The Unedit: Singapore’s Dining, Hotels & Bars – Tried & To Try

October 18, 2024 In Guides & Staycations By Aisha

The Unedit: Singapore’s Dining, Hotels & Bars – Tried & To Try

Over the past year and a half, I’ve been curating an eclectic list of ‘to try’ and ‘tried’ experiences that capture the vibrant landscape of Singapore. Each new recommendation from friends or a serendipitous encounter adds another spot to explore, making this list a go-to guide for everything from casual nights out to special dinners with visiting friends or my husband’s work events.

Though I’ve often wanted to share detailed reviews, time has a way of flying by. So, I’ve compiled this evolving list to showcase our favourite finds and the many enticing spots that still await.

Categories include:

  • Dining: For those indulgent, special evenings.
  • Fancy: Wishlist spots we can’t wait to explore.
  • More Casual: More casual spots for more everyday dining, but still a little fancy.
  • Super Casual Dining: Laid-back, no-frills options.
  • Hawker Food: Local, immersive culinary experiences.
  • Bars and Rooftops: Elevated settings for drinks and views.
  • Hotels: Mostly on the wishlist, but definitely visited.
  • Closed: A new category for those we’ve sadly seen close.

With personal star ratings from * to ***** based on my experiences, this guide reflects my love for food, music, stunning interiors, good banter and excellent service. It’s a dynamic, ever-growing collection that celebrates all this fabulous city has to offer.

So dive in, explore, and enjoy—bon appétit!

Last Updated: 5 September 2024

 

