Adira Chow

Valentine's Day couldn't come at a better time this year. With February 14 falling on a Saturday, you and your partner have Friday evening and the whole weekend to celebrate, before the Chinese New Year festivities kick in the next week. To help you with your planning, we've sussed out the best Valentine's Day menus and restaurants for a one-of-a-kind date night. From floral-themed settings and sizzling steakhouses, to restaurants where you can skip off on a romantic walk in the park after dinner, these are the places to be making those reservations at this year. Watch this space for fresh updates on the best places to wine and dine this Valentine's Day. RECOMMENDED: The most romantic restaurants in Singapore and The most romantic bars in Singapore

The date is going well, conversations are flowing, and you're searching for a post-dinner spot to spend the rest of the evening. Instead of clamouring to find the nearest bar you and your partner can slip into, why not secure a table at one of these spots, where the atmosphere is bound to hit just right? This list of romantic cocktail bars in Singapore spans the spectrum, from breezy rooftop venues, to thematic bars that'll inject some fun into the evening and keep things interesting. Most have decently spaced or booth seating, so you'll get that much-needed privacy, but for couples who prefer a secluded spot even further from the city, you'll also find several spots on this list that'll fit the bill. Here are the best places to raise a toast to love, whether it's your first date or fifth anniversary. RECOMMENDED: The best rooftop bars in Singapore and The most romantic restaurants in Singapore 

You've heard it said that love doesn't need to be expressed through grand gestures, expensive meals and extravagant presents to count. But a shared meal that lingers in your memory is something worth splurging on once in a blue moon, especially if it's a special occasion. And Singapore's dining scene is well-equipped with restaurants that place ambience front and centre, while not compromising on the quality of food. We've handpicked 10 that we feel fit the bill for a romantic night out. These spots dial up the romance with beautiful decor, comfortably spaced and intimate seating, and delicious dishes that hold their own.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants with a view in Singapore, including seafront and rooftop restaurants and The most romantic bars in Singapore for date nights

Chinese New Year is soon approaching, and things are about to get hectic. Between running errands like spring cleaning, packing ang baos and procuring snacks and decorations, the last thing you'll want to worry about is having to cook and host a large group of guests. This Year of the Horse, make things a little easier for yourself by forgoing that labourious reunion dinner cookout. Instead, you and your loved ones can make merry as you tuck into one of these delicious takeaways and delivery sets recommended below. It's the perfect way to ring in the Lunar New Year – from the comfort of your own home.  Read on to find out where you can enjoy auspicious dishes prepared in the kitchens of some of Singapore's finest Chinese restaurants, fuss-free hot pot deliveries, and more. Watch this space for fresh updates on the best CNY takeaways and deliveries in Singapore this year. RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese New Year reunion dinners in Singapore 2026 and The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore

Now that we’re neck-deep into January, the year-end festivities seem a far distance behind us. Thankfully, the Chinese New Year break is soon upon us – cue all the 2026 Year of the Horse puns. As always, the hallmark of each Lunar New Year, and the main event that kickstarts the festivities, is, without a doubt, the reunion dinner. This once-a-year affair is where loved ones gather over a lavish spread to usher in another year of prosperity and abundance. Once again, Singapore’s best Chinese restaurants have brought their A-game, with show-stopping set menus, creative yu sheng displays, and plenty of luxurious ingredients worth ditching that diet for. Here’s our pick of the best Chinese New Year reunion dinners in Singapore for 2026 – book early, dress up and get ready to feast. Watch this space for fresh updates on the best restaurants to dine at this Lunar New Year. RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore

Whether you’re a visitor planning your very first visit to Singapore, or a Singaporean mapping out a special occasion in the city, choosing a hotel in Singapore is an important (and sometimes overwhelming) task. With so many spectacular stays to choose between – from the world-famous Raffles to new boutique stays like 21 Carpenter – it can be challenging to decide which is best for you. To help you determine which hotel to book for your next visit or staycation, our team of local editors (including Time Out Singapore Editor Cheryl Sekkappan, Regional Content Director for Time Out APAC Nicole-Marie Ng and local writer Dewi Nurjuwita) have tried and tested the city’s top-ranking hotels to determine which are worth your time.The list has been overseen by Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC and self-confessed hotel obsessive. Each hotel has been chosen based on amenities, design and proximity to the city’s highlights – with many hotels on the list within walking distance of the best restaurants and bars in Singapore.Read on for our guide to the very best hotels in Singapore right now. Our Hotel Editor's picks for the best hotels in Singapore: Best boutique stay: QT SingaporeBest hotel for families: Mandarin Oriental SingaporeBest luxury hotel: Raffles Hotel SingaporeBest beachside stay: Capella Singapore RECOMMENDED: The best Singapore attractions to visitThe best rooftop bars in SingaporeAirport hotels in SingaporeThe best luxury hotels in Singapore At Time Out, all of

