Adira Chow

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.   

Gone are the days when cafés mostly offered the same eggs benny or tired rainbow cakes. Singapore’s café scene today is bursting with creativity, character, and caffeine-fulled ambition. Whether you’re after a quiet café for remote work, an aesthetic brunch spot for the ‘gram, or an under-the-radar coffee hideout, this city delivers, and more.  This guide isn’t just for the coffee snobs (though we love you, too). It’s for anyone who loves discovering great food, thoughtful design, warm service, maybe even a surprise or two – like a latte made with cereal milk or excellent sourdoughs right beside a lake in Yishun. From minimalist nooks in the heartlands to buzzing bakeries in the city, these 50 cafés have all been handpicked by our editors and contributors, and are places we’d happily revisit any day of the week.  We’ve included everything from enduring favourites and cult-status cornerstones, to low-key gems you’ll wish you found out about sooner. And if you’re after a more specific vibe – say, pet-friendly spots or dessert-first cafés, we’ve got separate guides for those too. November 2025: This list has been updated with new favourites like Dearborn and Pralet, as well as well-deserved inclusions like Elijah Pies and Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee, while bidding farewell to a few that have shuttered or slipped in standards.  Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants. Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enj

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. November 2025: New names to know include Hup San Social Club, a Club Street hideaway where Korean flavours meet creative cocktails and Bar Somma, which has one of Singapore’s best dirty martinis (with free tripe paninis, no less). Old favourites like Jigger & Pony and Native continue to prove their staying power, while Side Door, Offtrack and Fura keep things fresh, fun and future-facing. Now go forth and drink. For more bar recommendations, check out these wine bars stocked with quality vino, speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors, whisky dens, craft beer breweries and many more.  Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants.

Say goodbye to October’s spooky thrills because the November is finally here – and it's an arty one. All sorts of creative events take over this month, with blockbuster festivals like Singapore Biennale, Singapore Writers Festival and Southeast Asia's largest French Impressionist exhibition unfolding citywide. There's tons of shopping and tunes too, with Green-House and Boutiques Fair alongside major concerts (Blackpink, Teddy Swims) and more intimate live music events. So much to check out, so little time – get started by scrolling down for all the best stuff to slot in your schedule.   RECOMMENDED: The definitive guide on things to do in Singapore    

Singapore’s dining scene moves at breakneck speed – some 300 or so new restaurants open each month. That’s nearly 10 a day. Let that sink in for a bit. Even for a city that’s already one of the world’s best for food, that number is still on all accounts, quite staggering.  With so many new spots popping up, we’re on a mission to track down the tastiest, most innovative, and value-for-money spots in town. Whether it’s your favourite chef making waves with a fresh concept, or a new but undiscovered restaurant that deserves some time in the spotlight, our nifty list has got it all. Without further ado, here are the best new restaurants in Singapore to visit this year – all tried, tested, and approved by the Time Out team. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try  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.

Singapore may be known as one of the most expensive cities to live in, and the recent GST hike doesn't make it much better. But we're here to prove that it's possible to dine on a dime yet enjoy a satisfying meal — if you know where to look. We're letting you in on some affordable finds in our city, apart from our trusty hawker centres that never fail to serve up delicious nosh for cheap. These places whip up solid meals for around $10 and under, whether it's a quality burger you're craving, traditional Thai fare, or a scrumptious banh mi that's sure to leave you stuffed. Here's helping you spend less on lunch so you can splurge on the things that matter. RECOMMENDED: The best hawker centres in Singapore and The best healthy bowls in Singapore under $15 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.

Great fish and chips are surprisingly hard to come by in Singapore, even with our love for deep-fried food and snacking on fries – we mean chips, sorry. The quintessential British dish is typically enjoyed in takeaway form, wrapped in yesterday's papers. But unlike in the UK, we don't really have casual chippy shops located around the block. And though battered white fish, thick-cut chips and maybe a side of mushy peas seem simple enough to whip up at home, getting it spot-on is a whole other story. Thankfully, we've got several treasured eateries that serve the English classic, dotted all across the island. These range from specialty joints focusing on mastering the perfect beer-battered crust, to all-rounder bistros that offer British comfort food, and even the occasional Irish pub where quiz nights, sports streamings, live music and pints of Guinness abound. Here are the best places in Singapore to dig into a plate of fish and chips.  October 2025: We've added a few new entries like Carnaby and Nosh Bistro, and bumped up favourites like Lad & Co and Molly Malone's. RECOMMENDED: The best seafood restaurants in Singapore and The 50 best bars in Singapore

