Clarke Quay stands out as one of Singapore’s most vibrant districts for locals seeking food, drinks, and an electric night out. Once a bustling 19th-century trade hub, it has transformed into a riverside hotspot that blends heritage charm with modern entertainment.
Whether you’re craving late-night bites, riverside cocktails, or live music, this guide covers all the essential Clarke Quay experiences tailored for locals.
Historical Significance and Heritage
Clarke Quay’s story begins in the early 1800s when it served as a crucial dock for loading and unloading cargo destined for warehouses and commercial establishments along the Singapore River. After port activities gradually relocated to Keppel Harbour and other areas from the mid-1800s onwards, coupled with the Singapore River cleanup efforts in the early 1980s, Clarke Quay fell into decline.
However, recognising its historical significance, the government designated it as a heritage conservation area on July 7, 1989. This marked the beginning of an ambitious revitalisation project that would transform the area into a premier commercial and entertainment district while preserving its architectural heritage.
Clarke Quay’s Food Spots
With Clarke Quay’s transformation into a day-to-night precinct, the dining scene has flourished. From hawker-style meals to Michelin-inspired bistros, the area caters to every appetite and budget. Here’s what locals are queuing for.
Local Restaurant
1. SG Hawker stands out as a modernised kopitiam serving authentic Singaporean street food 24/7, including Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, Char Kway Teow, and Fish Ball Noodles. Their signature Soup Noodle with Fish Maw (S$9) is particularly noteworthy, featuring a rich broth simmered for over three hours with fresh pork bones, chicken bones, and special essences.
High-End and International Cuisine
Clarke Quay’s dining scene extends well beyond local fare.
2. Kee’s (21 Carpenter Street) represents the high-end dining segment, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Andrew Walsh and Executive Chef Iswardy Hamzah.
- European flavours with Pan-Asian influences
- Highlights: Ribeye steak frites, Japanese Red Sea Bream with green curry emulsion, chocolate mousse, tiramisu
3. Señor Taco Clarke Quay brings authentic Mexican cuisine to the riverside, operating until 3 AM on weekends.
4. HANJIP Korean Grill House offers premium Korean barbecue featuring Australian Wagyu and USDA Prime Beef.
5. TOMO Izakaya provides Japanese dining with grilled skewers and hand-rolled sushi, complete with outdoor seating offering Singapore River views
6. Zorba The Greek Taverna creates a Santorini-inspired atmosphere with Mediterranean dishes, such as Htapothi Sti Skhara (grilled octopus).
7. House of Seafood specialises in award-winning Black Pepper Crab (S$70/kg) and other seafood specialities in an al fresco waterfront setting
The 2024 revamp has introduced several exciting new dining concepts:
- FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay features a unique Grocer Food Hall with vendors offering heritage dishes that honour the area’s history, plus an exclusive cocktail bar with locally-inspired flavours.
- The Central Perk (F.R.I.E.N.D.S Cafe) offers a themed dining experience for fans of the popular sitcom.
Swee Lee Clarke Quay
Swee Lee combines a retail space for musical instruments and audio equipment with a café and bar, creating a cultural hub for music lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
- Music Retail Store: Offers a wide range of musical instruments and gear, including guitars, basses, amplifiers, pedals, DJ equipment, professional audio gear, vinyl records, and accessories from top brands such as Fender, Taylor, Martin, and Heritage Guitars.
- In-House Café & Bar: Serves locally roasted coffee, craft beers, natural wines, speciality espresso drinks, and a menu of flavorful dishes and desserts prepared fresh daily. The café features a vinyl bar and listening stations where customers can enjoy curated records while dining.
- Live Performances & Artist Lounge: Hosts live music events and supports local talent through an artist program, providing a platform for emerging musicians to showcase their craft.
Clarke Quay Bars and Nightlife
Clarke Quay’s reputation as Singapore’s premier nightlife destination is well-established and continues to evolve. The area truly comes alive after sunset, transforming from a scenic riverside dining destination into a pulsating entertainment hub.
Iconic Nightclubs
Zouk remains Clarke Quay’s crown jewel and one of Asia’s most renowned nightclubs. Originally opened in 1991, Zouk relocated to Clarke Quay in December 2016 and has won the Singapore Tourism Board’s “Best Nightspot Experience” award six times between 1996 and 2007. The club has been ranked among DJ Magazine’s Top 100 clubs globally, reaching number 3 in 2017. The current Zouk complex features multiple rooms catering to different musical tastes:
- Zouk Main Room: The largest space with capacity for over 3,500 people
- Capital: A sophisticated club for working professionals with a capacity for 540 guests, featuring strict dress codes and minimum age requirements.
- Phuture: Focuses on urban, hip hop, and R&B music with a 500-person capacity.
The complex also includes RedTail Bar, a pre-game destination offering cocktails, bar food, and games like beer pong and Jenga.
Diverse Entertainment Options
Beyond Zouk, Clarke Quay offers numerous entertainment venues.
