15 Best Cafe & Restaurants in Singapore That Opened in 2022

Eat - Eating Out - Family Friendly - Date Night / Sans Kids

Hottest new restaurants and cafés that have opened over the last few years

Always on the lookout for the best new restaurants in Singapore? Us too! We are always on the hunt for a new café or restaurant to check out – here are some of the best openings from the last few years…

EDITOR’S PICK!
Back to Eden: Plant-based Cafe

New restaurants singapore — Back to Eden: All-day dining new restaurant

Looking for a new cafe for weekend breakfast or a mid-week lunch? Back to Eden (formerly Curious Palette) is an all-day dining restaurant on Prinsep Street. This light-filled cafe is all about plant-based meals that are so good you won’t even notice you’re not eating meat. And before you think, yawn, plant-based equals salads, think again! On the menu, you’ll find lots of hearty fare. Try the stunningly deep-flavoured Roasted Roma Tomato Soup ($15.90) topped with smoked cashew sour cream and basil oil best served with a Cheese & Onion Toastie $4 (the micro-bakery produces naturally-leavened rustic sourdough so this is good stuff!). Brekkie dishes range from Acai bowls to Crispy Potato Rosti ($18.90) with creamed spinach and slow-roasted tomato to Confit Vine-ripened Cherry Tomatoes on Toast ($19.90). Don’t miss the Oyster Mushroom Berempah ($11.90) a very moreish sharing nibble of deep-fired spice-covered oyster mushrooms that you dip in lime mayo dip. Delish!

Back to Eden, 64 Prinsep St, Singapore 188667

Chef Justin Quek’s New Café: JUSTIN in Singapore

Celeb Chef Justin Quek, who has cooked for many famous celebrities and politicians including Mr Lee Kuan Yew, opened his own gastro café-bar JUSTIN in Singapore, on 16 August 2023. This all-day dining spot is all about making Quek’s cuisine more accessible – so you’ll find his signature creations of classic French recipes as well as popular local dishes. There are luxe options (like adding 30 grams of superior oscietra caviar to your scrambled eggs for $110 extra) to more down-to-earth dishes. Tuck into flourless Souffle or Crab Capellini, with fresh crab and chilli, Lobster Hokkien Mee, Homemade Foie Gras Xiao Long Bao, and Prawn Noodle Soup. Go for brunch and sit on the airy balcony or grab a communal table inside and snack on bar bites like Chicken Kaarage or House Made Iberico Pork Fried Mantou (a little on the greasy side). Highlights for us were the brunch dishes of Wild Mushrooms, Poached Egg, Iberico Pork Jus and Parmentier sauce ($28) as well as the super juicy plump Poached Oysters ($14 for 2) done Cantonese style. End your meal with homemade ice cream and a cup of Vittoria Coffee. The new gastro café-bar is on Level 4 of TANGS at Tang Plaza (head to the private lift which opens up directly to the new café even outside TANGS’ operation hours).

JUSTIN in Singapore, 310 Orchard Road, Tang Plaza, Level 4, TANGS @ Tang Plaza, Singapore, 238864

Yue Bai: modern Chinese restaurant

new restaurants Yue Bai chinese modern April 2023 — Image credit: Yue Bai

Yue Bai in Duxton is a new Chinese restaurant with intimate zen-like interiors and refined Chinese heritage dishes. What’s interesting here is that the food is rooted in TCM – made with ancient dietary principles known as shí liáo or ‘dietary therapy’. Chef Hongwei’s dishes offer familiar flavours from various Southern Chinese cuisines. Highlights of the a la carte menu include the nourishing and floral-tasting double-boiled Silkie Chicken Soup with Jasmine Flower, Dried Longan, and Wolfberries ($22); Seafood Deep-fried Granola Prawn ($36) a fun twist on the popular cereal prawn, but using house-made granola instead, and the clean-tasting Braised Baby Sharp Spinach with Yellow Millet and Wolfberries ($18). There are also set menus (served in individual portions), that are aligned with the Chinese calendar so you can feast on modern Chinese dishes while nourishing your body according to the seasons.

Yue Bai, 33 Duxton Rd Singapore 089497

Tom’s Palette: new gelato cafe

Tom’s Palette has had a revamp and has reopened on Middle Road with a stellar expanded cafe area that’s super cosy. There are always 36 gelato flavours at any one time, and the quality is really tip top! From quirky flavours like Strawberry Balsamic, Nasi Lemak, Pipagao and savoury Nori with White Chocolate, to more traditional options like Maple Pecan and Granny’s Favourite – a fusion of Chocolate Malt gelato with Cookie Dough and Chocolate Chip.
Come with the gang and tuck into Tom’s Palette ($29.80) consisting of six omakase flavours (it’s a surprise depending on the day’s selection!) or share a moreish French waffle (the toppings change daily!) drizzled with maple syrup and a scoop of ice cream. Once your kids know about this place, prepare for multiple visits!

Tom’s Palette, 51 Middle Road #01-01, Singapore 188959,

Coach Play Singapore Shophouse

Looking for a new spot to take some selfies? Head over to the new IG-worthy cafe Coach Play Singapore Shophouse launched by luxury fashion house Coach. Find it on the first floor of a three-storey shophouse along Keong Saik Road – it’s ridiculously gorgeous with its pink facade. Inside you’ll find artisanal coffee and classic NYC bites (Pancakes, Chicken and Waffles, All American Cheeseburger) plus a special evening Dessert Bar menu after 6pm – all crafted in collaboration with Brawn & Brains.

Coach Play Singapore Shophouse, 5 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089113,

Allpress Espresso New Café

Singapore’s first Allpress Espresso café and retail pop-up store opens at 73 Duxton Road. This is where to head for your caffeine fix – there are two Allpress Espresso signature medium roast blends; the perfectly balanced Allpress Espresso Blend is sweet and complex with caramel, milk chocolate, and dark fruit notes, while the smooth and mellow Browns Mill Organic possesses a gentle acidity coupled with toffee and juicy citrus nuances. Foodwise the menu consists of bagels, pastries, cake, and ice cream.

Allpress @ 73 Duxton, 73 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089532

Luckin Coffee cafe from China

Luckin Coffee, the Starbucks of China and original creator of the popular Coconut Latte opens its first overseas outpost in Singapore at Ngee Ann and Marina Square. Luckin Coffee has over 8,000 stores in China and will soon have 10 stores in Singapore. Aside from the famous Coconut Latte ($6.40), there will be drinks like the Velvet Latte (which uses Hokkaido milk, $6.40) and Creamy Dreamy Latte ($6.40). Luckin Coffee will have 100% cashier-less stores, where you can select, purchase, and pick up your coffee through a mobile app for both dining in and takeaway.

Luckin Coffee, 6 Raffles Blvd, #02-153, Marina Square, Singapore 039594

Chifa! Peruvian-Chinese cuisine

Chifa! at Resorts World Sentosa, highlights a cuisine from Peru that is a mix of local Peruvian and Chinese food brought over by Chinese immigrants to Peru in the 1800s. Dishes include Whole Fish Jalapeno Style made with tiger garoupa steamed Cantonese style and then topped with chopped pickled jalapeno peppers, Chinese Roasted Pork, “Chifa! Chili”, with “Tamal de Arroz” Dumplings and Lettuce Taco and Bijao wrapped Fish and “Sudado” sauce. The menu features ceviches from Yellowfin Tuna Tamarind Ceviche ($22), to Red Snapper Ceviche served with Banana Chips ($24) plus Tiradito, a Peruvian take on sashimi, and then the offerings swing back to the Chinese element with a menu of dim sum as well.

Chifa!, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Ave8, Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore 098269

Au Balcon at The Summerhouse

The Summerhouse in Seletar has renovated its second-floor restaurant which now goes by the name of Au Balcon, translating to ‘on the balcony’. The menu still focuses on French flavours – highlights include the Seared Atlantic Scallops ($24) served on smoky romesco sauce, topped with sweet caper raisins and the Florentine 65°C Organic Egg ($18), on garlic sauteed spinach with fresh truffle. The weekend brunch menu sees dishes like the Classic Breakfast Set ($24) that comes with a variety of pastries, ham and egg omelette, and coffee or tea plus there are mains of Beef Cheek Bourguignon of wagyu slow-cooked beef on potato puree ($48), Confit de Canard ($36) and Buttermilk Galettes ($24). You could also go for its three-course set menu ($55 per person) that includes an appetiser, main and dessert. When the Wildseed Cafe and the Summerhouse Bistro downstairs are full as they so often are on the weekends – head up to Au Balcon for a quieter meal in the light-filled dining room.

Au Balcon, 3 Park Lane, Singapore 798387

The Coconut Club: new to Siglap

new restauarnts singapore the coconut club siglap April 2023 — Image credit: The Coconut Club

Easties, get excited! The Coconut Club brings its lemak food to your ‘hood! Find this second branch of The Coconut Club – a casual canteen set in a quaint shophouse along Frankel Avenue. The signature is Nasi Lemak $21 (a serving of coconut rice, fried egg, anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and sambal with either fried chicken or Kembong fish) – pssst we love how kids under 5 are on the house! The Coconut Club Siglap also debuts a new weekend brunch menu. Look out for savoury and sweet Malay and Peranakan offerings from Dry Laksa ($21) of rice noodles cooked in a rich coconut milk-rempah medley, topped with fresh tiger prawns to Apom Berkuah with Pisang Pengat ($16), soft and chewy fermented rice and blue pea flower pancakes with gula melaka sauce and bananas simmered in coconut milk.

The Coconut Club, 97 Frankel Ave, Singapore 458222

Altro Zafferano

Formerly known as just Zafferano, Altro Zafferano (meaning the ‘other’ Zafferano) presents an upscale dining space offering contemporary Italian cuisine interpreted through the South Italian lens. Perched on the 43rd floor of the Ocean Financial Centre this spot offers breathtaking views of the city skyline (best enjoyed at the alfresco bar for a pre-dinner drink!). Catch executive chef Andrea De Paola and head chef Daniele La Rocca working at the 12m-long open kitchen that parallels the length of the entryway. Plump for the experience menu ($148) where you get to choose your own 4-course tasting exploration of a la carte dishes like the Oscietra Caviar, Sea Urchin Ice Cream, and Red Prawn Waffle (from $68); the House-made Tagliolini with Langoustine Carpaccio and Amalfi Lemon Garum ($48) and Roaring Forties Lamb ($68) or Silver Cod with Peperone Crusco and Mussels Veloute ($72) for mains. Desserts are standout – don’t miss the Espresso, Mascarpone, and Clementine Orange. Looking for an impressive spot for client lunches? Check out the three-course lunch sets ($78).

Altro Zafferano, Ocean Financial Centre, Level 43 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049315, Tel: (+65) 6509 1488

Soi Social: Thai

Soi Social is a new Thai within Festive Walk, Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) headlined by Thai Celebrity Chef Ian Kittichai. The restaurant is all modern clean lines with an open kitchen to watch the chefs at work. Look forward to contemporary regional Thai dishes. We loved the moreish JEAB JEAB Chicken & Coconut Dip served with crackers ($18). Whet your appetite with little parcels of Chiang Mai duck sausage wrapped in wild betel leaf, ginger, peanuts and chili ($18), and delicious Grilled Giant Prawns with glazed choo chee sauce ($44). Other highlights include the meaty Baby Back curry glazed ribs ($24) with pineapple relish, Roasted Marinated Duck served with Thai red curry sauce, and a light yet flavoursome Tom Ka Min Barramundi ($32). Desserts are so pretty – Mango Sticky Rice ($15) sees blue rice thanks to butterfly pea flowers with mango mousse, and fresh mango, or there’s Thai Tea-ramisu ($12.50) with Thai tea-soaked lady fingers – all too pretty to eat but you’ll tuck in nonetheless and be happy you did!

Soi Social, Festive Walk, Resorts World Sentosa

Barood: bar serving Indian tapas

Barood: Sultry new bar serving Indian tapas April 2023 — Image credit: Barood

Barood (which translates to gunpowder) is the new ‘modern izakaya’ upstairs from sister restaurant Revolver (famed for its modern take on Indian cuisine centring around an open-fire grill). As you enter Barood you’ll first note the well-stocked bar squeezed into the corner, then the decks, then the long narrow room inspired by Moorish influences of 1960 Paris with its sultry sumptuous tones of red and its plush seats. Expect Indian contemporary tapas – a melange of flavours all heavily spiced. Think Goat Biryani Arancini ($26), Balls of Barood ($22) – chicken meatballs glazed with spicy Manchurian sauce, Lobster Taco, that if you were to try to share would be difficult (because there’s only one and it’s quite tasty) and my favourite – Mini Duck Pancakes ($22) two tiny crisp orbs of paniyaram topped with deliciously spiced pulled duck and tomato chutney. Portion sizes are small and delicate aside from the Malabar Sloppy Joe (which I recommend – a sandwich of pulled pork and spiced shallots – you’ll need to use your hands and yes, it gets messy). Cocktail wise sip on Tropical Skin ($24) made with clarified Plantation Original Dark or the Sweet Assassin ($24), made from Altos Reposado.

