Lou Shang is a HDB-themed cafe bar along Prinsep Street
Image credit: @saltyaaron
While the above image may look like the corridor of a HDB estate, it’s actually a cafe-bar by the people behind speakeasy bar Mama Diam. Lou Shang 楼上, meaning upstairs in Chinese, is its name.
Mama Diam Review: Speakeasy Bar With Secret Entrance Behind Retro Mama Shop
Do note that our Mama Diam coverage is outdated. We will be updating the article soon.
A few years ago, Lou Shang’s HDB-themed interior drew some controversy. There’s an interpretation that this is a form of class appropriation, where the lived realities of working-class Singaporeans are commodified. Still, one can also think of Lou Shang as a homage to the true-blue heartlands with its decor—it depends on how you look at it.
Image credit: @saltyaaron
If you’re keen on checking the place out, you’ll need to access it via a hidden elevator within Mama Diam. Take the lift up and you’ll find yourself there.
Image credit: Lou Shang 楼上
The cafe-bar offers an interesting range of food and drinks. When it comes to food, there are exciting fusion dishes such as Drunken Dashi Clam Broth ($20.90++), Dry Laksa Supreme Aglio Olio ($22.90++) and more. There are also interesting sides, too, such as Tom Yam Calamari ($14.90++) and Golden Lava Fries ($13.90++).
Image credit: Lou Shang 楼上
There are also eye-catching desserts, such as the Tutu Kueh ($14.90++), which is a cake version of the traditional snack. Its exterior is made out of fluffy meringue, and its interior features aromatic shredded coconut.
Image credit: Lou Shang 楼上
Drinks-wise, there are creations such as Bak Kut Teh Coffee ($7) and Pandan Kaya Latte ($6.50++), which sees latte infused with notes of pandan kaya.
For a new retro-inspired cafe with moonlight hor fun and coconut coffee, read our Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe review. For a minimalist cafe in Tanjong Pagar with Korean-inspired pastries, check out our Snap Cafe review.
Address: 38 Prinsep Street, #02-02, Singapore 188665
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 9:30pm
Tel: 8714 0012
Website
Lou Shang is not a halal-certified eatery.
Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe Review: New Retro-Inspired Cafe With Moonlight Hor Fun And Coconut Coffee In CBD
Feature image adapted from @saltyaaron and 楼上.
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