Singapore: Colourful Clarke Quay

15/11/2017

Clarke Quay Esplanade.

The colourful streets of Clarke Quay.
Plus, a public service announcement regarding some seriously spicy tacos.

A view of Clarke Quay from Singapore River.

If you are a return reader, chances are you're aware of my love of colour and street art; unfortunately, I had not discovered any central to Singapore city during this visit. So once noticing the bright pastel colours of Clarke Quay from the middle of the river, I was drawn there like a magnet.

Clarke Quay, located on the edge of the central business district, just slightly upstream from history-rich Boat Quay, also played a significant role Singapore's shipping history during the 19th and 20th century, with goods transported by river to stored in local warehouses. These warehouses now transformed into a colourful riverside entertainment district. Home to a shopping complex and packed with restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and for adventure seekers, there is also a reverse bungee jump (slingshot) located close to the Coleman Bridge.

Clarke Quay Esplanade.

A closer look at the colourful shutters adorning the businesses along the Clarke Quay Esplanade.

Clarke Quay Esplanade.

Colourful, converted warehouses in Clarke Quay, Singapore.

Colourful and converted, Clarke Quay warehouses.

My view of the Singapore River at Clarke Quay while seated for lunch.

My view of the Singapore River while seated for lunch.

Tacos, Singapore Sling and sauvignon blanc at Muchos, Clarke Quay, Singapore.

Seriously spicy tacos, a traditional Singapore Sling and a glass of Sauvignon blanc.

After walking through the area, I decided to take a break and select a restaurant along the water for Mexican food; Muchos, lunch with a view. The service at this restaurant was great. However, I made three mistakes. 1) I ordered a watermelon salad entree - the blandest salad in the world (no matter where you order it) which is saved only by the olives and feta cheese. 2) I ordered my main meal without enquiring about the spice level, and 3) I ordered a cocktail mid-meal that I didn't see not on the menu. I've made the third mistake before while travelling so was instantly sceptical regarding the mystery bill that would be arriving after my meal.

Watermelon salad.

My view of the Singapore River while seated for lunch.

Bland watermelon salad aside, the tacos were so incredibly spicy that my eyes began watering, throwing me into a coughing fit which required a Singapore Sling to ease my throat. The mystery bill came to $70AUD - meaning I paid $30 for two dishes I didn't eat, $30 on one cocktail and $5 on one wine.

Regardless of pricing, I do recommend checking out Clarke Quay and the riverside dining, it is a beautiful area of the city; just watch out if you dislike spice and have a penchant for cocktails.