There’s a reason Singapore remains one of the cocktail capitals of Asia, if not the world. Yes, we have to acknowledge that the F&B industry is feeling the squeeze with rising rents, manpower shortages and inflation pushing the average cocktail north of $25. But the Singapore drinker has a refined palate, and the drinks here are absolutely world-class and well worth the pretty penny. Throw that penny in almost any direction, and you’ll land at a solid bar. But since you’re here on Time Out, let us help. This is our constantly updated list of the best bars in Singapore right now – the places we’re drinking at, talking about, and recommending to our friends. You’ll find classy cocktail bars with excellent drinks (and food), trendy listening lounges, natural wine hangouts and divey beer joints. January 2026: New names to know include Pop City X Pony, a new CBD hideout inspired by Japanese city pop. Old favourites like Native and Nutmeg & Clove continue to prove their staying power, while Side Door, Offtrack and Fura keep things fun, fresh and future-facing.  Check out Singapore's most exciting new bars here and here. Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants.

Good riddance, 2025. Bid farewell to the year, however it might have been for you, and usher in a new season the proper way: with lavish meals, a glass of bubbly and perhaps a view of the iconic fireworks display at Marina Bay. While you reflect and reminisce on the past months with friends and loved ones, let masterful chefs guide you through well-curated feasts, whether it's a full-on Mexican spread with tropical cocktails or a classy Italian dinner with champagne in tow. Our picks of New Year's Eve venues this year range from sky-high restaurants to waterfront joints perfect for casual, fuss-free parties.   RECOMMENDED: The best New Year's Eve parties and events in Singapore

For some, nothing quite beats ending the day with cocktails and good conversations with friends. Thankfully, Singapore is home to some of the best bars in Asia and even in the world. Some of these establishments might even be hidden in plain sight right next to your workplace. Whether it’s a classic martini or a completely customised drink you’re after, we’ve got just the spots that can shake up a quality tipple to your liking. From reliable all-time favourites, to secret cocktail dens, speakeasy and bespoke joints, these are the hottest cocktail bars you should be hitting up once the day dims. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best bars in Singapore and The best wine bars in Singapore

For many, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. Not just because of the gatherings, but because of the festive feasts that come in tow. And while traditional roasts, glazed ham and the like will forever have their place at the table, Christmas dining in Singapore is also evolving. Our festive menu picks this year go beyond the usual suspects, ranging from a Provençal-style brunch trolley and a forest-fringed farm-to-table experience, to halal-friendly spreads and indulgent steakhouse classics. And if you’re plotting even more festive celebrations, check out our guides to the best Christmas buffets and Christmas delivery or takeaway options in Singapore.   

Prefer hosting warm, intimate gatherings at home instead of jostling with the holiday crowd in town? Skip the stress (and mess) of meal prep, and look to these Christmas delivery and takeaway options instead. We've put together a solid list that spans glorious roasts and seafood platters made for festive celebrations, with dazzling logcakes and desserts that tie it all together.  Most of these restaurants and venues have already begun taking pre-orders. Some bundles are available for self-pickup at your own convenience, or direct delivery to your doorstep when you hit a minimum spend. And if you're smart about it, you'll make full use of the early bird offers to snag a good deal and ease your mind before the festive season rolls in full force.  Read on for our Christmas delivery and takeaway recommendations for 2025, and what you can do to score discounts on some of these feasts. RECOMMENDED: The best Christmas dinners in Singapore for 2025 and The best new restaurants in Singapore

Chilli crab is Singapore's national dish – agree or disagree? No matter the answer, there's no denying that it's an iconic dish loved by foreigners and locals alike. Spicy, sweet, starchy and savoury, chilli crab always hits the spot, especially when accompanied with steaming hot mantou, dunked into that pool of red, saucy goodness. The dish is said to have been invented in the 1950s when a lady called Cher Yam Tian added bottled chilli sauce instead of the usual tomato ketchup to her stir-fried crab dish. Shortly after, Cher opened Palm Beach Restaurant along East Coast Road, and everyone went wild over her invention.  Today, you can find chilli crab at just about every local seafood or zi char joint. But not everyone gets the sauce just right, or uses meaty crabs that are oh-so satisfying. Whether it's your first or 100th time trying the dish, here are the seafood joints serving up plates of chilli crab that don't disappoint. RECOMMENDED The best local food in Singapore and The best chicken rice in Singapore Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.