Dining – For the more fancy night out

  • Sushi Samba – In my top 5 (new to tried list August 24)
    • Website: SushiSamba
    • Location: 168 Robinson Rd, Level 52, Capital Tower
    • Rating: ****.5 (WOW! Perched on the 52nd floor with 360-degree views, Sushi Samba is a blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian influences. Stunning NY-inspired interiors, private dining rooms and a fun bar make this spot unforgettable. Already booked my next meal after tasting a few of their phenomenal dishes!)
  • Le Bon Funk – A long time favourite (top 5 for consistently good)
    • Location: TP
    • Website: Le Bon Funk
    • Rating: **** (Atmosphere, delicious, Motown tunes & and a great wine list)
  • Olivia – A favourite (In my top 5)
    • Location: Tanjong Pagar (TP)
    • Website: Olivia
    • Rating: ****.5 (Atmosphere, delicious & fun)
  • Noa – New and fun with friends
    • Location: TP
    • Website: Noa
    • Rating: **** (Atmosphere, delicious, great wines, gorgeous interiors)
  • Big Wine Freaks
    • Website: Big Wine Freaks
    • Location: 44 Bukit Pasoh Rd
    • Rating: ***.5 (This champagne and wine bar in Tanjong Pagar is full of personality—think magenta hues, vintage touches and patterned upholstery. The extensive wine list pairs perfectly with Mediterranean-Asian bites. A must-visit for wine and good tune).
  • AIR CCC – Dempsey Hill – In my top 5 for different location and experience (new to tried list August 24)
    • Website: AIR CCC
    • Rating: ****.5 (AIR (Awareness, Impact, Responsibility) combines a farm-to-table restaurant, circular campus and cooking club, with a gorgeous garden party style lawn, my favourite modernist style architecture and sustainably made interiors. Founded by Noma and Room4Desserts alumni, AIR blends Southeast Asian and European cuisine in a casual yet eco-conscious setting. A must-try for a lunch or dinner with a story—chat with the passionate staff about their journey.)
  • Appetite – Really unique experience
    • Location: TP
    • Website: Appetite
    • Rating: **** (Intimate dining, delicious, tunes, unique interiors with art gallery and vinyl room for a bite or night cap)
  • Firangi Superstar – fun and great with a group
    • Location: TP
    • Website: Firangi Superstar
    • Rating: **** (Atmosphere, delicious, great cocktails and unique interiors)
  • Neon Pigeon
    • Website: Neon Pigeon
    • Rating: **** (Known for its dimly lit ambiance and delicious cuisine, Neon Pigeon offers a vibrant atmosphere with punchy tunes that complement its menu).
  • The Prince (formerly Fat Prince)
    • Website: The Prince
    • Rating: ***.5 (Ideal for brunching, The Prince boasts decadent interiors and a menu that combines modern Arabic and Middle Eastern flavours).
  • Birds of a Feather
    • Website: Birds of a Feather
    • Rating: ***.5 (Offering delicious fusion dishes and cocktails, Birds of a Feather creates a cozy shophouse atmosphere with leafy decor and happy-hour specials).
  • Alati
    • Website: Alati
    • Rating: ***.5 TP (Transport yourself to the white streets of the Greek islands at Alati, where delicious food and friendly staff await).
  • Shikar – Maxwell Reserve Hotel
    • Website: Maxwell Reserve Hotel
    • Rating: ***.5 (Immerse yourself in history and memorabilia at Maxwell Reserve Hotel. While Shikar the restaurant offers phenomenal cuisine, it lacks a little in atmosphere. Be sure to explore their lunch menu and visit their two bars, Isabele and Polo Bar).
  • Chop Suey
    • Location: Dempsey Hill
    • Website: Chop Suey
    • Rating: *** (Located in a charming black-and-white colonial-style building in Dempsey Hill, Chop Suey offers a wide selection of traditional and creative dim sum made by hand daily. Indulge in decadent desserts and refreshing cocktails while enjoying the tropical twist of its ambiance).
  • The Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar
    • Location: Dempsey Hill
    • Website: Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar
    • Rating: ***.5 (Gorgeous black and white interiors, delicious, creative contemporary Asian-inspired European food, in a relaxed atmosphere. We went for Sunday brunch with free flowing champagne and cocktails and it was delightful.
  • Claudine
    • Location: 39C Harding Road
    • Website: Claudine Restaurant 
    • Rating: **** (We went as part of a Angra Wine tasting evening and the food (and wine of course) was absolutely divine. The building is an old converted church with such gorgeous interiors, not only is it a feast for the eyes, the food was also presented as works of art). You can read more about my experience and see some more pics here.
  • Cure Restaurant – super fancy (new to tried list August 24)
    • Website: Cure
    • Location: 21 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089128 (Tanjong Pagar)
    • Rating: ***** (Hidden in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, Cure is where Irish heritage meets culinary artistry, showcasing modern interpretations of classic Irish dishes. We recently celebrated their 9th Anniversary with an 11-course tasting menu, with a liquid pairing. Every dish was a narrative of Chef Andrew Walsh’s journey—each course reflecting his evolution and passion for Irish produce and influences. I can’t stop thinking about the Potato, Cashel Blue Cheese & Soubise. And, as someone who never liked oysters, I was stunned to find myself savouring one, a testament to Walsh’s skill in reimagining ingredients. Dining here feels like you’re part of an intimate story; the different chefs bring out their dishes, Andrew comes for a chat, sharing the inspiration behind dishes, which made our visit feel even more special.  If you’re ready to be blown away, make sure you book ahead; it’s worth every penny. We went with a foodie from Australia, when he visited in July, and he is still talking about it.)

