Get us in your inbox

Search
Noa Interiors
Photograph: NoaNoa Interiors

Best new restaurants in Singapore: September 2023

New restaurants, cafés and menu updates to check out in Singapore for September 2023

Dawson Tan
Written by
Dawson Tan
Advertising

In Singapore, hot new restaurants and cafés open on the regular and diners are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking out where to eat. While we all have an opinion of what the best restaurants and best cafes are, these fresh new dining concepts aren't going to eat themselves. Now here's a concise list that perhaps even helps you save – or splurge – a buck or two.

In this list, there is an enchanting Beirut-inspired restaurant by the godfather of modern Lebanese cuisine at Robertson Quay, a 100-seater grand brasserie by prolific Swedish chef Björn Frantzén in Victoria Concert Hall and more. Stay tuned (or save this tab) as we refresh this page every month with what's new and noteworthy in Singapore's dynamic dining scene.

RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try and the 50 best bars in Singapore

Hot new restaurants and cafes to dine at this September

  • Restaurants
  • Lebanese
  • Raffles Place

In the lush enclave of Robertson Quay lies a modern Lebanese restaurant with one mission and one mission only – to transport your tastebuds to the historical city of Beirut. And with the godfather of modern Lebanese cuisine chef Greg Malouf at the helm, expect a gastronomic experience that is boldly unique without straying far from its roots. Freshness is key in Lebanese cuisine hence foundational ingredients used are exclusively sourced from the souks in Beirut. Even the dazzling interiors and ever-evolving playlists are designed to mimic the sights and sounds of the energetic souks of Beirut.

  • Restaurants
  • Brasseries
  • City Hall

Brasserie Astoria debuts a traditional brasserie experience by prolific Swedish chef Björn Frantzén – best known for the three-Michelin-star fine dining restaurant Zén. Set in the grand Victoria Concert Hall, the 100-seater restaurant is the first overseas outpost that also mirrors the Stockholm flagship which occupies a historical building with significant meaning in film and theatre. Re-igniting the spirit of grand dining halls in Singapore, the restaurant boasts tableside service, flambé trolleys, dessert carts and Frantzén’s unique spin on classic brasserie fare. After the sumptuous feast, head on over to the gorgeous bar for a flawless pour of a freezing-cold martini – you won't go wrong with that.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Japanese
  • Tanjong Pagar

A meal at Sushi Kawsemi centres around umami. And this is achieved through the practice of custom fish ageing techniques that are executed with plenty of finesse – the itamae (head chef) will employ jukusei (wet-ageing) or ichiyaboshi (dry-ageing) depending on the type of fish. A quick sushi lunch at the 12-seater is priced at $98 while a comprehensive Edomae experience starts from $268. Besides the deft display of fish ageing, the sushi-ya also showcases a wide range of cooking techniques in the form of its starters. Think sake-laced soup bejewelled with plump hamaguri clams to mouth-watering charcoal grilled eel with creamy fermented leek sauce.

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Tanjong Pagar

Condensing the majestic myriad of pagodas in Bagan, the lush deep valleys of Kalaw, and the jewel-hued Inle Lake of Shan state all into one shophouse is Burma Social. Located along Tras Street, the multi-cultural restaurant debuts a menu titled the Feast of Six Kingdoms. Journey across traditional Burmese recipes reimagined with flavours and textures from neighbouring kingdoms of Thailand, Laos, India, China and Bangladesh. Think staples like the fermented Burmese tea leaf salad ($18) brightened with green tomatoes and the expressive Mohinga with tender barramundi fish. To booze up the immersive experience, the bar serves up playful cocktail creations (from $25) that feature ingredients such as salted plum, peppers, spices and fresh tropical fruits.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Sentosa

After a short hiatus, Skirt at W Singapore Sentosa Cove returns with a fresh look and a brand new grill-focused menu to boot. Firing up the grill is chef de cuisine Paul Chong who was previously from Butcher Boy by renowned chef Andrew Walsh. The steakhouse’s open-concept kitchen is a feast for the eyes as guests are able to marvel at the culinary artistry that happens by the grill. Savour premium cuts of meats by reputable cattle producers from Australia and Japan – think free-range grass-fed beef by Little Joe in Northeastern Victoria and the revered Omi Wagyu from Shiga Prefecture. Steaks aside, the modern grill also surfs up a treasure chest of fresh and aged seafood with wood-fired vegetarian delights.

