New restaurants and menus in Singapore are constantly on our radar. Bookmark this page for the lowdown on all the hottest openings for 2025!
New restaurants in Singapore are popping up all the time (despite the recent reports of businesses closing), showcasing our city’s vibrant food scene is constantly growing. You’ll find everything from the best restaurants in Singapore to casual local joints that keep things exciting. From Asian faves like Korean restaurants in Singapore to international flavours like Italian restaurants in Singapore, the options are endless. Looking for the next must-try spot? Here are the most anticipated new restaurants and menus in Singapore, curated by our team of local food experts.
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: November 2025
New menu: Sláinte
Tucked away on the fourth floor of Paragon, Sláinte (pronounced as ‘slawn-cha’) beckons with a deep, alluring aroma of smouldering applewood charcoal. Here, smoky meats seared to perfection take the spotlight, featuring premium cuts air-flown from around the world.
The snow-aged Niigata A4 wagyu is an indulgent must-try, thanks to its rich umami marbling and melt-in-the-mouth texture. We were also impressed by the chef’s 60-day dry-aged porterhouse steak paired with complementary sauces like chimichurri, bearnaise and whole-grain mustard; the flame-grilled Iberico pork cooked to medium-well; the Jack’s Creek wagyu hanger steak; as well as the roasted bone marrow with pulled beef and charred focaccia.
Hankering for small plates before the mains? Try the char siew pork jowl with a glistening sweet-savoury glaze and perfectly rendered fat, alongside the scallop and prawn tartlet for a stellar pairing of buttery pastry with plump, fresh seafood.
Your experience is incomplete without a stop at the bar. Home to a rare, auction-sourced whisky collection, here’s where you can sip by the dram from just $16. Our top pick goes to the signature Sláinte cocktail. A blend of smoky Islay Scotch, sweet vermouth, Aperol and cinnamon, this tipple pays homage to the restaurant’s Irish roots.
Come by during the day for a hearty breakfast or brunch. The restaurant serves comforting dishes like Irish potato pancakes and shakshuka, paired with aromatic Allpress coffee. In an area known for glitz and sky-high prices, Sláinte is a refreshing find that offers exquisite flavours and premium ingredients at value-worthy prices. It makes a refined spot for both everyday dining and special occasions, if you ask us.
Must-try items: Jack’s Creek wagyu hanger steak; flame-grilled Iberico pork; char siew pork jowl
How much: Starters from $9; mains from $19; drinks from $5
Opening hours: Sunday to Friday, 11am to 10pm; Saturday, 10am to 10pm
Address: #04-09, Paragon Shopping Centre, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
New restaurant: Il Toro Woodfire Grill
If you’re looking for an exciting woodfire grill dining experience, we highly recommend checking out Il Toro Woodfire Grill. A stone’s throw away from sister brand Cendra Tapas Bar and Grill, this newbie in the Telok Ayer block is where you can sink your teeth into dishes cooked over an open flame.
Our dinner kicked off with the focaccia and beef fat candle ($8), which surprised us – in the best way possible. The bread soaked up the beef fat and tasted savoury-sweet, leaving us hyped up for the rest of the meal. Most of what we had were certified hits; if we had to nitpick, we say don’t go for the seafood. Yes, those are a little tricky to nail right on woodfire, so skip them to avoid disappointment.
Another thing we loved about Il Toro? It’s the perfect spot for any kind of gathering, from intimate first dates to catching up with ex-colleagues over yummy, woodfired dishes and tipples. Oh, but be sure to pick a table away from the counter, unless you don’t mind smelling like smoked meat by the end of the night!
Must-try items: Focaccia with beef fat candle; Coffin Bay oysters with yuzu koshu & smoked beef fat; Blackmore wagyu ms9+ tri tip
How much: Starters from $8; mains from $40; desserts at $16
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.30pm
Address: 18 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069255
Visit Il Toro Woodfire Grill Il Toro Woodfire Grill’s menus
New restaurant: Im Jai by Pun Im
Tanjong Pagar’s food scene is already bussin’, but that doesn’t mean new entries like Im Jai by Pun Im, chef Vincent Pang’s newest baby, can’t join in on the fun. The food maestro cut his culinary teeth training at Le Cordon Bleu and Michelin-starred restaurants, so you can only expect the best here.
The menu pays homage to Thailand’s diverse regions, deliciously reflected in the dishes. The crispy cloud egg ($16.80) was a show-stopping treat, nailing the balance of sweet and savoury flavours. Another must-order starter is the tom yum crab balls ($10.80 for six pieces) – there were no “paiseh pieces” left! (Be prepared to order at least two plates to satisfy everyone.)
Of course, you can’t go to a Thai restaurant in Singapore and not order the pineapple fried rice ($18.80). Im Jai’s version combines Chinese sausage with house-made Thai pork floss; it’s a dish you can eat on its own. Dessert-wise, we couldn’t decide between the Bualoy (glutinous rice balls in coconut milk topped with salted egg lava cream, $7.80) and palm sugar & coconut pudding ($5.80), so we had both. A sweet finale, if you do say so ourselves!
Must-try items: Focaccia with beef fat candle; Coffin Bay oysters with yuzu koshu & smoked beef fat; Blackmore wagyu ms9+ tri tip
How much: Lunch menu at $18.80; food from $10.80; desserts from $7.80; drinks from $6
Opening hours: Weekdays, 11am to 3pm & 4pm to 9.30pm
Address: #01-78/81, Icon Village, 12 Gopeng Street, Singapore 078877
New restaurant: Yara
Yara is serving up soulful Asian flavours with a smoky, chargrilled edge. Start light with haricot vert kerabu ($18), a zingy Malaysian-style salad with ginger flower and fermented chilli dressing, or the soft tofu caprese ($12), where silken tofu meets plum-marinated tomatoes and homemade ponzu vinaigrette.
From the grill, bold flavours take centre stage: the grilled spiced chicken ($26 for half, $48 for whole) and Altair grass-fed wagyu picanha (from $45) are kissed by charcoal embers and paired with fragrant sambals or punchy Asian-style chimichurri. Comfort seekers should go straight for the soul-warming yu-tang clam bowl ($24), while desserts like the airy chilled ‘kueh talam’ pudding ($10) or the refined bruleed chocolate brusciato ($12) provide the perfect finish.
The dining space itself is a highlight: 2,800 sq ft of minimalist light wood and sunlit interiors make it feel calm and airy during the day, while evenings turn the spot into a warm, convivial hub. There’s also outdoor seating for a sunny weekend catch-up, and private events can be accommodated in the stylish, modern space.
Must-try items: Haricot vert kerabu; grilled spiced chicken; Altair grass-fed wagyu picanha; ‘kueh talam’ pudding
How much: Small plates from $12; mains from $20; desserts from $10
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 3pm & 5 to 10pm (closed on Wednesdays)
Address: 26 Evans Road, Singapore 259367
New restaurant: Gochu
Gochu is a new Korean spot heating things up in the north, and it’s not your usual K-BBQ joint. This is a culinary escape tucked away in the lush grounds of Orchid Golf Club. Named after the iconic Korean chilli pepper, this restaurant promises the true taste of Korea. Think oakwood flames, hand-prepped meats, and a dining space that looks like a chic stone cave meets a forest retreat.
The star of the show? The deep-fried chilli peppers (a cult favourite from Korean markets) are crunchy, savoury, and stuffed with minced pork, tofu, and greens. It’s the kind of dish that’ll ruin you for boring bar bites forever. Also not to be missed: the pork ribs BBQ, slow-cooked for juiciness and fire-seared over oakwood for that smoky, primal hit. Everything here is cooked the old-school way, then finished at your table with its signature smokeless grill.
If you’re more into noodle therapy, Gochu’s got you. Its black soy cold noodles ($22) are made fresh and served the traditional way – comforting, soulful, and shockingly hard to find in Singapore. Pair your meal with one of its Korean-inspired highballs to savour the “true taste of Korea”.
Must-try items: Deep-fried chilli peppers; pork ribs BBQ; black soy cold noodles
How much: Signature set at $140; food from $12
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 3pm & 5pm to 10pm (weekends from 11am to 10pm)
Address: Orchid Golf Club, 1 Orchid Club Road, Singapore 769162
New menu: Ember Restaurant
Hidden behind a wooden door in the Boat Quay area, Ember Restaurant is an underrated spot serving wood-fired meat and seafood from an open kitchen. Step in, and you’re instantly transported to a floral wonderland, complete with ambient lighting, whimsical flowers and lush greens draped across the ceiling, and cosy corners for date nights.
The restaurant has been around since 2023, but with a newly-launched menu, now is the perfect time to visit. At our dinner experience, we were impressed with the friendly service, extensive wine selection, and quality of the food.
Start 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.
Must-try items: Signature cold angel hair; taramasalata crab toast; Spanish octopus tentacles; Koji aged Argentinian grain-fed ribeye
How much: Brunch from $16; set lunch from $28; dinner mains from $38
Opening hours: Daily 5.30pm to 11pm (and Thursdays to Sundays, 11.30am to 3.30pm)
Address: #01-01, 35 North Canal Road, Singapore 059291
Visit Ember Restaurant Ember Restaurant’s menu
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: October 2025
New restaurant: La Vache!
Discovering a new vibey dining spot always gets us excited. From the minute we arrived at La Vache!’s entrance, we knew we were in for a treat. Nestled nearby Keong Saik’s vibrant dining strip, nothing screams “out of the box” more than a neon blinking cow, for sure! The vibes extend to the dining room, where soft lighting, checkered patterns, and red leather banquettes dominate. It definitely felt like we’d stepped into a Parisian steakhouse.
For $68++, you’ll be treated to a minimal, no-fuss meal consisting of a bright, crisp green salad (organic leaves and walnuts tossed in a tangy mustard vinaigrette), 280g of double gold ribeye seared to your preferences, and unlimited fries. Say what? Yes, but let’s talk about the steak first. We had ours in medium rare, and we daresay it’s one of the best steaks we’ve had in a long time. The meat comes with a signature sauce, but we highly recommend eating it on its own for maximum flavour.
Now, we dive into the unlimited fries. These skinny legends are cooked in beef tallow, adding more umami to the dish. It’s like having shaker fries from a certain fast food chain, but fancier. The staff will come over to your table intermittently to top up your frites stash, and we constantly found ourselves saying, “pile them on”. Addictive? Most definitely. It’s no wonder this spot holds its own among the city’s fine dining restaurants in Singapore that balance indulgence with flair.
