Claudine
Photograph: Claudine
Photograph: Claudine

The most romantic restaurants in Singapore

For date nights, anniversaries, big romantic gestures, and everything in between

Written by: Adira Chow
Contributor: Xiao Qing Wan
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There's a time for dining with big groups and a time for eating on a budget, but when you're planning for an anniversary or a romantic date with your special someone, it's best to take it up a notch with a proper sit-down dinner with all the trimmings. Here are our picks of the best romantically lit, value-for-money restaurants to wine and dine in Singapore. Let's get into the mood for love. 


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

50 most romantic restaurants in Singapore

  • French
  • Tanglin

Located in a preserved colonial chapel along the lush grounds of Dempsey Hill, Claudine sets the scene for an enchanting getaway from city life with your date. Think stained glass windows, plush velvet banquettes, soft greens and pinks, and high ceilings. You’ll be greeted with a classic range of comfort French cooking here by Chef Julien Royer who also co-owns the three-Michelin-starred Odette. Begin your meal with the exceptional homemade sourdough paired with addictive Iberico butter, before tucking into mains like the Vol-Au-Vent ($58) – a flaky puff pastry filled with creamy veal sweetbreads and woody morel mushrooms, or the Claudine Bouillabaisse ($198) – a dense and hearty fish stew from Provence with carabinero prawns. 

Afterwards Snap some keepsake photos with the adorable red vintage food truck at the restaurant’s terrace before strolling around the quiet grounds of Dempsey Hill.

  • Raffles Place

La Brasserie’s floor-to-ceiling windows open up toward the gorgeous Marina Bay waterfront, presenting a view that’s sure to score you some points with your date. With plush interiors that blend modern elegance with a touch of classic European charm, the French restaurant sets the scene for a romantic evening ahead. The kitchen dishes out French bistro fare with options of three ($78) or four-course ($98) set dinners. To start, choose between the Angus beef tartare, foie gras, or a seafood bouillabaisse with sea bass and crab. For mains, savour the richness of a beef ribeye when you order the côte de boeuf, or for something different, opt for the succulent Lumina lamb with black garlic, sherry and shallots, or the toothfish that’s doused in a creamy anchovy carrot velouté. End the meal with a sweet apple tarte tatin, or a traditional crème brulée with vanilla gelato. Book here.

Afterwards Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade just outside the restaurant and soak in the views of the bay area. It’s a less crowded spot compared to the other boardwalks along Marina Bay.

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  • French
  • Tanglin

Idyllic garden views unobstructed by concrete buildings surround you when you step into Roia, the French restaurant in the heart of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Grab a seat next to the windows for an evening of heartfelt conversations away from the noise of the crowd. Expect to see artistic creations by Chef Priyam Chatterjee who paints the plates with vibrant colours and refreshing flavours inspired by the gardens itself. The six ($188) and eight ($288) course menus feature dishes like Corner’s Flowers, where rare Japanese Ginpo fish is paired with smoked almonds, beetroot extraction and yuzu calamansi. Another highlight is Fungi and Corner, which spotlights seasonal mushrooms that sit atop a bed of potato rosti and a warm mushroom velouté.

Afterwards Take a languid walk and explore the Palm Valley and Symphony Lake or catch a glimpse of the gardens’ resident swans at Swan Lake.

  • City Hall

Surprise your partner by taking them to this charming date spot set within the historic CHIJMES. The clean decor and softly lit interiors at Dew by Whitegrass create a comfortable and inviting space, perfect for a cosy date night without all the fuss. Innovative European small plates with Asian flourishes are the focus here, alongside a careful curation of 65 sake labels originating from Japan’s various prefectures. The molten brie ($28) makes for a delightful starter – it’s served with a sweet and tangy grapefruit jam and chimichurri sauce with crispy crostini for a tinge of acid and texture. And for a refreshing twist on pasta, opt for the zesty yuzu kosho seaweed tagliatelle ($20), topped with ikura and your choice of salmon or prosciutto. Round it all off with Dew’s signature cocktail – the Whitegrass Little Tokyo, which is an infusion of sake, yuzushu and aperol.  

