Adira Chow

It’s 10.30am on a Monday, and a quiet buzz surrounds People’s Park Food Centre as stalls are thick in their preparation for the lunch time rush. But we’re not here to get our hands on scrumptious plates of hawker fare. Instead, we’re looking for something else, something that goes into almost every Singaporean dish that we know and love: spices.  Anthony the Spice Maker Round the corner on the third floor of the complex, we find what – or rather who – we’re searching for. Meet Anthony, or as his loyal customers unanimously call him, ‘Anthony the Spice Maker’. That’s also the name of his spice shop which has been around since 1986, also known as Liao Jia Xiang Trading prior to 2009. The practice of spice making may be as old as history itself, but shops that still sell freshly ground spices are pretty much a rarity these days. A second-generation spice maker, Anthony learned the ropes from his parents who owned a spice business in the 70s. But they weren’t his only teachers. Frequent patrons of the store – mostly grandmothers who cooked at home – would request for him to customise rempah (spice paste) based on their ‘secret’ family recipes. From there, he quickly amassed a treasure trove of hand-me-down recipes from all around the country. Photograph: Daniel Iskandar One thing to know about Anthony is that he is a stickler for tradition and an advocate for modernity all at once. Unlike an ordinary spice shop in a market, he owns a cushy air-conditioned unit with shelves of

Sengkang has just been given quite the facelift in a bid to spruce up our heartlands and make them equally as vibrant as downtown Singapore. With that comes the opening of the new Anchorvale Village Hawker Centre and adjacent Anchorvale Village mall – introducing tons more affordable food options to those around the area.  The new hawker centre seats up to 650 diners across its 192 tables and sees a total of 36 food and beverage stalls. Things are kept relatively wallet-friendly to cater to all patrons. Diners can get a cup of Kopi O or Teh O at $1, and breakfast sets from as low as $2.20. Each food stall also offers value meal options from $3.50 if you’re on a budget.  While you’ll find everything from Hakka thunder tea rice, to barbecued seafood with biryani, pig’s organ soup, and Thai Banana fritters, these are the five most highly-anticipated stalls to open at the hawker centre. We put them to the test to see if they’re worth the hype. Give these a shot if it’s your first time here, or if you have yet to visit the other outlets of these famous stalls.

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition. Call it a colonial hangover, but it makes for the perfect occasional splurge and a great way to spend the afternoon catching up with old friends. After all, what’s not to love about hitting pause and nibbling on delectable sweets and savouries on a plush, comfortable sofa? Here's where to go to raise your pinkies and clink glasses. RECOMMENDED: The most Instagrammable cafés in Singapore and the best cafés in Singapore for dessert

Whether you’re looking for all the fresh seafood on ice you can eat, grilled meats fresh off the barbecue or just a free-flowing booze parade, these brunch buffets have got you covered. Savour opulent buffet spreads with your family, or head to an adults-only boozy brunch and take relaxing to a whole new level. So save your coffee and boring oats for the weekdays and look forward to a luxurious brunch, because you deserve it – free-flow champagne optional. RECOMMENDED: The best brunch spots in Singapore and The best tea rooms in Singapore for afternoon tea

Quality and quantity don’t typically go hand in hand, especially when it comes to buffets. But we found the places in Singapore that come close to perfecting the formula. From free-flow boozy brunch buffets, to classic international spreads and premium dinner curations, we’ve got just the spot for you that is guaranteed to impress your friends and family. RECOMMENDED: The best steamboat and hot pot restaurants in Singapore and The best brunch buffets in Singapore

Our tiny island is home to some of the world’s best bars, and thanks to these leading bars paving the way for the industry, we’ve got new drinking holes popping up constantly in a bid to shake up the scene. This month, we take a look at some of the latest bar openings in 2024 so far. These range from humble, under-the-radar joints, to big names in the regional and international drinking scene that have recently made Singapore home. To celebrate crossing over into the second half of the year, there’s no better time than now to raise a toast at the hottest new bars in town.  RECOMMENDED: The 50 best bars in Singapore

We’ve officially crossed into the second half of the year, and if you think that means things are finally quietening down in the food scene – think again. This month sees a slew of new openings by glitzy, renowned international chains, proving again how Singapore is a prime destination if you’re looking to feast on the best cuisines the world has to offer. Other than that, there are also a handful of joints that have quietly sprung up across the island. So whether you’re looking to splurge for a celebration this month, or just searching for a new food haunt to try out, we’ve got you sorted. Here are our picks of the best new eateries to dine at this July. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try and The 50 best bars in Singapore

June 2024 The food scene in Singapore never sleeps, and here at Time Out, we’re constantly combing through hoards of restaurants to find out what’s the best of the best – right here and right now. In this refreshed list of favourites, you’ll see exciting new dining concepts featured among some longstanding F&B stalwarts, as well as hidden gems that we swear by. Contemporary Southeast Asian restaurant Fiz is back with a new menu format with a la carte options featuring thoughtful dishes inspired by the Malay Peninsula, and Dirty Supper brings a bit of grit and style to the dining scene with its focus on whole-animal cooking and seasonal produce. Welcome to the Time Out Eat List, our handpicked best from Singapore’s food scene, ranked by expert local editors. We’ve got everything, from boundary-pushing restaurants by renowned chefs, to humble local finds that’ll impress you without breaking the bank. Choosing the 50 best places to eat is no easy feat, which is why we’ve also got separate lists for the best Japanese, Spanish and hawker joints among many others.  Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants.