  • Restaurants
  • Mediterranean
  • Tanjong Pagar

From Persian carpets and terrazzo tiled floors to cushy communal booth seats, it is all things Mediterranean here in the newly minted Noa Lounge at the Mondrian Singapore Duxton. At the magnificent open kitchen and bar is award-winning Chef Alain Devahive – formerly of Michelin-starred elBulli Restaurant and most recently Olivia Restaurant – who presents a harmonious blend of flavours and textures peppered with influences from across Spain, Italy, France, Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, and beyond. Think creamy hummus laced with smoky sardines and crunchy chickpeas ($16), charred cauliflower enhanced with the decadence of dates ($23), and roasted black cod with crisp green mojo and aromatic leeks ($48). Looking to imbibe? Wash the hearty nosh down with enticing cocktail concoctions (from $20) that bring together refreshing zest and hints of spice.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • French
  • Raffles Place

Located in the air-conditioned hallways of Frasers Tower, the express eatery presents hearty French-style DIY bentos that cater to busy professionals working in the CBD. Hatched up by the founders of eight-time Michelin Bib Gourmand award winner A Noodle Story, White Bird Scramble stands out among the competition with their insistence on making scrambled eggs upon order. The fluffy scramble even comes with a French butter pipette for added decadence. From $13, diners can choose a carb base, a main protein, signature scrambled eggs with toast, a handful of sides and a choice of dressing. For clean eating, go with the tender thyme-laced sous-vide chicken breast that does not lack in the taste and texture department.

  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Raffles Place

Snap Cafe is the latest addition to the list of CBD cafes. Adjacent to Amoy Street Food Centre, the minimalist coffee spot serves up Korean-inspired bakes to pair with their cuppas. The in-house roasted blend (from $4.50) combines full-bodied Brazillian beans and a light roast from Rwanda – resulting in a medium-bodied pour that drinks fruiter. Other specials include the refreshing iced orange espresso and a creamy pistachio espresso latte that is redolent with delightful nuttiness. All bakes on display are homemade and feature a creative range of flavours – think hotteok sticky roll, black sesame cheesecake crumble, matcha injeolmi canele and yuzu roll. Hearty sourdough toasties are also available for the time-pressed to refuel with.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Outram

A Japanese-inspired cafe run by a husband and wife duo has popped up along Kampong Bahru Road. One foot in, the kissaten-like space feels rustic yet homely with its wooden and rattan textured furniture and vintage leather armchairs. At the back is a loft area that can accommodate larger groups. The menu follows the Japanese theme closely with a series of Japanese-inspired pasta, rice bowls, desserts, and a range of coffee and tea. Try the signature miso carbonara ($21) which arrives al dente with pan-fried pork jowl and ikura tossed in a  savoury-sweet sauce.

Hot new restaurants and cafes to dine at this August

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary European
  • Raffles Place

Formerly from the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Octavium in Hong Kong, chef Bjoern Alexander debuts Matera, his modern Italian waterfront restaurant. Located in the charming Fullerton Waterboat House, Matera promises to blend traditional Italian cuisine and vibrant flavours of Asia on artfully inventive plates. Expect combinations like ravioli made from dumpling skin stuffed with sweet red prawns, bucatini pasta coated with spicy Asian dried scallops, Wagyu sirloins enhanced with braised beef tendons on the side, and grilled French pigeon paired with five spice jus. The fine-dining enclave is also offering tasting menu formats for a fuss-free experience: a two-course lunch starts from $78 and dinner begins at $138 for three courses, while the eight-course dinner is priced at $308 with wine pairings going for $148.

