Clementi Area Guide

Across Clementi, a variety of housing types provide distinct options for residents. On top of existing accommodation such as Park West, Botannia and The Parc condominium, more will be available in the form of public housing near Clementi Woods Park and Waterfront private housing along Sungei Ulu Pandan, just to name a few. Well situated near the Jurong Gateway, a larger number of job seekers can enjoy fresh opportunities near home. While Clementi did not used to have any shopping centers within the vicinity, West Coast Plaza and The Clementi Mall have opened up in previous years to provide additional facilities for residents. Sunset Way, unique for its al fresco dining area, is a gem hidden along the heartlands. Besides National University of Singapore, Singapore Institute of Management and Ngee Ann Polytechnic, NUS High School and Nan Hua Primary School are part of the numerous academies nearby. Not too far away, The Singapore Japanese School provides an international education for children of Japanese expatriates.

Public transport and amenities in Clementi

Clementi History: A Quick Look at the Past

Legends have it that the iconic Ice Lemon Tea, a national favourite drink, was the inspiration behind Clementi’s name. Having been once known for the boys’ home situated along the road, the district was once known as Reformatory Road. Until 1947, when the Singapore Rural Board proposed changing the name of the road. The intent was to initially christen it in honour of Sir Hugh Clifford, the British High Commissioner in Malaya.

While Clementi was the name the Lord eventually settled on, it remains unconfirmed for whom it was named. Possible namesakes include Sir Cecil Clementi Smith, the first British High Commissioner in the Straits Settlements, or the similarly named Sir Cecil Clementi, a former Governor of the Straits Settlements whose significance doubled as the initiator of the construction of Kallang Airport.

Clementi’s colonial attachment extends further given a portion of it having been named Sussex Estate, after the English county. Developed in the mid-1950s, the now-named Clementi Avenue 1 was once home to the families of British senior non-commissioned officers.

Following neighbouring estate Boon Lay’s HDB-centric development, Clementi underwent a similar development in 1975.  This included the demolition of the military installation Colombo Camp located in what is now known as Clementi New Town. Today, Clementi serves as an epicentre, linking the southwest to the rest of Singapore.

Housing Options in Clementi, Singapore

Divided into four constituencies with seven neighbourhoods, Clementi hosts a diverse selection of housing options. From the traditional Singaporean apartments like Clementi HDB flats and condominiums to private landed properties, Clementi residences are a microcosm of Singaporean homes. 

The homes in Clementi offer unmatched value through accessibility and resources. In 2016, a flat in Clementi Towers HDB that is linked directly to Clementi MRT station made a record-breaking sale fetching more than $1 million dollars on the resale market. Similar scenarios are typically only observed in units in Design, Build & Sell projects, which refer to public housing units that are developed and sold by private developers as opposed to the Housing Development Board. 

While the more common HDB housing estates are aplenty in Clementi, the otherwise heartland-like district is also home to multiple condominiums. From older landmark properties such as Clementiwoods, Parc Clematis, and The Trilinq, to newer sites like The Clement Canopy along Clementi Avenue 1, Clementi is rife with condominiums.

Unique to most heartland estates, however, is the presence of hotels within the vicinity of Clementi. Just off the cusp of Clementi are Ibis Budget and Fragrance hotels, both reasonably-priced housing for travellers.

Dine and Drink in Clementi

An early settlement even during the development phases of the government’s efforts with the HDB initiative, the district has no shortage of great food options. The Block 448 Clementi Food Centre has satiated many Clementines since its construction. So great is its reputation that it is not uncommon to find the occasional East-side resident in the hawker centre hoping to snag a meal from one of the famous vendors.

Setting their flag in this food haven is a popular Western cuisine franchise, Collins whose usual restaurant fare finds a home in the esteemed hawker centres of Celemnti. Truffle mushroom soup and a crispy white pizza are some of what can be enjoyed from Collins. 

Though if shopping mall fare is what you hanker, Clementi has not one but two malls to offer with a variety of fast food options and mall food courts. Clementi Mall holds common food chains like McDonald’s and Stuff’d, as well as well-loved options that are harder to come by, such as Shake Shake In A Tub and Jinjja Chicken!