Orchard Road – a haven for retail therapy and arguably one of Singapore’s most iconic districts. The street is lined with glitzy shopfronts and crowds from all around the world. Amidst all the shopping that you’ll be getting done, a meal is a must to recharge and refuel. Here are seven halal-certified eateries in Orchard Road to rest your feet, get some respite, and tuck into delicious plates. Check them out the next time you’re in town. 

Some folks are capable of heading to bed with an empty stomach, but seeing how you stumbled upon this article, you probably aren't one of them. Good news for us, because living in Singapore means we have no reason to go hungry ever, whether it's 1pm or 1am. If you're searching for places which serve up substantial and delicious grub to cure your late-night hunger pangs, look no further than this list of eateries that open deep into the night. These joints operate well past the usual 9.30pm or 10pm closing times, and some are even open for 24 hours. Whether it's a post OT-meal or a casual weekend supper with friends, saunter down to these joints and you won't walk away hangry.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore after dark and The best free things to do in Singapore at night

It’s as classic as it gets: fish and chips, a quintessentially British takeaway that’s typically wrapped in yesterday’s papers. But unlike in the UK, we don’t really have casual chippy shops located ‘round the block. Instead, the best fish and chips on the island are found in an assortment of eateries, ranging from British pubs to classy restaurants. We’ve combed through the best fish and chips restaurants on the island for the next time you have a craving for some lightly battered fillets, mushy peas, and sinful triple-cooked chips on the side. RECOMMENDED: The best pubs in Singapore and The best bars in Singapore

Singapore’s drinking scene is packed with buzzy and eclectic joints. We’ve got new spots sprouting up across the city ever so often, and longstanding favourites that keep us going back even after years. If you love sipping on a drink or two, this is the place to be. Welcome to the Time Out Drink List, our handpicked favourites from Singapore’s bar scene. These are the hottest bars in the city right now – the most inventive and most memorable watering holes, all ranked by expert local editors. We’ve got everything, from joints stocked with quality vino, speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors, whisky dens, craft beer breweries, and many more. Just remember to pace yourself, get a ride home, and drink responsibly.  Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants.

The last thing you’d expect to see wedged between floors of a car manufacturing facility is probably a restaurant helmed by a three-Michelin-starred chef. Na Oh, the new Korean joint on the third storey of the futuristic Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre Singapore (HMGICS), has caused quite a stir as one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of late. The brainchild of Corey Lee – the man behind the acclaimed Benu in San Francisco – and the Korean automotive giant Hyundai, Na Oh’s presence brings a touch of tradition and culture to the tech-heavy compound.  The restaurant is airy and capacious, with tables set further apart compared to what we’re used to. This is the west after all, and space doesn’t come with a premium as compared to downtown Singapore. Forget the clutter and commotion of a usual restaurant – what you get is a mostly calm and tranquil environment, barring the jarring sight of construction work outside, which can’t be helped. Props to the design as well, because the restaurant is elegantly accented with traditional Korean elements, from the use of hanji (Korean paper) as decor down to beautifully handcrafted tableware. Expect a four-course prix fixe menu where items are switched up according to the seasons. Now running its summer menu ($78 per person), the restaurant highlights Korean dishes regarded to be effective for combating the summer heat and nourishing the body.  As a prelude, you’ll first be served a light starter of homemade tofu with natu

Futuristic cars, high-tech smart farms, and delicious Korean food come together in Hyundai’s latest centre nestled in the far west of Singapore. The automotive giant launched the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre Singapore recently – its first global innovation hub with a car manufacturing facility, a two-storey vertical smart farm, the world’s first Skytrack circuit, and a highly anticipated restaurant launched in collaboration with a three-Michelin-starred chef.  Visitors can join a free guided Discovery Tour, which includes an experiential smart farm visit, a tasting session of freshly harvested greens, and an exhilarating spin around the Skytrack. The journey starts with an introduction to the centre and a showcase of Hyundai’s first and latest cars, demonstrating the company’s progress over the years.  Then, you’ll be led to the massive smart farm area and shown the entire farming process, from seeding to harvesting. The first floor uses a vertical system to grow kale, mizuna, sorrel, Swiss chard and other greens, while the third floor’s horizontal stacking system sees vegetables like mustard, rainbow chard, crystal green lettuce, romaine lettuce and more grown and harvested daily — in total yielding over 30 kilogrammes of fresh produce daily. These are then used in meals in the staff cafeteria, and also in dishes served in the centre’s in-house restaurant Na Oh.  As part of the experience, you’ll get to harvest your own vegetables, decorate a bag and take the gree