Grilled meats, salads, flatbreads, spices, hummus, grains and legumes. These are quintessential elements of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. And while it's often hard to distinguish where one ends and the other begins, we can all concur that you can't ever go wrong with either. If you're craving the vibrancy and textures that these cuisines have to offer, here's our guide on where to dine for outstanding Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best Peruvian restaurants in Singapore and The best Greek restaurants 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

Brunch has earned its place as a weekend ritual we all look forward to. There’s nothing quite like clocking in a few more hours of sleep and then waking up to enjoy a leisurely meal that combines the best of breakfast and lunch. Whether you’re craving classic eggs on toast, indulgent ricotta pancakes, a gourmet sandwich, or a vibrant plant-based bowl, our diverse brunch scene has something to satisfy every craving and diet.  What makes brunch in Singapore so special? It’s the way local and international influences find themselves blended effortlessly into menus, and how there are tons of options depending on the occasion – from elegant restaurants in the city to casual neighbourhood digs. In this list, we’ve narrowed down some of our favourites, including recent haunts and places we’ve been loyal fans of for years. Expect freshly baked goods, solid coffee, and dishes that go beyond the ordinary.  RECOMMENDED: The 50 best cafés in Singapore and The best brunch buffets 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.

Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 falls on October 6, and with it comes a glowing celebration of lanterns, full moons and of course, indulgent mooncakes. Across Singapore, hotels, bakeries and restaurants are rolling out their most exquisite mooncake collections yet, blending classic flavours like lotus paste and egg yolk with interesting ones like chendol, yuzu and more. Whether you're buying a box of traditional baked mooncakes for family celebrations or sending over a luxe snowskin set to a client, this year's selection won't disappoint. We've done all the tasting and rounded up the best mooncakes in Singapore for 2025, so you can skip the guesswork and get straight to the good stuff.  RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore and The best things to do in Singapore this month  

Orchard Road isn’t just about retail therapy and five-star hotels, it’s also home to some of Singapore’s most stylish and inventive drinking dens. Whether you’re craving a perfectly stirred martini, an avant-garde cocktail inspired by Japanese flavours, or a speakeasy experience tucked discreetly behind sliding doors, you’ll find it all along Singapore’s most famous shopping belt. Many of the city’s top hotels house destination bars that rival the best in the world, and you’ll also find indie concepts pushing boundaries with bold ideas and eccentric charm. This guide highlights the places worth dressing up for, from sleek hotel bars dripping with old-world glamour to cosy Japanese-inspired hideaways where omotenashi is at the heart of every pour. And if you’re looking for a slightly more relaxed evening, you’re just a short stroll or cab ride away from New Bahru in River Valley – a buzzing lifestyle enclave where natural wines, craft cocktails, and quirky concepts are the order of the night. Updated August 2025: Orchard’s drinking scene keeps evolving. This month, we’ve spotlighted a mix of stalwart institutions like Manhattan and Origin Bar alongside new-wave favourites at New Bahru. Whether you’re after barrel-aged classics, manga-inspired highballs, or immersive theatrical drinking, Orchard offers more than enough to keep your nights out exciting. Find out how we curate and review at Time Out

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.

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. 

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.

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 towering floor-to-ceiling windows, the majestic chandelier, the sprawling dining room. You might’ve already guessed where I am: the iconic dining hall on the ground floor of The St. Regis. Once home to The Astor Grill, a New York-inspired steakhouse, this space in the luxury hotel now houses Sophia, a modern Italian restaurant.  Apart from the furnishings, which were once velvety red and regal, but are now contemporary with light blue tones, the layout hasn’t changed much. You still get that magnificent glasshouse effect in the day, where natural light streams in through the windows. The seating is comfortably spread out, and there are even semi-private ‘booths’ slightly elevated and set apart from the main dining area. Photograph: Sophia Chef de Cuisine Angelo Sergio has been with the restaurant since its early days as Brasserie Les Saveurs, before it became The Astor Grill, and he remains at the helm of Sophia. Despite his Puglian heritage, he brings a wealth of knowledge from all over Italy, which explains why the menu draws influences from 11 regions across the country.  In true Italian fashion, complimentary bread arrives first, paired with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, though our server is a little heavy-handed with the latter. I follow that with a simple, hearty grilled cauliflower soup ($22), which I’m told is quite popular with guests. The grilled octopus ($32) on the menu also catches my attention, and it arrives elegantly plated, well-charred a