Fancy – On the Wishlist

  • Ginkyo By Kinki
    • Location: Holland Park
    • Website: Ginkyo By Kinki
    • Description: New Japanese restaurant
  • Lukes Oyster Bar and Chop House
  • The Club Room
    • Location: 115 Amoy Street, TP
    • Website: The Club Room
    • Description: Private dining serving Luke’s classics
  • Atout
    • Location: 40C Harding Rd
    • Website: Atout
    • Description: French chef serving European fusion in a unique location/atmosphere
  • LouLou
    • Location: 6 Keong Saik Rd
    • Website: LouLou
    • Description: French Cuisine & Wine bar with a quirky atmosphere
  • Fotia
    • Location: Duxton Hill
    • Website: Fotia
    • Description: Greek Restaurant with authentic cuisine
  • Jaan
    • Location: Stanford Hotel
    • Website: Jaan
    • Description: View and delicious food with a reasonable lunch menu
  • Fysh at Edition
    • Location: 38 Cuscaden Rd
    • Website: Fysh at Edition
    • Description: Australian Chef Josh Niland’s restaurant with mixed reviews
  • Aniba
    • Location: End of Boat Key
    • Website: Aniba
    • Description: New interpretation of Middle Eastern Cuisine with amazing interiors
  • Lerouy
    • Location: 7 Mohamed Sultan Rd
    • Website: Lerouy
    • Description: Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Christophe Lerouy
  • Cloud Street
    • Location: 84 Amoy St, TP
    • Website: Cloud Street
    • Description: 2-star Michelin Star restaurant recommended by multiple people
  • Araya
    • Location: 83 Neil Road, Duxton Hill
    • Website: Araya
    • Description: A culinary odyssey rooted in Chilean South Pacific cuisine with indigenous and Japanese ingredients.

 

  • So Many Standouts – Dempsey Hill

A little escape from the city, in lush surroundings the Dempsey enclave is home to family-friendly cafes, elite grocers, cool boutiques and high-end restaurants.

Following are some standouts still on the wishlist (See The Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar, Chop Suey, Claudine and Atout details above):

  • Burnt Ends: #65 of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants
  • Como Group – Has multiple restaurants under their banner and know how to create a unique experience.
  • Canchita Peruvian Cuisine:

 

More Casual Dining (still fancy)