In 321 Clementi, hipster and prata converge at Prata Alley. The restaurant serves whacky prata amalgamations that most have likely not tried before. Salted caramel apple prata and pizza prata are two popular menu items that prioritise tastefulness and supersede the value of unconventional combinations. 

With its bustling pseudo-city lifestyle and its function as a network centre in the southwest of Singapore, Clementi does not disappoint with its availability of cafes. Boasting both Starbucks and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Clementi’s heavy traffic of working adults and students keeps the town trendy. And if you’re looking for something a little stiffer, experience the customer favourite Beer O’ Clock at Stickies Bar located on Sunset Lane.

Serial cafe-hoppers are likely well acquainted with Clementi and its strong cafe representation. Cafes like W39 Bistro & Bakery offer full meals with their artisanal coffee, while Jimmy Monkey replicates the Melbournian cafe experience, where customers enjoy glazed doughnuts while watching the raw green beans get roasted. 

10 Best Clementi Food Gems to Check Out

If you're down for some foodies adventure, 99.co has listed 10 best food gems in Clementi that are 100% worth trying (and worth queueing too!). Check these out!

1. OLLA Specialty Coffee

OLLA is a haven for Western-style brunch with a variety of drinks. Their Pourover Filter Coffee ($9++) and the Signature Honey Hibiscus Iced Shaken Tea ($6.50++) are some of the top-notch menus. You should give them a try!

Address: 381 Clementi Avenue 5, #01-402, Singapore 120381

Opening hours: Tue-Sun 8 am to 5 pm

2. Xin Peng La Mian Xiao Long Bao

It's a hidden kopitiam located right outside Clementi Mall. Here, you'll never get enough of Shanghainese food. The star menu is the Xiao Long Bao - for $5, you get six pieces of juicy pork-filled dumplings.

Address: 442 Clementi Avenue 3, Bistro8@Clementi, Singapore 120442

Opening hours: Daily 10 am to 9.30 pm

3. O.BBa Jjajang Express

Korean food party at the O.BBa Jjajang Express’s Clementi outlet! It's located inside a kopitiam, so don't worry about it being overpriced. The food is authentic, too - try their Jjampong priced at $9.90!

Address: 450 Clementi Avenue 3, #01-271, Singapore 120450 Opening hours: Daily 11 am-3 pm, 5 pm-8.30 pm

4. Springleaf Prata Place

If you’re looking for a 24-hour supper spot, Springleaf Prata Place is here to satisfy your cravings. They serve your usual Indian Muslim cuisine with a twist, as seen with interesting creations such as Prata Alfredo ($11.80) and Salted Egg Prawn Prata ($12.90)!

Address: 1 West Coast Drive, #01-108/109, NEWest, Singapore 128020

Opening hours: Daily 24 hours

5. Hello! Brew Bar

There's a new kid on the block - Hello! Brew Bar just joined the bubble tea scene in Singapore. Try their bestsellers Roasted Creme Brulee Pudding Milk Tea, Coconut Shake with Coconut Pudding, and the Honeydew Sago!

Address: 449 Clementi Avenue 3, Clementi Town Centre, #01-233, Singapore 120449 Opening hours: Daily 8.45 am to 9.30 pm

6. Little Myanmar Halal Foods

Little Myanmar Halal Foods is a real hidden gem in Clementi. You'll get to taste uncommon flavours in Singapore - Burmese dishes to check out include the Creamy Soft Tofu Noodle ($6) and the Myanmar Coconut Laksa ($6).

Address: 328 Clementi Avenue 2, #01-220, Singapore 120328

Opening hours: Tue-Fri 9 am to 8:30 pm, Sat-Sun 8:30 am to 8:30 pm

7. Li Yuan Mee Pok 

Li Yuan Mee Pok dishes out unique noodle creations, such as their Japanese Fusion mee pok in flavours such as Miso ($6.50) and Shoyu ($7.50). For $10, you can get their Char Siew Japanese Mee Pok in your preferred flavour - How cool is that??

