From brunch cafes to stellar restaurants to boutique stores, we let you in on where to eat and what to do at Dempsey Hill.
When you think of Dempsey, brunch comes to mind. But besides amazing cafes and top-notch restaurants in Dempsey Hil, this serene enclave is also home to cool boutiques, a pet hotel, a wellness studio and so much more. So if you’re looking for a little getaway from the hustle and bustle of Orchard or Clarke Quay, Dempsey Hill fits the bill. Here’s what to eat, shop and do amidst the area’s lush greenery!
Dempsey Hill guide: Best restaurants and cafes
1. Restaurant Air
This stunning 40,000 sq ft campus in Dempsey Hill isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a culinary oasis, a cooking club, and a playground for food exploration. Air is designed by the masterminds behind Bali’s Potato Head Club, which explains why it gives off familiar vibes. Oh, and the open kitchen lets you peep at the team preparing your delicacies. What’s on the menu? Plant-based and pescatarian-friendly sharing plates that’ll make you forget about meat. Come hungry, ‘cos the portions are generous.
Restaurant Air, 25B Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670, +65 8228 1528
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11.15am to 3pm; Wednesday to Friday, 5.30pm to 11pm and Saturday to Sunday, 5pm to 11pm
2. Claudine
From the lighting to the plush sage green velvet banquettes, everything within Claudine has been so meticulously picked out that you just have to stop and admire every intricate detail. Wear your Sunday best for the intimate side of French cuisine at this neo-brasserie by Julien Royer. Or elevate your night with Claudine’s dinner menu. Pair oysters and caviar with cocktails by the bar made out of brass and crowned with the chapel’s original glass-stained window.
Claudine, 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541, +65 8031 9935
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 11.45am to 2pm and Saturday to Sunday, 11.30am to 3pm; Monday to Sunday, 6pm to 10pm
3. Candlenut
This Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant hardly needs any introduction. Candlenut takes a contemporary approach to the traditional Straits Chinese cuisine while maintaining authenticity. Headed by Singaporean chef Malcolm Lee, it’s all about Peranakan plates on the menu. Enjoy classics ikan assam pedas (Kuhlbarra barramundi fillet cooked in a spicy tangy gravy), ngoh hiang (deep-fried minced pork roll) and wagyu beef rib rendang. For more innovative creations, go for the Ah-ma-kase menu, which rotates monthly.
Candlenut, 17A Dempsey Road, Singapore 249676, +65 6486-1051
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 3pm; Monday to Sunday and eve of public holidays, 6pm to 10pm
4. Burnt Ends
Mention the best restaurants in Singapore and this Dempsey Hill stalwart will naturally come up. Many epicureans rave about this modern barbecue spot, which serves mouth-watering meats cooked in scorching ovens and grills. There’s no fixed menu here, so be prepared to be surprised once you take a seat. But you can expect beef brisket, pulled pork, and seafood. If you’re uncertain about what to feast on, we say go for the omakase experience. You’ll be in good hands. Oh, don’t forget to complement your meal with the Australian wines on offer.
Burnt Ends, #01-02, 7 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249671, +65 6224 3933
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday, 12pm to 2.30pm; Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm to 11pm
5. Morsels
Morsels is big on small plates and progressive Asian fusion. One thing is for certain: the dishes are far from boring. You’ll find inventive recipes that feature different culinary techniques like fermentation and curing. Go for the omakase experience, which will take you on a flavour voyage from sweet and sour to salty, bitter and umami.
Morsels, #01-04, 25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670, +65 6266 3822
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm; Tuesday to Thursday, 6pm to 10pm and Friday to Saturday, 6pm to 10.30pm
6. Open Farm Community
What’s better than feasting for a good cause? The open-concept eatery is big on the farm-to-table movement. Diners can dig into innovative and hearty European dishes prepared using fresh and sustainable ingredients sourced from their own gardens as well as local and regional farms.
