What’s there to eat at City Hall? We’ve got you covered with the top restaurants and cafes for every appetite – and wallet.
The City Hall district offers a delightful mix of experiences for locals and tourists alike. Beyond its historical significance, the area has transformed into a lively hub with something for everyone. You can explore a world-class museum, enjoy performances at a stunning arts centre, shop till you drop at modern malls, or relax in luxurious hotels. But what really sets the neighbourhood apart is its diverse culinary scene. Here’s a guide to City Hall’s cafes and restaurants, offering food options that cater to all budgets and taste buds.
City Hall food guide: Top eateries that won’t break the bank
1. King Umar Teh Tarik Cafe
If you’re trying to tighten your purse strings, The Adelphi will be your new haunt. This nondescript shopping mall in City Hall has plenty of affordable food options to take note of, including this Indian Muslim eatery. You can get your fill of roti prata, biryani, or mee goreng, plus a cup of piping hot coffee or tea for under $10. Psst: if you happen to be here around 3pm, be sure to get your hands on the banana fritters. They only cost 50 cents and are a hit among nearby office folks. Good for an afternoon pick-me-up!
King Umar Teh Tarik Cafe, #01-08, The Adelphi, 1 Coleman Street, Singapore 179803
2. Cafe Ponggol Nasi Lemak
Everyone knows this iconic local brand, which has been dishing out nasi lemak since 1979. Its outlet in Capitol Singapore really amps up the nostalgia, thanks to the tiled floor and walls, wooden stools, and vintage grills separating the counter from the seating area. The dining space is small, so if you’re coming with a group for lunch, we recommend heading over by 11am. There are five set meals to choose from, featuring an egg, anchovies (with peanuts), and proteins like fish, chicken, and mackerel otah. Not too hungry? The chicken curry with toast is our top pick.
Cafe Ponggol Nasi Lemak, #B1-36/36A, Capitol Singapore, 13 Stamford Road, Singapore 178905
3. Sukiya
This gyudon chain restaurant took Singapore by storm in 2021 and now has 20 outlets across the island, including Funan. Diners can enjoy Japanese rice bowls and other a la carte dishes without service charge. Yes, no extra 10% on your bill! Portion sizes go from small to extra large to suit your appetite level. Of course, you must take note of the cost if you’re on a strict budget. Our recommendation? The gyudon and yakitori combination bowl, which features beef slices and skewered chicken. Those who are skipping rice can opt for the low-carb options.
Sukiya, #B1-32, Funan, 107 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179105
4. Shiok Burger
Thinking of what to eat is like participating in a televised quiz show. Chicken or beef burgers? Shoestring fries or tater tots? If you just want a fuss-free lunch or dinner option, consider this casual, Muslim-friendly eatery. These folks did the unthinkable by putting mala in a cheeseburger, and we have to say, they’re a perfect match! You can get it a la carte or top up $3.20 for a set with a small drink and a side. McDonald’s, who?
Shiok Burger, #B1-79, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
City Hall food guide: Chill out at chic cafes
5. Dough
Chijmes is an iconic historical site that houses several food establishments, including this hidden gem. We say ‘hidden’ because Dough is covered by lush greenery. But once you’ve spotted and entered the cafe, you won’t want to leave the premises. We love its minimalist aesthetic, which is inspired by overseas bakeries. The alfresco seating is filled with cushions – a good spot to people-watch, read, or get some work done (if you have to). Feeling peckish? Sink your teeth into sweet treats like the strawberry brioche, passion fruit black tea cake, or matcha mochi. Wash everything down with a cuppa or two.
Dough, #01-30, Chijmes, 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996
6. Surrey Hills Grocer Raffles City
Raffles City’s newest wing is home to this Australian boutique grocer and cafe. Walk past the lush foliage at the entrance and head for a table next to the floor-to-ceiling window, which offers a view of the ever-bustling Stamford Road. This branch features the brand’s first open kitchen and a menu curated by chef Pang Kok Keong of the now-defunct Antoinette. Taste the outlet-exclusive dishes, such as wagyu rump steak with fries and chicken parmigiana. Save some stomach space for desserts – the double-fried donut French is absolutely divine. Stock up on Aussie groceries and sweet treats before making your merry way.
Surrey Hills Grocer Raffles City, #03-42, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
7. PS.Cafe Raffles City
It’s not that hard to find cafes in the City Hall district. But if you can’t decide where to go, PS.Cafe’s outlet at Raffles City is a safe choice. We love that the double-storey glasshouse is smack in the middle of the mall, which means you don’t have to contend with the heat and humidity to find the place. You’ll feel like you’re immediately transported to a European cafe once you step inside. Be sure to get the truffle fries, which is a staple on the menu. The buttermilk fried chicken, which comes with jalapeno aioli and barbecue sauce, is exclusively available here.