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:38dd33be-9f18-40dc-8fda-b5a64227700b-0" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> As November rolls in, Singapore's dining scene is kicking into high gear, with a slew of exciting restaurant openings prepared to take reservations for the festive season. It's also the perfect time to catch up with friends one last time before everyone scurries off on their year-end holidays. This month's new restaurants span the globe, from a homegrown private dining success turned full-fledged Southeast Asian grill, to the first international outpost of an acclaimed Fujian restaurant from Suzhou, China. Italian cuisine gets two exciting interpretations this month – one modern and elegant at The St. Regis Singapore, and the other celebrity chef-backed and sustainability-focused at Sentosa. Meanwhile, Turkish food lovers can look forward to authentic dishes and vibrant street eats beyond the usual döner kebab, at a buzzy new restaurant along Beach Road. Here's where to eat next this month.  Explore Singapore’s 2025 restaurant openings by month: 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 restau

The results for the Top 500 Bars 2025 ranking are out, and Singapore has plenty to celebrate. The list, unveiled recently during a glitzy ceremony at Florence's Palazzo Borghese, crowns Panda & Sons in Edinburgh as the most influential bar in the world. The Scottish speakeasy edges out Paradiso in Barcelona and Bar Leone in Hong Kong – second and third on the list, respectively.  Unlike guides like Asia's 50 Best Bars and the World's 50 Best Bars, which use a jury or panel of votes, the ranking for the Top 500 Bars is built from big data. The organisers analyse thousands of online sources across more than 20 languages, including reviews, expert articles and social media. The result is meant to reflect real global influence rather than just industry opinion. It also explains why the list surfaces rising cities, like Medellin, Montevideo and Pune this year, and unexpected, lesser-known bars. Photograph: EK YapAtlas Bar Interior Singapore is one of the strongest Asian cities on the list, with three bars all making it within the 1 to 100 range. Unsurprisingly, Jigger & Pony – No. 9 on the World's 50 Best Bars 2025 and No. 3 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 – leads the pack at the fifth spot. Meanwhile, the Art Deco-inspired Atlas at Parkview Square lands at No. 38, and continues to impress many with its encyclopaedic gin selection. Cat Bite Club comes in next at No. 83. This casual hideout in Duxton has a distinct agave-focused cocktail menu, and it's clearly a hit both in Si

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; while the average hotel r

Finding a $10 meal in Marina Bay Sands can prove quite the challenge – the mall is packed with high-end restaurants and celebrity chef establishments after all. Rasapura Masters, the food court at Basement 2, has always been MBS' answer to that. It's been around since the mall's opening in 2010, offering a curation of local hawker favourites, from chicken rice to fishball noodles, at relatively affordable prices.  And this month, the food court has gotten an upgrade, now sporting a new 'Garden City-inspired' look, with kinetic lights, ripple ceiling accents, and a large LED screen projecting the sights and sounds of the adjacent Gardens by the Bay. More excitingly, though, are the new food options that come along with this revamp, including five Michelin-recognised stalls.  You'll spot familiar names Da Shi Jia Big Prawn Mee from Killiney Rd – a Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee known for its hearty prawn noodle soups and fried prawn bee hoon – and also JC Seafood by Jiao Cai seafood. This is the first time both brands will appear in a food court setting. Diners can also feast on fish head curry by the Michelin Bib Gourmand Nana Curry; Thali meals and biryani by Indian Express, run by former Michelin-starred restaurant Song of India; as well as the iconic Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang from Yishun Park Hawker Centre. Apart from Michelin eats, other options at the refreshed food court include crowd faves like Pepper Lunch Express, Nine Fresh for Taiwanese desserts and R&B Tea for bubble

We might be fresh off our Time Out Recommends 2025 café round-up, but that isn't stopping us from exploring the city for new finds. This round, we've shortlisted five recently-opened cafés in Singapore, including a cosy Korean nook in Scape serving up coffee cocktails, and a spacious Japandi-style hideaway in the heart of Jurong. Add those to a fuss-free bakery in Joo Chiat with authentic French viennoiseries, a shokupan and matcha-obsessed café in Telok Ayer, and a work-friendly spot in Chinatown, and you've now got five distinct spots to add to your weekly rotation. Here are five new cafés in Singapore worth checking out right now. 1. Hanco Coffee Photograph: Hanco Coffee / Instagram Specialty coffee and cheesecakes go hand in hand at this gorgeous new café in the recently revamped Scape. Located right beside froyo joint Yoajang – another Korean brand – Hanco looks like it's plucked straight out of Seoul as well, with light wooden furniture, on-point aesthetics and photo-worthy spots at every corner. The café serves a regular line-up of espresso-based coffee, but the highlight here is the specialty coffee or coffee cocktails. These colourful creations will set you back around $12 per drink, and come in wacky and wonderful flavours, from mango sticky rice to miso soup and onigiri. The dirty coffee series, which features hot espresso over cold milk, is especially popular. And while the bestselling rice dirty has recently been swapped out for brown rice tea, there are still

