A Real Jem

Move aside, Jurong Point. Jem Mall looks set to be the new hangout for NTU students, with its upscale restaurants and retail stores.

By Bernice Koh and Nicole Jeanne Tan, Lifestyle Editors | Photos: Nicole Jeanne Tan

Heads up, shopaholics — the heartland equivalent of popular Orchard Road malls is here.

Bringing to the West higher-end stores from town sans the infuriating crowds, Jem gives neighbouring mall giants Jurong Point and JCube a run for their money.

But given the wide range of food and retail options available in the existing malls and coffee shops, is it really worth it for NTU students to travel to Jem? Check out our picks in the sideshow below.

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Boasting 241 shop units over a span of 818,000 square feet of retail space, this self-proclaimed ‘crown jewel of Jurong and Singapore’s West’ indeed lives up to its name.

After all, Jem offers dining options that were previously exclusive to the Central area — aside from Marche, restaurants such as Bangkok Jam and Spageddies can also be found in Jem.

That said, certain stores in Jem such as Ambush, Din Tai Fung, Jack’s Place and Fairprice Extra are also available at either Jurong Point or Safra Jurong.

But nevertheless — with a bookstore to pick up new reads, affordable dining, and popular fashion labels, Jem is worth exploring after school or during lunch breaks.