We’ve got the scoop on the most scrumptious food spots in Tanjong Pagar!
When lunchtime rolls around in the CBD, the sheer number of food options at Tanjong Pagar can leave you spoilt for choice. Not sure what to eat? We’ve combed through it to uncover the best restaurants, bars, and cafes for meals that go beyond a quick midday fix. Trust us, we know the best spots ‘cos we work in the area! Oh, and if you’re up for a little exploration, nearby hotspots like Telok Ayer, Ann Siang Hill, Keong Saik, and Duxton Hill are well worth a visit.
We’ve narrowed down the top three must-visit spots for you:
Fried chicken but make it (kinda) healthy: Best Employee Fried Chicken
Singapore’s best bar: Jigger & Pony
Fuss-free Mexican fare: Papi’s Tacos
1. Abseil
Thanks to the blacked-out windows, you might walk by this spot without noticing it. But any eagle-eyed cafe hopper can spot the white letters marking Abseil’s door. Plus, the more hidden the spot, the more curious we become. The space is small and quiet, ideal for anyone looking for a reprieve from the city. While the coffee is on the pricier side, I’d say it’s worth a try. The Abseil coffee features a thick layer of sweet cream, which counteracts the acidity of the black coffee, giving you a refreshing and indulgent sip.
Must-tries: Abseil coffee, Black Jam
How much: Drinks start from $5.50
Opening hours: Wednesday – Monday, 10.01am – 4.29pm; closed on Tuesdays
Address: Abseil, #01-14, Eon Shenton, 70 Shenton Way, Singapore 079118
2. Beigelhaus
Helmed by the ex-head chef of Lolla and Nox, Beigelhaus gives the vibe of a (dare we say) New York hole-in-the-wall bagelry. It’s a tiny spot located along Robinson Road, and we love how it’s unabashed with its use of quirky and punny bagel names. It’s an easy grab-and-go option if you’re working nearby, but there are also seats available inside and outside. The bagels are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside for that perfect bite. Our warning: be ready to get your hands dirty because it’s stuffed to the brim with fillings.
Must-tries: Lox Luther, Wagyu Smith, Duck Vader
How much: Bagel sandwiches start from $8.90
Opening hours: Monday, 8.30am – 4pm; Tuesday – Friday, 8.30am – 6pm; Saturday, 10am – 7pm
Address: Beigelhaus, #01-02, Robinson Square, 144 Robinson Road, Singapore 068908
3. Kora Bakehouse
Even as frequent visitors to International Plaza, we almost missed this cafe. A hidden gem of a find, Kora Bakehouse’s door is situated along the outside stretch of the mall on Choon Guan Street. It’s a small space serving coffee and a variety of matcha drinks, as well as sweet and savoury bakes. Pick from hatsu, tougawa, and todou matcha served straight or as a latte. We recommend it for those wanting a mid-day break!
Must-tries: Strawberry matcha, Earl Grey matcha, lemon pistachio teacake
How much: Coffee starts from $3.50, matcha starts from $6.90
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 6pm; Saturday, 10am – 4pm
Address: Kora Bakehouse, #01-03, International Plaza, 10 Anson Road, Singapore 079903
4. Best Employee Fried Chicken
If you need variety from regular protein bowls in the CBD, we recommend the newly opened Best Employee Fried Chicken. Pick from fried thigh, breast, or chicken poppers to go with a variety of sides. The best part? You can go for high protein sides like boiled eggs and chickpeas to keep it low carb while still hitting your protein intake! The chicken is flavourful and generously portioned, and we love how the well-seasoned side dishes left us more than satisfied. There’s not much seating space though, so be prepared to grab and go.
Must-tries: Fried chicken thigh, pickled cucumbers, fried tofu
How much: Sets start from $12, chicken starts from $7.50
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday, 11am – 7pm; Friday – Saturday, 10am – 8pm
Address: Best Employee Fried Chicken, #01-01, Icon Village, 16 Enggor Street, Singapore 079717
5. Baristart Coffee
Straight from Hokkaido, this cosy coffee joint is all about rich, creamy concoctions made with its signature Biei Jersey milk from Brown Jersey cows – a true highlight of this cafe. Savour the velvety goodness in a latte, cafe mocha or even a babycino. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the bear-shaped shaved ice or indulgent cream puffs. (We seriously can’t get enough of those cream puffs!) For something more substantial, pair your drink with a tonkatsu sando or a comforting plate of Hokkaido carbonara.
