The ultimate guide to Seletar

The Summerhouse is perched on the second floor of a conserved colonial bungalow in The Oval at Seletar Aerospace Park. It’s one of those places where you’ll find no problem lounging at for the entire day – book in one hand, coffee (or garden-themed cocktail) in the other. It dishes out ‘farms’-to-table creations, serving food carefully and personally sourced from Singaporean and Malaysian producers, garnished with herbs freshly plucked from the garden within the premises. Some highlights from the menu include the potato puree, the smashed avocado with poached egg and ikura, and the garden risotto which comes garnished with edible flowers. 

If you're looking to splash out then book one of three air-conditioned domes strategically placed in the garden. They fit up to six guests – there's a minimum spend of $300 – and are themed in different styles. We can't think of a more romantic place to pop the question.

Located at the tranquil grounds of Wheeler’s Estate comes a new concept: Cinder Steakhouse. Savour choice cuts of meat and over 200 wine bottles dining in a unique heritage colonial bungalow. Here, hickory wood chips are used to impart a kiss of smoke into signature cuts that include 150 days barley-fed porterhouse ($158), and the massive 1.4kg grain-fed tomahawk steak ($238). Pair the feast with classic sides of creamed spinach crowned with crispy onion ($16), grilled asparagus ($16), truffle macaroni and cheese ($23), and raise a toast with the wine of the month recommended by its in-house sommelier ($25/glass, $98/bottle).

Beyond prize cuts from the land, the menu also offers fresh catch from the sea, including octopus carpaccio brightened with yuzu dressing ($25) and Avruga caviar-topped Carabinero capellini ($46). Swing by for Oyster Hour every Wednesday (6pm-7pm) for half-priced Irish bivalves, or gather the girls to enjoy complimentary prosecco as part of Ladies’ Night. 

There are plenty of spaces in Seletar that feel like a step back in time and Boh Geh Uncle Canteen is definitely one of those spots. The makeshift canteen is a popular spot for those working in the area, cyclists, joggers and also curious sorts. Don't expect anything for the 'gram – firstly, photos and videos are not allowed in the canteen and also, it really is a part of the former Seletar Camp that has been around from 1969. And it still feels like the late 60s at this corner where patrons sit on rickety tables and mismatched stools and benches under a DIY tarp canopy. Food-wise, there are only three stalls here – a cai png shop, a Muslim food stall and a drinks stall run by Boh Geh Uncle himself – who is also the owner. Prices are super cheap for food and drinks. 

Located on the ground level of The Summerhouse, Wildseed is a café, pâtisserie and bar all in one. Its verdant setting makes for stunning photos, while black and white pillars provide ample #OOTD opportunities. Menu offerings include breakfast classics like waffles, pancakes and avocado toasts but try its pasta dishes – the carbonara is a crowd favourite.

Set within Seletar Aerospace Park and at a former British military airbase, Wheeler's Estate lets you dine at its bar, or outdoors picnic-style while you soak in the green views. On the menu you will find standard pub grub like fish and chips, pizzas for sharing, chicken wings and more.

Welcome aboard Hangar66. This aviation-themed café comes hidden within a plane hangar – complete with views of a runway and parked airplanes. During a time when travel borders remain largely shut, Hangar66 Cafe offers a novel setting to satisfy those hungry for coffee – and adventure.

But be warned: checking into the place itself is quite the journey. The café is tucked away in the Seletar Aerospace district, but its secluded locale provides a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city. Low-rise buildings and expansive green fields stretch for as far as the eyes can see.

Inside, the spacious eatery comes decorated with aviation motifs. Metal airplane parts double up as a communal table, a helicopter anchors the dining area, and the floor even comes splashed with runway markings. Choose to grab a seat by the windows, which offer prime views of the parked flying machines.

Chicken or beef? The menu features Western-styled plates of grilled chicken ($13.66), wagyu beef burger ($18.66), and pasta tossed with tom yum ($15.66) and turkey bacon ($13.66). Coffee or tea? A lean selection of drinks is available for those looking to get a dose of caffeine, while cold pints come in the form of Sapporo on draft alongside bottled variants.

Hop on your two-wheeler and cycle to Soek Seng 1954 Bicycle Café. It's pretty obvious that a cycling enthusiast runs the place with the café walls decorated with hanging bicycles and assorted cycling paraphernalia. On a normal day, you can also watch the aeroplanes take off at the nearby Seletar Airport while you tuck into a mix of Western, Japanese and local dishes.

If you're looking for a pint and some solid pub food in these parts of Singapore, Youngs Bar and Restaurant is a European-style diner not too far from The Oval. Chug on pints of beer while enjoying mussel pots that come in white wine, tomato and blue cheese bases – or go for the flank steak if you want something heartier.