Best Dinner Places in Singapore: Top Picks

Singapore is a UNESCO-recognized food paradise, blending rich flavors from diverse cultures. With over 300 new eateries opening monthly, the city offers endless choices for memorable meals. Whether you crave street food or fine dining, there’s something for every taste.

This guide highlights top-rated spots, from Michelin-starred venues to hidden local gems. Explore sky-high restaurants with stunning views or cozy hawker stalls bursting with flavor. Areas like Marina Bay Sands and Dempsey Hill are must-visits for food lovers.

Partnering with Time Out and Grab Dine Out, we’ve curated standout options. Discover trending neighborhoods like Tanjong Pagar, where innovative chefs redefine the dining experience. Let’s dive into Singapore’s vibrant food scene!

Key Takeaways

• Singapore is a top food destination with 300+ new restaurants monthly.
• Options range from hawker centers to luxury fine dining.
• Michelin-starred spots and hidden gems are featured.
• Popular areas include Marina Bay Sands and Dempsey Hill.
• Emerging neighborhoods like Tanjong Pagar offer fresh flavors.

Introduction to Singapore’s Vibrant Dining Scene

Few cities blend tradition and innovation as seamlessly as Singapore when it comes to food. The streets buzz with energy, offering everything from sizzling woks at hawker stalls to elegant tasting menus at Michelin-starred venues. This dynamic mix makes it a true foodie paradise.

Why Singapore is a Foodie Paradise

With over 300 new restaurants opening monthly, the city constantly reinvents its culinary landscape. The UNESCO-listed hawker culture thrives alongside modern gastronomy, creating a wide variety of flavors. Time Out’s verified picks, like the upcoming Zeniya, showcase this exciting evolution.

Key highlights include:

• 60+ top-rated spots for every budget
• Authentic street food alongside luxury concepts
• Michelin Guide favorites, from Bib Gourmand to starred venues

What Makes a Great Dining Experience in Singapore

Exceptional meals here combine quality ingredients with memorable ambiance. Cultural authenticity shines through, whether at a $50-per-person eatery or a $100+ tasting menu destination. The Michelin Guide’s influence ensures high standards across all price points.

For curated recommendations, explore Time Out’s guide to Singapore’s top. From sizzling satay to delicate dim sum, every meal tells a story here.

Fine Dining Experiences in Singapore

Elevating culinary artistry, Singapore’s fine dining scene dazzles with Michelin-starred excellence. These venues blend precision, creativity, and premium ingredients for unforgettable meals. Whether French techniques or Cantonese traditions, each restaurant offers a unique journey.

Odette: A Michelin-Starred Gem

Ranked #1 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023, Odette redefines luxury. Chef Julien Royer crafts seasonal French menus with subtle Japanese influences. Dishes like the Rosemary-Smoked Organic Egg showcase his innovative approach.

Key highlights:

• Six- to eight-course tasting menus featuring truffles and Hokkaido uni.
• Lunch ($298++) vs. dinner ($498++) pricing for flexible indulgence.
• Sommelier-curated wine pairings, including rare Burgundy selections.

Summer Pavilion: Cantonese Cuisine at Its Best

This Michelin-starred venue at The Ritz-Carlton celebrates Cantonese heritage. Signature dishes include:

• Steamed lobster dumplings with gold leaf.
• Braised abalone in rich oyster sauce.

Their $288++ tasting menu balances tradition and modern flair. Pair with premium teas or aged pu-erh for a complete experience.

Newcomer Zeniya impresses with $388 kaiseki dinners. Ingredients flown from Kanazawa, Japan, ensure authenticity. Sake pairings elevate delicate courses like snow crab tofu.

For gourmet seekers, these restaurant Singapore icons deliver artistry on every plate.

Casual Dining Spots for a Relaxed Evening

Unwind with hearty dishes at these standout spots perfect for relaxed evenings. Whether you crave farm-fresh ingredients or nostalgic local flavors, these venues combine quality with laid-back vibes—all under $50 per person.

Open Farm Community: Farm-to-Table Delights

Nestled in Dempsey Hill, Open Farm Community champions sustainability. Their weekend brunch ($35++) features eggs from on-site chickens and herbs plucked from their garden. Dishes like the *kale pesto pasta* highlight seasonal produce.

Vegetarians love the roasted beetroot salad, while meat lovers savor the grass-fed beef burger. The rustic-chic setting, with wooden tables under swaying palms, makes every meal feel like a countryside escape.

