Have an extraordinary time at these unique dining experiences in Singapore that are packed with unusual adventures.
Forget your favourite restaurants; go the extra mile with unique dining experiences in Singapore. These themed restaurants and cool concepts will immerse you in everything from a wizarding world to a safari, creating unforgettable fun. For more off-the-beaten-track gourmet adventures, try private home dining in Singapore or home cafes in Singapore.
Unique dining experiences in Singapore
1. Absurdities
Things are absurdly exciting here: this unusual dining experience engages all your senses – even your physical being. It’s a multi-sensory omakase guaranteed to surprise you at every turn. Be prepared for the unexpected, as you’ll be Narnia’d through six courses as each cleverly hidden door brings you to a whole new world. Pro tip: you may or may not end up climbing or crawling through spaces across the two-hour journey, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
Best for: Theatrical experiences that are totally immersive
Price: $198 per pax
Opening hours: Monday, Thursday to Saturday, 6pm to 11pm
Address: Absurdities, secret location revealed 24 hours before your reservation
2. Mama Diam
How’s this for a retro throwback? Hit up Mama Diam, a speakeasy spot with an outdoor facade inspired by mama shops, Singapore’s old school convenience stores in the 80s and 90s. Imagine traditional snacks, vintage trinkets, and HDB void deck stools hiding a dimly-lit interior where diners chill with a drink in hand.
The food is equally quirky and eclectic, tinged with local flavours to make modern classics. Start with the chilli softshell crab bao, roast duck tarts and chicken curry kueh pie tee before moving on to mains like Hainanese pork chop and 12-hour braised beef cheek. End with the crunchy kaya churros for a sweet finale.
Best for: Those who love restaurant-bars hidden behind secret doors
Must-tries: Chilli softshell crab bao; roast duck tarts; chicken curry kueh pie tee
Price: Mains from $20.90
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday, 4pm to 10.30pm; Friday and Saturday, 4pm to midnight
Address: Mama Diam, #01-01, 38 Prinsep Street, Singapore 188665
3. Joji’s Diner
If you’ve been watching TV and wondering what an American diner experience is like, you’re in luck. Make your Riverdale dreams come true at this retro hangout, with its red-and-white chairs, vinyl records hanging on the walls, and chill vibes. It’s an explosion of colour and we love it. Settle into a booth to order affordably priced and generously portioned menu items like chicken and waffles, mac and cheese, pancakes and milkshakes.
P.S. be prepared to join a long line of hungry diners, especially on weekends when the place gets packed. Alternatively, you can head to the neighbouring Joji’s Deli next door for some of the best sandwiches in Singapore.
Best for: American retro diner vibes
Must-tries: Chicken and waffles; mac and cheese
Price: From $12
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours
Address: Joji’s Diner, 534 Upper Serangoon Road, Singapore 534549
4. Synthesis
Traditional Chinese Medicine isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of unique dining in Singapore, but this TCM-themed restaurant might prove you wrong. Synthesis elevates the food scene in Suntec City with its modern take on a TCM hall starring neon signs, club vibes and a lively atmosphere.
The food is crafted with wholesome and nourishing ingredients inspired by the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. You’ll spot contemporary fusion creations like truffle carbonara ‘suan pan zi’, Golden Emperor croquettes, and XO lapcheong pani puri on the menu. Pair them with cocktails featuring the likes of artichoke liqueur, dried Chinese apricot puree, and nashi pear-infused gin for a thoroughly unconventional experience.
Best for: An edgy, TCM-inspired dining experience
Must-tries: Truffle carbonara ‘suan pan zi’; Golden Emperor croquettes
Price: Set lunch menu from $38++; dishes from $14; drinks from $5
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 2pm & 4pm to 10.30pm
Address: Synthesis, #01-643, Suntec City East Wing Tower 4, 3 Temasek Boulevard, Singapore 038983
5. Smith Marine Floating Restaurant
Built on top of a steel pontoon, Smith Marine is one of the last remaining kelongs in Singapore. A short ferry ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal will take you to this unique dining experience, which is the first floating seafood restaurant in Singapore. Although you won’t be able to visit the actual fish farm, you can sample its delicious eats. Tuck into fresh seafood like crab, lobster and scallops while enjoying the cool sea breeze. Reservations require you to book in advance, so be sure to drop ’em a message.
