Adira Chow

You’ve probably heard the unmistakable roar of fighter jets and low thrum of helicopters lately – yep, National Day is right around the corner. On August 9, Singapore turns the big 6-0, and the skies will once again light up with firework displays to mark the occasion. Whether you’re in it for the patriotic vibes or just looking for an excuse to feast with friends, the city has plenty of spots ideal for the occasion. We’ve picked out several restaurants and bars across the island to consider making a reservation at this National Day. Some are offering specially curated set menus, others free-flow booze, but most importantly, they all come with great views of the annual fireworks show. So if you haven’t locked in your plans yet, don’t fret – here’s where to eat, drink and catch the fireworks in style this National Day. RECOMMENDED: Guide to National Day in Singapore and The best places to catch the National Day Parade fireworks for free

Another week, another stacked line-up of things to do in Singapore – because this city never hits snooze. From world-class football clashes between Arsenal, AC Milan and Newcastle United at the National Stadium to a long-awaited headline show by genre-defying maestro James Blake, your schedule's about to get very full, very fast. Also on the radar: whimsical art exhibitions, a sizzling beach barbecue bash, and the highly anticipitated opening of Singapore Oceanarium. Whether you're planning a hot date, a wholesome family outing, or just something new to do with the group chat crew, we’ve got ideas to keep you entertained all week long. RECOMMENDED: The 101 best things to do in Singapore and New attractions in Singapore in 2025

As we know all too well, not everything that tastes good is good for you. Thankfully, healthy eating in Singapore is no longer just about sad salads and dry chicken breast. Singapore offers plenty of wholesome eateries that serve up everything from vibrant grain bowls to flavour-packed dishes that dial back on the nasties. If you're after a clean post-workout refuel or a mindful midday meal, these are the places that you need to be adding to your 'saved' tab. In this carefully curated list, we've included CBD favourites like The Daily Cut and Grain Traders as well as breezy brunch spots like Carrotsticks and Cravings and The Butcher's Wife which carry tons of gluten-free options.  July 2025: Since our last update, we've made a few reshuffles to reflect Singapore's ever-evolving healthy dining scene. We also say goodbye to several old favourites which have since shuttered – spots like Aloha Poké and Bamboo Bowls.  RECOMMENDED: The best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Singapore and The best vegetarian local food 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.

Chinese cuisine in Singapore is rooted in centuries of tradition and shaped by local tastes, regional dialects, and global techniques. Whether it’s a sumptuous Cantonese feast at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a heritage Hakka meal in a family-run eatery, there’s a depth of flavour and cultural history to be found in every bowl and bite. We’ve handpicked these spots for their consistency, creativity, and commitment to tradition, with menus that span refined creations to deeply comforting classics. Expect seafood-rich claypot stews, expertly roasted meats, impressive abalone dishes, and some of the best dim sum in town. July 2025: This latest refresh includes new seasonal menus at Summer Palace and Man Fu Yuan, a deeper spotlight on heritage at Plum Village and Spring Court, and the elegant return of Teochew cuisine at Tien Court. Whether you’re craving luxury or looking for soulful, nostalgic fare, these picks represent the very best of Chinese dining in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best traditional Chinese dialect restaurants in Singapore and The best modern Chinese restaurants 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.

Singapore's got a soft spot for Japanese food and it's easy to see why. The choices are endless: elegant kaiseki spots that deliver multi-course feasts, yakiniku joints to grill melt-in-the-mouth wagyu, or bustling izakayas where the yakitori never stops sizzling. Some of the city’s best Japanese restaurants are all about tradition, with fresh seafood flown in straight from Toyosu Market, while others shake things up with modern twists.  No matter the mood or budget, they all have a knack for great Japanese food and will tempt you to linger a little longer. Whether you're slipping into a stylish dining room for a delicate kaiseki dinner, or sharing smoky skewers and sake with friends at a spot that feels straight out of Tokyo’s back alleys, you’re in for a good time.  This list rounds up some of our favourite Japanese restaurants in Singapore – from intimate omakase counters to lively ramen joints – all worth booking ahead for. Hungry yet? Itadakiamsu! RECOMMENDED: The best affordable sushi bars in Singapore and the best cafés in Singapore Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants. 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.

Indian cuisine in Singapore has evolved far beyond the usual go-to biryanis and ghee-laden curries, though these are droolworthy on their own too. Today’s top Indian restaurants in Singapore offer a thrilling range of flavours, concepts, and experiences, from creative tasting menus and Michelin-starred plates to time-honoured dishes that stay true to regional traditions.  This list is all about highlighting kitchens that are the best at what they do, whether it’s mastering the use of the tandoor oven and delivering lip-smacking, smoky dishes, or perfecting a simple meal of thosai and filter coffee. Expect everything from vibrant South Indian breakfasts to progressive North Indian dishes, and even Indian-inspired cocktails that surprise and delight.  We’ve scoured the city to bring you these top picks. Some are stalwarts that have stood the test of time; others are humble, delicious spots that are well worth a repeat visit. June 2025: Since our last roundup, we’ve refreshed the list with worthy additions like The Elephant Room while keeping trusted favourites like Shahi Maharani and thosai institution MTR Singapore that continue to deliver the goods. RECOMMENDED: The best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Singapore and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants. Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reser