Afterwards Head to Hvala at CHIJMES, a stylish teahouse serving Japanese tea and desserts.

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  • Italian
  • Bedok

Fico is Singapore’s answer to a romantic Italian coastal escape. Breezy holiday vibes are strong at this beachfront establishment, for couples looking for a more casual setting for date nights. The food is an assemblage of familiar Italian dishes, starting with the signature baked foccacina (from $18) that pairs excellently with San Marzano tomatoes, sweet Tropea onions, or fresh buffalo mozzarella for the cheese fanatics. Small plates with seasonal ingredients are also available, with several unmissable ones being the Cardoncelli mushrooms ($21) and charred red peppers with Cantabrico anchovies ($18). Thereafter, get ready to indulge in freshly made pasta ($23) prepared before your eyes by the live pasta bar, with lesser seen variations like mafaldine and orecchiette on the menu. 

Afterwards End the evening with a scenic stroll along East Coast Park or plop down on the benches near the beach to hear the sound of crashing waves.

  • Contemporary European
  • Raffles Place

Glimmering waterfront views overlooking the Singapore River are promised at Matera, thanks to its prime location at the Fullerton Waterboat House. But besides the views and your date of course, the food is equally stunning – traditional Italian cuisine meets Asian flavours in Chef Bjoern Alexander’s stellar execution of modern Italian fare. Combinations like ravioli made from dumpling skin and bucatini pasta with spicy Asian dried scallops take the centre stage. The pièce de résistance goes to Chef Bjoern’s tribute to the carabinero prawn, minimally presented as a whole prawn together with prawn toast and XO sauce to honour the quality of the produce. 

Afterwards Head towards the Merlion Park for a closer view of the bay, or cross the Anderson Bridge for a leisurely stroll along the Singapore River.

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  • Italian
  • Raffles Place

When it comes to dates, first impressions count. And Caffe Fernet easily impresses with its gorgeous decor and even more impressive view. The shiny long bar beckons with warm tones of brown, brick red and gold, and the restaurant section overlooks the glistening Marina Bay. Don't be surprised if you see people popping the question – they might be drunk on love or Caffe Fernet's attractive happy hour promotions, paired with hearty modern Italian fare like cacio e pepe and veal meatballs.

Afterwards Walk off the booze along the bay and perhaps end up at the Esplanade rooftop to sneak in a little smooch.

  • Spanish
  • Bukit Merah

The statuesque colonial building is home to three dining concepts, each offering a different vibe. Those on a first date can head to Wildseed Café, where cakes and all-day brunch at the courtyard keep things breezy and casual. Turn up the charm at 1918 Heritage Bar, a pintxos bar where you can snack on all manner of Basque-style bites, or dial up the romance at Una on the second floor. The rich timber floors, white tablecloths and warm pendant lights help set the mood as you share a pan of paella and sides.

Afterwards Go on a romantic stroll around Telok Blangah Hill Park towards Henderson Waves, which happens to be one of the best make-out spots in Singapore.

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  • Seafood
  • Sentosa

Ocean Restaurant is Singapore’s only underwater restaurant and unanimously one of the hottest dining tickets in town. Love is in the air – or under the sea, if you may – as you marvel at 40,000 majestic marine animals gracefully gliding around in the world’s largest oceanarium. Make your date feel extra special when you book the private room, away from prying eyes. The one-way glass mirror-like panels ensure total privacy for an intimate dining experience.

Afterwards If you can't get enough of the sea life, explore the aquarium or enjoy a romantic stroll along the boardwalk towards Vivocity.