Must-tries: Cream puffs, soft serve ice cream
How much: Cream puffs start from $7, scoops of soft cream start from $7
Opening hours: Daily, 9am – 10pm
Address: Baristart Coffee, 65 Tras Street, Singapore 079004
6. Whole Earth
Going vegan or vegetarian? Whole Earth is the place to be for a feast of meat-free dishes in Tanjong Pagar. Specialising in Peranakan-Thai plant-based cuisine, this spot skips the mock meat and MSG while serving bold, authentic flavours. Our top tip? Gather a few friends and tuck into plates of Nonya curry, golden fluffy tofu and crispy beancurd rolls. It’s so good, you honestly won’t miss the meat.
Must-tries: Rendang, olive fried rice
How much: Dishes start from $18
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am – 3pm & 5.30pm – 10pm
Address: Whole Earth, 76 Peck Seah Street, Singapore 079331
7. The Prince
Craving Arabic cuisine? Head to The Prince for sharing plates, mezze platters and more. From beef to whole Mediterranean seabass, every dish is a treat. We recommend coming as a group (we did and loved it!) because you can go wild ordering and nibble on a little bit of everything for maximum variety. Can’t decide what to get? Leave it to the chefs to pick six courses for you in an “omakase” dining style.
Must-tries: Fried cauliflower, octopus, beef cheek stew kebab
How much: Lunch sets start from $29, mains start from $45
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 12pm – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 11pm; Saturday – Sunday, 12pm – 3pm & 5.30pm – 11pm
Address: The Prince, 48 Peck Seah Street, Singapore 079317
8. Otto Ristorante
Tucked inside Maxwell Chambers, this Italian gem strikes the perfect balance – sophisticated enough for a business lunch, yet relaxed enough for a family meal or a laid-back date night. We love the menu, which stays true to classic Italian flavours, offering hearty favourites that never go out of style. Begin with antipasti like creamy burrata or indulgent foie gras, then dive into plates of pasta doused in rich, flavourful sauces. Delish!
Must-tries: Tagliatelle with wagyu and foie gras ragout, burrata with tomato and parma ham
How much: Pastas start from $36, mains start from $48
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 12pm – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 10.30pm; Saturday, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Address: Otto Ristorante, #01-02/03, Maxwell Chambers, 32 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069115
9. Teppei
Take a bite of the Japanese restaurant’s unique omakase feast, and you’ll understand why everyone’s clamouring to get a piece of the action. The 22-seater’s waiting list has been known to drag on for months, which means you’ll want to book a table in advance. The omakase menu changes all the time, so be prepared to enjoy a pleasant surprise!
Must-tries: Miyazaki beef, negitoro roll, unagi don
How much: Rice bowls start from $15.10
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 11.45am – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 10pm; Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 10pm
Address: Teppei, #01-18, Orchid Hotel, 1 Tras Link, Singapore 078867
10. Kko Kko Na Ra
Kko Kko Na Ra dishes out a stellar take on KFC – and no, we’re not talking about the Colonel’s bucket, but crispy, flavour-packed Korean fried chicken. With a variety of flavours to choose from, there’s something to satisfy every craving. We’re big fans of the original crispy chicken and garlic soy, just saying. Round out your meal with classic Korean favourites like seafood pancake, kimchi stew, and jap chae (glass noodles).
Must-tries: Soy garlic fried chicken, kimchi pancake, army stew
How much: Fried chicken baskets start from $25
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm – 1am
Address: Kko Kko Na Ra, #02-01, 33 Tras Street, Singapore 078973
11. O.bba Jjajang
For a taste of Korean food – particularly jjajangmyeon (noodles in a thick black bean sauce) – swing by this popular Tanjong Pagar haunt. Complement your bowl with servings of sweet and sour pork or cheese kimchi pancake for a hearty meal. We’ll always visit for the barbecue set menus to get the most bang for our buck.
Must-tries: Seafood pancake, tangsuyuk, seafood noodles
How much: Soups start from $25, barbecue sets start from $75
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am – 11.30pm
Address: O.bba Jjajang, 77 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088498
12. Tendon Ginza Itsuki
Craving tempura? Skip the sushi and head straight to this popular hotspot – the sister restaurant of Ramen Keisuke. Its tendon bowls are light, crisp, and flavourful, featuring everything from seafood to vegetable tempura. And let’s not forget the silky-smooth chawanmushi. The menu may be small and the queues long, but trust us, it’s worth the wait.
Must-tries: Chawanmushi, tempura ramen egg
How much: Tendon sets start from $14.90
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5pm – 9.30pm; Saturday – Sunday, 11.30am – 9.30pm
Address: Tendon Ginza Itsuki, 101 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088522
13. Luka
We’ve got mad love for Luka and its fresh take on Italian-Japanese cuisine. This laid-back spot is perfect for team lunches or lively dinner gatherings with friends. Make room for standout pasta dishes like spaghetti with squid ink cream or veal agnolotti in a luscious butter sage sauce. And, of course, pizzas are a must – the prosciutto and burrata pie is simply sensational.