Address: 710 Clementi West Street 2, #01-247, Rong Fa Coffee Shop, Singapore 120710 Opening hours: Tue-Sun 8 am to 3 pm

8. Mee Bagus 

Mee Bagus is a Muslim-friendly stall selling renditions of local noodle dishes. At $6.80, the Mee Bagus Special is an upgraded version of halal bak chor mee. For spice lovers, you can try the Volcano Ayam ($6.80)!

Address: 380 Clementi Avenue 5, #01-376 Kedai Kopi, Singapore 120380 Opening hours: Daily 7 am to 9 pm

9. MADLYGOOD

This sweet gem is located within The Clementi Mall. MADLYGOOD's specialities are indulgent waffles, crepes, and more. Signature Chunky Waffles (from $10.50) and the Pistachio Creme Waffles ($16.50) are some of the most popular menus here. MADLYGOOD is not a halal-certified eatery but uses no pork or lard.

Address: 3155 Commonwealth Avenue West, #05-22, The Clementi Mall, Singapore 129588 Opening hours: Daily 11:30 am to 10 pm

10. Soi 47 

Have some Thai food cravings? Soi 47 is the answer! The most popular options here include Claypot Tang Hoon with Prawns ($16), Steamed Seabass with Thai Lime Sauce ($26), and Pineapple Fried Rice ($6.80) - Make sure you try!

Address: 354 Clementi Avenue 2, #01-235, Singapore 120354 Opening hours: Daily 11:30 am to 3 pm, 5:30 pm to 10 pm

Clementi Town Centre: Shopping and Beyond

Clementi Town Centre is set to be the hive of activities in the western part of Singapore. There is a wide range of merchandise, entertainment, and food, including a market and hawker centre, for both residents and shoppers. They are indeed spoiled for choice as the town centre houses not one, but three shopping centres: The Clementi Mall, 321 Clementi, and Grantral Mall. 

The Clementi Mall

The heart of the district, The Clementi Mall is connected directly to Clementi MRT station and houses the bus interchange. This makes Clementi Mall even more accessible for people from neighbouring areas. Being a six-storey retail development, Clementi Mall has approximately 191,000 square feet of retail. The mall hosts 135 retail outlets including 16 restaurants and cafes. Anchor tenants include Best Denki, Uniqlo, Miniso and NTUC FairPrice Finest. The Clementi Mall also houses the Clementi Public Library.

• Address: 3155 Commonwealth Avenue West, Singapore 129588
• Opening hours: Everyday, 10.00 am - 10.00 pm

321 Clementi

While The Clementi Mall does lack a cinema, 321 Clementi houses a WE Cinemas by Eng Wah. The cinema is the only cinema in Clementi, with the only other cinema nearby being EagleWings Cinematics, a boutique cinema at King Albert Park Mall. While slightly less expensive than The Clementi Mall, 321 Clementi does host its fair share of residential favourites and necessities. From Saizeriya to clinics and a gym, 321 Clementi hosts all the neighbourhood comforts its residents require.

Grantral Mall @ Clementi

Grantral Mall is located at 3151 Commonwealth Avenue West, next to the Clementi Station. The anchor tenants operating in the mall are community clinics like NUPH, Anytime Fitness, Mind Stretcher, Kent Ridge Education, Kingdom Indulgence, Sichuan Tianfu Restaurant, Xin He F&B outlet and so on.

It is also well equipped with amenities such as Clementi Swimming Complex, Clementi Sports Hall, HDB Branch, Clementi Polyclinic, West Coast Town Council, and schools to serve residents.

Public Transport and Accessibility - Clementi

Clementi grants access to numerous expressways, making it a commonly chosen segue spot for taxi drivers ferrying passengers in and out of Singapore’s west. The expressways are Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE), Pan Island Expressway (PIE), and Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE), which make travelling to prime areas a matter of fifteen minutes. 

Clementi MRT Station (EW23)

Clementi’s central transportation hub unifies both its MRT station and the bus interchange. Located on the East-West Line (Green), Clementi is a stop away from Jurong Interchange. Furthermore, not only is the MRT station connected to The Clementi Mall, but the mall itself includes the bus interchange, allowing commuters to be as efficient as possible.

