Singapore’s dining scene offers a rich blend of flavors, and those seeking certified meals will find plenty of options. From French-Mediterranean twists to bold Malay-Western fusions, the variety is impressive.
Whether you prefer upscale spots or cozy cafes, there’s something for every taste. Many eateries near Kampong Glam and Arab Street serve high-quality dishes with fresh ingredients. Strict certification ensures every bite meets premium standards.
Key Takeaways
- Singapore boasts diverse culinary influences in its certified dining scene.
- Options range from fine dining to relaxed, family-friendly spots.
- Popular neighborhoods include Kampong Glam and Arab Street.
- Quality ingredients and strict standards define the experience.
- Both local and international flavors are well-represented.
Introduction: Savor the Best Halal Steak in Singapore
The demand for premium dining experiences with strict certification is reshaping Singapore’s food scene. More eateries now offer MUIS-certified meals, ensuring quality and adherence to guidelines. The Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) oversees this process, which includes rigorous checks on ingredients, preparation, and hygiene.
What makes these spots stand out? Creative chefs blend Western techniques with Asian flavors. Think coffee-rubbed ribs or sambal-infused pasta. These dishes like no other celebrate Singapore’s multicultural roots.
Neighborhoods like Kampong Glam and Bussorah Street are hubs for such culinary innovation. Here, you’ll find everything from sleek bistros to cozy family-run spots. Many are Muslim-owned, while others partner with certified kitchens to broaden options.
Why the growing appeal? Diners today seek both authenticity and novelty. They want meals that respect traditions while pushing boundaries. Whether it’s a tender ribeye or a bold fusion creation, the focus is always on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- MUIS certification ensures compliance with strict standards.
- Fusion concepts merge global techniques with local tastes.
- Areas like Kampong Glam offer diverse dining atmospheres.
- Options include both dedicated and partnered kitchens.
1. The Secret Garden By Zeekri: A French-Mediterranean Delight
Tucked away on Baghdad Street, The Secret Garden By Zeekri brings French-Mediterranean charm to the heart of the city. This restaurant blends delicate flavors with a whimsical floral theme, making every visit memorable.
Signature Dishes
Start with the escargot—tender snails bathed in garlic herb butter, served in a polished brass tray. For mains, try the confit de canard, where duck leg crisps perfectly alongside truffle mash. Seasonal menu items like saffron-infused seafood risotto keep regulars coming back.
Ambiance and Location
Inside, ivy-draped chandeliers and blush peonies create a photo-worthy backdrop. The outdoor patio feels like a hidden garden, ideal for brunch under string lights. Located at 19 Baghdad St, it’s steps from Arab Street’s vibrant scene and the Sultan Mosque.
Weekend brunch features lavender pancakes, while dinner shifts to richer dishes like beef bourguignon. Special occasions? Their prix-fixe dining experience includes curated wine pairings without breaking the bank.
2. Positano Risto: Hearty Italian Classics
At 66 Bussorah Street, Positano Risto serves up authentic Italian comfort food with a warm, inviting vibe. This italian restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas, all crafted with nonna-approved techniques.
Must-Try Pasta and Pizza
The kitchen’s secret? A 48-hour pizza dough fermentation process for that perfect crisp-chewy balance. Try the Margherita—smoky crust, tangy San Marzano sauce, and gooey mozzarella. Pasta lovers rave about the generous portions of creamy carbonara or spicy arrabbiata.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Kids get their own menu with crowd-pleasers like crispy chicken tenders and mini margherita pies. The open kitchen layout lets diners watch chefs toss dough, adding to the family-friendly charm. Plus, it’s just a 5-minute stroll to the Malay Heritage Centre for post-meal exploring.
Save room for their signature tiramisu: layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone, dusted with cocoa. It’s the sweet finale that keeps regulars coming back.
3. Oud Restaurant: Southeast Asian Flavors with a Twist
Nestled along Kandahar Street, Oud Restaurant reimagines Southeast Asian cuisine with bold flavors and firewood grilling. The 48 Kandahar St location blends rustic charm with modern flair, offering a dining experience that’s both adventurous and comforting.
Open Firewood Grilling
The kitchen’s centerpiece is a custom firewood grill, infusing dishes like whole seabass and lamb ribs with smoky depth. Chef Ali’s spice blends—think turmeric-cumin rubs and sambal marinades—add a local twist to classic recipes.