  • Marina Bay

Housed in Gardens by the Bay’s climate-controlled Flower Dome, Marguerite has chilly spring temperatures like that of Europe – giving you the perfect excuse to cosy up with your date. Here's a meal with deceptively creative presentations and intriguing flavours, courtesy of chef-owner Michael Wilson. Whenever you're not lost in the eyes of your significant other, the open-concept kitchen islands allow you to marvel at the chefs at work.

Afterwards Enjoy complimentary access to the Flower Dome and cross the bridge over to Marina Bay Sands for drinks or even party it up on the roof at CÉ LA VI.

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  • Tanjong Pagar

This modern Indian restaurant is dressed like a movie set, and you and your dining partner are the main characters. Explore the space’s four thematic sections, from the salon-inspired Officer’s Club to the Old Railway Room. Our favourite? The Elephant Room, with cosy dining alcoves designed with the blue room of the Udaipur City Palace in mind.

Afterwards Grab some sweet treats to round off the night from Apiary.

  • Italian
  • Chinatown

Bar Cicheti has all the trappings of a romantic restaurant: a dark dining room lit by a semicircle of pendant lightbulbs, gorgeous floral arrangements that perfume the space, and pasta to recreate that iconic Lady and the Tramp scene. Pasta noodles are freshly made daily and found in dishes like the blue swimmer crab tagliolini ($29). Fans of natural wines are spoilt for choice too. Sommelier Ronald Kamiyama is able to make pairing recommendations depending on your order, or feel free to split a bottle between the two of you.

Afterwards End your date on a sweet note with ice cream from Apiary, a small café that does the simple flavours right.

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  • Chinatown

Yes, it’s a little gimmicky – having a meal in total darkness without knowing what’s going into your mouth. But once you give in to the experience of dining in the dark, dinner at NOX proves to be a rather romantic but enlightening rollercoaster ride of a meal. Focus your naturally heightened senses of taste and smell on the food without spoiling the surprise – it’s for the most part delicious. While you’re at it, a little footsie never hurt nobody.

Afterwards While you ease your vision back, perhaps stay for a tipple or two at the sleek and sexy bar just down below.

  • French
  • Buona Vista

All things floral and botanical. There's an obvious bohemian theme for this semi-fine-dining restaurant tucked away in sleepy Portsdown. Think dried and preserved flowers in almost every corner and Beni Ourain rugs laid across the entrance cushioning your every step – Stevie Nicks and Janis Joplin would have dined here. The ethereal ambience is further amplified by Haute French cuisine using fresh seasonal produce. 

Afterwards Head out to the garden backyard for a nice heart-to-heart chat under the stars. It also makes for a great photo spot.

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  • Orchard

FLNT is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the city from the comfort of your seat – a captivating view to impress your dinner date. Nikkei cuisine is the focus here, and despite its ties to Japanese food, it is lesser known in Singapore. Nikkei is the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian foods and came about when Japanese immigrants settled in Peru in the 18th century. The result: unique fusion dishes, such as the traditional Peruvian ceviche ($28) made with tuna akami and Peruvian anticucho chicken ($18) prepared like the grilled skewers commonly found in Japanese izakayas. 

Afterwards Stay for the stunning night views, and switch things up by exploring the whole of 1-ATICO.

  • Grills
  • City Hall

Feel on top of the world at Skai. Nestled on the 70th floor of the Swissotel the Stamford, the restaurant’s sweeping views of the Civic District is reason enough for a visit. Break the ice at the bar before heading over to the plush sofas for a meal. Order up a series of sharing plates but beef things up with the main draw at Skai: steak.

Afterwards Make your way down to Anti:Dote for cocktails with a Korean twist.

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  • Italian
  • Raffles Place

Seal the deal by bringing your date to Monti at Fullerton Pavilion with a breathtaking view of Marina Bay. Tugboats sail right past your table as you tuck into traditional Italian fare like the Acquerello Risotto ($42), finished tableside in a wheel of Parmesan and topped with freshly shaved black truffle.

Afterwards Make your way up to the alfresco rooftop and have a heart-to-heart conversation over wine and the evening breeze.