Accessibility to and from Clementi is only going to get better, with the introduction of three new train transport routes in the vicinity. The Cross-Island Line will be the country’s longest fully underground line and will be over 50 kilometres long. The Jurong Region Line will connect neighbourhoods in three phases from Choa Chu Kang to Boon Lay. The KL-Singapore High-Speed Rail at Jurong (a stop away from Clementi) will cross borders, linking Singapore to Malaysia’s city, Kuala Lumpur.

Educational Facilities in Clementi

From preschool to tertiary education, Clementi’s one of the very few estates to be able to boast of having them all. Some might say that it is a hub for education. Rest assured that families alike will be able to provide the best kind of education for their children.

Primary schools in Clementi:

• Clementi Primary School
• Nan Hua Primary School
• Pei Tong Primary School
• Qifa Primary School

Secondary schools in Clementi:

• Clementi Town Secondary School
• Nan Hua High School
• Tanglin Secondary School
• NUS High School of Mathematics and Science

Tertiary education options are nothing short of impressive in Clementi. Both Ngee Ann Polytechnic, within the Clementi zones, and Singapore Polytechnic in Commonwealth Avenue West. Additionally, for degree students, the SIM Headquarters is located just beside Ngee Ann Polytechnic, and the National University of Singapore’s vast premises borders Clementi as well.

More uniquely, Clementi is also host to the Japanese School, Singapore with the Waseda Shibuya Senior High School close by at West Coast Road. A private Japanese Kindergarten is located just beside the Japanese Secondary School.

Clementi Public Library

Located on the fifth floor of Clementi Mall, Clementi Public Library serves as a community learning hub for residents, schools, and organisations in South-West Singapore. There is something for everyone from all age groups to enjoy with a collection of about 180,000 items covering fiction and non-fiction books, magazines, and audio-visual materials. The library has a wide range of best sellers in various subjects such as Cookery, Health and Fitness, and Graphic Novels, as well as new arrivals and popular fiction genres such as Romance, Mystery, and Thriller.

Situated in the heart of a major transportation node, Clementi Public Library also provides convenient access to commuters passing through the area. With Mystery Brown Bag Service targeted at transit users within the shopping mall, there will be easy access to interesting reads which are pre-packaged according to popular subjects and themes. Another unique highlight of the library is the Interactive Digital Storytelling service. Your little ones will be able to engage in stories and reading activities such as quizzes via the Interactive Storytelling Kiosks. 

Parks and Gardens in Clementi

Sunset Way Park

Looking for a place to spend a day out with your little ones? Sunset Way Park might be a lovely option for you. The park has an expansive playground with a diverse range of equipment for children of all ages, abilities, and experiences. It is also an ideal place for picnics and relaxation, so the whole family can enjoy every bit of their time together. 

Firefly Park

Another great idea for your adventurous children is Firefly Park. The park has climbing obstacles, little rocking horses, hopscotch squares, and fitness corners. It consists of two parts, a section for young children between two to five and another for older kids up to 12 years old. 

Clementi Woods Park

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a true nature-lover destination, Clementi Woods Park is the perfect place. With its tall mature native trees and natural vegetation, Clementi Woods Park is a welcoming retreat for those looking to get close to nature. You can walk among the woods while listening to the chirping of birds and the soothing hum of insects. The wooded ambience of the park makes it perfect for a quiet cool stroll in the morning or evening.

West Coast Park

Known as the "Play Centre of the West", West Coast Park offers a wide range of facilities, from an adventure playground to a huge dog run so all members of the family can enjoy. The special features of the park include the Marsh Garden. This is a quiet spot that is teeming with biodiversity. Pack your binoculars for a chance to spot the White-breasted Waterhen and Striated Heron. The promenade lookout point is also popular among visitors. Extending out from the park's shoreline, this lookout point is the perfect spot to watch the sunset, with soothing views of the water and yachts docked nearby.

Sports Facilities in Clementi

With two of the most commercially known gyms, Fitness First and Anytime Fitness, already present, Clementi’s fitness options are open to most gym-goers. Additionally, the area has its own ActiveSG gym as well, making fitness accessible to just about anyone.

