Blending nostalgic Singapore-inspired design with contemporary comforts, Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, offers a boutique stay experience alongside thoughtful dining and warm hospitality in the heart of Selegie
Location
Standing on the former site of the iconic Selegie Centre, Varel Singapore, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is a newly opened boutique property with 128 guestrooms, located within walking distance of Little India and the Bugis precinct. Tekka Centre sits directly across the road, while nearby eateries include the flagship outlet of Old Chang Kee. Little India MRT station is also just a five-minute walk away.
Accommodation
The hotel offers a range of accommodation options, including standard Queen rooms, Twin and King configurations, as well as suites located on the upper floors.
I stayed in a Corner Deluxe King Room, which came with a private balcony fitted with a zip-track blind that could be drawn for added privacy or opened up to views of the Mt Emily neighbourhood. The balcony quickly became my favourite spot to unwind in the room, thanks to the comfortable sofas that made it easy to relax.
Upon entry, there is a small foyer area fitted with a bench that is useful for putting on shoes or placing bags. An open-concept hanging section for clothes is also located here, although limited to just a few pieces of clothing.
Inside the room, the work desk proved conducive for getting work done, with electrical outlets conveniently built into the desk itself. Larger chargers, such as my Macbook charger, could not fit within the internal compartment, although this was easily resolved by using the nearby wall outlet instead. Despite its appearance, the work chair was also far more comfortable than expected, offering good support and posture during extended periods of work.
The room was also equipped with a kettle, tea and coffee sachets, and filtered bottled water that can be refilled upon request. A mini fridge stocked with complimentary canned drinks was provided for the first round as well.
Bathroom amenities are by Maison 21G, featuring the Chai Noir scent, which is also diffused throughout the hotel. All guestrooms are fitted with shower facilities, with the exception of the suite, which comes with a round stone bathtub.
F&B
Despite its relatively intimate size, the hotel delivers a strong culinary offering through its signature restaurant, Hathaway Autograph. Under the direction of Chef Lawrence, the menu draws on comforting regional flavours while introducing modern interpretations of classic dishes.
The al fresco all-day dining venue also hosts the hotel’s buffet breakfast, featuring an egg station, hot dishes, fruits, yoghurt, charcuterie, and even a pancake-making machine.
While the restaurant is open for lunch, I did not have the opportunity to dine there as I spent much of the day exploring the surrounding neighbourhood. Dinner, however, proved to be a highlight, with both set menus and à la carte options available.
For starters, I sampled the Salmon & Coconut Kinilaw, a Filipino-style ceviche bursting with refreshing flavours from citrus-cured salmon and creamy avocado, alongside the Tempe Buncis, a simple yet flavourful dish that evoked a comforting, homely feeling. I also had the Grilled Squid “Rojak” – an interesting interpretation of the traditional dish. Among the mains, my standout favourites were Ah Nya’s Fish Curry, featuring fresh barramundi poached in a rich and hearty curry sauce, and the Wagyu Bakudan Bakso, a tender tendon meatball served in a clear, subtly sweet beef broth. Both dishes brought back fond memories of meals shared with my Indonesian relatives, where similar flavours were often served at the dining table.
To end the meal, I had the Sago Gula Melaka and Sticky Coffee Pudding, both decadent desserts that provided a satisfying finish to an enjoyable dinner.
I found myself particularly enjoying the evening atmosphere at Saga Bar, located on the hotel’s second level. During my visit, bartender Shuhan showcased her mixology skills with a cocktail specially created for the hotel, which has yet to be officially named. The drink was enjoyable and well-balanced, featuring notes of cranberry and Cointreau among its flavours. I even brought a nightcap back to my room to enjoy on the balcony before turning in for the night.
Guests at the bar can also order dishes from Hathaway Autograph’s menu. On one evening, I opted for the Signature Beef Cheek Rawon and the Chilli Crab Dip, both of which proved to be delightful accompaniments to the cocktails.
Located on the ground floor near the hotel’s street-level drop-off point, Vernacular Coffee offers a convenient stop for coffee and light refreshments throughout the day.
Facilities
The hotel’s design draws on local heritage influences, from bathroom metal grilles reminiscent of old lift gates to tingkat-shaped desk lamps in the guestrooms. Inspired by the vision of the hotel’s Indonesian owner, many of the nostalgic touches reflect his years spent living in Singapore.
Located on the second floor, the lobby features a playful five stones theme, complete with oversized replica cushions and a communal workstation area. Guests can also borrow five stones sets to try the traditional game for themselves.
On the eighth floor is the rooftop swimming pool, equipped with hot and cold poolside rinse showers, with plans for a rooftop bar also in the works. Despite rainy weather during much of my stay, I still managed to enjoy a relaxing night swim before the pool closed at 22.00.
The hotel’s Sky Terraces, located on the third, fifth and seventh floors, provide open-air green spaces within the city, while guests seeking a workout can request passes to a nearby gym via the front desk.
Service
All the staff at Varel Singapore were warm and friendly, consistently checking in on how my day was going and whether I required any assistance during my stay. Guests are also welcomed upon check-in with TWG tea and a scoop of gelato by Denzy Gelato, a thoughtful touch that added to the arrival experience. Special mention goes to Colin, front office supervisor, who attended to my needs attentively and patiently answered my questions about both the hotel and the surrounding area. I would also like to commend Viwan, F&B supervisor, who took care of my dining requests and reservations throughout the stay.
The hotel also utilises the Marriott Bonvoy app, which allows guests to message the front desk, request housekeeping services and amenities, as well as make dining reservations. Mobile Key functionality is also available, enabling guests to use their smartphones in place of a physical key card, although a Bluetooth connection is required.
Verdict
Overall, I had an enjoyable stay at Varel Singapore, made even better by the warm hospitality from the team throughout my visit. The rooms were clean, cosy and comfortable, while the food and service consistently impressed me during my stay. Combined with its thoughtful design touches and convenient location, it is a hotel I would gladly return to in the future – and one I wished I could have stayed at a little longer.
Contact details
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sintx-varel-singapore-a-tribute-portfolio-hotel/overview/