Even if you’re already full at this point, don’t you dare skip on the dessert trolley, which features classic French pastries like profiteroles, lemon meringue tart, and raspberry millefeuille (all at $16++). We tasted everything and while it’s hard to choose a favourite, our top pick is the lemon meringue tart. It’s not too sweet, with a lovely citrus flavour that’s not overpowering.
Must-try items: 280g double gold ribeye; unlimited fries; lemon meringue tart; profiteroles
How much: $68++ per person
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 2.30pm & 6pm to 10pm
Address: #01-03, 40 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069269
Visit La Vache! La Vache!’s menu
New restaurant: 54º Steakhouse
We have plenty of brilliant steak restaurants in Singapore, and this newcomer in Amoy Street is no different. Located within the bustling Telok Ayer restaurants district, 54º Steakhouse comes from the brilliant minds that brought us Altro Zafferano and Griglia. It’s the group’s first foray into a concept outside of Italian cuisine. Blending classic steakhouse with elevated service, it’s the place to be for business dinners, celebrations, or a special date night.
The house-made butter and potato brioche ($8) is the top pick for bread and butter lovers. The whipped caramelised onion butter is an umami bomb of flavour and is a dream to spread on the warm and extra soft bread. The pan-seared Hokkaido scallops ($32) take on a surf-and-turf angle, and we enjoyed the addition of the smoked bacon.
What we love the most as steak lovers is the huge range of cuts available in this restaurant. If you’re going with a big group, we recommend the restaurant-exclusive Black Market Angus by Rangers Valley. It comes in either a T-bone ($248) or porterhouse ($288) cut, and makes for a showstopping dinner. (Review by Ashe Liao, Lifestyle Writer)
Must-try items: Sanchoku wagyu; Black Market Angus by Rangers Valley; mac and cheese; triple-cooked potato wedges
How much: Steaks from $48; mains from $48; sides from $14
Opening hours: Weekdays, 11.30am to 2.30pm & 6pm to 11pm, and Saturdays, 6pm to 11pm
Address: 54 Amoy Street, Singapore 069880
Visit 54º Steakhouse 54º Steakhouse’s menus
New restaurant: Tomacado
Hailing from China, Tomacado is a portmanteau of the fruits tomato and avocado, which inspired the birth of this restaurant. After 10 years and 13 branches, the brand decided to expand globally, with Singapore being its first overseas flagship outlet. The thing that stopped us in our tracks was the flowers decorating the space. It truly felt like we stepped into a floral garden! Take a walk around and spot the eight artworks by artisans in China.
The extensive menu means you’ll need a bit of time to decide on what to order, but we’re here to help. Start with the signature honey-roasted pumpkin salad ($34), which comes with sliced pumpkins and avocado, chickpeas, and mixed nuts, all tossed in a honey vinaigrette. Or go for the signature cured salmon ($28), which is refreshing yet savoury.
Main-wise, we really liked both the signature roasted chicken with black truffle ($39 for half and $69 for whole) and the MBS 6/7 wagyu steak ($87). The truffle wasn’t prominent, but the golden chook still paired well with the accompanying chilli flakes. The steak comes with three dipping sauces, but we say eat it plain to enjoy the juices and flavour.
The signature almond chocolate cake ($14) tasted as pretty as it looked, though we wished it were bigger, given its price point. Another gripe of ours? For all of the blooms seen all over the space, there were hardly any on the dishes. It would’ve been great if the restaurant had leaned into the theme and translated it into some menu items. Before you leave, stop by the on-site florist and get some flowers for yourself. A stalk or a bouquet? That’s entirely up to you.
Located in Orchard, this Orchard restaurant in Singapore delivers a decent dining experience, though it feels like it could push its floral concept a little further.
Must-try items: Signature honey roasted pumpkin salad; MBS 6/7 wagyu steak; signature roasted chicken with black truffle
How much: Appetisers from $12; mains from $24; desserts from $14; drinks from $12
Opening hours: Weekdays, 11am to 10pm and weekends, 10am to 10pm
Address: #01-22, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
New concept: Artichoke
What comes to mind when someone you know for a long time suddenly changes, blindsiding everyone? You’d probably think “mid-life crisis”, but for chef Bjorn Shen and his team, it’s a plot twist that’s not as random as it seems. After 15 years, Artichoke felt it was time to switch things up, and so it did: from a funky Mediterranean restaurant in Singapore to a pizza parlour, reflecting chef Bjorn’s love for the Italian dish.
The revamped menu features three pizza types: Rounds (puffy pies that are fried and then baked), Slabs (crunchy rectangles), and Stacks (double-decked stuffed Slabs). Our favourite is the Dirty Duck Stacks ($30), which tasted like a loving tribute to Indonesian cuisine. Bali-spiced duck and sambal matah can never go wrong with us.
We also enjoyed the two Stabs that we had: beef pepperoni with chilli honey and pickled long peppers ($26) and dirty magherita ($22). They’re savoury and spicy, while the cheesy base adds another umami layer to the flavour profile.
It’s not just pizzas you’re getting here. The new menu is brimming with sides, snacks, and desserts, enough for a full Artichoke feast. One must-try item is the super crunchy fried chicken ($24), which comes with za’atar honey and Lebanese garlic sauce or Chinatown spiced and fried peanuts. The creamy green harissa prawn spaghetti ($34) also gets two thumbs up from us, though we still can’t put our finger on why the dish tasted super familiar…
So, is Artichoke 2.0 worth it? Well, change is never easy, but we applaud chef Bjorn and his team for being brave and pivoting to something new. Sure, there are plenty of pizza places in Singapore, but think of this as another spot to add to your must-try list.
Must-try items: Dirty Duck Stacks; beef pepperoni with chilli honey and pickled long peppers; super crunchy fried chicken; creamy green harissa prawns spaghetti; cinnamon cherry pie
How much: Pizzas from $24; snacks from $8; sharing plates from $20; desserts from $14
Opening hours: Tuesdays, 5pm to 10pm and Wednesdays to Sundays, 11am to 10pm
Address: #01-02, New Bahru, Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
Visit Artichoke Artichoke’s menu
New concept: Ippudo Beyond
Ippudo at Mandarin Gallery is levelling up and offering items beyond ramen on its menu. The flagship’s new concept is all about new ramen creations you won’t get anywhere else, alongside a specially curated menu of appetisers and mains. We’re told diners in Singapore will be the first to try out potential new items here, and if they’re approved, the dishes will be rolled out to other Ippudo outlets worldwide.
Out of the five Japanese tapas (from $3) we’ve tried, the pani puri (minimum order of three pieces) gets our top vote. The restaurant offers a different take on the popular Indian street food by replacing the filling with avocado, salmon, and capers. If you prefer a different protein, go for the black pork charcoal fritters with mustard sauce (minimum order of two pieces). Be sure to eat them once they’re served, ‘cos the crunchiness lends a lovely textural contrast to the meat.
We weren’t sure of the red vegetable dip ($14). It’s a novelty dish (we’re told it’s a tribute to Ippudo’s red accent), but the only standout is the three dips: soy milk mayo, cranberry cheese sauce, and harissa miso.
There aren’t many choices for mains, but if you want a little spicy kick for your meal, the grilled jerk chicken ($15) is your best bet. That chilli ketchup? Chef’s kiss! We had the pan-seared sea bream ($18) and wished it were a touch more flaky, so that it could better absorb the white miso sauce.
Of course, you can’t dine at Ippudo and not get the ramen, aka the brand’s main character. We ordered a bowl of Uma-Rich shoyu (from $21) – the broth is made from pork, chicken, and clams, and blended with five types of Japanese soy sauces, which is why every slurp is so decadently rich. It can get a bit much after a while, so we recommend sharing one bowl between two people.
Must-try items: Pani puri; black pork charcoal fritters; sea bream carpaccio; pineapple floral tea
How much: Japanese tapas from $3; ramen from $20; mains from $15; drinks from $3
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: #04-02/03/04, Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road, Singapore 238897
New menu: Cendra
Spanish restaurant Cendra is one of those under-the-radar names that will stick in your mind after you visit it. The Gemmill Lane concept by Barcelona-born chef-owner Xavi Palau celebrates its first anniversary by splashing out on big flavours, and we loved every bit of our dinner experience. With casual, cheery vibes, it’s a great venue for communal dining. (We spotted a few tables gathering for special occasions.)
To start, take your pick from a selection of hot and cold tapas. We inhaled the “ensaladilla rusa” (a creamy potato-based salad) with salty smoked mackerel on crispy toast ($22), as well as roasted leeks with smoky romesco sauce and hazelnuts ($16). The gambas ‘al ajillo’ ($34) is another must-order – we couldn’t stop mopping up the garlicky, spicy olive oil with every bite of prawn.
For the meaty main, we went with Australian wagyu striploin ($90 for 300g). Those cuts of tender, juicy beef balanced well with the smoky confit piquillo peppers ($16), which had a tinge of bitterness to cut through the richness. Tip: don’t stop there, because dessert is well worth your stomach space. The light, impossibly fluffy chocolate soufflé ($18) is a dream to savour. Chef tells us it’s made without sugar or flour, and the result is a rich dark chocolate flavour that’s uplifted by the stracciatella ice cream. We’ll be back just for this! (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: ‘Ensaladilla rusa’ with smoked mackerel on crispy toast; gambas ‘al ajillo’, chocolate soufflé with stracciatella ice cream
How much: Tapas from $9; bigger plates from $38
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Mondays, 12pm to 2.30pm and 6pm to 11pm
Address: #01-01, 5 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069261
New menu: Restaurant Jag
The beloved Restaurant Jag, backed by one Michelin star, sees a new team take the reins this season. Executive chef Laurence Tan heads the kitchen and maintains the vegetable-forward identity with bolder flavours, as well as a la carte options that offer the flexibility of choice. Meanwhile, general manager Maryjoy Lim ensures each diner has an excellent experience and adds touches like signature scents alongside revised cheese and wine programmes.
Whether you’re after a quiet date night or an elegant celebration in a private dining room, the venue delivers. With produce sourced locally, regionally, and from Europe, the ingredients are brought in at the height of their freshness. We tried a couple of dishes from the a la carte menu, and here’s what stood out.