The Coconut Club: A Taste of Local Flavors

This Ann Siang Hill gem elevates Malaysia’s national dish with a secret rempah recipe. Their $14++ nasi lemak set includes fragrant rice, crispy anchovies, and a perfectly runny egg. The sambal—spicy yet balanced—steals the show.

For a twist, try Belimbing’s *nasi ulam* ($26++), a Sri Lankan-inspired rice salad with firefly squid. Both spots prove casual dining doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or heritage.

Best Dinner Places in Singapore for Unique Cuisines

Step beyond the usual and explore unique cuisines that set Singapore apart. From Mediterranean mezze to Greek souvlaki, these spots celebrate global flavors with local flair. Whether sharing plates or savoring solo, each venue offers a distinct culinary journey.

Olivia Restaurant & Lounge: Mediterranean Magic

At Olivia Restaurant & Lounge, $98++ sharing platters bring the Mediterranean to your table. Their *mezze spread* includes smoky baba ganoush and crispy falafel, perfect for group dining. Pair with a chilled Assyrtiko wine for a complete experience.

Highlights:

• Hand-rolled dolmades stuffed with spiced rice.
• Vegan-friendly options like roasted cauliflower with tahini.

Bakalaki Greek Taverna: Authentic Greek Fare

Bakalaki Greek Taverna delivers hearty flavors with its $38++ mixed grill. Tender lamb chops and juicy souvlaki dominate the platter, served with tangy tzatziki. Their spanakopita (spinach pie) is a must-try for vegetarians.

Newcomer Latido (opening 2025) will feature Colombian rabbit wraps with plantain chips. For rare Southeast Asian flavors, try Station by Kotuwa’s Kaliya curry—a Sri Lankan specialty with jackfruit.

Michelin Bib Gourmand Picks

Two iconic eateries have dominated Singapore’s Michelin Bib Gourmand list for six consecutive years. These spots prove gourmet experiences don’t require sky-high prices. Expect bold flavors, expert techniques, and queues worth joining.

Kok Sen: Wok Hei Mastery

Their $19++ Big Prawns Hor Fun exemplifies wok hei—the elusive “breath of the wok.” Chefs achieve this by tossing ingredients at extreme heat, creating smoky depth. The dish pairs plump crustaceans with silky rice noodles in a rich prawn broth.

Arrive by 11:30 AM to beat lunch crowds. Solo diners can share tables—it’s part of the experience. Pair with their garlicky kailan for a complete meal under $25.

Hjh Maimunah: Nasi Padang Excellence

This Joo Chiat legend serves 40+ nasi padang dishes daily. The $30++ BBQ seabass stars, glazed with sweet-spicy sambal goreng. Must-tries include:

• Rendang tok: Slow-cooked beef in coconut gravy
• Sayur lodeh: Vegetables in turmeric broth
• Parchment-wrapped tempeh with candlenut paste

Newcomer Zhup Zhup offers competition with $12 laksa, but Maimunah’s heritage recipes remain unmatched. Pro tip: Weekday afternoons offer shorter waits.

For budget-friendly Bib meals, Kok Sen’s $12 claypot tofu rice and Maimunah’s $8 nasi campur deliver serious flavor without straining your wallet.

Marina Bay Sands: A Dining Destination

Perched high above the city, Marina Bay Sands redefines luxury dining with breathtaking views. This architectural marvel houses award-winning venues that blend culinary artistry with panoramic vistas. From 57th-floor sky-high perspectives to intimate omakase counters, every experience feels extraordinary.

CE LA VI: Elevated Indulgence

Their $198++ tasting menu showcases modern Asian flavors with French techniques. Signature dishes include miso-glazed black cod and truffle-laced scallops. The open-air deck offers unmatched views of Singapore’s skyline.

Key details:

• Lunch ($98++) vs dinner pricing for different experiences
• Smart casual dress code (no shorts or flip-flops)
• Private dining room available for groups up to 12

Waku Ghin: Japanese Mastery

Chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s $450++ omakase celebrates Japanese cuisine at its finest. Expect 10 courses featuring seasonal imports like Hokkaido uni and Kagoshima wagyu. The sake pairing ($150++) highlights rare junmai daiginjo selections.