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. May 2025: This list has been updated with new favourites like Dearborn and Caffe 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. En

Gone are the days when vegetarian and vegan dining in Singapore meant uninspiring salads or basic grain bowls. Today, the city’s best plant-based restaurants are bold, inventive, and downright delish. Whether you’re a full-time herbivore, or just looking to eat clean for a change, Singapore’s green scene is a cut above many others in the region, and promises a great variety of meatless options at all price points. This list isn’t just meant for our vegan and vegetarian friends – it’s about celebrating flavour-first cooking that just happens to be meat-free (read: no compromising on taste). Some of these spots even offer clever, innovative dishes, from plant-based caviar to spins on hawker staples like orh lua and duck rice. There are also plenty of cuisines to choose from, from Japanese and Peranakan, to Thai and Korean. And yes, we’ve also included some classic vegetarian institutions, tried and tested by us and also the hordes of locals who swear by it. Ready to eat your greens? Here are the best plant-based joints in Singapore right now – places that prove going meat-free doesn’t mean missing out. April 2025: Since our last update in May 2024, we’ve swapped out several spots, including old haunts which have sadly closed (like Joie Restaurant), to make space for some of our recent obsessions like Ahimsa Sanctuary and Arunchala Bhavan. We’ve also added in some of our longtime favourites like vegetarian bee hoon stall Ruyi Yuan and others. Find out more about how Time Out ma

Great cafés in Singapore are everywhere – buried in shophouses, lined along bustling streets, perched on rooftops. Some draw in crowds with viral pastries and picture-perfect drinks, while others stay under the radar while still serving up quality brunch and brews. But what makes a café hidden? It’s not about being completely unknown (face it, that’s nearly impossible these days thanks to social media). Instead, it’s the thrill of discovery – finding a sleek coffee bar inside an old office building, or a café nestled within another business.  And yet, the phrase “hidden gem” is on the verge of being banned from the internet. Overused and stretched beyond meaning, it’s often used to describe spots that are about to become anything but secret. So let’s ditch the clichés. This list isn’t about cafés nobody knows, but those that require just that little extra effort to track down. Maybe they’re mysteriously located behind a nondescript door, buried deep in a quiet neighbourhood, or overshadowed by a bigger establishment. If you love the chase as much as the coffee, these are the best hidden cafés in Singapore to visit right now. July 2025: Since our last update in July 2024, we’ve swapped out several spots, including Kyuukei Coffee and Rookie’s Coffee Shop in Queenstown, which are a little more well-known now, with new finds like Bee Hoe Coffee in Joo Chiat. Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants. Discover, book, and save at hundreds of r

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.

Need a change of scenery from your usual work setup? Whether your home office is less than inspiring or you just can’t stand another hour in a stuffy library, we’ve got you covered. Ditch the usual crowded coffee chains and check out these alternative spots instead. These cosy cafés offer free Wi-Fi, ample power points to charge your devices, and of course, great coffee to keep you fueled while you power through your to-do list.  RECOMMENDED: Your ultimate guide to the best cafés in Singapore and the best cafés in the CBD 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.

Finding great halal food in Singapore has never been easier. Gone are the days of sticking to just nasi padang and biryani—though, don’t worry, we’ve still got some legendary picks on this list. These days, the city is buzzing with Muslim-friendly spots dishing out everything from smoky American barbecue and fiery Xinjiang noodles to Cajun seafood boils and classic Italian fare. And whether you’re after a laid-back café, a lively group dining spot, or an upscale restaurant for a special night out, there’s something for every budget and occasion. So, grab your makan buddies and dive into our ultimate guide to the best halal restaurants and cafés in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best halal Japanese restaurants in Singapore and The best halal restaurants in Orchard 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.

It felt like it wasn’t too long ago when we celebrated the debut of Singapore’s first contemporary Indian restaurant. Chef Manogren Thevar’s eponymous restaurant opened its doors in 2018 on Keong Saik Road, and after picking up two Michelin Stars, three Knives from The Best Chef awards and a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants along the way, he’s now ready for something new. Enter Thevar 2.0 – a well-rebooted version of the original, now located at Mohamed Sultan Road. It’s twice as big for one, seating 28 guests in the main dining hall, two to three at a cushy chef’s table and up to 10 in the private dining room (which is fitted with its own kitchen, restroom and private entrance). The minimalistic, sanctuary-like space is a subtle callback to Chef Mano’s childhood home in Penang, with terracotta walls and Chettinad-inspired motifs embedded in its pillars and rugs.  While the design of the restaurant is muted, the menu and flavours are anything but. Yes, it’s the same signature items that greet you in the $298 tasting menu (and new sharing dishes are on the way), but if you’ve got a real penchant for South Indian cuisine like us, and even if you don’t, a meal at Thevar is not to be passed up. Expect nothing less than spot-on seasoning, complex spice blends and stellar presentation. Chef Mano brings his classical French training to the table – his creations are never so vibrant that they overwhelm, nor so restrained that they feel pared back. My meal kicks off with a flavour-