Start with hand-dived scallop and corn ($48++) to enjoy juicy scallops with a burst of sweetness from the corn variations. Meanwhile, the Sanchoku wagyu striploin ($108++) is pan-seared to perfection, and the creamy polenta is a pleasant, cheesy complement. We ended off with a cheese platter ($35++) for funky, savoury nibbles, but you can also choose from sweet options like strawberry tartare and cucumber sorbet ($25++) or chocolate ganache and pistachio ice cream ($25++). (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Pan-seared Sanchoku wagyu striploin; pan-seared hand-dived scallop and corn
How much: A la carte dishes from $38++; tasting menus from $175++
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Saturdays, 12pm to 3pm and Tuesdays to Saturdays, 6pm to midnight
Address: #02-02, STPI Creative Workshop and Gallery, 41 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238236
Visit Restaurant Jag Restaurant Jag’s menus
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: September 2025
New restaurant: Chip Bee Bistro
There’s a new face in Holland Village, and if you’re getting deja vu from Chip Bee Bistro, your senses are tingling in the right direction. Brought to you by the founding team behind PS.Cafe, the concept is simple but chic, with vibes reminiscent of the popular cafe. Think tropical foliage, bistro chairs, and mosaic tiles.
From small sharing plates to hearty mains, the menu features Australian and European influences. Start with appetisers like stracciatella and tomatoes ($19) for bites of creamy cheese and zesty tomatoes with ponzu dressing, as well as the scrumptious cucumber and zucchini dish ($14) with honey labneh and dill oil.
If you love pasta, the pappardelle with pork sausage ragu bianco ($24) is all kinds of satisfying, though the charred radicchio had a tinge too much bitterness for us. The seared Murray cod ($38) was our table’s favourite, pairing the juicy fish with the crunch of shaved fennel and cabbage and the comforting familiarity of potato chunks. To end the night, we recommend the apple tarte tatin ($16). Only 12 are prepared fresh daily and it requires a 20-minute wait, but it’s buttery, flaky, warm and delicious. Perfectly paired with vanilla ice cream! (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Pappardelle; cucumber & zucchini; seared Murray cod; apple tarte tatin
How much: Brunch dishes from $15; dinner mains from $25
Opening hours: Vary by day
Address: #01-48/50, 44 Jalan Merah Saga, Singapore 278116
Visit Chip Bee Bistro Chip Bee Bistro’s menu
New restaurant: Nitty Gritty
Nitty Gritty is a new spot we chanced upon – and one that we think deserves a little more limelight. Founded by a US-native husband and Singaporean wife, the restaurant positions itself as a spot for American-Singaporean soul food. It’s all about comforting dishes infused with bold local spices and ingredients.
Grits are the main star on the menu. For the uninitiated, it’s an American-style porridge made from dried ground corn, with a texture that sits between congee and risotto. Have it with your choice of protein (shrimp, beef bacon, Hainanese chicken or deboned frog leg), or dessert-style with toffee apple crisps and toasted pecans.
As first-time tasters of grits, we loved its versatility as a base and how it complemented the savoury ingredients. The plump shrimps were lathered in a delectable honey-garlic marinade, while the baby nai bai had an addictive smokiness. And the spoonful of chilli oil? A clever addition of Asian spices that surprisingly worked.
You can also find other brunch classics like souffle Dutch pancakes, waffles, and omelettes. We tried the Joy In The Morning omelette, a three-egg omelette filled with caramelised onions, chopped asparagus, mushrooms and feta that is served with two cornbread pancakes. The eggs were cooked to fluff perfection, and the honey cinnamon butter pancakes impressed by not being overly dry.
The ciders and sodas are also menu highlights, featuring syrups made in-house. Unfortunately, the strawberry cream soda was too sweet for our liking – especially as bubble tea drinkers who religiously pick a sugar level of 30% or lower. If you’re not a big sweet tooth, we reckon the coffee and tea selection would be more up your alley. (Review by Yuki Ling, Branded Content Writer)
Must-try items: Shrimp and grits; Joy In The Morning omelette
How much: Mains from $14; sides from $6; drinks from $4
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: #01-01, 21 Teo Hong Road, Singapore 088331
Visit Nitty Gritty Nitty Gritty’s menu
New restaurant: Smolder
Fresh catches, farm-to-table, grilled to smoky perfection – if these descriptions are music to your ears, you should pay attention to this. Wong Jia Kai, founder of fusion seafood restaurant Scaled, has finally opened a new establishment near Havelock MRT station. Smolder is all about keeping dishes simple (aka no frills, heavy seasoning, or anything fancy) and letting them speak for themselves.
The star of the show? Obviously, the whole fish! Our table had the whole grouper grilled ($88), and we’re still thinking about the dish. Only salt and pepper are added to the fish, which means you get to savour the juicy flesh in its natural sweetness. Those who love seafood but don’t want to deal with bones can tuck into the grouper piccata pasta ($26). The lemony butter sauce paired excellently with the pan-fried fish. No further notes from us!
On top of the big plates and mains, the sides are also stellar. Our top favourite is the zucchini and parmesan fritters – think bagedils, but bigger on flavour. The elote (grilled sweet corn with mayo, sour cream, parmesan, chilli, garlic, coriander, and lime) is another small plate you should have on your table. It may be a messy eat, but the taste is more than enough to make you get your hands dirty.
Must-try items: Whole grouper grilled; grouper piccata pasta; zucchini and parmesan fritters; elote
How much: A la carte from $6
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Thursdays, 5pm to 11pm and Fridays to Sundays, 12pm to 2.30pm & 5pm to 1am
Address: 271 Outram Road, Singapore 169062
New restaurant: Shin Katsu
Tanjong Pagar may be known as Singapore’s Koreatown, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find other cuisines in this buzzy district. Among the Tanjong Pagar new restaurants
worth checking out is Shin Katsu, which specialises in tonkatsu, elevating the humble Japanese dish to a premium dining experience thanks to the marrying of top-quality ingredients with refined cooking techniques.
The mangalica rose katsu ($42.80) is crispy on the outside and tenderly juicy on the inside. There’s a hint of sweetness to the meat; the specially paired salt cuts through the fried batter and balances with a surprisingly refreshing taste.
Those who prefer strong flavours can go for the mille-feuille black truffle katsu ($30.80), featuring thinly sliced Japanese pork, a generous dollop of black truffle between the layers, and served with truffle salt. It’s not just pork you can find here – there are chicken katsu and curry sets, as well as deep-fried skewers. All the fried goodness will leave you feeling full in no time. Watch out for food coma!
Must-try items: Mangalica rose katsu; mille-feuille black truffle katsu; fried taiyaki with matcha ice cream
How much: Katsu set from $21.80; katsu curry from $24.80; drinks from $1.50
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 3pm & 5pm to 10pm
Address: 84/86 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088505
Visit Shin Katsu Shin Katsu’s menu
New restaurant: Chatterbox Cafe
The masterminds behind Singapore’s legendary Chatterbox chicken rice have officially opened their cafe at Weave RWS Singapore. The space is bright, airy, and perfect for anything from a cosy date to a big family gathering. We even brought our parents along, and it was a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
The expanded menu features seafood and elevated tze char-style local classics. Think chilli crab ($168++ for 1.2 to 1.4kg), Nyonya assam barramundi ($28) and white pepper king prawns in hotplate ($30 for five pieces). The chilli crab shone in every way with a thick sauce that has just the right amount of spice. We also enjoyed the grilled satay ($17 for six skewers) with generous chunks of succulent, smoky chicken or beef paired with a sweet-savoury peanut sauce.
But no surprises for guessing the star of the show: Mandarin chicken rice. Priced from $25 for an individual set, this dish had us feeling all warm inside with the fragrant, soft rice and a hefty serving of tender steamed chicken. We also enjoyed dunking it into all three chilli, ginger puree and dark soya sauces.
For desserts, we went the Peranakan route with classic kuehs (get the sweet platter at $17), signature coconut ice cream ($15), chendol ($9), and peanut glutinous rice balls ($9). These are huge portions, so it’s best to share! (Review by Nicole Nithiyah, Deputy Editor)
Must-try items: Mandarin chicken rice; satay
How much: Starters from $13; mains from $20
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 3.30pm & 5.30pm to 9.30pm
Address: #02-207, Weave, Resorts World Sentosa, 26 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098138
Visit Chatterbox Cafe Chatterbox Cafe’s dinner menu
New restaurant: Revolution
Do you miss RVLT? Well, not all farewells are permanent. The creators behind the iconic wine bar have returned with Revolution, a new restaurant where food leads the charge, with their signature wine proudly cheering from the sidelines.
We found ourselves walking through a seemingly nondescript industrial area and furniture store, Fritz Hansen. Stepping through the showroom, Revolution is nestled discreetly on your right.
Intrigued by the unusual location, we asked co-founder Alvin Gho about it. He told us the biggest draw was the partnership with the furniture brand, which also came with a fraction of their old rent and all the sleek furniture and lighting as a gift.
The name of the game here is breaking the rules, a celebration of comfort food with exciting, innovative twists. We started with the Japanese-style signature chicken nuggets ($20), with cartilage for a delightful crunch. The accompanying fermented tomato and sriracha sauce offered a nice tangy kick, though we might add caviar (additional $138) for an extra layer of luxury next time!
A standout dish is the chicken rendang ravioli ($19.80) with chicken mousse filling, rich rempah and crispy bits, making this a thoughtful and delicious dish. It reminded us of a gourmet otah, and we couldn’t get enough of the fragrant coconut rendang sauce that perfectly coated every ravioli.
For dessert, the pandan madeleines ($3 per piece) were little pockets of delightful flavour, though we wished for a bigger portion. The gula melaka parfait stroopwafel ($6) was interesting, but a stronger gula melaka flavour would have made them even better.
While there’s no official launch date for dinner yet, you can WhatsApp them for a reservation. (Review by Nicole Nithiyah, Deputy Editor)
Must-try items: Chicken rendang ravioli; signature chicken nuggets
How much: Sides from $8; Pasta and mains from $19.80
Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 11am to 5pm; Dinner, Thursdays to Saturdays, 6pm to 12am (coming soon)
Address: Revolution, #01-05, 211 Henderson Road, Singapore 159552
Visit Revolution Revolution’s menu
New menu: Torno Subito
There are plenty of Italian restaurants in Singapore, but if you’re looking for a fun and vibey spot, Torno Subito is the place to be. We love how vibrant the space is, from the splashes of colour and quirky decor to the rows of fancy cars displayed at the front of the restaurant. Our favourite spot? The restroom, which looks like the bathing boxes at Melbourne’s Brighton Beach.