Best for: A nostalgic taste of the past
Must-tries: Fresh seafood
Price: From $580 for 7-course set menu (feeds 5 pax)
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 7pm
Address: Smith Marine Floating Restaurant, between Pulau Ubin and Changi Point Ferry Terminal
6. The Wizard’s Brew
Captivated by all things mystical? Check out Singapore’s first wizard-themed dessert concept and bar. You’ll be spellbound when you step into the dark den, which invites you into its whimsical world with bewitching books, wanted posters, and floating pages. Start your enchanting journey with light bites like nacho chips, tater tots and quesadillas before moving on to delightful desserts such as The Reaper’s Gold and Flaming Cauldron. And yes, these sweet treats are totally photo-worthy.
Don’t forget to order a couple of potions for the table! The Secret Spell is a mix of gin, orange juice, soda water and pink grapefruit, while Sparkulous blends rum with lemon juice and butterfly pea.
Best for: A magical, enchanting evening
Must-tries: Wizard’s Brew Secret Spell; Flaming Cauldron; Reaper’s Gold Price: From $18; drinks from $13
Opening hours: Sunday, Tuesday to Wednesday, 3pm to 11pm; Thursday to Saturday, 3pm to 12am
Address: The Wizard’s Brew, 10B Trengganu Street, Singapore 058464
7. Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari
Here’s a fun, outdoorsy idea: dine alfresco under a rustic tent and spend time with nature at Tiong Bahru Bakery’s Dempsey location. The pastries are delicious (as always), the coffee’s great, and you get a totally different vibe from its other outlets. Little ones will love the family-friendly safari-themed cafe with a mini playground nestled amidst lush greenery.
Best for: A wild safari adventure
Must-tries: Croissant; lemon tart
Price: From $4.20; drinks from $4.70
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 6pm
Address: Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari, 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819
8. Platform 1094
So you think you know your spells? Or perhaps you’re still waiting (in vain) for a letter from a particular magical institution. Jump on your broomstick and fly over to this wonderful world of wizardry. While its interior may not be totally witchy, you’ll get to geek out over all things Harry Potter. The menu also features whimsically-named items like dragon milk cheese sticks and the house elves’ special pork ribs. Plus, let’s not forget the potions (non-alcoholic) and poisons (alcoholic) for you to sip on.
Best for: Potterheads who want an immersive experience
Must-tries: The Flying Charm; Poisonous Toadstool; Mr Lich’s Flaming Brew
Price: Food from $10; drinks from $4
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 10pm
Address: Platform 1094, 1094 Serangoon Road, Singapore 328192
9. Janice Wong at the Supertree
If you love homegrown dessert chef Janice Wong’s extraordinary creations, take a trip to her space on top of the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay. Decadent pastries and lovely chocolates coupled with stunning panoramic views? That makes for a sweet date if you ask us. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase a $10 ticket to enter the observatory deck first.
Tip: for an elevated experience, head over in the evening to admire the Garden Rhapsody shows at 7.45pm and 8.45pm.
Best for: Unique desserts with stunning views
Must-tries: Chocolates; bespoke cocktails
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm
Address: Janice Wong at the Supertree, #03-01, Supertree Observatory, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
10. Singapore Zoo
We’re big fans of the Singapore Zoo and its family-friendly experiences. One thing you’ve gotta try at least once in your life? Breakfast in the wild. It’s the best way to start the day!
Set in Ah Meng Restaurant at the rainforest zoo, the daily spread features local and international dishes including mee siam, prata, waffles, scrambled eggs, baked goods and more. Best of all, you’ll meet ‘animal ambassadors’ such as macaws and orangutans and listen to tales about these creatures from their keepers.