Orchard Road has gotten quite the glow-up recently, with several new properties joining the belt, from trendy boutique hotel The Standard to The Singapore Edition, a symbol of modern luxury. Then there’s the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, sitting on the fringe of Orchard and away from the buzz. This five-star establishment turns 31 this year but somehow remains an enduring favourite among business folks and vacationers alike.  Don’t be fooled by its age; the interiors carry a touch of old-school grandeur without feeling dated or old-fashioned. And while its most recent major refresh was in 2018, the upkeep since then has been excellent. But appearances aside, things are constantly evolving at Four Seasons to keep up with the times. Case in point: a new modern Asian direction at the hotel’s day-to-night dining spot One-Ninety, and a wellness slant that includes new pickleball courts, a gorgeous gym and even a longevity clinic. Here’s the full lowdown on what it’s like staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore in 2025. Why stay at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore? Photograph: Four Seasons Hotel Singapore The real win is the location. Despite being just a short stroll from the chaos of Orchard Road, the hotel feels wonderfully private, likely thanks to the thick ring of foliage surrounding the building, which helps dampen noise from the main road. The space is another huge plus. One of the perks of staying in an older building is the generous room sizes;

At our peak, we've been here thrice in two weeks. All for one thing: the Lean & Rich morning platter ($11), a simple but golden combination of some of the best sourdough we've had, together with a soft-boiled egg, cheese, whipped butter, fig jam and a teaspoon of Maldon sea salt. It's one spread that'll have you thinking you could do with an extra slice of sourdough. Do note that this tends to run out before noon, so make sure to get there after 8.30am to avoid disappointment.  Otherwise, the gorgonzola and pecan ($8) is our second pick, with a creamy spread of the blue cheese – not as pungent as you might imagine – with sweet, caramelised pecans, encased in shatteringly-crisp and fluffy ciabatta slices. We'd skip the caponata and burrata ($21) and apple and brie croissant ($12) as the former can be a tad unseasoned on off-days, while the croissant simply isn't as good as the other fresh bakes. Complete your brunch with the supergrain latte ($7.50), a take on the traditional Korean mitsugaru drink, a healthy blend of roasted and ground grains and beans with a nutty and malty flavour. Lean & Rich's co-founder, Hong Ui Chang, was formerly the head baker at the popular café Tartine in Hannam-dong, Seoul, before moving to Singapore to start his own bakery.

This crêperie along South Bridge Road has one of the unlikeliest of beginnings. And by unlikely, we mean it started in 2018 as a crêperie boat which sailed along the Swedish Archipelago. Well, Madam Flod has finally landed on shore – Singapore's shores – last year, and it now serves its French-style savoury galettes and sweet crêpes to anyone curious enough to give them a try. The buckwheat galettes come in eight mouthwatering flavours. Our picks are the complète ($20), which is a fail-proof medley of egg, ham, emmental cheese, salad and vinaigrette, as well as the ratatouille ($21), layered with grilled vegetables, egg, chorizo sausages and Bellota Iberico.  No visit to Madam Flod is complete without ordering a dessert crêpe, and our recommendation is the sugar, butter and lemon ($11), which is equal parts sweet and tangy. And to complete the experience, order a bottle of traditional French apple cider from Bretagne (from $33 for sweet and $35 for dry) to share – you'll thank us later.     

MOGĀ, the Japanese Prohibition-inspired izakaya-bar at Pullman Singapore Hill Street, turns two this year, and it sure knows how to throw a party – or five. The bar will be hosting 10 guest shifts across five days in November, featuring some of Asia's most popular bars. The month-long revelry kicks off with Kuala Lumpur's Penrose and Reka:Bar on November 1, followed by a spotlight on rising stars in Indonesia on November 5 and 10, with bars like BlowJams and Naaga joining the fray. It's then Hong Kong's time to shine, with The Old Man and Quinary stopping by on November 17. The party concludes with Seoul heavy-hitters Villa Records and Soko on November 24. Adding to the excitement, MOGĀ will be offering one-for-one cocktails off its new menu, Kiyoko's Journey, available all month till November 29.  Make a reservation here.

Submerge yourself in the rich culture of the Fujian community at this educational festival in Telok Ayer. The Singapore Hokkien Festival is returning for its eighth edition from November 7 to 9 at Telok Ayer Street, at the plaza opposite Thian Hock Keng Temple. The vibrant three-day celebration will be jam-packed with cultural performances, a Hokkien street food galore and plenty of family-friendly activities. Enjoy traditional Chinese music and opera performances – and even a singalong on Sunday afternoon – ancient poetry recitals in Hokkien, puppetry and tea ceremony demonstrations. A special exhibition featuring 12 rubbings of stone steles will be set up at the Level 2 Exhibition Hall in Chong Wen Ge, and it's completely free to visit. For those who don't mind getting their hands dirty, sign up for festival workshops ($23 per person or $23 per parent-child pair) like ang ku kueh and huat kueh making, or have a go at the ancient art of stone rubbing.  And what better way to learn about a culture than through its food? Go on a Hokkien food crawl at the festival ($20 per food coupon), with authentic Hokkien fare prepared by 15 Fujian clan associations. Think fried red yeast duck and red glutinous rice wine chicken, as well as Fuzhou egg noodles and stir-fried Xinghua vermicelli. Register for workshops here and pre-order food coupons here. Find out more about the festival here.