Marked as one of the most expensive restaurants in Singapore with its lunch menu priced at $395 and dinner menu at $580, dining at Zén is no casual affair. The three-Michelin-starred establishment is chef Björn Frantzén’s first international outpost similar to his restaurant Frantzén in Sweden which is similarly of three Michelin stars status. Now in its sixth year, the acclaimed restaurant is back with a newly launched summer menu, crafted by freshly appointed executive chefs Toraik ‘TC’ Chua and Martin Öfner. The highly anticipated menu is grounded on guiding principles and ingredients familiar to Nordic cuisine. And staying true to Zén’s reputation, only the freshest and most premium ingredients will be used. Similar to previous menus, the new summer menu consists of nine courses accompanied by canapés.  Some items to look out for include starters like the choux bun with Swedish Västerbotten cheese and Mackmyra whisky; the croustade filled with pumpkin velouté; and the vol-au-vent – a French puff pastry filled with warm mushroom miso purée. This is followed by a foie gras and fennel top parfait, and the classic, quintessentially Swedish “Raraka” with Vendace roe. For the mains, offerings include the Crudo with four-day aged Hamachi; the Chawanmushi "Ärtsoppa"; grilled Samegarei – a Japanese aged flounder; and Scottish scallop with Swedish pine shoots.  The highlights of the menu are savoured on the restaurant’s second floor, and they are none other than Zén’s signature “F

If Dionysus were to open a wine bar in the 21st century, this would most likely be how it looks like. The space at Big Wine Freaks is clad in vibrant hues of magenta, flamboyant patterned upholstery, and vintage accents all over. And its wine list sets out to impress – we’re talking a whopping 500 labels and 2000 bottles housed in the bar’s wine cellar. Instead of sticking to familiar names, the bar handpicks the finest champagnes and burgundies from new generations of wine producers. Natural wine enthusiasts will also delight in a diverse selection of organic wines from the French regions of Jura, Beaujolais and Loire, as well as those from vineyards in Spain, Austria, and Italy. The strong curation and luxurious concept translates to higher wine mark-ups, but that’s the price to pay to drink in Dionysus’ den. Chef de Cuisine Ash who hails from glitzy F&B establishments like Sago House and Burnt Ends takes care of the menu here, with a series of sharing dishes heavily focused on raw seafood. A buzzing open kitchen also melts seamlessly into the dining space, allowing diners to get in on all the action. Diners can look forward to plates of Japanese tuna, oysters and caviar, a decadent uni toast, king crab, Spanish tapas-style grilled padron peppers, gougeres, and braised lamb shoulder. Beyond food and drinks, the bar’s got all the aesthetics sorted as well, because all your drinks will be served in fancy glassware from brands from Austria, France and Japan, while dishes wi

Step into this sleek, industrial-chic space to experience what a hot take on Indian cooking tastes like. The best seats in the house are those at the counter, right in front of the flickering red embers from the Yarra woodfire. And fanning the flames in the kitchen is three Michelin-starred chef Tristin Farmer.  The Revolver journey is best experienced through the luxurious eight-course dinner Experience menu ($229) that takes you through the restaurant’s flame-kissed star dishes. You’ll be treated to the likes of N25 caviar; Scottish scallop with Chettinad pepper and butter garlic; black cod with mango and habanero sauce; Tajima striploin with Kashmir sauce, and much more.  A tandoor oven – another of the kitchen’s pride – is also used to give an alluring char to the dishes. It’s also here where the joint’s iconic Kulchette or flatbreads are made. The Kulchette is a Revolver invention, and it draws inspiration from a variety of sources like the traditional Indian kulcha, the classic Turkish pide, and even the Napoli pizza. Not a big eater? We promise that even the restaurant’s modest lunch Discovery menu ($99) is more than enough to satiate.  Things start with a refined take on the traditional palak paneer, featuring earthy spinach mash, a light cottage cheese that isn’t cloying, and topped with shishito pepper for a touch of spice. Up next is our favourite dish, the ultra tender black cod (also on the dinner menu). It’s fired up in the tandoor oven for an intense char, and