The refreshed menu takes Italian indulgence to a fever pitch, with various dishes highlighting the restaurant’s signature whimsy and techniques. We kicked off our meal with the alta marea ($98), a curated selection of raw and cured seafood which can feed two people. While we’re not particularly fond of the dish, we reckon those who are into seafood might get a kick out of it.
We reserve our highest praise for the Modena ribs ($68), presented like a work of art. The slow-cooked wagyu beef ribs were melt-in-your-mouth fantastic and easily fell off when we sank our utensils into them. While the vegetable sauce and dark cherry vinegar provided the slightly tangy flavours the dish needs, so it doesn’t become too one-dimensional.
What else should you order? The pasta and pizza, of course – that goes without saying. We highly recommend the tortellino (miniature stuffed pasta in parmigiano reggiano sauce, $48), tagliatella ($48), and the caprese (from $32) for your table.
Oh, and you most definitely shouldn’t pass up on desserts! The Tiramisubito is a clear winner on this front, with its decadent mix of coffee, mascarpone, and cacao. “One of the best tiramisus we’ve tried” might be a bold claim, but we speak the truth.
Must-try dishes: Modena ribs; tortellino; tagliatella; caprese pizza; Tiramisubito
How much: Tasting menu at $188; lunch set at $68; a la carte from $22
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 3pm & 5.30pm to 10pm
Address: #01-02, 26 Dempsey Road, Singapore 249918
Visit Torno Subito Torno Subito’s menus
New menu: Restaurant Air
One year on, this Dempsey Hill powerhouse is growing from strength to strength. The restaurant has gone through a slight overhaul and risen again, this time with a fresh culinary identity. It’s still the same Air, just with a new local team coming together to present a menu that’s a love letter to Asian cuisine with modern twists.
Do your meal right by starting with the purple potato flatbread ($16). The first bite sealed the deal – earthy, chewy, and tangy. Don’t forget to spread the accompanying mushroom “XO” butter for added flavour! You can also consider getting the tiger bakar prawns ($38), which come with pomelo and puffed rice. We enjoyed the contrast of textures and flavours: juicy and nicely charred, crunchy and zesty.
Mains-wise, you won’t go wrong with the glazed duck breast with coriander ($48). Don’t worry about gameyness – the meat is nicely charred and absorbs the kecap manis, so you’re only tasting a smoky, sweet-savoury tang. Be sure to dip the cuts into the sambal ijo for some fiery kick. Another must-order is the Air fries ($14), which are basically wedges but better. The potatoes have been lactic-fermented for almost a week, resulting in a deeper tang.
Up for desserts? You’re spoiled for choice here. We tasted a few options, and the one that left the strongest impression was the passionfruit granita ($15). It’s sweet yet tangy, and a refreshing end to a very delectable meal. Air has outdone itself, yet again.
Must-try dishes: Purple potato flatbread; glazed duck breast with coriander; Air fries; passionfruit granita
How much: Breakfast bundle at $68; lunch set menu from $58 per pax; dinner from $88 per pax
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 11pm
Address: 25B Dempsey Road, Singapore 249918
Visit Restaurant Air Restaurant Air’s menus
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: August 2025
New restaurant: Gwangjang Gaon
So you’re at Jewel Changi Airport and craving Korean food. Eotteoke (“how” in Korean)? Head to level two and walk into Gwangjang Gaon, which boasts two flagship outlets in South Korea and counts celebrities like Squid Game’s Lee Jung Jae as fans.
Unlike other Korean restaurants in Singapore, Gwangjang Gaon is all about traditional Korean food. Feast on dishes like chogye-nangche ($18.90), a cold chicken salad with vinegar and mustard dressing, and the classic bibimbap ($22.90), a staple in every Korean restaurant.
We have a few favourites from the menu that we’re still thinking about today. First, modm-jeon ($29.90), an assorted Korean pancake platter perfect for sharing among your dining group. We say polish the zucchinis first before moving on to the rest. The thin fritters aren’t overly fried and absorb the soy-vinegar sauce well.
Our top choice is reserved for the Gaon galbi ($69.90) – premium short ribs marinated with over 20 herbs and ingredients before being sous vide for over a day and lightly torched. The flavourful meat is fall-off-the-bone tender; after the first bite, you won’t be able to resist the entire hojokban (traditional Korean wooden tray).
The traditional aspect also extends to the decor, with warm rustic wood furniture and private booths that’ll look like you’ve somehow escaped to South Korea… with the famous Jewel waterfall in the background.
Must-try items: Modm-Jeon; Gaon galbi
How much: Food from $16.90; drinks from $4.50
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: #02-243, Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819666
Visit Gwangjang Gaon Gwangjang Gaon’s menu
New restaurant: Leila
Stepping into Leila is like entering a culinary enthusiast friend’s sophisticated home, where you’re welcome to lounge on plush sofa-like seats or gather around the dining table. The new Middle Eastern-Balkan gastro-bar is only open for dinner, so you can immerse yourself in those dimly lit vibes.
Its kitchen is tiny, but these folks are serious about their craft. Drawing from chef Moran Aharon’s expertise in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean traditions, the small plates are perfect for sharing.
Start with kubana bread ($15), a warm, fluffy, buttery Yemeni brioche that we devoured plain. Okay, it’s also served with tahini and tomato paste to liven it up, but the bread easily stands on its own. For more carby delights, the Balkan anchovy bruschetta ($21) places salt-cured anchovies with roasted eggplant cream on crisp challah toast. If you’ve got a drink in hand, the crunchy aries cigar ($24), aka deep-fried spring rolls with minced beef, will be an excellent companion.
The mains aren’t served in big portions, so you can order a couple for the table. We loved the Tripoli freekeh fish ($35), which pairs juicy fish fillet in tangy tomato sauce with freekeh, a chewy, nutty grain. Got kubana bread left over? Order manseed ($35) to mop up the creamy hummus studded with minced chicken chunks, spicy harissa, and pine nuts.
For dessert, knafe ($21) is Leila’s interpretation of the classic Middle Eastern dessert featuring crispy kataifi pastry, stretchy mozzarella, pistachios, and ice cream. P.S. girlies, look forward to free-flow prosecco on Wednesdays ‘cos it’s Ladies’ Night! (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try dishes: Balkan anchovy bruschetta; kubana bread; Tripoli freekeh fish
How much: Starters from $13; mains from $23
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 6pm to late
Address: 12 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088387
New restaurant: Il Giardino
Who’s still not sick of Italian food at this point? Good, ‘cos we’ve got another restaurant for you to check out. Il Giardino has taken over The Garage’s second floor, previously occupied by Au Balcon. Look forward to cicchetti-style dining that’s perfect for groups.
Il Giardino retains the previous restaurant’s interior with fresh touches to make it feel brand new. We recommend grabbing a table by the window for a view of the greenery. Plus, it’s a good spot for photos if you’re here in the day. If you’re all about the vibes, the breezy terrace is a better option.
We were blown away by the dishes, which draw inspiration from all over Italy. Panzanella Singapura ($16) is an awesome starter: tangy and nutty, thanks to the green mango, cashew nuts, and smoked tamarind vinaigrette. But if you’re only in the mood for one small plate, we highly recommend the hand-cut pressed potatoes ($16). It’s like a savoury kueh lapis, with thinly sliced tubers peppered with scallion and kelp.
We were pleasantly surprised by the slow-cooked Venetian octopus (from $22). Served directly from a large pot, the octopus has a tender chew to it. The extra virgin olive oil lends a decadent touch to the dish. For pasta, you can do no wrong with the spaghetti alla vongole (from $19) or the porcini and ricotta cheese ravioli (from $16). We liked how the ravioli melted in our mouths the minute we popped it in.
For dessert, nothing beats an affogato ($14). There’s a cute show and tell when it was presented to our table, drawing oohs and ahhs when the Valrhona chocolate sauce started melting into the cup from the hot espresso. The caffeine is a little strong, so you’ve been warned.
Must-try items: Il Giardino hand-cut pressed potatoes; slow-cooked Venetian octopus
How much: From $12
Opening hours: Wednesday to Fridays, 6pm to 10pm and weekends, 5pm to 10pm
Address: Level 2, The Garage, Singapore Botanic Gardens, 50 Cluny Park Road, Singapore 257488
Visit Il Giardino Il Giardino’s menus
New location: Papi’s Tacos
Ola, papi! With a fourth outlet in Jalan Besar, chef Jose Mauricio Espinoza Lara (aka chef Papi) knows the city has fallen in love with his brand of Mexican street food. Already packed when we visited on a Monday evening, the casual space is inspired by the beloved Pixar movie, Coco, complete with a vibrant mural centrepiece and neon lights.
We implore you to come with a group, because you won’t be able to resist stuffing yourself. We started with Papi’s nachos ($23), a dish that chef tells us he resisted adding to the menu for years because it’s not authentically Mexican. Well, the people asked, he finally gave in, and the world is better for it. His addictive version is a gigantic (we kid you not) bowl of fried tortilla chips, housemade cheese sauce, black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, and more. We couldn’t stop snacking on these crunchy chips!
If veggies are a must, the grilled cactus and broccolini salad ($20) is your only option. We fought over the nicely charred broccolini, while the cactus reminded us a little of bell peppers and may be more of an acquired taste. For quesadillas, we recommend the grilled chorizo ($20), a spicy snack topped with chipotle aioli.
But the true standout? Those quesabirria tacos ($28) packed with smoky beef brisket and cheese. Dip yours into the smoked chili broth or sour cream, top off the bite with tangy pickled onions, and bliss out. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try dishes: Quesabirria tacos; grilled chorizo quesadilla; grilled cactus and broccolini salad
How much: Starters from $7; tacos from $14; burritos from $18, quesadillas from $16
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 2.30pm and Tuesdays to Saturdays, 5pm to 11pm
Address: 149 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207562
Visit Papi’s Tacos Jalan Besar Papi’s Tacos Jalan Besar’s menu
New location: Wild/Fire
We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to burgers in Singapore. But guess what? There’s a familiar brand returning to the scene, and we’re rejoicing. Welcome back, Wild/Fire! The burger joint is reborn, moving from its original Robertson Walk location to UE Square (facing Mohamed Sultan Road).