  • Brasseries
  • City Hall

There’s something about a fancy restaurant that gets you in the mood for love. Brasserie Astoria fosters a dreamy atmosphere with intimate booth seats and an overhead light above each table to make you and your partner feel like the protagonists in a romance film. Alongside the cosy interior, the menu features a variety of Nordic-inspired dishes from all over the world. Try the butter-fried Råraka ($36), which is crispy potatoes paired with vendace roe, chives, crème fraîche, red onion, and lemon, or share the whiskey flambéed beef (from $72) and watch the fire show in awe as the chefs prepare the meat by your table.

Afterwards Head over to Smoke and Mirrors and have a drink inspired by artworks and iconic spaces in Singapore.

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  • Italian
  • City Hall

There's nothing more romantic than dining alongside sprawling views over the Padang lawn and the background of Marina Bay. Day or night, the lofty restaurant sets the tone as the ideal spot to impress your significant other. Here, chef Daniele Sperindio artfully presents episodic menus (from $328) inspired by his Ligurian roots with plates that are equally intricate and evocative. Sperindio is also all about interactivity – you’ll find tastefully orchestrated story-telling segments peppered with deeply personal anecdotes as you segue into the following courses. And don't sleep on the signature 32-yolk Taglierini, it is to die for.

Afterwards Walk across the Padang for a breezy stroll by the Marina Bay and catch the light show.

  • Cocktail bars
  • Tanjong Pagar

The former rathskeller of Burger Bar New York isn't much of a Nebraskan truckstop anymore. Instead, this dimly lit New York tavern now makes for an adventurous date spot. Test your limits with nose-to-tail fare by Chef Pete Smit – think duck-liver parfaits, pig head scrumpets and other atypical eats. But of course, approachable fire-kissed plates and smoked meats still make up most of the menu if things ever get too squeamish. And definitely ask for a side of bone-marrow mash ($16) – you can thank us later. 

Afterwards Migrate to the bar counter and sip on a progressive range of exciting draft cocktails (from $18). The bar runs in the same bloodline as its sister concepts Sago House and Low Tide so you know the drinks are solid.

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  • Italian
  • Raffles Place

The Italian restaurant is already known for its stunning views of the Marina Bay from the 43rd floor of the Ocean Financial Centre. And it hopes to elevate your dining experience further with refined regional Italian dishes from Executive Chef Andrea De Paola – a young cook that has worked in big-name kitchens, including one-Michelin-starred Braci. Here, he taps on inspiration from his hometown in Naples and seeks to whisk your tastebuds off to the idyllic city for the evening.

Afterwards Head outside to its open-air rooftop bar for drinks with a view.

  • Spanish
  • Tanjong Pagar
  • price 2 of 4

Stepping into Restaurant Gaig feels like entering someone’s home. Only, the warm dining space belongs to Carles Gaig, a well-loved figure of Catalan cuisine. You’ll find quiet nooks and individual dining enclaves, each divided by wood shelvings and other homely furnishings that’ll make for a charming and low-key evening. 

Afterwards Check out Platform along Amoy Street for approachable low-alcohol cocktails and plush cosy vibes.

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  • Japanese
  • Marina Bay

This modern-Japanese dinner restaurant has everything you desire for a perfect date night. Just check out the number of tagged pictures on social media of couples in front of the gigantic two-and-a-half-metre-tall Japanese bell that overlooks a footbridge and reflecting pool – enough said. The wide variety of food ensures your other half doesn't go hungry watching you eat. Think sushi and sashimi to robatayaki and tempura.

Afterwards Shake off the calories and dance the night away in the dazzling lights of Singapore’s biggest nightclub, Marquee.

  • Italian
  • Raffles Place

Publico Ristorante stands out from the many riverside eateries along Robertson Quay with its charming interior and hearty creations. It's the picture perfect Italian escape  think granite floors laid in bold geometric patterns that call to mind the country’s many piazzas. Grab a seat outdoors and soak in the breeze. There, dramatic green walls double up as vertical gardens, and furniture set in neutral hues help channel coastal vibes. The indoor area is just as attractive, with warm lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows that open out to the riverside terrace.