The stars align once again: Capella Singapore and Capella Bangkok present the second edition of Constellation of Cocktails this November, a series of bar crossovers. This time, Stella Bar from Bangkok will be taking over The Pineapple Room at Capella Singapore for two nights on November 7 and 8. On the menu? Stella Bar's latest cocktail series, Journey into the New Siam, featuring creative drinks that embody both elements of Thai royal heritage and contemporary Bangkok. Sip on signature creations ($28 each) like Siam 5.0, Bangkok Noir, Prathet Thai and the Umami Martini. And don't miss the Capella Sling, exclusively crafted by The Pineapple Room for this pop-up. The cocktail is the bar's take on – you guessed it – the iconic Singapore Sling, and will be available throughout November. 

To get to Aniba, you’ll first need to locate its inconspicuous entrance by the Singapore River and head up a private elevator. From there, follow the dimly-lit, cavernous entrance and it’ll take you to the modern Middle Eastern restaurant, fitted with a bustling chef’s kitchen, stunning riverfront views, and a cocktail bar with unique glowing orbs that come alive every now and then. The vibe From casual catch-ups to celebratory nights out, Aniba knows how to set the scene. Mood lighting, lively chatter, and a playlist that keeps the energy just right make it impossible not to linger. The food Aniba’s menu is all about versatility: small bites, hearty sharing plates, or a full-on feast. The latest seasonal menu is built around three categories: Dine, Bites, and Breads. Highlights include fresh hamachi tartare with green gazpacho ($28), fish kebab on Moroccan couscous ($54), and eggplant carpaccio with tahini and pistachios ($31). Plus house-baked breads from Kubaneh ($14) and Jerusalem bagel ($14) go perfectly with rich dips like hummus, labaneh, spicy schug, and harissa. Every dish showcases high-quality ingredients and carefully curated Middle Eastern spices. The drink Aniba's centrepiece is a glowing counter under a dramatic tree lamp, where the bartenders shake up cocktails ($25) infused with elements of storytelling and surprise. If you've got an adventurous palates, sip on the bold Coffee, the herbaceous Okra, or the subtly spiced Tea and Sesame cocktails – each one a

Calling all sake lovers: Singapore’s largest sake festival returns for its 11th edition at a brand new location: Jewel Changi Airport. Held at the Changi Experience Studio from October 31 to November 2, Sake Matsuri 2025 will feature over 150 sake breweries and more than 400 labels from across Japan and beyond – its biggest line-up to date. The cherry on top? Views of Jewel's iconic rain vortex as you sip and savour. There will be a total of nine sessions held throughout the festival weekend. During each two or three-hour window, festival-goers will get to enjoy free-flow samples of sake and receive a complimentary Sake Matsuri tasting glass to bring home. You’ll also get to purchase bottles of your favourite sake and spirits at exclusive festival prices.  The grand showcase will feature plenty of award-winning names and rare labels, including the premium Junmai Daiginjo, which is brewed with highly polished rice to give a light, complex and fragrant flavour; as well as Namazakes or unpasteurised sake. Also look out for rare sake made with traditional methods like Bodaimoto and Kimoto, one-of-a-kind Doburoku brews, as well as a range of shochu and Japanese spirits at the festival.  There are also all-day VIP passes on Friday and Saturday for enthusiasts who want more bang for their buck. With the pass, guests can participate in two unlimited tasting sessions of two hours each and one three-hour session – that's seven hours in total. You'll also have VIP access to a lounge are

There's plenty to look forward to at the IKEA Family Fest 2025, including the launch of IKEA's cutest merch yet – a limited-edition meatball plush keychain. These mini-sized plushies are being given out for free, but only to IKEA Family members who spend a minimum of $50 on home furnishing items in-store. All you have to do is flash your IKEA Family card and the receipt of your in-store purchases at the redemption booths from noon to 4pm daily. On top of that, there are plenty more family-friendly activities, discounts on home essentials and dining deals to get excited for. On September 6 and 7, pair up with your child in a race to assemble a 14-piece kitchen toy set and win a fun prize, and on September 13 and 14, let the young ones participate in a customisable keychain-making workshop. Other activities include a teddy bear mascot meet-and-greet, a terrarium workshop and more. IKEA Family members will also score 20 percent off home furnishing items, with discounts applied to different categories throughout the Family Fest, such as bedroom essentials, storage solutions and kitchenware. And even if you’re just visiting for a meal, there are attractive dining deals to look out for as well, including 40 Swedish meatballs and mashed potatoes in a bucket for $18.90 (usually priced at $27) and more.

