Chinatown overview

Given that around 75 per cent of the population is Chinese it comes as no surprise that Singapore has a Chinatown. The traditional home of the founding Chinese community the suburb still maintains an element of old world charm despite the surrounding modernisation. Singapore’s CBD has gradually overflowed into Chinatown and the area which runs from Smith St to Pagoda St has turned into a stock-standard Asian tourist trap for anyone wishing to buy a plastic Buddha or waving cat. The food stalls, mainly Cantonese, are everywhere but many more boutique, i.e. expensive, eateries can be found along Club St. Singapore’s gay community is centred on Tanjong Pagar where beers and boys can be had at a price. The main attraction of Chinatown is the town itself, with pastel shop fronts hosting animated food vendors.