Singapore is a teeming hotbed of locally designed and crafted products. Several emblems of our diverse, unique nation can be brought home by tourists, in the form of quirky and functional souvenirs. Nuanced labours of love crafted by Singapore’s growing artisanal community, these thoughtfully fashioned items are not only functional—they’re symbols of our many cultures and ethnicities. 

Flatlay of local Singaporean souvenirs

Old school
Studio shot of traditional Chinese medicine sold at Eu Yan Sang

Eu Yan Sang—herbal remedies

An iconic dispensary of traditional Chinese medicine, Eu Yan Sang stocks a plethora of herbal remedies, which have been proven effective against everything from common colds and flus, to high blood pressure and cardiovascular ailments.

Biscuit King—traditional sweets

As you explore Singapore’s eclectic neighbourhoods, pop into a mama shop (traditional sundries store) to buy some local candy. While children today crave trendy desserts and sweets, treats like ais gem (iced gem biscuits) and haw flakes (Chinese sweets made from the Chinese hawthorn) were integral parts of many Singaporeans’ childhoods.

If you’re finding it a bit difficult to hunt down this hidden treasure, you can drop by Biscuit King along Casuarina Road. This old school store is a trove of nostalgic snacks and retro candies.


Toys on shelf sold Loof, a rooftop bar in Civic District

Loof—nostalgic knicknacks

Toys from the pre-electronics era may not be on the wish lists of kids today, but you can still find some of these knickknacks by purchasing them at Loof, an acclaimed rooftop bar in the Civic District.

Prima Taste/Hais—local condiments and ingredients

Make your own version of traditional Singaporean dishes at home—go for instant pastes and powders by Prima Taste and Hais, both of which offer Halal-certified, ready-to-cook versions of laksa (spicy coconut milk-based noodle soup), Hainanese chicken rice and Cantonese soups, among others. These household brands are available at most supermarkets here.

Tiger Beer—the granddaddy of local brews

Don’t leave Singapore without having a can or pint of Tiger Beer, our home-grown brew that has found acclaim all around the world. Besides the usual light lager, the suds now come in two new variations: wheat beer and dark lager.


Product shot of Tiger Balm ointment products

Tiger Balm—A local ointment to soothe discomfort

Soothe your aches and pains with Tiger Balm, a traditional ointment that can be found in most convenience stores and supermarkets. Locals have been dabbing the elixir on their sore joints and muscles for almost a century, and some even claim it helps with headaches and colds. Even if you don’t suffer from any of these ailments, Tiger Balm’s iconic hexagonal bottle—the design of which hasn’t changed much since it launched—makes for a great curio for your home.


New school
Poster of different flavoured beers sold at Archipelago Brewery

Archipelago Brewery—Craft brews in iconic beer bottles

Singlish got you stumped? Perhaps the new beers from Archipelago Brewery can help. The local microbrewery has launched a range of beers that bear cheeky, Singlish-inspired names such as Sibeh Ho Witbier (“sibeh ho” is Hokkien for “extremely good”) and Ki Siao Brown Ale (“ki siao” is Hokkien for “go insane”).


Close up shot of tea flavours by TWG with different flavoured macarons in background

TWG—Tea for the discerning connoisseur

Tea-lovers, you’ll find your sanctuary at one of the tea salons of Singapore’s home-grown luxury tea brand, TWG. Pick up a beautiful tea tin containing your blend of choice—local versions of international strains include the Singapore Breakfast Tea and the Weekend in Singapore—or a box of exotic loose tea leaves.


Gold-plated Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim jewellery sold at Risis

Risis—Our national flower, immortalised in gold

If you’re a fan of our national flower, the Papilionanthe Miss Joaquim orchid, you can take home a bloom that will not wilt: a gold-plated one. Visit local goldsmith and jeweller Risis, and browse a collection of orchid-inspired jewellery.


Interior of BooksActually

Littered with Books/BooksActually—Literary gems from local authors

Leaf through books by local authors at boutique bookstores like Littered with Books or BooksActually. From poetry collections to short story compilations to bona fide novels, you’ll find that the Singaporean literary scene is brimming with talent. One book you have to check out is The Art of Charlie Chan Hock Chye by Sonny Liew. It’s a sprawling graphic novel—and winner of an Eisner Award—that presents a fictionalised account of our history.


Flatlay shot of a Singapore souvenir plate sold at Supermama

Supermama/Scene Shang—Homeware for your abode

If you’d like to purchase some locally made crockery and furniture, head to Supermama and Scene Shang, located side by side in Kampong Gelam. Supermama, in particular, is famous for its gorgeously crafted porcelain plates, depicting architectural icons like the Merlion and cultural motifs.