Notable features:

• Only 25 seats for exclusive counter dining
• Interactive preparation with master chefs
• Customized menus for dietary restrictions

“Waku Ghin’s abalone risotto with shaved truffles redefined luxury for me – every bite was perfection.”

Tanjong Pagar: A Hub for Food Lovers

Where heritage shophouses meet cutting-edge cuisine – welcome to Tanjong Pagar. This district thrives as Singapore’s culinary laboratory, where chefs reinvent traditions with bold techniques. Beyond renowned eateries, hidden cocktail bars like Operation Dagger offer inventive pairings.

Burnt Ends: Modern Barbecue

This modern barbecue pioneer uses a custom $250,000 oven combining grill, smoker, and wood-fired elements. Their $98++ tasting menu might feature:

• Smoked quail eggs with caviar
• Marmite-glazed beef ribs (48-hour prep)
• Burnt cheesecake with seasonal fruit

Chef Dave Pynt’s open kitchen lets guests watch the fiery magic unfold. Compared to newcomer Scarpetta’s $20++ pasta, this is elevated comfort food.

Lagnaa: Indian Flavors with a Twist

At Lagnaa, dishes follow Ayurvedic principles balancing sweet, sour, and pungent notes. Their famous 10-level spice challenge scales from “tourist mild” to “suicidal.” Vegan options like jackfruit curry (level 3 recommended) showcase versatility.

“Level 7 had me reaching for lassi – but the complex layers of flavor kept me coming back.”

From fiery Indian food to smoky meats, Tanjong Pagar delivers unforgettable flavor adventures. Don’t miss 2025 newcomer Scarpetta’s squid ink casarecce – another reason this district stays ahead.

Keong Saik Road: Trendy Eateries

Step into Keong Saik Road, where vibrant murals meet sizzling skillets in Singapore’s trendiest dining corridor. Once lined with opium dens, this street now buzzes with Instagram-worthy venues blending heritage shophouses with global flavors. From Middle Eastern pide bread to tongue-tingling Sichuan peppers, every spot tells a story.

Fat Prince: Middle Eastern Fusion

At Fat Prince, the $38++ slow-roasted lamb shoulder falls apart at the touch, served with smoked eggplant purée. Their pide bread comes in three variations—truffle honey, za’atar, and spicy sujuk—each baked in a stone hearth oven.

Happy hour (5–7 PM) offers $12 cocktails like the Persian Gimlet with saffron gin. Compared to 2025 newcomer Magpie’s Fijian ceviche, Fat Prince’s bold spices anchor the menu in Ottoman traditions.

Birds of a Feather: Sichuan-Inspired Dishes

Birds feather reimagines Sichuan classics with Western techniques. The $22++ mapo tofu layers silken tofu with minced pork and a precise dose of numbing Sichuan peppercorns. Their “Mala” fried chicken wings use a 12-hour chili brine for depth.

“The peppercorns build slowly—first floral, then electric. It’s pain you’ll crave again.”

For those exploring Keong Saik Road, these spots prove innovation thrives where history lingers. Magpie’s upcoming coconut ceviche may challenge norms, but the current stars shine bright.

Dempsey Hill: A Serene Dining Escape

Tucked away from the city bustle, Dempsey Hill offers a lush retreat for food lovers. Former British military barracks now house restaurants surrounded by rain trees and colonial architecture. This enclave balances history with sustainable dining concepts, making it ideal for leisurely meals.

Open Farm Community: Sustainable Dining

At Open Farm Community, the $45++ weekend brunch features eggs from their chicken coop and herbs grown on-site. Their urban farming initiative includes:

• Monthly workshops on composting and edible gardening
• Partnerships with Malaysian organic growers
• Zero-waste kitchen practices (even coffee grounds become fertilizer)

Dishes like pumpkin ricotta toast showcase hyper-local ingredients. Families appreciate the playground, while couples love sunset seating under frangipani trees.

The Halia: Botanical Garden Views

Nestled in Singapore Botanic Gardens, The Halia turns ginger into art. Their $58++ champagne breakfast includes:

• Ginger flower martinis with lychee
• Crab omelets with torch ginger salsa
• Spiced french toast using gingerbread custard

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame botanical garden vistas, especially stunning during orchid blooms. Compared to 2025’s Bon Broth (focusing on collagen hot pots), Halia remains unmatched for garden dining.

“Watching chefs pick basil for my pasta while butterflies flit by—that’s the Dempsey Hill magic.”

Pro Tip: Ride-shares beat parking here—spaces fill by 11 AM. Grab offers 20% off rides to Dempsey Hill weekdays before noon.

East Coast: Seafood and More

Singapore’s East Coast is a seafood lover’s dream. With ocean breezes and bustling eateries, this area serves up fresh catches daily. From fiery chili crab to smoky grilled fish, every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Long Beach Seafood: Famous Black Pepper Crab

At Long Beach Seafood, the $98++ black pepper crab reigns supreme. Unlike chili versions, this dish coats succulent crab in a bold, peppery glaze. The spice builds slowly, letting the sweetness of the meat shine.

Optimal group size: 4–6 people to share two crabs and sides. Their BYO policy allows wine (corkage $25++)—perfect with the salty-sweet flavors.

No Signboard Seafood: A Local Legend

This local legend started as a humble stall in 1981. Their $120++ chili crab balances heat with tomato-based richness. Dip crispy mantou buns into the sauce for the full experience.

Sunset tip: Request tables by the window for golden-hour views. Newcomer Zhup Zhup offers $12 laksa, but No Signboard’s heritage keeps regulars coming back.

“Long Beach’s pepper crab ruined all other crabs for me—that crustacean had layers like an onion!”

2025’s Belimbing will add grilled barramundi to the East Coast scene. But for now, these seafood giants rule the coast.

Club Street: Nightlife and Dining

Neon signs glow brighter as evening falls on Club Street, where dining and nightlife collide. This historic lane becomes pedestrian-only on weekends, letting crowds spill onto the cobblestones. Whether craving juicy steaks or zesty tacos, the energy here makes every meal feel like a celebration.

Picanhas’: Affordable Steakhouse

At this affordable steakhouse, the $31++ “Queen of Steak” lives up to its name—a 300g picanha cut with perfect marbling. Their halal certification (rare for Brazilian churrascarias) expands accessibility. Sides like cassava fries and chimichurri sauce round out the feast.

Weekend tip: Arrive before 7 PM to snag sidewalk tables. Compared to 2025’s Latido, Picanhas’ keeps things classic with:

• Rotating meat cuts served tableside
• $15++ caipirinhas during happy hour (5–8 PM)
• Live samba music Fridays

Super Loco Customs House: Mexican Street Food

Super Loco turns up the heat with $18++ tacos al pastor, stacked with pineapple-marinated pork. Their margarita flights ($38++) feature four mini cocktails—from smoky mezcal to hibiscus-infused. The vibrant decor mirrors Mexico City’s mercado culture.

“The ancho chili duck taco with hoisin glaze? Absolute madness in the best way.”

Late-night seekers thrive here—kitchens serve until 1 AM Fridays. While Latido will introduce Colombian wines, today’s Club Street champions bold flavors and electric vibes.

Dim Sum Delights in Singapore

Delicate folds and precise pleats define Singapore’s vibrant dim sum culture. These bite-sized Cantonese treasures turn meals into interactive experiences. Whether steamed, fried, or baked, each piece showcases culinary artistry.

Din Tai Fung: World-Famous Dumplings

Their $14.80++ xiao long bao features 18 exact folds to hold rich pork broth. Chefs train for months to master the technique. Vegetarians enjoy truffle mushroom dumplings ($12.80++), equally delicate.

Peak hours (12–2 PM) see 45-minute waits—arrive early or use their app. The tea pairing menu suggests floral tieguanyin to cut through richness. Compared to 2025’s Abundance fried rice concept, Din Tai Fung stays classic.

Yum Cha: Traditional Cantonese Experience

Weekend brunch ($38++) includes unlimited har gow and siu mai. Their tea sommelier pairs pu-erh with fatty char siu bao for balance. Highlights:

• Steamed custard buns with liquid salted egg centers
• Crispy taro puffs shaped like swans
• Weekday set menus from $28++ (best value)

“Yum Cha’s custard buns erupted like golden volcanoes—messy, glorious, and worth every napkin.”

For dim sum purists, these spots deliver authenticity with modern conveniences. Watch chefs at work through glass kitchens for added drama.

Nasi Lemak and Local Favorites

Golden coconut rice paired with fiery sambal defines the soul of local cuisine. These iconic dishes represent Malaysia’s culinary legacy, perfected in Singapore’s multicultural kitchens. Whether wrapped in banana leaves or plated with modern flair, each version tells a delicious story.

The Coconut Club: Award-Winning Nasi Lemak

At Ann Siang Hill, The Coconut Club’s $14++ set elevates nasi lemak to art. Their rempah (spice paste) undergoes 48-hour preparation, blending shallots, chili, and toasted coconut. The result? A sambal that crackles with depth but won’t overwhelm.

Key differentiators:

• Breakfast service (8–11 AM) features runny-yolk eggs
• Dinner adds premium sides like rendang chicken
• Takeaway boxes use compostable palm-leaf containers

“That first bite of ikan bilis—so crisp it shatters—makes me question every other anchovy I’ve eaten.”

Hjh Maimunah: A Nasi Padang Institution

This Joo Chiat legend serves nasi padang with 40+ daily options. Their $10++ sambal goreng (fried chili paste) balances sweetness from gula melaka with torch ginger’s zing. Must-try pairings:

• Rendang tok: Beef slow-cooked in coconut gravy
• Parchment-wrapped tempeh with candlenut paste
• Sayur lodeh turmeric vegetable stew

2025 newcomer Belimbing plans deconstructed nasi lemak with quail eggs. But for now, these spots prove tradition tastes best when made with passion.

Peking Duck: A Must-Try in Singapore

The art of roasting duck reaches new heights in Singapore’s culinary scene. Two standout venues transform this Cantonese classic into edible artistry. Whether preferring traditional techniques or modern twists, each offers unforgettable flavors.

Imperial Treasure Super Peking Duck: Crispy Perfection

Their $108++ whole duck achieves legendary crispy skin through precise oven roasting. Chefs separate the golden crust from meat, serving both with house-made plum sauce and steamed pancakes. The three-course utilization includes:

• First course: Skin wraps with cucumber and scallion
• Second course: Stir-fried meat with vegetables
• Third course: Rich bone broth with tofu

Groups of 4–6 share best—reserve 3 days ahead for weekend slots. Vegetarians enjoy mock duck made from layered yuba (tofu skin).

Mott 32: Modern Cantonese Cuisine

Applewood smoke infuses their $98++ peking duck, aged 42 days for depth. The crispy skin comes with eight condiments, including rare osmanthus honey. Compared to Imperial’s oven, Mott’s wood-fired method adds earthy complexity.

“That first bite—crackling skin giving way to juicy meat, all wrapped in a pillowy pancake—is why I book months in advance.”

2025’s Modu will introduce samgyetang (ginseng chicken) as an alternative. But for now, these Cantonese masters prove why peking duck remains a crown jewel of Singaporean dining.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Singapore’s dining scene embraces plant-powered innovation with flair. From mock meat replicas to Buddha bowls bursting with local produce, meat-free dining has never been more exciting. Whether you follow strict vegan principles or prefer flexible vegetarian choices, these spots deliver flavor without compromise.

Loving Hut: Plant-Based Delights

Their $12++ laksa uses shredded king oyster mushrooms instead of chicken. The broth achieves richness with coconut milk and lemongrass. What sets them apart:

• Gluten-free certification for 90% of menu items
• Protein sources: Pea-based “pork” and soy “fish”
• Weekend dim sum brunch with vegan siew mai

“I swore I was eating prawns—until they told me it was konjac root. Mind-blowing texture!”

Real Food: Healthy and Sustainable

This zero-waste pioneer crafts $18++ grain bowls with organic greens from Malaysian farms. Their sustainable practices include:

• Composting all food scraps
• 15% discount for bringing containers
• Nutrient-dense combos like turmeric quinoa with tempeh

2025’s Bon Broth will introduce collagen-rich vegan soups. But today, these plant-based pioneers prove Singapore’s vegetarian scene rivals its carnivorous counterparts.

Conclusion: Explore the Best Dinner Places in Singapore

Every meal here tells a story—of heritage, innovation, and bold flavors. From Marina Bay’s glittering towers to Keong Saik’s neon-lit alleys, the city serves 60+ cuisines with passion. This is where chili crab shares menus with truffle dumplings.

Venture beyond tourist hubs. Hidden gems like Kok Sen’s wok-fired noodles or Lagnaa’s spice challenges offer authentic dining experiences. Time visits with events like Gastronomic Week for special menus.

Pro tip: Book early for Michelin spots. Walk-ins work at hawker centers—just follow the queues. Whether you crave smoky satay or delicate omakase, Singapore’s table is always set. Ready to explore?