Source : the age
The place: Capri by Fraser, China Square, Singapore
Check-in
Capri by Fraser’s China Square property, a youthful, social offshoot of the Frasers Hospitality serviced apartments brand, arrived on Singapore’s hotel scene in 2019, just in time for COVID. As such, it still feels quite new and particularly so given its location. The new-build property sits in the heart of Chinatown, surrounded and contrasted by the colourful heritage shopfronts of yesteryear. And while the 15-storey building rises above them, its entrance is tucked away down a freshly paved lane, leading to a modern glass entryway with a giant animated screen (the lane is still so new in fact, rideshare drivers seem to be surprised by its existence).
The Den, a coworking and relaxation space.
With an eye on younger guests, particularly those looking for longer stays or digital nomad experiences, many of the rooms offer at least a microwave, while some feature a full kitchenette with cooking facilities. There’s also a self-service communal laundry (conveniently located next to the rooftop gym and pool, so you can take a dip or do a workout while you wait for your load to finish. If that doesn’t appeal, there’s also a Playstation and bean bags in the laundry itself). For those staying in the Studio Executive or Executive rooms (as I am) there’s also “The Den” a lounge and co-working space offering complimentary snacks and drinks, including, from 6pm to 8pm, hot food and alcoholic beverages.
The look
The lobby, featuring a work by local artist Simon Ng.
The small entry hall leads to lifts which take guests up to the second storey, where the actual lobby and check-in desk is located (though there are check-in kiosks on the ground floor). At first glance the look is traditional, if not ostentatious, with marble and glass, until you notice the more modern design elements, like the colourful cityscape by local artist Simon Ng that adorns the wall behind the reception desk and extends up and across the ceiling. It’s one of many works throughout the property from various artists both local and international.
The room
An Executive room. Like many modern compact hotel rooms, there’s no bathroom per se.
I’m in an Executive room, which features a king-sized bed, armchair and work desk which, pleasantly, faces the window so you can enjoy the view while giving your eyes a rest from the laptop screen. My particular view looks out on to those aforementioned traditional shophouse rooftops and beyond to the spectacular garden-high-rise of the ParkRoyal Collection Pickering. Another striking artwork from Simon Ng covers the wall space above the bed. Like many compact hotel room designs, the room doesn’t feature a bathroom per se. Instead, it’s a sink and bench with vanity mirror that is open to the rest of the room (the shower and toilet both have frosted glass doors for privacy at least). Toiletries are by French-Swedish brand 19-69. The differences between the room classes are fairly subtle. My room features a microwave and sink at the kitchenette but differs from the entry level Deluxe room only because I have a Nespresso machine and access to the Den. There’s a fridge but no minibar items.
The food
Moss Cross fuses French and Japanese cuisine.
Off the lobby is the hotel restaurant, Moss Cross Tokyo, which features the unusual fusion of Japanese and European cuisine. Menu items include things like udon carbonara, although there’s also standard stuff here like cheeseburgers and pizzas. Breakfast is a buffet with eggs cooked to order, with all the usual items (except normal bacon – there is only beef bacon) and a significant selection of Asian and Indian options.
Stepping out
While of course there’s food in the restaurant, you’d be crazy not to head out to eat some local dishes. Two major hawker centres are just five minutes walk away – Maxwell Food Centre and Hong Lim Food Centre. Head here during lunch hour and you’re likely to face long queues and struggle to find somewhere to sit, so try delaying your lunch until after 2pm. Another option is the famous Hawker Chan, home to a $6 previously Michelin-starred soya chicken rice dish (it lost the star in 2021 but still tastes as good as ever).
Verdict
The rooftop pool.
Capri by Fraser is a cool and (relatively) new addition to Singapore’s accommodation scene and is in a great location for those wanting to get a taste of local culture and cuisine. The kitchenette and laundry access make it an appealing option for a stopover if you’re coming back from a couple of weeks on the road or looking for an extended stay.
Essentials
Rooms at Capri by Fraser start from about $250 per night. See frasershospitality.com
Our rating out of five
★★★½
Highlight
The rooftop pool is huge and offers great views of the surrounding area.
Lowlight
As I drink tea, not coffee, I don’t use the Nespresso machine. There’s a kettle but only powdered non-dairy creamer provided and guest services tell me they can’t supply milk. I fill a glass in the restaurant at breakfast and put it in my fridge for later.
The writer stayed as a guest of Capri by Fraser China Square.