Open Farm Community, 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819, +65 6471 0306
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3.30pm (Saturday to Sunday, 11.30am to 3.30pm); Monday to Sunday, 6pm to 11pm
7. Mr Bucket Chocolaterie
There’s nothing average about this chocolate shop. Everything is made with high-quality, sustainably sourced cocoa beans from all over Asia. This results in decadent, artisanal treats that you won’t wanna share with anyone. The menu boasts signature creations like bean-to-bar tasting sets and cacao husk lemon tea; go through the recommendations if you can’t decide what to get. If you’re feeling creative, go ahead and build your own chocolate slab at the Creation Station.
Mr Bucket Chocolaterie, #01-03/04, 13 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249674
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday, 11am to 7pm; Friday to Saturday and public holidays, 11am to 10pm
8. Canchita Peruvian Cuisine
If you crave the taste of South America, hit up Canchita. This spot dishes out delectable Peruvian and Latin American plates. Surrounded by lush greenery, it sets a relaxing tone for your dining experience with food prepared by great chefs. The space is separated into three dining areas resembling various aspects of the Peruvian landscape. We love to order one of the ceviches to start before moving on to mains featuring a plethora of seafood and meat. Oh, and there’s a meat-free menu for vegetarians, too.
Canchita Peruvian Cuisine, 9 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247698, +65 8028 1994
Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 11.30am to 3pm; Monday to Sunday, 5.30pm to 10.30pm
9. Ippoh Tempura Bar by Ginza Ippoh
You can now find the oldest premium tempura restaurant’s first-ever Southeast Asian outpost at Dempsey Hill. The dining concept captures the same refined, Osaka-style tempura that these specialists are renowned for. Each piece is fried to order alongside delicate seasoning that complements the natural flavours of the ingredients.
Ippoh Tempura Bar by Ginza Ippoh, 17C Dempsey Road, Singapore 249676, +65 6486-1052
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 12pm to 3pm; Monday to Thursday and Sunday, 6pm to 10pm and Friday to Saturday and eve of public holidays, 6pm to 11pm
10. Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar
World-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s touch is seen and felt in every aspect of this sleek and modern eatery. Expect contemporary Asian-inspired European fare created with fresh and locally-sourced produce. Enjoy a cosy but elegant dining experience with crispy salmon sushi, angel hair pasta with shrimp, and a decadent black truffle and fontina cheese pizza. Order a cocktail while you’re there, and don’t be afraid to ask the mixologist for a drink recommendation!
Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar, 17D Dempsey Road, Singapore 249676, + 65 8121 6122
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 12pm to 2.30pm (Saturday to Sunday and public holidays, 11.30am to 3.30pm); Monday to Thursday and Sunday, 6pm to 11.30pm and Friday to Saturday and eve of public holidays, 6pm to 12am
11. Jumbo Seafood
Jumbo Seafood has always been the place to go for Singapore’s iconic chilli crab dish since it opened in 1987 at the still-popular East Coast Seafood Centre. Lucky for us, the brand opened branches all around the island so we can easily get our chilli crab fix. The gravy accompanying the flavoursome crab at Jumbo is slightly more tomato-y than elsewhere and richly layered with egg. Still a classic! Also fill up on familiar faves like cereal prawns, seafood fried rice and the popular mocha pork ribs.
Jumbo Seafood, #01-16, 11 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249673, +65 6479 3435
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11.30am to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 9.30pm
12. Samy’s Curry
Samy’s Curry, an age-old Indian curry house, doesn’t rely on its ambience and decor for business. Think ceiling fans, boisterous open surroundings (a mess hall and a verandah) and shuttered windows. So why is it perpetually crowded? It’s the food, of course! Our go-to combo is a mountain of biryani rice drenched in the resto’s famous fish head curry with tasty morsels of chicken masala and fish cutlet on the side. Since the place isn’t fully air-conditioned, your best bet to cooling off is a mug of lime juice.
Samy’s Curry, 25 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249670, +65 6472 2080
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, 11am to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm
13. Siri House
Brunch can be easy and fun, but it also can also be chi-chi. Enter Siri House. With its refined offerings and alfresco terrace, brunch at this dining space is unforgettable. Gather your friends for a bonding experience over delectable dishes or dinner and drinks. From the small plates section, go for the burrata and bikini sandwich. Then work your way through the selection of large plates with choices like unagi risotto and steak and eggs. Noms!