  • Fico – East Coast Parkway (new to the tried list – August 24)
    • Website: Fico
    • Location: 1300 East Coast Parkway, Area F
    • Rating: ****.5 (Fico brings a slice of rustic Italy to Singapore’s East Coast, with an effortlessly chic ambiance reminiscent of lazy, sun-soaked afternoons in Puglia. With views of the beach, the restaurant’s outdoor terrace feels like a hidden oasis—perfect for a laid-back lunch or a breezy dinner. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by earthy tones, terracotta tiles and thoughtful touches that transport you far from the city’s hustle. Helmed by Chef Mirko Febbrile, Fico’s menu celebrates simple, honest Italian cooking, with ingredients sourced directly from Italy. My recent afternoon there was nothing short of divine— we dined al fresco, enjoying a light breeze and the sound of the waves while savouring fresh pasta, perfectly charred pizzas and a crisp glass of Prosecco. It felt like a mini escape. Fico is not just about food; it’s about atmosphere, a touch of nostalgia and a genuine love for the Italian way of life. If you’re in the mood for an authentic Italian dining experience by the sea, Fico should be at the top of your list.)
  • Sospiri (new to tried list August 24)
    • Location: Special note on this one as it is a tough one to find – IOI Central Boulevard Towers – 2 Central Blvd, #07-02 IOI Central Boulevard Towers. By Grab, ask to be dropped off on level 2, east side and when walking from ground level, the elevator is left from the escalators. Be prepared to ask for directions, as Google and Grab drivers are still catching up with this spot. But it is worth it with its elegant and vibrant interiors and sophisticated ambiance.
    • Website: Sospiri 
    • Rating: **** (South Italian restaurant with a fabulous rooftop bar. Chic interiors and good authentic food. Great to pop into the bar for an after work cocktail or a more special meal).
  • Tempt (new to the tried list – June 24)
    • Location: Purvis St
    • Website: Tempt
    • Rating: **** (Set in a conservation shophouse, I loved the outside/inside bar and Candice Leong, private chef and founder, creates dishes with a fabulous sense of playfulness and if you are lucky to have her join you she definitely is quite theatrical and has a story or two to tell. She was naming one of her cocktails while we were there and it was fun to be part of the journey.
    • Description: Fun and delicious; ask the team to direct you on this tempting journey with a spicy cocktail or two.
  • Native (new to tried in June 24)
    • Location: 52A Amoy Street, TP
    • Website: Native
    • Rating: **** (This exceeded expectations. I thought I was going to a delightful cocktail bar, however the service and food was amazing! Also in a gorgeous shophouse, we ate downstairs first and then went upstairs for post-dinner cocktails, and they have a whole different menu also focusing on regional products and ingredients. One to definitely add to the visit list).
  • North Miznon Singapore
    • Location: Amoy St
    • Website: North Miznon Singapore
    • Rating: **** (Delicious, creative dining experience modern Israeli cuisine by Michelin-starred MasterChef Eyal Shani)
  • Dragon Chamber
    • Location: 2 Circular Rd
    • Website: Dragon Chamber
    • Rating: ***.5 (Quirky dining experience with delicious food and atmosphere. We love the back room for groups)
  • The Butchers Wife
    • Website: The Butchers Wife
    • Rating: ***.5 (Gluten-free Brazilian restaurant & natural wine bar located in the heart of Tiong Bahru. I love going for lunch sitting outside and the Tiong Bahru slings are delicious).
  • Col – we like to pop in for a wine at the end of a night
    • Website: Col
    • Rating: ***.5 (COL is located in a converted warehouse in Keong Saik. Casual yet East London cool, dim lights, open kitchen, quirky art and food focused on punchy but elegant flavours by Colin Buchan. Delicious wine and cocktails too).
  • Ms Maria & Mr Singh
    • Location: TP
    • Website: Ms Maria & Mr Singh
    • Rating: ***.5 (Mexican Indian fusion in a fun and quirky setting. Great set menu)
  • Tilly’s Irish Restaurant/Pub (new to the tried list June 24)
    • Location: 31 Keong Sail Rd
    • Website: Tilly’s Irish Bar
    • Rating: **** (Now I am a sucker for the Irish (those who don’t know my husband is Irish and I have since been gifted the most amazing Irish family and friendship group) and if you are looking for good modern Irish food and a good pint (Guinness is the best in Singapore), and the craic, then pop in for some great 90s music and a fun night. Apparently the Sunday Roast is delicious too.
    • Wishlist – Chef Andrew Walsh is incredibly talented (and a genuinely great guy too) and is the mastermind behind Michelin star Cure Restaurant, 87 Club Street, Catfish Izakaya, Ember Beach Club at One and Only, Desaru Coast, Malaysia, Kees in 21 Carpenter and a raft of new exciting restaurants opening soon.
  • Bombay Brasserie (new to the tried list for June 24)
    • Location: 26 Beach Rd, B1 – 23/24/25 South Beach Av
    • Website: Taj Hotels – Bombay Brasserie
    • Rating: *** (Indian and Continental cuisine in a French brasserie setting, served in an interesting, tasty mix. Would be great in a group. Cocktails were the highlight).
  • Bakalaki
    • Website: Bakalaki
    • Rating: *** (Delicious Greek food however less on atmosphere as its a very large space )
  • PS Cafe
    • Location: Amoy Street
    • Website: PS Cafe
    • Rating: *** (Delicious, traditional black white interiors, great lunch atmosphere)
  • Caffe Fernet Singapore
  • Super Loco – very relaxed outdoor vibe
      • Website: Super Local Robertson Quay
      • Rating: *** (Fun Mexican on the river, staff like a laugh and they do a delicious frozen margarita)
  • Santis Pizza and Produce
    • Location: TP
    • Website: Santis
    • Rating: ***.5 (Like the casual inside/outdoor eating, never had a bag pasta or pizza there. Also love the wafting of pizza from the glorious big wood fired  pizza ovens:)
  • Publico Ristorante
    • Location: Robertson Quay
    • Website: Publico
    • Rating: ***.5 (Great for a weekend afternoon Italian and tunes. They do a good value bottomless brunch drinks on the weekends and the shared burrata is a personal favourite of mine).
  • Rosso Vino (new to the tried list June 24)
    • Location: Robertson Quay
    • Website: Rosso Vino
    • Rating: ***.5 (Super casual, authentic Italian cuisine, run by friendly owners from Napoli, dining alfresco along the waterfront of Robertson Quay. I wrote my Anywhere bike there and met a friend and it was perfect for a Tuesday night catchup. Dog friendly)

 

