What used to be a boring suburban town is now a idyllic riverfront destination. Nestled in the north eastern part of the island, Punggol is now home to hip bars, quaint cafés, prawning ponds, a stable and a futsal pitch. Watch out East Coast, Punggol looks like it might just give you a run for your money!
Pssst, if you like this, check out the heaps of our other neighbourhood guides.
Whisk and Paddle
This massive open-air bistro provides tranquil views of the river and offers a plethora of comfort grub like macaroni and cheese ($12.80), pulled pork soft tacos ($17) and Eggs Benedict smoked salmon served atop waffles ($13). This spacious riverside café is also a charming watering hole in the evening – perfect for kicking back over cocktails and some bar bites.
Whisk and Paddle, #01-01, 10 Tebing Lane, Singapore 828836, p. 6242 4617.
Frienzie Bar & Bistro
Opposite Whisk and Paddle is Frienzie Bar & Bistro, a water-facing gastro-bar that’s usually packed by 7pm. It’s easy to see why: the place provides panoramic views overlooking the meandering river, and serve hearty western bites such as buffalo wings ($8.90), sirloin steak ($22.90) and char broiled filet mignon ($25.90).
Frienzie Bar & Bistro, #01-02, 10 Tebing Lane, Singapore 828836, p. 6441 0966.
Spicy BBQ ribs are one of Fur Kicks’ most popular mains
Fur Kicks
Cool, urban and slick, this watering hole claims to house the largest selection of Paulaner beers on tap. Their lagers and wheat beers are affordably priced from $9 for a pint, but if you like something sweet, order their bestseller – Paulaner beer mixed with lime or lychee juice (from $23). Those feeling peckish can order starters such as tomato and mushroom ragout bruschetta ($6), fried chicken wings with barbecued sauce ($8) and mains such as spicy BBQ ribs ($28).
Fur Kicks, #02-03 The Punggol Settlement, 3 Punggol Point Road, Singapore 828694, p. 6702 6366.
Horizon Bistronomy
For a spot of French, this gourmet eatery won’t disappoint. The star attraction is the Horizon Pork Two Way ($25), which comprises a 24-hour slow-braised pork belly and grilled Kurobuta pork tenderloin served with cauliflower puree. Bon appetit!
Horizon Bistronomy, #02-04, The Punggol Settlement, 3 Punggol Point Road, Singapore 828694, p. 6702 2855.
Paddlepop cakes take centre stage at Cravings
Cravings
This rustic themed bakery brims with good vibes, good food and good prices. Go for their bestseller, the vibrant and colourful Paddlepop Cheesecake. Not only does this dessert joint open its doors for gatherings, birthdays or bachelorette parties, they also rent out their kitchen to home-bakers and online bakeries looking to establish a production base.
Cravings, #01-05, 6 Tebing Lane, Singapore 828835.
Trunk At Bay
Eat like you’re in the Land of Smiles at this 100-seater restaurant, which offer traditional Thai favourites like green chicken curry ($11.90) and fish cakes ($11.90), as well as non-Thai items like the deep fried pork knuckle ($18.90) and salt-baked sea bass ($32.00). Their shredded coconut and prawns are also a must-try.
Trunk At Bay, #02-06, The Punggol Settlement, 3 Punggol Point Road, Singapore 828694, p. 6702 7072.
Just The Place
The cosy, warm and woody interior makes a great accompaniment to the European offerings on the menu. Save space for its pan-fried salmon steak with cream sauce and pilaf rice ($20.90) and lobster pasta ($22.90). On a hot day, cool off with some wine spritzers, ciders and beers (from $7.90) whilst taking in the view of the straits at its outdoor dining area.
Just The Place, #02-07/08, The Punggol Settlement, 3 Punggol Point Road, Singapore 828694, p. 6702 7370.
You’d be able to spot Rilek 1 Korner’s bright and vibrant green signboard anywhere!
Rilek 1 Korner
Simple and unpretentious, Rilek 1 Korner is a halal establishment offering simple yet satisfying local food like kampung fried rice, sambal stingray and seafood hor fun. Don’t forget to order their tea while you’re at it!
Rilek 1 Korner, #02-02, The Punggol Settlement, 3 Punggol Point Road, Singapore 828694, p. 8201 4214.
Wayne’s Chill Out
Sitting at the far end of Punggol Settlement is this a 40-seat ice-cream parlour, which offers 12 flavours of delectable and dreamy ice cream flavours such as chardonnay raspberry sorbet and cheesecake with raspberries ($5.00 per scoop). If you’d like a slice of pizza to go along with your tasty treat, try their smoked chicken and pineapple ($12.80).
Wayne’s Chill Out, #02-11, The Punggol Settlement, 3 Punggol Point Road, Singapore 828694.
Bacon & Booze
The name says it all. This no-frills hideaway will please bacon lovers with options such as crispy bacon salad ($9.00), bacon wrap chicken strips ($10) and bacon rolls ($10). Come by on Saturday nights for some live performances by dynamic duo, Marcus and Deborah.
Bacon & Booze, 900 Punggol End, Singapore 829168, p. 6489 5679.
Ride into the wind at Gallop Stables
Horse-riding at Gallop Stables
Surprise surprise: there’s a horse-riding facility out in Punggol, guys. Gallop Stables offers one-time, semi- private or fully-private horse-riding lessons. All lessons are 30 to 45 minutes and priced at $85 on weekdays and $95 on weekends. Seasoned equestrian can lease a horse, go for the trail rides, or do a self-ride unaccompanied.
Gallop Stables Punggol, 900 Punggol Road, Singapore 829168, p. 6690 0900.
Hai Bin Prawning
Prawning is big in Singapore, and this facility, which gets crowded on weekends, is proof. There are two prawning ponds, and rates start at $18 an hour with an additional $5 to rent a rod. When the time is up, cook a delicious feast with your catch. Barbecue pits, charcoal, fire-starters, satay sticks, salt and chilli are part of the price.
Hai Bin Prawning, #01-04, 6 Tebing Lane, Singapore 828835, p. 6447 8693.
Gather a group of friends and immerse yourself in a game of futsal
Futsal at Sports Planet
Soccer fanatics, welcome to your playground. There are three artificial turf pitches on the Sports Planet grounds, and prices start at $40/hour and can shoot up to $98/hour during peak periods.
Sports Planet, #01-05, Sports Hub Punggol, 6 Tebing Lane, Singapore 828835, p. 9644 3715.
Rent a bicycle at Punggol Promenade
…for the beautiful view of the mangrove vegetation and the meandering river along Punggol Promenade. Perfect if you need to unwind after a long work week.
Go Cycling Singapore, Punggol Jetty, p. 9859 0053.