Ready to feel good, inside and out? Glow Festival is lighting up Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza for nine days from July 5 to 13 with a jam-packed lineup of all things wellness. Think sunrise yoga sessions with a stunning view, high-energy barre and HIIT classes, soothing sound baths, craft workshops and even ice baths if you’re daring enough to take the plunge.  Back for its fourth edition, this year’s Glow Festival is bigger than ever, with over 70 experiences curated by 26 wellness partners and 64 hosts, including folks like running queen Ling Er Choo, acclaimed yogi Dylan Werner and Australian sprinter Olivia May.  Run club addicts, there’s also a 60km ultra marathon if you’re up for a challenge. The Noble Ultra SG60 kicks off on July 13 in support of mental health causes, and you can grab tickets to join the 21km and 8km legs of the route. Not a self-professed fitness buff? There are plenty of other sessions to get involved in, from coffee pop-ups to yin yoga and breathwork classes, as well as workshops that teach you how to slay your motherhood journey or craft your own macramé keychains and marble coasters.  Check out the Glow Festival website and event schedule to find out about ticket prices for individual classes. Or, purchase packages which entitle you to curate your own festival experience, whether you’re keen on studio, workshop, or run sessions. 

If the brief is ‘client meeting in the CBD’, The Spot is where many flock to for a fail-proof option. This all-day dining restaurant and bar is wedged in the heart of Marina One, and despite its semi-casual appearance, don’t expect the standard bistro fare here. The menu is pegged as contemporary European, but there’s a distinct Asian feel in the use of ingredients. Expect plenty of finesse and creativity, without anything being too far-reaching for a casual lunch appointment.  A must-order to start? The salmon nachos – a snackable, shareable tower of crispy gyoza skin with tartare, bonito mayo and wasabi guac. Another safe choice is the pork belly ‘char siu’, which is thoughtfully topped with pickled cucumbers, mustard and apple purée to cut through those fatty, melty layers.  Other table favourites include stuffed chicken wings packed with truffle chicken mousse and a hint of Sichuan peppercorn; hay-smoked hamachi with a trio of condiments – yuzu kosho, pickles and wasabi ponzu; and one of Chef’s signatures – the chilli crab pancake. The crispy dashi-infused egg layer comes with chunks of blue crab and is crowned with a heaping load of coriander – diabolical, but perfect if coriander is your thing.  Fill up on mains like a tamarind-glazed toothfish donabe, which is cleverly mixed with rice pops for extra texture, or gnaw on a heaving rack of Iberico pork ribs, grilled over binchotan and finished with a kicap manis glaze. Round off with desserts like the Chocolate Tart 2.0,

Helmed by industry veteran June Baek, this tiny 12-seater bar is one of 2025’s most exciting openings. After winning competitions and honing her craft across South Korea and Vietnam, Baek brings her playful yet refined cocktails back to Singapore, where she previously bartended at Madame Fan and MO Bar. Now, in her very own space, she experiments with flavours from her Korean heritage, local Singaporean flavours, and other delightfully nostalgic concoctions.  HSSC’s debut menu Do What Brings You Joy is a two-pager spread of 14 cocktails, with interesting savoury concoctions like Cold Soup ($26), Achar ($25), and The French Fries 2.0 ($26). The Cold Soup is a take on a Ulsan summer quick-fix dish: oi naengguk or cold cucumber soup. The incredibly zingy yet potent blend consists of Tokki Soju with kelp dashi, sesame, cucumber, and apple vinegar.  Baek recommends the Camellia ($25) for those who love sour flavour profiles. The rum, galangal, and rose blend is one that’s close to her heart, having first debuted as a competition cocktail. Meanwhile, The French Fries 2.0 is as irreverent as it gets, featuring Monkey Shoulder whisky infused with fries, Heinz ketchup, tomato, chilli, and salt.  The vibeA pocket-sized, dark, underground den that's perpetually packed. It's quite the squeeze, but just right for intimate date nights. The food Before descending into Hup San Social Club, line your stomach with Club Street Laundry's menu of modern Australian plates — our favourite's got to

The new Club Street Laundry is anything but a laundromat, but the restaurant does pay homage to its past life as Hup San Laundry, frequented by second-generation immigrants nearly a century ago. The “Hup San” name also lives on in Hup San Social Club, the cocktail bar in the basement, inspired by the many Chinese social clubs that once lined the street in the early 1900s. If you’re looking for a place to people-watch, Club Street Laundry fits the bill perfectly. The breezy, open-concept bistro has high tables perched along walkways, staring out at the charming shophouses around the neighbourhood. You’ll quickly spot the happy hour board splashed out with $15 house wines, tap cocktails, and full-pint Peronis from 4pm to 7pm on weekdays. The menu is positioned as modern-Australian, but really, Chef Justin Hammond (previously from Neon Pigeon and Underdog Inn) works his way around any and every flavour profile just fine, with dishes based off his travels around the world. We have no qualms devouring the flame-grilled beef cheeks which sit atop a bed of buttery mash ($33). Cooked overnight in a master-stock of dashi, orange peel, star anise and other spices, the beef comes out fork-tender without even a need for chewing, and the ahi verde (a type of South American pesto) adds pleasant acidity to each bite.   Despite our biases against the usual beurre blanc, fennel, dill and fish combination, the charcoal-grilled sea bream ($31) turns out excellently executed. Pickled fennel grac

