The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

What is it? Modern Southeast Asian cuisine integrating Malaysian culinary traditions, by award-winning chef Kevin Wong. 

Why we love it: Chef-owner Kevin Wong bagged the Michelin Guide Young Chef Award in 2023 and his win was well-warranted. Familiar flavours, herbs, and spices native to Malaysia are gracefully weaved into the multi-course Nusantara Menu ($268 per person). Signatures include the Trader’s rice, which showcases rice cultivated by the Lun Bawang tribe in Borneo. The use of seasonal ingredients and sustainably sourced seafood also earned the restaurant a Michelin Green Star – Singapore’s first.

Time Out tip: Opt for a drink pairing (from $88 for the lunch non-alcoholic pairing). The drinks feature interesting local ingredients and are meticulously curated to pair seamlessly with each course.

Address: 7 Fraser St, Duo Galleria, #01-30, Singapore 189356
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 6pm-11pm; Fri-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11pm

What is it? One-Michelin-star modern Korean excellence by Chef Louis Han, with menus crafted based on his journey in South Korea to Abu Dhabi and finally, Singapore. 

Why we love it: After a refresh, Naeum is ready to welcome guests again into its updated space, with elegant design elements inspired by traditional hanok. Chef Louis Han's work at Naeum from 2021 to the present day has culminated in a cuisine he terms 'Contemporary Korean'. While you'll find global influences and ingredients in the menu, each dish is still ultimately rooted in Korean flavours. The signature eight-course tasting menu is priced at $268, while the classic six-course menu ($228) will be available for lunch on Saturdays.

Time Out tip: For a more special experience, book out Hideaway, Naeum's private dining space. Advanced pre-bookings for lunch and dinner are required.

Address: 161 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068615
Opening hours: Mon-Wed 6pm-10.30pm; Thu-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10.30pm

What is it? Contemporary Indian restaurant with creative yet familiar and delicious plates. It earned its second Michelin star in 2022. 

Why we love it: It’s been a long time coming, but Singapore finally has a contemporary Indian restaurant to call its own. Chef Mano Thevar incorporates European culinary techniques into unusual dishes that highlight traditional Indian flavours. The tasting menu ($298 per person) can see anything from pork belly and sambal aioli wrapped in betel nut leaf to chef's signature Mysore spiced lamb rack. Perfectly charred with a medium rare centre and served with spiced condiments and a side of fragrant biryani and raita, it’s no wonder the dish is a beloved classic at Thevar.

Time Out tip: Come hungry – this is one meal that you won’t want to miss any part of. Certain ingredients on the menu switch up with the season, so you’re always in for a pleasant surprise. Do note that the restaurant is also unable to accommodate vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free diets.

Address: 16 Mohamed Sultan Rd, Singapore 238965
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 6pm-11pm; Fri-Sat noon-3pm,  6pm-11pm

What is it? Contemporary Southeast Asian fine-dining set in a luxe yet peaceful and intimate space.

Why we love it: Chef Hafizzul Hashim is a shiny beacon that puts modern Southeast Asian cuisine on the map with his episodic menus, drawing inspiration from pasar malams (night markets), his late grandmother’s recipes, and hidang (a traditional Malay food spread). The dishes are refined and thoughtful, accentuating forgotten indigenous ingredients and ancient cooking techniques from the Malay peninsula’s coastal regions. The restaurant now also offers a la carte menu items on top of tasting menus. 

Time Out tip: Skip lunch if you’re heading down for dinner, as the tasting menu comprises an elaborate 30 dishes inclusive of snacks and the restaurant's wok and grill selection.

Address: 21 Tg Pagar Rd, #01-01/02, Singapore 088444
Opening hours: Tue 6pm-10pm; Wed-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? The Coconut Club welcomes a sister restaurant above its Beach Road digs, focusing on ‘new-gen’ Singaporean cuisine. 

Why we love it: 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 firefly squid, strawberries, and kailan. For mains, our pick is the wok-fried nasi ulam, where herbaceous additions of ulam raja, ginger flower, and laksa leaves make it way too easy to wolf it all down. Tasting menus are priced reasonably at $88 per diner – and will leave you incredibly full.

Time Out tip: The cocktail list sees three exclusive tipples crafted by Side Door’s resident mixologist Bannie Kang. This is where you can sample her signature clarified style in drinks like the Sambal Marg or Pandan Colada.

Address: 269A Beach Rd, Level 2, Singapore 199546
Opening hours: Wed 6pm-10pm; Thu-Sun noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? An elegant, floral-splashed dining room, located along the quiet Portsdown Road.

Why we like it: Romantic ambience aside, the real reason to visit is the cooking by Michelin Young Chef Award 2024 winner Seth Lai, whose dishes feel deeply personal yet surprisingly resonant. His dishes are thoughtful but never needlessly complicated, the flavours clear and the references heartfelt. The current winter menu is a nostalgic journey through Chef's memories of his hometown, Teluk Intan, a small town in Perak, Malaysia. Choose between the three-course ($68 per pax) or five-course lunch ($108 per pax), but for the full experience, you'll want to commit to the eight-course dinner menu ($228 per pax). Highlights include the wintermelon soup, dang gui duck with a crispy marmite glaze, and textured five-grain claypot rice paired with South African abalone.

Time Out tip: Menus change by the season, so check out Ce Soir's website for the latest menu to get a good idea before heading down. 