Must-tries: Wagyu meatball, mentaiko pasta, plin agnolotti
How much: Lunch sets start from $55, pastas start from $30
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: Luka, 18 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088441
14. Bar-Roque Grill
This spot is all about fun and togetherness, with chef Stephane serving up French-inspired dishes packed with character. The menu is an homage to his home region of Alsace, and we’re all here for it. Must-tries include smoky, charred beef cuts dry-aged in-house, as well as hearty plates like roasted chicken breast and lamb prepared four ways. For more variety, the menu also offers pasta, seafood, cheese, and charcuterie. Tip: come hungry, because you’ll be fed very well.
Must-tries: Beef Wellington, bone marrow, tarte flambee
How much: Mains start from $36
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 11.30pm
Address: Bar-Roque Grill, #01-00, Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088539
15. Restaurant Euphoria
Restaurant Euphoria has been awarded a Michelin star since 2022, so expect a sleek and sophisticated experience like no other. The menu elevates freshly-sourced ingredients in the most intricate, beautiful way. Dining here is quite the treat, and we’re already keeping an eye out for when we can go next.
Must-tries: Fixed tasting menu
How much: Lunch course menu starts at $158, dinner course menu starts at $248
Opening hours: Tuesday – Wednesday, 6.30pm – 11pm; Thursday – Saturday, 12pm – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 11pm
Address: Restaurant Euphoria, 76 Tras Street, Singapore 079015
16. Ramen Keisuke Gyoza King
Tucked amongst the rows of Japanese restaurants in Tanjong Pagar is Gyoza King. It’s a tiny, no-frills space with regular queues outside, so come earlier to beat the crowds. Chef Keisuke Takeda’s signature gyoza comes with a variety of fillings, which we love because you can have good ol’ Japanese dumplings with new flavours every time. We’re partial to the classic pork fillings, but you can also give the shrimp and cheese gyoza a try. Both are delicious either way!
Must-tries: Chicken nanban, pork gyoza, stir-fried egg with chives
How much: Gyoza sets start at $14.90
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 11.30am – 3pm & 5pm – 10.30pm; Saturday – Sunday, 11.30am – 10pm
Address: Ramen Keisuke Gyoza King, #01-15, Orchid Hotel, 1 Tras Link, Singapore 078867
17. Jigger & Pony
A constant fixture on Asia’s 50 Best Bars lists, we think Jigger & Pony hits all the right notes. The ambience is smokin’, the service is on point, the decor is gorgeous, and the cocktails are impeccable. We can never pass up a chance to have a drink here! But no worries if you can’t choose a cocktail from the vast menu – just ask the friendly servers for a recommendation. Oh, and we love how alcohol-free options are available, too. They’re so flavourful and classy, you won’t miss the booze.
Must-tries: Espresso martini, Ugly Tomatoes
How much: Cocktails start at $28
Opening hours: Sunday – Tuesday, 6pm – 12am; Wednesday – Thursday, 6pm – 1am; Friday – Saturday, 6pm – 2am
Address: Jigger & Pony, Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088539
18. Terra
The brainchild of chef-owner Seita Nakahara, this spot blends Japanese food culture with Italian cuisine – and it’s well worth the hype. The menu changes at the chef’s whim, so expect to be surprised by his creative interpretations. Psst: with its one Michelin star, this is a top pick for an idyllic date night.
Must-tries: Omakase menu
How much: Lunch omakase menu starts at $78, dinner omakase menu starts at $128
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 12pm – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 10.30pm; Saturday, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Address: Terra, 54 Tras Street, Singapore 078993
19. The Blue Ginger
When a craving for authentic Peranakan food hits, The Blue Ginger is the place to be. Nestled in a charming shophouse since 1995, this beloved institution has stood the test of time. Start with the kueh pie tee – delicate cups filled with shredded bamboo shoot, turnip, and shrimp – before diving into the rich, aromatic beef rendang. Trust us, you’ll be coming back for more!
Must-tries: Ngo heong, beef rendang, otak otak, chendol
How much: Mains start from $24
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm – 3pm & 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Address: The Blue Ginger, 97 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088518
20. Bearded Bella
A cosy little cafe perfect for unwinding, Bearded Bella packs a punch with bold flavours and textures. The mains offer a creative spin on brunch classics — so if you need somewhere unique to bring your beau, consider popping by in the morning. Save room for dessert and indulge in a selection of cakes. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so your pup can enjoy a meal from its special pet menu too!
