A Guide to Peranakan Culture in Singapore

The Peranakans — also known as Straits Chinese or Baba-Nyonya — are a unique cultural group descended from Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago and intermarried with local Malays. In Singapore, Peranakan heritage is a vibrant tapestry woven through architecture, cuisine, fashion, and traditions.

Whether you're a culture lover or foodie, here's how to immerse yourself in Peranakan Singapore:

1. A Quick History of the Peranakans

• The term "Peranakan" means “locally born” in Malay.

• Most Peranakans are descendants of Chinese traders who settled in port cities like Malacca and later Singapore.

• They adopted many local customs and language (Baba Malay), while retaining distinct Chinese beliefs.

• The culture peaked during the British colonial period, reflected in their language, fashion, and homes — a fusion of East and West.

2. Where to Explore Peranakan Heritage

Katong & Joo Chiat

• The cultural heart of Singapore's Peranakan community.

• Stroll past beautifully restored Peranakan shophouses along Koon Seng Road — pastel facades, intricate tiles, and ornate wooden windows.

• The neighborhood is packed with traditional eateries and bakeries.

Peranakan Museum

• Location: Armenian Street

• Recently reopened with refreshed galleries.

• Dive into exhibits on Peranakan fashion (like intricate kebayas), rituals, wedding customs, and heirlooms like beaded slippers and porcelain.

Baba House

• Location: Neil Road

• A fully restored 1920s Peranakan townhouse by NUS.

• Offers a rare look into how an upper-class Peranakan family lived. Guided tours only.

3. Must-Try Peranakan Food

Peranakan cuisine is a rich blend of Chinese ingredients, Malay spices, and colonial influences. Here’s what to try:

Iconic Dishes:

• Ayam Buah Keluak – Chicken with black nuts in a rich, earthy sauce.

• Babi Pongteh – Braised pork belly with fermented soybean paste and potatoes.

• Laksa Katong – Coconut milk-based spicy noodle soup.

• Ngoh Hiang – Five-spice pork rolls wrapped in bean curd skin.

Where to Eat:

• Candlenut – First Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant in the world.

• Guan Hoe Soon – One of the oldest traditional Peranakan restaurants.

• Baba Chews – Contemporary twist on classic recipes in a heritage police station.

• Kim Choo Kueh Chang – Famous for their Nyonya rice dumplings and kuehs.

4. Fashion & Crafts

Kebaya & Batik

• The Nyonya kebaya is a sheer embroidered blouse worn with batik sarong. Still worn during weddings and festivals.

• Many pieces are hand-stitched and passed down as family heirlooms.

Where to Shop:

• Rumah Bebe – Boutique selling handmade kebayas, beaded slippers, and accessories.

• Cat Socrates – For modern Peranakan-inspired souvenirs and books.

5. Festivals & Traditions

• Peranakan weddings are lavish affairs that traditionally lasted up to 12 days.

• Chinese New Year and Hari Raya are both observed with unique Peranakan rituals.

• Look out for cultural festivals or events hosted by the Peranakan Association or museums.

Tips for Exploring Peranakan Culture:

• Try a heritage walking tour – many local guides focus on Katong-Joo Chiat or Emerald Hill.

• Attend a cooking class – places like Food Playground offer Peranakan cooking experiences.

• Visit during festivals – like the annual Singapore Heritage Festival, which often highlights Peranakan traditions.

Peranakan culture is a precious part of Singapore’s multicultural identity — stylish, flavorful, and deeply layered. Whether you're eating your way through a Katong hawker stall or admiring a hand-beaded slipper, you're stepping into a living legacy that’s as beautiful as it is resilient.