Address: 5B Portsdown Rd, #01-03, Singapore 139311
Opening hours: Wed-Thu 6.30pm-11pm; noon-3pm, 6.30pm-11pm

What is it? A cosy contemporary restaurant tucked away in a black and white colonial house along Scotts Road.

Why we love it: Iru Den is a well-kept secret among Singapore's epicureans. Chef Javier Low plates up an inventive multi-course menu (from $128) which has since shifted from its strong Japanese focus to fully embracing Taiwanese flavours and ingredients. Think 10-year fermented cai pu, the freshest catch of ama ebi and seafood off the coast of Taiwan, and a hearty sanma claypot near the end of the course.

Time Out tip: Consider the approachable wine pairing option (from $60, three glasses). Chef Javier's wife, Emily, heads the beverage programme with sound picks ranging from classic Old Worlds to experimental sake.

Address: 27 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228222
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 6pm-10.30pm; Fri-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm

What is it? One-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a new expression of Singaporean cuisine.

Why we love it: This truly local restaurant has turned locavore: 80 percent of its menu is made from ingredients sourced from the city's farms and presented in lunch and dinner menus ($208 and $298) that echo Singapore's past, present and future. Chef-owner LG Han left his prestigious career in banking to bring ‘New Singaporean’ cuisine to the table, working with local partners like Ah Hua Kelong and Edible Garden. The constant seasonal changes in produce mean that Labyrinth's menus are dynamic and ever-changing. 

Time Out tip: Inspired by the flavours he grew up with, like his grandmother's cooking, Chef Han's Ang Moh Chicken Rice is a reinterpretation of a hawker classic we all love – and one dish you should definitely be looking forward to.

Address: 8 Raffles Ave, Esplanade Mall, #02 - 23, Singapore 039802
Opening hours: Wed-Thu 6.30pm-11pm; Fri-Sun noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-11pm

What is it? Somma is Chef Mirko Febbrile's (behind the wildly popular Fico) latest partnership with The Lo & Behold Group and a dual-concept dining destination in the trendy New Bahru enclave.

Why we love it: This modern Italian restaurant spans two floors, taking over the space that used to be the Nan Chiau Girls High library. On the top floor sits an intimate 36-seater fine dining area, while the lower floor houses a laidback cocktail and pasta bar. As with Fico, Febbrile brings his Puglian heritage and knowledge to the forefront of the six-course dinner menu ($258). The only difference is that while Fico serves a range of uncomplicated Italian fare ubiquitous to the countryside, Somma dishes out dialled-up and creative renditions of traditional Puglian dishes. 

Time Out tip: Make sure to check out the pasta and cocktail bar one floor down. We recommend ordering the Campari Seltz – it's perfect for whetting the appetite before your meal.

Address: 46 Kim Yam Rd, New Bahru (School Block), #04-02, Singapore 239351
Opening hours: Thu-Fri 6pm-10.30pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10.30pm

What is it? French technique, Japanese sensibility and Southeast Asian flavours come together in a thoughtful tasting menu set inside one of Singapore’s oldest mansions. 

Why we love it: Rather than treading familiar French-Japanese ground, what chef Shusuke Kubota does at Loca Niru is far more thoughtful, and far more compelling. French technique and Japanese sensibility still form the foundation here, but the real spark comes from his reimagination of Southeast Asian flavours in an elegant eight-course tasting menu ($298). And then there's the gorgeous architecture, preserved with its original wooden trusses; the Teochew carvings and decorative mosaics made from porcelain bowls on the mansion’s roof; and Japanese craft details that keep the space feeling distinctly wabi sabi.

Time Out tip: For a new joiner, Loca Niru sits at the same price point as Singapore’s most ambitious fine-dining restaurants, inviting inevitable comparisons. What you’re paying for here is premium Japanese produce, meticulous technique and a level of presentation that’s clearly labour-intensive.

Address: 101 Penang Rd, House of Tan Yeok Nee, #02-01, Singapore 238466
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 6.30pm-11pm

What is it? Na Oh, the Korean restaurant on the third storey of Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre Singapore (HMGICS), is helmed by Chef Corey Lee from Benu in San Francisco.

Why we love it: The last thing you’d expect to see wedged between floors of a car manufacturing facility is probably a restaurant helmed by a three-Michelin-starred chef. Expect a four-course prix fixe menu ($78) here, where items are switched up according to the season. The buckwheat pancake is our favourite, paired with freshly harvested greens from the facility’s in-house smart farm and a delightful vinegary dip. Main courses are typically served in the format of jinjitsang – a traditional Korean meal with one main dish and accompanying banchan (side dishes).

Time Out tip: Since you're already in the far west, why not make a trip out of your visit? Guests can join a free guided Discovery Tour of the building, which includes an experiential smart farm visit, a tasting session of freshly harvested greens and an exhilarating spin around the Skytrack. 

Address: 2 Bulim Ave HMGICS, Level 3, Singapore 649674
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 11.30am-4pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? Chef Rishi Naleendra's deeply personal exploration of self-identity, told through a three-hour dining experience.

Why we love it: Cloudstreet is a pure expression of who Chef Rishi is, from his Sri-Lankan roots, childhood memories growing up in Colombo and watching his dad in the kitchen, and the time he spent at illustrious dining establishments in Australia. The tasting course starting from $248 takes you through grilled oysters swimming in a pool of coconut milk all the way to an underrated bread course that sees rye flour mixed with local stout – best paired with sips of 2008 Clause Preisinger Paradigma to accentuate the bread’s liquorice notes. 

