The Overview

With its motley contents and independent spirit, this book café and arts space refuses to be pinned down. "I'd like us to be a safe space for expression, while at the same time also be a safe space for those who don't feel like expressing themselves at all," says lawyer-turned-store owner Ave Chan, who runs The Pigeonhole with her boyfriend Rayner Lim, who works in the film industry. Nestled in a pair of Duxton Hill shop houses, the stripped-down interior has the feel of an arty friend's abode: exposed bulbs dangle from long cables strewn across the ceiling; a shiny drum set twinkles among pre-loved furniture; and a wooden rocking horse occupies one corner on the fire-engine-red floor. In the daytime, browse the diverse range of secondhand books—The Rock Snob’s Dictionary; Farewell to Revolution—while sipping a smooth freshly ground coffee. At night, try some of the stronger tipple—Japanese Yamazaki malt whisky; Swiss Quöllfrisch beer—and check out the dizzying range of happenings: open-mic events, live music nights, movie screenings, NGO talks and even bi-monthly Sunday flea markets. See the website for schedules.

Tel: +65 6226 2880

Facebook: facebook.com/the.pigeonhole