Clementi Stadium, Swimming Complex, and Sports Centre

With a busy interchange and train station nearby, Clementi Sports Centre, formerly known as Clementi Sport and Recreation Centre, serves a mature estate with people of different ages, from kids, and young adults, to active seniors. The multi-purpose stadium, Clementi Stadium, has a seating capacity of 4,000 and formerly served as the home ground for Tanjong Pagar United FC, Home United FC, and Tampines Rovers FC. Within the complex, you will also find one of the few public pools in Singapore built in a prime location. 

Clementi Swimming Complex which is just a short 8 minutes walk from Clementi MRT is a popular place for active swimmers. Other facilities include a gymnasium and multiple sports halls. In fact, the sports hall is the preferred venue for the Ministry of Education's basketball championships and is a training ground for the Singapore fencing team. On top of that, though it is one of the oldest facilities in Singapore, the sports centre here has been able to reinvent itself by bringing amateur boxing to the masses to revive the interest of working adults.

Clementi Community Centre (CCC)

Located in the heart of Clementi, the Clementi Community Centre (CCC) is a vibrant and bustling hub of activities for locals and visitors alike. With a range of facilities and activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling district of Singapore. From recreational activities to educational opportunities, the CCC offers a wide range of activities for all ages and interests.

Facilities at Clementi Community Centre:

• Dance Studio
• Conference Room
• Badminton Court
• Seminar Room
• Multi Purpose Room

Address: 220 Clementi Avenue 4 S129880

Opening Hours:

• Facilities: 10:00 AM-10:00 PM
• Counter Services: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
• Closed on public holidays

5 Best Things to Do in Clementi, Singapore

Clementi is a treasure trove of activities and experiences. From shopping and dining to nature walks and cultural explorations, here are the top 5 things to do in Clementi:

1. Explore Clementi Mall

Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, The Clementi Mall invites you to explore and enjoy everything it has to offer. Situated at the heart of Clementi, this bustling shopping centre is a haven for shopaholics and food enthusiasts alike. The Clementi Mall houses 146 shops, with an array of retail stores offering everything from fashion to electronics. The anchor tenants include FairPrice Finest and Popular Bookstore, along with the Clementi Public Library. The mall also boasts a plethora of dining options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants, making it the perfect spot for a meal after a shopping spree.

2. Relax at Clementi Woods Park

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Clementi Woods Park offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This verdant oasis is perfect for nature lovers, featuring winding trails ideal for leisurely walks or jogging. The park’s lush greenery, coupled with the soothing sounds of birds and rustling leaves, creates a tranquil atmosphere. Picnic spots are scattered throughout the park, making it an excellent location for family outings or quiet reflection. Don't forget to explore the tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

3. Discover the Artworks at the Singapore Art Museum (SAM at 8Q)

Located just a short drive from Clementi, SAM at 8Q is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. This branch of the Singapore Art Museum focuses on contemporary art, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions that highlight the dynamic art scene in Singapore and beyond. The museum's rotating exhibits ensure that there’s always something new and exciting to see. Engage with interactive installations, attend thought-provoking talks, or participate in hands-on workshops that cater to art lovers of all ages.

4. Visit the Clementi 448 Market & Food Centre

No visit to Clementi is complete without experiencing the vibrant local food scene at the Clementi 448 Market & Food Centre. This popular hawker centre is a gastronomic paradise, offering a wide variety of affordable and delectable dishes. Savour mouth-watering satay, fragrant chicken rice, spicy laksa, and many other local delights. The bustling atmosphere, filled with the aromas of freshly cooked food and the sounds of vendors and patrons, provides an authentic taste of Singapore’s culinary culture.

5. Unwind at West Coast Park

A short distance from Clementi, West Coast Park is a sprawling family-friendly park that offers something for everyone. With extensive recreational facilities, the park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy cycling along the scenic trails, engage in bird-watching, or have fun at the large adventure playground, which is a hit with children. The park also features barbecue pits and picnic spots, making it an ideal location for gatherings with friends and family. The serene coastal views and open spaces provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation.

These diverse activities make Clementi a delightful destination, offering a perfect blend of shopping, nature, art, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Clementi’s vibrant charm and varied attractions ensure there’s always something exciting to explore and enjoy.