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Global
  • City Hall

Breathing fresh air into the oldfangled Purvis Street is Tempt, a groovy gastro bar that charms the senses and journeys tastebuds across cultures. The vibey space is steeped in historical charm and contemporary grittiness: gritty paint-stripped walls, tasteful wall art, and exposed brickwork from the late 1800s. Plates here are vibrant and bold, expect mouth-watering bites of Japanese tomato ceviche, crispy oxtail croquettes, and signature hay-smoked pork belly with charred fermented rose apple. And if you're adventurous, dabble in the exotic selection where crunchy pig’s ears, raw kangaroo tartare, and rabbit-stuffed pasta might perhaps delight.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Ice-cream parlours
  • Rochor

At Catkin, desserts are not an afterthought. The intimate dessert bar is helmed by Soh Hui Shan, who at 27 years young, has already clocked in with local fine-dining giants such as the now-defunct Restaurant Andre and three-Michelin-starred Restaurant Zén. Opt for the Catkin experience ($48), where Huishan recreates familiar flavours into a Haute dessert omakase course. Savour on inspirations drawn from nostalgic snacks like the tutu kueh, hawthorn flakes and the muah chee. The dessert bar has also got a range of freshly churned ice cream and sorbets for those looking for a cheeky little treat after a meal.

  • Restaurants
  • Burgers
  • City Hall

Popular craft burger joint Honbo makes its way onto the idyllic grounds of Chijmes with its American-style burgers. Hailing from Hong Kong, the Singaporean outpost will be the burger chain’s first overseas outlet. Each juicy stack is made from high-quality ingredients: freshly ground Wisconsin beef; pillowy housemade potato milk bun from a recipe by the renowned Eric Kayser; house-cured Japanese pickles; and specialty sauces developed from closely guarded recipes. There's even the option to choose whether to have your burgers smashed ($15) or the classic juicy thick cut ($18).

Hot new restaurants and cafes to dine at this July

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Tanjong Pagar

All eyes are on Tambi, a casual Southern Indian and Korean eatery along Amoy Street. Dreamt up by chef-owners Mano Thevar of two-Michelin-starred Thevar and Sun Kim of one-Michelin-starred Meta, the first-of-its-kind concept attempts to meld flavours of two cultures. Think Korean kimchi incorporated into an Indian chicken curry stew ($18), gochujang coral grouper grilled Pollichathu-style ($32), and crispy prawn pancakes ($28) inspired by the humble Thosai (Indian thin pancake) and Pajeon (Korean pancake).

The idea is to keep it cool, casual and accessible. And prices are also kept affordable as a gesture of gratitude to the local dining community for its support through the pandemic. Dinner is served in two sittings so you best get to booking now.

  • Restaurants
  • Steakhouse
  • Tanjong Pagar

The World’s Greatest Butcher, Dario Cecchini, brings with him eight generations of butchering experience to fire up the dining scene in the little red dot with Bottega di Carna at the ultra-chic Mondrian Singapore. Expect the unexpected when it comes to dining in Bottega di Carna – think creative handmade pastas, inventive crudos and charcuterie, flame-kissed meats, luscious seafood, and even a bold range of progressive wines to pair.

Apart from the action that goes on in the open-concept kitchen, the posh restaurant is also accompanied by a congenial crew and a cavernous dining room flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the verdant outdoor garden.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Fusion
  • Orchard

Orchard's latest upscale dining gem comes by the name of Mosella and modern Mediterranean Peruvian is the theme. The cavernous dining hall features an open-concept kitchen and is flanked by the flourishing greenscape of the adjacent Forest Terrace. Savour fresh seafood ceviches, Spanish suckling pigs, spatchcock chicken, grilled seafood and Wagyu steaks. The all-day restaurant is also open for lunch with seasonal three-course sets (from $78) where guests can luxuriate over a rotation of delectable appetizers, hearty mains and an indulgent dessert to finish.

  • Restaurants
  • City Hall

While Jaan isn't exactly new, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant recently underwent a much-needed facelift that is a breath of fresh air to gastronomes. From avant-garde paintings of fossil cliffs decorating the hallway and textured azure carpets that remind of picturesque coasts to the mesmerising repurposed glass centrepiece, it is all designed to sweep you off to Devon in Southwest Britain, where acclaimed chef Kirk Westaway grew up.

Now, Spring is the theme and a multi-sensorial modern British experience is set to wow your tastebuds. Expect edible works of art inspired by Devon on intricate plates Westaway personally designs. And if that won’t convince you to make the splash during special occasions, we don’t know what else will.