Hidden on the second floor of a restored 1930s shophouse, Gibson has always been a little off the radar, and that’s part of its charm. To find the bar, you’ll first have to spot the seafood restaurant Humpback along Bukit Pasoh Road, enter through a door on the side, walk past another cocktail bar (Live Twice) and climb up a flight of stairs. Upon entering, you’ll first notice a gorgeous green marble table, lit by the gentle glow radiating from stained-glass windows. If you’ve been to Gibson any time in the last 10 years, you might remember the bar team’s unlikely get-up: tailored suits and bow ties paired with – you guessed it – bermudas. To mark its 10th year, the suit-and-shorts combo has been swapped for relaxed green overshirt jackets and comfy slacks. But attire aside, it’s the dusty pink 10th anniversary menu, called Timeless, that truly signals a new era for the bar.  Yes, the namesake Gibson cocktail ($28) remains – how could it not? The bar’s rendition of the classic dry martini is served at a chilling -15 degrees celsius, featuring Roku gin, house-made ginjo sake-vermouth and a pickled pearl onion garnish, accompanied by condiments of pickled pomelo, sliced pickled onion and smoked quail egg.  But that’s not what we’re here for. Instead, it’s the team’s shiny new creation, the MF Martini ($28), that comes highly recommended in this latest refresh. MF, short for “made for fries”, tells you everything you need to know about how this drink should be enjoyed. The stiff

If you’re looking for somebody to match your freak, this silly, goose-themed drinking hole at Stanley Road might just fit the bill. It’s duck-everything here, from the nondescript red door plastered with a goose sticker, to the duck-ified posters of pop-culture references on the walls, and adorable duck lamps that line each table.  Volume 2 of Silly Goose’s menu is a wacky departure from its debut menu, which was a tribute to hip-hop. This round, the bar shakes up 12 cocktails inspired by episodes of their favourite childhood cartoons – think iconic series like SpongeBob SquarePants and The Fairly OddParents. Each drink is named after the actual title of the episode it’s crafted based on. For starters, sip on Operation Flavor ($24), where Discarded Rum, cacao-infused stout cream and vanilla strawberry margarine shine in this sweet number inspired by Codename: Kids Next Door. The milkshake-like concoction might come with a freakish goose straw, but flavour-wise, no fowl play detected. We want so badly to love The Green Tea Ceremony ($24) – named after Iroh’s (from Avatar: The Legend of Aang) favourite drink – but the herbal notes brought out by the blend of Glenfiddich 12, lychee tea and ginger beer might just not be everyone’s cup of tea.  Cereal Killers ($24) is our pick of the night, and this Rugrats-inspired cocktail served in a wine glass also turns out to be owner Stanley’s favourite on the current menu. Stranger & Sons gin, acidified orange juice and orange liqueur fo

EG Coffee is a new café located below Alexis Condominium, which is an eight-minute walk from Queenstown MRT. The setup is simple – white and light-wood tones with four small tables indoors, and foldable camping chairs outdoors, where pets are welcome. The interiors are peppered with quirky knick-knacks, including a mini Sudoku corner where you can have a go at a puzzle while waiting. A friendly couple, Esther and Gavin (after whom the café is named), run the place. For a small neighbourhood café, EG Coffee offers a surprisingly extensive drinks menu. It’s got the usual roster of espresso-based drinks (a latte starts at $6.50, which is not the cheapest), filter coffee (from $9) and cold brews ($9). The proprietary Icons Blend is a medium-to-dark roast Guatemala and Uganda blend which is smooth and chocolatey with hints of caramel. You can also opt for Geisha and Yirgacheffe beans at a top-up, or ask the barista for the origin of the day. There are also interesting options like the dried orange latte ($6.90), mint coconut latte ($7.90), black sesame latte ($6.50), osmanthus latte ($6.90), as well as strawberry matcha ($9.50) and hojicha ($7.90). The black sesame latte ($7.50) is one of the most ordered items here, with a thick, velvety consistency, and a toasty, slightly savoury flavour. To beat the heat, EG also has refreshing soda-based coolers like the Strawberry Bliss ($6.50), Apple Tree ($7.50), Orange Sea ($7.50) and yuzu matcha ($8.90), as well as iced teas (from $5.90)

The opening of Italian deli Mamma Mia Focaccia last October was met with snaking queues and plenty of online hype. It is, after all, Singapore's first focaccia-led sandwich parlour, with a prominent location along Amoy Street. The shop drew attention for its bright red facade, fuss-free grab-and-go concept, strong Italian coffee, and of course, its focaccia sandwiches stuffed with fresh deli fillings. In 2026, Mamma Mia Focaccia is introducing a bunch of upgrades in response to feedback from guests – think half sandwich portions, new menu items and extended opening hours.  First up, the deli's 10 signature sandwiches (from $13) are now available in half sizes. Yes, you're now able to mix and match everything from the namesake Mamma Mia with mortadella, stracciatella and pistachio, to the spicy Salame sandwich. This caters to folks who prefer a smaller, lighter lunch as opposed to a hefty stack, those who want the chance to try out different flavour combinations, or those who simply don't want to splash more than $15 on a sandwich. The priciest items are the San Daniele and Coppa ($14 for half, $24 for full), while wallet-friendly options include the spicy tuna-stuffed Tonno, Vegetariano and Nutella ($9 for half, $14 for full). Photograph: Time Out Singapore | Porchetta On top of that, the store has also expanded its beverage menu, from previously only serving punchy Italian espresso-based drinks, to now offering matcha and hojicha. And more menu upgrades are in the works. A

