Explore Newton for top restaurants, fine dining and the famous Newton Food Centre.
So you’ve been to Orchard, Novena and Balestier. Ever checked out Newton? The quiet residential area is often overlooked by its counterparts. But it’s far from a snooze fest. Beyond prestigious international schools and swanky condos, the streets of Newton come alive thanks to hotspots like Newton Food Centre (yup, that hawker centre from Crazy Rich Asians) and note-worthy restaurants. Read on for some bonus spots at the end.
Guide to Newton in Singapore: Best food spots and more
1. Ami Patisserie
While Ami Patisserie initially started as an online store in 2021, it soon grew and established a physical space within a colonial bungalow in Newton. Chef Makoto Arami combines Japanese produce with European techniques to create his intricate desserts. And you can enjoy them in a tranquil setting, mimicking the traditional wooden townhouses in Kyoto.
Ami Patisserie, 27 Scotts Road, Singapore 228222
2. So France Cafe
Whether it’s a quick coffee, hearty lunch, or casual dinner, So France Cafe promises plates of authentic French comfort food. Indulge in So France’s version of the croque monsieur, or try a galette available in a variety of flavours. If you’re keen to bring a taste of France back home, spend some time in the retail section. Grab cold cuts, cheese, and even pate and rillettes to create your very own cheeseboard at home.
So France Cafe, 1 Sarkies Road, Singapore 258130
3. Buona Terra
You know the saying ‘the eyes eat first’? This Italian restaurant channels it through every dish. Helmed by chef Denis Lucchi, who handpicks fine ingredients and produce, Buona Terra explores Italian cuisine through reinterpreted classics. The four- and five-course lunch and dinner menus change with seasonality and availability. But for an idea, you’ll try carpaccio, risotto, piccione (aged pigeon) and the like.
Buona Terra, 29 Scotts Road, Singapore 228224
4. Chef Chan’s Private Dine
Need an intimate space to dine for up to eight people? Count on this fine private dining establishment by Michael and chef Wong for exquisite Cantonese cuisine. Expect ingredients like abalone, pork, wagyu beef, and more dished out in a course menu.
Chef Chan’s Private Dine, 35 Scotts Road, Singapore 228227
5. Smiths Authentic Fish and Chips
If you’re a purist when it comes to fish and chips, head here. Unlike the more pedestrian offerings, this eatery prides itself on offering cod and haddock. These two varieties of fish were originally used to make fish and chips in England in the 1800s, and they fall apart into chunkier flakes than the usual dory you’ll find in regular fish and chips.
Smiths Authentic Fish and Chips, #01-02, Balmoral Plaza, 271 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 259708
6. Newton Food Centre
One of the best spots for local hawker food in Singapore, Newton Food Centre gained world recognition for appearing in the American romantic-comedy Crazy Rich Asians. From sambal stingray to satay, seafood (chilli crab!) to traditional dessert, you’ll find a feast here. There’s 88 San Ren Cold and Hot Dessert for refreshing ice kacang and chng teng, Bib Gourmand entree Alliance Seafood and Guan Kee Grilled Seafood for super shiok sambal stingray.
Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Singapore 229495
7. The Malayan Council
The Malayan Council offers some interesting menu items with local twists in a gorgeous setting. That’s right! The Winstedt outlet has a garden-themed space with alfresco seating and an area for weddings and other events. Tuck into hearty pasta like laksa goreng barramundi and smoked duck leak chilli padi linguine, or angus ribeye masak merah and roti kirai beef ribs for mains. Don’t forget to end your meal with the popular ondeh ondeh cake.
The Malayan Council, 10 Winstedt Road, Singapore 227977
8. Thai’D Me Up
Thai’D Me Up brings Thai cuisine with a fun twist to Singapore. The chef takes inspiration from his hometown in Chiang Mai to produce vibrant dishes like grilled pork collar, spring rolls, stuffed chicken wings, tanghoon claypot prawn, crispy sea bass with mango salad and more. Craving steak or Western food? Have them at the sister outlet Meat You Here (loving the puns), located in the same space.
Thai’D Me Up, #01-04, 271 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 259708
9. Iru Den
After a trip to Kyoto where chef Javier Low delved into the art of Kyoto-European cuisine, he brings his wealth of knowledge to Singapore with his concept Iru Den. Taking inspiration from both European and Japanese cuisine, savour dishes with either a degustation or chef’s experience menu.
Iru Den, 27 Scotts Road, Singapore 228222
10. Stay: Sheraton Towers Singapore
This hotel is an urban retreat complete with lush greenery and picture-perfect waterfalls. Great for families and young couples, the hotel has various heritage-themed rooms and noteworthy dining establishments like Li Bai Cantonese Restaurant and The Dining Room.
Sheraton Towers Singapore, 39 Scotts Road, Singapore 228230
11. Arts & Culture: Alliance Française de Singapour
Have an interest in French culture? Alliance Française de Singapour is a cultural hub where you can learn the language, enjoy works of art at the gallery and watch indie and popular French flicks at the theatre. The place is also known to host various events such as Francophonie Festival, French Film Festival and Fashion Artisan Week, so keep an eye out for those.
Alliance Française de Singapour, 1 Sarkies Road, Singapore 258130
The next time you’re at Newton, remember to explore the neighbourhood for top restaurants and eateries in Singapore.