Advertising
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Restaurants
  • American
  • Tanjong Pagar

Locate the quirky entrance to a hidden burger bar modelled after an 80s-inspired American diner. Slide open the doors and you’ll find yourself in The Bank where the walls are plastered with vintage movie posters and film memorabilia while 80s disco pop music pulsates in the background. Sink your teeth into greasy stacks of hand-butchered Angus Prime beef patties. Keeping it fuss-free, the menu has only three burger options: the signature cheeseburger (from $18.80), the extra-large fried chicken sandwich (from $18), and the grilled portobello burger (from $18). There is also a decent selection of sides and milkshakes too.

  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Marina Bay

Escape to Paris without leaving Singapore at PS.Café’s new MBS outlet. The 86-seater space, outfitted in PS.Cafe’s signature black and white aesthetic, is inspired by Parisian café culture and features a dining space suspended over the Canal at the Shoppes, sheltered by parasols. In addition to classics like truffle shoestring fries ($18) and the PS. big breakfast ($29), you can look forward to several new additions to the menu, including buttermilk chicken nasi lemak ($26) and duck confit curry with crispy roti ($29).

If you’re craving something sweet after your meal, the café’s classic range of desserts, such as the sticky date pudding ($15), are also on offer at the new outlet. On weekends, brunch specials will be available from 10am-4pm.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Tanjong Pagar

The homegrown Poké bowl brand comes home to Telok Ayer where it first sprouted in 2016. Now, with 14 outlets islandwide, Poke Theory opens its largest-ever outlet along the buzzy Telok Ayer Road, boasting 104 seats. It takes over the space of the now-defunct Park Bench Deli. While the popular raw fish and rice combination still headlines the value-for-money offerings (from $9.90), this new outlet will debut inventive flavours (from $11.90) that riff on beloved local dishes such as Samsui ginger chicken and vegan tempeh.

The new location also features a sauce bar that allows diners to enjoy a free-flowing range of complimentary sauces. And on July 17 (opening day), the outlet will give out free bowls to the first 50 patrons. But don't worry if you miss out, the chain will also honour an exclusive one-for-one deal for all its already affordable poke bowls.

Hot new restaurants and cafes to dine at in June

  • Restaurants
  • Italian
  • Bedok

Just when you thought the East couldn’t get any better, semi-casual waterfront restaurant Fico takes it up a notch. Inspired by his childhood growing up in the Puglian countryside, chef Mirko Febbrile presents a spread of uncomplicated Italian fare that celebrates the simple pleasures of life. It all begins with the signature Foccacina (from $18) that serves as a crisp and airy base for juicy San Marzano tomatoes, sweet Tropea onions or fresh buffalo mozzarella. Febbrile’s small plates focus on seasonal seafood and vegetables where the meaty pecorino-laced Cardoncelli mushrooms ($21) and charred red peppers with Cantabrico anchovies ($18) stood out most.

Thereafter, segue into the freshly made pasta (from $23) from linguine and malfadine to orecchiette, all prepared right in front of your eyes by the live pasta bar. For large groups, consider the showstopping grass-fed bone-in ribeye beef costada ($178) that arrives in spectacular fashion. Desserts come in a cart and you get to choose from a smorgasbord of cakes, pastries and even ice creams. Our pick? Definitely the iconic cannoli and the luscious burrata gelato.

  • Restaurants
  • Colombian
  • Raffles Place

Chef Fernando Arévalo, former chef-owner of now-defunct Preludio, returns to his roots with a playfully elegant Colombian dining experience in the heart of the CBD. Expect a strong influence from Fernando’s Colombian narrative and memories set onto plates that finds balance between robust and refreshing flavours. Think modern luxe interpretations of Latin American classics such as the fork-tender Lengua (veal tongue), Tiradito (Spanish mackerel), and Arroz Caldoso, an indulgent seafood rice dish bejewelled with uni cream, smoked eel, and caviar. The restaurant’s sleek interiors tastefully reflects the soul of Colombian culture where handcrafted indigenous artworks and life-sized vases adorned the space.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Moroccan
  • River Valley

Transporting you away to the charming city of Marrakesh, Tajine is a ritzy restaurant serving up exotic flavours of Moroccan cuisine. The executive chef at the helm is Remy Carmignani, who cut his teeth at the iconic La Mamounia in Marrakesh. Communal sharing plates take inspiration from traditional North African cooking techniques and Mediterranean sensibilities. Graze about the mixed platter that features an appetizing spread, from grilled eggplants and creamy fava bean hummus to pistachio-crusted slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Expect showstopping mains to arrive in a piping hot Tajine encasing a succulent chicken or a milk-fed veal shank. There is also the highlight of Couscous Royal which is made up of fluffy hand-rolled semolina cooked with lamb, spring chicken, onions and chickpeas.