A new Italian deli is setting up shop along Amoy Street, and it’s all about focaccia by day and champagne by night. Mamma Mia Focaccia officially opens its doors on October 21 with a four-day launch promotion till October 24, where the first 50 sandwiches daily (from 11am to noon) are completely free. After that, they’re yours at $10 each, which is still quite the steal.  The grab-and-go joint is run by the same folks behind popular F&B concepts like Asador and Next Door Spanish Cafe, and is open on weekdays only. We see it quickly becoming a go-to lunch spot for those working around the CBD or along Amoy Street, especially if you’re not feeling the heat and queues at Amoy Street Food Centre that day. There are no seats here, just standing counters.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore Mamma Mia Focaccia’s house-made focaccia is long-fermented and baked fresh daily, then toasted again before serving so it reaches you warm and with a crunchy exterior. The golden, pillowy slices come plain instead of seasoned with herbs, tomatoes or olives like you might expect, to let the spotlight shine on the fresh deli fillings. Pick from 10 sandwiches on the menu, stuffed with anything from San Daniele ham ($24) and 'nduja ($22), to stacks layered with spicy salami ($18) and coppa ($24).  Photograph: Mamma Mia Focaccia Prices start from $14 for the vegetarian option with grilled vegetables, red pesto, pickled onions and mascarpone – a surprising banger with the grilled artichokes standing o

Singaporeans are serial travellers and serious foodies, perpetually seeking out our next vacation or favourite dining destination. Put those two together, and it's no surprise that we rank among the world's top countries that foodie travellers hail from. According to Trip.com's Why Travel? Report in August 2025, Google searches for "food travel" and "Michelin guide" jumped 18 percent and 22 percent respectively, while food-related bookings on the site rose by 43 percent.  Later in December 2025, Trip.com also released more insights from its Trip.Best Southeast Asia Travel Trends Unpacked event, where it shared that 70 percent of Singaporean travellers rank "Local Food & Dining Experiences" among their top three factors when choosing a travel destination. Food isn't just a side quest on holidays anymore – for many, it's the main event.  And among cities known for food, the site highlights five in particular that foodies should be keeping an eye on. First up is Chengdu, China, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Chinese cities have been enjoying a renaissance lately, with Trip.com reporting a 315 percent growth for Chengdu on the website's Trip.Best Global Rankings. A YouGov study in December 2025 also identified China as an increasingly popular value-for-money holiday destination.  Photograph: René DeAnda | Unsplash Within East Asia, other foodie destinations include Jeju Island, South Korea, for its bountiful seafood spreads and black pork barbecue, and Fukuoka, Japan, for its atm

Singapore's vibrant F&B scene extends beyond our hawker fare and outstanding fine dining repertoire. Our island has got an impressive list of fast food chains to boot as well, from the recently opened Chick-fil-A Singapore and Sides by YouTubers The Sidemen, to news of Chipotle setting foot in the country this year.  Next month, another big name is joining the game, and it's none other than fast food giant Lotteria from South Korea. On February 11, 2026, the brand will unveil its very first Singapore outlet and seventh overseas outpost in Jewel Changi Airport. Very soon, Singaporeans and travellers stopping by Changi Airport will have a chance to dig into the chain's best-selling Korean-style burgers and cheese sticks, short of a plane ticket to Seoul.  Lotteria has been around since 1979 and is Korea's first official hamburger restaurant. It currently has over 1600 stores in seven countries, and its expansion to Singapore is thanks to Katrina Group, who are also responsible for bringing in popular concepts like Daily Beer in 2024 – Korea's largest craft beer and fried chicken chain.  Photograph: Lotteria | Mozzarella Burger Tomato Basil The 60-seater store will be located at Basement 1 of Jewel Changi, facing the iconic HSBC Rain Vortex. Diners can expect Lotteria signatures like Ria's Bulgogi Burger, Ria's Shrimp Burger, the Mozzarella Burger Tomato Basil, alongside sides and desserts like the long cheese sticks, Shake Shake Fries and Shake Shake Nuggets. More excitingly,

