Victoria Street Chijmes Singapore: A Guide to the Iconic Landmark
If you’re looking for a unique and historic destination in Singapore, look no further than Victoria Street’s CHIJMES. This stunning complex was once a Catholic convent, known as the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, and has since been transformed into a dining and entertainment hub that retains its sense of tranquillity and harmony.
As you wander through CHIJMES, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the architecture and the rich history that permeates the complex. From the Gate of Hope, where unwanted babies were left for the nuns to care for, to the stunning Chapel and Caldwell House, there is plenty to explore and discover. And with a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, you can easily spend a whole day or evening enjoying the sights and sounds of this unique destination.
Key Takeaways
- Victoria Street’s CHIJMES is a historic complex that was once a Catholic convent, and has since been transformed into a dining and entertainment hub.
- The complex retains its sense of tranquillity and harmony, making it a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
- With a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, there is plenty to explore and discover at CHIJMES.
History and Heritage
Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus
Victoria Street’s CHIJMES is a historic building complex that was once home to the Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus. The convent was established in 1854 by Father Jean-Marie Beurel, a French priest who arrived in Singapore in 1852. The convent was initially a girls’ school, but it eventually expanded to include an orphanage, a chapel, and a charitable institution.
Transformation into Chijmes
In the 1980s, the convent complex underwent a transformation and was converted into a commercial complex known as CHIJMES. The complex was restored and renovated, and many of its original features were preserved. The Gothic chapel, which was built in 1904, was restored to its former glory, and its stained-glass windows were shipped from Bruges, Belgium.
National Monument Status
In 1990, CHIJMES was declared a national monument by the Singapore government. The complex is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is home to many restaurants, bars, and lifestyle services.
Overall, CHIJMES is a testament to the rich history and heritage of Victoria Street. Its transformation from a convent to a commercial complex has preserved its history while also providing a new lease of life to the iconic building.
Dining and Entertainment
Culinary Delights
Victoria Street’s CHIJMES is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and bars, offering visitors a diverse range of culinary delights. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Asian cuisine, modern fusion dishes or classic Western fare, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste buds.
For a taste of Cantonese cuisine, head to Lei Garden Restaurant, where you can savour delicious dim sum and other classic dishes. If you’re in the mood for something a little more contemporary, try The Glasshouse, a chic restaurant that serves up modern European cuisine with an Asian twist.
Other popular dining spots at CHIJMES include Pemenco, a cosy cafe that specialises in artisanal coffee and delicious pastries, and Almost Famous Craft Beer Bar, which offers a wide selection of craft beers and tasty bar snacks.
Nightlife and Bars
CHIJMES is also a popular nightlife destination, with a range of bars and pubs to suit every taste. Analogue is a trendy speakeasy-style bar that serves up creative cocktails and live music, while Coriander Leaf is a lively bar and restaurant that offers a great selection of Asian-inspired cocktails.
If you’re in the mood for some delicious burgers and craft beer, head to Honbo, a popular burger joint that has recently opened up a new outlet at CHIJMES. Alternatively, if you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, check out Ikkousha Ramen, which serves up delicious bowls of ramen and other classic Japanese dishes.
Events and Celebrations
CHIJMES is also a popular venue for events and celebrations, with a range of spaces available to rent for private functions. The stunning Stained Glass Windows make for a beautiful backdrop for weddings and other special occasions, while the Courtyards are perfect for outdoor events and parties.
The oldest building at CHIJMES, the Gyu-Kaku building, is also available for private hire and is a great option for corporate events and functions.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a night out with friends or a venue for your next big event, CHIJMES has something to offer everyone. With its beautiful ambience, friendly atmosphere and central location in the heart of the city, it’s no wonder that CHIJMES is one of Singapore’s most popular destinations for food, drinks and entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best dining options available at CHIJMES?
CHIJMES offers a wide range of dining options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the popular dining options include Whitegrass, Coriander Leaf, and Lei Garden. Whitegrass is a modern Australian restaurant that serves contemporary dishes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Coriander Leaf serves Asian fusion cuisine with a modern twist, while Lei Garden is known for its delectable Cantonese dishes.
Can you tell me the opening hours for CHIJMES?
CHIJMES is open from 8 am to 3 am from Monday to Friday and from 8.30 am to 4 am on Saturdays and Sundays. However, the opening hours for individual establishments within CHIJMES may vary, so it’s best to check with the specific establishment you wish to visit.
Which establishments can be found in the CHIJMES directory?
CHIJMES is home to a diverse range of establishments, including bars, restaurants, cafes, and retail shops. Some of the popular establishments include The Glasshouse, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline, and The Capitol Kempinski Hotel, a luxury hotel that boasts elegant rooms and suites.
Does CHIJMES Hall have air conditioning for event guests?
Yes, CHIJMES Hall is fully air-conditioned to ensure the comfort of event guests. The hall is an exquisitely restored early Gothic-styled 19th Century chapel with intricate design and detail, making it the perfect location to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Could you share some insights into the history of CHIJMES?
CHIJMES is a historic building complex located in the heart of City Hall. It began life as a Catholic Convent, also known as Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (CHIJ), in the late 19th century. The complex was later converted into a commercial and entertainment hub in the 1990s, while still retaining its historic charm and character.
Who is the current owner of the CHIJMES complex?
CHIJMES is currently owned by Perennial Real Estate Holdings Limited, a Singapore-based real estate company that specializes in developing and managing mixed-use properties. The company acquired the complex in 2010 and has since renovated and revitalized it into a vibrant lifestyle destination.