“Firewood grilling isn’t just cooking—it’s storytelling. The flames caramelize spices differently each time, creating unique layers of flavor.”
| Spice Blend | Key Ingredients | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|
| Sambal Merah | Chili, garlic, tamarind | Grilled prawns |
| Turmeric-Cumin | Turmeric, cumin, coriander | Lamb ribs |
| Lemongrass-Ginger | Lemongrass, ginger, lime leaves | Whole seabass |
Dessert Highlights
End your meal with teh tarik crème brûlée or avocado mousse fries—a playful mix of creamy and crispy textures. Portions are generous, perfect for sharing.
The chef’s collaboration with local farmers ensures ingredients are fresh and sustainable. It’s a experience that celebrates community as much as cuisine.
4. The Dim Sum Place: Halal Dim Sum and More
Craving bite-sized delights? The Dim Sum Place at 791 North Bridge Rd brings Hong Kong’s vibrant tea house culture to Singapore. Here, bamboo baskets steam with siew mai and fluffy buns, all prepared under certified guidelines.
Popular Dim Sum Items
Traditional dim sum relies on pork, but this kitchen innovates with chicken and beef fillings. Their xiao long bao wrappers are delicate yet sturdy, holding hot broth without tearing. Must-tries:
- Salted egg custard buns: Sweet, molten centers with a slight savory twist.
- Beef siew mai: Juicy, spiced minced meat topped with roe.
- Vegetable dumplings: Stuffed with mushrooms and water chestnuts for crunch.
Hong Kong-Style Dishes
The carrot cake (radish cake) stands out—crispy edges from fierce wok hei, soft centers studded with dried shrimp. For heartier meals, try the braised beef brisket noodles, fall-apart tender in aromatic broth.
Lunch hours (11:30 AM–2 PM) get busy; arrive early or opt for takeaway. Vegetarian? They swap fillings upon request, ensuring everyone leaves full.
5. The Malayan Council – Bussorah: Malay-Western Fusion
Aromatic sambal meets creamy pasta at this Kampong Glam hotspot. The Malayan Council at 71 Bussorah St masterfully balances fiery local flavors with European techniques. Its cozy setting, just steps from the Sultan Mosque, makes it a favorite for both lunch dates and solo cravings.
Indulgent Sambal Pasta
Their signature dish—sambal pasta—offers customizable heat levels. Choose from:
- Mild: Tomato-based sauce with a hint of chili for beginners
- Medium: Balanced kick from bird’s eye chilies and belacan
- Fiery: For daredevils—three types of chilies with torch ginger
Portions are generous, with al dente spaghetti coated in rich coconut cream. The fusion works because it respects both traditions—Italian texture meets Malay spice layering.
“We don’t just add sambal to pasta. We rebuild the dish from the ground up, ensuring each component complements the other.”
Cozy Kampong Glam Setting
Vintage Peranakan tiles and black-and-white family photos adorn the walls. Afternoon tea (3–5 PM) features:
- Ondeh-ondeh cake—steamed pandan layers with gula melaka drizzle
- Kaya toast paired with lavender-infused teh tarik
Parking is limited—take the MRT to Bugis Station (5-minute walk). Weekends get busy; book ahead for window seats under the rattan lamps.
6. Kucina Italian Restaurant: Italian Comfort Food
At KINEX mall, Kucina Italian Restaurant serves hearty Italian comfort food with a gourmet touch. This italian restaurant blends traditional recipes with premium ingredients, like imported truffles and housemade pasta. A water charge policy (S$1 per person) ensures transparency, while the menu caters to both casual lunches and lavish dinners.
Truffle-Loaded Dishes
Star of the show? The La Barca Funghi E Tartufo—creamy fettuccine drenched in black truffle sauce and wild mushrooms. Truffles are sourced from Umbria, Italy, and grated tableside for freshness. Gluten-free options include a quinoa pasta version, ensuring everyone enjoys the earthy richness.
Local Twists on Classics
Chefs add a local twist with creations like nasi lemak pasta. Coconut-infused spaghetti comes with crispy anchovies, sambal mayo, and a sous vide egg. It’s a playful homage to Malay flavors while keeping Italian techniques intact.