Afterwards Stroll along the river, or perhaps make a pitstop to Tap for a wide variety of affordable craft beers. 

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  • Cafés
  • City Hall

A blooming wonderland nestled within Fort Canning Park offers a floral-themed space that is reminiscent of chic Parisian cafés. Grab a seat at the pet-friendly alfresco terrace under the shade of trees, or head indoors and dine in the company of lush flora and fauna. When surrounded by that many pretty sights, it's hard not to feel like the main character in a romantic movie.

Afterwards Snap a picture together at the park's iconic spiral staircase or visit the Sang Nila Utama Garden.

  • Seletar
  • price 3 of 4

When it comes to romantic meals, it's always important to pick a place with good lighting and good food. The Summerhouse excels on both counts. It sources ingredients from local, Malaysian and Australian farms and growers and celebrates farm-to-table dining. Dine in the spacious dining hall of the colonial bungalow or reserve one of the three air-conditioned domes strategically placed in the garden. They fit up to six guests with a minimum spend of $300 and are themed in different styles. We can't think of a more romantic place to pop the question.

Afterwards Stick around for house pours and wine or head to the nearby Wheeler's Estate for ice cold beer and some live music.

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  • Marina Bay

Check out the sexy, elegant Mott 32 at Marina Bay Sands. Expect the same opulent touches the restaurant is famous for – from the stunning interior designed by starchitect Joyce Wang, to the Mod-Chinese menu. Munch on the shredded Peking duck spring roll ($12 for three), or sip on the Asian-inspired Fujian Negroni ($24) shaken with ginseng, lapsang souchong tea, and Sichuan pepper. But before you head down, remember to pre-order the iconic Peking duck ($148) that’s marinated for over 48 hours and smoked over applewood to earn a glistening char.

Afterwards A romantic stroll along the Marina Bay area is a must.

  • Tanjong Pagar

From the moment you step foot into Cloudstreet, the seductive painting of a woman in a state of undress beckons you towards the dining room. The cavernous space is dark, sensual and lush – decked out in magnificent floral arrangements and an eclectic mix of furniture, all armed to charm. The best seats in the house are by the counter overlooking the open kitchen, where you and your date can watch as the chefs sautée, grill and plate dishes like betel-leaf wrapped oysters, lamb saddle and young jackfruit as well as a stout and liquorice buns.

Afterwards Bars along Amoy Street are in no short supply. Walk down the road and look out for the neon pink sign that reads ‘Psychic’. It’s not a Tarot reader but Employees Only, one of the most exciting cocktail bars in the city.

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  • Contemporary European
  • Bukit Merah

Located 100m above sea level, grab a cable car ride up to Dusk and take in panoramic views of the Harbourfront area and Sentosa as you watch the sunset. Snap pictures under the evening glow as you tuck into an indulgent menu. We recommend the char-grilled prime beef ($98) served with red wine sauce that’s meant for two.

Afterwards While you’re at the peak, seek out the Poland’s Bells of Happiness to ring in joy and fortune as a couple. 

  • Spanish
  • Chinatown

Go on a trip to the sunny coast of Barcelona at Olivia Restaurant & Lounge. The bright and airy shophouse space along Keong Saik Road with accents of cerulean blue, sand-hued rope chairs and exposed brick walls look brilliant both in the day and at night. The menu is perfect for sharing with the likes of Ibérico ham croquettes ($16), confit onion and codfish Spanish omelette ($32) and black rice with grilled Mediterranean red prawns ($65).

Afterwards You’ll definitely want to save room for Olivia’s creamy homemade cheesecake ($15) but if you still have room for more, take a couple steps down to Papa Doble for a digestif.