Siri House, #01-02, 8D Dempsey Road, Singapore 249672, +65 9487 1552
Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday, 11.30am to 10pm; Friday to Saturday, 11.30am to 11.30pm
14. The Dempsey Project
The Dempsey Project is your one-stop store where you can brunch and grocery shop in one place. First, fill up on delish brunch delights like bacon and egg wrap, avo toast, eggs benedict and French toast. Next, stock up on fresh bakes, pantry staples, gourmet cheeses and wines. This place hardly disappoints.
The Dempsey Project, #01-12, 9 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247697, +65 6475 2005
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 9pm; Friday to Saturday, 8am to 10.30pm
15. Atout
French plates take centre stage at Atout. The informal bistro fare and affordable wine are the stuff of dreams. It’s a space for a simple snack or a full-blown meal with loved ones. We’re talking an array of cheeses and charcuterie, plus dishes like roasted angus tenderloin and a selection of homemade sausages cooked to order — bon appetit! Plus, the alfresco area makes for a romantic date, especially at night when the skies are studded with stars.
Atout, 40C Harding Road, Singapore 249548, +65 87994567
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday and eve of public holidays, 12pm to 11pm
16. PS.Cafe
Weekends are synonymous with PS.Cafe, especially if truffle fries are involved. The picture-perfect Dempsey Hill restaurant looks out onto a manicured lawn and boasts a stylish interior that makes us want to dress up for brunch. Do breakfast right with cinnamon and blueberry pancakes. Or go all out with the namesake big breakfast, which comes with eggs done to your preference, smoked bacon, spinach, toast, baked beans, tomatoes, mesclun with honey truffle dressing, and a choice of pork or angus sausage. It’s also a perfect date night spot for steak and bubbly.
PS.Cafe, 28B Harding Road, Singapore 249549, +65 6708 9288
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday and public holidays, 8am to 10pm; Friday to Saturday and eve of public holidays, 8am to 10.30pm
17. Huber’s Butchery
Once you’ve spent more than you should’ve to stock up on premium cuts of meat, settle in at the bistro for a belly-busting feast. Vegetarians, you’ve been warned. This is the perfect restaurant in Dempsey for steak, schnitzel and meatloaf. Wash it all down with your choice of poison, from beers and wines to cocktails and spirits.
Huber’s Butchery and Bistro, 22 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249679, +65 6737 1488
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, 11am to 10pm; Saturday to Sunday and public holidays, 9.30am to 10pm
18. RedDot Brewhouse
This is for the beer connoisseurs among us. The young family business is helmed by a father and daughter duo who both share a love for homebrewed beers and are excited to share the experience with everyone. Signatures include a summer ale, Czech pilsner, and a green lager that’s quite literally green, getting its colour from spirulina. Make sure to fill up on its great eats like lamb racks and sausage platter.
RedDot Brewhouse, #01-01, 25A Dempsey Road, Singapore 247691, +65 6475 0500
Opening hours: Monday, 11.30am to 10pm; Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday, 11.30am to 10.30pm; Friday to Saturday, 11.30am to 11pm
19. Chopsuey Cafe
Brought to you by the folks from local favourite haunt PS.Cafe, Chopsuey gets a bit adventurous with Asian cuisine, doing it with a modern twist. The weekend brunch menu includes sweet and sour fish and chips, beef pho, and crab laksa with prawns. Oh, and there’s the big breakfast platter which features pork and lemongrass sausage, crispy bacon, sesame-soy mushrooms, wok-crisped rosti, sweet and sour baked beans, grilled tomato, coriander chilli, almond pesto and eggs done your way.
Chopsuey Cafe, #01-23, 10 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247700, +65 6708 9288
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday and public holidays, 11am to 11pm; Friday to Saturday and eve of public holidays, 11am to 11.30pm
20. Sprmrkt
Decked out with high ceilings, square columns and natural light from large windows, Sprmrkt is an idyllic place to spend a weekend morning in Dempsey Hill. On the menu, you’ll find classics like buttermilk pancakes, French toast and avo toast. In the mood to devour something hearty? Head straight for the breakfast platter to chow down on eggs, mushrooms, sausages, bacon, tomato and toast. Get a little pep in your step with coffees and cold brews – or try juices, slushies and milkshakes. For the health nut, try smoothie bowls packed with superfoods like chia seeds, blueberries and spinach.