There are only two Japanese restaurants in Singapore with two Michelin stars, and the eponymous Sushi Sakuta by Chef Yoshio Sakuta is one of them. The other, of course, is Shoukouwa, which he isn't a stranger to, having stood behind the counter himself before opening Sushi Sakuta.  Officially reopening this month at Millenia Walk, this new space marks the next chapter for Chef Sakuta, who earned his second star just months earlier. The new 16-seater, with ten counter seats and six in a private room, feels like a quiet sanctuary, with a pale hinoki wood counter as the centrepiece, soft light filtering through shoji screens, and a rotation of Japanese artworks adorning the space. Photograph: Sushi Sakuta | Chef Yoshio Sakuta The experience Photograph: Time Out Singapore I'm here for the $500 dinner omakase menu, a 17-course sequence that unravels at a comfortable pace, with plenty of breathing space to anticipate the next bite, but not too much that it dulls the experience. The meal begins with chawanmushi crowned with delicate chunks of female snow crab, briny and bursting with roe. The dish is paired with the first of several thoughtful pours: a smooth and mellow Nichi Nichi sake, which gently frames the sweetness of the crab and the faint white soy sauce tang from the following course of pine flounder.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore As the meal unfolds, I'm treated to tender morsels of lightly simmered kinki fish, sitting atop a base of yuzu vinegar and served with yu

This vibrant tapas bar stands out among the slew of cafés, banh mi joints and fitness studios littered along Joo Chiat Road. Carlitos is the brainchild of chefs Carlos Montobbio of Spanish restaurant Esquina, and Antonio Miscellaneo, who runs popular pizza concepts like Casa Vostra and La Bottega Enoteca, which is just two doors down. The highlight? Over 30 kinds of tapas plucked from all over Spain, including essentials like patatas bravas and octopus with paprika.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore | Pintxos, Gambas Inside, brick walls, unique trinkets, and soft lighting exude the warmth and comfort of a Catalan country home, fitting for a cosy neighbourhood spot like this. And the menu is made for long nights of winding down. Start simple with a gilda pintxo ($5 each), a quintessential Spanish skewer consisting of anchovies, olives, pickled onions and jalepeño. Then, snack on plates of gambas al ajillo ($6 each), refreshing tomato and tuna salad ($10), Jamón croquettes ($7 each) and crispy baby squid over a bed of shallot orzo ($20) – a crowd-favourite here. Or, sink your teeth into a crunchy molette (mini toasted flatbread sandwich). Our pick is the Sobrassada ($10), layered with Mallorcan paprika pork sausage, burrata and capers. Photograph: Time Out Singapore | Tomato salad, Jamón croquettes The plates hit the table fast, and before you know it, you're surrounded by a colourful spread. It's exactly the kind of energy you'd find at a tapas bar in a back alley in Barcelo

Udon Shin, the popular noodle house from Japan with hour-long queues, is finally open in Singapore. This is its first international outlet outside of Japan, and it has picked a pretty central location for its Singapore store, right in the heart of Orchard Road at Takashimaya. For those unfamiliar, Udon Shin opened in 2011 in Shibuya, Tokyo, specialising in freshly made udon noodles served either hot or chilled. With only 12 seats, the space gets incredibly packed and can see queues of up to three hours. Good news for us in Singapore, because the restaurant will be able to seat 60 people, though expect it to be a bit of a squeeze. There are several counter seats for solo diners and pairs, a larger sharing table in the centre, and a couple of tables for bigger groups.  Photograph: Udon Shin The joint is known for its "Four Fresh" philosophy, taking pride in noodles that are freshly kneaded, cut, and boiled, as well as freshly fried tempura. Noodles are made in-house each morning to achieve their distinct slippery, chewy texture, and the mark of a perfect strand of udon if it has a good balance between koshi (firmness) and nobi (stretchiness). The Singapore menu will feature some of Udon Shin's signature hot, cold and soup udon, as well as tempura.  What we tried Carbonara udon (9/10) Photograph: Time Out Singapore Udon Shin's signature dish ($24). This bowl of dry udon is what attracts long queues to its store in Tokyo. The dish features kamaage udon cooked in dashi and top