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  • Raffles Place

Lumo – which means "light" in the constructed language of Esperanto – boasts a novel cocktail programme from low ABV concoctions to those that will have you stumbling out the door. Other highlights include sharing plates with glistening meats straight from the wood-fire grill, and a fun, convivial atmosphere peppered with American rock classics from the noughties. This one's for casual dates where you can just let loose and enjoy.

Afterwards Have the raved pistachio gelato from Dopa Dopa Creamery and take a romantic walk down the Singapore River.

  • Contemporary Asian
  • Tanglin

Crystal chandeliers, plush velvet armchairs and luxurious silken wallpaper elevate the dining room of Siri House – a multi-concept venue that also houses a condominium showflat, art gallery and retail corner. The food menu is thankfully more straight forward, with elevated comfort food by chef Ming Tan taking centre stage. Think deep-fried Hasselback potatoes smothered in mala mayo ($16) and pappardelle ($33) tossed in a prawn and lobster head bisque.

Afterwards Take a romantic stroll around the Dempsey enclave. 

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  • Swedish
  • Outram

Fair warning, a meal at Zén is going to cost you, so you best start saving up if you’re planning a birthday or anniversary blowout. Once you get over the sticker shock of its $580 menu, you'll find that dinner here is actually money well spent. You’re taken on a journey from the first floor of this charming house on Bukit Pasoh to the third, savouring snacks, exquisite mains and petit fours along the way. Think of it as a four-hour retreat to a cabin in Sweden where the food is exceptional.

Afterwards If you can still manage, roll out the restaurant and into Live Twice, which is open till late.

  • Burgers
  • Chinatown

Looking for someone who's more fun than high-maintenance? Watch them eat a burger. Three Buns offers an extensive selection of burger-and-the-works options, and plenty of quirky art to talk about between mouthfuls. When you're done, bring the conversation upstairs to the rooftop garden for potent tiki drinks among lights and shophouse rooftops. 

Afterwards There's a door at level 3. Push it open and uncover Studio 1939.

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  • Tanjong Pagar

This is a great restaurant to keep returning to for date night as no two meals at Terra are exactly the same – even though you can request for your favourite dishes in advance. Chef-owner Seita Nakahara regularly travels to Japan to source for new ingredients. As such, the Tokyo-Italian omakase sets are changed seasonally depending on what arrives in the kitchen that day. Don’t confuse what you’ll be eating with fusion food as 'Tokyo-Italian' simply refers to authentic Italian dishes that are made from the best Japanese produce available.

Afterwards Hop over to Junior, a small pocket bar that seats a maximum of 12 people – reservations mandatory.

  • Marina Bay

Dim the lights. No, literally. The eponymous one-Michelin-starred steakhouse knows how to keep things classy. And you go to CUT for one reason and one reason only: the steaks. Grilled over hardwood and charcoal, the hunks of beef come from a menagerie of sources – mainly from the USA, Australia and Japan – and are mighty impressive. Forget about the calories and go with the Peewee potatoes ($18) when asked about the sides. Crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these garlic aioli-laced spuds should come with a warning label – extremely addictive!

Afterwards In the mood for drinks? Stick around and pick out a lip-smacking bottle of red. Go with Wolfgang's very own Cabernet Sauvignon where each balanced sip comes with lush expressions of blueberry and toasted oak. Though, you really should also pair it with your steaks.

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  • Steakhouse
  • Tanjong Pagar

Some of the best steaks in Singapore can be found at this modern steakhouse located along Boon Tat Street. Executive Chef Victor Loy aims to serve only the highest quality cuts of steak that boast a gorgeous crust on the outside while retaining its tenderness. Indulge in the Meadesmoore Cut ($220) 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.

Afterwards Walk over to White Shades for dessert at the ice cream parlour on the first floor, or head upstairs and enjoy bespoke craft cocktails in a cosy booth with your partner.