More Casual Wishlist

  • New kid in town: L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
    • Location: Club Street, TP
    • Website: L’Antica
    • Description: One of the oldest and best pizzerias in Naples, founded in 1870, has just opened up in Singapore.
  • Salt N Palm
    • Website: Salt n Palm
    • Description: Nestle in the colourful neighbourhood of Joo Chiat, Salt & Palm is bringing in a fun new take on the flavours of the East Indies, combining contemporary way of cooking yet sticking to the traditional spices to create the complex flavours.
  • Pasta Bar
    • Location: 01-05 Keong Saik Rd
    • Website: Pasta Bar
    • Description: Great lunch or dinner set menu experience
  • Kotuwa
    • Website: Kotuwa
    • Description: Sri Lankan cuisine experience

 

Super Casual Dining

  • Fourgather
    • Locations: inside Amoy Hotel, 76 Telok Ayer St, #01-02
    • Website: Fourgather
    • Rating: **** (Started by four friends, Fourgather in the historic Amoy Hotel (worth a look in itself) is a vibrant, bustling Thai restaurant that serves up unique Thai dishes that kick a punch. I said mild however Dav said spicy and there was definitely a sweat on).
  • Cafe FuFu – Woodfired Pizzas and Pasta at Redhill
    • Website: Cafe FuFu
    • Rating: ***.5 (We stumbled across this little gem of a local sourdough pizza place after leaving our local hawker in Redhill. Super cute, open from 11am, coffees, pizzas, flatbreads, pasta, small bites, delicious desserts and a beer. Dogs allowed when seated outside. What more could you want from a local).
  • Fennel by Komala Vilas
    • Website: Fennel
    • Rating: ***.5 (In our local River Valley area, this Southern Indian, vegan adventure is not only sooo delicious but super cheap so you can enjoy a few more extra dishes).
  • Little Farms – River Valley
    • Website: Little Farms All Natural & Organic Grocer
    • Rating:*** (Sometimes you just want a bit of home (like a good Aussie avocado) and little Farms in our local area, River Valley (there are multiple locations) has a wonderful menu, great outdoor seating so we can take Riley (our dog) and very reasonable bottles of wine if you want to make it into a date night (who needs an excuse:).
  • Abundance
    • Website: Abundance
    • Rating: ***.5 (Our local Taiwanese, super casual, friendly team, everything is yummy and they love a pun 🙂
  • Izakaya Hikari
    • Location: 190 Middle Road Fortune Centre
    • Website: Izakaya Hikari
    • Rating: *** (Traditional japanese eat house in a casual atmosphere)
  • Little Elephant
    • Website: Little Elephant Tiong Bahru
    • Rating: ***.5 (Fabulous little local Thai bistro with great vegetarian and ‘impossible meat’ plant based’ dishes).
  • Living Wholesome
    • Description: Vegetarian cuisine in various locations
  • Overseasy
    • Website: Overseasy
    • Description: Burger joint serving casual fare

 

Hawker Street Food – Very local

  • Zion Riverside Food Market – our local one.
    • Location: 70 Zion Rd
    • Website: Zion Riverside Food Market
    • Description: Local stalls and 2 Michelin Star treats. You have to try the Carrot Cake (made from white radish with egg – yummy).
  • Maxwell Food Centre
    • Location: 1 Kadayanallur St
    • Website: Maxwell Food Centre
    • Description: Famous hawker centre with local delicacies
  • Lau Pa Sat
    • Location: 18 Raffles Quay
    • Website: Lau Pa Sat
    • Description: Largest hawker centre in CBD with local and international food stalls
  • 75D Redhill Road Hawker
    • Location: 75D Redhill Road, Singapore 154075
    • Description: A local gem offering a mix of traditional delights and a few Western dishes. One of the smaller, newer hawkers that I’ve grown to love.

