of the Pier is Robertson Walk, also affectionately known as the ‘the Courtyard’ as it resembles a Mediterranean Town square. Popular hangouts here include Ju Shin Jung for authentic Korean BBQ!
Ju Shin Jung, 11 Unity St #01-30 Robertson Walk Singapore 237995


Kith Cafe

You’ll find excellent Australian style coffee at this super kid-friendly cafe on Robertson Quay.
Kith Cafe, 7 Rodyk Street, Robertson Quay, #01-28, 238215


Les Bouchons

robertson quay restaurants river valley les bouchons
Image: Les Bouchons

Located in a kid-friendly, pet-friendly space beside the playground at Rob Quay, Les Bouchons is great for Sunday brunches. Try their Grilled Black Angus Rib Eye Steak with free flow homemade French fries, and Nutella crepes for the kids!
Les Bouchons, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-02, Singapore 238252


Peperoni Pizzeria

Using a wood fired oven, the pizza at Peperoni Pizzeria is thin and crispy while the toppings and tomato sauce is always fresh. They also serve delicious pasta and a wide range of appetisers including fried calamari!
Peperoni Pizzeria56 Zion Road, Singapore 247781


Privé

Along the river from Alkaff Bridge you’ll find Privé at STPI, with a great view of the canal while you indulge in a hearty meal or hang out with friends for cocktails as evening approaches. Expect delicious brunch favourites, Asian delights and Western fare.
Privé Robertson QuaySTPI, 41 Robertson Quay, #01-01 / #02-02 41, Singapore 238236


Publico Ristorante

Part of the InterContinental Robertson Quay, Publico is great for date night, or a night out with the girls – grab a rattan lounge and dine alfresco, surrounded by twinkling lights and greenery.
Publico Ristorante, 1 Nanson Rd, Singapore 238909


Shabestan

robertson quay restaurants river valley shabestan persian

Along Roberston Quay you’ll find Shabestan, offering outstanding authentic Persian cuisine. You’ll find appetizers and dips served with warm Iranian breads on the menu, along with kebabs (the lamb kebabs are a top favourite), lamb fillets and chops. There’s also a selection of Persian stews, rice dishes and of course, dessert if you have room for anything more.
Shabestan, 80 Mohamed Sultan Rd, #01-13, Singapore 239013


Super Loco

robertson quay river valley restaurants super loco
Image: Super Loco Robertson Quay

Dining at Super Loco is always fun thanks to the upbeat music (try and resist dancing while you chow down on a taco…) and colourful interiors. They also do themed events on special occasions like Halloween and Christmas, so make a beeline for it with the kids to keep them entertained for the afternoon!
Super Loco, 60 Robertson Quay, The Quayside #01-13, Singapore 238252


Tapas,24

Located at the heart of Robertson Quay near the Alkaff Bridge, Tapas,24 is known for its great food and plenty of room for kids to run and scoot!
Tapas,24, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-04 The Quayside, Singapore 238252


TAP Craft Beer Bar

TAP Craft Beer Bar combines great beer (20 rotating international craft beers on draft!) with a menu packed with comfort food classics.
TAP Craft Beer Bar, 86 Robertson Quay #01-02, Singapore 238245


Three Buns

robertson quay restaurants river valley three buns burgers hot dogd
Image: Three Buns

Dog-friendly and kid-friendly Three Buns serves up some serious burgers (their meat alternative options are stellar if you’re looking to go meat-free) with a fab dessert menu to finish off your meal!
Three Buns, 60 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238252


Toby’s Estate

Great stroller access, small but yummy breakfast menu, great coffees and pastries… Need we say more? Take your pick of indoor-outdoor seating at Toby’s Estate!
Toby’s Estate, 8 Rodyk St, Singapore 238216


Wine Connection Cheese Bar

This spot within Robertson Walk boasts a selection of over 40 matured farm cheeses air-flown from Europe weekly (available for takeaway and dine-in!). The menu is created around cheese, naturally, with a variety of hearty salads and ‘tartines’ (open sandwiches), plus cheese and cold cuts platters.
Wine Connection Cheese Bar, 11 Unity Street, #01-05, Singapore 237995


Wolfgang’s Steakhouse

best steak in singapore Wolfgang's Steakhouse Singapore
Image: Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Singapore

For superb steaks you’ll have to check out Wolfgang’s Steakhouse at InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, with menu offerings that give homage to its New York roots.
Wolfgang’s Steakhouse1 Nanson Road 02-01 InterContinental Singapore, Robertson Quay, Singapore 238909


Yakiniku YAZAWA

Yakiniku YAZAWA is another restaurant in Robertson Quay for excellent, grill-it-yourself wagyu!
Yakiniku YAZAWA, 11 Unity St, #01-01 Robertson Walk, 237995


Zion Road Food Centre

Zion Road Food Centre has been around forever and is an important River Valley institution for local food (check out their No 18 Zion Road Fried Kway Teow – considered by some to be the best in Singapore!).
Zion Road Food Centre70 Zion Rd, Singapore 247792


MANY of the aforementioned restaurants also have excellent drinks menus, but if you’re specifically looking for a bar you’ve got plenty of options. For a more relaxed option just head to the middle of Robertson Walk and you can take your pick – there are so many to choose from – and most will be screening the latest sporting event.