  • Chinese
  • Chinatown

Got a date who appreciates things with a little bit of heat? The botanical Birds of a Feather might shout romance but wait till you feast on the Western dishes with a Sichuan twist. Inspired by the teahouses of Chengdu, the place is the perfect spot for a quiet lunch or dinner and getting to know each other. And there's plenty to talk about from the delicious chewy yam noodles in Good Slime Shine ($26). But if spicy food makes you work up too much of a sweat, save this spot for when you're about five dates in.

Afterwards You're at Amoy, home to some of Singapore's best bars. Try out ant cocktails at Native with your date or try to locate the back alley Underdog Inn for some progressive cocktails on tap.

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  • Middle Eastern
  • Raffles Place

You won't need a plane ticket to visit Tel Aviv. But you'll have to locate the clandestine lift lobby of Aniba, a modern Middle Eastern restaurant by the same folks behind the wildly successful Miznon. The effortlessly sexy space will quickly win you over while you embark on a gastronomic journey across Middle Eastern flavours expressed through European sensibilities. Think fresh minced hamachi sandwiched between slices of juicy watermelon, smoked trout donuts flavoured with Medjool dates, and king amberjack with a tzatziki panna cotta. 

Afterwards Retreat to the bar and soak up the amorous vibes with sophisticated tipples or take a stroll along Boat Quay.

  • Indian
  • Chinatown

Welcome to the enchanting lair of Vikramjit Roy, an acclaimed chef who worked under the wing of Japanese Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. This intimate 32-seater restaurant in Keong Saik is a love letter to India expressed through a contemporary lens where India’s food cultures and Japan’s culinary arts intersect. The menu whisks lovers away on a poetic journey with umami-forward flavours and an emphasis on fiery heat executed with both intention and restraint.

Afterwards Head upstairs to Parliament for a cheeky nightcap and jive to the disco beat until the clock strikes midnight.

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  • Italian
  • Tanjong Pagar

You won't have to kiss a mobster's hands to get into this classy joint. But you might want to dust off the leather jacket and put on a pinky ring. After all, this Italian restaurant is all about letting you and your partner into the lavish lifestyles of the Gambino crime family in their prime. With marbled mezzanine floors, lush velvet seats and shimmering gold metal detailing, it is unapologetically luxurious. Enjoy hearty Italian plates or work through the storied cocktails designed to spotlight John Gotti's climb to power in the Gambino crime family. Either way, the fine Italian hospitality will make you and your date feel right at home.

Afterwards Jaunt up Ann Siang Hill and explore the back alleys of the buzzy enclave.

  • Contemporary Asian
  • Tanjong Pagar

This cavernous 36-seater fine dining restaurant is all but casual. Natural light fills the ecru-clad dining hall, revealing the open kitchen where chefs perform. There are also eye-catching artworks by Dutch artist Peter Gentenaar floating just beneath the high glass ceilings. With the right company, a tantalising four-hour course meal will end in just two shakes of a lamb's tail.

Afterwards Take a stroll under the moonlight along Duxton Road, it helps you digest all that food a little faster.

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  • Italian
  • River Valley

This decade-old Tuscan steakhouse still got the chops. Slide into a sexy red leather booth and experience unmatched, intimate dining by the candlelight with impeccable hospitality. Expect nothing short of heavenly steaks, after all, you're gallivanting in the 13th best steakhouse in the world. Of course, put in an order for a Florentina steak. But here's where you'll look like an expert and impress your date – look out for the seasonal Japanese Pumpkin Agnolotti. Think sweet luscious pumpkin contrasted with sharp gorgonzola piccante, all encased in al-dente agnolotti. We're not salivating, you are.

Afterwards Dash across the street and check out Revival, a new loft bar with alluring mid-century modern interiors run by the same people behind Barbary Coast.

  • Chinese
  • City Hall

Housed in The NCO Club, Madame Fan is a sexy Chinese restaurant by Alan Yau, the restaurateur behind the Wagamama brand in the United Kingdom. Here, traditional, comforting flavours of the cuisine come presented in a sleek, stylish environment. The cabaret-inspired space comes decorated with sensual touches – intimate table settings, plush carpet, and romantic lighting. The place to be for all things hot and sensual.