Barood, 56A Tras Street. Singapore 078977

Farrer Horse: new bar

New restaurant-bar Farrer Horse April 2023 — Image credit: Farrer Horse new bar

Farrer Horse is a regal restaurant bar in The Sultan Hotel that serves playful Asian dishes and equestrian-inspired cocktails. Its concept is built around the grandeur that defined Farrer Park Racecourse, Singapore’s first horse-racing venue in the 1840s, which shared the same space as The Sultan Hotel. Think plush velvet and leather sofas, cane chairs, and a grandiose bar highlighted in gold while the walls are adorned with illustrations of horses. The new restaurant on the first floor of this Kampong Glam shophouse serves Asian dishes such as DIY-style Nyonya Pie Tee with a filling of braised turnip, carrots and juicy prawns, Otah Ravioli, a re-imagination of the famous Burmese Salad Laphet and Chicken Kaffir Lime Curry served with traditional lace crepes. Sip on six novel, horse-themed cocktails ($22++) named after famous racehorses.

Farrer Horse, The Sultan Hotel, 101 Jalan Sultan #01-02/#02-00, Singapore 199002

élan: by Les Amis Group

élan is Les Amis Group’s latest concept located in… Shaw Centre (but of course, that’s where many of their concepts live including 3 Michelin star Les Amis restaurant and casual dining Bistro Du Vin!). élan serves approachable modern French cuisine with Asian touches – think Eel Tartelette ($38), Foie Gras Bon Bon ($38) Roasted saddle and rack of Pyrenées Lamb ($68), Yamaguchi A4 Wagyu Striploin ($75) and blue lobster ($110). élan’s set lunch is $70++.

élan Restaurant, Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road #01-13, Singapore 228088

Thirty9: on Duxton Hill

The Swiss-Italian owners of popular Italian restaurant Latteria Mozzarella Bar have opened a Thirty9 next door. In the kitchen is Italian Chef, Erik Trozza whose Italian creations are inspired by the Mediterranean – think all-day tapas, hand-crafted pasta, house made bread and Napoli-style pizza. Highlights include the Spinach Ravioli ($32), and Gigli & Gamberi ($36) house-made flower shaped pasta with prawns, zucchini, tomato and garlic with a lightness from lemon and mint. For something unusual try the Broccoli pizza with spicy sauce, buffalo mozzarella, potato and olives ($25). Mains span Truffle Halibut ($38) to delicious NZ Lamb rack with a pistachio crust ($58) or charcoal grilled Beef T-Bone ($158 for 1kg). Sit alfresco looking onto Duxton Hill and sip on an Aperol Spritz or a bottle of Prosecco and enjoy the tapas bites until 7pm. But leave a little room for the beautiful desserts: Cannoli Siciliani with ricotta and chocolate $16 is chef’s kiss!

Thirty9, 39 Duxton Hill, Tanjong Pagar, Tel: (+65) 6717 3939

Café Kitsuné

new restaurant singapore April 2023 — Image credit: Cafe Kitsune

Famous French-Japanese chain Café Kitsuné is now in Singapore! This new cafe has a bit of a cult following with 21 cafés around the world. Head here for single origin coffees sourced from Nicaragua, Guatamela and El Salvadore, which are roasted in Café Kitsuné’s roastery in Okayama, Japan – plus of course the famous fox-shaped shortbread in butter, sesame, chocolate, and matcha flavours ($4 each). There’s a small savoury menu of quiche and sandos like the chicken katsu sando ($15), or egg sando ($13) made with white bread or save yourself for the sweets like the Paris-Brest ($12), the matcha éclair ($11), plus Singapore specials like the chilli chocolate tart ($12).

Café Kitsuné, 13 Stamford Rd, #01-11, Singapore, 178905

Ms Maria & Mr Singh by Gaggan

Ms. Maria & Mr. Singh: new restaurant by chef Gaggan Anand April 2023 — Image credit: Ms. Maria & Mr. Singh

Ms Maria & Mr Singh the newest restaurant by chef Gaggan Anand! This casual offshoot of Gaggan retains some of the original hits from the Bangkok branch though this menu is more concise with 30 or so dishes featuring tapas and small plates starting from $12 that marries Indian flavours with some Mexican presentation (tacos, quesadillas and tamales). Now’s your chance to try some of the greatest Gaggan hits for a fraction of the price! Don’t miss the iconic Papdi Chat ($18), a yogurt explosion of flavours inspired by the popular Indian street food as well as Cold Curry Ceviche ($20) a raw dish that blends curry flavours with raw seafood. Munch on Spicy Crunchy Okra ($12), Pork Vindaloo Tacos ($17 for 2pcs) of pulled pork in a Goan-style masala with pineapple salsa, before moving on to mains of Gaggan’s Crab Curry ($32) – a signature dish of Chef Gaggan since 2016, and the Chicken Tikka Masala ($14). Overall a fun place to check out some of the much-talked-about Gaggan dishes without hurting your wallet. We also loved the fun decor (lead image) inspired by Jaipur and Oaxaca- colourful tiles, a vibrant bar and rattan light fixtures. Read our interview with Chef Gaggan Anand on being a Dad, licking plates and encouraging his daughter to be a rebel here!

Ms Maria & Mr Singh Singapore, 43 Craig Road, Singapore 089691

LUNA new patisserie cafe in Joo Chiat

LUNA, the Singaporean homegrown patisserie opens its second outlet in Joo Chiat that’s all sleek industrial chic. New items shine the spotlight on interesting ingredients such as buckwheat, rhubarb, cassis, tofu and more. Look forward to Vanilla Praline Tofu, Chocolate Cassis Mascarpone, Caramel Banana Chocolate Tart, Rhubarb Strawberry Tart and Vanilla Strawberry Panna Cotta. A highlight is the patisserie’s first specialty chocolate-making showroom which dominates the front of house. Framed by glass windows and a floor-to-ceiling glass door, customers and passersby get to peek into the process of the making of one of LUNA’s new highlights – nine fun flavours of handcrafted chocolate bon bons that are given complimentary to customers as part of their opening promotion!

LUNA, 121 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427410

Small Tables: Ipoh cafe

small table new restaurant ipoh cuisine April 2023 — Image credit Small Tables

Small Tables is a modern Ipoh-style cafe on Orchard road offering Ipoh cuisine. This place has all the IG-feels – emerald green seats, brass lamps, and lots of natural light for taking pics! There is both indoor and outdoor seating at this new casual restaurant so you can people-watch as you sip on your Ipoh white coffee ($7.50) served with a custard-filled taiyaki on the side. Menu highlights include Malaysian dishes such as the Ipoh Curry Mee ($20) served dry or with soup, and chock-full of ingredients like poached chicken, caramelised char siu, crispy siu yoke, braised pig ears, pig skin, poached prawns, bean sprouts, and mint leaves. Other dishes to try: Ipoh Shredded Chicken Hor Fun ($16), Hakka Noodles and Cheese & Big Prawns ($24) – we hear this dish is enough for at least 2 pax. While on the pricier side, reviews have been solid.
Small Tables, 9 Scotts Road, #01-09/10/11/12 Pacific Plaza, Singapore 228210

Ka-EN Grill & Sushi Bar

new sushi restaurant April 2023 — Image credit: Ka-En

Ka-EN Grill & Sushi Bar has opened within Capitol Singapore, specialising in Japanese grills, sushi and sakes. Come for the ‘Aburi 12 kinds Kaisen Chirashi Don’ ($45), which comes with a generous variety of sashimi including bluefin fatty tuna, yellowfin tuna, amberjack, Japanese scallop, squid, sea grapes, sea urchin and caviar. Or order the platter Nigiri Sushi ($50, pictured) featuring 10 kinds of beautifully plated nigiri sushi, the kid-friendly Gyoza ($8) or the DIY Sumi Yaki Premium Wagyu Sushi Set ($29). The Signature Grilled Meat Platter ($55) is great for sharing and comes with grilled A4/5 Premium Wagyu, Iberico pork, chicken and assorted vegetables. As a sake bar, Ka-EN has a good selection of more than 30 sake labels from various prefectures – expect sake on tap from November! We will be back for the great value lunch sets (from $19 for a main, appetiser, salad and soup).

Ka-EN Grill & Sushi Bar, 15 Stamford Road, #01-82, Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski, Singapore 178906

Beast Restaurant in Duxton

Duxton’s got a new modern steakhouse! This new restaurant in Singapore boasts a cosy ambience that is perfect for date night or an intimate gathering with friends. It’s all about great quality beef here, cooked on the specially designed Binchotan grill over a mix of charcoal, Oakwood and Lychee wood. Highlights include the Sanchoku Wagyu Picanha ($68), Grilled Pigeon ($58) and Portoro Australian Grain-fed Ribe Eye ($64). But first, start with appetisers of freshly chucked Live Pacific Oysters, Smoked Tuna Tataki served with foie gras terrine and the must order of Cauliflower & Kale.
Beast Restaurant & Bar, 10 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089594

Ce Soir

Ce Soir is a floral-inspired French dining restaurant by the group behind Le Jardin and pet-friendly Café de Nicole’s Flower. Set in an old black and white colonial bungalow within the Portsdown area, this new restaurant is decorated with botanical elements as well as dried and preserved flowers. Ce Soir, helmed by Chef Koh Han Jie, former Junior Sous Chef of two-Michelin starred Les Amis, offers fine dining French cuisine with Asian touches. There are two menus available: the four-course Lustre ($98) and the nine-course Iridescent ($198).
Ce Soir, 5B Portsdown Road, Singapore 139311

The Nursery Cafe & Bar

new restaurants in singapore April 2023 — Image credit: The Nursery Cafe & Bar

It’s being touted as one of the most IG-worthy cafes of the moment. The Nursery Café & Bar (tucked away within commercial property Ark @ Gambas) is a gorgeous new, garden-themed restaurant with a nursery retail section next door. The decor is all rattan furniture and green plants. We love the dual personality trend happening at the moment – this spot goes from café by day to bar by night. The daytime menu features Classic Bacon & Egg Waffles, Very Berry Waffles with Gelato, a selection of pizzas, Granola Bowls and desserts, while the evening menu concentrates on bar bites – though this new spot is just in its soft launch phase so bear with them!
The Nursery Cafe & Bar, ARK @ Gambas, 7 Gambas Crescent, #01-16, Singapore 757087

Drunken Farmer @ Martin Road

new restaurant singapore April 2023 on martin rd — Image credit: Drunken Farmer

Drunken Farmer opens its third restaurant at Martin Road! Common Man Coffee Roasters gets a split personality (such a clever use of space!) and while it remains the same cafe we love by day, by night it turns into Drunken Farmer with movie shorts projected onto the walls, low lighting and an overall funkier vibe. The menu offers an extensive list of curated natural wines to go with the gut-pleasing sourdough pizzas. Our faves are the simpler pizzas: the Margherita ($18) with its sourdough pizza base cooked till crisp (and a little on the charred side), and rich tomato sauce topped with creamy stracciatella. Other must-tries: Chicken Kaarage ($18) crispy chicken fried thighs served with tangy kimchi mayo and Prawns Sticks ($20) plus a host of salads, pizzas and desserts. Open Tuesdays to Sundays, 6pm to 11pm.
Drunken Farmer, 22 Martin Road, Singapore 239058

Bakalaki has moved!

BAKALAKI Greek Taverna, known for its authentic Greek fare of Tzatziki, Keftede (meatballs), traditional-style Greek Salad, Moussaka and Grilled Meats has moved! It’s now on Martin Rd (taking over the space previously occupied by Jyspy AND PS Cafe – so yes, it’s huge, but it’s often completely buzzing, so you’ll still need a booking!

BAKALAKI Greek Taverna, 38A Martin Road, Singapore 239072

Restaurant Born

Restaurant Born is a new fine dining restaurant at Jinrikisha Station, a heritage building that was formerly a rickshaw depot in 1903. The interiors are impressive – a 36-seater dining room with high glass ceilings filled with natural light and adorned with artwork by Dutch artist Peter Gentenaar. At the helm is Malaysian-born chef Zor Tan (from Andre Chiang’s Restaurant Andre). The contemporary menu is a combination of sophisticated French gastronomy and Chinese ingredients and flavours. Expect an indulgent and elaborate nine-course meal priced at $368++ with dishes like Jerusalem artichoke with lily bulbs and caviar, smoked eel with barramundi fish maw, and Alaskan king crab with glutinous rice.
Restaurant Born, 1 Neil Road, Singapore 088804

Shikar

2023 new restaurants singapore April — Image credit: Shikar

Shikar is a new restaurant offering fine dining Indian cuisine inspired by the grand old feasts of Indian Royals. Shikar offers fire-roasted dishes and other traditional Indian cuisine reinterpreted to reflect global techniques and influences – think Tandoor Roasted Chicken with smoked tomato-saffron-cream sauce ($49), Australian Lamb Biryani ($57), Josper Grilled Wild Caught Tiger Prawns (market price), Naan with goats cheese and pickled chillies ($13) and gourmet desserts like Pistachio Rose Kulfi ($21).
Shikar, Maxwell Reserve Singapore, Autograph Collection, 2 Cook Street, Singapore 078857

EDITOR’S PICK
Oumi: Modern Japanese

New restaurants singapore April 2023 - Oumi Japanese kappo cuisine — Image credit: Oumi