Here's one bar that doesn't treat music as an afterthought. Offtrack is a groovy watering hole serving up Pan-Asian grub and a tight selection of classic cocktails, with a side of carefully curated tunes. Conceptualised by founders of local music collectives Ice Cream Sundays and Darker Than Wax, the bar prides itself on its state-of-the-art sound system and acoustically designed space, as well as its rotation of art displays by different artists. On the menu are delicious blends ($25) ranging from light to strong drinks, from the spunky spicy paloma spiked with tequila, agave, lime, chilli and grapefruit soda, to the heady King Cole, featuring bourbon, Fernet Branca and Demerara. For something in between, sip on a creamy Gin Melon Smash, or opt for a refreshing Appletini — a fun mix of vodka, Granny Smith apple and St-Germain elderflower.  The grub menu is designed to feed and fill, so expect a decent selection of large and small plates that are good for sharing. Some favourites include the signature housemade sourdough roti ($8) which comes with savoury kombu butter and chives. Or try the spice rubbed Iberico pork collar ($40), which features an addictive spice rub, charred chives and pickle salad drizzled over with fennel gravy.

Five years on, and The Elephant Room is still staying true to its roots. The bar sets out to be a microcosm of Singapore's Indian community, with each cocktail expertly tailored to capture the essence of Little India — its sounds, scents, spices, and stories. The current menu pays homage to the hawkers, flower traders and spice traders in the enclave, who for decades have kept its distinct culture alive. You'll find mainstays like the Buffalo Road cocktail ($25) still on the menu, because the herbaceous G&T combining pink guava gin and vetiver still hits home after all these years. Don't shy away from the food-inspired tipples either — they're packed with spicy and savoury notes. Case in point: the Spiced Crab Rasam ($28), Biryani ($28), and Chicken Curry ($28).  For more local flavour, go for the reimagined Singapura Sling ($28), the bar's rendition of the national cocktail sporting earthy, fruity and refreshing notes. Snack on generous 10-inch servings of naan pizzas (from $14) with spicy chutney and you're all sorted for the evening. Original review by Nicole-Marie Ng on November 6 2019 A small crowd gathers outside 20 Teck Lim Road. They shuffle around and leave dejectedly when a waiter from perennially packed, award-winning restaurant Burnt Ends turns them away. But instead of heading off and abandoning all hope of snagging a reservation, they could have tried their luck by waiting at the new bar upstairs. And with cocktails this excellent, they might end up staying all

In skyscraper-dense Singapore, rooftop bars are no rarity. But Smoke & Mirrors stands out with its storied location, perched atop an art gallery and former City Hall building. In fact, it was recently named the second-best rooftop bar in the world according to Time Out’s annual ranking of rooftop bars.  A buzzing hotspot for locals and tourists alike, Smoke & Mirrors is most known for its stunning panoramic vistas of the city’s skyline. Roll in during sunset or after dusk to enjoy the glimmering nighttime view of skyscrapers, the Padang, the historic Victoria Concert Hall, and of course, the iconic Marina Bay area in the distance. Pro tip: request seats along the balcony for an undeniably romantic night out. But its cocktail menu doesn’t disappoint as well. The bar’s signature menu is called ‘The Real Art of Drinking’, presenting a roster of cocktails each representing a unique art form, a tribute to the building, or even a painting within the Gallery. Drinks like Dawn of Romance ($32) draw inspiration from San Minn’s Age of Full Bloom painting to create a spirit-forward negroni with butter and sunflower seeds; while Bridge of Glory ($32) pays homage to the iconic City Hall Wing of the Gallery in a unique gin and plum sake concoction. And here’s an artsy tipple that everyone should be well acquainted with: the Round & Round ($30). It’s a nod to the polka dot motif dominant throughout contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama’s oeurve, and the polka dot phenomenon in pop-culture that

This July to October, the Singapore-based tableware brand KRA Sanctuary is collaborating with four acclaimed private dining chefs to host a series of one-time-only dining sessions. You’ll get to taste speciality dishes by chefs who cut their teeth at prominent dining establishments, or who were themselves former restaurateurs, hawker stall owners, or MasterChef Singapore alumni. You’ll also get to connect with the chefs and discover the stories behind each dish, while enjoying artful plating done on KRA Sanctuary’s handcrafted dining ceramics.  The food tour kicks off with Rishi Asora of Part Thai, who will be presenting a multi-course meal ($158 per person) incorporating Thai and Indian influences on July 20. On August 17, Chef Muhammad Imran of A Mano SG will whisk you away to Italy with his signature striped tortellini stuffed with crabmeat and a line-up of other Italian classics ($120 per person). Following Chef Imran, Chef Shen Tan of Ownself Make Chef will showcase familiar flavours and comfort food on September 7, including a cured bacon pizza made from scratch ($99 per person). The final session on October 5 will see MasterChef Singapore alumna and founder of Cutlery Optional, Vasunthara Ramasamy, presenting a South Indian feast with a focus on homemade fermented food ($158 per person).  Find out more about KRA Sanctuary and make your reservations here.