Time Out tip: After your meal, the journey continues at Cirrus, Cloudstreet’s second-floor venue where guests are invited to adjourn for cheeses and dessert. And since dining here is nothing short of a languid affair, lunch is only offered on Fridays and Saturdays.

Address: 84 Amoy St, Singapore 069903
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 6.30pm-10.30pm; Fri-Sat noon-2pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm

What is it? Two-Michelin-starred restaurant by acclaimed chef Kirk Westaway with breathtaking views of the Singapore skyline.

Why we love it: Jaan celebrates its 10th anniversary this year – no easy feat for a fine dining establishment in Singapore. The menu is distinctively British and inspired by Westaway’s hometown in Devon. Even the paintings of fossil cliffs and textured azure carpets are a nod to the picturesque coast where he grew up. No matter the menu you opt for, you'll be treated to Chef Kirk's signature charred leek and potato soup – a comforting bowl of earthy goodness that has gained a serious cult following over the years.  

Time Out tip: Forgo your carb restrictions, because you won’t want to miss the freshly baked dark rye batard roll and crispy sourdough layered bun, served with a luscious quenelle of Devonshire butter with lemon thyme leaves.

Address: 2 Stamford Rd, Level 70, Singapore 178882
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 11.45am-2.30pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm

What is it? Foliage is an intimate 12-seater that's been quietly challenging how we define Singaporean food since 2019.

Why we love it: For now, the experience is intentionally intimate. With just a handful of tables and an open kitchen, the dining room feels less like a restaurant and more like someone’s living room dinner party. The menus, which change with the seasons, weave together nostalgic Singaporean flavours with Japanese ingredients and techniques inspired by the couple’s frequent trips to Japan. The dishes themselves are playful without feeling forced. They include hotaru ika (firefly squid) with a thunder tea–inspired kabu surinagashi, a reimagining the Japanese turnip soup with flavours reminiscent of the Hakka classic. 

Time Out tip: If you can gather enough friends, book the whole restaurant for a group. With just a dozen seats, it turns dinner into something closer to a private chef’s table, which makes the experience a whole lot more fun.

What is it? An intimate omakase-style dining experience at Serangoon Gardens specialising in modern Singaporean dishes. 

Why we love it: Chef Gan Ming Kiat spent time at Candlenut and Goto before opening a pop-up out of his HDB flat in 2017. Now, Mustard Seed is #81 on Asia’s 100 best restaurants list. The menu is rooted in Singaporean flavours and inspired by Japanese culinary techniques. The eight-course tasting menu is dynamic and changes every two months, featuring remakes of national dishes like laksa and rojak.

Time Out tip: This small space has a giant waitlist. Check out their Instagram page to snag last-minute reservations from cancellations.

Address: 75 Brighton Cres, Singapore 559216
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 6pm-10.15pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10.15pm

What is it? The restaurant’s name is a Korean term that refers to dishes paired with alcohol. 

Why we love it: This modern Korean dining concept serves refined small plates in an elegant and cosy space. From an experimental black bean mascarpone cheese spread on sourdough crackers, to nourishing galbi jjim (slow-braised beef short ribs), the food here is a mix of traditional Korean dishes and contemporary interpretations. Other must-try items include the bossam, gochujang cauliflower and abalone gim (seaweed) pasta.

Time Out tip: You’ll see most tables sipping on champagne makgeolli, but you ought to try the mhungmyungju – a well-bodied yet balanced, refined glutinous rice liquor.

Address: 62 Tras St, Singapore 079001
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 6pm-10.30pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10.30pm

What is it? Three-Michelin-starred French fine-dining establishment by Chef Julien Royer. 

Why we love it: Odette needs no further introduction, and no list of the best restaurants in Singapore would be complete without it. Described as honest food with steep respect for ingredients cultivated from Royer’s farming family in France, the food here prides itself on keeping up with the provenance of its produce, while injecting fitting Asian influences ever so often. Starting at $368, a meal will take you through magnificent plates which can feature anything from Kampot pepper-crusted pigeon to Jeju abalone and foie gras. Swing by early before your meal to explore the grounds of the National Gallery, where the restaurant is located.

Time Out tip: The new Temperance Beverage Programme is a good alternative for those who wish to skip wine, offering a line-up of 12 non-alcoholic drinks crafted with seasonal ingredients. 

Address: 1 St Andrew’s Road, National Gallery Singapore, Supreme Court Wing, #01-04, Singapore 178957
Opening hours: Mon 6.30pm-8.15pm; Tue-Sat noon-1.15pm, 6.30pm-8.15pm

What is it? One of the rare Chinese restaurants that offers both Teochew and Cantonese cuisine.

Why we love it: Can’t decide between Teochew or Cantonese cuisine? Have the best of both worlds at San Shu Gong, which is run by a second-generation Teochew chef with over 15 years of experience in luxe hotel chains like The St. Regis. The Teochew cold yellow roe crab marinated with Shaoxing wine ($16 per 100 grams) is a must-order if you enjoy sweet, glistening morsels of crab meat bursting with roe, beautifully deshelled and plated for your convenience. Other table favourites include the pan-fried oyster omelette ($16) with a delightfully crispy underbelly, the deep-fried sea cucumber ($32) for its interesting texture, and the wok-fried cai pu kway teow with homemade XO sauce (from $14).

Time Out tip: The braised whole chicken stuffed with pig stomach ($138) is another crowd favourite. Make sure to order it 24 hours in advance.

