Take your date to Ember Restaurant and cosy up surrounded by the rustic charm of floral decor.
Hidden behind a wooden door in the Clarke Quay area, Ember Restaurant is an underrated spot serving wood-fired meat and seafood from an open kitchen. The restaurant has been around since 2023, but with a refreshed menu, now is the perfect time to visit. At my dinner experience, I was impressed by the friendly service and the food, which blends modern European techniques with bold flavours. With so many new restaurants in Singapore and revamped menus this year, Ember stands out for its focus on wood-fired cooking and intimate dining. Here’s what to expect.
Ember Restaurant review: Details at a glance
Best for: Date nights with meat lovers, and special occasion celebrations
Must-try items: Signature cold angel hair; taramasalata crab toast; Spanish octopus tentacles; Koji aged Argentinian grain-fed ribeye
How much: Brunch mains from $16; set lunch from $32; dinner mains from $38
Opening hours: Daily 5.30pm to 11pm (and Thursdays to Sundays, 11.30am to 3.30pm)
Address: Ember Restaurant, #01-01, 35 North Canal Road, Singapore 059291
The vibe: Elegant floral wonderland
Step into Ember Restaurant, and you’re greeted by a space that exudes rustic charm, giving it an almost cavernous feeling. It’s like you’ve entered a forested Narnia of sorts, if Narnia were a dark, floral wonderland. Complete with ambient lighting, whimsical flowers and dried greens draped across the ceiling, it pretty much offers itself up on a platter for couples on date nights.
Take a corner table for a little privacy, lounge by the wine area to admire the bottles on display, or grab a seat near the open kitchen for a glimpse of the chefs in action. I sank into a cosy booth by the wall with a view that included a bit of everything, and enjoyed the friendly, attentive service.
Tip: even without much online hype, the restaurant fills up quickly, so reservations are recommended.
The food: Refined and made with finesse
I started strong with the signature cold angel hair ($32), an appetising dish topped with sashimi scallops, ikura, and sweet pops of balsamic vinegar. The taramasalata crab toast with oscietra caviar ($27) is another must-order, thanks to its creamy crab topping and a hint of spice to liven things up.
For mains, you can’t go wrong with the Spanish octopus tentacles ($39), sliced up and topped with nam jin dressing, corn, and tomatoes for a beautiful balance of flavours. But the star of the show is the crowd favourite Koji aged Argentinian grain-fed ribeye ($54 for 240g), a gorgeously charred umami bomb served with grilled asparagus and port wine jus for a lick of sweetness.
If you’ve got stomach space left, the cheesecake with almond crumble ($16) is a creamy delight, or try the muscat grape sorbet ($12) for a light, refreshing end.
The verdict: Come for the vibes, stay for the food
From the warm service to the romantic ambience to the impeccable wood-fired dishes, there are plenty of reasons to add Ember Restaurant to your list of eateries when a special occasion rolls around.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cuisine does Ember Restaurant serve?
Ember Restaurant specialises in refined wood-fired cuisine, focusing on premium meats and seafood cooked over open flames. The menu blends modern European techniques with smoky flavours.
Is Ember Restaurant good for date nights or special occasions?
Yes, Ember Restaurant is an excellent choice for romantic date nights and special celebrations. Its elegant, dimly lit interior, intimate seating, and attentive service create a cosy yet elevated dining experience.
What are the must-try dishes at Ember Restaurant?
Popular must-order dishes include the signature cold angel hair with scallops and ikura, taramasalata crab toast with caviar, and the Koji-aged Argentinian grain-fed ribeye cooked over wood fire.
How much does it cost to dine at Ember Restaurant?
Prices at Ember Restaurant are mid-range to premium. Brunch mains start from $16, set lunches from $32, and dinner mains from around $38, with signature steaks priced higher depending on cut and size.
Where is Ember Restaurant located?
Ember Restaurant is located at 35 North Canal Road, #01-01, Singapore 059291, near the Clarke Quay area. It’s tucked away behind a wooden door, making it a hidden gem for those in the know.
Does Ember Restaurant require reservations?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends.
Is Ember Restaurant suitable for brunch?
Yes, Ember Restaurant serves brunch from Thursday to Sunday (11.30am to 3.30pm) in addition to its daily dinner service from 5.30pm to 11pm, making it a versatile option for daytime and evening dining.