Sprmrkt, #01-15A, 8 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247696, +65 8129 8166
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday, 8am to 5pm; Thursday to Sunday and public holidays, 8am to 10pm
21. Da Paolo Dempsey
Fill up on Italian plates at Da Paolo. We’re talking fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas and yes, the classic tiramisu. If you’re here for brunch, get classics like avo toast and eggs benedict. Or go all out with dishes like carbonara, lobster tagliolini and diavola pizza, which is studded with salami. Otherwise, come for dinner and start your evening with a glorious spread of charcuterie and cheese before diving into hearty mains.
Da Paolo Dempsey, #01-13, 8 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247696, +65 6261 3128
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, Sunday and public holidays, 8am to 11.30pm; Friday to Saturday and eve of public holidays, 8am to 12am
22. Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari
This foodie hill has everything, including Tiong Bahru Bakery’s famed croissants. At this branch, expect an uber-cool safari with a tent facade amidst lush greenery. Grab your favourite baked goods like kouign amann and pain au chocolat with a strong cuppa and enjoy an outdoorsy brunch without having to actually sit on dirt or bask in the sun. You can say it’s almost like glamping.
Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari, 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819, +65 6877 4876
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 6pm
23. Margarita’s
If you’re particular about your pico de gallo, Margarita’s offers one of the best chunky salsas in its selection of Mexican staples. We’ve got a soft spot for the margaritas, chicken grande taco salad and enchiladas, too. Swing by the Mexican restaurant in Dempsey Hill with your squad to enjoy the carne asada (grilled ribeye steak). The platter features grilled ribeye steak, tortillas, pico de gallo, salsa roja and black beans for the ultimate DIY taco extravaganza.
Margarita’s, #01-09, 11 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249673, +65 6471 3228
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11.30am to 10.30pm
24. Red Sparrow
Red Sparrow is the answer to your cravings for a home-cooked Vietnamese meal in Singapore. The extensive menu features classic dishes alongside lesser-known gems. That includes pho, dac biet, an assortment of fresh spring rolls, tom nuong (chargrilled tiger prawns), thit kho tau (pork belly braised in coconut and soy sauce glaze) and canh chua (sour soup). All this is wrapped in a cosy setting of oriental lamps and wall murals.
Red Sparrow, #01-18, 11 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249673, +65 6776 6118
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11.45am to 3pm; Sunday to Thursday, 5pm to 10pm and Friday to Saturday, 5pm to 10.30pm
Dempsey Hill guide: Explore and shop
25. Museum of Ice Cream
Game to unleash your inner child? If the answer’s yes, hop on over to this pink paradise. Launched in 2021, the Museum of Ice Cream has enticed many folks with its unlimited ice cream scoops, interactive installations and immersive rooms. One play space pays tribute to an iconic local sweet treat, while the sprinkle pool has brought joy to many kids (and adults, too). Head to the retail area when you’re done to purchase cool and adorable merch.
Museum of Ice Cream, 100 Loewen Road, Singapore 248837
Opening hours: Monday and Wednesday, 10am to 6pm; Thursday to Sunday, 10am to 9pm
26. Redsea Gallery
Creative individuals will be happy to know there’s an art gallery in Dempsey Hill. This reputable establishment has been instrumental in building up Singapore’s art scene by supporting local and internationally renowned artists. Step inside and marvel at the artwork on display, which includes painting, sculpture, print, photography, and video installations.
Redsea Gallery, #01-10, 9 Dempsey Road, Singapore 247697, +65 6732 6711
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am to 9pm
27. Kids21
A fashion and lifestyle brand, but make it for kids. Trust Club21 to ensure luxury fashion is accessible for the whole family. Stocked with carefully selected ranges of clothes and accessories from the world’s top brands, Kids21 is the place to get a statement piece for your little ones. Parents can keep an eye out for the Kids21’s club rebrand. They’re gearing up to open a family-focused club in Dempsey with bespoke experiences and a community space.