Address: 46 Kim Yam Rd, New Bahru, #01-01, Singapore 239351
Opening hours: Mon-Thu noon-2.30pm. 6pm-11pm; Sat-Sun noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm

What is it? After a major glow-up, Cherry Garden at the Mandarin Oriental Singapore returns with a brand-new identity – now known as Cherry Garden by Chef Fei (behind two-Michelin-starred Jiang in Guangzhou).

Why we love it: The bright and airy interiors draw you in immediately. Stone walls and wooden trellises hark back to traditional Chinese courtyards, while crystal-clear window panes overlook a beautifully tended garden. But it's the Cantonese-Teochew dishes here that win our hearts. Chef Fei hails from Chaoshan, Guangdong, so it's no surprise that his signature dish is wok-fried lobster swimming in a tangy broth of basil and pickled mustard greens – ingredients representative of the region. Other highlights include a fiery toss-up of wagyu beef with Sichuan peppercorns and chilli, or for something milder on the palate, the delicate Crucian Carp congee served with an array of condiments.

Time Out tip: Order up an array of dim sum to start – you won't regret it. 

Address: 5 Raffles Ave, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Floor 5, Singapore 039797
Opening hours: Daily noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? Comfort French food within a preserved colonial chapel, inspired by traditional home cooking from chef Julien Royer’s hometown of Auvergne. 

Why we love it: Beyond its elegant interiors and unique locale, Claudine exudes the warmth of homecoming in its food. The crowd-favourite vol-au-vent is a flaky puff pastry filled with creamy veal sweetbreads and woody morel mushrooms, while the signature Claudine Bouillabaisse is a dense and hearty Provençal fish stew with carabinero prawns that feeds up to four. 

Time Out tip: Be expectant for the bread course. Rye sourdough is served with a luxurious Iberico butter – it’s simple but sublime. 

Address: 39C Harding Rd, Singapore 249541
Opening hours: Daily 11.45am-3pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? A bold and progressive take on Indian cooking, housed in a sleek, industrial-chic space.

Why we love it: The Revolver journey reshapes the way you think about Indian food, without diluting the cuisine’s fiery and punchy character. Your best bet is to go all out with the eight-course Experience menu ($199 per person) which takes you through the restaurant’s flame-kissed star dishes. Else, the seven-course Discovery menu ($139 per person) does the trick as well and is more than enough to satiate. Our favourite part about dining here is the kulchette (flatbread) – a proud revolver invention that marries aspects of the Indian kulcha, Turkish pid, and Neapolitan pizza. These are fired up in the tandoor oven, which is also used to give an alluring char to the rest of the dishes.

Time Out tip: The best seats in the house are those at the counter, right in front of the flickering red embers from the Yarra woodfire. And if you’re not a big eater, come by for the two-course set lunch ($38 per person) which is a solid introduction to Revolver’s offerings.

Address: 56 Tras St, Singapore 078995
Opening hours: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 5.45pm-11pm

What is it? We’ve all seen enough East-meets-West concepts in Singapore to be a little wary, but the 'French fun dining' at Les Ducs by Chef Louis Pacquelin (formerly of Clos Pasoh) is a refreshing exception.

Why we love it: Instead of beurre blanc and béarnaise, you’ll find butter chicken curry and prata on the menu. Expect bold flavours and robust sauces at this unassuming bistro – a testament to Pacquelin’s decade-long experience cooking in Asia and his clear understanding of the Singaporean palate. Where his brand of fusion really shines is in the moules marinières, a dish of Bouchot mussels swimming in a punchy murgh makhani (butter chicken) cream. Only that it’s not entirely ‘fusion’, but based on a lesser-known preparation from La Rochelle in southern France that uses saffron and yellow curry. The Angus beef tenderloin with black Kampot pepper sauce is easily our favourite dish, with a gorgeous, rosy-red and perfectly even centre despite the thickness of the slab. And whatever you do, make sure to order the homemade potato wedges on the side. 

Time Out tip: For those who want to linger a little longer after dinner, retreat to the sultry, velvet-clad Madame Claude just upstairs – a cosy cocktail lounge that slings classic tipples and a stellar sugar-free espresso martini ($25).

Address: 8 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069788
Opening hours: Mon-Sat noon-10.30pm

What is it? Chef Björn Frantzén’s first international outpost, and one of the most expensive restaurants in Singapore. 

Why we love it Priced at $580 for a fixed dinner, dining at Zén is no casual affair. But a meal here at this three-Michelin-starred joint is well worth the price tag. The tasting menu takes you through endless courses and canapes featuring Frantzén’s creative approach to Nordic, French and Japanese cuisines. You’ll find plates with ingredients that you’d be hard-pressed to find in any other restaurant in the city or the region, such as pickled baby pine cones or périgord black truffles.

Time Out tip: You need not be an oenophile to enjoy the pairing options, of which Zén offers three kinds – alcoholic beverage pairings ($350), mixed pairings ($300) and non-alcoholic pairings ($250). 

Address: 41 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089855
Opening hours: Tue-Sat noon-5pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm

What is it? Set within a heritage shophouse, Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse is Singapore’s definitive destination for Fiorentina-style steaks. 

Why we love it: Since opening in 2012, Bistecca has become the go-to spot for serious steak lovers in Singapore. It’s also no stranger to international acclaim – in 2024, it was crowned Best Steakhouse in Asia, and in 2025, it returned to the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list, landing at No. 53 among Singapore’s steakhouses, it’s a consistent standout. The undisputed star is the 1.1kg Bistecca alla Fiorentina, featuring pure-bred F1 Australian Wagyu (MBS6), grilled to a perfect crust and blushing centre. The technique is exacting, the flavour intense and deeply satisfying. 

