The most romantic restaurants in Singapore

Located in a preserved colonial chapel along the lush grounds of Dempsey Hill, Claudine sets the scene for an enchanting getaway from city life. 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 (also behind three-Michelin-starred Odette). Tuck into mains like the Vol-Au-Vent ($58) – a flaky puff pastry filled with sweetbread and woody morel mushrooms, or the Claudine Bouillabaisse ($198) – a dense and hearty fish stew from Provence. 

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.

If Paris – aka the City of Love – isn’t in your plans just yet, bring the romance to Maison Boulud instead. This French gem sets the mood with its elegant double-storey space – upstairs, you’ll find dreamy waterfront views that channel the French Riviera, while downstairs offers cosy booths perfect for intimate conversations. Curated by celebrated chef Daniel Boulud, the French dishes here are inspired by the seasons, his childhood, and his travels, making every bite a story to share. Sweep your date off their feet with the indulgent seafood platter, plateau de fruits de mer (from $135), paired with expertly selected wines from both old and new worlds. Sweeten the moment with the citron pistache or warm, buttery madeleines that are sure to win hearts.

Afterwards Take a romantic stroll along the promenade just outside Maison Boulud and soak in the stunning views of the bay and city skyline.

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This modern Italian restaurant at New Bahru spans two floors, taking over the space that used to be Nan Chiau Girls High's library. On the top floor sits the intimate 36-seater fine dining outfit Somma, while the lower floor houses a laidback cocktail and pasta bar. Chef Mirko Febbrile (who also helms Fico) 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 from the countryside, Somma dishes out dialled-up and creative renditions of traditional Puglian fare. 

Afterwards Sip on cocktails at Somma Bar one floor down. Unexpected tipples await, like the Bolognese Muse and Margarita for Mel. 

1-Flowerhill oozes romance — it's decked out in pretty florals everywhere (read: extremely wedding-coded), and set on a quiet hill in Sentosa. For a more casual date night, head to Wildseed Bar & Grill on the first floor for flame-kissed dishes and big, robust flavours like the wagyu satay with fries ($18) or the fuss-free wagyu barbecue platter ($45). For something more proper and intimate, head up to Camille, a French-Japanese restaurant on the second floor inspired by Monet's lover of the same name. It's an evening of refinement here, with dishes like the beef and tuna tartare ($42), seafood papillote ($45) and black forest dessert ($28) all prepped tableside. 

Afterwards Sentosa Sensoryscape is located conveniently nearby and next to Imbiah Station, so that's your post-dinner plans sorted.

Be whisked away into the Arabian night at this Middle Eastern restaurant along Peck Seah Street. The Prince sets the scene for romance, with interiors inspired by the mystical, enigmatic Arabian Desert – think dimmed lights, sandstone walls, rustic furniture, and Arabesque motifs. Dinner is a warm display of Arabian hospitality, with the signature ‘karam’ (meaning ‘generosity’ in Arabic) menu (from $72 to $158 per person) offering a free-flow mezze spread, a main, and dessert of rose pavlova. The mezze platter is a colourful palette of nine dishes, with dips and sides like cashew hummus, steak tartare, and mushroom pastilla. 

Afterwards The Prince has plenty of interesting tipples on the menu, but to make the most of your night, check out one of these cocktail bars nearby for the perfect nightcap.

Tanjong Pagar has no shortage of A-list restaurants, but Marcy’s strikes a chord with those seeking a romantic dining experience. As a modern seafood restaurant and cocktail bar, it’s all very European here – Tiffany lamps, gold gilt-framed paintings and velvet drapes adorn the space. Fancy decor aside, it’s far from fine dining with a menu that’s meant for sharing. Try the Aomori ice fish ($18) with hasselback potatoes, caviar, and pesto; or the chutoro crudo ($28) with citrusy notes, spicy tomato granita, sea grapes, and sesame.

Afterwards End the night on a sweet note with dessert. We love Dopa which is in the Tanjong Pagar neighbourhood, but you can also check out our nifty dessert guide here. 

If your date is a big foodie, then impress them at Tamba, Singapore's first and only West African restaurant. Opened by the same man behind Kafe Utu — Kurt Wagner — you can expect the same warm hospitality and unique interiors decked out with rustic pieces and thoughtful details. 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.

Afterwards Shimmy over 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.

A visit to this 40,000-square-feet destination is an event in itself. Air CCCC has a massive front lawn, working garden, and a two-storey restaurant fitted with its own fermentation lab. The chef's choice ($98) is a fuss-free option that takes you through the day's freshest produce and the kitchen's most creative dishes. But if you want to pick and choose, must-orders are the fermented cassava bread with mushroom butter ($16); crispy oyster mushrooms ($28); and confit grouper with white soy beurre blanc ($42). Desserts are also non-negotiable, and include items like cocoa husk and brown butter ice cream ($18) as well as kaffir lime gelato ($18).