Save the date: Sake Meguri is returning on July 27 this year, bringing over 200 premium sake labels from 18 renowned breweries across Japan, including Kansai, Chubu, and Kanto. These include award-winning sake that have been recognised by the prestigious Singapore Sake Challenge which was held for the first time last year. This one-day-only event will take place at the Singapore Expo, Foyer 1, Level 2, from noon to 5pm.  As part of the event, you’ll also get to meet and interact with experienced sake masters from Japan as they share about the craftsmanship and art behind sake brewing. Sake enthusiasts should be familiar with brands such as Kirishima Shuzo, Choya Umeshu, Hakkaisan Brewery, Kitaya, Nambu Shuzojo, and more which will be featured at the fair. But those who are just starting to dip their toes into the world of sake should not fret, as the sake masters will be glad to recommend a suitable sake pairing based on your preferred flavour profiles.  Find something you fancy at the fair? Make the most of the exclusive ‘Star Buy’ promotions where you’ll be able to score your favourite bottle of sake for up to 60 percent off. Each ticket also entitles you to a surprise goodie bag worth up to $80, featuring premium Riedel glassware, sake, wine, and umeshu bottles, as well as a selection of snacks ideal for pairing with sake.  Tickets are priced at $65 per person, while early bird tickets go at $58. You can also purchase bundles of four and 10 if you’re heading down as a grou

If you’re looking for a reliable spot for business meetings, dates, or family gatherings, The Telegraph by Olivia at Guoco Midtown quite easily fits the bill. The all-day dining venue is fitted with timeless furnishings and a sprawling menu of mains, pasta, antipasti, desserts and beverages, including an all-day breakfast menu. Step in bright and early at dawn for a cuppa served alongside your morning news, come in the afternoon for a spread of brunch classics, and drop by at dusk to see the space transform into an elegant bistro fit for intimate gatherings. A must-order is the coconut braised beef short ribs ($38.80) featuring apricot and raisin pilaf rice, topped with tender beef short rib doused with fragrant coconut curry. Enjoy it with the house peri peri sauce which adds a nice spice that cuts through the decadent gravy. Or have it your way at the pasta section – the selection of nine dishes comes with five pasta types, including mafaldine and fusilli. Pro-tip: several dishes on the menu can also be customised to suit vegan and vegetarian diets – simply ask the friendly servers. The Telegraph also boasts an extensive list of wines, cocktails, beers, spirits, sake, and more – perfect for after-work drinks or a cheeky nightcap.

This café along Stanley Road is bringing good ol’ Australian brunch fare right into the heart of the CBD. Its menu is packed with wholesome fare including healthy bites and superfoods, as well as gluten-free and vegan options. The café’s signature smashed avo ($24) is a staple, and comes with homemade dukkah, poached eggs, feta and pomegranate. And the pastrami sandwich ($24) stuffed with tender and savoury smoked brisket, sautéed onions, pickles, gouda and mustard. Complete your visit to Carrotsticks without a cuppa – the café makes a specialty dark coffee that’s crafted in collaboration with the Australian roastery Allpress Coffee. 

It’s official: Singapore is the city with the most bars named in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 top 50 list, with a whopping 11 establishments making the cut. This comes after a landslide win in last week’s 51-100 placing announcement, where the city also had the greatest number of bars on the list.  The live award ceremony took place last evening in Hong Kong, with a room full of bar industry experts, mixologists and bartenders comprising the standing audience. All eyes were on which establishment would take home the coveted Best Bar in Asia 2024 award.  Here in Singapore, loyal fans of Jigger & Pony were waiting with bated breath to see if it would once again secure its longstanding title of the Best Bar in Singapore. Thankfully, despite dropping one spot from its second-place ranking last year, it still came out at #3 and retained its position as Singapore’s best bar. Jigger & Pony has also been consistently named within the top 10 for the past six years.  Photograph: Jigger & Pony Singapore also saw three new entrants that debuted in the top 50 list – a truly commendable feat. They are: the 1940s-inspired Night Hawk (#16), the music-centred bar Offtrack (#25), and the trailblazing sustainable cocktail bar Fura (#42). Fura also took home the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award 2024 in recognition of its innovative use of planet-friendly ingredients. More wins to celebrate include bar industry stalwart Nutmeg & Clove (#6) placing comfortably within the top 10, as well as other bars