Time Out tip: For a relaxed, casual vibe, grab a spot in the alfresco area, perfect for laidback hangouts with friends. When you’re in the mood for something more intimate, the cosy indoor dining room, with its candlelit ambience and leather booths, sets the scene for a memorable date night or special occasion.

Address: 26 Mohamed Sultan Rd, Singapore 238970
Opening hours: Tue-Thu noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Fri-Sun noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10pm

What is it? A Michelin-starred spot serving elevated versions of Peranakan food in a cushy location at Dempsey Hill.  

Why we love it: While chef-owner Malcolm Lee does innovate with some dishes, it’s in the cooking of the classics where he shines. But in keeping with the cuisine's penchant for borrowing influences from the East and West, the restaurant's dishes are gussied up with premium ingredients. The 'Ah-ma-kase' menus are priced at $108 per person for lunch and $138 for dinner, featuring dishes like fish maw soup with cod fish, blue swimmer crab curry, and udang masak lemak with juicy ang kar sea prawns.

Time Out tip: There's also the option to order from the à la carte menu if you'd like. The chap chye ($26) is a standout because of its simplicity. The vegetables are stewed ’til they achieve the perfect texture – a cross between chewy and melt-in-the-mouth. 

Address: 17a Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249676
Opening hours: Daily noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? One of the rare African restaurants in Singapore, opened by Kurt Wagner, who's also the visionary behind the popular Kafe Utu and Magpie.

Why we love it: You can expect the same air of homecoming and warmth at Tamba, with interiors decked out in rustic decor and thoughtful details. But unlike Kafe Utu’s menu which takes inspiration from across the entire continent, Tamba shines the spotlight on West African food. The six-course set is reasonably priced at $138, with highlights being the tapalapa with goat's milk ricotta and smoked bacon butter; spicy Liberian black-eyed pea soup; woodfire-grilled beef tenderloin and octopus; and of course, the signature Jollof rice with sakura chicken.

Time Out tip: Retreat to the bar counter for drinks. The menu comprises 60 percent African spirits, and the tipples are all inspired by memories of Wagner's brother, Tamba.

Address: 101 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089964
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 6pm-11.30pm

What is it? What started as private dinners among friends eventually grew into one of Singapore’s most celebrated spots for handmade pastas and award-winning pizza.

Why we love it: La Bottega made waves when it clinched a spot on the 50 Top Pizza Asia Pacific list, ranking 19th in 2023 and climbing to 15th in 2024 – a testament to Chef Antonio Miscellaneo’s craftsmanship. It may have missed the cut in 2025, but this establishment remains a fan favourite for a reason. Chef Antonio's signature Newpolitan pizza is a revelation: slow-fermented for 72 hours, then baked to perfection for a crisp, airy crust. The magic doesn’t stop at pizza. Pastas like the orecchiette alla “Norcina”, tossed with sausage, mushrooms, pecorino and parmigiano, are rich, earthy, and deeply satisfying. 

Time Out tip: Order both the Newpolitan and Double Crunch pizzas to compare styles, but don’t skip the pastas. If La Bottega Enoteca is a little out of your budget, check out the wallet-friendly Casa Vostra instead – also by Chef Antonio.

Address: 346 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427596
Opening hours: Mon-Thu 5.30pm-10.30pm; Fri-Sun 11.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm

What is it? One of the two Japanese restaurants in Singapore with two Michelin stars to its name. 

Why we love it: The 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. 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. You're taken through tender morsels of lightly simmered kinki fish, monkfish liver, abalone and the like. But the highlight is undoubtedly the restaurant's perfected shari blend – a mixture of Hitomebore and Sasanishiki grains seasoned with red and white vinegar. 

Time Out tip: While the seafood and shari get the limelight they deserve, you'll be equally impressed with head sommelier Iwabuchi Makoto's impeccable beverage pairings that glide along effortlessly with the dishes.

Address: 9 Raffles Blvd, Millenia Walk, #01-06/07/08, Singapore 039596
Opening hours: Tue-Wed 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-10.30pm; Thu 7pm-10.30pm; Fri-Sun 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-10.30pm

What is it? Former Salted & Hung chef-owner, Drew Nocente, taps into his Italian roots at Cenzo and adds his signature modern Australian flair to the mix.

Why we love it: Across the main dining room is an action-packed open kitchen, and what comes out of it is food that is both thoughtful and fun. There’s plenty to sink your teeth into, from sea bream crudo with caviar and buttermilk, to a range of handmade pastas like the pappardelle with wild boar ragu and the campanelle with slipper lobster, crab and chilli. Find out more about the pasta specials of the day from any of the staff. 

Time Out tip: Make sure to order the tiramisu for dessert – it is one of the best renditions you'll find in Singapore.

Address: 81 Club St, Singapore 069449
Opening hours: Daily noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm

What is it? Award-winning Australian barbecue where everything is grilled – or rather coaxed – over open flames.

Why we love it: Most items on the menu are cooked in special ovens – four-tonne brick kilns that heat up to 700 degrees celsius – designed by chef-owner Dave Pynt. There’s just something incredibly honest about a solid slab of meat cooked over open flames. The flat iron steak topped with bone marrow and burnt onions, and the smoked quail eggs with caviar are items you’ll find on every table. But to leave without chowing down Burnt Ends’ legendary signature burger ($11.99) would be a travesty. 

Time Out tip: Reservations are notoriously hard to snag, but Burnt Ends is well worth the hype and the month-long waiting list, so plan ahead.