It’s more intimate compared to its previous space, but there’s an outdoor terrace where pet owners can bring their furry companions to hang out. P.S. check out the cool board facing the entrance, which highlights the current song playing in the restaurant. Love is an understatement – we’re beyond obsessed!
The menu is a mix of moreish burgers and new wood-fired grill items. Let’s be real – don’t let the photos fool you. These burgers are massive. We ordered The Bear ($20) and the hot honey butter chicken burger ($18), and honestly, we barely made it through the second. The chicken burger stole our hearts: that sweet-and-savoury combo hit just right, and the juicy patty sealed the deal. The chilli con carne in The Bear was *chef’s kiss*, but we wished it was a touch less oily.
Tip: order the umami fries ($8) to accompany your burgers! If you need a point of reference, imagine a certain fast food chain’s shaker fries… but elevated and better.
Despite feeling full, we still tried the bone-in short ribs ($33). Picture succulent grain-fed black angus hot off the grill. We took our time savouring each beefy piece, letting the smoky flavours dance in our mouths. This is a must-have dish for every table, we fear. Drinks-wise, go for a tall, cool glass of Wildfire lemonade ($8) to beat the heat and cut through all that richness.
Must-try items: Hot honey butter chicken; bone-in short ribs; umami fries; The Bear
How much: Burgers from $17; small plates from $13; wood-fired items from $26; drinks from $8
Opening hours: Sundays to Thursdays, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 10.30pm and Fridays & Saturdays, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 11pm
Address: #01-59, UE Square, 207 River Valley Road, Singapore 238275 (Entrance via Mohamed Sultan Road)
New location: Fi Woodfire Thai
Speaking of Robertson Walk, Fi Woodfire Thai has found a new home in Shaw Centre with an expanded menu and an open kitchen. But at its core, firm favourites like the signature moo ping rib ($48), French half poulet ($32), and basil minced pork on charred eggplant ($18) are available.
Among the new offerings, we were truly enamoured by the watermelon and fish floss ($14). We’re going to sound like a broken record, but sweet and savoury together? It’s an unbeatable combo. The Son-in Law eggs ($10 for three pieces) are an excellent follow-up. (There’s a hilarious story behind the dish’s name, but we won’t spoil it for you – ask the friendly staff to find out!) The eggs boast crispy edges and soft centres, while the strawberry tamarind sauce adds another dimension to the dish’s flavour profile.
The new space was buzzing with diners when we dropped by, but don’t worry, you won’t have to wait long to get a table. If you prefer a quieter ambience, we suggest swinging by after 2pm, when the lunch crowd has died down.
Must-try items: Watermelon and fish floss; Son-in-Law eggs; signature moo ping rib
How much: From $10
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 3pm & 5pm to 10pm
Address: #03-14/15, Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road, Singapore 228208
Visit Fi Woodfire Thai Fi Woodfire Thai’s menu
New menu: Fat Cow
Fat Cow, aka one of our picks for best restaurants in Singapore, has unveiled a fresh edition of its Shiki Omakase menu, showcasing fresh seasonal produce like sea bream, fatty tuna, and Okinawa tiger prawn. Hey… isn’t this a Japanese wagyu establishment? Yes, but we’re told chef Shingo wants to spotlight sushi in the restaurant, and this omakase menu is the perfect opportunity.
Available for lunch and dinner, this 12-course omakase introduces a line-up inspired by the summer season. Sushi is prepared with fragrant Hokkaido Nanatsuboshi rice and seasoned with chef Shingo’s blend of red vinegar. Kicking things off are seasonal vegetables and fish soup with sake, followed by sushi featuring Japanese seafood: sea bass, horse mackerel, sea bream, aburi conger eel, scallop, and shrimp. Our take? Clean flavours that are light on the palate.
It gets exciting when the medium fatty tuna makes an appearance. We love the mouthfeel – luscious, meaty, and juicy. It was over before we knew it, but thankfully, the fatty tuna let us enjoy the experience all over again. The penultimate course, mini chirashi sushi, is a who’s who of revered proteins. Kagoshima Akune gold A5 wagyu, chopped tuna, Hokkaido sea urchin, ikura, and caviar share space in a bowl. Remember the saying, “End things on a good note”? The chirashi was it for us.
Dessert features ice cream in rotating flavours, though we recommend swapping that out for the kakigori. It’s an additional $12, but the price is worth it for delicate shaved ice with mochi, azuki beans, and bouncy chocolate squares.
Must-try items: Chutoro; kuruma ebi; otoro; mini chirashi sushi
How much: From $88 per person
Opening hours: Sundays to Thursdays, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 10.30pm and Fridays & Saturdays, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 11pn
Address: #01-01/02, Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Boulevard, Singapore 248649
New menu: Fortuna
One year on, Fortuna still crackles with the same electrifying energy. It’s as cool and crowded now as it was when it opened, and the new menu is more reason to revisit.
We started with the light-as-air whipped ricotta dip drizzled with spicy honey ($12), and wiped the plate clean with fluffy chunks of piping hot wood-fired bread ($18). Don’t want to feel weighed down? Get the ricciola crudo ($22) made of smoked amberjack, spiced rockmelon salsa, and a refreshing apple basil dressing.
The frittatina di pasta ($15), pasta fritters covered with crisp cornflakes, has just the right amount of bechamel, garlic mayo, and chilli that’s not too cloying. If you have room for another pasta plate, the mafalde beef and pork ragu ($36) is tossed with torched smoked provolone for a cheesy touch.
Since pizzas are the star, you can’t turn down the fried and baked smoked margherita ($29) that delivers a great crunch with juicy, sweet San Marzano tomatoes in each bite. We can never resist tiramisu ($18) at an Italian restaurant, but if you want something new, try the almond-infused panna cotta ($18) topped with limoncello gel. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try dishes: Frittatina di pasta; mafalde ragu; smoked margherita pizza
How much: Starters from $12, pastas from $29, pizzas from $24
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 12pm to 3pm; Sundays to Thursdays, 5.30pm to 11.30pm; Fridays and Saturdays, 5.30pm to 11pm
Address: 7 Craig Road, Singapore 089667
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: July 2025
New restaurant: rumeL
Another month, another new pizza place opening in Singapore. But hey, we ain’t complaining! The biggest difference is that rumeL offers six-inch sourdough Neopolitan-style pies from only $5. Yes, we’re not pulling your leg. The pizza dough recipe is the brainchild of chef Silvo Gropelli, a pizzaiolo who’s been recognised in the Top 50 Pizza World and the top kahuna in the 50 Top Pizza Australia in 2024.
Who’s keen on a breakfast pizza? You can tuck into the exclusive kaya butter ($5, between 8am and 11am, $6.80 after 11am), an interesting creation made for Singapore. Enjoy the pizza as is, or order with a side of soft-boiled eggs and dip your slices into them for a true local experience. Otherwise, you can go for the crushed peanut butter or go for the chicken floss ($5 between 8am and 11am, $6.80 after 11am) if you want something more savoury in the morning.
Of course, there are other flavours you can sink your teeth into. Our fave is the hot honey cheese ($6.80 for 6-inch, $9.80 for 10-inch), a delicious combination of savoury cheese and sweet hot honey. We also couldn’t get enough of the carbonara ($8.80 for 6-inch, $11.80 for 10-inch), which has a runny egg in the centre. Those who need protein in their pies can get the Meat Lovers or the chicken pepperoni ($7.80 for 6-inch, $10.80 for 10-inch).
Pair your pizzas with sides like the mushroom soup ($3.80) and strawberry panna cotta ($3.80), or stick to the tried-and-tested coffee made from premium beans. You can also swap out the caffeine for matcha or sparkling tea options.
Must-try pizzas: Hot honey cheese; carbonara; Meat Lovers; kaya butter
How much: Pizzas from $5; drinks from $1.80
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 10pm
Address: #01-07, Bugis+, 201 Victoria Street, Singapore 188067
New restaurant: Cudo
Dreamed up by the folks behind Siri House and Moxie, Cudo is a warm and welcoming space hidden along Stanley Street. It’s one of those hidden restaurants you stumble upon and immediately want to tell everyone about. At only two months old, the restaurant is already making waves – it was completely packed when we visited. At the core of its food is group executive chef Steven Chou, who takes inspiration from his growing-up years in New York to give Latin American cuisine a modern, comforting spin. All that to say, it’s a lovely place for communal gatherings of friends and family.
Good conversation requires good food to elevate the dining experience, and Cudo doesn’t disappoint. To start, get your hands dirty with the crab and toasted sakura ebi version of warm queso with chips ($18), as well as Cudo Cado ($14), the restaurant’s rendition of guacamole served with crispy plantain chips.
But the torched truffadito ($25) was our favourite. Polished off in minutes, the plate of lightly charred Japanese yellowtail is paired with an ancho chilli truffle tiger’s milk dressing, giving it that punchy kick that played well with the pickled cucumber and radish. Don’t look down on the calabaza ($12) either. These thin slices of roasted Japanese pumpkin are beautifully spiced with a chipotle aioli that’s got a yuzu kosho infusion.
If you’re easily buoyed down by heavy meats, we suggest you go for the grilled seabass fillet ($33) that’s zesty and light, covered with a parsley lime sauce and fresh pineapple salsa. To keep the conversation going, order the toffee plantain ($15) and enjoy spoonfuls of plantain and banana sponge cake, banana mousse, and vanilla ice cream. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Torched truffadito, calabaza, grilled seabass fillet
How much: Dinner starters from $12, mains from $29
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 11.30am to 10.30pm and Fridays & Saturdays, 11.30am to 11.30pm
Address: 13 Stanley Street, Singapore 068732
New restaurant: The Plump Frenchman
The brainchild behind Zouk has launched The Plump Frenchman, a new French restaurant in the heart of Bugis. Here, diners can enjoy classic French comfort food presented in a quirky and creative flair. Parisians might baulk at the idea, surely, but the rest of us are more than excited about its offerings.
Start with the classic La Soupe A l’Oignon ($18), a deeply caramelised onion soup topped with golden crispy croutons and finished with a hint of black pepper. It looks deceptively simple, but we couldn’t stop slurping up the potage. If you want something more rounded, we recommend going for the coq au vin ($37), a rich braised chicken stew made with red wine, mushrooms, bacon, and carrots.