PS.Cafe Raffles City, #03-37, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
8. Cafe Kitsune
Looking for a gorge space to hang out with your buddies and catch up on the latest goss? We know just the place. Cafe Kitsune ranks high on our list of cool cafes in Singapore. We have to notch that up to its French-Japanese influences and the fox motif, which can be spotted all over the decor, packaging, and even accessories. You can beat the heat by grabbing a table indoors, but if the weather’s just nice, we recommend sitting in the alfresco area. The menu boasts sandos, cakes, pastries, and coffee made from beans that are roasted in Japan.
Cafe Kitsune, #01-11, Capitol Singapore, 13 Stamford Road, Singapore 178905
City Hall food guide: Indulge in affordable communal dining
9. The Great Mischief
The great minds who brought us Tipo and Working Title have (unsurprisingly) done it again. This time, it’s a Spanish restaurant within the National Gallery. The pastel hues, terrazzo tiles, and fancy lighting are the first things that’ll draw you in. You’ll feel like a character in a Wes Anderson flick! Flip through the menu and nosh on offerings inspired by Catalan cuisine. The afternoon tea set features savoury treats, cakes, scones, and desserts; you can top up for a single portion of the paella. If you want recommendations, check out the ‘gallery favourites’ list.
The Great Mischief, #01-17, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
10. The Masses
Who knew French and Asian flavours go well together? The Masses did, of course. After seven wonderful years at Beach Road, this mod-Sin restaurant moved to the City Hall district and is ready to feed diners with its array of fusion food. The menu changes every four months; guests can expect innovative takes on familiar hawker cuisine whenever they pop by. Trying to impress a prospective client? Bring them here and feast on the set lunch. If it’s too early for dinner, swing by the bar and have a tipple before your meal.
The Masses, #01-84, Capitol Singapore, 15 Stamford Road, Singapore 178905
11. Tipsy Flamingo
Psst: we’ve found an inviting place where you can chill with your colleagues (if you’re friendly with them, that is) after office hours. Forget all your troubles and work worries by downing refreshing, artisanal cocktails at this brightly coloured joint. If you’re in a group of four, live it up by ordering the cocktail tower. Obviously, we don’t recommend drinking on an empty stomach, so fill up your belly tank with tapas, wok-fried beef cubes, and carrot cake. The best part? It opens till 1am from Mondays to Saturdays.
Tipsy Flamingo, #01-17A, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
12. Analogue Initiative
Sustainability is the name of this bar’s game, setting it apart from the other watering holes in Singapore. We’re talking about a main bar top that’s 3D-printed from recycled plastic bottles, funky recycled coasters, and vittles made of ingredients that have less environmental impact. Imbibers can opt for the classics or sip on cocktails with fascinating names. “eXpensive $h*t”, anyone? (That’s faux champagne, kombu caviar, seaweed truffle, peaches and cream, and gin.) The plant-based food menu is equally innovative: ‘tuna’ melts toastie, nori fries with curry crack sauce, and jackfruit tacos.
Analogue Initiative, #01-31, Chijmes, 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996
City Hall food guide: Live it up at fine dining restaurants
13. Brasserie Astoria
If you’re orchestrating a fancy meal with your significant other, there’s one restaurant in City Hall you should consider. Brasserie Astoria is all about a sophisticated dining experience with excellent table service. Look forward to an extensive a la carte menu that offers unique takes on classical brasserie fare and a killer cocktail list that marries Nordic vibes and Asian influences. Penny pinchers should drop by during its Golden Hour (Fridays and Saturdays, 3pm to 6pm) – selected food and beverages will only set you back $12!
Brasserie Astoria, #01-01, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, 11 Empress Place, Singapore 179558
14. Odette
Are you on a mission to try all the Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore? This is the first place on your bucket list. Chef-owner Julien Royer’s dreamy fine dining establishment is renowned for its modern French cuisine made of seasonal ingredients and high-quality produce. Expect well-thought-out tasting menus filled with refined dishes. The touch of class is further highlighted in the gorgeous dining room with floating installations and a glass-enclosed kitchen that lets diners peep the team at work.
Odette, #01-04, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
15. Art di Daniele Sperindio
Here’s another Michelin-starred resident in the National Gallery. Art di Daniele Sperindio is a contemporary Italian restaurant located on the museum’s rooftop terrace. Diners can tuck into episodic menus that showcase chef-owner Daniele Sperindio’s creativity and innovation. Befitting the restaurant’s name, expect to feast your eyes on artsy culinary creations before biting into them. The panoramic Marina Bay view lends a spectacular touch to the entire dining experience. When you’re done, pop over to Bar Eduardo for a drink or two.
Art di Daniele Sperindio, #06-02, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrews Road, Singapore 178957
16. Whitegrass
This one’s for our green fairies and sustainability superheroes. If you’re curious about refined dishes that respect nature and the environment, reserve a spot at Whitegrass. Guided by head chef Takuya Yamashita, the restaurant crafts exceptional offerings that honour seasonality while blending culinary tradition with creativity. Diners can choose between the gustation and gastronomic menus and pair them with the sommelier’s experience.
Whitegrass, #01-26/27, Chijmes, 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996
Good luck picking a food place to dine in City Hall!