 

Bars, Rooftops & Pubs

  • Atlas (My absolute favourite)
    • Location: Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Rd, Bugis
    • Website: Atlas
    • Rating: ***** (Absolutely stunning 1920’s interiors – Conde Nast’s top 20 bar with a vast selection of drinks).
  • Southbridge Rooftop (new to the tried list June 24)
    • Location: 80 Boat Quay, Rooftop, Level 5
    • Website: Southbridge
    • Rating: **** (Moved this up as this is a hidden gem with brilliant views. Rooftop bar, attentive and fun staff, divine cocktails, I have not eaten there yet but it is definitely on the international guest Hitlist).
  • Cat Bite Club
    • Website: Cat Bite Club
    • Rating: ***** (Located on Duxton Rd, this hidden speakeasy (through a coffee shop and behind a curtain) is a cocktail haven for agave and rice spirit lovers. Expect divine cocktails and top-shelf service in an intimate setting.)
  • Ballroom by Barbary
    • Website: Ballroom by Barbary
    • Rating: ***.5 Great interiors and atmosphere with mean Martinis. Apparently after 12 the tables get moved away (sometimes not) and it turns into a raging nightclub).
  • Wildcard (new to tried list August 24)
    • Location: 405 Havelock Rd, #01-03 Furama RiverFront
    • Website: Wildcard
    • Rating *** (Don’t let the confusing 80s-style setting of the Furama RiverFront throw you. This hidden gem, tucked beside the entrance, is a cozy coffee and wine bar with a fantastic evening atmosphere and great bites. A lovely spot for wine and a cheese board, especially in an area short on bars.)
  • Employee Only 
    • Location: 112 Amoy Street
    • Website: Employee Only 
    • Rating: ***.5 (Serves great cocktails, great music and dancing)
  • Ce La Vi
    • Location – 57th floor Marina Bay Sands
    • Website: Ce La Vi
    • Rating: ***.5 (Amazing view of the city. Pricey however great venue for a favourite DJ set)
  • Kinki
    • Location: Marina Bay
    • Website: Kinki
    • Rating: ***.5: (Fun bar with great tunes and views of Marina Bay Sands. Japanese restaurant is delicious as well. A wonderful lunch destination).
  • Publico
    • Location: Robertson Quay
    • Website: Publico
    • Rating: ***.5: (Delicious Italian, happy hour negronis on the river)
  • Lantern 
    • Location: Fullerton By The Bay – Rooftop 
    • Website: Lantern 
    • Rating: ***.5 (Amazing view of Marina Bay Sands and great music, however as it is near the Fullerton poolside, all drinks are served in plastic cups, which I am not really a fan of).
  • Writers Bar Raffles
    • Location: Raffles Hotel
    • Website: Writers Bar
    • Rating: ***.5 (Classic bar with literary vibes at Raffles)
  • Spago Bar & Lounge
    • Website: Spago
    • Rating: ***.5 (It’s as close as you will get to the famous Marina Bay Sands infinity pool (if you are not a guest) and it is quite amusing watching the hundreds of Instagrammers take selfies as you sip your cocktails. Lovely traditional black and white interiors and I recommend sitting at the bar or over the other side of the bar looking over Gardens By the Bay).
  • LeVel 33
    • Website: LeVel 33
    • Rating: *** (The world’s highest urban microbrewery on level 33 with a brilliant view of Marina Bay. Check they are open as they often have private events)