Ask any Singaporean what their favourite food is, and we’re pretty sure Japanese ramen will come up as one of the top contenders. From Keisuke to Ippudo and Sanpoutei to Marutama, Singaporeans know their ramen brands like the back of their hand. Come July 20, a new player is entering the competition. Mensho Tokyo, an acclaimed ramen restaurant which has won numerous awards like Tokyo Ramen of the Year and the Ramen Walker Grand Prix, will be opening its doors at Raffles City. This will be its first outlet in Singapore. The chain currently has 17 stores internationally in locations like Melbourne and New Delhi, and its San Francisco outlet is even listed in the prestigious Michelin Guide. Tomoharu Shono is the man behind the success of Mensho Tokyo. The ramen maestro lives and breathes ramen, and allegedly even has ramen for every meal. Since 2005, Mensho Tokyo has been dishing out bowls of delicious ramen guided by Chef Shono’s belief in achieving a balance of the five main components in ramen – sauce (tare), soup, noodles, oil, and toppings. Photograph: Mensho Tokyo This principle trickles down to the ingredients used. Mensho ramen noodles are made exclusively from whole wheat flour, which has four times the amount of fibre compared to other types of flour, and is more nutritious and aromatic. The brand also uses Donko Shiitake mushrooms in its broth for a deeper, more complex flavour, as well as a special type of shoyu – Kioke Shikomi Shoyu – that’s brewed in cedarwood va

It’s well known by now that Singaporeans go mad for matcha, and cafés and stores islandwide have ridden the wave to offer everything from matcha-themed afternoon tea sets, to matcha mochi doughnuts, and matcha drinks.   This month, the popular doughnut chain Krispy Kreme is introducing six exclusive matcha doughnuts ($3.60 each) and three matcha latte flavours ($6.90 each). These are created in partnership with Masata Yamamoto, CEO of the specialty matcha brand 108 Matcha Saro from Asahikawa, Hokkaido. Photograph: Krispy Kreme / Instagram The six exclusive doughnuts incorporate premium Uji matcha powder and hojicha imported from Japan. From now till July 20, you can grab the Enchanted Matcha Choco, Dreamy Hojicha, and Matcha Wonder doughnuts at all Krispy Kreme outlets, while other flavours like the Matcha Glow, Hojicha Biscoff, and Matcha Snow will be available from July 21 to August 3. Meanwhile, the three matcha latte beverages come in flavours like the Strawberrie Matcha Swirl with strawberry puree, Matchago which blends matcha and mango, and Matcha Choco for a rich, chocolatey combination. These will only be available at Krispy Kreme’s Suntec City outlet.  Find out more about the limited-time Krispy Kreme matcha series here.  READ MORE: 6 gorgeous libraries in Singapore for quiet work and study timeCartier celebrates 100th anniversary of collection ‘Trinity’ with an experiential pop-up at The Arts House SingaporeSingapore Design Week returns with 11-day event and over

National Museum of Singapore has announced that its beloved Story of the Forest exhibition will be closing on October 13 this year. The digital installation has been running for eight years at the museum’s Glass Rotunda, and has become a favourite among museum-goers for its stunning visual projections of flora and fauna.  In an Instagram post by the museum last week, it informed visitors of the exhibition’s last day, adding that it was a favourite “healing spot” for many: View this post on Instagram A post shared by National Museum of Singapore (@natmuseum_sg) Story of the Forest was opened to the public on December 10 2016, and drew in huge crowds when it first launched. The larger-than-life installation was the result of a two-year collaboration between the museum and the internationally renowned Japanese digital art collective teamLab. Photograph: National Museum of Singapore The inspiration for the projections stemmed from the museum’s treasured William Farquhar Collection of National History Drawings, which includes sketches of the flora and fauna of Malaya in the 19th century. 69 of these drawings were then brought to life in animations, allowing viewers to interact with beautiful landscapes and wildlife from times past – making it a popular attraction for families with young children, or even couples looking for a romantic date idea. There’s even an open area where visitors can lie down to admire the projections for a moment of respite. Photog

What would Gardens By The Bay’s Supertrees or Raffles Hotel look like as cocktails? The spirits brand Bombay Sapphire issued a fun challenge to several top bartenders in Singapore this year. Their task? Create a drink inspired by one of Singapore’s famous landmarks. The drinks were then photographed by F&B photographer Wei Ping and presented alongside visuals of the landmarks captured by urban photographer Lee Yik Keat. Photograph: Lee Yik Keat, Tan Wei Ping This is all part of Bombay Sapphire’s ‘Saw This Made This’ campaign, which encourages creativity and an appreciation for the things that surround us daily, including our built environment. Running with this vision are eight bartenders from celebrated bars The Elephant Room, Analogue Initiative, Sago House, Stay Gold Flamingo, Writers Bar, Employees Only, Nutmeg & Clove, and ATLAS.  From the modern Indian cocktail bar The Elephant Room, bartender Jimmy Kok delivers a stunning reimagination of the ArtScience Museum in the gin-based tipple Flowing Still. The drink captures all the salient architectural elements of the museum, including its ten sculptural extensions and the tranquil lotus pond surrounding the building.     Photograph: Lee Yik Keat, Tan Wei Ping Sustainable drinking hole Analogue Initiative presents a regal deep purple cocktail reminiscent of the towering supertrees in Gardens By The Bay, complete with an intricate lattice sheet and floral elements. Another interesting concoction is The 1979, a vibrant, no