We also can’t get enough of the Demi Poulet Rotisserie ($17), which has been slow-cooked to perfection and served with fresh mesclun salad, sriracha sauce, and house-made pickles. The pairing of the chicken and the sauce is a match made in rotisserie heaven.
End your meal on a sweet note with the tiramisu au citron ($11). Fun fact: chef Lorenz Hoja, Zouk Group’s chief culinary officer, doesn’t like coffee, which is why he used lemons. Picture delicate ladyfingers soaked in lemon syrup and nestled between layers of mascarpone cream. A unique take on a classic Italian dessert.
Must-try items: La Soupe A l’Oignon; Demi Poulet Rotisserie; tiramisu au citron
How much: Mains from $17; desserts from $11; drinks from $7
Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 11.30am to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10pm and Sundays, 11.30am to 3pm
Address: #01-20, Guoco Midtown II, 20 Tan Quee Lan Street, Singapore 188107
New restaurant pop-up: Nonette
From Singapore to Paris and back for a pop-up, popular sandwich deli Nonette brings its banh mi creations to the club. And oddly enough, it’s a pretty perfect pairing. We dropped by on the second day of its launch at bar-club Rasa Space and vibed to funky DJ beats while surrounded by the coolest cats of Raffles Place. It’s running from now till October, with plans to rejig the menu every now and then, so don’t miss out.
For those who aren’t in the know, Nonette is helmed by Singaporean Pearlyn Lee. Warm and friendly, her passion for food with a French-Asian touch is palpable, and it comes through in the dishes. Each banh mi is toasted to golden perfection, stuffed with crunchy, tangy housemade pickles, and topped off with aromatic herbs.
The meaty jambon beurre ($12) is lovingly housemade with three types of charcuterie – char siu, Vietnamese mortadella, and jambon – alongside pate and French butter. Meanwhile, the Vietnamese fried chicken ($12) gives a fiery punch with its spiced meat and housemade sriracha mayo. We’d recommend you dine with a partner and get one each to share!
The baguettes are a tad smaller than usual, but you won’t feel the difference if you get the Apero Box ($19), which includes one donut and two eclairs. The chilli oil chantilly donut ($4) is a sweet-savoury indulgence with a slight kick, while the kaya donut ($4) is a creamy classic. Eclairs ($4) come in flavours like the earthy, nutty black sesame and the whipped mung bean-filled tau suan, which brings you right back to your favourite hawker dessert stall. P.S. Rasa Space hosts all kinds of edgy events, so stick around to keep the party going! (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Jambon beurre banh mi, chilli oil chantilly donut, tau suan eclair
How much: $12 for banh mi, desserts from $4
Opening hours: (Until 4 October 2025) Wednesdays, 5pm to 10pm, Thursdays and Fridays, 5pm to 1am, Saturdays, 8pm to 1am
Address: #02-01/02, Republic Plaza, 9 Raffles Place, Singapore 048619
New outlet: Feng Sheng Kampong Chicken Rice & Steamboat
Tucking into chicken rice and steamboat at all hours of the day is not a new concept, but this local brand ensures it goes above and beyond in delivering top-notch food and services to hungry foodies and night owls. Feng Sheng has opened a second 24-hour outlet in the East, so folks don’t have to travel far for hearty meals and comforting dishes.
Enjoy a delicious plate of signature chicken rice ($6), featuring steamed and roasted free-range chicken. Each serving comes with a layer of garlic-infused oil, crispy garlic bits, and housemade ginger dressing. The perfect companion to chicken rice is the truffle minced pork tofu ($16), a taste of luxury and comfort all in one.
Those hankering for a hot yet satisfying dish can go for the classic steamboat set ($58.80), which is chock-full of ingredients including pork belly, fresh lala clams, abalone, green mussels, fresh prawns, and more. Choose between five soup bases for a meal that’ll keep you on your toes. If you’re craving the best of both worlds, we say indulge in the steamboat and chicken combo (from $68.80).
Who’s up for something new? The Ipoh chicken hor fun ($8.50) is calling out to you. Otherwise, you can go for the pork lard dry noodles ($5) or the seafood lala noodles ($9.80). Finish your meal with some lovely Portuguese egg tarts ($2.40 each) and you’re good to go.
Must-try items: Steamboat and chicken combo; truffle minced pork tofu; seafood lala noodles
How much: From $5
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours
Address: 372 East Coast Road, Singapore 428982
Visit Feng Sheng Kampong Chicken Rice & Steamboat
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: June 2025
New restaurant: Pizza Studio Tamaki
Most people associate pizza with Italians. But this new pizzeria in Singapore deviates from the norm by giving the Neapolitan comfort food a Tokyo twist. Say hello to Pizza Studio Tamaki (PST), which has taken over the former Tippling Club at Tanjong Pagar Road. Now you don’t have to travel to Japan’s capital to feast on this cult favourite.
PST’s pizzas are known (and loved) for their light, chewy texture and puffed, charred crust. The secret lies in the dough, made with a blend of American and Canadian flours, and seasoning the oven with Okinawan salt before baking. As first-timers to the brand, the salt initially surprised us. But after a few slices, it felt like a natural component. P.S. give the staff a heads up if you’re not feeling the salt or charred crust.
Love a good spicy kick like us? We highly recommend getting the arriabata ($30), comprising pork nduja, Italian datterini tomatoes and parsley, fresh mozzarella, Aomori garlic, black pepper, and chilli padi flakes. Those who prefer cheese-based pizzas will thoroughly enjoy the Bismarck ($32), which comes with a Hinata egg that adds depth to the dish.
Another must-try: meatballs in tomato sauce ($18). The meatballs have a great bite and absorb the sauce without turning mushy. The desserts weren’t doing it for us, but if you must have something sweet, go for the vanilla ice cream with Okinawan sea salt and extra virgin olive oil ($9.80).
Must-try items: Arriabata; Bismarck; 5 formaggi; meatballs in tomato sauce
How much: Pizzas from $22
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 3pm & 5pm to 11pm
Address: 38 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088461
New restaurant: Burgs
You know what they say – you either go Burgs or go home. This local burger joint is back on the scene with a new standalone dining spot at Arab Street. The improved buns come with a new signature sauce and homemade pickled green chillies.
Get reacquainted with the brand by putting your money down on The Original ($11.90), Burgs’ take on the classic cheeseburger. Or, you can go for the Bae Con ($13.90), throwing crispy turkey bacon into the mix and replacing the signature sauce with homemade barbecue. Prefer a different kind of protein? The Big Bird ($11.90) and Fish & Chips ($13.90) are available on the menu, too.
Of course, sinking your teeth into just a burger isn’t enough. If you’re not getting the full meal (that’ll set you back an additional $3.90), there are some sides you must order. We’re told the Nuggies (from $4.80) are made from real chicken chunks and come with ranch, curry, spicy nacho cheese, or kecap manis sauces. Don’t forget the banana and peanut butter pie ($3.90) for a sweet and crispy finish!
Must-try items: The Bae Con; Nuggies; banana and peanut butter pie
How much: Burgers from $11.90; sides from $4.80
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm (open till 1am on Thursdays to Saturdays)
Address: 16 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199437
New restaurant: Vincenzo Capuano
If 2024 bore witness to the Italian restaurant boom in Singapore, this year sees more pizzerias popping up across the island. The first major player to land here is Vincenzo Capuano, aka the man with the golden scissors. Gourmands can look forward to slices of his thin pizzas, which ranked 12th on last year’s Top 50 World Artisan Pizza Chains list.
The menu is pretty extensive, but if it’s your first time dining, you must chow down on the provola e pepe ($28), aka chef Vincenzo’s favourite. And if you ask us, we say go for the tetti illmunati ($28). Picture ecorino romano flakes, pistachio grains, cream, basil and mortadella, all on a flor di latte base. The best part involves the restaurant’s famed gold scissors, where you snip the top of the pizzas before cutting yourself a slice.
Pizzas aren’t the only things you can get here. We spotted other Italian quintessentials like pasta, lasagna, parmigiana, and tiramisu. The cavolo ($24) is a sweet and crunchy salad that’ll leave you wanting more, and you can’t go wrong with the burrata classica ($26). Want more carbs? The guanciale di mazo ($30) is a good option to feast on.
Must-try items: Tetti illuminati; guanciale di manzo; cavolo; burrata classica
How much: Food and drinks from $7
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 11pm
Address: #01-12, The Pier at Robertson, 80 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 239013
Visit Vincenzo Capuano Vincenzo Capuano’s menu
New restaurant: Belimbing
Can Singaporean food be fancy? Well, that’s what Belimbing aims to do. (Its name refers to a tart, green fruit related to starfruit, which can be eaten raw and is typically used in savoury preparations.) Helmed by chef Marcus Leow, who has spent time at renowned establishments like Iggy’s and Whitegrass, the restaurant aims to stretch local flavours to their limits.
The menu (from $58) features inventive dishes such as aged kanpachi paired with pickled guava and mussels, and smoked wagyu ox tongue complemented by a vibrant chinchalok sauce. We devoured the grilled firefly squid, which reimagines the classic rojak by incorporating kailan, haegor caramel, and strawberries. Another favourite of ours is the braised angus oxtail, which reminded us of sup buntut but in an elegant presentation.
It’s not a truly Singaporean meal without rice, and the wok-fried nasi ulam is a dish we recommend trying. The rice is fragrant, while the pomfret (the fish is seasonal, depending on what’s available at the market) is perfectly cooked.
When it comes to desserts, a truly Asian compliment is declaring they’re “not too sweet”. Belimbing’s rendition of the min jiang kueh is soft and chewy, filled with cempedak cream and peanuts that are equally salty and nutty. What surprised us the most was the pumpkin bingka. It balances savoury and sweet incredibly well, and is the perfect end to the course menu. (Review by Ashe Liao, Lifestyle Writer)
Must-try dishes: Wok-fried nasi ulam; fried chicken; clam custard; fried meesua
How much: Lunch course menu from $58; dinner course menu from $88; a la carte from $18
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Wednesdays, 6pm to 8pm, and Thursdays to Sundays, 12pm to 1.30pm & 6pm to 8pm
Address: 269A Beach Road, Singapore 199546
New restaurant: Meh’r by Inderpal
MasterChef Singapore fans have waited with bated breath for Inderpal Singh’s next big moves since snagging the coveted title in 2023. Well, y’all can breathe easy now, ‘cos the Season 4 winner has finally opened his inaugural restaurant.
