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EDITOR’S NOTE

hether you’re here in Singapore for the first or the umpteenth time, you’ll never run out of places to eat in this food-crazed city of ours. But with new restaurants opening almost every week, it can be hard to figure out where’s really good—and if you’re here for a limited time, you’ve got to make every meal count. To help you out in your gastronomic journey, we’ve compiled this handy guide to Singapore’s vibrant dining scene. In it you’ll find some 150 restaurants that are truly the best places to dine in town, all reviewed anonymously and honestly. There’s something for every mood and situation here, whether you’re looking for celebrity chef restaurants, in need of a swanky spot for a date or business lunch, hankering for comfort food or eager for a radically different dining experience. So go ahead—dig in!

4 ways to find the perfect restaurant for you

What our ratings mean

by neighborhood..... contents, p.4

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Price guide For a 3-course meal (excluding wine)

A pleasant dining experience

by name........................index, p.46

by cuisine.....................index, p.48

HHHH Truly memorable

by price.........................index, p.50

HHHHH Not to be missed!

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Less than $40 $40–$80 $ $80–120 $ $ $120–200 $ $ $ $200 and up

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singapore’s best restaurants 3

CONTENTS

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Dempsey & Tanglin

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4 singapore’s best restaurants

#14-03 Block 211, Henderson Rd., Singapore 159552 Phone: (65) 6323-2512 Fax: (65) 6323-2779 Email: where@asia-city.com.sg MICA(P)111/09/2013 ISSN: 0219 3280. Printed by HO Printing Singapore Pte. Ltd.

On the cover: OCF (see p. 15)

contents

6 SINGAPORE’S 10 BEST RESTAURANTS The cream of the crop as chosen by our expert editors

36 Dempsey & Tanglin A lush green enclave in the heart of the city

Orchard

Bukit Timah

Great eats along the famous shopping strip

Home to Singapore’s upper crust

City Hall

Sentosa & Harbourfront

Eat your way around the historical civic district

What to eat down South

Raffles Place & Marina Bay

Kampong Glam & Little India

Foodie destinations in the financial district

Two ethnic enclaves bursting with good food

21 Chinatown & Tanjong Pagar The unofficial hotbed of hot new tables

44 Elsewhere Restaurants worth traveling for

33 River Valley Picturesque meals along the Singapore River

46 Index singapore’s best restaurants 5

s i n ga p or e ’s 1 0 b est r estau rants

Jaan

HHHHH

French. 70/F Equinox Complex, Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd., 6837-3322, www.jaan.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-2pm; daily 7-10pm. $$$ For a blowout meal, this can’t be beat. Perched up on the 70th floor, the view is breathtaking, the ambiance elegant and the service spot-on. The real highlight, though, is chef de cuisine Julien Royer’s masterfully plated creations made with top-notch seasonal produce (the vegetables may be imported from France, but they are startlingly fresh) such as confit Arctic char and truffle ice cream with toasted poilane.

Waku Ghin

HHHHH

Japanese. #02-02 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8507, www.marinabaysands. com. Open daily 6-10:30pm. $$$$$

Cut

HHHHH

Steak, Western. #B1-71 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8517, www.wolfgangpuck.com. Open Sun-Thu 6-10pm; Fri-Sat 6-11pm. $$$$ This is a faultless rendition of a contemporary steakhouse. The Wolfgang Puck project offers a really impressive menu of beef, including 300-day grain fed Australian Angus from Rangers Valley and Japanese Wagyu, along with a range of unique and delicious sauces like their signature Argentinean chimichurri. Cocktails are also amazing, so be sure to have at least one. If you’re looking for an old school meat-extravaganza, this is the ultimate.

6 singapore’s Best Restaurants

What sets Tetsuya Wakuda apart from the rest of the celebrity chefs? Top‑notch, personalized service that makes the hefty $400 price tag for his 10‑course degustation menu totally worth it. Expect a top-notch Japanese feast with exquisite creations using premium ingredients, such as grade nine Wagyu and Hokkaido uni (sea urchin), in an understated, elegant space. It’s easy to see why it’s among the hottest tables in town. The restaurant’s massive 3,000 bottle strong wine collection takes the experience over the top.

Le Bistrot Du Sommelier HHHHH French. 53 Armenian St., 6333-1982, www.lebistrotdusommelier.com. Open Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6-11pm. $$$ Chef/co‑owner Patrick Heuberger’s bistro baby serves up soulsatisfying French comfort food that hits the spot in a way most prissy French plates in this city can’t. We highly recommend ordering the beef tartare, a bottle of wine— co‑owner/sommelier Max Fedkiw has got some stellar suggestions— and hunkering down for a relaxed feast. You won’t want to leave.

Artichoke

HHHHH

Middle Eastern. Sculpture Square, 161 Middle Rd., 6336-6949, www.artichoke.com.sg. Open Tue-Sat 6:30-10pm; Sat-Sun 11:30-3pm. $$ This is what all independent restaurants aspire to be. The whole space feels nicely lived-in, the décor is eclectic (in the best way possible), and the Moorish menu’s divvyed up into small and large plates perfect for communal feasts. Everything’s delicious. Plus, the service is cheerful and attentive too.

Punjab Grill

HHHHH

Indian. #B1-01A The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7395, www.marinabaysands.com. Open daily 11:30am3:30pm, 6:30pm-11pm. $$$ It’s a rare Indian restaurant that’s as sleek and modern as this. The menu is extensive with impeccably executed specialties such as Norwegian salmon tikka and tandoori foie gras with mango chutney. We also love how their indulgent five‑course degustation menus satisfy both vegetarians and carnivores.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 7

s i n ga p or e ’s 1 0 b est r estau rants

Binomio

HHHHH

Spanish, Tapas. #01-02 Craig Place, 20 Craig Rd., 6557-0547. Open Mon-Fri noon-1:45pm; Mon-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$$

The Naked Finn

HHHHH

Seafood, Western. 41 Malan Rd., 6694-0807. Open Mon-Fri noon2pm; Mon-Thu 6-10pm; Fri-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$

Spectacular Spanish eats are dished out at both their smart main dining room and chilled-out bar space here. But for a truly unforgettable experience, spring for the tapas tasting at the bar. It’ll have you fighting till the last bite. Just $69 gets you six different items of your choosing, including crisp ham and chicken croquetas, as well as tender pork-beef meatballs in squid ink sauce. Come prepared to order just about everything—it’s all amazing.

You can’t go wrong with the all-seafood menu (including simply fried, grilled or steamed fish and crustaceans) at this chic shack-eatery. But we highly reccommend the comprehensive set for four: six seafood dishes, two kinds of greens, vermicelli, and creme brulee for dessert. It’s the stuff of dreams. The cocktails are deliciously fresh and fruity too: Perfect for the minimalist outdoor venue. A prime example of why less is more.

Joël Robuchon Restaurant HHHHH French. Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688, www.joel-robuchon.net. Open Tue-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$$$$ Joël Robuchon, the most decorated chef in the world, with 25 Michelin stars tucked neatly under his belt, doesn’t disappoint at this French gastro temple. The 16-course degustation menu of classic recipes is flawlessly executed, as are selections from the a la carte menu. We also love the gorgeous bread, cheese, dessert and tea trolleys, as well as the superb wine list, with over 1,200 labels to choose from.

8 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Bedrock Bar & Grill American, European, Steak. #01-05 Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard, 96 Somerset Rd., 6238-0054. Open Mon-Sat noon-3pm; 6:30pm-midnight. $$$ There’s no place better to dig into New York style steaks. They’ve got a fantastic list of choice cuts like USDA Prime dry aged ribeye and Aussie grassfed porterhouse. And everything about the décor, from the mood lighting to the brown leather and circular booths is reminiscent of a NYC steakhouse a la Sex and the City—it’s really slick.

Best Restaurants

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Buona Terra Italian. Chateau TCC, 29 Scotts Rd., 6733-0209, www.scotts29.com. Open Mon-Sat 6:30-10:30pm. $$$

&Made Burgers, Western. #01-04/05/06 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Rd., 6690-7566, www.andmade.sg. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10-10:30pm. $$ From celebrity chef Bruno Ménard comes a casual Yankee burger-andfries joint re-imagined with a European sensibility and a liberal dose of escapist fun. Look forward to gourmet goods like the B burger, with beef, onion confit and Comte cheese, sandwiches and salads. End on a sweet note with desserts such as hot caramel lava cake and lollipop waffles. Plus, house wines are better quality and value than at a lot of the more upscale restaurants.

Housed in Chateau TCC, a refurbished colonial house a few doors down from Song of India and cocktail bar Néktar, this establishment offers up contemporary Northern Italian fare. Chef Denis Lucchi serves rich yet restrained dishes like crispy asparagus dumpling with Robiola and sous vide pistachio-crusted lamb loin. Thankfully, none of it is too heavy.

Crystal Jade Golden Palace HHHH

10 at Claymore Western. G/F Pan Pacific Hotel, 10 Claymore Rd., 6831-6686, www.panpacific.com. Open daily 6-10:30am, 6-10:30pm; Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm; Sun noon-3pm. $$$ Pan Pacific Orchard's signature restaurant is the perfect go-to spot for carnivorous foodies. A modern bistro grill with both buffet and a la carte options, juicy steaks and tender ribs (like the Australian 250-days grain-fed wagyu beef striploin) hog the limelight. Meats aside, Sunday brunch specials, such as the South American queen roe scallop and baked Pacific-caught salmon are also on offer.

10 Singapore’s best restaurants

Cantonese, Teochew. #05-22/24 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6734-6866, www.crystaljade.com. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; Sat 11am-2:45pm; Sun 10:30am2:45pm; daily 6-11pm. $$ This fine dining outlet of the Crystal Jade Group is super luxurious, and serves up Cantonese and Teochew fare. Expect authentic dishes with a decidedly modern twist that are healthier than most Chinese food options but still delicious, like rice congee and cold crab, with a notable wine list to boot.

Iggy’s European. 3/F Hilton Singapore, 581 Orchard Rd., 6732-2234, www.iggys.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-1:30pm; Mon-Sat 7-9:30pm. $$$$$

Hashida Sushi

Undoubtedly one of Singapore’s most well-known and highly regarded restaurants. It’s a reliable option for quality fare that’s a unique blend of Japanese ingredients with European concepts, enhanced by professional service. The wine list is also outstanding, courtesy of owner and respected sommelier Ignatius Chan.

HHHHH

Japanese. #02-37 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6733-2114, www.hashida.com. sg. Open Tue-Sun noon-2:30pm, 7-10pm. $$$$$ The first overseas offshoot of famed Tokyo establishment Hashida Sushi, this is an elegant and minimalist spot, with light wood all round. Dine on lunch sets and dinner courses including seasonal nigiri sushi such as sea bream, ark shell and tuna, plus specialty chawanmushi with seasonal ingredients, and salmon roe and sea urchin rice. There are also fine sakes and Bordeaux wines to go along with the meal. sponsored listing

Ippudo SG Japanese. #04-02 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6235-2797, www.ippudo.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm. $ If you’ve yet to visit this ramen joint, you really should. After all, which self-respecting noodle fan hasn’t heard of Shigemi Kawahara’s acclaimed ramen emporium? A long line of hungry patrons snaking out of and around the restaurant is a testament to their popularity, and we can assure you it’s wholly worth the wait. The ramen is incredibly satisfying, as are the addictive pork buns.

Imperial Treasure Shanghai Cuisine

Hard Rock Cafe American. #04-01 HPL House, 50 Cuscaden Rd., 6235-5232, www.hardrock.com.sg. Open Tue-Thu, Sun 11am-1am; Fri-Sat, Mon 11am-3am. Like its international counterparts, the flagship Singapore outlet of the renowned chain is decked out in music memorabilia and plays host to rock bands and acts from time to time. Tuck into hearty, all-American meals here—think ribs, burgers and steaks.

Shanghainese. #04-22 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 68366909, www. imperialtreasure. com. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am3pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat 11am2:30pm; Sat-Sun 6-11pm; Sun 10:30am-2:30pm. $$ This restaurant serving traditional Shanghainese cuisine has been packed since it opened. If you’re willing to brave the crowd, you’ll be rewarded with good food. We love the wide array of starters including chilled thousand layer pig’s ears, and you shouldn’t miss the rich glutinous rice and cream crab.

Singapore’s best restaurants 11

o rc h a r d

Ito-Kacho

HHH

Japanese. #04-08 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6836-0111, www.itokacho.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11am-2:30pm, 6-11pm; Sat 11:30am-11pm; Sun 11:30am-10:30pm. $$ This Japanese yakiniku chain’s first overseas outlet serves Japanese Black wagyu including cuts like flank steak, skirt steak and short rib. There’s also kurobuta offerings like pork jowl and pork belly. We love the fact that the grills are smoke-free: you won’t leave smelling of charred meat.

Min Jiang

HHH

Sichuan. G/F Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Rd., 67301704, www.goodwoodparkhotel. com. Open daily 11am-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 3-5:30pm. $$

Ki-sho

HHHH

Its contemporary interior, attractive furnishings and poolside dining option (the first for a Chinese restaurant) aside, it’s the consistently good food that makes Min Jiang worth a visit. The well-trained and efficient staff doesn’t hurt either, so you’d be just as comfortable having a business lunch as you would a family get together. The delectable dim sum is a steady draw, too.

Japanese. Chateau TCC, 29 Scotts Rd., 6733-5251, www.scotts29. com. Open Mon-Sat 6:30-10:30pm. $$$$$ Located in a black-and-white colonial house, this fine dining Japanese eatery offers only three omakase set menus focused on seasonal ingredients. The two-story restaurant is also elegant, decked out in pale wood and gold leaf wallpaper. Plus, there’s a sake room where you can choose from a 50-strong collection of nihonshu.

Les Amis

HHHH

French. #02-16 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd., 6733-2225, www.lesamis.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-2pm; Mon-Sat 7-9:30pm. $$$$$ This place has got to be Singapore’s best known fine dining joint. And its fame is well deserved. They’ve got a beautifully regal décor, waitstaff who know their stuff, a comprehensive wine menu and really good French food, care of chef de cuisine Sebastien Lepinoy and pastry chef Cheryl Koh. So you’re poised for an exceptional dining experience that’s more than the sum of its parts. A meal here doesn’t come cheap, but it’s worth every penny.

12 Singapore’s best restaurants

Salt Grill

HHH

Australian. 55/F ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6592-5118, www.saltgrill.com. Open daily 11am-2pm; Mon-Thu 6-10pm; Fri-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$$ Australian chef-restaurateur Luke Mangan offers Asian-accented plates at this restaurant atop ION Orchard, on the 55th floor. There’s a striking view of the Orchard area, and the food is refined yet satisfying. They’ve got savory dishes like scallops with cauliflower and serrano ham as well as their signature Sydney crab omelet with miso-mustard.

The Song of India HHHH North Indian. 33 Scotts Rd., 68360055, www.thesongofindia.com. Open daily noon-3pm, 6-11pm. $$ Set in a restored black-and-white colonial-style house, this palatial establishment boasts designer flatware and cutlery, chandeliers and silk curtains. The menu is equally striking, with inventive dishes like star anise-perfumed foie gras crafted with premium ingredients. Top that off with warm and efficient service, and it’s no mystery why regulars keep coming back for more.

Sushi Ichi

HHHH

Japanese. #02-02 Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Rd., 6299-0014, www.sushichi.com. Open Wed-Sun noon-3pm; Tue-Sun 6-10:30pm; Tue 12:30-3pm. $$$$$ Getting a seat at this fine dining restaurant—the first outpost of oneMichelin-starred Ginza Sushi Ichi that seats just 24—has been a challenge from day one. It’s filled to the brim every lunch and dinner with Japanese clientele, always a good sign, and that’s despite the hefty price tags for kaiseki-only menus. While the classically Japanese décor is very Zen and there isn’t any music in the background, it does keep the focus firmly on the food, which is exquisite. Expect the most succulent seafood from the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, accompanied by fresh wasabi from Shizuoka grated by hand.

Tandoor

HHH

Indian. B1/F Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, 11 Cavenagh Rd., 6733-8333, www.tandoor.com.sg. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 7-10:30pm. $$ This stalwart Indian restaurant— founded in 1985—has just been renovated, featuring a slick new design and an expansive menu including not only northern Indian specialties but also regional dishes such as Goan fish curry and mango curry, as well as contemporary recipes like jalapeno corn kebab.

Sopra Cucina & Bar HHH Italian. #01-02 Pan Pacific Orchard, 10 Claymore Rd., 6737-3253, www.sopracucina.com. Open Mon-Wed 11:30am-midnight; Thu-Sat 11:30-2am. $$$ Tucked away at the back of five-star hotel Pan Pacific Orchard (right by Orchard Towers), this Sardinian restaurant more than makes up for its unusual location with its retro glam decor. The name is in big lights out front, and the interior features lots of black leather and luxe marble. The food is unique (including dishes like fregola pasta and carasu bread) and there’s also a solid list of mostly Italian wines and beers.

Wan Hao

HHHH

Cantonese. 3/F Singapore Marriott Hotel, 320 Orchard Rd., 68314605. Open daily 11am-3pm; Sun-Thu 6-10pm; Fri-Sat 6-11pm. $$ This Cantonese establishment has been dishing out scrumptious Chinese plates since 1995. The main dining room is swanky, featuring a dramatic gold and black color scheme, artistic calligraphy on the walls and antique displays. Though best known for their Peking duck, the dim sum (think juicy siew mai, golden barbecue pork pastries and deep-fried shrimp rolls) crafted by Hong Kong native chef Chan Lam Pang, is also not to be missed.

Singapore’s best restaurants 13

city hall

Bacchanalia

HHHH

Modern European. 23A Coleman St., 6509-1453, www.bacchanalia.asia. Open Mon-Thu noon-3pm, 6pmmidnight; Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-2am; Sat 6pm-2am; Sun 11:30am-5pm. $$$ Founded by Alex Chew and Raj Datwani—who made a name for themselves hosting raucous pop up meals as part of the Bacchanalia Brunch Series—this restaurant is housed in the historic Masonic Club building. The glitzy décor was inspired by a glass of Champagne and the space includes 400 hand-blown glass bubbles hanging from the ceiling. On the menu are sophisticated sharing plates (categorized as vegetable, seafood or meat), which you can wash down with plenty of Champagne.

Entre-nous Creperie French. #01-01, 27 Seah St., 6333-4671, www.entrenous.sg. Open Tue-Fri noon-3pm, 6-10pm; Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-6pm. $

Balzac Brasserie

HHH

French. #01-01 Rendezvous Gallery, Rendezvous Hotel, 9 Bras Basah Rd., 6336-0797, www.balzacbrasserie.com. Open daily 11:30am-11pm. $$ This dimly-lit, romantic outfit has vintage furnishings imported from France and old books by French writer Honoré de Balzac—whom it’s named after— which serve as quite the ideal complement to comforting bistro classics like lobster bisque and duck confit courtesy of chef Jean-Charles Dubois. We reckon if you can do the traditional stuff right, you’re a winner in our book. Take our advice and swing by at least once with that special someone.

14 singapore’s Best Restaurants

An unassuming hidden gem that’s all too easy to walk past, but it would be a mistake as the sweet crêpes and savory buckwheat galettes here are scrumptious. Their signature Entre-nous crêpe is remarkable. Made with organic wheat flour, this paper-thin sweet treat is crisped to perfection, then artfully drizzled with homemade salted butter caramel. They even sell jars of salted butter caramel that you can take home.

Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar Italian. #01-02 Talib Centre, 36 Purvis St., 6837-1468, www.garibaldi.com.sg. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$$ A stalwart of Italian cuisine in Singapore, the flagship eatery of the prolific Garibaldi group continues to maintain its reputation as an institution, despite fierce competition. A recent facelift has refreshed this modern and elegant space, while executive chef and owner Roberto Galetti continues to present a menu of seasonal specialties and sophisticated renditions of traditional standards. If you love all things porcine like we do, go for the maialino— 16-hour slow-cooked suckling pig.

Han

Mikuni

HHH

Japanese. 3/F Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6431-6156, www.mikuniatfairmont.com.sg. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$$ A big, well-dressed space that houses a teppanyaki counter, a sake/ sushi bar, an intimate live robatayaki station (our pick), in addition to the main dining room. At its helm is Korean executive chef Moon Kyung Soo whose philosophy is best exemplified in innovative yet restrained dishes, including a signature mushroom soup served in a siphon. Whatever you’re sampling here, it’ll be money well spent.

HHH

Japanese. #01-04 Odeon Towers, 331 North Bridge Rd., 6336-2466, www.han.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6-11pm. $$$$ Deep‑fried skewers (kushikatsu) like tomato-cream cheese and eggplant-foie gras are the stars at this upscale establishment, though there’s also sushi and sashimi crafted with fresh seafood flown in four times a week from Japan. The minimal and modern space is elegant too, all fitted out with pale wooden furniture, as well as a stunning kushikatsu counter made from Burmese teak.

OCF

HHHH

French. #02-02 The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, 6333-9312., www.ocf-singapore.com. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat 6-10:30pm. $$$ This French restaurant (named after Sir Stamford Raffles’ first wife Olivia Cassivelaun Fancourt) is a charming 50-seater with clear views of the Singapore River. A sophisticated grey hued space flanked with Roman ionic columns, the establishment features live music shows by local acts to keep things from getting too stuffy. It’s a great space to indulge in chef Jonathan Koh’s precise and pretty a la carte plates, or, if you want to be surprised, the omakase-style five-course Carte Blanche dinner.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 15

city hall

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant HHHH Cantonese. 2/F Carlton Hotel, 76 Bras Basah Rd., 6311-8188, www.carltonhotel.sg. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm; daily 6:3010:30pm; Sun 11am-2:30pm. $$

Salt Tapas & Bar

HHH

Australian, Spanish. #01-22A Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Rd., 6837-0995, www.salttapas.com. Open Mon-Thu 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sat 11am-10:30pm; Sun 11am9:30pm. $$ The second offering from Australian chef‑restaurateur Luke Mangan follows the winning formula of his first—at least in the matter of choosing a prime location—and is usually bustling till late most nights. It certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s an attractive space and boasts Spanish staples like charcuterie and char‑grilled ibérico pork loin, as well as Mangan’s very own red sangria recipe.

There’s something to be said for a good ole reliable standby, like this classy Cantonese stalwart that has recently enjoyed a facelift. It now sports a more modern look, with unexpected details like cloud decorations on the pillars, and a revamped menu with additions such as the pillowy baked custard bun and their latest signature appetizer, deep‑fried century egg wrapped with minced shrimp.

Wooloomooloo Steakhouse HHHH Steak. 3/F Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd., 6338-0261, www.wooloomooloo.com. Open daily noon2:30pm, 6:30-11pm. $$$

Saveur

HHHH

French. #01-04, 5 Purvis St., 6333-3121, www.saveur.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-2:15pm, 6-9:30pm; Sun 6-9pm. $ This affordable French spot started out as a humble stall in a kopitiam (local coffee shop and eating house) along Joo Chiat, but has since moved to more conveniently‑located digs in Bugis. True to its kopitiam roots, the new place is still basic and the menu has stayed pretty much the same with familiar favorites like foie gras with lentils, and Asian‑inspired angel‑hair pasta with sherry‑minced pork and sakura ebi.

16 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Carnivores hankering for a high-end fix should give this restaurant a go. The first Singapore branch of a Hong Kong‑based steakhouse chain, this refined yet relaxed 140‑seater restaurant specializes in Angus and USDA Prime steaks; its prime location affords a great view of the city. They also boast a selection of over 150 vinos, as well as an extensive cocktail menu.

Ra f f l es p l ac e & marina Bay

The Black Swan HHH Modern European. 19 Cecil St., 8181-3305, www.theblackswan. com.sg. Open Mon-Thu 11:30-1am; Fri 11:30am-2am; Sat 5pm-2am. $$ A 1930s-style joint in heritage building The Quadrant in the heart of the CBD, this restaurant offers European bistro classics with a contemporary twist, such as steak tartare and sous vide duck confit, dreamt up by consulting chef Sebastian Ng (Restaurant Ember). They also have a great oystersand-Champagne happy hour and a condensed supper menu.

Cherry Garden

HHHHH

Buffet, Cantonese. 5/F Marina Square, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, 5 Raffles Ave., 6885-3500, www.mandarinoriental.com. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 11am-1pm, 1:30-3:30pm. $$ Expect only the best at this elegant fine dining Chinese restaurant, with a wide selection of Cantonese cuisine presented with an artistic touch. Noteworthy dishes include the BBQ meat platter, wasabi prawns and double‑boiled soups. The weekend dim sum brunches, served with Ruinart Champagne, are also unmissable, featuring faultless food and service.

db Bistro Moderne HHHHH

Catalunya

HHHH

Spanish. The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, 6534-0188, www.catalunya.sg. Open daily noon-2am. $$$ This slick, modern Spanish restaurant and bar housed in The Fullerton Pavilion’s glass dome boasts visually arresting views of the Marina Bay waterfront. Killer suckling pig and The Other Spanish Tortilla (a deconstructed omelet) are just some of the delectables coming out of the kitchen. The energy and vibe are fantastic: it’s a bustling venue with upbeat lounge music in the main dining room.

American, French. #B1-48 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8525, www.danielnyc.com. Open Mon noon-10pm; Tue-Fri noon-11pm; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am10pm. $$$ An impressive, well-oiled machine courtesy of Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud that’s awash with soft lighting, dark chocolate wood accents, cream-colored chairs and red booth seats; it’s got just the right mix of elements to make it chic yet decidedly unpretentious. The menu’s dominated by wellexecuted French classics including foie gras terrine and traditional coq au vin, as well as delectables like the quintessential original db burger and profiteroles au café.

Singapore’s Best Restaurants 17

Ra f f l es p l ac e & m ari n a Bay

Forlino

Edge

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Italian. #02-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., 6990-7564, www.forlino.com. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$$

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International. 3/F Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Blvd., 6826-8240, www.panpacific.com. Open daily 6-11am, noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$ The next time you’re looking for a full‑on session of feasting, you’ll want to keep this all‑day dining 350‑seat restaurant in mind. There’s something to be said for sheer variety, and with seven different open concept kitchens, they’ve got that covered—and at pretty impressive prices, too. We’re talking about everything from Japanese sushi and Thai salads to Indian curries and chargrilled satay, not to mention oysters, prawns, mussels and scallops made à la minute at the seafood station, as well as pastas, pizzas, steaks and of course, a dessert spread.

Well known restaurateur Osvaldo Forlino’s flagship establishment—now under the care of head chef Kentaro Torii—has expansive views of Marina Bay and carries an understated touch of opulence. The food is sophisticated and classically Italian, and you’d be hard-pressed to find better service (attentive without being intrusive, polite without being fawning) anywhere else.

Ku Dé Ta

Folks Collective

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Thai. #01-25 China Square Central, 20 Cross St., 6536-6739, www.folkscollective.com. Open Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat noon11pm. $ This value-for-money restaurant looks pretty snazzy, with mismatched chairs, vintage posters and antiques. There are all sorts of enticing nibbles on the menu, so you’ll find it difficult not to order up a storm. (The pad thai and tom kha curry are particular stand-outs.) They also mix some mean cocktails from refreshing drinks to soothing nightcaps. The place has got everything you want for a fun and affordable meal—what’s not to love?

18 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

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Modern Asian. 57/F SkyPark Marina Bay Sands, Tower 3, Marina Bay Sands, 1 Bayfront Ave., 66887688, www.kudeta.com. Open Mon-Fri noon-3pm; daily 6-11pm; Sat-Sun 11:30am-3:30pm. $$$ This much-talked-about rooftop club and lounge also has a solid restaurant serving modern Asian cuisine with fresh ingredients, like pork belly lollipop and spicy sashimi salad. The wine menu is an extensive one, so even demanding connoisseurs will be spoilt for choice. While you could sit indoors, we suggest a table on the patio. The view is breathtaking.

La Cantine

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French. #01-01 Asia Square Tower 1, 8 Marina View, 6690-7567, www.lacantine.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm, 6-9:30pm. $$$ Celeb chef Bruno Ménard’s swanky restaurant boasts quirky design elements like red, inverted rooster lights hanging from the ceiling. It’s a modern brasserie through and through, with a well thought out menu including Ménard’s signature Cévennes onion soup on foie gras royale with truffle‑scented Chantilly, and an exceptional baba au rhum; easily the best rendition in town.

Morton’s of Chicago

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American, Steak. 4/F Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, 5 Raffles Ave., 6339-3740, www.mortons.com. Open Mon-Sat 5:30-11pm; Sun 5-10pm. $$$ For a big, fat juicy slab of steak the size of a baseball mitt, there are few places in town better equipped to deliver the goods than old-school American steakhouse Morton’s. The darkened interior of the restaurant— with walls lined with pictures of the rich and famous—denotes a sophisticated dining experience, but it’s not snooty in the slightest, thanks in large part to the friendly wait staff.

Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant HHH Chinese, Seafood. #01-10 Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 66046604, www.majesticbay.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11:45am-2:30pm; daily 5:45-9:30pm; Sat-Sun 11:30am-2:30pm. $$$ The emphasis at this bright and airy modern Chinese eatery with nautical‑inspired touches is on fresh seafood, so expect to find dishes like baked rice with assorted seafood, and the signature kopi crab. Also on offer are delicious dim sum items (only available during lunch) like seared chili crab meat bun.

Ola Cocina Del Mar

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Spanish. #01-06 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, 12 Marina Blvd., 6604-7050, www.olarestaurant.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, 5-10pm; Sat 5-10pm. $$$ The debut effort of two chefs from the now closed Santi at MBS—Daniel Chavez and Pepe Moncayo—and celebrated chef‑restaurateur Osvaldo Forlino is a homey spot with friendly service and simple, well‑executed food. There’s a tight selection to choose from (only four menu pages) of 12 tapas as well as six mains and four desserts. Don’t miss the pulpo galleco, a scrumptious dish of octopus and potatoes, as well as the stellar rice pudding.

Singapore’s Best Restaurants 19

Ra f f l es p l ac e & m ari n a Bay

The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill

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American, Seafood. #01-01 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., 6438-0400, www.thepelican.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6-11pm. $$$ This seafood destination is inspired by classic East Coast American cuisine—group exec chef Dan Segall hails from Boston—so expect items like baked snapper pie, old‑fashioned crab cakes, as well as the Pelican raw platter to be enjoyed in a warm yet sleek space with fun elements like hot pink seahorse fixtures. When the weather’s fine, be sure to opt for a table on their alfresco deck; the view of the waterfront isn’t too shabby. Great cocktails—the handiwork of Richard Gillam—an awesome view and succulent seafood in a classy setup (not a bib in sight) make this a winner.

Stellar at 1-Altitude HHH European. 62/F One Raffles Place, OUB Centre, 1 Raffles Place, 6438-0410, www.1-altitude.com. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; daily 6pm-midnight. $$$ From the 1-Rochester folks is this offering perched up on the 62nd floor; the clean lines and minimalist décor ensure your attention isn’t distracted from what it should be focused on: the food, of course. The menu, designed by chef Christopher Millar, features delectables such as panseared foie gras with pear carpaccio and jamon, truffled risotto with Maine lobster and four hour-roasted Wagyu rib eye with foie gras sauce. In other words, it’s all about good eats and a truly fantastic view. sponsored listing

Tao Seafood Asia Pollen

European. #01-09 Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6604-9988, www.pollen.com.sg. Open Tue-Sun noon2:30pm, 6-10pm. $$$

Chinese. #02-10 Asia Square Tower 2, 12 Marina View, 68449969, www.taoseafoodasia.com. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, 6-10pm.

Inspired by and named after Jason Atherton’s Michelin‑starred Pollen Street Social in London, Atherton’s second establishment here is a polished space in the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay. They offer modern European fare with Mediterranean ingredients—some of which are grown in their very own garden—and a real highlight is watching chefs create luscious treats at the nine‑meter long dessert bar. Plus, a stroll through the picturesque Gardens by the Bay is surely one of the nicest ways to walk off a big meal.

The sophisticated vibe at this quintessentially Singaporean seafood restaurant makes it a great place for business lunches. On the menu are local seafood favorites and Chinese classics, including chilli crab, pot roasted cod and even tonics such as double boiled bird’s nest.

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20 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g pagar Duxton Hill

Broth

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Australian. 21 Duxton Hill, 6323-3353, www.broth.com. sg. Open Mon-Fri 11am-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat 6:30-10:30pm. $$ One of the most civilized and underappreciated after-hours venues in the city, Broth (a.k.a. “bar restaurant on the hill”) has long been a haunt for fans of modern Aussie cuisine. It continues to serve up good food like spinach and portobello salad, and its shophouse interior is nice and cozy. If it’s atmosphere you’re after, this place has it in spades. Service, too, is discreet and understanding; quite an achievement when they choose not to charge for it. A top spot for all kinds of reasons.

Buyan Russian Restaurant & Caviar Bar HHH Russian. 9 Duxton Hill, 6223-7008, www.buyan.sg. Open Tue-Fri noon-3pm; Mon-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$ Even if you’re not a fan of Russian fare, you should make a trip to this spot; it might very well change your mind. Opt to dine downstairs, where the copious amounts of dark wood and very welcome dim lighting make for a low-key and laidback spot that’s ideal for a first date. You’ll also find iPad menus with photos of the dishes and detailed descriptions and helpful, competent wait staff to boot. Items like the khachapuri, borscht and chicken kiev are all worth a go, so even if the date’s a dud, at least the food’s different. Most importantly, there’s a selection of over 50 vodkas.

Fordham & Grand

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American. 43 Craig Rd., 6221-3088, www.fng.com.sg. Open daily 11:30am-2pm, 6pm-3am. $$$ Inspired by the cross street of Fordham and Grand in the Bronx back in the prohibition-era, this speakeasy-style spot is outfitted with plenty of dark wood and dishes out comforting fare like grilled asparagus and egg confit, lobster linguini and steak and fries. The best bit: they’re open till three in the morning, so you can chow down while you throw back agreeable tipples such as pamplemousse Negronis well into the night.

Singapore’s Best Restaurants 21

C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g paga r Amoy Street & Telok Ayer

Lucha Loco

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Mexican. 15 Duxton Hill, 6226-3938, www.luchaloco.com. Open Tue-Thu 5pm-midnight; Sat 6pm-1am; Fri 5pm-1am. $$

InItaly Bar Ristorante

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Italian. 38 Craig Rd., 6423-0918, www.initaly.asia. Open Sun-Thu noon-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Fri noon-2:30pm, 6pm-midnight; Sat 6pm-midnight. $$ A rustic, homey spot that’s well put together, with marble-topped tables and brown leather chairs. In the same spirit of things, what’s coming out of the kitchen isn’t overly fussy, just generous portions of tasty Italian food. Think crowd-pleasing fare like homemade beef-filled ravioli with Chianti sauce. Also, lunch sets are a real steal; two courses will set you back a mere $15.

A laid-back yet bustling spot, courtesy of Aussie brothers Christian and Julian Tan, with worthwhile options like pork belly tacos and Mexican street corn. With its lively atmosphere and music, good service and grub, this is one of those places built for a great time. Be sure to peruse their fun, party-worthy and refreshingly non-stuffy cocktail list, too.

Sabio Tapas Bar & Restaurant HHH Spanish. 5 Duxton Hill, 6690-7562, www.sabio.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-11pm; Sat 6-11pm; Sun 11:30am-11pm. $$

L’Entrecôte

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French. 36 Duxton Hill, 6690-7561, www. lentrecote.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-10:30pm; Sat 6-10:30pm. $$ A Parisian-style bistro with one, and only one, main menu item: their signature steak frites. Other highlights include their foie gras terrine, duck rillettes and for dessert, the waffle with salted butter caramel and vanilla bean ice cream. A complimentary glass of Kir is an especially nice touch. No bookings are taken, and yet this so-intimateit’s-almost-claustrophobic space is full most nights of the week.

22 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

Despite the fact that they don’t take reservations and it’s a compact space, it’s usually so full at Sabio that its crowd of fashionable diners spill out of the stylish black-and-white setup onto the sidewalk. Order the moreish patatas alioli and pincho moruno de pollo al ajillo (chicken skewers draped with melted Manchego), ideal accompaniments to the selection of Spanish wines and cocktails. It’s hard not to be won over by the vibe and infectious energy of the place.

Best Restaurants

Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g paga r Keong Saik & Jiak Chuan

Bistro Soori

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Fusion. 2 Teck Lim Rd., 6438-3802, www.bistrosoori. com. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am3pm, 6:30-10pm; Sat 6:3010:30pm; Sun 11am-3pm. $$ A fabulous 30-seater gem which occupies an unassuming shophouse in the heart of Chinatown, with minimalist, refined décor. Don’t expect fussed-over plates, just food that’s understated in presentation but not in flavor. The food will have you cleaning your plate shamelessly.

Esquina

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Spanish. 16 Jiak Chuan Rd., 62221616. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$$

Burnt Ends

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BBQ. 20 Teck Lim Rd., 6224-3933, www.burntends.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-midnight; Tue-Sat 11:45am-2pm. $$$ Helmed by Australian chef David Pynt, who has worked at respected dining establishments such as St John Bread and Wine in London and Noma in Copenhagen, this 18-seater dishes out a range of creative barbecue items like the Burnt Ends sanger (stuffed with pulled pork) and onglet with burnt onions, cooked on three metal grills with adjustable heights and a custom-made brick and ceramic oven.

24 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

Esquina by hotelier-restaurateur Loh Lik Peng and Michelin-starred Jason Atherton is a cool, intimate space that doesn’t take reservations; either come early or be prepared to wait. Tapas is the name of the game; executive chef Andrew Walsh makes superb squid and chorizo paella and salt-baked beetroot with whipped burrata and truffle honey; best washed down with Spanish brews like Ferran Adrià’s Estrella Damm Inedit, sherry or Cava.

Lime House

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Caribbean. 2 Jiak Chuan Rd., 6222-3130. Open Tue-Sun noon-midnight. $$ Chris Morris—who hails from Trinidad and Tobago—runs Singapore’s first Caribbean resto. The décor of the two-story establishment is homey and rustic, featuring raw unfinished walls, and mismatched vintage tables and chairs. It’s a great place to chow down on well-spiced and filling Caribbean recipes like jerk chicken and goat curry served up in generous portions. Plus, there’s a variety of sweet easy-drinking rum-based cocktails.

Restaurant Ember

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Asian, European. G/F Hotel 1929, 50 Keong Saik Rd., 6347-1928. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm; Mon-Sat 6:30-10pm. $$ Even after a decade, it still gets really busy here, especially during lunchtime, with an endless parade of execs who work in the area. That’s thanks to their affordable set lunches of good quality fare, but if you’re after a quiet meal, lunch isn’t the time for you. Dinners are more calm affairs, and we highly recommend the homemade crispy tofu with delish foie gras-mirin sauce and pan-seared Chilean seabass with smoked bacon ragout and truffle yuzu butter. Desserts, too, are equally praiseworthy.

Nicolas Le Restaurant HHHH French. 10 Teck Lim Rd., 62242404. Open Tue-Fri noon-2pm; Tue-Sat 6:30-10:30pm. $$$ Cult favorite chef Nicolas Joanny’s loyal regulars return again and again for his seasonal French fare. At lunch, he offers three-and five-course sets, and at dinner, a six-course tasting menu, which changes every two weeks, and might include recipes like pigeon and spelt risotto. Head here for a convivial atmosphere and expertly crafted French food. You can thank us afterwards.

Taratata Bistrot

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French. 35A Keong Saik Rd., 6221-4506. Open Wed-Fri & Sun 11:30am-2:30pm; Tue-Sun 5:30-11pm. $$$ This traditional Parisian bistro, with burgundy-colored couches, high ceilings, wooden dividers and lamp-posts offers up classic French recipes beautifully presented. The friendly staff and casual vibe make it a winner, and we highly reccommend dishes like the hearty foie gras terrine.

Singapore’s Best Restaurants 25

C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g paga r Club Street & Ann Siang Hill

Izy

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Japanese. 27 Club St., 6220-3327, www.izy.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm, 5pm-1am; Sat noon2:30pm, 6pm-late. $$$ This swish izakaya helmed by chef Kazumasa Yazawa (formerly of Waku Ghin) is a long narrow concrete-lined space offering uber sophisticated Japanese bar food. We love the colorful pop art on the walls and cool light fixtures made from repurposed drink bottles. It’s a clubby yet sophisticated setup. The food’s great no matter what you order, but don’t miss the perfectly fried chicken karaage and the pork belly roll with fresh ginger.

Lolla

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International, Tapas. 22 Ann Siang Rd., 6423-1228, www.lolla.com. sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-2pm, 6pmmidnight. $$$

Ding Dong

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Asian, Tapas. 23 Ann Siang Rd., 6557-0189, www.dingdong.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-midnight; Mon-Fri noon-3pm. $$ This Southeast Asian small plates joint has a cool location in a threestory refurbished shophouse on Ann Siang Road. The staff dress in traditional garb with Chinese knot buttons, the decor incorporates plenty of Asian motifs and pink light fills the space—it feels like a retro ‘70s discotheque. They offer fusion bites like Vietnamese Scotch eggs, and there’s also a Feed Us set menu featuring an ever changing range of specialties in sharing portions.To drink, order up a range of Asian-inspired cocktails and red and white wine on tap.

26 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

Another supporter of the small plates movement, Lolla’s a nice space with de rigueur industrial chic décor, an open-concept bar counter/kitchen and a semi-private dining room with a large communal table in the basement. Food here is simple, if modestly-portioned, which is where they excel with items such as scrambled eggs crowned with generous shavings of bottarga. To wash it all down, there’s an excellent collection of wines from countries like Spain, Portugal and France. Despite the patchy service, they’re packed almost every night.

Oxwell & Co.

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British. 5 Ann Siang Rd., 6438-3984, www.oxwellandco.com. Open Tue-Sat 10am-midnight. $$$ UK chef Mark Sargeant’s popular gastrobar is beautifully dolled-up and makes you feel like you’re at a house party. The culinary team do their best to make stodgy British cuisine cool, serving up classics like Dover sole and spatchcock chicken. For the full experience, end your meal with one of their old-school puddings along with a house G&T or craft ale.

Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House HHHH American. 20 Gemmill Lane, 6221-4468, www.lukes.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-midnight. $$$ Travis Masiero’s latest offering is classy yet relaxed—everything from the L-shaped marble top bar, to the crisp white linens, to the vest-wearing servers channels a chic brasserie— while the food is inspired by comforting American classics (think mac & cheese, and crab cakes), with an emphasis on East Coast favorites. Standouts include the New Englandstyle clam chowder, the spectacular M.F K. Fisher’s oyster pan roast with bottarga and the fennel-spiced bonein Kurobuta pork chop. It’s also open till late, a real bonus.

Senso Ristorante & Bar

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Italian. 21 Club St., 6224-3534. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 6-10:30pm; Sun 6-10:30pm. $$ Senso is a Club Street institution, with a loyal following. Food here is a joy, as is the service, and in such a charming space (they occupy five adjacent shophouses and the courtyard is gorgeous), too. Not only do they offer great lunch sets, their Sunday brunch with free-flowing Prosecco is also worth a visit.

Noti

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Italian. 54 Club St., 6222-0089, www.facebook.com/notiasia. Open Wed-Fri noon-2:30pm; MonSat 5:30-11:30pm. $$ This Club Street gem is helmed by well-traveled Italian chef Toni Rossetti. On offer are comforting Italian recipes like melanzane (stuffed aubergine with minced meat and basil tomato sauce) and Noti’s wagyu burger, featuring a patty wrapped with parma ham, topped with Asiago cheese and porcini mushrooms.

Singapore’s Best Restaurants 27

C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g paga r Bukit Pasoh

Restaurant Andre HHHHH French. 41 Bukit Pasoh Rd., 6534-8880, www.restaurantandre. com. Open Tue-Fri noon-2pm; Tue-Sun 7-11pm. $$$$

Majestic Restaurant

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Chinese. New Majestic Hotel, 31-37 Bukit Pasoh Rd., 6511-4718, www.restaurantmajestic.com. Open Tue-Sun 11:45am-3pm, 6-10:30pm. $$ Few Chinese restaurants are hip, but this is definitely one of them. Fashionable diners come for chef-owner Yong Bing Ngen’s signature style of modern Chinese fare. The food is best exemplified in artfully-crafted dishes such as a combination of Peking duck skin, pan-seared foie gras and crispy wasabi prawn, which fit right in with the beautiful art pieces that grace its walls and surrounds. While the selection may not be as extensive as at other establishments, Majestic is a consistent and reliable bet.

Where Gourmets Gather Reservations at: 6844 9969 12 Marina View Asia Square Tower #02-10 Singapore 018961 www.taoseafoodasia.com

28 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

Expect an intimate space in a three-story shophouse that seats 30 in chefowner André Chiang’s restaurant. With two prix fixe menus for both lunch and dinner, Chiang’s focus on fresh artisanal produce is showcased in exquisite dishes that reflect his roots in Southern French nouvelle cuisine. There are no choices whatsoever, so come with an open mind and be prepared for whatever Chiang decides to craft. The service is beyond reproach, the clientele wellheeled and the food very good.

Best Restaurants

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C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g paga r Tras Street

Bar-Roque Grill HHH French. #01-00 Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6444-9672, www.bar-roque.com. sg. Open Tue-Fri noon-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat 6-10:30pm; Sun noon-2:30pm, 6-10pm. $$ This convivial French restaurant started by chef Stephane Istel (formerly of the Daniel Boulud Group) offers dishes such as tart flambee, as well as a range of meats (French free range chicken and pork knuckle). Also, don’t miss their signature rustic apple pie for dessert, the recipe features some seriously delicious caramelized apples. Dig into it all in a cavernous space with long communal tables.

Fleur De Sel Brasserie Gavroche

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French. 66 Tras St., 6225-8266, www.brasseriegavroche.com. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 6:30-10:30pm. $$$ Francophiles will adore this place, full of French touches, such as a 1930s wooden bar-counter rescued from the original Parisian Café de la Paix, and black-and-white photos that channel an old school brasserie feel perfectly. Aside from the usual suspects like escargots de Bourgogne, you can also look forward to forgotten classics, made using recipes passed down from Colin’s grandpa Henri, like baked pork terrine pie. The food and service are excellent, but it’s the charming ambiance that you’ll find particularly hard to resist.

30 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

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French. #01-01, 64 Tras St., 6222-6861, www.fleurdesel.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm, 6:3010:30pm. $$ A cozy space featuring an openconcept kitchen, this restaurant is helmed by French chef-owner Alexandre Lozachmeur, who has worked at the Spoon restaurants and Alain Ducasse Au Plaza Athénée. The menu includes classic French dishes such as Atlantic cod with beurre blanc and grand marnier-soaked baba, as well as an eight-course degustation meal and set lunches.

Salta

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Argentinean, South American, Steak. #01-56/57 Icon Village, 12 Gopeng St., 6225-8443, www. saltaparrilla.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat 11:30am-2:30pm, 6:30-11pm. $$ A massive five-meter parrilla (grill) greets you the moment you enter this steak specialist—so you know that they mean business. Each cut of beef comes naked, served on a plain white plate—all the better to appreciate its handsome form. It’s all remarkably wellexecuted, making it one of the best contemporary steakhouses in town.

Tippling Club

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European. 38 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6475-2217, www.tipplingclub.com. Open Mon-Fri noon-3pm; Mon-Sat 6-11pm. $$$$ Chef Ryan Clift’s much admired molecular cuisine is consistently impressive at Tippling Club’s new digs (it moved from Dempsey Hill at the end of 2013). The best way to experience Clift’s creations is the range of tasting menus, which include dishes like foie gras purée accompanied by apple in a variety of forms (freeze dried, fluid gel, dip, cold confit dice). An evening here is incomplete without a few of their ingenious cocktails—try the Night Shift at the Potato Factory, a mix of potato vodka, whiskey, roast potato skin and espresso.

Thanying Restaurant HHH Thai. 2/F Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6222-4688, www.singapore.amarahotels.com/ thanying. Open daily 11:30am-3pm, 6:30-10pm. $$ Without a doubt one of the best restaurants for Thai food but certainly not the cheapest. Look past the (charmingly) dated décor and you’ll find quick, efficient service and tasty fare—but it all works together. Make sure you try the sweet and spicy mango salad and spicy curries, while the dessert buffet will have you eating more than you should. Better suited for larger groups like family gettogethers or a meal with colleagues.

Tonkotsu King

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Japanese. #01-19 Orchid Hotel, 1 Tras Link, 6636-0855. Open daily 11:30am-3pm, 6-10pm. $ The second Singapore offering from Tokyo-based chef Keisuke Takeda, TV Tokyo’s Ramen King of 2011, this petite 18-seater ramen joint channels an old school, if clichéd, Japanese vibe. There’s only one pork-based soup stock, but it’s fantastic and well-worth the 10-20 minute wait (it’s strictly first-come, first-served). There’s something to be said for going back to basics and Tonkotsu King’s got our tick of approval.

Singapore’s Best Restaurants 31

C h i n atow n & Ta n j o n g paga r Amoy Street & Telok Ayer

The Market Grill

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American. 208 Telok Ayer St., 6221-3323, www.themarketgrill. com.sg. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am2:30pm, 6-10pm. $$$ The industrial looking space features an open-concept kitchen and zinc counter, and a 1.5 meter long live lobster tank. In the kitchen is executive chef Colin West who puts out a straightforward menu of juicy burgers and grills. The food may be simple but it’s flawlessly executed.

Otto Locanda Burlamacco Ristorante

Italian. #01-03, 32 Maxwell Rd., 6224-0978, www.ottolocanda.com. sg. Open Mon-Fri 11:30-2pm; Mon-Sat 6-10pm. $$

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Italian. 77A Amoy St., 6220-1763, www.burlamacco.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; Sun 11:30am-2:30pm; daily 6-10:30pm. $$ The joint effort of two good Italian friends, this intimate eatery is outfitted with dark wooden furniture and bright, carnivalesque artworks on the walls. Look forward to starters such as beef tripe stew in fresh tomato sauce with Parmesan cheese, pastas made in-house and other Tuscan classics—where executive chef and co-owner Gabriele Piegaia hails from—as well as home-made limoncello.

Moosehead Kitchen-Bar

Bartini Kitchen HHH

Mediterranean. 110 Telok Ayer St., 6636-8055, www.facebook. com/MooseheadKitchenBar. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm, 6-10pm; Sat 6-10:30pm. $$ A cozy 40-seat Mediterranean dining spot run by father-andson team Glen and Daniel Ballis, this joint is outfitted with quirky furnishings like tables made from repurposed sewing machines. On the menu are veggie-heavy small plates like roasted cauliflower with salsa verde and grilled avocado with quinoa and salmon roe, though hungrier diners can go for the Wagyu chuck rib with teriyaki mushrooms and bonito.

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Modern European. 29 Boon Tat St., 6220-0629, www. bartinikitchen.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 8-11am, 11:30am2:30pm; Mon-Sat 5:30-10pm; Sat-Sun 11am-4pm. $$ This welcoming eating spot by the folks behind Club Street watering hole Bartini offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu is modern European with some Middle-Eastern influences (the chef trained in Dubai) including a mezze platter and chicken with fregola. The food goes well with their range of cocktails (many familiar favorites from Bartini) and affordable wines.

32 Singapore’s Best Restaurants

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Located in Maxwell Chambers, a refurbished neo-classical heritage building, this chic trattoria is sister to OTTO Ristorante, with more affordable prices, and we think, even better food. Dig into hearty classics such as the terrific porcini mushroom lasagna, and dough fritters with ham-wrapped scamorza cheese, in a warm inviting space.

PepeNero

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Italian. 14 Stanley St., 6222-5808, www.pepenero.sg. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm, 6:30-11pm; Sat 6:30-10pm. $$$ Italian joints are a dime a dozen in this city, so it takes something really special to get our attention. This establishment in the CBD isn’t a fancy joint—although you will find the requisite white table linens—but it’s got just the right combination; a setting that’s smart enough for a business meeting yet atmospheric and unfussy enough for a date, great soulful Southern Italian fare (try the eggplant parmigiana) and outstanding service. These folks will do just about anything to make your dining experience a truly extraordinary one.

river valley

Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse HHH Italian, Steak. 25 Mohamed Sultan Rd., 6735-6739, www.bistecca. com.sg. Open Tue-Sun noon-2pm; Mon-Sun 6-10pm. $$$ Dim lighting, earth tone furnishings and croc print-inspired chocolate chairs give this Italian steakhouse a distinctly sexy feel; a great date venue. In case the name wasn’t a dead giveaway, it’s all about the meat here, so forgo their pastas in favor of their signature Fiorentina—a deliciously smoky char-grilled 1-1.2kg T-bone steak of marble score six Aussie Wagyu.

Bochinche

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Coriander Leaf HHH

Latin. #02-01, 22 Martin Rd., 6235-4990, www.bochinche. com.sg. Open Tue-Thu noon-3pm, 5:30pm-midnight; Fri noon-3pm, 5:30pm-1am; Sat 11am-1am; Sun 11am-midnight. $$

Asian, Fusion. #02-03 Blk. A Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6732-3354, www.corianderleaf. com. Open Mon-Fri noon-2pm, 6:30-10pm; Sat 6:30-10:30pm. $$

Noted Argentinean chef Diego Jacquet—whose London eateries Zoilo and Casa Malevo draw rave reviews—teamed up with the Spa Esprit Group in 2013 to launch this Singapore project offering sophisticated Argentinean plates. The spacious 100-seater features a bold design with lots of dark wood and red metal accents. A lively open kitchen occupies one side of the space, while on the other side is a long bar: The ample counter seating creates a real convivial atmosphere. The food is creative and perfect for sharing, with dishes including braised pig head croquettes and grilled octopus and tuna mayo.

It’s been years since Coriander Leaf started serving up mouthwatering Asian-inspired delicacies, first at The Gallery Hotel, and now at Clarke Quay. It’s still a reliable bet for great food amid calm surrounds, evidenced by the crowd of locals and expats alike. The pan-Asian menu spans South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East; be sure to try one of the samplers.

Cuisine Master Hotpot

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Hot Pot. 68 Boat Quay, 6438-9979. Open Mon-Fri 11am-2pm; Mon-Sat 6-11pm. $$$ The high end hotpot establishment serves premium sets, including multiple courses of top notch ingredients like baby lobster, grouper and Australian ribeye. There are also affordable noodle bowls, with toppings such as kurobuta pork, slipper lobster or grouper, for lunch.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 33

r i v e r va l l ey

Shoebox Canteen

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Western. 36 North Canal Rd., 9296-4836, www.facebook.com/ ShoeboxCanteen. Open Mon-Fri 11:45-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 6-9pm. $

El Rocho’s

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Mexican. 36 Circular Rd., 6438-7879, www.facebook.com/ elrochosmexican. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; Mon-Sat 6:30-10pm. $$

If the name hasn’t already given the game away, this eatery—colocated with bespoke cocktail bar Bitters & Love—is nice and cozy, seating only 30 diners. They’ve got a compact, rotating menu featuring hearty burgers and expertly cooked Western mains like fish and chips. With so many other dinner options in the area, it’s easy to pass on Shoebox Canteen’s prettied-up fast food items. But if you’ve got a hankering for a simple comforting lunch, this is hard to beat.

Owner-chef Marcus Loh (who trained at the Culinary Institute of America) heads Mexican restaurant El Rocho’s, a lively spot which serves items like fish ceviche and chicken mole, as well as snacky things like ox tongue tacos. It’s a great find in the Boat Quay area.

Japanese BBQ Yakiniku Yazawa HHHH Japanese. #01-01 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St., 6235-2941. Open daily 6-11:30pm. $$ You can’t swing a bat without knocking into a Japanese eatery in the Robertson Quay area, but this BBQ establishment is a standout, despite the pretty ordinary setup (think black booth seats, dim lighting and wood accents) and somewhat brash service. The superb meats on offer are reason enough to warrant a return visit—just ask any one of the many Japanese patrons who frequent it on a nightly basis. They’re also open till late.

Hai Di Lao

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Chinese, Steamboat. #02-04 Blk. D Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6337-8626. Open daily 10:30-3am. $$ The first overseas branch of the popular Sichuan hotpot chain offers good service, affordable grub and even free manicures. The food also doesn’t disappoint with seven savory soup options and a comprehensive list of items, including their justifiably famous mashed shrimp and homemade tofu.

34 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Tamashii Robataya

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Japanese. #02-01, 12 North Canal Rd., 6222-0316, www.tamashii. com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm.$$$ Run by chef-owner Patrick Tan— formerly of noted sushi restaurant Yoyogi—his wife Nicole and their business partner Max See, this joint specializes in Japanese grills or robatayaki. Snag a seat at the long chef’s counter: they serve food up on long wooden paddles, making for a fun interactive experience. And if you don’t want to blow the budget, affordable lunch sets are available too.

Past Perfect

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE WHITE RABBIT

Best Restaurants

Singapore’s

A heritage setting and a classic European menu make The White Rabbit an elegant dining experience.

et in a beautiful old chapel in the lush surroundings of Dempsey Hill, there’s nowhere else in Singapore quite like The White Rabbit. Its old-world charm is perfect for dates and quiet drinks. The Rabbit Hole, the restaurant’s dreamy, alfresco annex is also an intimate venue for weddings and receptions. On the menu, Head Chef Benjamin Tan features classic European comfort food. His Rangers Valley Wagyu Carpaccio comes with balsamic pearls while the 36-Hours Brandt Short Ribs have an Asian-leaning truffle miso glaze. Chef Tan also cooked alongside Masterchef Sang-Hoon Degeimbre when The White Rabbit participated in the World Gourmet Summit 2014. On the drinks front, there is a novel-like menu dedicated to everything vino. But if that’s not your thing, the cocktail menu is equally intriguing with creations like the Black Forest Mojito, which has a strong following among mojito connoisseurs. The White Rabbit delivers well in the brunch department too, and the signature Fry Up should cure any hangover with eggs any style, thick-cut bacon, house-made pork and spinach sausage, sautéed field mushrooms, tomatoes and brioche. Hungry yet? Take a trip to The White Rabbit and check it out for yourself.

Crispy Duck Leg with Tarte of Wild Mushroom Confit

WWW.THEWHITERABBIT.COM THE WHITE RABBIT, 39C HARDING RD., 9721-0536, LUNCH: TUES - FRI 12 - 2.30PM. DINNER: TUES - SUN 6:30 - 10:30PM. BRUNCH: SAT - SUN 10AM - 3PM. CLOSED ON MONDAYS. WEEKDAY SET LUNCH STARTS FROM $32++

www.wheresingapore.com

White Chocolate Soufflé

Rangers Valley Wagyu Carpaccio

d e m ps ey & Ta n g l i n

The Disgruntled Chef HHHH European. 26B Dempsey Rd., 64765305, www.disgruntledchef.com. Open Tue-Sat noon-2:30pm; TueThu 6-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 6-11:30pm; Sun noon-4:30pm, 6-10:30pm. $$ Superb food to share and impressively strong cocktails are the order of the day at chef-owner Daniel Sia’s minimalist space. The dining concept promotes the merits of sharing through modern European dishes executed with ease and grace. It’s hard to go wrong, but it would be a big mistake to not order the baked bone marrow with homemade persillade and cumin-spiced lamb ribs.

Basilico

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Buffet, Italian. 2/F Regent Singapore, 1 Cuscaden Rd., 6725-3232, www.regenthotels.com. Open daily 6:30am-10pm. $$ Basilico is the kind of swish, swank and stylish outfit that you can always count on to impress a hot date. But it’s not just the inviting atmosphere that keeps us coming back. The seasonal menu of authentic classics (both buffet and a la carte) has something to do with that, as does the extensive wine list. They also do mean weekend brunches and their cheese & wine nights are legendary for good reason.

Chopsuey Cafe

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Chinese. #01-23, 10 Dempsey Rd., 9224-6611, www.chopsueycafe.com. Open Mon-Thu 11:30am-midnight; Fri 11:30am-2am; Sat 9:30am-2am; Sun 9:30am-midnight. $$$ This chic yet relaxed establishment is in a corner black-and-white colonial house with a charming alfresco area. It dishes out interpretations of westernized Chinese classics such as General Tso’s Chicken Drumlets, as well as contemporary items including twicecooked citrus and spiced beef short rib. There’s also a handsome cocktail menu featuring regional flavors like ginger and Sichuan pepper.

36 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Don Quijote

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Spanish. #01-02, 7 Dempsey Rd., 6476-2811, www.don-quijoterestaurants.com. Open Mon-Wed 4-10:30pm; Thu-Fri 4pm-midnight; Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am10:30pm. $$ This Spanish restaurant has been around for seven years. On this fickle, competitive island, that’s really saying something. The place is a warm, convivial space with rustic brick walls. And the menu is full of comforting favorites like oxtail stew and fideua negra, a generous pan of noodles cooked with briny squid ink. From time to time, they also offer impressively-sized specials like the charcoal-grilled Tomahawk steaks (each weighing 1.2-2kg).

Jiang-Nan Chun

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Cantonese. Four Seasons Hotel, 190 Orchard Blvd., 6831-7220, www.fourseasons.com. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-2:30pm; daily 6-10:30pm; Sun 11am-3pm. $$$

Fat Cow

You’ll need to dress up to fit in, with the elegant décor and friendly but serious five-star service, in the dining room of this restaurant, where you can expect nothing less than top-notch Cantonese cuisine and dim sum. If there’s a misstep on the menu here, good luck finding it. This is elegant, formal Chinese dining at its best. Their Oriental brunch on the weekend is also noteworthy.

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Japanese, Steak. #01-01-02 Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Blvd., 6735-0308, www.fat-cow. com.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6-11pm. $$$$ A Japanese-inspired meat specialist that’s all about the Wagyu, with pale wooden chairs and tables, shoji doors and screens. Opt for a seat at the U-shaped 16-seater counter, so you can chat with the chefs as they prepare your food. Choose from prime cuts from Snake River Farms from the US or premium goods from the Saga, Ohmi and Iwate prefectures of Japan.

The Halia

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Asian, Continental. Ginger Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd., 8444-1148, www. thehalia.com. Open Mon-Thu noon9:30pm; Fri noon-10pm; Sat 10am10pm; Sun 10am-9:30pm.. $$$ There are few restaurants better than this one if you’re after a leisurely meal on a sunny day, thanks to its gorgeous location. The menu features items with an Asian twist, such as chilli crab spaghettini and locally-sourced frog porridge. Surrounded by greenery on the shaded deck, it’s just the thing if you’re looking for a quiet retreat.

LP+Tetsu

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Fusion. #03-18 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Rd., 6836-3112, www.lptetsu.com. Open daily 11:30am-2:20pm, 6-10:30pm. $$$ This fine dining debut is a collaborative effort between Laurent Peugeot of one-Michelin-starred Le Charlemagne in Burgundy and Food Junction. Peugeot masterfully showcases his signature French-Japanese style in marvelous creations, which change quarterly. Housed in a well-dressed space, it’s a suitable spot if you’ve got an important business meeting or want to indulge in the nouvelle cuisine degustation menu for dinner. Service is outstanding.

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d e m ps ey & Ta n g l i n

Pidgin Kitchen & Bar HHH Local, Fusion. #01-04, 7 Dempsey Rd., 6475-0080, www. pidgin.sg. Open Mon-Sat noon2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$ This industrial-chic 60-seater is one of the latest around town to serve up Mod Sin (modern Singaporean) cuisine. While its a cool place to dine—complete with a bar counter made of sleek, dark metal beams—chefowner Adrian Ling’s dishes are undoubtedly solid. The dishes are creative but not just for the sake of innovation; the components actually work together. Standouts include chicken rice arancini. the rich bak kwa (pork jerky) mac and cheese, and kaya bread and butter pudding for dessert.

The White Rabbit

European. 39C Harding Rd., 6473-9965, www.thewhiterabbit. com.sg. Open Tue-Fri noon-2:30pm; Tue-Sun 6:30-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 10:30am-2:30pm. $$$ The White Rabbit is a beautiful space housed in a restored Ebenezer chapel with stained glass windows, a high ceiling and a most appealing Old World vibe. That’s not to say it’s not hip, though, as is obvious from its cool clientele. It continues to live up to expectations with well-executed dishes like Wagyu carpaccio and desserts such as baked Alaska.

Yan Ting

Spruce

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American, Brunch, European. 320 Tanglin Rd., 6836-5528, www.spruce.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 10:30am-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 9am-10:30pm. $$ This restaurant/bar/bakery flanked by greenery in an offbeat location comprises an intimate indoor dining space, with a private dining room and a cheese room/wine cellar. The garden-like alfresco area is also very pleasant. But the bigger draw is the food, which is fresh and simple including plates like ahi tuna tartare and thick burgers.

38 singapore’s Best Restaurants

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Cantonese. 1/F The St Regis Singapore, 29 Tanglin Rd., 65066887, www.stregissingapore.com. Open Mon-Fri noon-2:30pm; daily 6:30-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 11:45am3pm. $$ It’s no wonder that the dining hall at Yan Ting, replete with stained glass panels, chandeliers and plush booths (perfect for covert canoodling), is as luxurious it gets. The food is as pretty as the décor, so expect excellent Cantonese cuisine and attentive, well-trained wait staff. Also worth a try is the weekend dim sum brunch.

bukit timah

Blu Kouzina

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Greek. 893 Bukit Timah Rd., 6875-0872, www. blukouzina.com. Open daily 6-10pm; Fri-Sun noon-2:30pm. $$ Greek restaurants on our island are few and far between, but this one along Bukit Timah Road is a real gem. It’s not just that it makes a great first impression with its Mediterranean vibe—think classically-seaside white and blue color scheme, wooden tables and chairs—and valet parking. More than that, the authentic Greek food they serve up is stellar; even the extra virgin olive oil is made from handpicked organic olives from the owner’s family estate in the hills of Messinea.

Skyve Wine Bistro

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Brunch, European. #01-17 Blk E, 10 Winstedt Rd., 6225-6690, www.skyve.sg. Open Sun-Thu 10am-11pm; Fri-Sat 10am-1am. $$ This all-day dining restaurant (we’re talking breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner) is spacious and comfortable, plus, the food is simple and delicious, infused with punchy Asian flavors. Don’t miss the fantastic sous vide poulet and kalbi beef short ribs.

My Little Spanish Place HHH Spanish. 619 Bukit Timah Rd., 6463-2810, www. mylittlespanishplace.com.sg. Open Tue-Fri 6:30-11pm; Sat-Sun 9:30am-3pm, 6:30-11pm. $$ Chefs Maria Sevillano and Edward Esmero put out an impressive range of tapas (think garlic mushrooms and grilled asparagus) and paella at this Bukit Timah gem, which even has a dedicated jamon bar. They also do a great brunch menu including some tasty churros and refreshing cava mimosas.

Violet Oon’s Kitchen

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Peranakan, Western. 881 Bukit Timah Rd., 6468-5430, www.violetoonskitchen.com. Open Tue-Thu 11:30am-10pm; Fri 11:30am-11pm; Sat 10:30am-11pm; Sun 10:30am-10pm. $$ As you’d expect from the doyenne of Nyonya cuisine, Oon’s most recent venture specializes in Peranakan food. The black-and-white family-run establishment—her children are co-owners and help to keep things running smoothly—is cozy and welcoming, with full-flavored Nyonya classics such as beef rendang, as well as fusion dishes including black pepper prawn pasta and Western offerings like shepherd’s pie—all of which are homemade.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 39

s e n tosa & h a rbou r f ro n t

Jamie’s Italian Italian. #01-165-167, 1 HarbourFront Walk, 6733-5500, www.jamieoliver.com. Open SunThu noon-10pm; Fri-Sat noon-11pm. $$ Never mind that back in the UK it’s a reliably affordable chain with over 30 outlets—Jamie Oliver’s first Jamie’s Italian outpost in Singapore still packs in the crowds. The large space, which has a clear sea view, serves up affordable everyday eats like prawn linguine (alongside other tasty pastas) and delicious grilled mains, which are very similar to the chain’s offerings worldwide.

Cassia

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Cantonese. Tanah Merah I, Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, 6591-5045, www.capellahotels.com. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$$ When it comes to the glam stakes, it’s hard to beat Cassia at the ultra chic Capella. The extensive menu at this fine-dining Chinese restaurant certainly measures up to its tasteful and warm décor; with ornamental lamps, gorgeous screens carved with flower like motifs, stately windows and lush sofas, all dressed in delicate shades of gray and lilac. Well-executed modern Chinese cuisine (with western and local influences)—topped off with discreet and attentive service.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante HHH Italian. 10 Telok Blangah Green, 6510-3068, www.alkaff.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm; daily 6-10:15pm; Sat-Sun 11:30am-3:30pm. $$ Housed in a beautiful colonial building, this two-story restaurant serves Italian classics, including some lovely housemade pastas such as squid ink tagliatelle. They also have a value-formoney lunch set on weekdays.

40 singapore’s Best Restaurants

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon HHHH French. Resorts World Sentosa, Hotel Michael, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688, www.joel-robuchon.net. Open Thu-Mon 6-10pm; Sat-Sun 11:30am-2pm. $$$$ The more “casual” of his two Singapore outposts, L’Atelier has the same distinctive red and black décor as the others around the world. Opt for the eight-course degustation découverte menu, which brings a seemingly endless procession of dishes, including highlights like yellowtail tartare with spicy tomato coulis, daikon bouillon and the unimaginably smooth and creamy mash potato.

Saint Pierre

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French. #01-15 Quayside Isle, 31 Ocean Way (Sentosa Cove), 6438-0887, www.saintpierre.com.sg. Open daily 5:30pm-midnight; Sat-Sun 11:30am-3pm. $$$ This stalwart French establishment, which used to be at Central Mall, has reopened at Quayside Isle, helmed by the irrepressible chef Emmanuel Stroobant. They’re serving a revamped menu including more vegetarian and seafood options. But one thing that has stayed the same: their stellar selection of cheese, featuring everything from mild tomme de savoie to pungent epoisses.

Skirt

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Steak, Western. W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way (Sentosa Cove), 6808-7278, www.wsingaporesentosacove. com. Open daily 6:30-11:30pm. $$$

Osia

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Australian. #02-140/141 Crockfords Tower (Festive Walk), 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688, www.osiarestaurant.com. Open Thu-Tue 6-10:30pm. $$$ Australian celebrity chef Scott Webster has designed an innovative menu inspired by fresh Australian produce, that combines Asian influences and western culinary techniques, with flair. Signature items to bet on are the espuma of papaya, polenta-crusted foie gras, asmanian milk-fed lamb and Valrhona hot chocolate soup.

Stylish steakhouse Skirt plays up the parilla bar concept with house-aged meats from Argentina, Australia and the US such as Blackmore Wagyu. The meats also come with an impressive array of accompaniments like homemade sauces and flavored salts. There’s also a handsome wine list. The dramatic design—with horn chandeliers cascading from the ceiling—is pretty stunning too.

sponso r e d listin g

Quayside Fish Bar & Bistro Australian. #01-11 Quayside Isle, 31 Ocean Way (Sentosa Cove), 6268-8633, www.qsfishbar.com. Open Tue, Sun 9am-midnight; WedThu noon-midnight; Fri noon-1am; Sat 9am-1am. This spacious, airy bistro has a gorgeous view of Sentosa Cove—you’ll do well to opt for a table outside— and serves up a wide range of fresh seafood options like oysters, lobster platters, chilli crab pasta and Tiger beer-battered fish and chips.

Tamarind Hill

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Thai. 30 Labrador Villa Rd., 6278-6364, www.tamarindrestaurants. com. Open daily noon-3pm, 6:30-10:30pm. $$ Set in a historic colonial building at Labrador Park with Asian-inspired décor and golden Buddha statues, this place feels just like a tropical resort. It doesn’t hurt that you get a non-alcoholic welcome drink upon arrival, featuring Southeast Asian flavors like lemongrass or tamarind. To eat, there are sophisticated, modern Thai plates like deep fried lobster in tamarind sauce, care of Thai-Canadian chef Thiti Thammanatr (who has cooked for newsmakers including Bill Clinton and Chow Yun Fat).

singapore’s Best Restaurants 41

kampong glam & little india

Fortnight

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Western. 78 Horne Rd., 9004-7827, www.facebook.com/ onefortnightonly. Open Tue-Thu noon-9pm; Fri noon-10pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6-10pm; Sun noon-3pm, 6-9pm. $

A for Arbite

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Fusion. #01-01, 28 Aliwal St., 8321-2252, www.arbite.com.sg. Open Tue-Fri 11:30am-3pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10:30pm. $$ Chef-proprietor Marc Wee offers creative fusion plates like beef tataki salad, pork loin and pineapple sandwiches and the deconstructed cookies and cream “cheesecake” alongside Belgian craft brews at this cheery (if slightly twee) eatery in Aliwal Arts Centre. The food menu comes with handy icons with suggested beer and tea pairings for each dish.

Cocotte

Tucked away at the back of café Windowsill Pies, this spot is a little cutesy but the food is a breath of fresh air. As the name suggests, the menu changes every two weeks, and each edition centers around a different theme. But from the color-coded Orange and Green—a mix of carrots and caramel from the “salad” edition—to the scotch eggs with curry mayo from the “poultry” round, everything we’ve tried here has been thoughtful and well-balanced, showcasing a level of technical skill rarely seen at such casual joints.

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French. 1/F Wanderlust, 2 Dickson Rd., 6298-1188, www. restaurantcocotte.com. Open Sun-Mon & Wed-Thu noon2:30pm, 6-10pm; Fri-Sat noon3pm, 6-10:30pm. $$ An unpretentious though still quite high-end dining destination, with an attractive lounge bar (give or take the rather uncomfortable metallic stools). This French restaurant/bar combines rustic chic with strippeddown industrial décor. Thankfully, the food is free of such fusion, and though the ambiance is playful, the kitchen takes their job extremely seriously. And it shows. Cocotte promotes a communal dining concept, so bring along company to share impressive starters like the pork rillettes and chicken liver mousse, or try the hearty stews. The venue also boasts an extensive and thoughtfully selected wine list and friendly service.

42 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Morsels

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Fusion. 35 Mayo St., 6396-6302, www.morsels.com.sg. Open Tue-Thu 6-10pm; Fri-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$ Run by Singaporean couple and chef-owners Bryan Chia and Petrina Loh, this 40-seater serves up fusion recipes like their squid ink risotto with salted egg sauce. Loh graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in San Francisco, and Chia studied at the Culinary Institute of America, so you can be sure the chefs know their stuff.

Symmetry

Mustard

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Brunch, European. #01-01, 9 Jalan Kubor, 6291-9901, www.symmetry.com.sg. Open Mon 10:30am-9pm; Tue-Thu 10:30am-11pm; Fri 10:30ammidnight; Sat 9am-midnight; Sun 9am-9pm. $$

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Indian. 32 Race Course Rd., 6297-8422, www.mustardsingapore. com. Open Sun-Fri 11:30am-3pm, 6-10:45pm; Sat 11:30am-4pm, 6-10:45pm. $ There’s no shortage of decent Indian eateries along Racecourse Road, and this restaurant specializing in Bengali and Punjabi cuisine is one of its brightest stars. Occupying a modest space in the shadow of its bigger and better known neighbors, eating here is a truly delightful experience. Service, while good, plays second fiddle to the mouthwatering food. You’d do well to order yourself the rich and spicy coconut prawn curry, a moreish dal tadka and kosha mansho (sautéed mutton curry). The best mid-priced Indian establishment in town.

Tucked away on a little street in Kampong Glam, this eatery set up by Le Cordon Bleu grad Abby Lim is a cool space with a great brunch menu (the eggs benedict is killer). If you’re after a quiet spot for dinner, this is a good bet too, with dishes like quinoa salad with cranberries.

Nox—Dine in the Dark HHH Modern European. 269 Beach Rd., 6298-0708, www.noxdineinthedark. com. Open daily 6pm-midnight. $$ The unique concept of dining in a pitch black room, which has swept the world, is now in Singapore. You can’t actually see the main dining room but well-trained servers—all blind or visually impaired—will put you at ease. The restaurant’s modern European fare is solid and served in three courses per meal, each comprising four little bowls which you are instructed to eat in a clockwise direction. It may seem gimmicky but a meal here is plain good fun—it’ll put your senses to the test.

Toots Brasserie

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French. The Sultan Hotel, 101 Jalan Sultan, 6292-0740, www.tootsbrasserie.com. Open daily 7:30-10:30am; Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm; Tue-Sat 6-10:30pm. $$ The Sultan Hotel’s anchor restaurant is a 40 seat French eatery helmed by chef Jason Wong, who served for seven years as head chef of Bistro Petit Salut at Holland Village. Outfitted with velvety upholstered chairs, purple chandeliers and pretty mosaic-tiled floors, the dimly lit spot is rather romantic. Tuck into a comforting pre-show dinner of French standards, before heading upstairs to SingJazz Club.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 43

e ls ew h e r e

Immigrants

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Local. 467 Joo Chiat Rd., 85117322, www.immigrants-gastrobar. com. Open daily 5pm-1am. $$

Grub

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Western, Brunch. 510 Ang Mo Kio Ave. 1, 6459-5743, www.grub.com. sg. Open Tue-Fri 11am-3pm, 5:30-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 9am-4pm, 5:30-10:30pm. $

By veteran chef Damian D’Silva, this laid-back gastropub has applied the small plates concept to local cuisine with a Eurasian focus, served up in a large chilled-out space that houses a bar and a more homely dining room in the back—the combination of old-fashioned wooden chairs, mosaic tiled flooring and red brick walls easily brings to mind memories of yesteryear. In addition, D’Silva’s own penchant for craft beers and whiskeys has resulted in a respectable list of tipples that are great paired with signatures such as sambal buah keluak fried rice.

Set in Bishan Park, this idealistic eatery offers food that’s sustainably sourced where possible. The menu comprises dishes we could eat every day—unfussy recipes including lots of burgers, which you can wash down with value-for-money craft brews. They also do good brunch on weekends.

Ikyu

HHHH

Japanese. 5 Yong Siak St., 9663-2003, www.ikyu.com. sg. Open Tue-Sun 11:30am10:30pm. $$

Kilo

Outfitted with industrial chic elements like exposed pipes, light bulbs, concrete floors and black metal furnishings, Ikyu certainly fits into the hipster Tiong Bahru enclave. A stylish yet casual place with restrained portions of great, unstuffy Japanese food, helmed by executive chef Takuma Seki (formerly of Marina Bay Sands’ Hide Yamamoto). The menu includes modern Japanese dishes like foie gras with pink pepper and crispy spicy salmon rolls. For the really hungry, there’s a sevencourse omakase.

Stepping into this buzzing industrial space with bare concrete floors and glass tables is a little like stepping into a friend’s minimalist apartment for a dinner party. Raw items like ceviche and Hawaiian-inspired poke still make an appearance, while pizzas deserve a special mention. This hidden gem is a rarity, possessing just the right laidback vibe and yummy food. Finish off your meal with a stroll along the nearby Kallang River.

44 singapore’s Best Restaurants

HHHHH

Italian, Japanese. #02-01, 66 Kampong Bugis, 6467-3987, www. kilokitchen.com. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-midnight. $$

Open Door Policy HHHH

Nosh

European. 19 Yong Siak St., 6221-9307, www.odpsingapore. com. Open Mon noon-3pm, 6-10:30pm; Wed-Sun noon-3pm, 6-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 11am-3pm. $$$

HHH

Western. 9 Rochester Park, 6779-4644, www.nosh.com.sg. Open Tue-Thu 6-11pm; Sun 6-11pm; Fri-Sat 6pm-midnight; Sat-Sun 10:30am-2:30pm. $$ A relaxed bistro set amongst a cluster of black-and-white colonial houses, with a gorgeous alfresco space and a charming upstairs dining room. Creations range from Maryland crab cake with red coconut curry coulis to more substantial options such as Kurobuta pork belly with sweet potato mash. It’s a great date spot, and boasts a compact cocktail list of well-executed drinks.

Chef Daniele Sperindio puts out consistently excellent dishes like beetroot risotto, glazed iberico pork belly and handmade chorizo tortelli with fried sage at this industrial-chic restaurant. There’s also a great dedicated coffee bar and enthusiastic, informed service that makes the venue somewhere you’d be happy to hang out, both before and after you’re done eating.

Old School Delights HHH Local. 215M Upper Thomson Rd., 6458-4518, www. oldschooldelights.com. Open Tue-Fri 11:30am-10:30pm; Sat-Sun 11am-10:30pm. $ Kudos to Old School Delights for bringing back canteen favorites and making them cool again. This unassuming little joint in Thomson channels uniformed days of yesteryear, with concrete flooring, light wooden chairs and tables, and a large chalkboard sprawling across the main wall. The selection of local faves such as laksa and nasi lemak are good bets, although it’s the full-flavored mee siam that really stands out. A great spot with good service and wallet-friendly prices, although it is a little out of the way.

Privé Grill

HHH

American, Brunch. #01-01/04 Marina at Keppel Bay, 2 Keppel Bay Vista, 6776-0777, www.prive.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11:30-3pm; Mon-Sat 6:30-11:30pm. $ This port of call has a nice waterfront location. It’s the ideal place for a quiet meal and is particularly appealing in the evenings with a view of the yacht-filled marina. Their well-charred Josper-grilled steaks are succulent and impossible to resist.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 45

i n d e x In alphabetical order &Made.......................................... 10 #01-04 to 06 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Rd., 6690-7566.

10 at Claymore............................. 10 G/F Pan Pacific Hotel, 10 Claymore Rd., 6831-6686.

Cherry Garden.............................. 17 Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Marina Square, 5 Raffles Ave., 6885-3500.

Chopsuey Café.............................. 36

#02-04 Blk. D Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6337-8626.

Cocotte........................................ 33

Han.............................................. 15

#01-23, 10 Dempsey Rd., 9224-6611.

1/F, Wanderlust, 2 Dickson Rd., 6298-1188.

Coriander Leaf.............................. 10

A for Arbite................................... 42

#02-03 Blk. A Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6732-3354.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante............. 40

Crystal Jade Golden Palace........... 10

#01-01 28 Aliwal St., 8321-2252.

10 Telok Blangah Green, 6510-3068.

Artichoke........................................ 7 Sculpture Square, 161 Middle Rd., 6336-6949.

Bacchanalia.................................. 14 23A Coleman St., 6509-1453.

Balzac Brasserie........................... 14 #01-01 Rendezvous Gallery, Rendezvous Hotel, 9 Bras Basah Rd., 6336-0797.

Bar-Roque Grill............................. 30

Hai Di Lao..................................... 34

#05-22/24 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 6734-6866.

Cuisine Master Hotpot.................. 33 68 Boat Quay, 6438-9979.

Cut................................................. 6 #B1-71 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8517.

db Bistro Moderne........................ 17 #B1-48 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8525.

#01-04 Odeon Towers, 331 North Bridge Rd., 6336-2466.

The Halia...................................... 37

Ginger Garden, Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd., 8444-1148.

Hashida Sushi............................... 11 #02-37 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6733-2114.

Iggy’s............................................ 11 3/F Hilton Singapore, 581 Orchard Rd., 6732-2234.

Ikyu.............................................. 44 5 Yong Siak St., 9663-2003.

inItaly Bar Ristorante.................... 33 38 Craig Rd., 6423-0918.

Ding Dong..................................... 26

Immigrants................................... 44

Bartini Kitchen.............................. 32

The Disgruntled Chef.................... 36

Imperial Treasure Shanghai Cuisine......................................... 11

Basilico......................................... 36

Don Quijote.................................. 36

#01-00 Amara Hotel, 165 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6444-9672. 29 Boon Tat St., 6220-0629.

2/F Regent Singapore, 1 Cuscaden Rd., 6725-3232.

Bedrock Bar &Grill.......................... 8 #01-05 Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard, 96 Somerset Rd., 6238-0054

Binomio.......................................... 8 #01-02 Craig Place, 20 Craig Rd., 6557-0547.

Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse......... 33 25 Mohamed Sultan Rd., 6735-6739.

Bistro Soori.................................. 24 2 Teck Lim Rd., 6438-3802.

The Black Swan............................ 17 19 Cecil St., 8181-3305.

Blu Kouzina.................................. 39 893 Bukit Timah Rd., 6875-0872.

Bochinche..................................... 33 #02-01, 22 Martin Rd., 6235-4990.

Brasserie Gavroche....................... 30 66 Tras St., 6225-8266.

Broth............................................ 21 21 Duxton Hill, 6323-3353.

Buona Terra.................................. 10 Chateau TCC, 29 Scotts Rd., 6733-0209.

Burlamacco Ristorante.................. 32 77A Amoy St., 6220-1763.

Burnt Ends.................................... 24 20 Teck Lim Rd., 6224-3933.

Buyan Russian Restaurant & Caviar Bar..................................... 21 9 Duxton Hill, 6223-7008.

Cassia ......................................... 40 Tanah Merah I, Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, 6591-5045.

Catalunya..................................... 17 The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, 6534-0886.

46 singapore’s Best Restaurants

23 Ann Siang Rd., 6557-0189.

26B Dempsey Rd., 6476-5305.

#01-02 7 Dempsey Rd., 6476-2811.

467 Joo Chiat Rd., 8511-7322.

#04-22 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6836-6909.

Ippudo SG..................................... 11 #04-02 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6235-2797.

Edge............................................. 18

Ito-Kacho...................................... 12

3/F Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Blvd., 6826-8240.

#04-08 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6836-0111.

El Rocho’s..................................... 34

Izy................................................ 26

36 Circular Rd., 6438-7879.

Entre-nous Creperie...................... 14 #01-01, 27 Seah St., 6333-4671.

Esquina......................................... 24 16 Jiak Chuan Rd., 6222-1616.

Fat Cow........................................ 37 #01-01/02 Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Blvd., 6735-0308.

Fleur De Sel.................................. 30 #01-01, 64 Tras St., 6222-6861.

Fordham & Grand.......................... 21

27 Club St., 6220-3327.

Jaan............................................... 6 70/F Equinox Complex, Swissôtel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Rd., 6837-3322.

Jamie’s Italian............................... 40 #01-165/167 1 HarbourFront Walk, 6733-5500.

Japanese BBQ Yakiniku Yazawa..... 34 #01-01 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St., 6235-2941.

Jiang-Nan Chun............................ 37

43 Craig Rd., 6221-3088.

Four Seasons Hotel, 190 Orchard Blvd., 6831-7220.

Forlino.......................................... 18

Joël Robuchon Restaurant.............. 8

#02-06 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., 6990-7564.

Folks Collective............................. 18 #01-25 China Square Central, 20 Cross St., 6536-6739.

Fortnight....................................... 42 78 Horne Rd., 9004-7827.

Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar............................................ 15 #01-02 Talib Centre, 36 Purvis St., 6837-1468.

Grub............................................. 44 510 Ang Mo Kio Ave. 1, 6459-5743.

Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688.

Kilo............................................... 44 #02-01, 66 Kampong Bugis, 6467-3987.

Ki-sho........................................... 12 Chateau TCC, 29 Scotts Rd., 6733-5251.

Ku Dé Ta....................................... 18 57/F Sands SkyPark, Marina Bay Sands Tower 3, 1 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7688.

La Cantine.................................... 19 #01-01 Asia Square Tower 1, 8 Marina View, 6690-7567.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon............ 40

Ola Cocina Del Mar....................... 19

Le Bistrot Du Sommelier................. 7

Old School Delights...................... 45 215M Upper Thomson Rd., 6458-4518.

#01-02 Pan Pacific Orchard, 10 Claymore Rd., 6737-3253.

L’Entrecôte................................... 22

Open Door Policy.......................... 45

Spruce.......................................... 38

Les Amis....................................... 12

Osia.............................................. 41

Stellar at 1-Altitude...................... 20

Resorts World Sentosa, Hotel Michael, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688. 53 Armenian St., 6333-1982. 36 Duxton Hill, 6690-7561.

#02-16 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd., 6733-2225.

Lime House................................... 25 2 Jiak Chuan Rd., 6222-3130.

#01-06 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, 12 Marina Blvd., 6604-7050.

19 Yong Siak St., 6221-9307.

#02-140/141 Crockfords Tower (FestiveWalk), 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688.

Otto Locanda................................ 32

The Song of India......................... 13 33 Scotts Rd., 6836-0055.

Sopra Cucina & Bar....................... 13

320 Tanglin Rd., 6836-5528.

62/F One Raffles Place, OUB Centre, 1 Raffles Place, 6438-0410

Sushi Ichi..................................... 13

Lolla............................................. 26

#01-03, 32 Maxwell Rd., 6224-0978.

#02-02 Scotts Square, 6 Scotts Rd., 6299-0014.

Oxwell & Co.................................. 27 5 Ann Siang Hill, 6438-3984.

Symmetry..................................... 43

LP+Tetsu...................................... 37 Lucha Loco................................... 22

The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill..... 20

22 Ann Siang Rd., 6423-1228.

#03-18 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Rd., 6836-3112. 15 Duxton Hill, 6226-3938.

Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House... 27 20 Gemmill Lane, 6221-4468.

#01-01 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd., 6438-0400.

PepeNero...................................... 32 14 Stanley St., 6222-5808.

Pidgin Kitchen & Bar..................... 30

#01-01, 9 Jalan Kubor, 6291-9901.

Tamashii Robataya........................ 34 #02-01, 12 North Canal Rd., 6222-0316.

Tamarind Hill................................ 41 30 Labrador Villa Rd., 6278-6364.

Tandoor........................................ 13

Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant.................................... 19

#01-04, 7 Dempsey Rd., 6475-0080.

B1/F Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, 11 Cavenagh Rd., 6733-8333.

Pollen........................................... 20

Taratata Bistrot............................ 25

Majestic Restaurant...................... 28

Privé Grill...................................... 45

The Market Grill............................ 32

Punjab Grill..................................... 7

#01-10 Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6604-6604.

New Majestic Hotel, 31-37 Bukit Pasoh Rd., 6511-4718. 208 Telok Ayer St., 6221-3323.

Min Jiang...................................... 12 G/F Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Rd., 6730-1704.

Mikuni.......................................... 15 3/F Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 6431-6156.

Moosehead Kitchen-Bar................ 32 110 Telok Ayer St., 6636-8055.

Morsels......................................... 42 35 Mayo St., 6396-6302.

Morton’s of Chicago...................... 18 4/F Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, 5 Raffles Ave., 6339-3740.

Mustard........................................ 43 32 Race Course Rd., 6297-8422.

My Little Spanish Place................. 39 619 Bukit Timah Rd., 6463-2810.