Singapore’s dining scene is about to be shaken up, following the news that up to 16 species of insects may be approved for sale as food as early as next month. These include crickets, silkworms, grasshoppers and more which can act as alternative proteins to substitute real meat. Soon, you might be able to find these critters in foods like pastries, fried rice, and even sushi. This approval process has been a rather lengthy one in the making, starting with the Singapore Food Agency’s (SFA) public consultation on safety concerns on insect products in late 2022, followed by their statement that these insects would be approved for consumption in the second half of 2023.  Photograph: Altimate Nutrition / Instagram When the news originally broke out, it was naturally met with cynicism and even nausea for some folks. But there’s a good reason why incorporating insects into food has been a hot topic lately.  We spoke to Christopher Leow, co-founder of the local cricket farm Future Protein Solutions, last year. And according to him, insects like crickets are superfoods. “They have more calcium than milk, iron than cows, omega-6 than salmon. Also, the extra high protein content at 76 percent (when extracted in powder form) positions them as an attractive product.” Photograph: Daniel IskandarChris Leow feeding crickets   With concerns about the sustainability of conventional poultry and cattle farming, farming insects is an environmentally friendly alternative. They require much les

Fourth of July – or America’s Independence Day – might be a foreign concept here in Singapore, but that won’t stop these All-American eateries from bringing the ‘party in the USA’ to our backyards. From July 1 to 31, you’ll be able to savour American classics as part of special menus that these establishments will be offering all month long.  Crafted by Peter Zwiener will be transporting customers back to the 50s with its decor reminiscent of a retro American diner. The limited-time menu focuses on the art of dry-ageing – dig in to juicy dry-aged BLT burgers ($22) made with 100% USDA prime angus beef; indulgent dry-aged ribeye cubes ($25) sprinkled with lime kosher salt; and a show-stopping dry-aged boneless ribeye steak ($58) served with roasted potatoes and chimichurri.   Photograph: Crafted by Peter Zwiener   Meanwhile, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse will be slinging out the All-American Feast Platter ($74). Treat this like an ultimate Superbowl snack spread – it includes must-haves like beef cheek tacos, burger sliders, lobster roll, and chilli con carne tortilla chips. They come paired with a side of refreshing appleslaw and two mugs of their draught beer specials – the Brooklyn IPA or Pilsner. Haven’t worked up that much of an appetite? You can also order items in the platter as individual portions, whether it’s classic burger sliders ($18) you’re after, or if you just want to feast on a solid serving of lobster roll ($42) stuffed with chunks of Boston lobster. Whether you’re

Grab your post-work pint at the largest beer festival in Asia next month, happening right here in Singapore. From July 11 to 14, Beerfest Asia 2024 will be taking over the Kallang Outdoor Arena and transforming it into a boozy playground for beer lovers.  This year’s festival rides on the tailwinds of Beerfest 2023, which marked the event’s comeback after a three-year hiatus. Now in its 14th edition, the festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. Expect the largest international showcase of brews the festival has offered to date, accompanied by a stacked line-up of entertainment acts, plus gourmet festival grub to boot. Photograph: Jiggy / Instagram In the booze department, you’ll be greeted with over 600 award-winning and unique brews from all around the world, represented by more than 100 booths. Among these are 160 brews that will also be debuting in Singapore, including Chang Beer’s Chang Espresso and Conor McGregor’s Forged Irish Stout. And complete the experience with quality nosh that make for great pairings with beer – think tacos, burgers, chips and salsa, mid wings, onion rings and much more. Taking on a cyberpunk-inspired theme, Beerfest 2024 will be set in a vibrant, neon-lit wonderland with futuristic elements at every corner. Rock out to a line-up of over 30 music acts by international and local bands, electrifying EDM tunes, Singapore’s top underground DJs and more. We’re talking tributes to legendary bands like ABBA, AC/DC, Pink Floyd, The Beatles,