Oumi by 1-Group affords the same amazing views as Kaarla, tucked in the corner of the 51st floor of CapitaSpring. Oumi serves modern Japanese ‘Kappo’ cuisine which takes inspiration from the best of seasonal ingredients. Sit at the counter – you’ll have your back to those city views but the chefs put on a good show in the open kitchen and with the affable Chef Lamley Chua prepping your food you are in for a real treat! Get ready to be blown away by the impressive nine-course omakase dining experience ($288++) featuring dishes like five types of sashimi, Bincho-grilled Kagoshima A5 Tenderloin Chateaubriand, and a Foie Gras Monaka (a reinvention of the traditional Japanese rice cracker snack filled with a spicy foie gras ganache and topped with pickles and edible flowers from the 1-Arden Food Forest). Some of the dishes you’ll also find on the a la carte menu such as the Tempura Crepe ($25 for two) – a crispy crepe cracker made with gruyere cheese, topped with avocado and roe, deep-fried sakura ebi, and balsamic-teriyaki sauce. If you have a super special occasion coming up or if you’re tasked to organise a business meal – Oumi is a good contender. There’s also a more affordable four-course lunch set at $65.
Oumi, 88 Market St, #51-02, CapitaSpring 048948

Ocean Restaurant: Underwater fine dining restaurant reopens

new restaurant April 2023 - ocean resorts world sentosa singapore — Image credit: Ocean Restaurant

Talk about novel experiences, the Ocean Restaurant fine dining underwater restaurant has reopened in Resorts World Sentosa with a new look and a two Michelin-starred Celebrity Chef Patron, Olivier Bellin, of L’Auberge des Glazicks in France. Step into the underwater world and be greeted with views of the majestic manta rays and marine animals in S.E.A. Aquarium’s Open Ocean Habitat. Chef Bellin’s new menu centres around responsibly sourced seafood, local produce and house-grown herbs. Ocean Restaurant’s four-course lunch menu is $148++ per person and the six-course dinner is $248++.
Ocean Restaurant, West B1M Carpark, Equarius Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa, 22 Sentosa Gateway

Read More: Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants

Pangium in the Botanics

Award-winning Chef Malcolm Lee (of Candlenut fame) opens his second restaurant in Singapore with the COMO Group. Pangium is housed within The Orangery at the Gallop Extension of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and only offers a tasting menu of Contemporary Straits heritage cuisine. Lunch is priced at $198++ with dinner at $258++.
Pangium, 11 Gallop Road, Gallop Entrance, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 259015

Nobu

There is still a buzz about Nobu restaurant which opened in Singapore last month to much fanfare with people tripping over themselves to secure a coveted table. Nobu restaurant by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, is known for its creative cuisine that uses traditional Japanese cooking with Peruvian flavours. The menu features Nobu’s signature dishes like the famed Black Cod Miso ($68), Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño ($39), Tuna Tacos ($13) and world-class sushi, as well as special dishes inspired by local flavours.
Nobu restaurant, Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, 90 Orchard Blvd, Singapore

Summer Hill relocates to Orchard Road

French restaurant Summer Hill used to be a hidden gem in Sunset Way but it has now relocated to the 2nd floor of Claymore Connect on Orchard Road. The new location is a bright cosy brasserie-style space with wooden furniture, lots of plants and natural light plus a refreshed menu featuring comforting French classics. New dishes include the Fried Bangalow Pork Chops with violette mustard ($49), the must-try Sole à la Grenobloise with NZ sole, brown butter, lemon, capers and parsley ($48) – a beautiful rendition of this French classic and one of the best I’ve had all year! The dishes that Summer Hill fans know and love remain – think Classic Roast Chicken with a housemade demi-glace ($34 for half), and Mussels Normandy ($32) made with live Bouchot mussels cooked in white wine and for those hankering after their famous buttermilk fried chicken – try French Fried Chicken Winglets ($9) or go for brunch where French Fried Chicken is served as a main. They do a corkage free Monday and a neat set lunch too!
Summer Hill, Claymore Connect 442 Orchard Road #02-17, Singapore 238879

Cultivate Cafe: new cafe with healthy dishes

new cafe - cultivate cafe — Image credit: new cafe Cultivate Cafe

Cultivate Cafe is a plant-based, gluten-free vegan cafe set within the gorgeous library of the Maxwell Reserve Hotel. Head here for nutritious lunches made with organic ingredients sourced locally and globally from small and family farms. The menu encompasses superfood bowls like the Vegan Earth Bowl ($28) of shredded red cabbage, carrot, radish, edamame, broccolini, avocado and soba noodles with Goma cream dressing; Gluten-free Sandwiches ($22-24), and mains like Pad Thai Rice Noodle with Baked Tofu ($32), Smoked Onion and Asparagus Risotto ($40) and a range of Organic Salads.
Cultivate Cafe, 2 Cook Street, The Maxwell Reserve Hotel, Singapore 078857, Tel: (+65) 6914 1400

Sol & Ora: Mediterranean vibes

New restaurant by 1-Group Sol & Ora meaning Sun and Shore in Latin, is perched on the rooftop of The Outpost Hotel on Sentosa and aims to conjure Mediterranean vibes. It’s a lovely bright space thanks to the large windows looking down into the hotel pool (though you won’t necessarily get sky-high ocean views – for that head to the separate alfresco area at the Day Club 1-Altitude Coast beside the rooftop pool). The menu spans pasta and risotto, seafood dishes inspired by the French Riviera, Spanish tapas and Greek-style Josper grilled meats. Start off with La Bomba ($18) a plump breaded sphere made up of spiced minced chicken and potato and topped with aioli and a tomato passata sauce. Mains range from fish like the Seared Red Norwegian Salmon with Pesto and Grilled Fennel ($32) to meats like the Wood-fired Wagyu Flank Steak ($44). But we reckon the dish that really takes the shine is the Cavatelli Pasta with Squid, Crab, Amalfi Lemons and Red Onions. Sol & Ora also offers a weekend a la carte brunch with an add-on extra of two hours free-flow alcoholic beverages at $98++ per person, and they also do lunch, dinners and high tea on a two-tiered stand at $28++ per person, minimum two persons (Thursday to Sunday). Do note the policy of 12-year-olds and older.
Sol & Ora, Level 7 The Outpost Hotel, 10 Artillery Avenue, Sentosa Island, 099951

Well Collective: new cafe

The peeps who brought us Botany Café have opened a new concept, Well Collective, along Punggol. This Japanese-inspired café is still in soft launch so dishes may change, but initial offerings take inspiration from Japanese elements. The daytime menu offers house-made deli bakes and brunch dishes while at night, it turns into a contemporary Izakaya. Dishes range from Japanese Chicken Curry Sando ($19) and Truffled Beef Bowls ($25) to Well Daily Acai Bowl ($17), Avocado Toast and the Well Daily Big Breakfast of sourdough, eggs-of-your-choice, chicken or lamb sausage, tomato relish, and sauteed mushrooms. The space also has an alfresco pet-friendly area.
Well Collective, Northshore Plaza 2, 418 Northshore Drive, #02-11/12, Singapore 820418

Lumbre: Spanish

Lumbre (meaning fire in Spanish) is the newest Spanish restaurant in the lovely setting of Chijmes specialising in small plates and mains cooked over an open wood-fire grill or Josper charcoal oven. New restaurant Lumbre is a sleek, polished affair (by the same peeps behind Kilo and Kulto). Chef-owner José Alonso knocks out Homemade Foie Terrine with apple puree ($26), Charcoal Octopus & Iberico PorkBelly with Chorizo Foam ($38), Woodfire-grilled Lamb rack with pistachio praline, baby tomatoes and black olives ($36) and an interesting traditional Spanish dish – Seafood Wet Fideua ‘Arroz Caldoso’ with calamari and Smoked Eel $48). There’s something for everyone here as the menu spans vegetables, seafood, white and red meat, and desserts.
Lumbre, 30 Victoria St #01-20 Chijmes, Singapore 187996

Plain Vanilla: new cafe in East Coast

Easties you’re in luck! New cafe Plain Vanilla has just opened in trendy Katong along East Coast Road. There’s indoor dining and even an alfresco backyard! You can expect the famous Plain Vanilla cupcakes in flavours like Red Velvet, Earl Grey Lavender, Salted Caramel as well as a breakfast of Eggs Benedict ($22), Smashed Avocado Toast ($22) and Allpress coffee plus lunch options later in the day. Opens daily from 7:30am to 7pm.
Plain Vanilla, 199 East Coast Rd, Singapore 428902

The Coconut Club: EDITOR’S PICK!

The Coconut Club has moved from its lodgings at Ann Siang Hill to a triple-storey shophouse on Beach Road. Nasi Lemak is the name of the game here but there are new breakfast items like Charcoal-Grilled Kaya Toast ($7.80) with sous vide eggs plus new communal sharing dishes. Plump for the famous Ayam Goreng Berempah Set ($18.80) and tuck into pretty spectacular spiced fried organic GG French poulet (leg or breast), coconut rice, a fried egg, house-made sambal, ikan bilis and peanuts. Nasi lemak sets are available all-day on the first floor. You can head to the second floor for Nasi Lemak during lunch or choose from a communal-style nasi lemak menu for dinner with dishes like freeflow coconut rice ($3.50 per pax), Ayam Goreng Berempah for $28, Wingbean Salad with shredded chicken and prawns, fall-off-the-bone Percik Kambing ($38) lamb short ribs and Sambal Sotong ($26), with condiments charged at an extra $5. Totally worth it!
The Coconut Club, 269 Beach Road, Singapore 199546

The Butcher’s Wife: new menu

The Butcher’s Wife launches a new Brazilian-inspired menu and we are totally here for it! This restaurant is a fave with those avoiding gluten but it’s become one to watch for those who eat everything, thanks to the gut-friendly dishes created by Head Chef Brazilian Mariana Campos D’Almeida. Start with vegan-friendly crispy Croquetas ($14), made with soy milk, brined jackfruit, and served with a fermented cashew chilli sauce; then, move on to mains of Lamb Picanha ($38) with pistachio yoghurt and fresh orange salsa with sides of Chargrilled Cabbage ($18) with red dragon fruit barbeque sauce, and The Portobello ($20), a grilled portobello mushroom with ricotta, sweet potato puree, chermoula sauce and a tangy bite from pickled shimeji mushrooms. Something special to try: Acaraje ($25), a twist on the Brazilian street food sandwich, with a bun made from fermented black-eyed peas, filled with grilled prawns and a green mango herb salsa. Ask to see the Natural Wine menu too.
The Butcher’s Wife, 19 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168650

Poisson: Upmarket seafood EDITOR’S PICK!

Poisson on trendy Bukit Pasoh is a new restaurant set in a restored heritage shophouse. As you might expect from the name (‘poisson’ is ‘fish’ in French), fish features heavily at Poisson with dishes made from premium seafood ethically harvested and sourced from abroad as well as local, sustainably certified fish farms. Don’t miss the Blue Ebi ($52), beautiful raw blue prawns cured in spring onion infused oil topped with Bafun uni and Kaluga Queen Hybrid Caviar while more affordable starters include Cured Salmon Trout ($26) with baby beetroot, fennel and ricotta. Gotta love the squid dish named The Game ($24) after the hit Netflix show, Squid Game – the dish keeps the stakes high with deliciously grilled baby squid marinated in garlic served with a sweet onion and tomato puree with a lick of spice. We will be back for the awesome-sounding Saturday Brunch – a 10-course feast at $148++ with 2 hours of free-flow Brut Delamotte Champagne.
Poisson, 48 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089859

Kaarla Restaurant and Bar: EDITOR’S PICK!

1-Group opens 2 new restaurants at the rooftop of CapitaSpring: 1-Arden’s signature restaurant, Kaarla Restaurant and Bar serving Coastal Australian cuisine, and right next door sharing the same space is Oumi, Modern Japanese Kappo Dining. The world’s highest rooftop farm (open to the public to view) 1-Arden Food Forest makes the third opening of the group – all of which are interlinked. 1-Arden Food Forest farms many of the herbs and plants used in the kitchens at Kaarla and Oumi. We popped into Kaarla for lunch and were blown away by the views from the 51st floor, exciting ingredients and delicious cuisine. Aussie Chef Paul Fietchner oversees the cooking – mostly done on a custom-built wood-fired grill and oven. Highlights include the sourdough Damper ($8) with macadamia spread, lardo and lemon balm, Sydney rock oysters ($8 each) with a house-fermented fig leaf and oyster plant vinegar, lick-the-plate good King Island Beef OP Rib ($210/kg), house salt-cured Kangaroo, Sprouted Black Barley, Finger Lime ($32) and the epic Kaarla Closed Loop Salad ($28) of roof top leaves and flowers, tiger nut curd, and pickled daikon – it’s been a long time since I was so pleasantly surprised by a salad! At lunch, there’s a set menu at $52 for 2 courses and $67 for 3 courses.
Kaarla, 88 Market St, #51-02, CapitaSpring 048948

Osteria Mozza

Osteria Mozza is making a comeback! This time without a certain someone and instead helmed by American Chef Nancy Silverton, famous for popularising sourdough and artisan bread in the US. Those who have missed Osteria Mozza’s amazing pizzas will be excited to see a menu of winning classics from the one-Michelin-starred restaurant in LA. Osteria Mozza opens on 31 May 2022 at the new Hilton Singapore Orchard.
Osteria Mozza, Hilton Singapore Orchard, 333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867

The Kongsee: new cocktail bar

The Kongsee is a cocktail bar with actual vibes! Located in a heritage shophouse (of course!) along Gemmill Lane, it’s the brainchild of Chef Partner Willin Low who is famous for his Mod-Sin cuisine. Must-try dishes at this fun modern pink-hued izakaya include the Mini Roxy Crab Laksa, with wild-caught crabs, charcoal-grilled Iberico Satay with sweet Sarawak pineapple salsa and Krapow Prata Pizza – a melting pot of flavours borrowing from Thailand (minced basil chicken), India (prata base) and Italy – its cheesiness is reminiscent of pizza. Cocktails are fun – try The Kongsee, with homemade rose cordial and Tanglin Orchid Gin or the Bojio Martini adorned with an origami plane.
The Kongsee, 10 Gemmill Ln, Singapore 069251

Forma by Cicheti: EDITOR’S PICK!