January blues? Don't know her. Especially not with all the exciting new restaurants in Singapore's F&B scene giving us plenty of reasons to head out and have a good time. Just like December, this month is flooded with restaurant openings, timed perfectly for the upcoming Valentine's Day and Lunar New Year season. But instead of inundating you with options, here are five that we think might be worth the reservation.  Leading the charge is Barrel, a moody Hibiki whisky-forward izakaya in the CBD – a stellar recommendation for whisky lovers. Then there's Loca Niru, breathing new life into a 140-year-old restored Teochew Mansion in Singapore with its elegant French-Japanese tasting menu. For something different, nourish your belly with Korean chicken soup from Bomul Samgyetang, or pop by MyX's unique lending library and vinyl station after feasting on a Latin American spread. And finally, take the kids out for a treat at Moutarde and the adjacent Sundae Royale for nostalgic, colourful sundae towers in 10 different flavours.  Discover Singapore's best new restaurants here.  1. Barrel Story of Hibiki Photograph: Barrel Story of Hibiki Barrel Story of Hibiki is a new whisky-forward restaurant and bar spearheaded by the Japanese spirits brand Suntory, marking the first Hibiki whisky concept restaurant outside of Japan. The restaurant takes over the unit once occupied by American grill-house Rosemead, and reimagines it as a modern izakaya, with dimly-lit interiors clad in dark wood

Orchard Road is fully lit, the Christmas jingles are blasting in malls, and the festive season is officially in full swing. If you're already plotting your Christmas meals and New Year's Eve dinners ahead of time, you'll also want to keep an eye on the latest additions to the city's dining scene. December always brings a flurry of openings, but this month feels especially stacked. Which is why we've narrowed it down to five new establishments that we feel are most worth your time and attention this busy season.  Japanese brands never fail to win our hearts, and we've got Udon Shin and Sushidan for silky udon noodles and affordable sushi this month. The National Gallery Singapore's revamp is also underway, and with that, the museum introduces a new Eurasian heritage restaurant by chef-personality Damian D'Silva. For an elegant Italian meal, head to L’Amo Bistrò del Mare at the brand new Mett Singapore hotel in Fort Canning. And nothing quite beats the novelty, charm and deliciousness of Korean barbecue, and the new Joong San in Telok Ayer might just be your next go-to in that category. Explore Singapore’s 2025 restaurant openings by month: New restaurants in November New restaurants in October New restaurants in September New restaurants in August New restaurants in July New restaurants in June New restaurants in May New restaurants in April New restaurants in March New restaurants in February New restaurants in January Discover the best new restaurants in Singapore this yea

Singapore isn't just a haven for street food and Michelin restaurants. An equal amount of craft and care also goes into our beverage scene – the oft-forgotten 'B' in F&B. 2025 proved that our bars and cafés are only getting more experimental and confident with their creations. This year, our writers and editors slipped into new bars and cafés and revisited plenty of old favourites, sipping on everything from classic cocktails executed to near perfection, to zero-proof drinks that incorporate mixology techniques, taking coffee to the next level. This is a carefully considered list zooming in on the very best, most memorable drinks we've had this year – and exactly where you can find them.  1. Twisties Sour from The Store Photograph: The Store The Store is easily one of our favourite neighbourhood cocktail joints, with a discreet entrance, casual living room-inspired space and a comfortable, non-intimidating environment all 'round. Plus points go to its exceptional pours. The cocktail list has 12 interesting concoctions from a highly raved coffee kombucha espresso martini to a blueberry cheesecake-flavoured cocktail with Parmigiano-infused bourbon. But a go-to for us is the Twisties Sour – an ingenious take on a childhood snack with Twisties-infused Tito's vodka, and the snack itself served on the side.  "Actually not a huge fan of the Twisties snack, so this surprised me! It's light and refreshing, and with an unmistakable whiff of cheesy corn. You won't catch me eating Twis

Fans of Sugarhall raised one last toast when the rum bar closed on July 26 this year. Word was that its parent company Jigger & Pony would, in collaboration with House of Suntory, transform the former speakeasy into a vibrant cocktail bar with Japanese influences. Enter Pop City X Pony.  Seasoned barflies and Sugarhall regulars will know their way around Cecil Street. But if it’s your first time, here’s a tip: skirt around the back of the restaurant Barrel: Story of Hibiki to reach a narrow back alley, spot the neon-pink signboard and head up to the second floor and through the unmarked black door.  Photograph: Pop City X Pony Design buffs will marvel at the details that embellish the space, from couches fitted with textured kimono fabric to walls and ceilings lined with Japan’s iconic ichimatsu (checkerboard) pattern.  The room is intentionally – though not quite discernibly – divided into four zones, subtly altering your experience depending on where you plant yourself for the evening. Get close to the action and interact with the team at the bar counter, where an intricate hand-stitched byōbu (Japanese folding screen) serves as the backdrop. The Tasting Commons and After Hours Salon are ideal for group gatherings, with modular, interchangeable furniture that allows for flexible seating.  Bars within bars are becoming increasingly commonplace these days. At Pop City X Pony, you can book out a private session at the sectioned-off Bar Mixtape, a cosy nook fitted with its o