Michelin has been keeping us on our toes all month, with steady anticipation building up for today’s reveal of the full list of Michelin-starred restaurants for 2024. Ahead of this morning’s announcement, the guidebook also released its Bib Gourmand 2024 selection last week as a small teaser – this saw 11 hawker stalls and restaurants added to the Bib Gourmand line-up.  This year marks the eighth edition of Michelin Guide Singapore, and our little red dot put up an impressive showing yet again, with one restaurant bumped up to two Michelin star status, four restaurants newly awarded one Michelin star, and Singapore’s second Michelin Green Star given out to recognise a restaurant’s commitment to sustainability.  Climbing the Michelin ladder this year is Meta by Busan-born chef Sun Kim. The now two-Michelin-star establishment spotlights premium ingredients native to Korea in a dynamic kitchen-restaurant space with a chef’s table feel. Photograph: Araya Joining the list of one-Michelin-star joints, we have the Chilean-Japanese restaurant Araya; Chaleur with its luxurious 10-course French-Japanese dinner menu; the classy waterfront Italian restaurant Matera; and Singaporean chef-owner Malcolm Lee’s Pangium, which focuses on Peranakan heritage dishes.  And bagging the Michelin Green Star award this year is Contemporary Southeast Asian restaurant Fiz. The restaurant joins Seroja – Singapore’s first Green Star awardee – to be the only two dining establishments on the island recogn

If Dionysus were to open a wine bar in the 21st century, this would be it. Clad in vibrant hues of magenta, luxurious patterned upholstery, and vintage accents all over, Big Wine Freaks screams intoxication with a side of sophistication. Opening its doors this June, the champagne and wine bar is the latest addition to Singapore's growing list of wine joints, and it might just be the new trendiest spot in town for oenophiles and gastronomes alike.  The extensive and progressive wine menu sets out to impress – we’re talking 500 labels and 2000 bottles housed in the bar’s wine cellar. Each bottle is sourced from micro-farms that champion sustainable farming practices. And instead of sticking to familiar names, the finest Champagnes and Burgundies are selected from a new generation of wine producers. Natural wine enthusiasts will also take delight in the diverse selection of organic wines from the French regions of Jura, Beaujolais and Loire, as well as those from vineyards in Spain, Austria and Italy.  Photograph: Big Wine Freaks As far as the saying “eat, drink, and be merry” goes, good wine is only great when paired with delicious food. Chef de Cuisine Ash who hails from glitzy F&B establishments like Sago House and Burnt Ends takes care of the menu here, with a series of sharing dishes heavily focused on raw seafood. A buzzing open kitchen also melts seamlessly into the dining space, allowing diners to get in on all the action. Diners can look forward to plates of Japanese

The 2024 edition of the La Liste Pastry Special Awards concluded two days ago in Paris, France, crowning 25 winners over 20 pastry award categories. Organized by one of the leading guides for modern gastronomy – La Liste – the Pastry Special Awards recognize exceptional pastry chefs from around the world who have honed their craft and stayed committed to values ​​like seasonality and biodiversity.  This year's winners hail from 14 countries, including California, Lima, Budapest, Pakistan, Melbourne, and more. Among the awardees is Singaporean pastry chef Janice Wong, who clinched the Pastry Innovation Award along with the Miami-based chef Antonio Bachour. She is the first Singaporean to bag the award.  Photograph: Janice Wong Singapore / Facebook Other award categories in the Pastry Special Awards include the World's Best Pastry Shop which went to Le Ritz Comptoir in Paris, the World's Best Afternoon Tea which was awarded to Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, and the World's Most Creative Pastry Chef which saw Bastian Blanc- Tailleur wins the prize for his spectacular wedding cakes.  Wong was praised for her boundary-pushing desserts, particularly her innovative takes on chocolate and pastry. She was also noted for her role in creating unique and immersive experiences for concept stores in Asia and beyond. Most will know her as the founder of the trendy 2am:dessertbar in Holland Village which also has a Sydney offshoot at the ritzy W Hotel Sydney. But apart from the 2am brand, Wo

Handicraft label Bynd Artisan will be teaming up with Patisserie Woo for the next chapter of its experience store at ION Orchard. The patisserie will be taking over the space that the ice cream brand Sunday Folks used to occupy, marking the end of a three-year collaboration between Bynd Artisan and Sunday Folks. The space was unveiled in 2021 to create a unique lifestyle destination where visitors can appreciate the art of craft and craftsmanship in a relaxing environment. This new collaboration between Bynd Artisan and Patisserie Woo similarly brings together two homegrown labels dedicated to crafts and desserts respectively.   Photograph: Bynd Artisan Most will know Bynd Artisan for its signature customisable leather-bound notebooks that are great for gifting. The brand also produces a line of small leather accessories and personalised items. At the ION store, visitors can expect a curated selection of eco-friendly lifestyle products and items by reBynd – an eco-conscious brand under Bynd Artisan – on top of the usual products.  Photograph: Bynd Artisan Patrons will also be able to enjoy delectable pastries dreamt up by Le Cordon Bleu-trained patissier Melissa Woo. Formerly a banker, Woo set up her patisserie in 2019 and shortly after opened her first dine-in outlet at Guthrie House. Her pastries are inspired by her travels, crafted with ingredients from Japan and Belgium, and adorned with edible flowers. At the ION store, visitors can enjoy Woo’s seasonal gelato parfai