- Level Up combines arcade gaming with bar service, providing nostalgic entertainment.
- Cash Studio Clarke Quay Central offers karaoke facilities.
- Chupitos provides local nightlife experiences.
- Here Kitty Kitty operates as a speakeasy bar (not a Hello Kitty-themed venue despite the name) serving cocktails and Japanese bar bites.
- Kanpai789 adds to the diverse drinking scene.
What to Do Beyond Food & Drinks
Clarke Quay offers more than meals and music. For those looking to explore during the day, or just do something different, these options provide added entertainment.
Clarke Quay River Cruise
Ideal for families, couples or anyone who wants a break from the crowd. This leisurely cruise blends sightseeing with storytelling along Singapore’s historic waterway. A 40-minute bumboat ride from Clarke Quay Jetty offers scenic views of Boat Quay, Marina Bay Sands, and colonial bridges. Ideal during sunset. Tickets from S$28.
Adventure Activities
For the thrill-seekers, Clarke Quay delivers with adrenaline-pumping attractions that stay open into the night. Perfect for those who want action with their nightlife.
GX-5 Extreme Swing (Slingshot Singapore) – catapults riders 40-70 meters above the Singapore River at speeds exceeding 120 kph.
- Operating hours: 4:30 PM to 11:30 PM on weekdays and until 1:30 AM on weekends
River Cruises and Water Activities
The Singapore River Cruise Experience represents one of Clarke Quay’s most popular daytime activities. Operating from Clarke Quay Jetty, these cruises use traditional bumboats to navigate the Singapore River, offering views of iconic landmarks including Marina Bay Sands, the Merlion Park, and colourful shophouses.
- Operating hours: Monday to Thursday 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Friday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Shopping at Clarke Quay Central
While Clarke Quay is primarily known for dining and nightlife, it offers decent shopping opportunities, particularly when combined with the nearby Clarke Quay Central shopping mall.
Clarke Quay Central serves as the primary shopping destination with over 150 retail stores. This mall, situated directly above Clarke Quay MRT station, offers a mix of fashion and beauty outlets, lifestyle stores, and popular dining establishments, including Chilli’s American Grill & Bar and several Japanese restaurants.
For unique shopping experiences, visitors can explore boutique stores and art galleries scattered throughout the area. The historic architecture provides an atmospheric backdrop for shopping, making it more experiential than purely transactional.
Getting to Clarke Quay
With Clarke Quay’s appeal spanning dining, retail, nightlife, and riverside scenery, getting there easily matters. Thanks to its central location and multiple transport options, you can reach Clarke Quay by MRT, car, bus, or even river taxi. Here’s how locals prefer to get around.
Clarke Quay MRT Station (NE5)
The most convenient way to reach Clarke Quay is via the North East Line. Alight at Clarke Quay MRT (NE5) and use Exit C to arrive right in front of Clarke Quay Central. It’s a short walk from there to the restaurants, bars, and riverfront. Avoid peak commuter hours if you’re planning to arrive after work.
Other nearby MRT stations:
- Fort Canning (DT20) – Downtown Line
- City Hall (NS25/EW13) – About a 10-minute walk
Parking Around Clarke Quay
For those driving, parking is available at:
- Clarke Quay Central Carpark (direct access to dining/shopping)
- The Central Mall Carpark (Eu Tong Sen Street)
- Tan Tye Place & Carpenter Street (street parking)
How to Get to Aemorph from Clarke Quay
Aemorph is located at LEAGOO Pte Ltd, 34 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058668, just a short walk from Clarke Quay.
Walking Directions:
- From Clarke Quay MRT Exit E, walk towards South Bridge Road via Read Bridge.
- Cross the bridge and turn right.
- Aemorph is located approximately 300 metres down South Bridge Road, a 5-minute walk away.
By MRT: Take the North East Line from Clarke Quay MRT (NE5) and travel one stop to Chinatown MRT (NE4/DT19). Use Exit E and walk along South Bridge Road; it’s around 6–8 minutes on foot from the station.
By Car or Taxi: Input “34 South Bridge Road” into your ride-hailing app. There is limited street parking nearby, so drop-off is recommended during peak hours.
Making the Most of Your Clarke Quay Visit
Clarke Quay blends music, dining, culture, and adventure into one of Singapore’s most vibrant day-to-night destinations. Whether you’re crate-digging at Swee Lee, enjoying a riverside dinner, or diving into nightlife at Zouk or a hidden speakeasy, there’s no shortage of ways to make it your own.
- Start earlier: Beat the crowds by exploring in the late afternoon and staying through the evening.
- Plan around your mood: Chill with vinyl and coffee, or go full-throttle with thrill rides and dance floors.
- Try what’s less obvious: Beyond the main bars, explore rooftop views, arcade bars, or a heritage cruise.
- Use the MRT for entry, ride-hailing for late-night exits: It’s the easiest combo to avoid traffic and long waits.
Clarke Quay rewards those who come with a plan, as well as those who come ready to explore.