For Moroccan-inspired tipples that feature herbal infusions, check out the Sumactini, a sweet and tangy martini built with sumac-infused vodka, pomegranate and pink grapefruit. Wine lovers can also try the Queen of the Roses, where an aromatic mix of rosé wine, cognac VSOP, peach, and strawberry delivers a refreshingly fruity drink to pair.

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Raffles Place

If Boat Quay ever needs another F&B concept, it’s gotta be this. And ex-Les Amis Group chef Brandon Lee's culinary philosophy is all about making fine dining accessible through his elevated modern Asian plates. Think bincho-grilled Caesar salad ($17) with brown butter anchovy sauce, crab toast ($19) with mustard-laced brown butter aioli, collagen-rich miso cod ($26), and tender sous-vide grilled chicken ($28) with cauliflower hummus. The fuss-free booze list features approachable bottles of natural wines and sessionable craft beers and they only go for $10 during happy hours (Tuesdays to Saturdays, from 5pm to 8pm).

Hot new restaurants and cafes to dine at in May

  • Restaurants
  • Japanese
  • Sentosa

Miyoshi is a modern multi-concept restaurant introduced by the award-winning fine Japanese restaurant, Fat Cow. The sleek new outpost finds itself in a conserved colonial mess hall on the tranquil grounds of Sentosa. Here, traditional Japanese flavours are stylishly expressed in three modern dining experiences: ramen; teppanyaki; and omakase. Expect a la carte serves of comforting Wagyu dry ramen ($58) and lobster broth ramen ($88) or enjoy sizzling delights straight from the teppan.

For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for the Teppan-Kaiseki (from $98) where you’ll sit by the gorgeous 12-seater teppan counter. At your service are highly experienced chefs (minimally with over eight years of teppan experience) finessing dishes such as straw-smoked Hokkaido scallops, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu sukiyaki and the irresistible teppan fried garlic rice. For those in search of a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD, there are set lunches that start from just $32 featuring Hide or Setsuma Wagyu.

  • Bars and pubs
  • Wine bars
  • Tanjong Pagar

Located in Duxton lies Kumi Den, a fun and casual booze den that is all about bringing forth low-intervention wines from artisanal small-batch producers around the world. And the brainchild behind this new venture is Joel Lim, one of Singapore’s best sommeliers who has clocked in time at wine institutions including Praelum Wine Bistro, Les Amis, and Park90. Here, the effervescent lad cherry-picks from a plethora of wine options which includes natural wines, orange wines and pét-nats.

In the food department, tasty sharing plates of modern Asian fare interpreted by French cooking techniques are thoughtfully designed to pair with the delicate bubbly. Think fluffy otah stuffed crispy chicken wings ($19), luscious smoked speck (Italian cured smoked meat) curry ($26), and grilled Padron peppers perfumed with Shaoxing wine ($16).

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary European
  • Tanjong Pagar

Enter the stylish sand-washed space of Cuisson, Tanjong Pagar’s latest dining destination that operates at an intersection of using the finest Japanese ingredients expressed with classic French sensibilities. At the helm is Chef Tan Wee Kiat, an experienced chef who has flown under the wing of renowned chefs such as Daniel Boulud and Ivan Brehm. Here, he sets the stage for culinary works of art that honours the produce. From an amuse-bouche of white asparagus royale perfumed with crustacean essences to a lightly grilled abalone and foie gras ‘mille feuille’, expect an intriguing yet tantalising slew of seafood-forward courses (from $98) to come.