Some might scoff at the idea of a meatless omakase, but the opening of Ki Su is a big win for vegetarians and veggie lovers alike who now have the opportunity to savour the art and experience of omakase without any restrictions.  Inspired by shojin ryori, which is a traditional style of cooking practised by Buddhist monks in Japan, Ki Su’s plant-based menus feature both refreshing and rich flavours as well as diverse textures to keep things interesting. Look out for the Air Flown Tonburi Caviar which is spotlighted in the appetiser if it's available – it's a vegan delicacy consumed in Japan’s Akita Prefecture which is reminiscent of fish caviar. The lunch ($98) and dinner ($168) sets come with eight and ten courses respectively, all with a strong focus on dishes that are healthy and nourishing.

Think Korean barbecue and thick strips of samgyeopsal (pork belly) or slabs of galbi (beef ribs) might come to mind. Song Gye Ok offers something entirely new to Singapore’s K-BBQ scene – grilled chicken over charcoal. Hailing straight from Seoul, the chain commands hour-long queues in the Korean capital, with even celebrities and TV food programs singing praises.  Its Singapore outlet is wedged in the buzzing Telok Ayer area, joining the company of other popular Korean barbecue outlets, so it must be doing something right to be earning snaking queues despite only offering one kind of protein on its menu. The restaurant manages to replicate the look and feel of its Korean counterparts, with dark-wooden tones, rustic design elements, and Hanok-inspired interiors. For a more immersive dining experience, snag a seat along the raised counter tables under makeshift huts to watch the staff grill up your meal right before you. If you’re dining in a big group, regular table seats are available too. Song Gye Ok’s claim to fame is its SGO signature grill platter (720 grams, $98) with six chicken cuts including rare parts like boneless chicken neck fillets, gizzards, hearts, and chicken breast softbone. The standard grill platter (470 grams, $68) does away with the boneless neck fillets, and both platters also include chicken thigh and tenders.  A word of caution: dining here isn’t for the fainthearted, especially those who might find chicken innards (gizzard) or hearts a tad grisly to

Are things finally looking up in Singapore’s fine dining world? Amidst a dry spell in the F&B scene where closures outpace exciting new openings, the debut of mod-Spanish restaurant Sugarra offers a welcome glimmer of hope.  For those familiar with Basque Kitchen, Sugarra is the reincarnation of the Michelin-starred restaurant which shuttered in 2023, dressed up several notches. The mastermind behind both concepts is Chef Aitor Jeronimo Orive. But in his absence – the chef is mostly based in Melbourne – it’s his trusted Chef de Cuisine Aitor Gonzalez who takes charge of the kitchen. Northern Spain and the Basque Country are Chef Aitor Jeronimo’s main sources of inspiration, but his dishes also tap into the wider culinary landscape of the region, with sprinkles of personal memories here and there.  Perhaps understanding that the vast majority of diners might not know Spanish cuisine beyond paella and gambas, he chooses to start the meal with the tapitas, a show-stopping spread of eight bite-sized tapas representing different regions of Spain. Look out for signatures like the green spinach tart with pine nuts and crispy garlic, as well as the 45-day aged Galician beef tartare and egg confit sandwiched between flatbread.  Next, the traditional Spanish omelette is reimagined as layers of confit potato, sabayon and potato ‘espuma’ in the Tortilla de Patatas. Topped with luxurious shavings of black truffle, this comforting dish is an easy favourite. The bread course impresses as w

The Coconut Club welcomes a sister restaurant above its Beach Road digs – and no, it’s not plates of ayam goreng berampah it’s selling, but a whole new concept: ‘new-gen’ Singaporean cuisine. The term might invite some initial scepticism, but Chef Marcus Leow (formerly of Naked Finn and Magic Square) and his team are quick to quell it. Simply come wide-eyed and open-minded, and don’t expect to see jazzed-up laksa, glorified chicken rice, or anything of the sort.  Instead, the kitchen works with disparate flavours, obscure and long-forgotten ingredients, and a whole lot of creativity to whip up dishes that are noticeably Singaporean, yet delightfully foreign. We like the grilled firefly squid salad, where the iconic pairing of dark soy sauce and jambu in rojak is enhanced with briny – if slightly funky – firefly squid, strawberries, and kailan. The usually viscous hae gor (prawn paste) is also reworked into a golden, syrupy caramel that’s lighter on the palate. For dinner (four courses, $88 per person), a sharing course of crispy meesua is served among a spread of other oddball condiments. You’ve got the doughy pancakes, heavily deep-fried, and to pair: a heap of batang otah paste, fermented soy sauce with gula melaka, and a zesty salad with gado-gado and pineapple dressing. Whether you’re dining in for lunch (two courses, $58 per person) or dinner, you’re due to make the same tough decision on the main course: nasi ulam with grilled seasonal fish, or beef short rib satay wit