As we reach the tail end of 2025, it’s time to look back on another eventful year in Singapore’s food and drink scene. Over the past few weeks, we’ve rolled out our annual recommendations of the cafés, restaurants, bars and hawkers we loved this year, alongside a curated list of the best new openings of the last 12 months. This got us thinking about the conversations that dominated the year and shaped the industry in 2025.  Before we start, do note that this is a purely vibes-based roundup. We’ve got no hard data or numbers to show, only thoughts and quips from what we’ve heard in queues, group chats, comment sections and across our own desks at Time Out. Take this as a Spotify Wrapped of sorts, except for all things food and drink in Singapore. Tell us if any of these resonate with you, and continue watching this space for the latest happenings in the city. 1. Closures Photograph: Privé Group One dominant emotion among foodies and F&B folks in 2025 has to be disbelief. The year saw a steady stream of closures that rattled everyone, and after being inundated by headline after headline, that shock gradually turned into fatigue. Flor Patisserie, Keong Saik Bakery, Burp Kitchen & Bar: gone. Privé Group shuttered all its venues. Supposedly successful international chains fled too, including the likes of Burger & Lobster, Eggslut and Fluff Stack. And Michelin-starred restaurants weren’t spared either. As we bid goodbye to nine one-starred establishments, we’re reminded of the ha

If there's one thing we did well this year, it was eating, and eating... and eating. We travelled to the West for banger pastries and Singapore's best bowl of noodles, forked out good money for experiences at up-and-coming restaurants, supported that small business owner who runs a takeaway kiosk near our house, and discovered vibey new spots in town. So when it was time to pick our favourite and most memorable dish of the year, we scratched our heads and agonised over our decisions. And finally, we landed on five that ultimately left a lasting impression on our editors and writers. Here are all the standout dishes that we absolutely loved this year, and exactly where you can find them in Singapore. 1. Fennel and sage sausage roll from Wheathead Photograph: Wheathead We recently crowned this unassuming bakery our favourite in the West, and that's a big claim to make, considering a few flaws: its location, price, standing-only dining area and lack of freshly brewed coffee. Despite all that, something about Wheathead clearly won us over. And that something was its excellent pastries, from the divine banana cream pie ($14.50), which was crumbly and chunky in all the right places, to this flaky sausage roll ($18) that lives in our head rent-free. "This caught me by surprise because I wasn't expecting much from a humble sausage roll. But the meat was super juicy and fragrant with herbs, with the most buttery crust you could hope for. Everytime I go back to Wheathead, I always ke

Let's not ignore the elephant in the room: it's been a glum year for F&B in Singapore. Our favourite restaurants are shuttering before we can even make our way back for a last meal, and the farewell fatigue is getting to everyone. But there is always something worth celebrating. Despite some heartbreaking goodbyes this year, we've also welcomed an avalanche of new restaurants into the scene, opened by profiles ranging from budding F&B hopefuls to industry veterans and international F&B chains.  In 2025 alone, Time Out covered a whopping 60 new restaurants in total, or five each month, featured in our monthly roundups of the city's most exciting openings (see our latest picks for December here). Some were hits, some were misses. And some truly dazzled, whether with their food, ambience, value, or all of the above. Ideally, we'd have narrowed down our top picks to 12 spots, with one for each month. But as it turned out, there were plenty of meals that impressed this year, and shortening the list seems needless, no? Photograph: Magpie So there you have it, the 16 best restaurant openings of 2025 in Singapore. These are the places our team can confidently vouch for, based on our firsthand experience dining there at the time of opening. The list spans the globe, from Japanese, Korean and Spanish, to Italian, Latin American and Sri Lankan, showing how Singapore continues to be a reliable testbed for international cuisines, thanks to the diverse and adventurous palates of diners h

There was a collective sigh when Park Bench Deli (PBD) closed its doors on Telok Ayer Road in 2023. For many, it wasn't just a sandwich shop or café, but a brunch institution, and the ultimate go-to when it came to American-style sandwiches in Singapore. One thing's for sure, it definitely whetted our appetite and paved the way for many sandwich joints to come – think Korio, Joji's Deli, and even the most recently opened Mamma Mia Focaccia. Nearly three years after it shuttered, Park Bench Deli is making a comeback... of sorts. While it will not be opening a permanent shop, the brand will be holding a three-month pop-up at The Pantry in Dempsey, starting on January 10. Here's the brief: Pop by between 9am to 4pm if you want the OG PBD experience. Sausage egg muffins ($15) and the PBD Big Breakfast ($30) are served in the morning, and it's only after 11am when the fan-favourite Park Bench Deli sandwiches are fired up. Yes, the Pastrami Reuben ($34), Southern-style hot fried chicken ($28) and Philly Cheesesteak ($29) will all be available. If you're spoilt for choice, we recommend going for the Pastrami Reuben, an American classic with thick, juicy beef pastrami brisket, provolone and coleslaw between slices of toasted sourdough. Photograph: Park Bench Deli | Southern-style Hot Fried Chicken On weekend evenings from 6pm to 10pm, sandwiches are swapped out for burgers by PBD's sister concept, Rosita's Deluxe. On the menu: smashed, double-stacked cheeseburgers. Keep it classic