There’s a new upmarket pasta trattoria in the East! Forma is a collab between The Cicheti Group and local pasta artisan Lee Yum Hwa (founder of private dining spot Ben Fatto 95). Pause at the window where you’ll get a super view of the pasta artisans at work rolling pasta sheets, measuring, and cutting the pasta into shapes from linguine to tortellini. It’s a real treat to see! Artisanal pasta served very al dente is the name of the game here – and there are beautiful dishes to choose from including our favourite the Struncatura Ammollicata ($32) with anchovies, olives, chilli and sauteed breadcrumbs (poor man’s cheese). Start with gnoccho fritto ($14), fried leavened dough layered with shavings of lardo, a plate of smoked speck ham wrapped around pan-roasted medjool dates ($18) and carciofi con stracciatella di formaggio ($21) a stupendous dish of braised artichokes on a bed of creamy stracciatella with sweet pops of balsamic currants. Share a few plates of pasta (Orecchiette al Sugo d’Agnello $32, the aforementioned Struncatura Ammollicata or Linguine al Limone $29) but leave room for mains like the Merluzzo alla Scafata ($42) blue cod in a cucielo vermouth-butter sauce and the Costata di Manzo ($78) an impressive 200g of grilled 45-day dry-aged beef from Tasmania served rare. This place is so hot it’s already booked out for May!
Forma, 128 Tembeling Road, Singapore 423638, Tel: +65 6513 228

Jypsy moves to One Fullerton

Jypsy has moved from Martin Rd to One Fullerton! Expect a stunning, sweeping vista of Marina Bay as you chow down on contemporary Japanese cuisine like the signature Salmon Tacos, Nest of Fries and Wagyu Beef Dripping Ric. There will also be some new curations at this flagship new restaurant such as Ceviche Snapper Al Limone Spaghettini, Jypsy Fish & Chips, Robata Lamb Ribs and more.
Jypsy One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Road, 01-02/03, Singapore 049213,

SoCal Italian restaurant California Republic

California Republic has just opened on Amoy Street. This new restaurant is by the same peeps behind Firangi Superstar, Neon Pigeon, and Fat Prince so you know the décor will be sweet and the food – Californian Italian fare – spot on. It’s all low lit vibes, dark tones, and cosy booth seating styled after California living in the summer of 1960. Look out for handmade pasta from Cappellacci ($29) the cutest little parcels of pasta filled with celeriac and mascarpone, served with umami mushrooms and Parmigiano cheese, to the Smoked Bucattini ($34) handmade tube-like pasta, tossed in a pork ragu with sofrito and bone marrow. For mains there’s a seafood stew, Lazy Man’s Cioppino and Pork and veal meatballs ($28) plated on crushed tomato sauce with a sourdough slice to mop up the goodness. And as the menu aims to be as inclusive as poss, there are plant-based dishes like braised young jackfruit masquerading as artichokes ($18), and a very interesting cocktail menu that takes alcohol-free options as seriously as the hard stuff!
California Republic, 88 Amoy Street, Singapore 069907, Tel: +65 9784 9487

WAKUDA Singapore: new restaurant at MBS

WAKUDA Singapore by celebrated two-Michelin-starred Chef Tetsuya Wakuda has opened at Marina Bay Sands! Chef Tetsuya and his team will steer this new modern Japanese restaurant through familiar Japanese favourites with a modern ‘WAKUDA-style’, ranging from appetisers, sashimi, sushi and tempura, to yakimono (grilled items), rice bowls and cold soba. For those looking for that extra special experience, hang tight for WAKUDA’s refined omakase and private sushi room experience to come.
WAKUDA Singapore, Lobby, Hotel Tower 2 Marina By Sands

Path Restaurant: New Mod Asian – EDITOR’S PICK!

There’s a sleek new restaurant in MBFC Tower 3 and it’s likely packed out for lunch with all the office folk taking a breather with delicious modern Asian food neatly offered in set lunches (from $39++ for 2 courses). Quieter at dinner (when more a la carte dishes are on offer), Path is definitely a new restaurant to add to your ‘must try’ list! Chef Marvas Ng is at the helm with a background in French fine dining so there are lots of clever twists in the cooking and presentation of the dishes. Must order dishes include beautifully presented Wakamatsu Strait Yellowtail ($36) sashimi with pickled Chinese artichoke, French Organic Cauliflower ($24) boiled in stock then deep-fried and finished with house-blended Furikake and mayonnaise and the Signature Butter-Roasted Herb-Brined French Poulet ($72) with Hong Kong Scallion Salsa and Daikon Sword Lettuce Roll. The whole chicken is brined with herbs and salt, then blanched, air-dried and then roasted in an unforgivable amount of butter and presented to the table before slicing. Eat the meat with refreshing daikon rolls drizzled in an onion vinaigrette. Save room for another must-order, the ‘supplement dish’ Signature Wild Forest Mushrooms Donabe ($38). It’s clay pot rice, made with premium Japanese rice, flecked with oat groats and sweet bites of waxed meat and porcini mushrooms. Just order it, you won’t regret it!
Path Restaurant, 12 Marina Boulevard, Tower 3, #01-05/06, MBFC, Singapore 018982

Sol & Luna

Looking for a new haunt with sky-high views? Sol & Luna on the 17th floor, of CapitaSpring affords lovely CBD sunset views. This bright and breezy bistro does brunch, afternoon tea, lunch sets from $35 per person for a two-course meal, evening tapas and dinner with flavours from Italy, France, Portugal, and Spain. Think Fried Soft-Shell Prawns ($16) with aioli, Heirloom Tomato Salad ($22), Wood-Fired Sardines wrapped with Parma Ham ($19), mains of umami-rich Truffle Risotto ($25), and deliciously flaky Baked Veal Shank Pie ($28). Local veg and produce are used where possible and there’s even an Edible Garden City farm growing on the roof of CapitaSpring that the 1-Group intend to use for many of its kitchens including at Sol & Luna.
Sol & Luna, #17-01, CapitaSpring, 88 Market St, Singapore, 048948

Native Restaurant

Amoy street keeps getting cooler, reinventing its look with new faces. Native Restaurant is one of the latest to join the offerings – although while the intimate narrow restaurant has only been open a month, you may know Vijay Mudaliar’s Native cocktail bar upstairs (it’s on the World’s Best Bars list). New Native Restaurant follows the same ethos as the renowned Native bar, with a focus on zero waste. Head Chef Y MJ Teoh (who trained at Pollen and Nouri), has put together a menu of nostalgic Asian dishes with lots of plant offerings. Native’s Miang Kham ($18) is a unique take on the traditional Thai starter of wild pepper leaves with its addition of pineapple shoyu (a by-product from a Native cocktail), tempeh crisps, ginger flower, lemongrass, tempeh crisps and toasted coconut. Other delights: Really Cold Somen ($16) noodles with white kimchi, charred shishito, and shiso in a refreshingly icy broth, Butterflied Snapper ($45) with chimichurri made from Asian herbs and desserts like Sticky Jackfruit & Sugee Cake. The attention to local ingredients and upcycling byproducts from the bar and kitchen is unique!
Native Restaurant, 52A Amoy Street, Singapore 069878

White Marble: EDITOR’S PICK!

White Marble is a Mediterranean grill restaurant by Chef Otto Weibel. Located in the Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, the restaurant has a slight corporate minimalistic vibe. Yet the food exceeds expectations with flavours from the Mediterranean including Greece, Morocco and the Middle East. There’s a focus on seafood and vegetables (where sister restaurant Black Marble centres around meat). Look out for the prettily plated Mezze Plate ($34 for two) featuring Tabbouleh with quinoa, bright and tasty Fattouche, smoky Eggplant Moutabbal, creamy Hummus, a Chicken Skewer and Pita. From the grill: tender Chargrilled Octopus ($36), Fish of the Day or something more hearty like the wonderful statement dish Chicken Tagine ($60 for two) served in a traditional Moroccan tagine with preserved lemons, dates, olives and capers – one of the best tagines we have had in a while!
White Marble, 1 Tanglin Road, #01-09, Orchard Rendezvous Hotel

USD Cafe – Upside Down Café

Looking for a quirky new café to take the kids to? USD Cafe is the first upside down cafe in Singapore full of fun photo opportunities thanks to all the café furnishings arranged upside down! Everything from the paintings on the walls to the tables and chairs are hanging upside down from the ceiling (so you’ll need to rotate your photos 180 degrees after taking pics to create that upside-down gravity-defying illusion!) Don’t worry though, there are proper tables and chairs to sit on while you sip on speciality Ipoh white coffee ($7.50) and dine on Avocado Sour Cream Toast ($12) and Portuguese Egg Tarts ($3.50).
USD Cafe – Upside Down Café, within Santa Grand Hotel, 171 East Coast Road, Singapore

Roberta’s Pizza

Brooklyn cult pizza house, Roberta’s Pizza opens its first international outlet at Marina Bay Sands. Head to this 44-seat restaurant for Neapolitan-inspired 12 inch pizzas made in an Italian wood-burning oven. The full pizza and salad menu of the original Roberta’s restaurant will be offered including the Famous Original ($26), and Cheesus Christ ($28) with taleggio, parmigiano, black pepper and cream. Look out for the Bee Sting pizza ($28) topped with mozzarella and salami then drizzled with honey. No reservations!
Roberta’s Pizza, B1-45/46, Galleria Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Willow

By the time you read this, it may be too late to book a counter seat at new kappo-style restaurant Willow. We hear that the 10 seater chef’s counter experience where you get up close to the binchotan and plating action, is already fully booked till May (you may still be able to bag a table instead). Helmed by Chef Nicholas Tam (Esora, Robuchon and Zen) Willow is one of the newest restaurants on Hong Kong Street. The daily changing menu is pan Asian with lunch starting at $148++, and dinner from $198++. Your menu might include multiple fine dining snacks like uni on homemade toast, followed by A4 Japanese Wagyu Zabuton and Ochazuke rice porridge, or charcoal-grilled Iberico Presa.
Willow, 39, Hong Kong Street, Singapore

Gary’s Restaurant

Gary’s Restaurant, founded by Singaporean chef Gary Wu, has opened its doors in a two-storey black-and-white colonial bungalow in Rochester Park. The cuisine is upscale Italian with Japanese influences – from Hokkaido Scallop Crudo with Ginger Ponzu Dressing ($20) to perfectly cooked Squid Ink Pasta with Bamboo Clams ($28), and comforting Lobster Risotto ($38). The menu spans meat and seafood from whole Salt Crusted Wild Caught Seabass with Confit Potato and Grilled Seasonal Vegetables, to Lamb Rack with Mushroom, Baby Corn, Asparagus and Polenta Purée. They also do a good value set lunch from three courses at $38 which includes free coffee or tea.
Gary’s, 41 Rochester Drive, Singapore 138582

OMMA Korean Charcoal BBQ

OMMA is Singapore’s first wood-fire Korean Charcoal BBQ and impressively it is pretty smokeless too so you won’t leave your meal smelling like you’ve been camping! Get a Beef OMMA Set ($95 for 2-3 pax) with Ribs, Beef Brisket, and Beef Striploin. Grill your meats to your liking on the grill and dip in the ssamjang sauce. There’s also a Pork Set ($60) or chicken set, Army Stew ($38), a huge amount of a la carte dishes or something pretty affordable – the Beef OMMA Value Set ($76, valid from Mondays to Thursday) which also comes Beef Rib, a choice of Soup, Steamed Egg and a freeflow of banchan – Korean side dishes and pickles.
OMMA Korean Charcoal BBQ – Bukit Timah, 20 Cheong Chin Nam Road, Singapore 599744

Baker X: Home bakers like Egg Sugar Butter at new cafe

Have you heard of Baker X? An initiative, by Far East Organization, Baker X is a physical baking studio and café in Orchard Central where home-based bakers can take up residency to showcase their goodies! Bakers work in a fully equipped baking studio and café, a physical space provided to them at no cost, over a period of 2 to 6 weeks to bake and sell. The cafe also houses social enterprise Foreword Coffee Roasters, which opens daily. Currently in residence from 3 -15 May is Egg Sugar Butter (@eggsugarbutter), offering a variety of cakes and pastries crafted with French pastry techniques and Japanese sensibilities for light textures and unique flavours. Highlights include Japanese-style fresh cream cakes, fresh fruit shortcakes, roll cakes, as well as refreshing fruit tarts.
Baker X, 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central #04-29, Singapore 238896

Les Bouchons new Steak Frites restaurant at Rochester

Steak lovers will know Les Bouchons for their value-for-money Steak Frites. The good news is that you can now get your dose of meaty French cuisine west-side in the lush Rochester Park area. Set in a black-and-white bungalow Les Bouchons at Rochester Commons boasts an alfresco seating area and a pétanque court – we can see ourselves having a petite game of French boules with an ice-cold pastis here! As well as the signature steaks you can get French dishes exclusive to this outlet like Terrine de Foie Gras “Maison” (Foie Gras Terrine) and French Ceps Soup with Truffle Oil, excellent Plats and À Partager, and other French classics! A small kids menu of Mini Beef Burger, French Fries and Fresh Fruit Juice ($12) and Chicken Nuggets, French Fries and Fresh Fruit Juice ($12) is also available.
Les Bouchons, 10 Rochester Park, Rochester Commons, Singapore

Rosemead: New Californian restaurant – EDITOR’S PICK!