If you spot a long queue near Redhill Food Centre in the morning, especially on the first and 15th day of the Chinese lunar calendar, then it's probably temple-goers queueing up for Ruyi Yuan — or one of its diehard fans waiting on a plate of vegetarian bee hoon.  We’ve been patronising this humble stall at Redhill since the 2000s – yes, back when a plate would only set you back $1.50. Now priced at $4, you get the same standard mix of toppings above your noodles. Mushrooms, cabbage, fried soy pieces resembling chicken chop, sweet ‘char siew’ slices, and tofu come together to add different textures and flavours to the mix. As with any plate of vegetarian bee hoon, it's mandatory to add a serving of zai er (crispy soy skin) on top for the extra crunch. Noodle customisations are also available, with options like hor fun, bee hoon, or yellow noodles — all of which have a faint and pleasant wok hei aroma.  The cherry on top is the sweet sambal served on the side, similar to nasi lemak chilli. Granted, this isn't the healthiest plate of vegetarian food around, but with how well all the components go together, you might even forget that it's meatless while you're busy wolfing it down.  If it’s your first time visiting, the queue system is pretty systematic: order on the right, then proceed to the left side to pay and collect your food. The usual wait is around 15 minutes, but do note that the first and 15th day of the lunar month, as well as special occasions like Qing Ming Festiva

There are plenty of vegetarian gems in Fortune Centre, but we like New Green Pasture Café for its clean, homely environment, friendly service, and meals that are light and refreshing on the palate. Tucked away on the fourth floor of the establishment, this eatery has been around for over 26 years, and is patronised by both elderly regulars and the younger crowd. You’ll notice shelves lined with health foods, organic biscuits, and more. The thunder tea rice ($12.50) here is a must-try. Brown rice is the only option, but it adds to the myriad of textures in the bowl – think peanuts, crunchy and savoury cai pu, gluten (to mimic fried scrambled eggs), dried tofu skin for umami, and three kinds of veggies. The slightly minty, green gruel is also just the right consistency. Ladle as much of it as you like over your rice, but leave just enough to have on its own for a satisfying end to your meal. And unless you don’t mind leaving absolutely stuffed, we recommend asking for a half portion of rice for the lei cha – believe us, it’s more than enough to fill you up. Order a side of the stuffed tau pok to share ($10.50). Four pockets of baked or air-fried tau pok (either way, they're certainly not deep-fried, seeing that they're perfectly crisp without the slightest trace of oil) come stuffed to the brim with crunchy veggies like alfalfa, beetroot, carrots, and radishes. But the reason why folks love this might be the special house sauce that's drizzled over it. We can't quite put a fin

This South Indian vegetarian joint in Little India is where to go for curry-drenched banana leaf plates with free-flow servings of rice and toppings — all below $10. The dishes and condiments at Arunchala are reminiscent of home-cooked meals — warm, hearty, nicely balanced, and not overly oily or cloying. The wallet-friendly price point of $9.90 for the basic rice meal is all you need to fill you up for the rest of the day. You get endless rice top-ups, rasam (a South Indian soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, spices, and herbs), vadai, papadum, three kinds of vegetables, and of course, dahl. The best way to enjoy this glorious mess? With your hands, and a mandatory side of teh halia (ginger tea). The dosai here is great stuff too — there are over 18 variations, which all come with the mandatory accompaniments of coconut chutney and the like. The plain starts at $3, but our favourite is the onion masala ($6), which is stuffed with a punchy potatoey filling and diced onions for extra crunch. Order a cup of filter coffee to complete the experience.  

Around a year ago, we bid farewell to the iconic McDonald’s store at the first-floor corner unit of Raffles City Shopping Centre. In its place, Casa Vostra opened. The Italian eatery is the sister restaurant of La Bottega Enoteca – an award-winning pizzeria in Singapore by Chef Antonio Miscellaneo – and is meant to offer a more accessible, affordable and casual dining experience compared to the original.  The reception? Polarising. Some loved that you could get Chef Antonio’s signature pizzas at a fraction of the price (from $15 per pizza) and at a more convenient location, since La Bottega Enoteca is located in Joo Chiat. Others found the quality to be inconsistent. And many had things to say about the long queues due to the restaurant’s no-reservations policy. Well, love it or hate it, you can’t deny the restaurant’s immense success, so much so that Chef Antonio has decided to open a second outlet in Singapore, this time in the heartlands. Casa Vostra’s second branch is opening this September, 2025 at Jem in Jurong East. So if you’re a Westie who’s curious to find out if this popular pizzeria lives up to the hype, here’s your chance. Photograph: Casa Vostra | Prosciutto e Fichi pizza, Baked Scamorza The new 80-seater restaurant will be larger than the Raffles City outlet, which only seats 60. It will also serve outlet-exclusive dishes like the Prosciutto e Fichi pizza ($27) and baked scamorza ($6). Of course, Chef Antonio’s trademarked Newpolitan and Doublecrunch pizzas w