If you’re feeling brave, head to Ziggy’s for karaoke – it’s a high-end experience with private rooms, bar menu, and even costumes. For something fancier, head to the dark, moody bar at The Warehouse Hotel; check out Maison du Whisky – you’ll pay an entry fee of $15 but they keep you well stocked with intriguing bar snacks, the service is exceptional and they have a spectacular selection of whiskey!

River Valley Malls

River Valley is home to three great shopping malls: Great World City, Valley Point and UE Square

Great World City

The biggest mall in the area, and recently refurbished too! (Read more about GWC here.) GWC has a gym, a cinema, Sephora, Uniqlo, Zara, Browhaus and a range of kids’ shops and enrichment centres. There are some fab dining options here, too, including – Din Tai Fung, Tim Ho Wan and Hototogisu Ramen, as well as two big supermarkets, CS Fresh by Cold Storage and Meidi-Ya.

Giant indoor playground Amazonia is a hit with kids, and you could easily spend a couple of hours here before venturing out in search of lunch. Try the Food Junction on Level 3, head to family favourites like Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Bangkok Jam, Starbucks or Cedele.

Valley Point

This neighbourhood mall has become something of a destination, thanks to Little Farms. The large produce store and café offers a wide range of fresh, organic and healthy products, while the café serves up delicious breakfasts, lunches and coffees. Dog lovers can bring their fur-babies out for coffee too if they sit at the outside tables!

For dinner you can’t go wrong with 2it&drink – casual Italian food from the team behind OTTO Ristorante. A Fairprice Finest is small but stocks a good range of products, and you’ll also find a pet store and animal clinic, as well as a nail salon, food court and Starbucks.

UE Square

dutch colony river valley ue square
Grab a coffee at Dutch Colony Cafe at UE Square (Image credit: Dutch Colony)

Levels 2 & 3 are mostly dedicated to preschools and enrichment classes, including Superland Preschool and My Ballet Studio, as well as enrichment centres like Kumon, Art Zone and Wolfgang Violin Studio, although you’ll also find a Cold Storage and a small Guardian on Level 2. The ever popular Power Kids, which offers classes, open gym sessions and fun birthday parties, is located on Level 2. Dad can head to Azami Barber for a cut, shave and massage while the kids play.

It’s not all about the kids though! On the ground floor, you’ll find some appealing places for the grownups too. Dutch Colony do just about the best coffee in Singapore, along with some delicious light meals. Grab some delicious authentic Vietnamese food at Moc Quan, the Banh Mi and spring rolls will be a hit with the kids. Beer connoisseurs will delight in the selection at Temple Cellars, which also stocks a range of boutique spirits – sit down in the small, elegant bar or grab something to take away. Next door you’ll find the Straits Wine Company.

What to Do in River Valley

hong san see temple river valley Hong San See Temple on Mohamed Sultan Road (Image credit: Choo Yut Shing via Flickr)

For the active crowd, visit The Herencia, slightly hidden off Kim Yam Road, which houses The Moving Body – Singapore’s largest Pilates studio, offering Pilates, gyrotonic and physiotherapy, as well as Amped Trampoline Park, where kids and grownups can bounce away to their hearts’ content. Feeling brave? Try reverse bungee jumping at Clarke Quay with Slingshot Singapore – they even videotape you as you’re going up, so you can re-live the memories for years to come. Kids can run wild at Jubilee Playground, while Fort Canning offers some beautiful gardens and makes for a fascinating history lesson. If you want to escape the heat, but still want the kids to burn off some energy, head to Waka Waka at Furama Riverfront. Free Wi-Fi and lots of seating for the grownups make this one of our favourite indoor playgrounds!

On the other hand if you’re looking for a touch of culture, head to the quaint South Indian Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, home to the annual Thaipusam festival in Singapore, or the Chinese Hong San See Temple on Mohamed Sultan Road, renowned for its beautifully restored rooftop dragon carvings. Culture vultures (even the littlies!) can also catch a show at Singapore Repertory Theatre’s home base on Merbau Road or check out the latest exhibition at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute(free!) above Privé.

Where to stay in River Valley: Condos, Apartments & Hotels

river valley neighbourhood guide warehouse hotel
From seedy godown to luxury boutique hotel (Image credit: The Warehouse Hotel)

Looking for a house in River Valley? Poshly known as District 9 in property market circles, River Valley is home to some of Singapore’s most family-friendly condos, including Rivergate, Aspen Heights, River Place and Regency Park. If you’re looking for a serviced apartment, Village Residence at Roberston QuayGreat World Serviced Apartments at Great World City, UE Square Residences or the Fraser Residences at both Valley Point and Robertson Walk are all located in the thick of things.

As for hotels, choose from several lining the river, such as the Intercontinental Singapore Robertson QuayM SocialGrand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, and Four Points by Sheraton. For something a little trendier, stay at The Warehouse Hotel – a meticulously restored heritage building that used to be at the centre of Singapore’s seedier side, but now offers a refined take on luxury boutique accommodation. On the other end of the spectrum, Furama Riverfront offers family-friendly rooms and is directly connected to popular indoor playground Waka Waka!

So there you have it Mama! If you know of any hidden gems that we’ve yet to discover, drop us a note at [email protected] and we’ll be sure to check it out.

Lead image courtesy of Blub Creative

more sassy mama

What's New

We're social

We're social

What we're up to and what inspires us