Rosemead is the talk of the town right now. This new modern Californian restaurant by Executive Chef David Tang and the award-winning Jigger & Pony Group is housed in a 1920s heritage building along Cecil Street (where The Black Swan used to be). Rosemead boasts an open-hearth kitchen and a roaring fire for roasting meats. Expect upmarket dishes with beautiful presentation: Grassfed Wagyu Tartare ($52), Mangrove Crab Tartine ($33), Slow-Cooked Kagoshima Short Rib ($85) and Whole Roast Chicken ($80) with winter black truffles. They’ve just launched a new lunch menu and we highly recommend this light-filled airy spot for a sophisticated mid-day chow of Chicken salad with pickled ginger dressing, Tuna crudo and if it’s Friday, maybe one of the cocktails that Jigger & Pony are famous for!
Rosemead, 19 Cecil Street, Singapore

NOX – Dine in the Dark is back!

NOX – Dine in the Dark closed for a while but it is back at a new location on Club Street. For those who don’t know, NOX offers a daring dining concept where you eat in a pitch-black dining room (yup, no candles, no phone lights, nada!). You’ll be guided by visually impaired hosts, and there will be 12 dishes spanning three courses ($88 per pax), with an optional add-on for wine, mocktails or cocktail pairings conceptualised by Sam Wong of Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall. You won’t know what you are eating beforehand but there’s a full debrief after your dinner. Who is feeling adventurous to try this?
NOX – Dine in the Dark, 83 Club Street, Singapore 069451

Caviar: New restaurant dedicated to sturgeon roe

Lovers of caviar, there’s a restaurant where you can eat sturgeon roe on practically every dish of the multi-course set menus (yes even the desserts and petit fours). Caviar is a fine dining intimate restaurant (it only seats 28) in the basement of Palais Renaissance. Sit up at the dining counter where tins of Kaluga Queen Crossbreed, Giaveri Oscietra and Polanco Siberian caviar are perched on ice, as the chefs, led by 28-year-old Head Chef Karleen Kasim prep the dishes. There’s a seven-course Spring Menu ($288++) for dinner, a four-course Executive Lunch menu ($128++) and an all-day Sunday Brunch Menu ($198++). Amuse-bouche from the Spring menu comprises three offerings including Corn Manchego Croquette topped with Giaveri White Sturgeon. A delicate starter follows of swordfish with abalone, kohlrabi and Arctic Char Roe while mains include Welsh Dorper Lamb with Goat’s Curd, Truffle Jus and Jerusalem Artichoke chips.
Caviar, 390 Orchard Road, Palais Renaissance, #B1-07, Singapore 238871,

Rempapa: New restaurant by Damian D’Silva

Rempapa: Chef D’Silva’s new restaurant – EDITOR’s PICK!

Chef Damian D’Silva (MasterChef Singapore judge and local hero Chef) has a new restaurant called Rempapa – the name comes from ‘rempah’, Malay for ‘spice paste’ and ‘papa’ given Chef Damian is the grandaddy of heritage cuisine. This all-day dining restaurant is fresh and brightly lit inside (with more ambient vibes alfresco) and offers elevated one-dish heritage hawker dishes, as well as family-style sharing plates that bring together flavours from Chinese, Peranakan, Eurasian, Indian and Malay kitchens. Dubbed ‘Singapore new heritage cuisine’, highlights include Sri Lankan Chicken Curry with String Hoppers ($16) delicate lacy string hoppers to mop up a very saucy curry paired wonderfully with a sweet tangy Tomato Chutney, Stir-fried Chee Cheong Fun ($13), Nasi Lemak with Fish / Chicken ($17) with quadruple steamed coconut rice, Lamb Leg Rendang and the Kedondong Salad with ginger flower. Rempapa is just across from Paya Lebar Quarters, at Park Palace Residences.
Rempapa, 2 Paya Lebar Road, Park Place Residences at PLQ, #01-01/02/03, Singapore 409053

KOAL: by Les Amis Group – EDITOR’s PICK!

If it’s affordable, good quality meat and seafood dishes you are after, head on over to new grill KOAL within the Shaw centre. The vibes are all dark woods and red LED lights at this new restaurant by Les Amis Group. On the menu, a range of open-flame grilled meats and seafood in Asian and Western flavours. If you’re someone who needs to pace themself, I’ll warn you now, save room for the amazing Freshly Fried Donuts filled with either Raspberry Coulis & Cheesecake Mousse or Nutella & Banana Mousse for dessert. You won’t regret it! Now back to the savoury dishes: highlights include the fresh Salmon Sashimi with Coriander Green Chili Dressing ($12), the tender Grassfed Rib Eye ($25), and Crispy Pork Riblets with Mala Honey ($16). Mop up the sauces with a dinner exclusive, KOAL’s Bread Rolls with Bacon and Grilled Spring Onions, Sour Cream and Chive Butter ($8). We hear KOAL does a mean set lunch too – think Rice Bowls like the Iberico Collar ($26), Grilled Chicken Leg ($22) and Salmon Fillet ($30) over Japanese Rice with an Onsen Egg and a choice of a Starter and Dessert.
KOAL, Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road, #03-09/10/11 Singapore 228208

new restaurant dempsey claudine — Image: Claudine Restaurant

Claudine Restaurant by Odette Chef

Julien Royer (Chef-Owner of 3 Michelin-starred Odette) together with The Lo & Behold Group opens their new concept in Dempsey – Claudine Restaurant, in the super location of defunct The White Rabbit set in a 1930s-era conservation building. Claudine promises a relaxed style of dining with à la carte French classics like Onion Soup, Crispy Pork Trotters, Charcuterie Boards, and the classic Vol-Au-Vent ($58) of puff pastry filled with veal sweetbread, cockscomb, chicken quenelle and morel covered in a velvety mushroom creamy sauce. Order a sharing plate to eat family style – Kampot Pepper Steak Flambe with bone marrow and frites ($158) – or the Claudine Bouillabaise ($158) of John Dory, scallops, razor clams, mussels and other seafood. Royer will be based mostly out of his flagship venue, Odette, but he will be working closely with the Claudine team.
Claudine Restaurant, 39C Harding Rd, Dempsey, Singapore 249541

Aether House: New French bistro

New French-inspired bistro and wine bar Aether House sits daintily on the ground floor of SO/ Sofitel. Look forward to petits plats (small plates) like Baked Escargot ($18), Marinated Artichoke ($14), Octopus Carpaccio ($24), and Foie Gras Sourdough Toast ($32) to go with your choice of wine by the glass.
Aether House, #01-05/06/07, 35 Robinson Road, Singapore 068876

Binary: dual Western /Asian approach

Binary is a new gastro bar with a unique binary approach to its cuisine. Each dish has a star ingredient that can be cooked with Asian or Western flavours. Take the Octopus dish ($18) – you can have it with Pesto alla Genovese or doused in “lao gan ma” chilli (+$10) – the latter was so good! If you fancy shellfish the Tiger Prawns can come as the Spanish classic tapas gambas al ajillo, or as prawn fritters with togarashi mayonnaise. Mains ($38 each) include Iberico Pluma in Argentine chimichurri or Korean gochujang. Situated on the ground floor of Palais Renaissance mall, Binary affords a decent position to sip on a Spice It Up cocktail ($24) on the Orchard Rd alfresco terrace while watching the world go by.
Binary, #01-01, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Road, Singapore 238871

So France Orchard: New French Restaurant Orchard Towers

So France opens a second French bistro at Orchard Towers. As with the Duo Galleria So France, this new spot comprises an alfresco area, an indoor restaurant and a grocery store selling French gourmet goodies. These guys do an affordable set lunch – 2 courses $28 / 3 courses $32 – with a choice of starter or soup for an appetiser, a fish or meat for main course and dessert. So France also does good sharing platters of charcuterie, salads (Quinoa salad, Steak salad) and their version of a Croque Monsieur.
So France Orchard, 1 Claymore Drive, Orchard Tower, Singapore 229594

GelatiAmo: New gelato café

Craving some of the cold stuff? GelatiAmo is a new gelato café by Chef Loris of Ristorante Pietrasanta. Located in the same mall in one-north, GelatiAmo serves up authentic gelato (no premixes, colouring, or preservatives here) and doughnuts. Ice cream flavours range from a nutty Pistachio to Salted Butterscotch, Earl Grey and even a refreshing Strawberry Cream Cheese or the intriguing Mascarpone Aged Balsamic (from $4.20 for a single scoop). Have your gelato in a waffle cone, cup or alongside a cinnamon-coated doughnut ($6.50).
GelatiAmo, 1 Fusionopolis Way, Connexis #B1-11, Singapore 138632,

Kilo reopens in Duxton

Kilo has reopened at Duxton! We are so happy to have this spot back for great vibes and delicious Latin American bites of ceviche, padron peppers, crispy calamari and squid aioli, grilled meats and seafood. They now also do a neat two-course set lunch at $32 featuring dishes like ceviche and grilled seabass (add on $5 for coffee and a sweet).
Kilo Singapore, 97 Duxton Road, Singapore 089541

Marguerite

Chef-Owner Michael Wilson has joined forces with Unlisted Collection to give us Marguerite – a low-lit fine dining restaurant perched on the outer shell of the Flower Dome with views out to the water. Dress up and book ahead! This refined spot looks promising if Michael Wilson’s other venture the casual cafe Mylo’s is anything to go by. Expect a 7-course tasting menu of contemporary cuisine featuring Foie gras cornetto to start; Smoked eel with oyster leaf, horseradish ice cream, and amur caviar; Ōra King Salmon; and Black Angus beef with chanterelle mushroom jus among other courses. The Chef’s Menu is $228++ with the optional add-on of a Wine pairing $198++ Open for dinner only for now. Call ahead and you’ll be picked up by the complimentary buggy service (for prior reservations only).
Marguerite, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, #01-09 Flower Dome, Tel: (+65) 6604 9988

Burnt Ends, Dempsey

Chef-Owner Dave Pynt’s one-Michelin starred Burnt Ends (it’s also #5 on the 2021 San Pellegrino Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List) has moved to Dempsey. Burnt Ends restaurant is heaps bigger than before and also has a bakery on site.
Burnt Ends, 7 Dempsey Rd, Singapore

Alegria

You’ll find Alegria off buzzing Keong Saik Rd. This new restaurant and bar specialises in Latin Asian cuisine reinvented with Asian influences. We love the moody interiors and the graffiti art on one wall, the Latin beats playing (hurrah for music back in restaurants!) Explore the fun cocktails and then tuck into the inventive food. The Nacho ($16) is a huge masa chip made in-house topped with prawns, cheese and tarragon leaves, served with a Salsa Rioja dip. Always a win, the Elote ($15) sees charred corn with Cottija and crackling chicharon; Ceviche ($22) is reinvented with tuna, scallop, and mango in refreshing coconut lime, ponzu, served with wasabi tobiko. The menu spans Tacos each carrying distinctive flavours of different cuisines from Korea to the Philippines, to mains like the tender Pulpo ($40) of sous vide then grilled octopus. However desserts were the standouts: Taho At Queso ($18), a very pretty beancurd cheesecake and the Churros ($14), made fresh in-house – amazingly light and fluffy inside – some of the best we have tried in Singapore – served with an exceedingly good homemade Dulce de Leche.
Alegria, 18 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088390

thirty six brewery — New brewery: Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse:

Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse: EDITOR’s PICK!

Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse (taking over from the defunct Little Creatures space) is a new local craft brewery by Lion Brewery Co. Part microbrewery part restaurant – this spot makes a fun place to gather for craft beer-lovers (think Raspberry Beer-et (ABV 4.6%), a Berliner Weisse with bright raspberry flavours or the quirky purple-hued Violet No-Regard (ABV 5.8%, Purple Ale) using local butterfly-pea flower. Open-flame cooking is the name of the game here – think Grilled Black Tiger Prawns ($20) and Spicy Pork Belly Satay ($16) to start. Their Crusted Calamari ($14) and Scotch Egg ($10) make great beer bites – the latter sees Nduja, sausage and impossible meat hugging a boiled egg that’s been crispy fried and served with housemade sriracha mayo – literally lip-smacking! There’s a huge range of gastro bar-style mains from Sticky BBQ Pork Ribs to Wood Fired Cauliflower ($25) marinated with turmeric and ginger, steamed and grilled with cashew nut butter and leek miso. Good to know: you can pay for a tour of the microbrewery that’s visible from the bar counter with its 23 taps.
Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse, 36 Club Street Singapore 069469, Tel: (+65) 6239 0350

The Great Mischief

The Great Mischief has moved from Little India to The National Gallery. If you’re looking for a cute nook to take flat lays of that flat white – this could be the spot. We have a little style crush on this new halal cafe with its pastel-hued blues, gold accents, and scallop chairs. The menu is Catalan-inspired but we see everything from sandwiches (avocado, peas, pickled shallots and chilli) to small plates of Turkey Croquetas to spicy Patatas Bravas and for mains – Battered Snapper and Fries ($20), Half Roasted Chicken ($24) and Fried Chicken waffles ($20). The dinner menu is a set from $59 where you can choose a selection of four tapas, one main and one dessert. As this is a halal spot no alcohol is served.
The Great Mischief #01-17 National Gallery, 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore, 178957

new cafes singapore — Image credit: Revolver

Revolver: EDITOR’S PICK!