It’s back to business for Tiong Bahru Market, which has reopened in July after three months of upgrading works. The beloved food centre has been serving the community for decades, from its early days as Seng Poh Market in the 1950s. The market was last renovated in 2017, and though it was still in good condition as of early 2025, the National Environment Agency (NEA) decided some light upkeep was needed.  The refreshed food centre boasts new tables and stools, new floor tiles, larger fans to keep the indoor area cool, and added awnings to keep the rain out and provide added shade to tables by the railings. The toilets have also been cleaned and upgraded. On top of that, you’ll also spot a fresh coat of paint on the building’s exterior and a new landscaped garden on the first floor.  After a long wait, regular customers can finally feast again and eat their fill of the many food offerings the market is known for. There are a whopping 342 food and drink stalls at Tiong Bahru Market, including Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee Jian Bo Tiong Bahru Shui Kueh, which sells fluffy steamed rice cakes doused with homemade chilli and chye poh (pickled radish).  Many also love Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice, Hui Ji Fishball Noodles, Tiong Bahru Hainanese Chicken Rice, and Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup. And of course, not forgetting the longstanding rivalry between Lor Mee 178 and Tiong Bahru Lor Mee. Meanwhile, those craving a light snack can visit Grandpa Homemade Cheung Fun; Tiong Bahru Teochew

Singapore’s drinking scene is as exciting as ever, and we’ve just made it easier for you to explore it. Introducing the very first Time Out Singapore Bar Guide, your essential bar-hopping companion for 2025.  We’re thrilled to launch this inaugural publication – a pocket-sized but info-packed guidebook spotlighting the city’s most buzzworthy bars, from sleek rooftop lounges and speakeasies to trailblazing cocktail joints and laid-back gems. Photograph: Daniel Iskandar for Time Out Singapore For this debut edition, we’ve handpicked 50 of the most outstanding bars across the island and organised them by neighbourhood so you can explore each area like a pro. Hop through bar-dense Tanjong Pagar, soak up skyline views at Marina Bay, or take a little booze break in the middle of an Orchard Road shopping spree. You’ll also find nifty neighbourhood maps, detailed spider graph ratings of each bar (which we’re incredibly proud of), and even profiles of bartenders to watch, as well as insights on trending drinks. Photograph: Daniel Iskandar for Time Out Singapore Whether you’re a seasoned barfly or just getting acquainted with the bar scene, this guide will be your go-to. Best of all? It’s completely free. Grab your copy starting July 1 at the selected hotels and bars in Singapore listed below. Limited copies are available, while stocks last – check with the venues before making your way down to avoid disappointment.  Where to get a copy of Time Out Singapore’s 2025 Bar Guide: ATLA

If you missed Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day in April, here’s your chance to redeem yourself. Museum of Ice Cream (MOIC) – the pretty pink ice cream museum and parlour at Dempsey – is giving away free ice cream this coming Sunday for National Ice Cream Day. The offer is available for one day only on July 20, from 10am to 6pm.  There are no hidden T&Cs, simply waltz up to the Dessert Bar and claim your free cone. 12 signature flavours are available while stocks last, and these include peanut butter banana, cotton candy bubblegum and dairy-free options like mango passionfruit sorbet to cater to dietary restrictions.  Thinking of bringing the furkids out? The Dessert Bar is pet-friendly as well. And for this Sunday only, MOIC is partnering with Nutrivore to give away free pet-friendly scoops for the first 50 pups of the day – all you have to do is follow Nutrivore on Instagram. There will also be booths at the venue where guests can explore Nutrivore’s range of pet treats and meals. READ MORE: Marina Bay Sands expands with a new 55-storey hotel tower featuring a rooftop garden, casino, and more These are all the hawker stalls and restaurants in Singapore on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list for 2025 The best healthy restaurants in Singapore

The official Michelin Guide ceremony for Singapore isn’t till July 24, but before the stars are announced, the Guide has first released its equally anticipated Bib Gourmand list. Each year, the Bib Gourmand category gets as much, if not arguably more attention than the Michelin stars category, as it zooms in on two things Singaporeans love the most: good eats and great value.  Similar to 2024, there are nine new entrants on the Bib Gourmand list this year, and two which are moved from the Michelin Selected category to Bib Gourmand. This bumps up the total number of Bib Gourmand eateries in Singapore to a staggering 89, from 81 last year and 79 in the previous year. That’s a whole lot of eating to do. Among the nine additions this year are Kitchenman Nasi Lemak, Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow, Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee, Sin Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh, Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge, Wok Hei Hor Fun and To-Ricos Kway Chap. Thai grill bar and restaurant Jungle at Ann Siang Hill and Sri Lankan restaurant Kotuwa – some of the Time Out Singapore team’s go-to haunts – also make the cut. Photograph: Jungle Longtime favourites like chicken rice chain Boon Tong Kee (the original Balestier Road branch in particular) and wanton noodle specialist Ji Ji Noodle House are the eateries that get an upgrade from Selected to Bib Gourmand this year.  Meanwhile, last year’s first-time Bib Gourmand awardees Chef Kang’s Noodle House, Italian restaurant Fico, Jalan Sultan Prawn Mee, Jason Penang Cuisine