Must-tries: Salmon pistachio rosti, corned beef maple toast, scallop and cold pasta
How much: Mains start from $22
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 7.30am – 5pm; Saturday – Sunday, 7.30am – 9pm
Address: Bearded Bella, 8 Craig Road, Singapore 089668
21. Ramen Keisuke Tori King
From the same team behind the Keisuke ramen group, this Japanese restaurant serves up exquisite goodness. The exceptional broth of the tori king ramen is made from chicken bones, chicken feet, Japanese seaweed and veggies boiled together for eight hours. Don’t forget to slurp loudly while eating a bowl of the signature broth!
Must-tries: Tori King tsukemen, Tori King ramen special
How much: Ramen starts at $12.90
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5pm – 9.30pm; Saturday – Sunday, 11.30am – 9.30pm
Address: Ramen Keisuke Tori King, #03-15, 100AM, 100 Tras Street, Singapore 079027
22. The Public Izakaya
Located on the ground floor of 100AM, this lively spot is perfect for alfresco dining with a buzzing atmosphere. The extensive menu offers plenty of scrumptious options – think udon, yakitori skewers, and crispy chicken karaage. Grab a seat at the bar counter and soak in the vibes. It’s a popular go-to for Friday night unwinding!
Must-tries: Oden, karaage, buta kakuni, croquettes
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: Public Izakaya by Hachi, #01-08, 100AM, 100 Tras Street, Singapore 079027
23. Café&Meal Muji
For wholesome Japanese fare, head to the newly opened Café&Meal Muji. Enjoy healthy meals, warm soups, and savoury bites, with comforting classics like miso soup and seasonal deli options. A must-try is the fan-favourite sakura chicken with curry miso and dried chilli — perfectly satisfying!
Must-tries: Pork katsu donburi, kohi pork, king oyster mushroom
How much: Sets start at $14.80
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 8pm
Address: Café&Meal Muji, #04-04 to 08, 100AM, 100 Tras Street, Singapore 079027
24. Fleur de Sel
Francophiles will love the authentic French offerings at Fleur de Sel, where chef-owner Alexandre Lozachmeur brings his expertise, including six years under the legendary Alain Ducasse, to the table. Whether you’re here for a set lunch or an indulgent dinner, expect dishes served by the chef or his skilled culinary team, creating an intimate chef’s table experience.
Must-tries: Fixed set menu
How much: Lunch sets start at $78, dinner sets start at $148
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 12pm – 2pm & 6.30pm – 10pm
Address: Fleur de Sel, 64 Tras Street, Singapore 079003
25. Papi’s Tacos
If icy margaritas, loaded tacos, and cheesy quesadillas are calling your name, swing by this popular taco joint’s Tanjong Pagar outpost. You’ll know the menu is the real deal — especially if you’ve had authentic Mexican fare in the US. Sink your teeth into corn tortillas stuffed with slow-braised beef cheek, crispy fried dory, grilled tiger prawns, and more.
Must-tries: Fish tacos, beef quesadillas, tres leches cake
How much: Tacos start from $14, quesadillas start from $16
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: Papi’s Tacos, 33 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088456
26. Takagi Coffee
If your sweet tooth is calling, make a beeline for this Japanese roastery cafe. With beans roasted in-house, you’ll know you’re in the right spot the moment you catch a whiff of freshly brewed coffee. But the real showstopper? The pancakes. These fluffy stacks come topped with fruit, syrup, and even ice cream. It’s so good, you might just be tempted to order another round!
Must-tries: Millefueille pancakes, mixed berry French toast
How much: Teas start from $4.50, pancakes start from $6.40
Opening hours: Daily, 8am – 9pm
Address: Takagi Coffee, #01-14B, 100AM, 100 Tras Street, Singapore 079027
27. Night Hawk
This unique cocktail bar in Tanjong Pagar is a must-visit. Expect inventive tipples featuring unexpected ingredients like peanut butter, hot sauce, and bitter gourd. If you’re dabbling in the sober-curious lifestyle, there are non-alcoholic options too. The bar operates on a walk-in-only basis, so it’s best to call ahead to check on seat availability before heading over.
Must-tries: The Milky Way, Nighthawks
How much: Cocktails start from $25 each
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 5.30pm – 12am
Address: Night Hawk, #01-02, 43 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088464
28. Birds of Paradise
This beloved gelato boutique has landed in Tanjong Pagar, much to the delight of dessert lovers. If you appreciate quality gelato, this is a must-try. Birds of Paradise is renowned for its rich, creamy textures and botanical-inspired flavours. Expect familiar Southeast Asian herbs woven into its signature creations, with delicate notes of basil and blue ginger adding a unique touch.
Must-tries: White chrysanthemum, lychee raspberry, strawberry basil
How much: Single scoops start from $6.50
Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday, 12pm – 10pm; Friday – Saturday, 12pm – 10.30pm
Address: Birds of Paradise, #01-01, 53 Craig Road, Singapore 089691
With places like these, you’ll never go hungry the next time you’re at Tanjong Pagar!