Getting a reservation at Hong Kong's Bar Leone is proving near impossible these days, especially after it's been crowned the winner of Asia's 50 Best Bars and the World's 50 Best Bars this year. For those of us in Singapore, we're in luck, as the bar will be in Singapore this month for a one-night-only takeover at Bar Somma in New Bahru.  From 6pm till late on November 30, you'll catch Bar Leone's team behind the counter at Bar Somma, shaking up four exclusive cocktails ($24 each) inspired by the vibrant spirit of Rome's neighbourhoods. Pours include the King Kong Old Fashioned with toasted coconut, banana and almonds; the Olive Oil Sour, which combines Wild Turkey rye, extra virgin olive oil and egg white; the smoky and citrusy Margarita de Maíz; and Il Cacciatore, a herbaceous blend of gin with tomato, basil and black pepper.  Bar Somma's signature drinks and pasta dishes will also be available that evening. This event is hosted in collaboration with Campari and is part of Bar Somma's ever-growing Guest List series, which has welcomed other bars from around the world, including Penrose from Kuala Lumpur, Maybe Sammy from Sydney, and Bar Outrigger from Goa, among others.  Book here.  READ MORE: This cinematic cocktail bar in Singapore just updated its menu – here's why you need to try it A new grocer-dining concept just opened in Dempsey, and it's even got Erewhon-inspired smoothies I had dinner in an old school library turned Italian restaurant in Singapore, and it was pret

There's something quite spellbinding about walking into Somma at New Bahru. The restaurant sits in what was once the Nan Chiau Girls High school library, now transformed into a modern Italian dining room that feels both like a living space and an art gallery. Apart from the team's cheery welcome as I walk in, the atmosphere is otherwise hush and somewhat meditative. Custom florals by botanical studio This Humid House adorn the space, reflective of the current season's menu. And this month, Somma presents Vendemmia (Italian for 'grape harvest'), as a love letter to Autumn.  Photograph: Lisa Cohen Photography Somma is the brainchild of Puglian chef Mirko Febbrile, whose time at one-Michelin-starred Braci cemented his reputation in the scene. He's also known for the breezy Italian bistro Fico at East Coast Park, and now, Somma, also a joint project with the Lo & Behold Group. Unlike the more casual Fico, Somma dives deep into storytelling and highly conceptual, produce-driven dishes. That said, the food might look contemporary, but it has comfort at its core – something personally important to Chef Mirko, who grew up on many of the dishes that inspired this new menu.  My six-course dinner ($268 per person) begins humbly at the restaurant's entrance, with a steaming cup of mushroom soup to warm the belly. The broth has a complex depth achieved by blending eight varieties of mushrooms, with some even grown locally, like the bodhi mushrooms from East Coast Park and old-man mushro

There's a new reason to visit Dempsey Hill, and this one might just give Huber's Butchery a run for its money. Curly's, the latest concept by the folks at Ebb & Flow Group (the same people who brought you Chin Mee Chin Confectionery and Casa Vostra), is an upmarket grocer, bakery and restaurant all in one. It's not the first of its kind in Singapore, but it brings special touches like smoothies inspired by the viral Los Angeles market Erewhon, and a well-tended garden at the back, which supplies ingredients to its bistro. Here's everything to expect at this new 8000 square foot compound. Curly's Market Photograph: Time Out Singapore The heart of Curly's, Curly's Market, brings in some of the freshest produce, with over 90 percent of the curation certified as organic. At launch, the shelves are stocked with fresh tomatoes, leafy greens, cucumbers, long beans and eggplants, all grown in the brand's partner farm in Brunei. And in the coming days, the grocer is expected to receive batches of turmeric, avocados and more. Other pantry items are sourced from small, independent producers from Japan, Australia and other regions.  From Asia, you'll find Kampot pepper from Cambodia by La Plantation, Kajiya beef from Tanegashima, Japan, as well as dairy products and organic tea from Jeju, South Korea. And beyond Asia, the market also spotlights goods like Italian bean-to-bar chocolates by Amedei, Moroccan amlou spreads by Taje, sustainably harvested pipis from Australia and more.  Pho