The verdict is in, and five Singapore bars have done the city proud in last night’s announcement of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in Wynn Palace, Macau. That’s six down from last year, where we saw 11 bars in Singapore sweep the scoreboard. This year, we’re overtaken by Bangkok and Hong Kong, which have seven and six bars on the list, respectively. The Singapore bars on this year’s ranking are, in order:  Jigger & Pony at No. 3 Offtrack at No. 23 Nutmeg & Clove at No. 24 Cat Bite Club at No. 44 Native at No. 45 Once again, industry giant Jigger & Pony is crowned The Best Bar in Singapore and third in Asia – that’s seven years straight of appearing in Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ top 10 ranking. Most recently, it released its latest menu, Embrace, which is all about embracing change, tradition, and oneself. Photograph: Jigger & Pony | Red Revival, Pony Star Martini Meanwhile, Offtrack (a new entrant in 2024) steadies its reign with a modest climb from No. 25 to No. 23. The vinyl-friendly bar is known for its solid music programming, fun, laidback atmosphere and pan-Asian grub. There’s also hidden agave powerhouse Cat Bite Club, which crawls up a whopping 34 spots from No. 77 last year to No. 44 this year.  Some sobering news for bar industry veterans Nutmeg & Clove and Native: Nutmeg & Clove slips from its cushy No. 6 spot to No. 24 this year, while Native falls from No. 31 to No. 45 this year – both still respectable rankings that secure their spots among the world’s best. Photograph: Nut

It felt like it wasn’t too long ago when we celebrated the debut of Singapore’s first contemporary Indian restaurant. Chef Manogren Thevar’s eponymous restaurant opened its doors in 2018 on Keong Saik Road, and after picking up two Michelin Stars, three Knives from The Best Chef awards and a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants along the way, he’s now ready for something new. Enter Thevar 2.0 – a well-rebooted version of the original, now located at Mohamed Sultan Road. It’s twice as big for one, seating 28 guests in the main dining hall, two to three at a cushy chef’s table and up to 10 in the private dining room (which is fitted with its own kitchen, restroom and private entrance). The minimalistic, sanctuary-like space is a subtle callback to Chef Mano’s childhood home in Penang, with terracotta walls and Chettinad-inspired motifs embedded in its pillars and rugs.  Photograph: Thevar While the design of the restaurant is muted, the menu and flavours are anything but. Yes, it’s the same signature items that greet you in the $298 tasting menu (though we hear new sharing dishes are on the way), but if you’ve got a real penchant for South Indian cuisine like us, and even if you don’t, a meal at Thevar is not to be passed up. Expect nothing less than spot-on seasoning, complex spice blends and stellar presentation. Chef Mano brings his classical French training to the table – his creations are never so vibrant that they overwhelm, nor so restrained that they feel pared back. My

Who knew desserts had the potential to go absolutely viral on the internet? On social media platform TikTok especially, we’ve seen enough crackling tanghulu ASMRs, one-million-strand dragon’s beard candy challenges, and Dubai chocolate #foodporn to make our sugar levels spike just from scrolling. There’s just so much variety, and it seems like every country has got that one dessert that they’re loud and proud about.  Coffeeness, a coffee review platform, took the liberty to run an AI-powered analysis of viral TikTok videos around to world, to find out which desserts in each country are trending worldwide on the app. The result? A map of the most popular sweet treats around the globe. And of course, Singapore, self-proclaimed food capital of Asia, is not exempt.  You would have seen the title by now – no, it’s not chendol, ice kachang, kueh tutu, or Lao Ban’s soya beancurd that Singaporeans used to go feral for, that makes the cut. Instead, the humble pandan cake is named our country’s must-try dessert for travellers. Yes, that spongey, fluffy, bright green slice that used to go for $0.70 per piece at your school canteen. Photograph: Bengawan Solo, Rich & Good Cake Shop What’s special about the dessert is that its distinct green hue isn’t the result of artificial colouring, but from the natural dye of pandan leaves. And as underrated as it is, pandan cake has its diehard fans too. Our top contender? Bengawan Solo’s pandan chiffon cake – light, fragrant, and a longtime classi