  • Restaurants
  • Sandwich shop
  • Marine Parade

The popular bagel shop brings its wood-fired bagels into the trendy neighbourhood of Joo Chiat. The fourth outlet will debut a new space and tease spanking new items that will be featured alongside well-loved favourites. Opening hours remain the status quo where all last orders are taken by 2.30pm in the afternoon. The bagel house also anticipates a potential sell-out situation and as seen from the overwhelming love shown online, that may well be true. So if you’re stoked for a hearty stack, your best bet is to show up bright and early.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Orchard

Located in the chic new grounds of Pullman Orchard, Eden is well and truly a fitting reflection of its own name. First off, the modern Asian restaurant is spruced up with plenty of lush foliage, giving guests the pleasure of dining in a verdant glasshouse sanctuary. In the kitchen, Asian flavours are playfully showcased and expressed with a contemporary touch. 

Think rich satay peanut sauce and a spicy yet creamy Thai coconut curry. The former comes with a juicy grilled lamb rack ($40) while the latter is paired with a generous slab of crispy skin salmon ($32). There is also a showstopping Szechuan T-bone steak ($138) that is perfect for sharing. Two-course lunch sets are available from $35 but the real draw has got to be complimentary parking during those hours.

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Geylang

Joo Chiat’s latest muse, Province, is an intimate eight-seater diner dreamt up by young chef Law Jia Jun. The recent Magic Square (now-defunct incubator restaurant in Portsdown Road) graduate also boasts a tutelage stint at three Michelin-starred Atelier Crenn in San Francisco. And if you’re wondering where exactly this rustic shoebox sanctuary is, it actually hides behind the facade of the buzzy 808 Eating HouseEach evening, Law orchestrates a seasonal tasting menu (from $138) that is steeped in the diversity of Southeast Asian ingredients and flavours. From the conscious championing of regional and local produce to injecting personal anecdotes that inspire his cooking, the young chef shows plenty of promise.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Bakeries
  • Tanjong Pagar

The dawn of 2023 saw the former home-based bakery depart from the cradle of Ang Mo Kio in search of greener pastures. And greener pastures it is as they now find themselves rubbing shoulders with the big names of Amoy Street. Armed with an even bigger kitchen, the bakery is set to debut a wider range of freshly baked goodies. The main highlight is the Sourdough Bombos ($3.80 to $6.50), a take on Italian doughnuts made using a two-year sourdough starter. These indulgent treats are stuffed with toothsome fillings such as vanilla creme brulee, blueberry cheesecake, and roasted garlic mascarpone. Then there are the triple chocolate brownies ($15) that are so fudgy they melt in the mouth. Keep a look out for eye-catching murals of the fat kid, that's where you'll find them.

  • Restaurants
  • Korean
  • City Hall

Korea’s hottest sensation has landed in Singapore and no, we’re not talking about another K-pop darling. Fresh, hot and crispy – these are a few things commonly associated with South Korea’s largest fried chicken chain BHC Chicken. The 108-seater retro-chic restaurant is its first Singaporean outpost and serves up long-standing Korean favourites such as the Bburinkle Chicken, an irresistible variety of cheese, onion and garlic-dusted fried chicken, alongside signatures like the Macho King and Gold King. And that’s not all – the chain goes the extra mile to offer familiar Korean dishes to fortify your meal – think sotteok, kimchi fried rice, tteokbokki and even a comforting samgyetang.

Hot new restaurants and cafes to dine at in April

  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Raffles Place

Ceres Haus finds a nest on a second-floor shophouse on Circular Road. This hidden haven runs an all-day program: cafe by day; wine bar by night. Simply look out for an empty wine bottle hanging by the unassuming entrance and make your way up to a plywood door. What is an absolute contrast from the energetic lane transports you to a calm and safe space. During the day, the coffee menu is pretty minimalist with espresso-based drinks going from $4 and fresh bakes (from $5). The madeleines ($6) are baked upon order, a conscious decision made by owners Sarah and Aloysius to channel their efforts into the finer details in simplicity. Once nightfall, the lights are dimmed and the vibe turns amorous with natural wines available by the glass.