  • Manhattan
    • Location: Conrad Singapore Orchard
    • Website: Manhattan
    • Rating: ***.5 (Inspired by the Golden Age of cocktails and fine drinking, Manhattan is reminiscent of a grand hotel bar, modern yet with a touch of old New York glamour and sophistication. Consistently ranked in the World’s 50 Best Bars, Manhattan presents the ultimate indulgence in artisanal spirits and classic cocktails, carefully crafted from house-made ingredients at Manhattan’s in-hotel rickhouse. I also love the complimentary welcome drink and snacks).
  • Mr Stork – wishlist
    • Location: level 39, Andaz Singapore
    • Website: Mr Stork 
    • Description: Nestled at the rooftop on Level 39, Mr Stork is an alfresco drinking and dining spot that houses 10 teepee huts and offers 360-degree views of the city below.
  • Smoke & Mirrors (new to tried list June 24)
    • Location: National Gallery Singapore
    • Website: Smoke and Mirrors
    • Rating: **.5 (Was very disappointed with Smoke and Mirrors, it is meant to be ranked #103 on Top 500 Bars in the world in 2023, and #60 on Asia’s Best Bars in 2022, and I found it rather tired, menu (mostly fried food) and cocktails a little naff. It is a long walk to get there through the gallery and for the inflated price due to its location and view I think there are a lot of better options. Even giving the place graces due to the National Day stand being there, the rest was underwhelming).
  • Tippling Club – wishlist
    • Location: Spans over three shophouse units at 38 Tanjong Pagar Road, 
    • Website: Tippling Club
    • Description: Classy cocktail bar with a creative menu led by Chef-Owner Ryan Clift
  • Skai – wishlist
    • Website: Skai
    • Description: Highest Restaurant in Singapore, perched on the 70th floor of Swissôtel The Stamford.
  • The Gibson Bar – wishlist
    • Location: 2nd Floor, 20 Bukit Pasoh Road
    • Website: The Gibson
    • Description: A cocktail bar by Jigger & Pony Group, Gibson is tucked away on the second floor of a heritage building in Singapore’s Chinatown precinct.
  • El Chido – wishlist
    • Location: Pullman Rooftop
    • Website: EL CHIDO
    • Description: Rooftop bar with a lively Mexican vibe
  • Nutmeg & Clove – wishlist
    • Location: City Hall
    • Website: Nutmeg & Clove
    • Description: Low-key, cozy bar offering artisanal cocktails with creative names inspired by Singapore history.
  • Sago House – wishlist
    • Location: 37 Duxton Hill, Chinatown
    • Website: Sago House
    • Description: A cosy hand-built bar that seats 35 people at most and serves a rotating menu of five to six cocktails in Chinatown received the top hospitality honours at this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards. 
  • No Sleep Club – wishlist
    • Location: Tanjong Pagar
    • Website: No Sleep Club
    • Description: Everyone’s Neighbourhood Bar. Good Vibes, Good Food, Great cocktails and natural wines.
  • Jigger & Pony – wishlist
    • Location: Tanjong Pagar
    • Website: Jigger & Pony
    • Description: Classy cocktail bar with a happy hour menu
  • Luca Loco – wishlist
    • Location: Duxton Hill
    • Website: Luca Loco
    • Description: A festive Mexican Mezcaleria with a lively atmosphere.

 

Hotels

Lastly you can’t talk food and bars if you don’t include some of the wonderful, boutique and grande, hotels in Singapore. Some of the Wishlist include;

  • Raffles Hotel
    • Website: Raffles Singapore
    • Rating: ****.5 (Wow, what a phenomenal and memorable experience (I was lucky to keep my friend company whilst in Singapore). From the minute you walk into the grand entrance, check-in, are you are walked to your suite and talked through your butler service, you never want to leave. Raffles opened its doors to guests in 1887 and is one of the few remaining 19th century hotels in the world. its neo-renaissance architecture and colonnaded portico, stands out amid its towering glass and steel-clad neighbours. The hotel evokes elegant, old-world glamour of a true grande dame, with 115 suites blend lofty architectural splendour and authentic details with all the comfort of modern technology and design. Definitely one to put on the Wishlist. So many amazing restaurants, the Afternoon Tea is a must and just walking around the building is a treat. I will be doing a separate journal on this as it was truly a once in a lifetime experience).
  • Capella 
    • Website: Capella Singapore
    • Description: At the heart of Singapore’s Sentosa Island two restored Tanah Merah colonial bungalows dating back to the 1880s have been restored into a luxury sanctuary whose hotel gardens and grounds are framed by the sea. Voted – No.1 Best Hotel Brand in the World / No.1 Best Hotel in Singapore / Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2023 – It’s on the wishlist!
  • The Singapore Edition – website: Edition SG
    • Rating: ***.5 (Gorgeous space and very instagramable, enjoy some food at Josh Niland’s Fysh, enjoy a drink at the fuchsia lobby bar or a punch at the electric blue Punch Bar. I have only had a drink at the Lobby Bar so have yet to try the rest which I am sure will be a wonderful experience).
  • The Warehouse Hotel
    • Website: The Warehouse Hotel
    • Description: Housed in a meticulously restored heritage building, the Warehouse Hotel combines Singapore’s rich culture, history and talent, bringing high design and comfort to the banks of the Singapore River in Robertson Quay (near where we live). On the Wishlist to try is the restaurant Po, offering refined modern Singaporean concept presenting an array of local classics and elevated Singaporean staples, and the lobby bar looks rather gorgeous.
  • The Mondrian Duxton Hill
    • Website: Mondrian Singapore Duxton
    • Description: With a rooftop infinity pool and Canyon Club bar, which I have enjoyed a cocktail or two, I do love how the Mondrian injects its signature blend of art, glamour and culinary flair into one of my favourite districts in town. From Southeast Asia’s first permanent KAWS installation to a cinematic rooftop pool, the 302 rooms and suites was created by award-winning designers from Studio Carter, inspired by Singapore’s traditional architecture, heritage arches and shutters that are translated into bold contemporary interpretations. It also has Aperitivo hour, at Bottega di Carna, available daily from 5 – 7pm with a charcuterie board and a choice of drink. Christina’s with local made produce and items on the ground floor, and Jungle Ballroom, where I have been for a dance I must admit. Other restaurants in the precinct include Noa (one of our faves), Suzuki, Araya and Tribal.
  • The Scarlet
    • Website: The Scarlet Singapore  https://thescarletsingapore.com/
    • Rating: *** (This was one of the first hotels I stayed at in Singapore when I worked here in a previous life over 15 years ago. In my favourite area, Tanjong Pagar, this boutique hotel set in a row of 13, 1868 shophouses and vintage 1924 Art Deco building, it is a juxtaposition of Singapore’s old and new, with its well preserved pre-World War Two architecture, integrated to reflect 21st-century modern day comforts. Great on price and ***** on location if you want to soak up the local neighbourhood vibes).
  • 21 Carpenter – website: 21 Carpenter
    • Description: A member of Design Hotels, 21 Carpenter is thoughtfully offers a unique balance of stimulation and pause. From the vibrancy of Michelin-starred chef Andrew Walsh’s neo-bistro and bar, Kee’s, to the serenity of the forty-eight rooms it is on the list to explore.
  • Figment – Boutique hotel alternative in Singapore homes
  • The Fullerton Bay Hotel – on the Wishlist with gorgeous views of MBS
    • Website: The Fullerton Bay
    • Description: Elegantly appointed in a contemporary international style, the 100 room waterfront location is a spectacular addition to Singapore’s vibrant heritage precinct.

 

Temporarily / Permanently Closed

  • Underdog Inn (closed June 2024)
    • Website: Underdog Inn
    • Rating: ***.5 (Cool meat bar with a lively atmosphere and amazing cocktails)
  • Bincho (formerly known as Bincho Yakitori – Tiong Bahru – Closed June 2024)
    • Website: Bincho
    • Rating: **** (Offering a quirky entrance at the back in the heritage neighbourhood of Moh Guan Terrace, Bincho transitions from a soup kitchen by day to a Japanese Yakitori restaurant styled after traditional Izakayas found throughout Japan.)
  • Braci
    • Location: Boat Quay
    • Website: Braci
    • Rating: **** Michelin Star (Indulge in a delicious degustation experience at Braci, located on Boat Quay. While the menu may be on the pricier end, the phenomenal staff and gorgeous intimate rooftop setting make it worth a visit).

 

And, if you love wine, food and experiences, follow Angra Wine as we have joined them for some super tasty and fun events and they often have tastings and unique experiences that are rather special.

The list will continue to grow and evolve as I discover new gems and revisit old favorites. Keep an eye out for updates and fresh additions to this ever-expanding compilation.

If you need any assistance with your itinerary when visiting Singapore then don’t hesitate to reach out as I love tailoring an adventure to your loves and at your pace.

Enjoy your exploration!

Big love,

Aisha xox

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