Tucked behind a nondescript door along Neil Road, Side Door is the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention – but once you’re in, it doesn’t let go. Founded by a talented bartender-and-chef duo, this cosy cocktail den (No. 53 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ 51-100 list) is where personal storytelling and technical finesse collide. It’s not your typical bar. And Bannie Kang isn’t your typical bartender.  Our first sip of anything Bannie made was in 2018 during her Anti:Dote days – a time when cocktail-making was more about spectacle. Back then, she was slinging everything from drinks served in fabric-sack lookalike cups hiding baby carrots, to whimsical sharing cocktails spinning on miniature ferris wheels.  Photograph: Side Door Bannie’s cocktails aren’t anything like that now. These days, the 36-year-old has settled into a signature style that’s unmistakably her own – clarified, minimalistic, yet layered and complex. She’s also racked up an impressive list of accolades, including World Class Bartender of the Year in 2019 and the Bartender’s Bartender Award in 2021. And most recently, she’s also gained a worthy disciple (and contender) – her husband, Tryson Quek, who was just named World Class Singapore 2025 champion.  Seven years later, we had the chance to chat with Bannie to find out about her favourite creations at Side Door, the bar’s unofficial anthem (it’s a cheeky one) and her thoughts on the latest cocktail trends. Scroll on to see what she’s got to say – and don’t f

The year is 2016, and you’re seeing luscious bowls crowned with black truffle, uni and glistening slices of A5 wagyu all over your Instagram feed. That’s probably Black Cow’s “All in One” sukiyaki donburi, the restaurant’s headlining dish which had everyone drooling over at one point in time. Sadly, the joint has recently called it a day, shutting its South Beach outlet on June 28 after almost a decade of operations.  The restaurant took to Instagram on June 25 to announce its closure, though no reasons were given. It also recounted its last nine years and thanked customers and its team. While no reopening plans were shared, this is likely not the last you’ll see of the wagyu specialists – the brand informed fans that it will be taking time to “reset” and “prepare for what’s next”. Thankfully, we’ve got plenty of excellent Japanese restaurants in Singapore to satisfy our cravings while we wait. View this post on Instagram A post shared by B L A C K C O W (@blackcowsg) Black Cow’s closure comes amid a harsh tide of F&B losses in Singapore. As if last year didn’t hit the industry hard enough, it seems things aren’t letting up in 2025, with big names like Eggslut, Burger & Lobster, 1939 Singapore, and Fluff Stack saying goodbye too. But it’s not all doom and gloom. New places continue to pop up across the island. Most excitingly, Resorts World Sentosa is soon debuting a new lifestyle hub, Weave. This new project will feature a new wave of big F&B openings lik

New restaurant chatter might have quietened down a little these days, but July is still bringing some seriously exciting arrivals to Singapore’s food scene. This month, beloved stalwart Cherry Garden returns as Cherry Garden by Chef Fei, fronted by the two-Michelin-starred maestro from Guangzhou. In Chinatown, Leila is turning heads with its bold Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, paired with cocktails that invite you to stay on till late.  Over at Marina Bay Sands, feast sky-high at the hotel’s newest Chinese fine-dining destination where refined Cantonese dishes meet a full-on Gong Fu tea ceremony led by an acclaimed tea master. Sushi lovers, don’t miss Keijo, a serene Edomae-style omakase that puts vinegared rice front and centre. And on Ann Siang Hill, a unique modern Australian bistro concept is the latest buzz in town, thanks to its hidden underground bar. Ready your appetite – these are July’s must-try new openings. Explore Singapore’s 2025 restaurant openings by month: New restaurants in January New restaurants in February New restaurants in March  New restaurants in April New restaurants in May New restaurants in June Find out which are the best new restaurants that opened in Singapore this year. 1. Cherry Garden by Chef Fei   Photograph: Cherry Garden by Chef Fei | Wok-fried lobster After a major glow-up, 38-year-old Cherry Garden at Mandarin Oriental returns with a brand-new identity and a Michelin-starred name behind the kitchen. Now known as Cherry Garden

It’s that time of the year again: Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025 is drawing near, and ahead of the top 50 announcement ceremony on July 15, the academy has first released its usual extended 51-100 list last evening. This year, Singapore sweeps the charts again with six of our bars making the extended ranking. We may be two short of last year, but the good news is that we’re still the city with the most bars on the list. In particular, we celebrate a fresh face: Side Door steps straight into the spotlight with an impressive debut at No. 53. Tucked away inconspicuously along Neil Road, Side Door is the brainchild of acclaimed bartender Bannie Kang (anyone remember her Bartender’s Bartender win in 2021?) and chef Tryson Quek. The cosy space fuses Bannie’s clean, minimalist cocktails with thoughtful small plates – and evidently, the judges noticed.  Photograph: Side Door | Tropical It’s not the best day for everyone else on the list, with some major tumbles from last year’s top 50 rankings. Following closely behind Side Door is Sago House at No. 56, slipping from last year’s 15th place on the main list. Pause the panic though – the gritty, graffiti-splashed dive bar is still a long-time favourite for its fuss-free drinks and relentless charm.  There’s also Origin Bar (No. 60) which placed at No. 32 last year, known for its transportative, travel-themed menu. Night Hawk (No. 77) also takes a hit – it ranked at 16th place last year – but the bar is still making waves with its cinematic