The Intan

Alvin is a gracious host, showing us his collection of antiques and fascinating us with anecdotes of what is means to be a Peranakan and psyche of one. You will not be disappointed with the way he passionately shares his growing-up stories and how he amassed his collection of artefacts. Every corner of his house is filled with something to discover and a tale to tell. As colleagues on a learning journey and team bonding event, we enjoyed our afternoon at The Intan tremendously.

A Culinary and Cultural Masterpiece! Dining at The Intan Peranakan isn’t just a meal, it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of Peranakan heritage. Alvin, the passionate curator and host, welcomes guests into his extraordinary home museum, a treasure trove of over 40 years’ worth of meticulously preserved Peranakan artifacts. Every corner tells a story, and every dish served is a testament to tradition. What truly sets The Intan apart is Alvin himself. His warmth, knowledge, and storytelling turn the afternoon into an immersive cultural experience, making you feel like family in his home turned museum. If you crave more than just a restaurant, or if you want to taste, see, and feel the soul of Peranakan culture then this is the place. A rare gem where heritage, hospitality, and heavenly food collide. Thank you, Alvin, for an unforgettable experience. I’ll be back and I’ll bring everyone I know!

My fiance chose this museum to visit based on reviews. To be honest my expectations were low. By the end of our visit I was thrilled to have been a guest in Alvin's home museum. We got very lucky and did a walk in. I recommend buying tickets online ahead of time as Alvin keeps a busy schedule. From start to finish I learned more about Singapore culture through Alvin than anywhere else. He is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions. Oh and at the end he will serve you the best tea you will ever have.

I visited The Intan yesterday and was absolutely blown away. From the outside, the house appears modest, but the moment you step in, you’re transported into a completely different world. The owner, Alvin Yapp, is a phenomenal storyteller. Even as a Peranakan myself, I learned so much more about our culture just by listening to him share his knowledge and passion. His vast collection of Peranakan fabrics, shoes, and artifacts is truly mind-blowing. Every corner of the home reflects love, history, and dedication to preserving the heritage. I highly recommend The Intan to anyone who wants to understand not just Singapore’s cultural tapestry, but the rich and intricate beauty of the Peranakan culture.

The owner is very warm and welcoming! A lot of things to see and provide a very insightful view towards Peranakan culture. Please book before visiting.

Another wonderful afternoon with Alvin Yap. The artefacts and the conversations are insightful and informative. Love his collections and commentary.

A uniquely personal tour of Peranakan history. We did the afternoon tea experience after having visited the Peranakan Museum and found both experiences complemented each other well. Each item has a story. Some families even wanted Alvin to have photos of themselves and their loved ones because he would take care of them better than their families. The tea and cakes were good too! A. Hour well spent.

We had a private tour to celebrate my mother’s birthday and it was a wonderful experience right from the coordination of timing, all the way to the end of the tour. We enjoyed his warm hospitality and were extremely engaged by his personal anecdotes and reflections on his Peranakan heritage. His collection is eye opening and lovingly displayed. Thanks Alvin for a memorable afternoon!

Such a wonderful treasure in Singapore. An ode to Peranakan culture! Well worth a visit, and make sure to call ahead for an appointment!

I went here for a friends tenth anniversary and the whole way there the taxi driver argued with me that it wasn't the Peranakan museum. It isn't THE museum, it is one man's passion converted into an official heritage site. There is much more to Singapore than caning, chewing gum, gleaming skyscrapers and racial quotas; there is the history of some of the people who first came here and established the communities that grew up into this modern country. The Peranakan culture is an interesting story of blended cultures and unique assimilation and Alvin Yapp does an incredible job of weaving that history with personal stories, accumulated artifacts and his own wit and humor. I haven't been to any other Peranakan museum, so I can't compare, but this is a small collection that stands out due to the passion of it's owner and the help of his family and friends to keep it running. It is not open to the general public, you have to arrange a tour in advance, but you can arrange that tour around tea time to enjoy local homemade snacks as well. You can also plan a dinner as my friends did and have an evening of history and storytelling. Even piano music played by the curator himself. If you have friends visiting and only have time to do one thing, take them to the Marina Bay area and take the standard touristy photos, time for more, arrange to bring them here to learn about Singapore history. FYI this is NOT suitable for children, there are many artifacts precariously balanced on stairs and ledges just waiting to be knocked over. Even I felt a bit nervous to touch.