This is a prime opportunity for an F&B operator or an investor looking for a high-demand asset class. Desker Road has undergone a significant transformation, now sitting at the crossroads of Little India’s heritage charm and the trendy, upscale developments of Jalan Besar.
A 2 storey shophouse with full restaurant approval is a "plug-and-play" asset, which is increasingly rare given the tightening of F&B quotas in certain conservation districts.
Property Highlights
Configuration: 2 storeys. The second floor is ideal for a private dining floor, a waiting area for your packed restaurant, or administrative back-of-house operations.
Approval Status: F&B/Restaurant approval. This removes the risk and lead time associated with Change of Use applications to URA. Please note that the M&E set up for F&B is not there.
Location & Connectivity: Situated within walking distance to Jalan Besar (DT22) and Farrer Park (NE8) MRT stations. It offers easy access for the lunch crowd from nearby office hubs and the dinner/weekend crowd frequenting the Jalan Besar hipster enclave.
Investment Perspective
Entry Price: Positioned at a "comfortable" entry point compared to the astronomical prices in Districts 1 and 2 (Telok Ayer/Amoy), making it accessible for boutique funds or private high-net-worth investors.
Yield Potential: Restaurant tenants typically command higher rental yields and longer lease terms compared to retail or office tenants.
Capital Appreciation: Heritage shophouses are a finite resource in Singapore. With the ongoing rejuvenation of the Ophir-Rochor corridor and Jalan Besar, the capital upside for Desker Road remains strong.
Strategic Considerations
Given the 2 storey layout, an operator could maximize the high floor-to-ceiling heights often found in these heritage units to create a visually stunning dining environment that appeals to the modern "lifestyle" consumer.