Address: 7 Dempsey Rd, #01-02, Singapore 249671
Opening hours: Tue-Wed 6pm-11pm; Thu-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11pm

What is it? An esteemed Cantonese restaurant housed in the cushy St Regis Singapore, helmed by the recently appointed chef Chan Chung Shing. 

Why we love it: Food at Yan Ting defies time – dishes here are age-old Cantonese classics with palatable modern spins. The bird's nest pumpkin soup with crabmeat is simply a must-try, featuring a silky smooth and comforting broth plus a generous serving of collagen-rich bird's nest. Order the steamed leopard coral grouper for the table, too. Each morsel of fish is tender and succulent, and comes doused with a delicate light soy sauce that's not overly salty.

Time Out tip: Yan Ting's Weekend Dim Sum Brunch packages remain popular even after all these years. It includes unlimited servings of bubbly, the restaurant's house wines, beer, and tea (from $168 per person).

Address: 29 Tanglin Rd, The St. Regis Singapore, Floor 1U, Singapore 247912
Opening hours: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat-Sun 10.30am-3pm, 6pm-10.30pm

What is it? A Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, Summer Pavilion has earned the honour for eight consecutive years. It’s known for refined cuisine, elegant presentation and warm service.

Why we love it: Under the helm of Chef Cheung Siu Kong, who’s led the kitchen since 2003, Summer Pavilion delivers refined, modern Cantonese cuisine. Signature dishes include barbecued Iberico pork glazed in honey, steamed vermicelli with Hokkaido king scallops and the standout double-boiled fish maw soup with morel, bamboo pith and chicken. Interiors are sleek yet serene, inspired by Chinese garden pavilions, with hand-painted tableware and six private dining rooms for intimate gatherings. Every detail, from the attentive service to the curated teas by Tea Bone Zen Mind, speaks to the restaurant’s dedication to excellence.

Time Out tip: Go for the Orchid lunch menu (from $138 per person) to try the best of Chef Cheung’s creations, and ask your server for a tea pairing to elevate the experience.

Address: 7 Raffles Ave, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia, Level 3, Singapore 039799
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm

What it is A Nordic twist on classic brasserie fare, set in the historic Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall.

Why we love it Renowned Swedish chef Björn Frantzén reignites the spirit of Europe’s grand dining halls at Brasserie Astoria – think tableside service, flambé trolleys and dessert carts. And head chef Emil Cecil Ess executes Frantzén’s vision perfectly in dishes like the butter-fried Råraka and the Toast Astoria. The former sees vendace roe and crème fraîche atop a bed of crispy Agria potatoes, while the latter is a nod to the traditional Swedish Toast Skagen, featuring prawns, king crab and trout roe. 

Time Out tip Order the whiskey-flambéed beef, which is prepared and fired up by your table. End your meal at the gorgeous bar with Nordic and Asian-inspired cocktails.

Address: 11 Empress Pl, Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall, Singapore 179558
Opening hours: Mon-Thu noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Sat 6pm-10pm

What is it? Locally and internationally lauded French fine dining establishment with three Michelin stars to boot.

Why we love it: There's a reason why Les Amis – which has a legacy of over three decades – is regarded as the fine dining stalwart in Singapore. Helmed by French chef Sébastien Lepinoy, the restaurant sources almost everything from his country of origin. The classic and degustation menus will set you back $365 and $565 respectively, with luxurious dollops of caviar gracing your plates ever so often – think caviar served on petals of Roseval potatoes, or poached egg and watercress coulis paired with turnip and caviar. You'll also be treated to the likes of moral velouté with foie gras and truffle, as well as a delicate sea urchin royale with fennel.

Time Out tip: While you’re there, make sure to pop by the award-winning cellar which houses an impressive 3000 labels of wine.

Address: 1 Scotts Rd, #01 - 16 Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208
Opening hours: Daily noon-2pm, 7pm-9pm

What is it? A well-known Korean barbecue joint that has proven to be extremely popular among Singaporeans, and for very good reason.

Why we love it: Jeju-style BBQ – a rare find in Singapore – is served for dinner. Feast on dry-aged pork, accompanied by a medley of kimchi and condiments such that no two mouthfuls end up tasting the same. Each cut of the pork, from the shoulder to ogyeopsal (five-layer pork belly) and jowl, is expertly grilled right before your eyes. Different pairings of meat and sauces, from barley ssamjang to spring onion kimchi, are served directly to your plate by the dedicated staff. Our favourite bite? Ogyeopsal dunked in an intense Jeju-style fish sauce that comes bubbling on the grill. For lunch, the main draw is Busan-style gukbap (pork and rice soup) that's hearty, comforting and sure to fill you up.

Time Out tip: Reservations are encouraged, though it wouldn't hurt to try your luck for walk-ins. Just be prepared to wait an hour or so, and the team will try to squeeze you in. 

Address: 27 Boon Tat St, #01, Singapore 069623
Opening hours: Daily 11am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-10pm

What is it? One of our favourite yakitori joints in the city is located in the heart of Boat Quay, grilling up perfectly seasoned chicken off-cuts to smoky perfection.

Why we love it: We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to yakitori skewers, but Yakitori Yatagarasu has stepped up the game by using almost all parts of the chicken. It’s nose-to-tail dining in a manner of speaking, but one that has been long respected by traditional Japanese chefs before the practice swarmed all trendy restaurants. Munch on as many sticks of tail as you can muster – these tend to sell out earlier than some of the more popular yakitori items. Some might flinch knowing that just the one skewer is proudly jutted through the rear ends of six chickens, but this is a definite highlight. Equally excellent are the tsukune, shiso pork, and hear us out on this – grilled onigiri. 