- Lunch: Affordable set dishes (S$15++) attract office crowds.
- Dinner: Indulgent à la carte selections like truffle risotto shine.
- Value: Portions are generous—shared plates stretch your dollar.
Whether you’re craving authenticity or innovation, Kucina delivers a memorable dining experience. Pro tip: Book ahead for weekend dinners—the aroma of truffles draws a loyal crowd.
7. Mutiara Seafood by Jumbo Seafood: Halal Seafood and Steak
Wisma Geylang Serai houses Mutiara Seafood, where bold flavors meet sustainable seafood. This family-friendly spot is famed for its generous portions and certified kitchen, serving everything from wok-tossed prawns to succulent steaks.
Chilli and Black Pepper Crab
Their chilli crab swaps traditional pork-based sauces for a rich, tomato-heavy blend with bird’s eye chilies. Unlike non-certified versions, the sauce clings thicker to the crab, balancing sweetness and heat. Prefer bold spices? The black pepper variant packs crushed peppercorns and caramelized onions for a smoky kick.
| Sauce | Viscosity | Heat Level | Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chilli Crab | Thick, clingy | Medium-high | Mantou buns |
| Black Pepper | Light, oily | High | Garlic fried rice |
“We source crabs from eco-friendly farms in Sri Lanka. Each batch is sized uniformly for even cooking—no stringy meat here.”
Spacious Seating
The restaurant’s layout caters to groups, with round tables for sharing platters. Private rooms host up to 20 guests, ideal for celebrations. During Ramadan, a special iftar menu features cereal prawns and sambal tilapia alongside classic dishes.
Diners praise the efficient service, even during peak hours. Pro tip: Order the salted egg yolk squid—crispy ribbons coated in creamy, umami-rich sauce.
8. The Social Outcast: Quirky Fusion Grill
At 89 East Coast Road, The Social Outcast blends smokehouse techniques with pop culture flair. This restaurant thrives on bold flavors and unconventional plating—think bone marrow served on comic book pages.
Bone Marrow and Lamb Ribs
The 48-hour lamb ribs are a labor of love. Marinated in Moroccan spices, they’re slow-cooked until the meat falls off the bone. Dishes like these showcase the kitchen’s patience and precision.
Bone marrow arrives split lengthwise, topped with crispy shallots and sourdough soldiers. It’s a shareable experience—rich, smoky, and perfect for dipping.
Pop Culture-Inspired Pizzas
The menu nods to movies and memes. Try the “Game of Scones” pizza (spiced lamb with harissa) or “Breaking Bread” (pulled beef and blue cheese). Even the crusts hide surprises—stuffed with cheese or chili jam.
| Craft Beer | Pairing Suggestion | Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IPA | Lamb ribs | Citrus cuts through fat |
| Stout | Bone marrow | Roasty complements smokiness |
| Sour Ale | Spicy pizzas | Tartness balances heat |
Open till 1 AM, it’s a go-to for night owls. Pro tip: Weekends feature live DJs—book a patio seat for grill smoke and beats.
9. Afterwit – Mexican Taqueria: Halal Mexican Flavors
Mexican flavors get a creative twist at Afterwit, where bold spices meet certified ingredients. This lively place near Arab Street packs smoky aromas and vibrant colors into every dish. From slow-braised meats to scorching wings, the menu celebrates fire and flavor.
Coffee-Braised Beef Tacos
The “Cheeky Git” taco stars beef cheek braised for 12 hours in espresso and chipotle. Coffee’s bitterness caramelizes into a rich glaze, balanced by pickled red onions. Tortillas are pressed daily using heirloom corn for authentic texture.
Heat levels adapt to preference—mild (smoky ancho chili) or extra-spicy (ghost pepper salsa). Vegetarian? Swap beef for mushrooms or chicken, all served with house-made crema.
Spicy Scorpion Wings
These wings dunked in scorpion pepper sauce aren’t for the faint-hearted. A honey-lime drizzle tempers the sting, while blue cheese foam adds creaminess. Each order comes with cucumber sticks to cool the palate.
- Weekday lunch specials: Two tacos + horchata for S$12 (11 AM–3 PM).
- Family-style platters: Feed four with nachos, wings, and tres leches cake.
“Our tortillas are the soul of the meal—stone-ground, never frozen. That’s why regulars taste the difference.”