A sleek black and chrome wood-fired grill awaits at Revolver on Tras St. Expect modern Indian flavours using international ingredients in three set menus – the 8-course Discovery menu at $139, the 9-course Experience menu ($199) and Vegetarian menus ($129++). Grab an intimate leather booth spot or sit at the counter where you can eyeball the action at bincho grills. Highlights include Stuffed Courgette Flowers, charred, juicy Lobster with Pepper Garlic Butter, the three-day marinated charred Magra Lamb Chops, and the Smoked Aubergine atop a crusty Gruyère Kulchette (like a stuffed naan oozing morish umami gooey smokey deliciousness).
Revolver, 56 Tras St

new cafe Mylo's dog-friendly — Image credit: Mylo’s

Mylo’s: EDITOR’S PICK!

Mylo’s is a new gelato café in Gardens by the Bay that’s kid-friendly (well they’re selling ice cream after all) and dog-friendly too. Set right next to the Active Garden near the outdoor musical instruments and exercise equipment, this bright café serves bakes, coffee, affogato and alcoholic drinks – but it’s the artisanal handcrafted gelato that is the star of the show. Hidden in the Pozzetti display are 20 different gelatos (from $5) in fantastic flavours from rich pistachio to smoked maple bacon gelato. We highly recommend the apple pie gelato (everything you love in baked apple pie – pie crust, spiced apples and crumble all in gelato form) ask for it in a warm toasty brioche bun ($8) – ice cream sandwiches just went next level! Don’t miss the chance to try their unusual affogatos – we loved the vanilla and himalayan pink salt gelato ($10) drowned in Papa’s Grove Extra Virgin Olive Oil, honey and topped with fennel pollen. Pups will be happy with homemade doggie biscuits peanut butter and beef bone broth popsicles!
Mylo’s, 18 Marina Gardens Drive

boCHINche has moved!

Argentinian steakhouse boCHINche, helmed by Chef Fabrice has moved to a new hood at Club Street. Expect a meat feast charred to perfection on their famous jarrah charcoal grill that flanks the entire length of the restaurant. The new menu is designed to bring the old steakhouse experience to the modern age and features grass-fed beef imported directly from Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, USA and Japan, with some cuts being dry-aged in-house. Highlights include Devesa’ Argentinian grain-fed OP RIB ($22 for 100g) and Bone-In Vintage Galiciana Striploin ($140 for 400g), dry-aged for 38 days with a marble beef score of 3+. Don’t miss the Italian Burrata ($29) contrasted with fermented tomatoes, Hand Cut Chips “Provençal” ($10), and the Roast Cauliflower ($15). Don’t tell everyone about the super value lunch deal – 2 courses for $36, 3 courses for $44 – it includes Rib Eye Steak and Chips plus other options and no surcharges!
boCHINche, 27 Club Street

new cafe CMC — Image credit: Via CMC Facebook @uncletehpeng

Chin Mee Chin Confectionery reopens

Historical Chin Mee Chin Confectionery closed in 2018 but it’s now been given a new lease of life thanks to the Ebb & Flow Group. Chin Mee Chin flung open its doors again last month with a refreshed menu designed by the group’s pastry chef Maxine Ngooi (of Tigerlily Patisserie) together with the confectionery’s original owner’s family members. If you are nostalgic for the bakes from the good ole days, head over to check out their kaya buns that are still split and toasted over charcoal, plus other goodies like cheesecake brownies, gula Melaka coffee chiffon cake slices, and hae bee hiam buns. Looks-wise, this spot still retains much of its old-world charm with the original flooring, wall tiles, marble-topped tables and classic coffee shop chairs.
Chin Mee Chin, 204 East Coast Rd

North Miznon

First there was Miznon with its pillowy stuffed pita breads. Now a new sister restaurant has been opened by Celebrity Israeli MasterChef judge Eyal Shahi – North Miznon, a more upmarket restaurant serving Israeli cuisine. We hear good things about the slow-roasted cabbage ($23), and the signature focaccia with tomatoes, onions and green chillies plus there are seasonal offerings like slices of octopus or beef, draped over mall boulders ($47) and the Naked Heirloom Tomato Mosaic of sliced thinly tomatoes and arranged on a slab of marbled rock, carpaccio-style.
North Miznon, 01-01, 110 Amoy St

Club Street Wine Room

Club Street Wine Room opens, the first wine bar by Andrew Walsh the Chef behind CURE, Butcher Boy and CATFISH. Think interesting wines like the Sea Soul No. 4 ($405), a sea-aged wine where bottles are submerged underwater for months at a time to aid fermentation. The food ranges from Aged T-bone 500g with beef fat frites ($84) to Whole Turbot with café de paris butter ($54) or more casual bites like Grilled Welsh Rarebit ($22).
Club Street Wine Room, 87 Club Street, Tel: (+65) 6970 0190

Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen

Griglia, by the same peeps behind Zafferano, celebrates fresh seasonal produce cooked over charcoal – think Grilled Turbot (from $58), Dry-aged Porterhouse ($128) prepped Florentine-style, together with other Italian staples from Burratina to Beef Tartare, and a selection of artisanal salumi and cheeses. Griglia can be found on the ground level of a 3-storey conservation shophouse along Craig Road.
Griglia Open Fire Italian Kitchen, 37 Craig Rd

Read more: Newest Restaurant Openings in 2022

Hortus

Fennel Cafe in the Flower Dome is no more – in its place is the casual restaurant café Hortus serving Mediterranean-inspired sharing plates that celebrate flavours from Greece to Turkey. At the helm is Chef-owner Michael Wilson (the man behind sister resto Marguerite – the fine dining establishment downstairs from Hortus). First off, you’ll be picked up by the complimentary buggy service (for prior reservations only) and you’ll get access to the Flower Dome before or after your meal! Look forward to small plates of Amberjack Crudo ($22) dressed with pomegranate and herbs, refreshingly bright Watermelon salad ($15), Coal roasted sweet potato ($15), wood-fried Fremantle octopus with green harissa sauce ($32) and garlicky chilli Venus Clams ($35). Bring a jumper – the climate-controlled Flower Dome will make you feel like you’re in the Med (in the winter!)
Hortus, #01-09, Flower Dome, 18 Marina Gardens Dr Singapore 018953

Drunken Farmer

Drunken Farmer, by Spa Esprit Group, brings its natural wine and sourdough-focused menu to the Joo Chiat neighbourhood on the East Coast. By day this spot is Common Man Coffee Roasters – and by night it turns into a natural wine bar and bistro Drunken Farmer. The menu consists of family-friendly dishes like Sharing Spread Platters of pita bread with a trio of avocado cream, pumpkin hummus and seeds praline to sourdough pizzas with deliciously different toppings.
Drunken Farmer, 185 Joo Chiat Road, Tel: +65 6877 4884

Casa Restaurant by Remy Lefebvre: EDITOR’S PICK!

This elegant contemporary restaurant in Chijmes is helmed by Chef Remy Lefebvre who focuses on cooking with woodfire, using ingredients that are line-caught, responsibly sourced, and organic. Seafood (which Chef Remy ages himself) and vegetables are the stars here and the menu is largely gluten- and dairy-free. Dishes include dry-aged wagyu on the bone; a Japanese take on smoked ‘gambero rosso’ red prawns; and line cod served with cashew nut milk and finished with sake. For lunch and dinner, Casa offers the 4- course Discovery menu for $118; the 6- course Experience menu for $198; and the Carte Blanche with 8-courses for $258. For lunch only, the restaurant offers an executive menu, called ‘Trust Me’ – a 3-course at $88. Worth the splurge!
Casa Restaurant by Remy Lefebvre, 30 Victoria Street, Unit #01-20 Chijmes, Tel: (+65) 9722 8171

Nixta: new Mexican restaurant

Nixta is the latest concept from the Travis Masiero Restaurant Group (the same people behind Blue Label Pizza and Luke’s Oyster Bar). This new Mexican restaurant has salsas made by hand in volcanic stone molcajetes – they even grind fresh masa for their signature corn tortillas. Chow down on tostadas made with tuna ($10) or sweet potato ($8), then plump for sharing platters of woodfired meats like slow roasted duck in aromatic hoja santa leaves ($48) or the Nixta Signature Spit & Herb-Roasted Chicken ($65). Do. Not. Miss. the Churros ($16)!
Nixta Mexican Grill & Bar – 116 Amoy Street, Singapore 069936

Read more: Best New Restaurants of 2020

Firangi Superstar: new modern Indian: EDITOR’S PICK!

Firangi Superstar is a modern Indian restaurant by The Dandy Collection. There are four rooms: the Officer’s Club, Old Railway Room, Elephant Palace and Jungle Lodge taking inspiration from Indian cities like Kashmir and Chennai with fittings and furnishings that exude a vintage film set. The food here is not Indian as you know it, but Indian through another lens – and is designed to be ‘A Foreigner’s Love Letter To India’. Menu sections consist of chutneys and raitas, small and large plates, rice and bread, and desserts. Just over half the menu is vegetarian. Highlights include the intriguing ‘This Is Not Aloo Gobi’ ($16) featuring cauliflower served three ways, and ‘Prata Waffle ???’ (no that’s not a typo) which is actually a fun take on the American favourite, Chicken & Waffles. Chef Thiru reinterprets this dish as Madras-style fried chicken with curry leaves and garlic, on a waffle-pressed prata served with butter chicken gravy. Don’t miss the Indian inspired cocktails!
Firangi Superstar, #01-03, 20 Craig Road, Singapore 089692

new restaurant NAEUM — Image: NAE:UM by John Heng Da

NAE:UM: Contemporary Seoul

NAE:UM is the inaugural restaurant by Chef Louis Han (who was previously at Meta Restaurant and also the Head Chef at KIMME). NAE:UM offers contemporary Seoul cuisine with menu sets designed to be ‘episodic, each showcasing a different food story or inspiration in Chef Louis’s personal journey’. The five-course set ($148++) might feature Mulhwae, a cold and spicy Korean raw fish soup, gochujang-glazed Irish duck breast and steamed red snapper alongside two other courses, with two supplementary courses available for a surcharge.
NAE:UM, 161 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068 615, Tel: (+65) 8830 5016

Terra Madre

Terra Madre, organic store and restaurant opens in Dempsey! You’ll find this spot tucked away at Loewen next to Swish and Invictus. A simple cafe-restaurant offering breakfast (healthy bowls and toasties) as well as lunch and dinner. If you are inspired to cook after sampling the food here don’t miss the organic store next door! The lunch menu at Terra Madre offers the option to mix-and-match dishes – so choose a salad or veggie to start and then add a protein (surcharge for some). You might go for the Baked Butternut and Quinoa ($28) and add on Spiced Veg Fritters or Kurobuta Berkshire Pork Skewers (+$5) or try the spicy crunchy Asian Slaw ($25) with Gochujang Baked Salmon (+$5). Drinks-wise there are superfood smoothies, slow pressed juices, kombucha and even organic coffee from Australia.
Terra Madre, 71 Loewen Rd

Flow Bar

Jag, the one-Michelin-starred French restaurant has a new bar called Flow Bar sequestered away on its second-floor. Master-mixologist Ricky Paiva (the man behind the launch of successful bars like multi-award-winning Manhattan Bar) has curated a cocktail menu divided into three different sections: Living Room (reinterpretations of original classics), Garden (made with seasonal fruit and herbs) and Playground (some of Ricky Paiva’s ‘naughtiest creations’). We have a soft spot for the Dark & Stormie ($24) a Flor De Cana 12yo rum-based drink or try the Burnt Lemon Whisky Sour ($24). What we love about this bar is the lack of pretentiousness despite the sleek digs and having access to Michelin-starred nibbles (all made in the Jag kitchen!) Whatever you fancy drinking the bartenders will do their best to create even if it’s not on the menu. Snacks-wise the Heirloom Tomato salad is divine or there’s Artichoke Hummus studded with roasted hazelnuts, Charcuterie Platters and even desserts.
Flow Bar, Level 2, 76A Duxton Rd

Common Man Coffee Roasters Joo Chiat

Common Man Coffee Roasters Joo Chiat (or if you are into acronyms, because, SG, then CMCR JC) now brings some of our favourite coffee to Easties. What’s new at this outlet is the dedicated filter coffee brewing bar where you can get your fix of CMCR’s seasonal rotation of regional single-origin coffee – of particular worthy mention – the limited-release ‘Cup Of Excellence’ coffee, exclusive to CMCR JC. The Boledu #COE 21 Ethiopia ($9) is a deliciously fruity number – with notes of tropical and dried fruits, and a sweet, warming mulled wine-like quality. Foodwise CMCR JC offers classic all-day breakfast like the Common Man Full Breakfast ($29) with two free range organic eggs, bacon, sausage, and housemade hashbrowns and chorizo beans as well as salads like the Green Quinoa Salad ($23), burgers, sandwiches and mains like the Grilled Chilli Chicken ($28).
Common Man Coffee Roasters Joo Chiat, 185 Joo Chiat Road