Time Out tip: For the best experience, take note of the house rules before you visit. This is, at its core, a drinking place, so make sure to order a round once seated. You'll notice that the regular sodas cost almost as much as a lemon sour. And don't be surprised if you're asked to combine the orders for your group on one phone – it makes it way easier for the kitchen and ensures every single stick is delivered to your table.

Address: 72 Circular Rd, #01-01, Singapore 049426
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 6pm-11pm

What is it? Summer Hill was once tucked away in Sunset Way, but now welcomes guests at Claymore Connect in Orchard. Still, it greets customers like family in its warm and inviting space reminiscent of a quaint French courtyard. 

Why we love it: Our favourite dish – the classic roast chicken ($62) – sounds unassuming, but look past its simple appearance and you'll get why regulars rave about this. Brined for 24 hours then herb-butter roasted, even the chicken breast is fork-tender and uber succulent. It comes served with a housemade chicken demi-glace, though in our view, it's great even on its own. Chef-owner Anthony Yeoh used to helm the kitchen of Bird Bird and Cocotte so you know he knows his way around fried fowl. Make sure to pre-order this in advance.

Time Out tip: The restaurant's unique weekend brunch trolleys are reason enough to visit. It's a refreshing take on the traditional Chinese dim sum trolley, featuring a spread of French comfort food served on a roving trolley. Think unlimited servings of egg cocotte, trout rillettes, duck confit, desserts, and more.

Address: Claymore Connect, 442 Orchard Road, #02-17, Singapore 238879
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 11.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat-Sun 11am-1pm, 1.30pm-3.30pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm

What is it? Hayop, the fine-casual offshoot of the wildly popular Manam in Manila, is Singapore’s love letter to the Philippines.

Why we love it: Here's a place that will impress any Filipino friend – and their Lola too. Despite the fancier setting, you can still expect to run into all the usual suspects of Filipino cuisine – just dialled up a notch. Take the honest plate of House Crispy Sisig for a start, where chopped-up bits of pork jowl and cheek are mixed in a sizzling hot plate. Have this with jasmine rice as it’s usually enjoyed, but for a winning combination, order the stir-fried garlic rice instead. 

Time Out tip: Desserts are a must at Hayop, and if you’re spoilt for choice, you won’t go wrong with the Halo-halo. 

Address: 442 Orchard Rd, Claymore Connect, #02-17, Singapore 238879
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 11.30am-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat 11am-3.30pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm; Sun 11am-3.30pm

What is it? Some of the best steaks in Singapore can be found at this modern steakhouse located along Boon Tat Street. 

Why we love it: Executive Chef Victor Loy aims to serve only the highest quality cuts of steak that boast a gorgeous crust on the outside while retaining their tenderness. Indulge in the Meadesmoore Cut with your partner – a cut of steak between the ribeye and chuck, and taste the different flavour profiles together. Besides the decadent meal, the interior of Meadesmoore features large arched windows, plush couches, and tables with marble tops, creating a comfortable and luxurious dining experience.

Time Out tip: Check out one of the many bars around the Telok Ayer neighbourhood for a nightcap to round off your meal. The Time Out Singapore Bar Guide is a great place to start.

Address: 21A Boon Tat St, Level 2, Singapore 069620
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-10pm

What is it? Our favourite Mexican taqueria in Singapore, which started as an online business in 2019 before its skyrocketing popularity led it to open its first store in Kampong Gelam. Thankfully, it has two locations now in North Bridge Road and New Bahru. 

Why we love it: We're calling it, Huevos has the best birria tacos in town. The beef short rib and brisket are done just right, and the cherry on top is the beef consommé that comes with it for you to dunk your tacos into – it’s a juicy, messy flavour bomb in your mouth. Second on our tier list are the Baha fish tacos, where the soft shell wraps barely manage to encase the hefty parcel of breaded fish. A fiery medley of shredded cabbage, mango salsa and chipotle aioli accompanies it. Approach with caution, as this is spicier than it looks. Also on the menu: a diverse selection of antojitos, including loaded nachos (another must-order) and drinks like horchata (cinnamon rice milk) and tepache (fermented pineapple, jalapenos, ginger and cinnamon) that go beyond the regular sodas.

Time Out tip: Arrive early at their 11am opening time or be prepared to queue. Both the North Bridge flagship and River Valley outlets are equally popular. 

Address: 803 N Bridge Rd, Singapore 198771 and 46 Kim Yam Rd, New Bahru, Singapore 239351
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am-10pm

What is it? Tong Xin Ru Yi is not your regular, run-of-the-mill hotpot joint – it's got plenty of interesting items on its menu, including lesser-seen ingredients like beef tongue and Hokkaido milk beef. 

Why we love it: Nothing beats the comfort of a steaming hotpot on a rainy day, and Tong Xin Ru Yi knows just how to hit the spot. Nestled in the heart of Boat Quay, the ambience here is equal parts cosy and classy, and definitely family-friendly. Its most popular broth is the golden chicken soup ($24), but the spicy rabbit broth ($68) is a surprising favourite among some customers. Beyond your regular meat cuts, there are also less common options like Hokkaido milk beef ($25), where beef slices are soaked in milk for a richer flavour. While your ingredients simmer to perfection, enjoy small bites like BBQ frog legs ($10), scallion pancakes ($5), or handmade dumplings complete with Sichuan sauce (from $6).

