The Zall Bookstore 卓爾書店 brings a unique concept to Wheelock Place, combining a Chinese bookstore, art gallery, and minimalist cafe across two levels of the mall. Located near where the defunct Borders flagship store once stood, Zall has created a cultural bridge connecting Chinese and overseas literary traditions, offering a curated space where book lovers can browse Chinese-language titles while enjoying coffee and pastries.
The bookstore mainly features Chinese-language books across an extensive range of genres, though it also maintains a decent selection of English titles to serve bilingual readers. The cafe component has gained attention as a hidden gem in Orchard, providing a peaceful retreat where shoppers can escape the mall bustle to read, work, or socialise over coffee. The multi-level layout allows for different zones - quieter areas for focused reading and more social spaces for gatherings.
What makes The Zall Bookstore special is its role as more than just a retail space. Since opening in February 2021 as Zall first overseas Chinese bookstore, it has hosted author talks, cultural events, and dialogue sessions that enrich Singapore literary scene. The minimalist aesthetic creates a calm, contemplative atmosphere that encourages lingering, while the strategic Orchard Road location makes Chinese literary culture accessible to shoppers who might not seek out specialised bookstores in more remote locations.
6232 7549
Orchard Road
Operating Hours
Closed - Opens Tomorrow
Opens tomorrow at 11:30 am
Monday
11:30 am–8:30 pm
Tuesday
11:30 am–8:30 pm
Wednesday
11:30 am–8:30 pm
Friday
11:30 am–8:30 pm
Saturday
(Today)
11:30 am–8:30 pm
Sunday
11:30 am–8:30 pm
Menu information is not available at this time.
Photo Gallery
The Zall Bookstore entrance with books displayed on shelves and a modern illuminated sign.
Interior of a modern bookstore with shelves of books and people sitting at a counter.
The Zall Bookstore entrance with books displayed inside and a person walking by.
A sign for The Zall Bookstore with a city skyline view through the window.
A slice of green cake with coconut flakes on top, served on a white plate.
Interior view of a modern art gallery with various paintings displayed on white walls.
A sign announcing revised operating hours for Zall Bookstore, effective June 28th.
Stacks of books with Chinese and English titles displayed on shelves in a bookstore.
A display case filled with various cakes and desserts in a modern shop.
Interior of a bookstore with tiered seating and extensive bookshelves.
The Zall Bookstore entrance with its name displayed on the glass facade.
Interior of a modern bookstore with a cafe counter and display shelves.
Interior of a modern bookstore with bookshelves, plants, and hot air balloon decorations.
Interior of a modern bookstore with shelves full of books and decorative hot air balloons.
A wooden sign for The Zall Bookstore is displayed on a table, with a city view in the background.
Interior of a modern bookstore with unique shelving and signage.
Interior of a bookstore displaying cat-themed art and merchandise.
A drink sits on a wooden counter with a bookstore logo, overlooking a mall with M&S.
Interior of a modern bookstore with shelves of books, decorative plants, and seating areas.
The Zall Bookstore features a modern glass facade displaying books and decorative items.
Interior of a modern bookstore with bookshelves, a unique tree installation, and seating area.
Interior of a modern bookstore with extensive bookshelves and a unique tree-like display.
Interior view of a modern bookstore with shelves filled with books and decorative items.
Exterior view of The Zall Bookstore with large glass windows showcasing books and interior seating.
A display of pastries and drinks in a modern cafe setting with promotional signs.
The Zall Bookstore entrance with shelves full of books and illuminated displays.
A charming bookstore with interesting artwork displayed alongside the shelves, creating a cozy and creative atmosphere. They offer a large selection of Chinese books, great for readers looking for variety in that genre.
Isaac Okumura
I feel the Zall Bookstore is so underrated. They have a huge galore of books (mostly Chinese) but they have super cute stuff too. Love to come here once in awhile to check them out. I hope they’ll survive as many bookstores face the unfortunate fate of having to shut down.
Pauline Yoong
Extremely cute bookshop. Love that they have some really good Chinese books. A pity they closed their cafe permanently. There are still some chairs and tables people can sit around. There are also many beautiful and cute accessories to buy.
Xin Hao
Very nice, cosy ambience with a modern design. Great range of titles here - especially if you are searching for Chinese or Taiwan novels, literature, general knowledge etc. They have a huge selection of authors as well for that genre. English titles also available and you can easily find the top popular titles around. Super quiet environment and layout over 2 floors. There’s a children’s corner too at the basement. In the past, you could have a cup of coffee from the in-house cafeteria but they have since closed unfortunately. Regardless, still a very comfortable spot to chill out on a nice bench and enjoy a good book!
A S
Surprised to find a bookstore at Wheelock place , tucked quietly amongst other retailers. This is the sort of bookstore you know it’s there and you want to keep it quiet so that it remains a secret hideout.
So, I am not gate keeping this rather charming store.
It sells mainly Chinese language books, from fiction to classic literature.
However, it does have a small area where you can do your work, order a cup of coffee.
It also sells quirky figurines.
Chinese books are their main focus, dhuchbus a shame because I am not good in reading Chinese.