Afterwards Take a breezy short walk to CHIJMES and enjoy a sustainable cocktail at Analogue.

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  • French
  • Tanjong Pagar

This is as close as you'll get to a romantic Parisian bistro. Chef Frederic Colin's kitted out his long shophouse unit with Art Nouveau posters, rattan chairs, cobblestone floors and a vintage cooker his grandmother nurtured the family with. To carry the experience, elegantly cut your way through Croque Monsieurs and Madames, or a tartine in between sips of one of the many house wines, eaux de vie and pastis. 

Afterwards Walk off the hearty meal in the vibrant streets of Tanjong Pagar towards Amara Hotel where you can continue the amorous evening at Jigger and Pony – one of the best bars in Asia. 

  • Italian
  • Newton

Buona Terra’s vibe is as intimate as it gets. Getting to the restaurant is part of the charm: it is housed in the quiet colonial-era bungalows of Chateau TCC along Scotts Road. Inside, the small, cosy interior makes it the perfect setting to focus on your date, and the food. Share a toast with its impressive wine list, then tuck into a winning dinner that spotlights the best of Italian flavours. 

Afterwards Take a walk down Orchard Road and marvel at the city lights.

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  • Contemporary Asian
  • Newton

A well-kept secret among Singapore’s epicureans, Iru Den is a contemporary restaurant hidden in a black and white colonial house along Scotts Road. Once you’re in, the warmth of the sleek wooden counter grounds you and sets the stage for the open-concept kitchen. Witness the action of hot coals searing pieces of seafood, the masterful grilling of meats and vegetables, and the elegant plating sequence that adds the finishing touches to what you’re about to eat. Helming the kitchen are Chef Javier Low and his young team of local chefs, who plate up an inventive multi-course menu (from $128) that celebrates the best seasonal produce from Japan and Taiwan.

Afterwards Elope to the ultra-luxe Bar Kakure for top-notch Japanese cocktails to end off the night.

  • Californian
  • Raffles Place

Rosemead is set in the grand Quadrant at Cecil for communions over modern Californian fine–dining. Expect lofty ceilings in a cavernous dining room finished with earthy wood tones, cushy furnishings, and sturdy tables exuding the luxuries of a Californian country retreat. It is bustling during the lunch hours amongst the suits but come nightfall, this place transforms into a lover's paradise. Be warned, it is going to cost you. But we'd all agree that it is the open-hearth kitchen with its open flames and embers that keep the evening's romance very much alive.

Afterwards Head upstairs to the rum-focused bar of Sugarhall where the ceilings are designed to look just like the ones inside a Rolls-Royce Phantom.

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  • Sentosa

The former fine-dining enclave of famed chef Beppe de Vito has done away with the stuffy starched white tablecloths. It is now a casual affair at this amorous Italian joint perched up in the lush hills of Sentosa Island. The vibe is still as sexy as ever with the picture-perfect sunset on the horizon that is bound to charm the socks off your date.

Afterwards Head down to the sandy shores and listen to the waves crash at one of the many beach clubs along the stretch.

  • Marina Bay

More than just its famous chef’s table omakase experience, the revamped Waku Ghin comes with new surprises. Step through a cherry wood door, past a two-tonne stone sculpture, and settle down at The Bar. The intimate dining area comes flanked with drinking shelves, an impressive counter, and an affordable introduction to what the chef has to offer – from cocktails sweetened with seasonal fruits ($28) to wild-caught chutoro carpaccio ($65).

Afterwards Cross over to the nearby Gardens by the Bay for a night-time stroll among lush greens.  

Complete the date with these...

Can you ever sip your way into someone's heart? We can't say for sure, but these boozy spots around town might just do their bit to frame you in a totally-would-date vibe. (And the alcohol won't hurt, either.)
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