Wild Child Pizzette: new pizzeria

From the folks behind Cicheti and Bar Cicheti comes a new pizzeria and bar concept, Wild Child Pizzette serving up Neapolitan style pizzette cooked in a woodfired oven. Pizzette means little pizzas so expect a menu dedicated to 10-inch pizzas (four slices to nibble on). That means you can order more and try lots of different toppings – of which there will be fun contemporary options – think Tuscan kale, garlic confit, lemon, fior di latte or how about fried pizza dough (!) with semi-dried san marzano and stracciatella? Plus antipasti and homemade desserts to go alongside wild wines, ancient sakes and funky craft beers.
Wild Child Pizzette, 50 Circular Road, Singapore 049405

Eggslut Singapore: new fast-casual restaurant

Get egg-cited for Eggslut Singapore! LA-based Eggslut brings their famed egg sandwiches to SG; the signature “Slut” dish of eggs muddled with mashed potatoes served with sliced baguette for eggy dipping; and the Eggslut Fairfax burger, of a brioche bun stuffed with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, caramelised onions, spicy sriracha mayonnaise.
Eggslut Singapore, #01-12, Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Road, Singapore 228209

new cafes and new restaurants in singapore — New French brasserie Clos Pasoh

Clos Pasoh: new French brasserie

Clos Pasoh is a new French brasserie with dreamy décor (heart eyes for the green and gold hues, and those rattan dining chairs by Singapore designer Ong Shunmugam). Co-owner chef Louis Pacquelin cooks up accessible brasserie dishes from duck rillettes with foie gras, and chargrilled sourdough ($18) to sharing dishes like pot eu feu (beef stew, $138 serves 2-3), and tête de veau (calf brain, served in a crispy wonton) $12. The set lunch looks a steal at $42 for 2 courses and $49 for 3 courses.
Clos Pasoh, Level 2, 48A Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089859

Bali on the Cove: new Sentosa Cove café

Bali on the Cove is the latest addition to Sentosa Quayside Isle, bringing with it a little sip of Bali. The new space is made up of a cafe, a retail boutique selling homeware from Bali and Java, and a co-working space. The café has alfresco seating (great for families and pet owners) where you can enjoy a coffee (beans are from Common Man Coffee Roasters) and order brunch from Eggs Benedict on Sourdough with Bacon, Papaya Chia Pudding to pastries from Starter Lab.
Bali On The Cove, Sentosa Cove, Quayside Isle, #01-16, Singapore 098375

Coriander Leaf: new branch

Newly opened at the Singapore Polo Club, you can look forward to eating alfresco at the verandah and watch polo practice sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings! The menu is made up of Asian communal style sharing plates – our top picks have to be the Chicken Haleem & Naan (oh, the naan… so good!), Nonya Assam and Butter Prawns – Asian inspired cocktails as well as mocktails using non-alcoholic spirits like Melati and Lyre’s. All meat is sourced from halal suppliers (no pork or pork products on the menu) and there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too. Coriander Leaf Singapore Polo Club is open to members of the public for dinner on Tuesdays to Fridays.
Coriander Leaf, 80 Mount Pleasant Road, Singapore, Tel: (+65) 9773 1207

Tapas, 24: EDITOR’S PICK!

Tapas, 24 has just opened on Rob Quay (taking over the space occupied by defunct Summerlong)! Tapas, 24 is an award-winning restaurant by Chef Carles Abellán – in fact it’s one of Barcelona’s hottest dining destinations! There’s a fun buzzy atmosphere and tempting Sangria and Spanish cocktails (that also come in jugs!). Highlights include the “Tapas 24” Bikini Sandwich ($16) with black truffles, Ibérico ham and buffalo mozzarella; the total umami powerhouse paella de Gambas Al Ajillo ($40) and the Clams in Sherry with Artichoke, garlic and a kick of chilli ($32).
Tapas, 24, 60 Robertson Quay, #01-04, Singapore 238252

Blu Kouzina Siglap: new Greek restaurant in East

We may not be able to go abroad at the moment but the F&B industry is really pulling out all the stops to give us a taste of the world! Missing Greek islands and the amazing Mediterranean cuisine? Blu Kouzina just opened in Siglap to bring authentic Greek cuisine to Easties! Sporting trademark blue and white colours, this new restaurant has all the Santorini vibes. Pull up a pew and tuck into Grilled Pita ($3.90) with dips like Labna ($16.80), Hummus ($15.80), or the spicy feta Tirokafteri Dip ($17.80). We love the grilled seafood and meats here – lamb chops ($39.80) is always a winner!
Blu Kouzina Siglap, 907 East Coast Road, #01-01, Singapore, 459107, Tel: (+65) 9101 0681

Tigerlily Patisserie: new café in East

Tigerlily Patisserie (part of the Ebb & Flow Group) opens a physical space in Joo Chiat after the popularity of their online bake-box business. Local pastry chef Maxine Ngooi (previously the Head Pastry Chef of Michelin-starred Vianney Massot Restaurant) helms the small and popular café (expect queues at peak periods). The main draw here is the stunning cakes and entremets though they do savoury items like Tomato and Artichoke Tart ($7) and sandwiches like the Monsieur Kim ($15) grilled croque monsieur with kimchi and ham; and Salmon Tzatziki Ciabatta ($14) in housemade bread. Save lots of room for the pretty cakes – we fell in love with the Pink Guava & Pear ($10) dessert and The Beehive ($11), a Tigerlily signature of lemon, thyme and litchi honey jelly with light lemon sponge encased in yuzu mousse. Stunning!
Tigerlily Patisserie, 350 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427598

La Fez Bakery & Café: New Moroccan café

Love you some pink? Halal La Fez Bakery & Café has all the IG-feels with its Moorish architecture and pastel pink décor (a nod to the ‘Rose city of Marrakech’. On the menu, Moroccan dishes from brunch items like Majorelle Shakshuka with Feta Cheese ($19.90), Baghrir Pancakes ($15.90), and Kasbah Brioche French Toast ($18.90) to lunch/dinner bites like Marrakech Dip Platters and Vegetarian Tagine cooked in traditional Moroccan earthenware.
La Fez Cafe & Bakery, #01-03A, 907 East Coast Road, Singapore 459107

Basque Kitchen by Aitor

Basque Kitchen by Aitor helmed by Chef-Patron Aitor Jeronimo Orive, is back after a brief hiatus! Find them at the historic Fullerton Waterboat House. Head to the pintxos bar and lounge for drinks and nibbles or head to the dining room, for a Basque gastronomic experience with a tasting menu offered exclusively for lunch and dinner (from $158++ for lunch to $248++ for dinner).
Basque Kitchen by Aitor, 3 Fullerton Rd, #02-01/02/03 The Fullerton Waterboat House, Singapore 049215

sen-ryo: new Japanese restaurant at ION

Japan import sen-ryo opens its first Singapore outlet in ION Orchard, using quality ingredients imported from Toyosu Fish Market and around the world. The swish sake bar greets you on entry, choose to dine here, in one of the private rooms or at the grill counter (where you can see the artisan chefs at work). Highlights on the menu include the DIY Hokkaido Uni ($58) featuring 50 grams of sweet uni (sea urchin) from Hokkaido with fresh sushi rice, ikura and sheets of roasted seaweed so you can wrap your own maki!
sen-ryo, ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, #03-14, Singapore 238801

Mr. Holmes Bakehouse: new cruffin café

‘Cruffin’ creators San Francisco-based bakery Mr. Holmes Bakehouse debuts in Singapore! A ‘Cruffin’ for those who aren’t quite sure, is a hybrid croissant with a flaky, sugar-dusted and cream-filled croissant baked in the shape of a muffin. This new 41-seater bakery-café on the ground floor of Pacific Plaza is where to head for donuts, croissants and those delicious cruffins. And we are talking flavours like Tiramisu Cream and Mini Choc chip cruffins, Bacon Jalapeno Danishes and Matcha and Lemon Meringue Pie croissants! We hear queues are epic so don’t get your hopes up.
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse Singapore, 9 Scotts Rd, 01-01/02/03 Pacific Plaza, Singapore 228210

Permata Singapore: new Halal restaurant

The iconic yellow heritage building in the heart of Kampong Glam finally has a new restaurant within its premises! Muslim owned Permata Singapore offers over 60 elevated Nusantara-inspired dishes for both lunch and dinner. Prices are from $42++/pax for the weekday lunch menu. Good to know: there’s a prayer room located on site too.
Permata Singapore, 73 Sultan Gate, Gedung Kuning, Singapore 198497, www.facebook.com/permata.restaurant

Tok Tok Indonesian Restaurant

Tok Tok Indonesian Restaurant has opened its doors on Joo Chiat Road. Expect classics like Ayam Bakar Betutu with chicken in Balinese spices, cooked sous vide in cassava leaves and grilled ($29.80); Beef Rendang ($11.80); Soto Ayam and other Indonesian dishes to satisfy that craving for a trip to Indonesia. End the meal on a sweet note with the unusual dish of Pisang Goreng Coklat Keju, a classic Jakarta special that sees chocolate condensed milk drizzled over fried banana fritters and topped with… shaved cheese!
Tok Tok Indonesian Restaurant, 467 Joo Chiat Road, Tel: +65 6908 3835

KULTO: New Spanish restaurant

Head Chef José Alonso (from Binomio), helms the kitchen of KULTO. On the menu, Spanish favourites like Jamon Ibérico Croquettes ($12), Octopus, Roasted Pork Belly with Paprika ($28) and three types of paella. We spotted a great value two or three course lunch menu where you can nibble on a choice of starters and mains plus top up $5 for dessert of KULTO cheesecake or charcoal pineapple with ice cream (includes coffee).
KULTO, 87 Amoy Street Singapore 069906, Tel: (+65) 96205626

Sommer: New restaurant at Marina Bay

Sommer is a new 28-seater restaurant helmed by young star 27 year-old Chef Lewis Barker who has worked in the kitchens of Bacchanalia and Vianney Massot. The fine dining establishment serves up modern European plates that are a visual feast. Menus range from $68++ for a 3-course Discovery lunch, to $168++ for the 4-course Inspiration menu and $228++ for the 6-course Experience menu.
Sommer, #01-02, The Sail @ Marina Bay, 2 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018987

Momolato Café: New café

Momolato Café is a new late-night gourmet gelateria in Kampong Glam (it closes at 2am!). Wander down Haji Lane and squeeze yourself into this little nook (18-seats so grab one quick) offering artisanal gelato flavours with no artificial flavourings or additives. The Momolato gelato range ($4.90-8) changes weekly ranging from Chocolate Arabica Coffee from Ecuador, to Roasted Sicilian Pistachio, Mao Shan Wang durian, Oolong Hojicha Tiramisu and Ondeh-Ondeh Sweet Potato Swirl plus Keto flavours.
Momolato Café, 34 Haji Lane, Singapore 189227, Tel: +65 8883 7968

Set of Six: new cocktail bar

Set of Six is a new bar in Duxton inspired by Joseph Conrad’s novel. We are a little head over heels for the décor of pink feather lamps, turquoise velvet loungers, and lots of gold. Cocktails hover around the $25 mark. The menu features proper posh nosh rather than bar snacks – triple cooked chips with mushroom ketchup, Sea-bass Ceviche ($28) and Lobster and Fennel Ravioli ($29).
Set of Six, #01-01, 20 Craig Road, Singapore 089692

Carne: New burger joint

Chef Mauro Colagreco has been busy! In addition to the Mirazur pop-up, he has set up the first international outpost of Argentinian burger restaurant Carne with chef Beppe de Vito from the Il Lido Group in Singapore. Located on Amoy street, Carne dishes out free-range, grass-fed Angus beef burgers, milkshakes, thrice-cooked fries and local craft beers. Carne is all about being eco-conscious so there’s lots of attention to sustainable growers, cage-free eggs, and farmers committed to responsible farming practices.
Carne, 88 Amoy Street, Singapore 069907

The Dempsey Project in Dempsey

Taking over from Jones the Grocer in Dempsey is The Dempsey Project (by the same owners). The menu contains old signatures and some new dishes including Sweet Potato toast with smashed avocado, feta, poached eggs, lime and chilli ($24) the Spicy Miso Beans on sourdough toast ($21) and the vegetarian Streetstyle Dahi Papdi Chaat or a Mediterranean Mezze ($26).
The Dempsey Project, 9 Dempsey Road, Singapore (247697), Tel: (+65) 6475 2005

Moonbow: New restaurant in Dempsey

Moonbow is a new restaurant in Dempsey (in the old Blu Kouzina digs). This newcomer boasts stunning interiors of pink pastels and champagne hues with gold touches plus a gorgeous alfresco seating area overlooking the sports fields. Moonbow offers modern European cuisine with Asian accents. Barramundi with Fermented Red Yeast Wine ($38++), a traditional Asian dish reinvented; Black Silkie Poulet ($38++) with chargrilled black chicken, bearnaise sauce, and black garlic purée; and a personal favourite, Jerusalem Artichoke soup ($25++) served with a 64 °C sous vide egg, caviar, and sunchoke chips.
Moonbow, Block 10 Dempsey Road, #01-21, Singapore 247700, Tel: (65) 9010 2717

