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Colonial charm

Samantha Chiew
Samantha Chiew • 3 min read
Colonial charm
The Robertson House has been transformed from its past life as the Riverside Hotel Robertson Quay. Photo: The Robertson House
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Step back in time and catch a glimpse of an era past at The Robertson House

The Ascott Limited has added a new jewel to its prestigious Crest Collection: The Robertson House. Located in the fun and vibrant Robertson Quay area, the hotel invites travellers to not just enjoy a stay, but also travel back in time. 

This stately establishment, which began welcoming guests last October, has undergone a major transformation from its past life as the Riverside Hotel Robertson Quay. It now features 336 elegantly designed rooms and suites designed to immerse visitors in the rich tapestry of Singapore’s colonial past.

Stepping into The Robertson House, one is instantly transported to a time past. The hotel’s ambiance has been curated to reflect colonial-era Singapore; an exclusive scent reminiscent of the spices and teas traded along the bustling quayside infuses the air with a sense of nostalgia and exotic allure.

Each room is a narrative of luxury and history. The hotel boasts spacious accommodations with stunning views of the city skyline or the Singapore River. The decor features a blend of modern elegance and colonial influences; walls are adorned with artworks that tell stories of the spice trade era. 

The suites, with names like Nutmeg, Clove and Cardamom, offer a deeper dive into the thematic experience with bespoke furnishings and rich textiles.

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For guests seeking a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, the 1823 Reading Room offers a unique retreat. Located on the top floor, this club lounge is inspired by the founding of Singapore’s National Library in 1823 and offers a serene environment where guests can indulge in a selection of vintage and rare books. Monthly cultural workshops further enrich the guest experience, providing a deeper connection to the local heritage.

Dining at The Robertson House is an adventure in itself. The hotel’s signature restaurant and bar, Entrepôt, pays tribute to Singapore’s history as an entrepôt trade hub. With a menu that blends Anglo-Asian cuisine, guests can savour dishes that are both innovative and steeped in tradition. 

Signature offerings such as the Chinese Terracotta Tea and the Angelica Root Chicken Roast showcase the culinary excellence that awaits diners, along with the exclusive Robertson House Gin, distilled in collaboration with Singapore’s pioneering gin distillery, Tanglin Gin.

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After dinner, venture through the black doors into a different world that is Chandu, The Robertson House’s speakeasy bar. An intimate cocktail bar with a design drawing inspiration from opium dens and clan associations, Chandu — which means “opium” in Malay and “moon” in Hindi — primarily focuses on cocktails with a tale, and market-to-glass specialities. Signatures include Chasing the Dragon, Death and Taxes, as well as the Mata Hari. 

 

 

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