Afterwards It's a no-brainer — hang out on Air's sprawling front lawn for conversations under the stars, or explore the Dempsey enclave.

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.

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 are perfect for a cosy date night without all the fuss. Innovative European small plates with Asian flourishes are the focus here, alongside a curation of 65 sake labels from Japan. 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 Explore the grounds of CHIJMES and its breezy courtyards. Stop by one of the many bars for post-dinner drinks and conversations under the stars.

Idyllic garden views unobstructed by concrete buildings surround you when you step into Roia, the progressive Indian 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. Expect to see artistic creations by Chef Priyam Chatterjee who paints the plates with vibrant colours in dishes like curry leaf gnocchi and tandoori seabass. A five-course dinner experience is priced at $188 per person.

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.

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) with San Marzano tomatoes or red onions. Small plates with seasonal ingredients are also available, ranging from fresh yellow beets with fennel to stracciatella with persimmons. Thereafter, indulge in freshly made pasta ($23) prepared before your eyes by the live pasta bar.

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.

Tucked within one of the black and white houses along Scotts Road and hidden behind an unsuspecting wooden door, you’ll find a cosy restaurant that looks like it could well be someone’s living room. This 31-seater is a love story in itself — after tying the knot with his Taiwanese wife, chef Javier Low shifted his focus from Japanese cuisine to fully embrace Taiwanese flavours. You'll taste everything from Taiwanese sashimi, to aged cai pu by Javier's Taiwanese mother-in-law in dinner menus starting from $128. To get the full experience, we recommend the option that includes Iru Den's crowning glory — the uni somen. 

Afterwards There's nothing much to do within the immediate vicinity, so linger a little longer for heartfelt conversations over wine. The wine pairing option starts from $60 for three glasses. 

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. 

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 anybody.

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

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 at the peak of Mount Faber. Start with fine de clair oysters $18) for two, warm up your tummy with classics like lobster bisque or French onion soup ($18), then tuck into mains like Dusk's signature prawn capellini ($28) or the grilled rack of lamb ($88).

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

If you and your partner love Japan, then a meal at this modern Japanese restaurant is one for the books. Even walking to your seat is an experience in itself; leading from Koma’s entrance to the dining hall is a long passageway lined with life-sized torii gates, much like the ones at Kyoto's famous Fushimi Inari. Must-orders include the crispy salmon pillow ($18) featuring Ora King salmon, smoked avocado, and roasted jalapeño, as well as the miso glazed eggplant ($18) and the signature Koma Roll ($82) with Kagoshima A4 wagyu, Hokkaido uni, and snow crab

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

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.

Stepping in from the electrifying energy of Amoy Street to the cavernous space of Cloudstreet, the disjunct is jarring. The restaurant 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, Australian Blue Marron, as well as stout and liquorice buns. The journey continues at Cirrus, Cloudstreet’s second-floor venue where guests are invited to adjourn for cheeses and dessert.

Afterwards Walk down the road and look out for the neon sign that reads ‘Psychic’. It’s not a Tarot reader but Employees Only, one of the most exciting cocktail bars in the city.

Nestled on the 70th floor of the Swissotel the Stamford, the restaurant’s sweeping views of the Civic District are reason enough for a visit. Green foliage and maple accents adorn the minimalistic but homey 130-seater venue. All that's left to do is to park yourself on a tall bar stool or cosy up to your date on one of Skai’s many cushy sofas. For beef connoisseurs, the A5 Saga Wagyu ($165) needs no introduction — it's known for cutting like butter and the smokiness it adopts from the Josper grill. All steaks here are expertly finished in the Josper oven and come with your choice of sauce and side.

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

Publico Ristorante stands out from the many riverside eateries along Robertson Quay with its charming interiors 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 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 Gulp Riverside Taproom for a wide variety of affordable craft beers. 

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. The communal set menu ($138) includes the restaurant's signature truffle focaccia to start, plus a selection of appetisers from burratina cheese to beef tartare. Then dive into mains like the signature Acquerello Risotto with shavings of seasonal truffles and aged Parmigiano Regganio. Desserts include a zesty lemon basil curd or the rich Sicilian Cassata.

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

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.

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. Order the crispy prata that comes presented in the shape of a waffle, topped with spice-scented fried chicken and a drizzle of butter chicken sauce. Another of its signature dishes is 'This is Also not Aloo Gobi' — transforming the traditional potato and cauliflower dish into a modern rendition with cauliflower couscous and spiced potato cubes.

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

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 squid ink aglio olio ($32) and ever-popular smoked rigatoni ($28). Fans of wine are spoilt for choice too, with a menu inspired by iconic movies throughout history. 

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

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 made with tuna akami and Peruvian anticucho chicken 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.

Ocean Restaurant is Singapore’s only underwater restaurant and maybe one of the hottest dining tickets in town — especially if you're a self-professed thalassophile. 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.

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.

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 one of the many cocktail bars along Amoy Street, from Native, to Employees Only and Stay Gold Flamingo.