Time Out tip: Want to pop open a bottle? There's no corkage fee here, so it's the perfect spot for celebrations. 

Address: 6 Lor Telok, Singapore 049019
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am-10pm

What is it? Premium nasi lemak that’s well worth the hefty price tag.

Why we love it: When a restaurant still draws in daily queues despite charging over $20 for a dish people typically pay $3 for, you know it's doing something right. The signature ayam goreng berempah nasi lemak at The Coconut Club is a faultless example of the classic Malay dish. Rice comes flavoured with coconut milk from a single plantation in Sabak Bernam, Malaysia, and the giant leg of organic chicken that crowns the dish is perfectly spiced and fried. The best part is the crispy rempah crumbs that are tossed over the rice for an added crunch.

Time Out tip: Don’t leave without trying the kueh sampler, featuring an assortment of Malay and Nonya kueh that are handmade fresh daily. 

Address: 269 Beach Rd, Singapore 199546
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 11am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm; Fri-Sun 11am-10.30pm

What is it? A cult-favourite seafood and zi char house in Singapore, serving up zi char classics and chilli crab – Singapore's contested national dish.

Why we love it: KEK manages the usual seafood fare with aplomb, but the brand is more well-known for its range of zi char dishes. One of its homemade specialties is the prawn roll, where crispy beancurd skin is wrapped around minced pork, carrots and prawns, with diced water chestnuts added for a sweet crunch. Other must-orders when you dine here are the moonlight hor fun and coffee pork ribs. 

Time Out tip: If you're there for the crab, be sure to pre-order in advance since it's typically sold out for the walk-in crowd.

Address: 124 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-136, Singapore 150124
Opening hours: Daily 11am-1.45pm, 5pm-10pm

What is it? A Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurant in Tanjong Pagar which was founded in 2016 and featured in the Michelin Guide in 2025.

Why we love it: Fat Prince is officially back. After a rebrand that saw a name change to The Prince, the original Fat Prince, with its unapologetically loud, boisterous atmosphere and bold, soulful dishes, is ready to welcome customers once again. This time, it's brought back its popular Build-It-Kebab section, where diners get to customise their own kebabs, as well as graze on a medley of mezze. It's not a reopening or refresh without new dishes in tow, and Fat Prince has a few to boast of, from the Moroccan chicken tagine to the lamb potterhouse.

Time Out tip: Look out for wallet-friendly feasts like the four-course set lunch for $29, or Fat Prince's Bottomless Brunch with free-flow beverages at $48. The weekday happy hour is equally attractive, with $10 drinks and complimentary mezze from 5pm to 7pm. 

Address: 48 Peck Seah St, Singapore 079317
Opening hours: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sat-Sun noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm

What is it? Hole-in-the-wall joint by chef-owner Peter Smit (previously from Underdog Inn) focusing on grilled seasonal small plates.

Why we love it: The restaurant shares the space with a bak chor mee stall in the day, but by night, it transforms into a buzzy joint packed with people. Here, Smit marries his mastery of whole-animal cooking and his love for the grill. The ever-evolving menu ranges from small to large plates depending on the produce available that day. Must-order snacks include the pig head nuggets with white anchovy, and the smoked mackerel, which sits atop layers of addictive fried chicken terrine.

Time Out tip: If you're indecisive, the Dirty Feast menu is a fuss-free option that takes you through the kitchen’s best in one dinner sitting. Check out the adjacent cocktail bar Dirty Sips too, for quality cocktails that are as unique as they are delish.

Address: 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19, Singapore 162078
Opening hours: Mon 5pm-midnight; Tue-Sat 3pm-midnight 

What is it? A charming restaurant along Amoy Street which has built up quite a reputation as the place to enjoy Western plates with a Sichuan twist, and vice versa.

Why we love it: Inspired by the laidback teahouses and landscapes of Chengdu, the restaurant’s elegant, eclectic design remains untouched even close to a decade later, and its gorgeous skylight is still our favourite part of the space. Head Chef Eugene See switches things up in a refreshed menu which showcases creations that are lighter on the palate, to balance out the bold and robust flavours on the current menu.

Time Out tip: Birds of a Feather offers several sharing menus, with the latest being the An Yi sharing menu ($103 per person) for diners who want to experience the restaurant’s house specialties in one sitting. And if you’re around the area in the day, business lunch sets are priced reasonably at $33.90 while happy hour runs from noon to 7pm on weekdays with two cocktails going at $28.

Address: 115 Amoy St, #01-01, Singapore 069935
Opening hours: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight; Sun noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm

What is it? JB Ah Meng is a Bib Gourmand awardee, best known for its wok-kissed dishes and frequented by a handful of celebrity chefs.

Why we love it: The restaurant’s regulars include chefs Justin Quek (Justin Flavours of Asia), Andrew Walsh (Cure, Kee’s and Tilly’s), and Jason Tan (Corner House). Like them, the crowds keep coming back for its unbeatable zi char dishes like the san lou bee hoon (from $8). It appears simple enough, but the pancake-resembling seafood noodle dish is the joint’s star. Charred and crisp on the outside but soft on the inside, each strand of bee hoon is coated with a smoky wok hei.

Time Out tip: JB Ah Meng also does a killer rendition of white pepper crab (market price) – the dish is only mildly spicy and lets the natural sweetness of the crustacean shine.

Address: 534 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389490
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5pm-2am; Sun 5pm-1.30am