Named after his daughter, Meh’r by Inderpal is a ‘fun dining’ spot where chef Inderpal presents contemporary spins on beloved Southeast Asian street food. The restaurant is in the thick of its KTM Express seasonal menu (from $138), inspired by a train ride that starts in Singapore and traverses through Malaysia and Thailand.
His famous creation (or rather, deconstruction) makes an appearance in the menu as Bak Bak Wings II. Diners tuck into a lollilop-style mid-wing stuffed with Hainanese chicken rice, accompanied by a filling chicken consomme. The star on the plate is – surprise, surprise – the banana chilli. Who would’ve thought a sweet, tropical fruit could transform into a spicy condiment? Only chef Inderpal’s brilliant mind. We couldn’t get enough!
Another standout is the lamb briyani. Wait, come back. You won’t taste any gameyness here! Chef Inderpal knows what you’re thinking, which is why he devised the ingenious plan of smoking the plate with cherry wood before serving. The result is a briyani simmering with flavours: sweet thanks to the pistachio, cranberry, and cherry wood, balanced by the savoury lamb rack, eggplant pachidi, and burnt cucumber.
Must-try items: Bak Bak Wings II; lamb briyani; Koh Phi Sang
How much: A la carte from $18; tasting menus from $138
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 11am to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.30pm
Address: #05-01, 42 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058676
Visit Meh’r by Inderpal Meh’r by Inderpal’s menu
New location: Zeniya Singapore
After almost two years at Shangri-La Singapore, Zeniya embarks on a new chapter, so we paid its Shaw Centre space a visit. Despite the change of address, the restaurant’s mission remains the same: to offer an authentic Kaga Kaiseki dining experience and uphold its Kanazawa flagship’s legacy.
Guests are invited to a kaiseki-style lunch and dinner menu comprising up to 10 courses, which means you gotta set aside at least two hours for the meal. Everything’s prepared with seasonal ingredients from Kanazawa and the surrounding regions – yes, even down to the water, filtered to bear the same semblance as the one from the city.
We popped by for a quiet lunch and were treated to various seafood and meat options, starting with the sakizuke. The yam stem, uni, and kegani crab go swimmingly together, with the yuzu zest lending a citrus touch to the opening dish. This is followed by the wanmori: amadai karrage with shredded ginger and menegi greens in clear broth. One sip calmed our minds and opened up our palates to the rest of the meal.
The tsukuri consisted of three different dishes, with our favourite being the straw-smoked katsuo topped with leek, garlic, mustard, and olive oil. We also liked the back-to-back combo of the shiizakana (awabi karaage served atop a bed of salt) and takiawase (wagyu beef with misansho, kamonasu eggplant, and tamamiso paste).
We were already spent when the kashi was served. But then again, who in their right mind would pass on traditional Japanese treats? It was a sweet end to the whole experience – 10/10 would do it again, even if it takes two hours out of our day.
Must-try items: Sakizuke; wanmori; tsukuri; shiizakana; takiawase; kashi
How much: Kaiseki-style menus from $188++
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 3pm & 6.30pm to 11pm
Address: #01-11, Shaw Centre, Scotts Road, Singapore 228208
New menu: The Butcher’s Wife
The Butcher’s Wife in Tiong Bahru is a great spot for Latin-Mediterranean dining. Part of the lively mix of Tiong Bahru restaurants, it’s got cool natural wines, house-brewed kombucha, a new menu, and a vibey setting that’s perfect for catch-ups with foodie friends. Start with the homemade dadinhos cubes ($14), crispy semolina cubes that are crunchy outside, soft inside, and the pão de queijo ($18), though we think it could use a bit more salt to bring out the cheese.
Small plates like the burnt heart of palm ($26) and Hokkaido scallop crudo ($29) are packed with bold, interesting flavours. The Wagyu Picanha tartare ($29) is served with fluffy garlic focaccia and is great for sharing. While the Sanchoku Wagyu picanha ($58) is juicy and topped with fresh salsa. The free-range pork tenderloin porchetta style ($42) is rich and flavourful, but the fresh mango-orange mousse on the side cuts through it perfectly.
Don’t skip dessert. The açai sorbet ($16) with airy banana mousse is refreshing, and the Toucinho-do-Céu ($18), a warm almond cake made with pork lard, is the ultimate sweet ending.
Must-try items: Sanchoku Wagyu Picanha, Feijoada
How much: Snacks and sides from $14; mains from $34
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Fridays, 12pm to 3pm; 6pm to 11pm; Saturdays, 11.30am to 3pm; 6pm to 11pm; Sundays, 11.30am to 3pm; 6pm to 10.30pm, closed on Mondays
Address: 19 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168650
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: May 2025
New restaurant: American Mass Hall
Even though the CBD is brimming with food options, that doesn’t mean we can’t have more choices to mull over. American Mass Hall is the new kid on the block, a stone’s throw from Tanjong Pagar MRT station. This new restaurant heralds the return of chef Heman Tan, who previously headed the kitchen at Moonbow. As its name suggests, the establishment taps into the chef’s expertise in American cuisine, intertwined with familiar Asian flavours. P.S. don’t be intimidated by the extensive menu, ‘cos here’s what we liked.
Start your meal with French onion soup ($9). It may look deceptively simple, but the heartwarming flavours set the stage for the rest of your culinary adventure. Follow that up with the Hush Puppy Corn Ball ($8); the interesting name is a nod to when Southern cooks created this dish to quieten barking dogs. The accompanying spicy mayo sauce provides the kick needed to elevate each bite.
We also enjoyed the chilli crab mac and cheese ($18), a lovingly local interpretation of an American staple. The spicy chilli crab holds its own against the generous cheese, and you get pieces of crab meat among the macaroni. For mains, get ready to be wowed by the tender Angus beef short ribs ($30). During our visit, chef Heman personally served the smoked dish to our table.
Of course, you can’t have a hearty meal without desserts. If you love apple crumble, American Mass Hall offers a deconstructed version ($9) that’s syrupy and crumbly, and will remind you of the fall season. Prefer something localised? The creme brulee cempedak ($10) is a fascinating option – but we gotta warn you, the strong cempedak flavour takes some time to get used to.
Must-try items: French onion soup; chilli crab mac and cheese; deconstructed apple crumble
How much: From $4.50
Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 11am to 10pm
Address: #01-01, Lumiere, 2 Mistri Road, Singapore 079624
New brunch spot: Bonjour Ma Cuisine
How does starting the day with a French brunch sound? Step right up to Bonjour Ma Cuisine, which shares the same space as the Michelin-starred gastro wine bar at Tanjong Pagar. Don’t worry, you won’t be paying exorbitant prices. The most expensive dish costs almost $50, but there are plenty of (affordable) options to choose from.
Our fave from the menu is the croque madame truffle ($28.80). It’s got crispy sourdough toast, cheese, truffle, and a sunny side up on top, so if you’re getting this, don’t share it! Those looking for a culinary adventure can order the quenelle de brochet sauce nantua (fish quenelle in crustacean sauce, $20.80); otherwise, stay safe and go for the linguine au parmesan ($14.80). The hues will initially draw you in, while the taste will impress you later.
Desserts are a must, and we recommend having the pain perdu kaya ou creme anglaise (kaya French toast with creme anglaise, $14.50). It doesn’t look like your typical French toast, but after the first bite, you’ll forget all about the look and appreciate the flavours. Kaya and cream are a delicious pairing, so bonus points to Bonjour Ma Cuisine for presenting this combo.
Must-try items: Croque madame truffle; linguine au parmesan; pain perdu kaya ou creme anglaise
How much: Food from $6.80; beverages from $4.80
Opening hours: Weekdays, 8am to 2.30pm
Address: 39 Craig Road, Singapore 089677
New restaurant: Chef’s Tavern
After a successful ten-year run at Tras Street, chef Stephan Zoisl bid farewell to his innovative restaurant, Chef’s Table, before re-emerging in our culinary scene with his latest venture. Chef’s Tavern at Craig Road brings together classic European cuisine with refined Japanese techniques, all within a casual setting where you can kick back, relax, and tuck into a warm dining experience.
Those who’ve dined at Chef’s Table will be happy to spot some familiar names in the menu, albeit with a few tweaks. The new spot also introduces fresh dishes that’ll have you licking the plates clean. We say go for the anchovy puff pastry ($12), featuring a golden, flaky pastry topped with creamy ricotta, savoury anchovies from Spain, and tangy olives.
How about something more substantial? The prawn and lobster ramen ($24) is a labour of love, prepared for over 24 hours with roasted lobster shells, tomato paste, and white wine. Don’t let the simple looks fool you!
Duck meat may not be for everyone, but if there’s one must-try main, we highly recommend the maple leaf duck breast ($32). You get a lot of the fowl here: duck leg and jus, coupled with onion cream, shallot crumble, and pickled pear onion. Who knows, it might just change your mind.
Must-try items: Maple leaf duck breast; prawn and lobster ramen; pina colada
How much: Set lunch from $28; a la carte from $8
Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 12pm to 11.3opm
Address: 20 Craig Road, Singapore 089692
Visit Chef’s Tavern Chef’s Tavern menus
New restaurant: Malayan Settlement
Would you believe there’s a Muslim-friendly restaurant in Clarke Quay? Yes, it’s true. Meet Malayan Settlement, a fancy new spot from the brains behind The Malayan Council. The brand’s recognisable interior design trademarks are all here: earthy tones, rattan furniture, soft ambient lighting, and cosy vibes. It’s a stark contrast from other restaurants in the vicinity, and we dig it. There are also outdoor seats for those who prefer fresh air with their food.
The menu presents the best of The Malayan Council’s offerings along with new contemporary creations boasting robust Malay flavours. One example is the nasi lemak risotto ($32), which refines the Italian dish to suit our local palettes. It’s an interesting take – nasi lemak shouldn’t be this mushy! – but once you get past it, you’ll applaud the restaurant for daring to do something different. Not willing to take the risk? Stick to safe options like smoked duck lemak chilli padi ($32), steak and mash ($42), or Malayan laksa ($28).
Fans of The Malayan Council should know about the establishment’s renowned classic ondeh cake. Malayan Settlement takes it up several notches with its Ondeh One For Me ($24) milkshake. It’s pandan overload, featuring pandan coconut shake, pandan cream frosted rim, and pandan pastry. Only get this if you have enough stomach space!
