New cafes and old trades coexist in Singapore's Jalan Besar district

New businesses and long-established trades are coexisting in the Jalan Besar district of Singapore, creating a neighborhood characterized by a mix of old and new identities.

While some newer cafes and creative agencies move into the area, traditional hardware dealers and engineering workshops remain part of the streetscape. This blend of industries has drawn attention from visitors and media, including a naming by Time Out as a cool neighborhood for 2026.

Business owners and residents describe the area as having an organic energy that differs from master-planned precincts. Some entrepreneurs chose the location specifically for its unpolished feel or its heritage buildings. For example, the founder of Average Service chose the site because it maintained its identity while allowing for new cafe culture. Other tenants, such as those at Druggists, intentionally preserve the history of their buildings by displaying original blueprints and archives.

However, the rapid influx of food and beverage outlets has caused some tension. Older shop owners express concern that the customer mix is shifting as peers close or relocate to industrial hubs. Some residents also worry that increasing popularity could lead to over-gentrification or turn the area into a noisy tourist hotspot. Despite these concerns, some business owners report a collaborative spirit where neighbors support each other rather than competing directly.

Property observers note that the area continues to attract investment, evidenced by shophouse transactions. While rental prices in Jalan Besar remain lower than in prime districts like Tanjong Pagar, the balance between preserving authenticity and commercial growth remains a key focus for the community and government agencies like Enterprise Singapore.