Prairie by Craftsmen: New Cafe in Cluny Court

Prairie by Craftsmen is a new cafe and alfresco restaurant at Cluny Court near Botanic Gardens. You would probably miss this new cafe if you didn’t know where to look. Opened by Craftsmen Specialty Coffee, Prairie by Craftsmen is located where Bar Bar Black Sheep at Cluny Court used to be (behind Fishwives). This new cafe makes a lovely spot to enjoy breakfast before or after a walk in the Botanics nearby. Munch on Eggs & Bacon Croissants, Smashed Avo Toast, and other breakfast pastries. The lunch and dinner menu spans salads, and heartier mains like Duck Confit, Fish and Chips, Steak Sandwiches, pasta and burgers.
Prairie by Craftsmen, 501 Bukit Timah Rd, Cluny Court #01-05C, Singapore 259760

Read more: Best New Restaurants of 2020

Persea: Low carb restaurant

Persea (pronounced per-say-ah), is a new restaurant in Ann Siang that focuses on low-carb meals. Think Cauli-hummus ($10), Bone Marrow ($24), Calamari with Chorizo ($24) and free range chicken with garlic yogurt and cauliflower tabouleh ($24). You won’t miss out on desserts either with their Rosemary Basque Cheesecake ($16) featuring cream cheese, camembert, and blue cheese.
Persea, 23 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069703

The RITUAL: New cafe

The RITUAL (by the same co-founder Cassandra Riene Tan of BOTANY) is a new cafe on Bukit Timah Rd. The menu encompasses plant-based and gluten-free options plus more standard dishes like the Ritual Big Breakfast ($25) with sourdough or croissant with eggs, and sausage, the Signature Avo Toast ($18), and Ritual Protein Bowl ($25).
The RITUAL, 383 Bukit Timah Rd, #01-09B, Singapore 259727

Green Common: Plant-based new café

Look out for new plant-based café Green Common launched by Green Monday, creators of OmniFoods. This place is a huge one-stop café and grocery concept store in VivoCity. Their aim is to give us plant-forward options, including a selection of Western and Asian-inspired cafe dishes made with zero meat but instead OmniMeat, Beyond Meat, Just Egg and Chick’n Nuggets. From Meat Lovers Pizza ($19++), topped with Moving Mountains and Beyond Meat Sausage with melted Daiya cheese; to hawker staples adapted to have zero meat – Hainanese Trick’en Rice ($16++), with Heura ‘chicken’ or Rendang Chicken Roti ($13++) – with Heura ‘chicken’ and potato chunks served with freshly made roti prata.
Green Common, VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, #01-169/170, Singapore 098585

The Brewing Ground: New Café in Joo Chiat

The Brewing Ground has set up a little “glasshouse” café filled with hanging plants, in the compound of The Yards, a space focused on arts, dance and drama. This casual café welcomes kids and pets (thanks to its alfresco area) and is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm (dinner will be launching soon). The Brewing Ground offers a European-inspired menu, featuring Homemade Granola ($12++), Avocado & Ricotta Tartine ($17++), Burrata & Tomatoes Tartine ($18++) as well as brunch from 11am – think Breakfast Burgers ($19++), and Not an Eggs Benedict ($21++).
The Brewing Ground, 406 Joo Chiat Place, The Yards, #01-24, Singapore 428084

Little Farms Bistro Joo Chiat: New Café in East

Little Farms’ newest and largest outlet is open on Joo Chiat Road! This will be their fifth outlet spanning 6,000 square feet and features a bistro, supermarket, butcher counter and bar. Head over to Little Farms Bistro for their famous Smashed Avocado on Toast, Buttermilk Pancakes, Tempeh Tofu Salad and Vegetarian Lasagne, as well as freshly made juices, signature smoothies and Allpress coffee. Plus there will be a new dinner menu featuring Little Farms ingredients to go with artisanal wine and classic craft cocktails.
Little Farms Bistro, 451 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427664

new restaurants 2020 singapore — Kotuwa: Chef Rishi Naleendra

Kotuwa: Sri Lankan cuisine by Chef Rishi

Fans of Chef Rishi Naleendra of Cheek Bistro and Cloudstreet can look forward to visiting his latest restaurant, which celebrates Sri Lankan cuisine with influences from South India, Malaysia, Indonesia and beyond. Kotuwa at Wanderlust Hotel serves all the Sri Lankan staples from Hoppers, crispy-edged bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, served plain ($4++) or with egg ($6++) to Kottu Roti, crisp and airy godhamba roti that is chopped and served with a choice of chicken ($22++) or baby jackfruit ($18++). Look out for black pork curry, Chicken Kottu ($22), and the Sri Lankan Crab Curry (market price) made with Sri Lankan mud crab cooked with cumin, fenugreek, coriander, cinnamon using a unique recipe passed down from Chef Rishi’s mother. The cocktail programme is super fun too and showcases creative concoctions that take inspiration from Sri Lanka’s famous railway trains.
Kotuwa, Wanderlust Hotel, 2 Dickson Road, Singapore 209494, www.kotuwa.com.sg

Miznon: Israeli restaurant by MasterChef Israel Judge

Fans of Israeli cuisine get excited because Miznon, a highly-acclaimed contemporary casual eatery from Tel Aviv, Israel has just arrived in Singapore! Renowned Israeli Chef Eyal Shani (judge on MasterChef Israel ) is behind Miznon, best known for its inventive take on Israeli street food. Pitas are the star of the show – flown in from Israel these fluffy chewy pitas are unlike anything you’ve ever had before and will soak up all the tahini sauce wonderfully. There are various stuffings from Ratatouille with hardboiled egg and veggies ($17) to Minute Steak pita ($19) as well as the famous Baby Cauliflower Flower ($16), Batata which is a sweet potato served with a dip and Runover Potato ($11). There’s loud tunes and a fun buzzy atmosphere. You’ll need a reservation.
Miznon, 01-01, 6 Stanley Street, Singapore, www.facebook.com/miznonsg

Catfish: Upmarket Seafood by Chef Andrew Walsh

Catfish is the latest restaurant by Chef Andrew Walsh (the Irish chef behind Cure and Butcher’s Boy). Contemporary Fish Grill & Raw Bar, Catfish serves Asian fusion dishes from hearty Fish & Chips with Barramundi and Jalapeno Tartar Sauce ($32), to sophisticated snacks of CATFISH Mini Cone Selections ($28) a trio of crispy wanton skin cones filled with smoked salmon, scallop sashimi, and beef tartare. Other seafood themed posh nosh includes Sesame Prawn Toasts with Uni and Caviar ($58) and mains of Whole Sichuan BBQ Fish with Laksa (S$42). If you are there for lunch opt for the Lunch Set Menu ($45 for two courses, $55 for three courses).
Catfish, 5 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069261, +65 9069 9207, www.catfish.sg

Raw Kitchen Bar: Alfresco casual restaurant

New restaurant Raw Kitchen Bar opens where Camp Kilo Charcoal Club used to be. Managed by the same team as Camp Kilo, this restaurant is an ode to the original Raw Kitchen Bar which opened its doors by Bukit Timah fire station back in 2008. Anyone remember that great spot? Now 12 years on, the Raw Kitchen Bar is back and offers some great eats in this alfresco casual space. We popped in recently and dined on the Black Mamba ($25) of prawns in black squid ink rice with kick-ass fermented chilli sambal, spicy raw Salmon Laab ($14), and bomb Brussel Sprouts with tamarind dressing and chilli (thankfully similar enough to our fave dish from Camp Kilo days). There’s lots of veggies and a few vegan items on the menu (hello Vegan Potstickers $12 and Cauliflower Tacos $16) but for the meat inclined try the Balsamic Duck Leg, or the Wagyu Flatiron. Raw Kitchen Bar is open from Thursday to Sunday.
Raw Kitchen Bar, 66 Kampong Bugis, Ground Floor Patio, Singapore 338987, Whats’App: (+65) 98363234, www.rawkitchenbar.com

Hathaway Restaurant: New in Dempsey

Dempsey welcomes a new all-day café and restaurant Hathaway Restaurant. We have a little style crush on the warm woods and nude palette of this cute café furnished with beautiful Second Charm pieces. The brunch items stand out. Pengat Pisang French Toast topped with caramelised bananas stewed in coconut milk, with fresh berries and a fight-for-the-last-spoonful of Apom Berkuah ice cream. The Mezze Platter is an Indian take on bread and dips with sourdough naan, Baigan Bharta eggplant dip, a Tofu Makhani and Coconut Chutney. In the kitchen is Head Chef Tom (formerly of SKIRT W hotel) and his menu spans Peranakan signatures like Ah Nya’s Fish Curry, an ode to Ivan the founder’s grandmother, to more Western slanted dishes. We hear they had Pamelia Chia (author of Wet Market to Table) help plan the menu to use interesting Asian ingredients. This spot is worth checking out for your next brunch. They have high chairs for babies but no kids menu (as yet). Prices are still being confirmed – check back soon!
Hathaway Restaurant, 13 Dempsey Road #01-07 Singapore 249674, www.instagram.com/hathaway_sg

Canopy HortPark

You may know the Canopy brand from their Canopy Bishan Park outlet. This time they are bringing their all-day dining to one of our fave green parks Hort Park. Canopy Hort Park is a beaut (just check out our lead image) with wicker chairs and lots of green hanging plants in their alfresco space (which makes it great for furkids too). They are open from 8am so pop in for that coffee when you are taking the kids to explore the playgrounds or Nature Play Garden. They also do brunch, pastas, burgers, pizzas, and other mains.
Canopy HortPark, #01-01, 33 Hyderabad Road HortPark, Singapore 119578, Tel: (+65) 6556 1533, www.canopygardendining.com

Gemma Steakhouse: Steak with views

Gemma by Beppe De Vito is a new Italian steakhouse on top of the National Gallery reopening on 23 December. Wow guests with large-format bistecca Fiorentina to prime meats sourced from around the world. There’s Te Mana Lamb Rack ($78) and A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Sirloin ($118) from Japan all exclusively sourced and dry-aged for Gemma Steakhouse. The view from this rooftop restaurant features sweeping panoramas of Singapore’s stunning skyline from the flyer across to MBS and the financial centre with the lush green carpet of the Padang at your feet.
Gemma Steakhouse, 1 St Andrew’s Road, #05-03, National Gallery, Singapore 178957, (+65) 87870977, www.gemmasteakhouse.sg

1-ATICO: Rooftop dining

1-ATICO is the newest rooftop bar and restaurant to open in Singapore! This spot (by the 1-GROUP peeps) is right up there 56 storeys above ION Orchard with unrivalled views across the city. There are three concepts under one roof at 1-Atico (Spanish for “Penthouse”): FIRE, FLNT and 1-Atico Ultra-Lounge (opening in 2021). FIRE is where you’ll find authentic Argentinian wood-fired Asado dining, while at FLNT, look forward to a Japanese-Peruvian sumiyaki bar experience.
1-ATICO, 2 Orchard Turn, Level 56, Singapore 238801 [email protected], www.1-atico.sg

The Whole Kitchen Café: Gluten-free café in East & CBD

The two Aussie mums behind gluten-free wholefood brand The Whole Kitchen have just launched their first bricks and mortar café! The Whole Kitchen Café is a very small humble tucked off East Coast Rd as well as a cafe with inside and outdoor seating on Robinson Road. There’s something for everyone here – keto, dairy-free, vegan or low-carb plus it’s halal-certified!. Think gluten-free sandwiches and cakes, fresh smoothies and oat milk lattes made with coffee beans from Allpressespresso. Signature dishes include the delicious housemade Peanut Butter, Cacao spread and Banana Toastie served with berries and the Mumbai sandwich made with gluten-free bread, cucumber, tomato, chaat masala and onions and served with a side of salad and a delicious tomato chutney.
The Whole Kitchen Café, 1 Ean Kiam Place entrance off 11 East Coast Rd, #01-16, Singapore 428722,
AND 120 Robinson Rd, 01-01, www.thewholekitchen.com.sg

Menbaka Fire Ramen from Kyoto

The famed Menbaka Fire Ramen from Kyoto has opened up shop at Cathay Cineleisure. Get your cameras ready for one IG-worthy theatricially made dish! Forget wok-hei these guys (a father and son duo) literally set your ramen bowl on fire when the chef ignites the negi oil and pours it over the broth. The Shoyu Fire Ramen ($17.90), uses the same shoyu as the one in Kyoto, imported from a 220-year-old shoyu factory from Hyogo prefecture. Or go for the healthy Vegetarian Fire Ramen or deep flavoured Tonkotsu Fire Ramen. Just watch your eye brows…
Menbaka Fire Ramen, #05-03, Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, Singapore 239695, www.facebook.com/menbakasg

French Fold: Galettes and crepes

French Fold occupies a fresh, modern space on Telok Ayer (think the gorgeous vibes of Merci Marcel by the same group). Their galettes (savoury French gluten-free buckwheat pancakes) are on point. We loved their galette No.6 – warm goat cheese, tomato chutney, basil, and roasted bell pepper served warm. The other more traditional galette, their No.4 is a quintessential galette served with a chiffonade of ham, organic egg sunny side up, sautéed mushrooms, and Comté cheese. Both were very good, especially paired with a lovely organic dry cider which according to Brittany tradition is served in a ceramic bowl. For dessert try the crepes with melted Valrhona chocolate (70%) served with poached pear and homemade whipped cream.
French Fold, 204 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068640, Tel : (+65) 6970 7626, www.mercimarcelgroup.com/fold/telok-ayer-singapore

Lead image: Catfish

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