10. KULON: Indonesian Comfort Food
At 30 Bali Lane, KULON brings authentic Javanese flavors to Singapore’s vibrant food scene. This Muslim-owned restaurant specializes in hearty dishes like bakmi komplit—a noodle bowl topped with sweet soy-braised eggs and crispy kulit pangsit (wonton skins).
Bakmi Sambal Merah
Their signature bakmi sambal merah showcases the local twist on Indonesian noodles. Unlike Singapore’s eggy, thick variants, KULON uses mie kuning (yellow noodles) for a springy bite. The sambal—a fiery blend of chilies, garlic, and tamarind—clings to each strand, balancing heat with subtle sweetness.
Quick Lunch Spot
Need a speedy meal? Portions here are generous, like the Mie Bakso (S$6.20), served piping hot in under 10 minutes. Takeaway packaging is sturdy, perfect for office lunches. According to local reviews, regulars rave about the Bakmi Komplit (S$13.80), a steal for its size.
- Texture contrast: Singaporean noodles chewier; Indonesian versions lighter.
- Sambal depth: Layers of spice without overpowering the dish.
- Efficiency: Crowds flock at noon, but lines move fast.
11. The White Label: French-Malayan Fusion
French precision collides with Malay spice at The White Label, a fusion hotspot on Jln Sultan. This restaurant elevates classic dishes with techniques like sous vide and firewood grilling, all while honoring Southeast Asian heat.
Wagyu Ribeye Entrecôte
The star is the Wagyu ribeye, graded MS 5+ for rich marbling. Chef Jean coats it in curry romesco—a Spanish-Malay hybrid of roasted peppers, almonds, and rempah. Served with charred brussels sprouts, it’s a masterclass in balance.
Special Occasion Vibes
Private dining experience? Book the “Chef’s Table” package (S$120++/pax). It includes:
- 5-course menu with wine pairings
- Behind-the-scenes kitchen tour
- Customized spice blends to take home
Dress smart-casual—think collared shirts and tailored dresses. Weekends feature live jazz, perfect for anniversaries.
12. The Great Mischief: Catalan-Inspired Brunch
Step into a Wes Anderson-esque world where Catalan flavors meet artistic flair at The Great Mischief. This restaurant inside the National Gallery transforms brunch into a multisensory dining experience, pairing geometric tile floors with saffron-scented air.
Seafood Paella
Their signature paella uses bomba rice from Valencia, cooked in a custom steel pan for optimal socarrat (crispy bottom). The 22-minute cook time ensures each grain absorbs smoked paprika and shellfish broth. Toppings change daily but always include:
- Fresh mussels steamed with white wine
- Chorizo seared with fennel pollen
- Saffron aioli for creamy contrast
“We treat paella like canvas art—the rice is our base, and seasonal seafood provides the color.”
National Gallery Location
Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the gallery’s sculpture garden, creating perfect lighting for food photos. Pro tip: Book window seats before 11 AM when sunlight angles through the stained glass.
The menu includes inventive non-alcoholic pairings like sparkling apple wine with rosemary. Members enjoy:
- Early access to exhibition-themed tasting menus
- Complimentary art tour add-ons
- Priority seating during gallery events
This place redefines brunch culture—where every dishes tells a story and the ambiance feels like edible modern art.
13. Tipo Pasta Bar — Aliwal: DIY Pasta Experience
Pasta lovers rejoice—Tipo Pasta Bar turns dough into edible art with its daily handmade creations. This italian restaurant at 28 Aliwal St lets you customize every bite, from noodle shape to sauce. Organic semolina flour and free-range eggs ensure each strand has the perfect springy texture.
Handcrafted Pasta Options
Chefs roll out fresh batches of pasta each morning. Options like pappardelle, tagliatelle, and fusilli are crafted to hold sauces beautifully. The royal ragu—a crowd favorite—features slow-braised beef, garlic chips, and a rich tomato base.
For lighter dishes, try the presto pesto. Its creamy blend of basil, pine nuts, and smoked salmon won’t overpower the noodles. Every plate is cooked *al dente*, with just the right chewiness.
| Pasta Type | Recommended Sauce | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Pappardelle | Royal ragu | Broad, sturdy |
| Fusilli | Pesto cream | Spiral, sauce-trapping |
| Tagliatelle | Truffle butter | Ribbon-like, delicate |
Cozy and Instagrammable
This place blends comfort with aesthetics. Pink and turquoise walls create a vibrant backdrop for food photos. Comfy banquettes and hanging plants make it ideal for date nights.
