After 10 years as Potato Head Singapore – renowned venue reimagined & renamed as 1939
November 11th, 2024
Previously known as Potato Head Singapore – the iconic venue was widely recognised as a must-visit drinking and dining destination over the past ten years in the vibrant, heritage-rich neighbourhood of Keong Saik Road, Singapore. And now a new concept – under the name of 1939 – emerges the venue’s storied past with a modern vision focused on culture, creativity, and conscious hospitality. 1939 Singapore celebrates the building’s Art Deco origins, acknowledging the heritage and history that have shaped the venue while presenting it as a fresh and inclusive space for all.
Built in its namesake year, the Art Deco building that houses 1939 Singapore has long been a fixture of Singapore’s Chinatown, dating back to its original concept as the renowned Tong Ah Eating House. With its prominent curved façade and historical charm, the building is a tribute to the era that shaped it. Honouring the legacy of this historic shophouse while providing a refreshed, forward-looking identity that continues to resonate with its diverse clientele, 1939 represents a new chapter, one that fuses the elegance of the past with the vibrancy of today’s hospitality landscape.
The reimagined 1939 Singapore features an updated dining menu that reflects both the history of the building and eclectic global flavours. The food offerings are diverse, paying homage to the heritage of Singapore’s Chinatown while also incorporating international staples.
The drinks programme echoes this blend of tradition and innovation, with the BPM-themed cocktail offerings on Level 3 and Level 4 seamlessly connecting mixology with music. Each drink is designed to be both a refreshment and an auditory experience, perfectly complementing the venue’s distinct culinary direction.
Occupying the four floors of the heritage shophouse building, the 1939 journey begins at The Front Porch on Level 1, where the ground floor preserves the vibrant legacy of the original Tong Ah Eating House, blending heritage with a modern twist. Featuring an open kitchen that places the culinary team centre-stage, guests are invited to engage their senses and soak up the dynamic energy of Chinatown with the lively sights, sounds, and aromas of the space.
Heading upstairs to Level 2, The Restaurant is a colourful space where hand-painted murals and vibrant decor by Australian artist David Bromley pay tribute to the neighbourhood’s rich culture. Warm lighting and an intimate atmosphere set the stage for a reimagined menu that draws from the heritage of 1939 while embracing global culinary influences. Signature dishes, such as Har Cheong Gai, Lamb Rack and the Chilli Crab Burger, highlight premium, regionally sourced ingredients and global favourites, creating a rich tapestry of flavours that feel familiar yet exciting. Guests who were already missing the famous Three Buns Burgers can rest assured that a curated selection of favourites will remain on offer, a nostalgic nod to the building’s previous concept.
Ducking into the speakeasy-style Studio 1939 Cocktail Bar on Level 3, deep hues and rich textures create a cosy yet sophisticated atmosphere. Here, the cocktail programme introduces an innovative concept rooted in “Beats per Minute” (BPM), where each cocktail reflects the energy of music genres through its composition.
Meanwhile, the cocktail offerings at the Rooftop Bar on Level 4 embrace a tropical flair, perfectly matching the laid-back vibe and stunning city views. While both levels follow the BPM concept, their distinct flavour profiles create unique atmospheres for guests. On weekends, Studio 1939 comes alive with high-energy DJ performances, while the Rooftop Bar offers a more relaxed setting perfect for sundowners and socialising under the stars.
(images credit 1939)