Kids21, 16 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249685, +65 6304 1435
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 10am to 7pm
28. Terra Madre
A store and restaurant, Terra Madre boasts the largest collection of natural and organic foods in Singapore. Drop by to get your groceries sorted and then make a pitstop at their restaurant for an Australian-inspired meal which includes vegan-friendly options. If you’re there early enough, get the full Aussie breakfast with your choice of eggs, a corn rosti, kurobuta sausage, and lots of other goodies with white sourdough. Or if you’re feeling cheeky, drop by in the afternoon for two hours of free-flow bubbly, wines, beer, or Aperol spritz.
Terra Madre, #01-02, 71 Loewen Road, Singapore 228847, +65 6250 2052
Opening hours: Sunday and Wednesday, 9am to 5pm; Thursday to Saturday, 9am to 9pm
29. Timothy Oulton @ Curio
With all the lights and mirrors, it’ll feel like you’re stepping into a set from The Great Gatsby – in Dempsey Hill. Looking for a unique piece of furniture to throw into your newly renovated home? This is exactly where you need to be. Get your next statement piece with Timothy Oulton’s unique and eclectic collection of furniture. You can even book a gallery tour or get some room planning done for your home.
Timothy Oulton @ Curio, #01-01, 13 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249674, +65 6479 7619
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 10.30am to 6.30pm; Friday to Sunday, 10.30am to 7.30pm
30. B.P. de Silva Jewellers
A jeweller with over a century of heritage, this business is now being run by the family’s fifth generation. Boasting one of the nation’s most extensive natural gem libraries, you’ll have a huge array of sparkly stones to choose from. Whether it’s an engagement ring or a gift for a special occasion, its immaculate collection gives you options from simple and smooth wedding bands to huge sapphires circled by diamonds.
B.P. de Silva Jewellers, 14C Dempsey Road, Singapore 249687, +65 6473 8880
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm
31. Dover Street Market
Besides brunch and pretty scenery, Dempsey can be edgy too – by way of Dover Street Market, of course. Founded by Comme des Garçons designer Rei Kawakubo and her husband, the multi-label concept store stocks luxury fashion brands, streetwear labels and exclusive collaborations.
Dover Street Market, 18 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249677, +65 3129 4323
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 11am to 8pm
32. Trimmings Salon & Spa
If self-care is on the agenda, treat yourself to a luxurious spa session after brunch. Work out those knots in your body with a relaxing massage, but don’t stop there. Top it off with a body scrub and a relaxing scalp massage. Other facilities include a nail and hair salon, which means a mani-pedi and blowout are in order. Told you we take self-care days seriously!
Trimmings Salon & Spa, 75B Loewen Road, Singapore 248852, +65 85115085
Opening hours: Monday, Friday and Saturday, 9am to 6pm; Tuesday to Thursday, 9am to 8pm
33. Core Collective Dempsey
This isn’t your usual gym. Core Collective is part gym, part co-working space and part wellness centre. The space offers group fitness classes and wellness services, so bump up your BPM with an intense HIIT workout. Here’s where you can also educate yourself with body talk, chiropractic, meditation, and physiotherapy sessions.
Core Collective Dempsey, 27A & 30B/C Loewen Road, Singapore 248839, +65 6974 3228
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 6am to 9pm; Saturday and public holidays, 7am to 4pm; Sunday, 8am to 1pm
34. The Wagington
Strictly for felines and canines, this luxury boutique pet hotel offers four different suites: The Royal, Superior, Junior and Garden. Pups get to enjoy a queen-sized bed with micro-suede bedsheets and quilts, a 32-inch LED TV for entertainment, and complimentary fitness walks and swims. Meanwhile, felines get a premier cat condo with a scratch post, soothing classical music and carpeted floors. Each room is kitted out with a high definition IP camera, so rest assured the hotel staff will keep an eye on your pets at all times. The place also has a spa service, bone pool and daycare for pups.
The Wagington, 27B Loewen Road, Singapore 248850, +65 64711689
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8.30am to 7.30pm
Time to explore the grounds of Dempsey Hill with our handy guide to restaurants, shops and more!
[This article was originally published in 2021 and updated in 2024 by Sufyan Saad.]