  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Tanjong Pagar

You're likely to find colourful desserts in this joint – after all, Arc En Ciel means rainbow in French. The dreamy French patisserie is dreamt up by chef-owner Jiawen – formerly from Kki Sweets – and draws from her experiences in Paris where she enjoyed her sweet treats in parks. And just like a walk in the park, you'll find raw elements such as wood and stone dotted with potted plants in the calm 25-seater space. There is a tasting set ($30) that comprises three exquisitely made signatures including the standout of the lime-hued Elijah which tastes like the childhood Solero ice cream. Other nostalgic twists see the likes of Yakult-flavoured cheesecakes and a homemade pineapple jam mousse cake. Tea lovers can also opt for the fine tea pairing experience ($15) to complete the toothsome session.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Marine Parade

Tasty Indonesian fare doesn't always need to stick to hard-boiled traditions and Salt & Palm knows just that. This Sydney-based restaurant first found fame with its fun yet contemporary interpretation of Indonesian cuisine. Led by brother and sister Indonesian restauranteurs, Salt & Palm now expands into Singapore in the lively neighbourhood of Joo Chiat. Expect progressive takes on traditional flavours that are bold and complex yet familiar to taste. Think bombastic flavours to start with twists to the Kerupuk, fish cake and bergedil potato cake. Hearty mains also see the same innovative DNA with Balinese babi guling prepared Italian porchetta-style and bebek goreng done French confit-style. The cosy 46-seater space also doubles as a bar with a thoughtful selection of natural and low-intervention wines that complements the exciting menu.

  • Restaurants
  • Japanese
  • Tanjong Pagar

Just like its namesake, Ikkagoyo, a Japanese kaiseki restaurant blooms on Amoy Street. Behind the unassuming entrance lies an intimate wood-toned space that mimics the tranquillity of traditional tea ceremonial houses. At the helm is chef Mitsutaka Sakamoto who boasts over 20 years of kaiseki experience in Japan at top-notch ryokans and restaurants – Hyakurakuso, Sushi Arai and Naruse. The 12-course prix fixe menu ($338) sees the seasoned chef display his flair for finesse and the arts to present haute Japanese cuisine using only peak-season ingredients. 

For drink pairings, Sakamoto personally picks out limited edition Junmai Daiginjo grade sakes such as Noto Arabashiri ($250) from Ishikawa and the fruitier Kokuryu Shizuku ($560) from Fukui.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Steakhouse
  • Bedok

Beef lovers, you’re gonna want to hear about this deal. Singapore’s first halal steakhouse fires up the grill to serve up mouth-watering cuts of A5 Kuroge Wagyu beef hailing from Mie Prefecture. Get straight down to business in this casual diner and pick from three types of Kuroge A5 Wagyu cuts: sirloin ($38), ribeye ($48) and tenderloin ($58), all served in 100-gram format. For groups or those looking to indulge, the Heavenly Meat Board ($198) has got enough melt-in-your-mouth goodness to feed three to four steak lovers.

  • Restaurants
  • Contemporary Asian
  • Geylang

Taking Joo Chiat by storm is chef Eugene Chee with an inventive spate of contemporary Asian plates that honours regional flavours and produce. The casual space brings people together over delicious food that is said to be more fun than fine dining. Bold and punchy flavours take centre stage: think Japanese oysters (from $8) with papaya sauerkraut; robust Buah Keluak Pork Belly ($26); crisped barramundi with garam masala pumpkin puree ($28); and Chee's signature duck fat financiers ($10) layered with velvety chicken liver mousse. The modest drink list showcases local craft beers and a small selection of natural wines available to add a bit of funk to your session.

Advertising
  • Restaurants
  • Latin American
  • Rochor

Mamacitas is a homely mom-and-pop restaurant that serves up hearty Costa Rican fare. The foxy matron behind this folksy operation is chef Cindy Castro Vega and she is committed to serving up a taste of her homeland to anyone who is curious enough to have a go at it. Expect hearty serves of her signature chalupas (from $16.80) and aromatic seafood rice ($26). Or gather round a few hungry pals to tackle the sharing platters ($88) that come piled with fried meat stew, beef and vegetable stew, turmeric onion yellow chicken and plenty more. Close your eyes and you might just feel as though you’re on a coastal vacation in Costa Rica.

Still hungry? Check out these hot spots

Advertising
Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising