You’ve probably heard about Orchard Road, Sentosa Island, Marina Bay and all the other must-visit attractions in Singapore. But save some time for Dempsey Hill — one of Singapore’s lesser known lifestyle destinations featuring some of the newest concepts in an old world setting that anyone can enjoy.

Discover the rich history of Dempsey Hill as you take a stroll along any of its walking trails. Formerly a nutmeg plantation in the 1850s called Mount Harriet, and then repurposed as the military camp that was Tanglin Barracks, Dempsey Hill has been through several transformations. But the heritage site maintains quiet and rustic to this day. Redeveloped in 2007, this tranquil hideaway is now a dining, entertainment and shopping destination.

Retail and dining at COMO Dempsey

An all-round retail and dining establishment that promises a world-class experience, COMO Dempsey houses a variety of original and innovative dining places and concept stores.

Candlenut—the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan* restaurant—is one such tenant. Founded by homegrown chef Malcolm Lee, this 4,262-square-foot restaurant boasts a 92-seat capacity and an al fresco dining area. Its interiors—designed by renowned architect Paola Navone—combine modern design with Candlenut’s signature Peranakan heritage.

Other dining destinations at COMO Dempsey include COMO Cuisine, helmed by chef Timothy de Souza, and Michelin-starred Dempsey Cookhouse & Bar by Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

Another thing to look out for at COMO Dempsey is Dover Street Market Singapore, the newest outlet in the worldwide cult retail series founded by Comme des Garçons designer Rei Kawakubo.

*The term is an Indonesian/Malay word that means “local born”, which generally refers to people of Chinese and Malay/Indonesian heritage.

Fun with the family at Loewen by Dempsey Hill

Plan an enriching weekend for the whole family at Loewen by Dempsey Hill, where you can choose from a multitude of creative programmes for both kids and adults. Opt for pottery classes at Impressions Art Studio, or satisfy that sweet tooth when you attend a chocolate-making workshop at ANJALICHOCALAT. There’s even something for your furry friends — check them in to the Wagington Luxury Pet Hotel for some pampering.

Wine and dine

Explore the array of swanky dining and nightlife options all around Dempsey Hill. Tuck into barbequed delights and quench your thirst with a selection of tipples at The Green Door’s garden bar, or check out Red Dot Brewhouse for a hearty menu of steaks and beers. Get your fill of local cuisine, too, at the famed Long Beach Seafood Restaurant, and Samy’s Curry.

If Sunday brunch is up your alley, opt for a weekend tapas buffet at Don Quijote or, go green and experience Open Farm Community’s refreshing farm-to-table concept. The latter is helmed by world-renowned chef Ryan Clift, with dishes created from locally farmed ingredients.

Shop with sophistication

Enjoy an artisanal shopping experience at various homeware stores, where you can find unconventional souvenirs or trinkets to bedeck your home. Stop by Woody Antique House, a haven for collectors of Asian antiquities, or MÖBEL STORY, a local homeware store that carries handcrafted designs.

If you’re planning to pamper yourself while engaging in retail therapy, be sure to indulge in a relaxing massage at apothecary-spa Spa Esprit or stock up on beauty products from Aesop or MALIN+GOETZ.

To get to Dempsey Hill, hop on a shuttle bus at their many pick-up points. View the shuttle bus schedule, and visit Dempsey Hill’s official website for more information.