Best for: Animal encounters up close
Price: Enquire for price
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10.30am to 4pm; Saturday to Sunday, 10am to 4.30pm
Address: Singapore Zoo, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
11. Royal Albatross
Set sail on Royal Albatross to sip on wine and bask in the warm sunset glow aboard the luxury tall-ship. With thematic cruises and curated dining menus that are constantly refreshed, there’s a sea-venture for everyone.
For the romantics, the sunset dinner cruise on Fridays and weekends is your best bet. Enjoy a delectable four-course meal with your beau while knocking back some tipples. Alternatively, the weekend city lights cruise runs on Saturdays with a curated four-course dinner menu. Early risers, don’t miss out on the pet-friendly weekend breakfast cruise with an international buffet fit for champs. We hosted our team bonding session with huskies in tow, and everyone absolutely loved it!
Best for: An unforgettable voyage with your date or family
Price: $225 for adults and juniors (13 to 17 years old); $125 for children (up to 12 years old)
Address: Royal Albatross, Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
12. Ocean Restaurant
Take a seat in this elegant restaurant to enjoy sumptuous food, alongside a stunning view of majestic manta rays and 40,000 marine animals. Ocean Restaurant is a unique underwater restaurant offering a delicious fusion of modern European cuisine, alongside captivating views of aquatic animals.
Curated by chef Oliver Bellin, a two-starred Michelin chef from Brittany who’s known for his passion for sustainability, the fine dining space spotlights responsibly sourced seafood and locally farmed produce. Plus, it’s perfect for hosting weddings, corporate gatherings, and other celebratory occasions. An intimate setting with unparalleled views of the marine wonders? We’re sold.
Best for: An elegant dining experience with marine creatures
Price: From $148++ for lunch; From $248++ for dinner
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 3pm & 6pm to 10.30pm
Address: Ocean Restaurant, B1M, Equarius Hotel, 16 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098133
13. Nox – Dine in the Dark
Take away your sight and you’re left with enhanced senses for taste, smell, touch and sound. That’s the idea at this pitch-black restaurant. It’s a unique dining experience in Singapore – one we can’t stop thinking about after our memorable dinner.
You’re led to your table by friendly, visually impaired hosts, who offer you all the guidance you need to find your chair and cutlery. It’s an unfamiliar sensation as you feel your way around the table and try the mysterious 12-dish modern European menu, which you can pair with wines or cocktails. All the fun is in guessing what’s what (your palate may surprise you) and relaxing in the peaceful darkness – no phones allowed!
Best for: A pitch-black experience that stimulates your other senses
Price: $98++ per person
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sundays, 6pm to 10.30pm
Address: Nox – Dine in the Dark, 83 Club Street, Singapore 069451
Which unique dining experience in Singapore are you most excited to try?
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a “unique dining experience” in Singapore?
A “unique dining experience” goes beyond food. It combines immersive theming, multi-sensory elements, theatrical ambiance, or an unconventional setting. These restaurants aim to create a memorable event rather than a simple meal.
Should I make reservations?
Yes, especially for the popular or niche ones. Some, like Absurdities, require booking in advance, as the secret location is only revealed 24 hours before. During peak periods like weekends or public holidays, the restaurants may get fully booked quickly.
Are unique dining experiences in Singapore family-friendly?
Many are, but it depends on the theme. For example, Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari offers a relaxed, outdoorsy, kid-friendly cafe vibe with children in mind. Singapore Zoo’s breakfast in the wild is family-oriented, combining animal encounters with dining.
However, some immersive experiences may involve crawling, darkness, surprise elements, or theatrical components (such as Absurdities and Nox) that may not be suitable for young children or those with sensory sensitivities.
What should I wear or bring?
Depending on the experience, you may want to consider wearing comfortable clothing and shoes, especially if you'll be moving around at immersive places like Absurdities or exploring a ship onboard Royal Albatross. Dress appropriately for the setting and check the arrival time and late arrival policy.