Check the menu for seasonal specials, like squid-ink spaghetti with chili crab sauce. Want to recreate the magic at home? Ask about their weekend pasta-making workshops.
“We treat pasta like jewelry—each shape is designed to showcase the sauce.”
Pro tip: Arrive before 7 PM to snag a seat near the Instagram-famous mural. The lighting is golden-hour perfect.
14. Halia at Botanic Gardens: Scenic Dining
Amidst the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens, Halia offers a dining experience like no other. Nestled in the Ginger Garden, this restaurant blends fresh flavors with panoramic views of rare tropical plants. The open-air design lets natural light dance across tables during the day, while fairy lights create magic after sunset.
Chilli Crab Spaghettini
The signature dish reinvents a local favorite with Italian finesse. Chefs reduce the sauce for 45 minutes, concentrating flavors of tomato, chili, and crab essence. Instead of mud crab, they use Fremantle octopus for a tender bite that clings to al dente pasta.
Garden herbs play a starring role. Lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves from their greenhouse cut through the richness. A final dusting of crispy ikan bilis (anchovies) adds umami crunch.
Lush Garden Setting
Daytime visits showcase the Ginger Garden’s vibrant heliconias and torch gingers. The brunch menu features quirky items like pandan pancakes with coconut syrup. As dusk falls, the space transforms with candlelit tables and a curated cocktail list.
| Feature | Daytime | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting | Natural sunlight | Romantic candlelight |
| Menu Focus | Brunch classics | Seasonal tasting menus |
| Best For | Family gatherings | Date nights |
Special occasions? Their proposal package includes:
- Private gazebo with floral arrangements
- Champagne toast with edible gold leaf
- Professional photography service
Parking is available at the Tanglin Gate car park (5-minute walk). For larger groups, valet service can be arranged during dinner hours. Whether it’s a leisurely lunch or celebratory dinner, Halia turns meals into lasting memories.
15. Cappadocia Turkish & Mediterranean Restaurant: Turkish Delights
Bussorah Street transports diners to Anatolia with Cappadocia’s sizzling grills and aromatic spices. At 69 Bussorah St, this restaurant masters middle eastern hospitality through shareable platters and copper cezve coffee brewers. Each dish reflects generations of Turkish culinary tradition, from slow-marinated meats to syrup-soaked desserts.
Kebabs and Mezes
The kitchen ages lamb cuts for 72 hours with pomegranate molasses, ensuring tenderness. Skewers hit the charcoal grill at 400°F, creating a smoky crust. Pair them with the generous portions of meze:
- Haydari: Strained yogurt with mint and garlic
- Acili ezme: Spicy tomato-pepper relish
- Smoky eggplant dip topped with pomegranate seeds
Turkish coffee arrives in ornate cups with a side of lokum (Turkish delight). The ritual involves three pours—symbolizing past, present, and future.
Generous Portions
Mixed grill platters easily feed three, outperforming typical Mediterranean dishes by 30% in volume. Groups of 6+ get 15% off with advance bookings. Compared to nearby places, their baklava uses 40% more pistachios between paper-thin phyllo layers.
| Item | Standard Portion | Cappadocia Portion |
|---|---|---|
| Adana Kebab | 200g | 280g |
| Meze Platter | 8 items | 12 items |
| Baklava | 2 pieces | 4 pieces |
“We measure generosity by how many strangers become friends over our platters.”
Conclusion: Your Guide to the Best Halal Steak in Singapore
From smoky grills to delicate pastas, Singapore’s certified dining scene offers endless flavors. Whether you’re planning a gourmet tour or a casual outing, these restaurants singapore cater to every craving and budget.
For a memorable dining experience, start with a French-Mediterranean lunch, then savor firewood-grilled ribs at dinner. Emerging trends like coffee-rubbed meats and artisanal pastas showcase the city’s culinary creativity.
Always double-check the latest certifications before visiting. Share your discoveries—hidden spots with options like truffle-infused noodles or sambal pasta deserve the spotlight!