#01-09 Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6604-9988. #01-01/04 Marina at Keppel Bay, 2 Keppel Bay Vista, 6776-0777.

#B1-01A The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7395.

Restaurant Andre.......................... 28 41 Bukit Pasoh Rd., 6534-8880.

Restaurant Ember......................... 25 G/F Hotel 1929, 50 Keong Saik Rd., 6347-1928.

Sabio Tapas Bar & Restaurant....... 22 5 Duxton Hill, 6690-7562.

Saint Pierre.................................. 41 #01-15 Quayside Isle, 31 Ocean Way (Sentosa Cove), 6438-0887.

Salta............................................. 31 #01-56/57 Icon Village, 12 Gopeng St., 6225-8443.

Salt Grill....................................... 12

41 Malan Rd., 6694-0807.

55/F ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6592-5118.

Nicolas Le Restaurant................... 25

Salt Tapas & Bar........................... 16

The Naked Finn............................... 8 10 Teck Lim Rd., 6224-2404.

Nosh............................................. 45 9 Rochester Park, 6779-4644.

Noti.............................................. 27 54 Club St., 6222-0089.

Nox—Dine in the Dark................... 43 269 Beach Rd., 6298-0708.

OCF.............................................. 15 #02-02 The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, 6333-9312.

#01-22A Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Rd., 6837-0995.

Saveur.......................................... 16 #01-04, 5 Purvis St., 6333-3121.

Senso Ristorante & Bar................. 27 21 Club St., 6224-3534.

Shoebox Canteen.......................... 34 36 North Canal Rd., 9296-4836.

Skirt............................................. 41

35A Keong Saik Rd., 6221-4506.

Thanying Restaurant..................... 31 2/F Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6222-4688.

Tippling Club................................ 31 38 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6475-2217.

Tonkotsu King............................... 31 #01-19 Orchid Hotel, 1 Tras Link, 6636-0855.

Toots Brasserie............................. 43 The Sultan Hotel, 101 Jalan Sultan, 6292-0740.

Violet Oon’s Kitchen..................... 39 881 Bukit Timah Rd., 6468-5430.

Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant..... 16 2/F Carlton Hotel, 76 Bras Basah Rd., 6311-8188.

Waku Ghin...................................... 6

#02-02 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8507.

Wan Hao....................................... 13 3/F Singapore Marriott Hotel, 320 Orchard Rd., 6831-4605.

The White Rabbit.......................... 33 39C Harding Rd., 6473-9965.

Wooloomooloo Steakhouse........... 16 3/F Swissôtel The Stamford, Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd., 6338-0261.

Yan Ting....................................... 38 1/F The St Regis Singapore, 29 Tanglin Rd., 6506-6887.

W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way (Sentosa Cove), 6808-7278.

Skyve Wine Bistro......................... 39 #01-17 Blk E, 10 Winstedt Rd., 6225-6690.

singapore’s Best Restaurants 47

i n d e x By cuisine

American Bedrock Bar & Grill.................................8 Fordham & Grand................................ 21 Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House....... 27 The Market Grill................................... 32 Morton’s Of Chicago............................ 19 The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill.......... 20 Privé Grill.............................................. 45 Spruce.................................................. 38

Argentine Bochinche............................................ 33 Salta...................................................... 31

Asian Coriander Leaf..................................... 33 Ding Dong............................................. 26 The Halia.............................................. 37 Ku Dé Ta................................................ 18

Australian Broth..................................................... 21 Osia....................................................... 41 Salt Grill................................................ 12

Caribbean Lime House.......................................... 25

Chinese Cassia................................................... 40 Cherry Garden..................................... 17 Chopsuey Café..................................... 36 Crystal Jade Golden Palace................ 10 Cuisine Master Hotpot........................ 33 Hai Di Lao............................................. 34 Imperial Treasure Shanghai Cuisine.. 11 Jiang-Nan Chun................................... 37 Majestic Bay Seafood.......................... 19 Majestic Restaurant............................ 28 Min Jiang.............................................. 12 Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant......... 16 Wan Hao............................................... 13 Yan Ting................................................ 38

European Bacchanalia.......................................... 14 Bartini Kitchen..................................... 32 The Black Swan.................................... 17 The Disgruntled Chef.......................... 36 Iggy’s.................................................... 11 Nox–Dine in the Dark.......................... 43 Pollen.................................................... 20 Open Door Policy................................. 45 Oxwell & Co.......................................... 27 Restaurant Ember............................... 25 Skyve Wine Bistro................................ 39 Stellar at 1-Altitude.............................. 20 Symmetry............................................. 43 Tippling Club........................................ 31 The White Rabbit................................. 38

French Balzac Brasserie................................ 174 Brasserie Gavroche............................. 30

48 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Bar-Roque Grill.................................... 30 Cocotte................................................. 42 db Bistro Moderne............................... 17 Entre-nous Creperie............................ 14 Fleur De Sel.......................................... 30 Jaan.........................................................6 Joël Robuchon Restaurant.....................8 L’atelier De Joël Robuchon.................. 40 La Cantine............................................ 19 Le Bistrot Du Sommelier........................7 L’Entrecôte........................................... 22 Les Amis............................................... 12 LP+Tetsu.............................................. 37 Nicolas Le Restaurant......................... 25 OCF....................................................... 15 Restaurant Andre................................. 28 Saint Pierre.......................................... 41 Saveur................................................... 16 Taratata Bistrot.................................... 25 Toots Brasserie.................................... 43

Fusion A for Arbite........................................... 42 Bistro Soori.......................................... 24 Kilo........................................................ 44 Morsels................................................. 42

Greek Blu Kouzina.......................................... 39

Indian Mustard................................................ 43 Punjab Grill..............................................7 The Song Of India................................ 15 Tandoor................................................ 13

International Edge...................................................... 18

Italian Alkaff Mansion Ristorante................... 40 Basilico................................................. 36 Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse.............. 33 Buona Terra.......................................... 10 Burlamacco Ristorante....................... 32 Forlino................................................... 18 Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar...... 15 inItaly Bar Ristorante.......................... 22 Jamie’s Italian...................................... 40 Noti....................................................... 27 Otto Locanda....................................... 32 PepeNero.............................................. 32 Senso Ristorante & Bar....................... 27 Sopra Cucina & Bar............................. 13

Japanese Fat Cow............................................... 532 Han........................................................ 15 Hashida Sushi...................................... 11 Ikyu....................................................... 44 Ippudo SG............................................. 11 Ito-Kacho.............................................. 12 Izy.......................................................... 26 Japanese BBQ Yakiniku Yazawa.......... 34

Ki-Sho................................................... 12 Mikuni................................................... 15 Sushi Ichi.............................................. 13 Tamashii Robataya.............................. 34 Tonkotsu King...................................... 31 Waku Ghin...............................................6

Mediterranean Lolla...................................................... 26 Moosehead Kitchen-Bar..................... 32

Mexican Lucha Loco........................................... 22 El Rocho’s............................................. 34

Middle Eastern Artichoke.................................................7

Russian Buyan Russian Restaurant & Caviar Bar............................................. 21

Singaporean Immigrants........................................... 44 Old School Delights............................. 45 Pidgin Kitchen & Bar........................... 38 Violet Oon’s Kitchen............................ 39

Spanish Binomio...................................................8 Catalunya............................................. 17 Don Quijote.......................................... 36 Esquina................................................. 24 My Little Spanish Place....................... 39 Ola Cocina Del Mar.............................. 19 Sabio Tapas Bar & Restaurant............ 22 Salt Tapas & Bar................................... 16

Thai Folks Collective.................................... 18 Tamarind Hill........................................ 41 Thanying Restaurant........................... 31

Western 10 at Claymore..................................... 10 &Made.................................................. 10 Burnt Ends........................................... 24 Cut...........................................................6 Fortnight............................................... 42 Grub...................................................... 44 The Naked Finn.......................................8 Nosh...................................................... 45 Shoebox Canteen................................ 34 Skirt...................................................... 41 Wooloomooloo Steakhouse................ 16

i n d e x By price

Price Guide

For a 3-course meal (excluding wine) $

Less than $40 $40–$80 $ $ $ $80–120 $ $ $ $ $120–200 $ $ $ $ $ $200 and up $ $

$ Entre-nous Creperie............................ 14 Folks Collective.................................... 18 Fortnight............................................... 42 Grub...................................................... 44 Ippudo SG . .......................................... 11 Mustard................................................ 43 Old School Delights............................. 45 Prive Grill.............................................. 45 Saveur................................................... 16 Shoebox Canteen................................ 34 Tonkotsu King...................................... 31

$ $ &Made.................................................. 10 Alkaff Mansion Ristorante................... 40 A for Arbite........................................... 42 Artichoke.................................................7 Balzac Brasserie.................................. 14 Bar-Roque Grill.................................... 30 Bartini Kitchen..................................... 32 Basilico................................................. 36 Bistro Soori.......................................... 24 Blu Kouzina.......................................... 39 Bochinche............................................ 33 Broth..................................................... 21 Burlamacco Ristorante....................... 32 Buyan Russian Restaurant & Caviar Bar............................................. 21 Cherry Garden..................................... 17 Cocotte................................................. 42 Coriander Leaf..................................... 33 Crystal Jade Golden Palace................ 10 Ding Dong............................................. 26 Don Quijote.......................................... 36 Edge...................................................... 18 El Rocho’s............................................. 34 Fleur De Sel.......................................... 30 Hai Di Lao............................................. 34 Immigrants........................................... 44 Imperial Treasure Shanghai Cuisine.................................................. 11 Ikyu....................................................... 44 inItaly Bar Ristorante.......................... 22 Ito-Kacho.............................................. 12

50 singapore’s Best Restaurants

Jamie’s Italian...................................... 40 Japanese BBQ Yakiniku Yazawa.......... 34 Kilo........................................................ 44 L’Entrecote........................................... 22 Lime House.......................................... 25 Lucha Loco........................................... 22 Majestic Restaurant............................ 28 Min Jiang.............................................. 12 Moosehead Kitchen-Bar..................... 32 Morsels................................................. 42 My Little Spanish Place....................... 39 Nosh...................................................... 45 Noti....................................................... 27 Nox–Dine in the Dark . .........................43 Otto Locanda....................................... 32 Pidgin Kitchen & Bar........................... 38 Restaurant Ember............................... 25 Sabio Tapas Bar & Restaurant............ 22 Salt Tapas & Bar................................... 16 Salta...................................................... 31 Senso Ristorante & Bar....................... 27 Skyve Wine Bistro................................ 39 Spruce.................................................. 38 Symmetry............................................. 43 Tamarind Hill........................................ 41 Tandoor................................................ 13 Thanying Restaurant........................... 31 The Black Swan.................................... 17 The Disgruntled Chef.......................... 36 The Naked Finn.......................................8 The Song of India................................. 13 Toots Brasserie.................................... 43 Violet Oon’s Kitchen............................ 39 Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant......... 16 Wan Hao............................................... 13 Yan Ting................................................ 38

$ $ $ 10 at Claymore..................................... 10 Bacchanalia.......................................... 14 Bedrock Bar & Grill.................................8 Binomio...................................................8 Bistecca Tuscan Steakhouse.............. 33 Brasserie Gavroche............................. 30 Buona Terra.......................................... 10 Burnt Ends........................................... 24 Cassia................................................... 40 Catalunya............................................. 17 Chopsuey Cafe..................................... 36 Cuisine Master Hotpot........................ 33 db Bistro Moderne............................... 17 Esquina................................................. 24 Fordham & Grand................................ 21 Forlino................................................... 18

Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar...... 15 Izy.......................................................... 26 Jaan.........................................................6 Jiang-Nan Chun................................... 37 Ku De Ta................................................ 18 La Cantine............................................ 19 Le Bistrot Du Sommelier........................7 Lolla...................................................... 26 LP+Tetsu.............................................. 37 Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House....... 27 Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant...... 19 Mikuni................................................... 15 Morton’s of Chicago............................ 19 Nicolas Le Restaurant......................... 25 OCF....................................................... 15 Ola Cocina Del Mar.............................. 19 Open Door Policy................................. 45 Osia....................................................... 41 Oxwell & Co.......................................... 27 PepeNero.............................................. 32 Pollen.................................................... 20 Punjab Grill..............................................7 Salt Grill................................................ 12 Saint Pierre.......................................... 41 Skirt...................................................... 41 Sopra Cucina & Bar............................. 13 Stellar at 1-Altitude.............................. 20 Tamashii Robataya.............................. 34 Taratata Bistrot.................................... 25 The Halia.............................................. 37 The Market Grill................................... 32 The Pelican Seafood Bar & Grill.......... 20 The White Rabbit................................. 38 Wooloomooloo Steakhouse................ 16

$ $ $ $ Cut...........................................................6 Fat Cow................................................. 37 Han........................................................ 15 L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon.................. 40 Restaurant Andre................................. 28 Tippling Club........................................ 31

$ $ $ $ $ Hashida Sushi...................................... 11 Iggy’s.................................................... 11 Joel Robuchon Restaurant.....................8 Ki-sho.................................................... 12 Les Amis............................................... 12 Sushi Ichi.............................................. 13 Waku Ghin...............................................6