Must-try items: Nasi lemak risotto; Ondeh One For Me
How much: Food from $4; drinks from $6
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 11am to 11pm, Fridays, 11am to 1am, Saturdays, 9am to 1am, and Sundays, 9am to 11pm
Address: #01-03, Blk B, 3 River Valley Road, Singapore 179024
Visit Malayan Settlement Malayan Settlement’s menu
New restaurant: Ka-Mon
Sentosa‘s rise from the ashes continues with the arrival of Ka-Mon, a new restaurant located beside Sugarra. The 80-seater features gorgeous natural wood tones, bamboo accents, and soft lighting – all the important interior design ideas you’d want for your home. Ka-Mon prides itself on showcasing three Japanese grilling techniques, which diners can witness through the open kitchen.
Where do we start with the menu? The wagyu beef tartare ($26) deftly blends various Asian touches into one offering, where the chopped meat is delectably seasoned with soy, garlic, sesame, and gochujang, topped with a quail egg yolk, and served with crispy papadam.
Another dish that highlights Ka-Mon’s modus operandi is the jumbo tiger prawn ($10). The skewers are slow-cooked over charcoal to perfection before being enhanced with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon.
If you want more charred goodness, you gotta add the Kagoshima A4 wagyu beef striploin ($98) to your order. Is it a little pricey? Yes, but once you pop one slice into your mouth, you’ll want to slowly savour the rest and make it worth your money.
Must-try items: Wagyu beef tartare; jumbo tiger prawn; Kagoshima A4 wagyu beef striploin
How much: Set lunch at $38++ per person; a la carte from $12
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 11pm
Address: Level One, Hotel Michael, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: April 2025
New restaurant: Mare Hachikyo
The first time I properly stepped into Palais Renaissance was for a date night at PS.Cafe. I didn’t pay much attention to the other tenants; it was purely enter, dinner, out. So when I heard about Mare Hachikyo setting up its first overseas outpost at this mall, I decided to pop over for some Japanese food and get acquainted with the complex.
Sorry, let me be specific: it’s Japanese food that showcases the heart of Hokkaido. Here, everything is high-quality and shipped from the prefecture every two days. Imagine sumptuous seafood, exquisite greens, and prime meats, all in your mouth. Thanks to Mare Hachikyo’s nine-course kappo-style omakase menu ($228++), I managed to taste all that, which made me miss Japan even more (the last time I visited the country was back in 2018).
“This is going to be a good meal,” I thought to myself after polishing the first dish of the night, the signature Hokkaido temaki. Japanese seaweed envelopes Yumeripika rice, hairy crab, ikura, and fresh uni. I’ve passed away and gone to heaven. The seasonal sashimi was standard fare to me, but the following dish, awaki and amaebi white miso gratin, was mind-blowingly delectable. Everything falls into place perfectly: the abalone blanched in kombu dashi and the pan-fried sweet shrimp, which are mixed with a belchamel sauce and topped with Hokkaido cheddar cheese.
The Japanese hospitality is prevalent at Mare Hachikyo, from the team’s warm welcome when I arrived, to when the meal reaches its penultimate item, the signature donabe. You get to enjoy the dish in three ways: on its own with seasonal seafood, with rice and warm dashi as an ochazuke, and with premium ikura. During the latter, you can indicate beforehand how many spoonfuls you want, or let them know during the high-spirited cheers. A joyful, amusing crescendo to a delightful meal.
Must-try items: Seasonal omakase menu (refreshes every six weeks)
How much: Dinner at $228++; set lunch from $68++
Opening hours: Monday to Saturdays, 12.30pm to 3pm & 7pm to 10pm
Address: #01-07, Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Road, Singapore 238871
Visit Mare Hachikyo Mare Hachikyo’s menu
New restaurant: Station by Kotuwa
Fun, fresh, and fantastic, Station by Kotuwa is the latest iteration of chef Rishi Naleendra’s Boon Tat Street space. Avid fans will remember it as the former addresses of Cheek By Jowl, Cheek Bistro, and Fool Wine Bar. Now, inspired by the bustling railway hub in chef’s hometown of Colombo, Sri Lanka, the restaurant is a vibrant dining experience great for chic date nights and buzzy communal gatherings.
If you’ve been following chef Rishi’s journey, you’ll spot some familiar yet new dishes on the menu, including crispy tripe with smoked chilli and lime ($7) and Kaliya chicken liver with egg roti ($14). The former is a lip-smacking spiced snack I’d happily graze on anytime, while the latter was, hands down, the favourite at my table.
Moving on to the mains, the roasted half chicken with deviled butter and red onions ($34) levelled up the dish with a rich Sri Lankan curry gravy. And the braised beef cheek ($36)? Impeccably tender and flavoured up with a beautiful coconut gravy. Vegetarians, you’re not left out here either. The cauliflower dish ($22) is gorgeously grilled and slathered in kiri hodi, a fragrant coconut milk curry infused with fenugreek, pandan leaf, green chilli and other spices, making this spot a contender for any nice vegetarian restaurant list.
Desserts fall on the sweet side with falooda ($12), made of rose syrup, evaporated and condensed milk, red agar jelly, nata de coco, basil seeds, sago, and rice vermicelli; and the Valrhona chocolate biscuit pudding ($14) with biscuits soaked in milk and arrack.
For the ultimate dining experience – and to help with choice paralysis – opt for the Station Feast ($68 per person). It’s a sharing menu that includes a curated spread of snacks, starters, mains, sides and desserts. Perfect for an indulgent night out paired with cocktails, arrack and wines. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Kaliya chicken liver; braised beef cheek
How much: Mains from $22++; drinks from $8++
Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm; Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm onwards (last order 9.30pm)
Address: 21 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069620
Visit Station by Kotuwa Station by Kotuwa’s menu
New restaurant: Sugarra
Is it just me, or is Sentosa finally get its much-needed second wind? From the arrival of Minion Land and the unveiling of a new lifestyle sector later this year to Tanjong Beach Club’s much-anticipated return (my editor’s review of that below), it’s pulling out all the stops to make everyone love the island life again. A new face that has joined Sentosa’s ranks is Sugarra, which borrows its name from the Basque word for flame.
Sugarra’s menu is inspired by chef Altor Jeronimo Orive’s Spanish heritage and culinary journey. The celebration of classic Basque and Spanish flavours begins with a medley of eight tapas, presented in a garden of flowers. A standout is the tartare de vaca vieja, a delicious combination of silky smooth hand-cut beef tartare served with egg yolk confit between flat bread pane de carasau. I’m still thinking about it as I write this review.
Beef makes an appearance again in the Txuleta. This time, vintage crossbred meat is charcoal grilled till smoky perfection and served with piquillo pepper gel, beef jus, and garlic mousseline. Divine! Of course, it’s not just land animals that are available here. Flavours of the sea are prominent in Invierno, featuring hake fish kokotxas delicately seasoned with garlic to enhance the natural flavours. The grilled fish is accompanied by sea urchin, parsnip, baby turnip, and salsa verde.
Two palate cleansers mark the end of the meal: a bergamot sorbet made with freeze-dried yogurt and dustings of kaffir lime powder, and a gorgeous coconut dessert. The refined space further enhances the dining experience. Who would’ve thought green and gold go well together?
Must-try items: Invierno; Txuleta; Yogurt Y Bergamota; Coco
How much: Tasting menus from $148++ per person
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays, 6pm to 11pm
Address: Level One, Hotel Michael, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
New restaurant: Bon Broth
Question: would you pay over $100 for a pot of broth? Most people will balk at the price. “So expensive!” – I can just hear those shrieks now. But what if I were to tell you it’s by celebrated chef Andre Chiang? The enfant terrible of our culinary scene returns to our shores once again, this time with a hotpot concept featuring eight curated broths. Continue reading if you’re not convinced…
At Bon Broth, diners can enjoy individual hotpots, which are cooked from scratch upon order. Chef Andre likens it to preparing a fine French sauce. The process begins with a fresh mirepoix base being gently sauteed before it’s infused with the chef’s signature spice paste. (I’m guessing this is what makes it so pricey?) The mixture is then deglazed with French-style soup made fresh daily. What you’re left with is a rich, nourishing broth with marrow, collagen, herbs, spices, and condiments.
As mentioned earlier, there are eight flavours to choose from. The signature Sichuan green pepper is balanced by Taiwanese pickled chilli, delivering a delicate combo of mild sweetness and numbing spiciness. If you want something more local, the laksa is your best bet. Go for the herbal broth if you want lighter, more nourishing soups. Now, who’s ready to raise their spoons and slurp?
Must-try flavours: Signature green pepper; satay; laksa; herbal
How much: Set menu from $110
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: #03-01, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
New menu: Tanjong Beach Club
Is this a scene from The White Lotus? Not quite – it’s Tanjong Beach Club’s fresh new look. After a four-month revamp, this iconic beachside hangout has returned, bringing a splash of mid-century modern flair to Sentosa’s Tanjong Beach. Gone are the old neutral and yellow tones – now replaced with warm hues of terracotta, burnt orange, and vibrant red. The updated space is sleek and more intuitive, offering distinct areas for lounging, dining, and soaking up the sun.
Beach clubs aren’t typically known for top-tier dining, but Tanjong Beach Club is raising the bar with a new menu helmed by head chef Mong Zhen Yew. Drawing on his experience with wood-fired cooking, chef Mong presents a coastal-inspired menu that’s big on flavour and ideal for sharing. Expect elevated starters, raw seafood, mains, and desserts – all curated with a relaxed, communal vibe in mind.
As a certified beach bum who’s (beach) club hopped across the island, I was genuinely impressed. The smell of garlic hits me first as the grilled seasonal oysters arrive ($27 for three; $52 for six), smothered in rich garlic butter. But the real star? The wood-fired half chicken ($78), finished with a flavour-packed red mojo sauce – juicy, smoky, and completely unforgettable. The lobster tabbouleh ($32) is a light, refreshing dish with juicy chunks of Boston lobster and a satisfying crunch from mustard frills.
And whatever you do, don’t skip dessert. The sticky date pudding ($18) is a standout: rich, comforting, and paired with a smoked milk ice cream that tones down the sweetness and adds a layer of depth. It’s the perfect ending to a sun-soaked beachside feast. (Review by Nicole Nithiyah, Deputy Editor)
Must-try items: Dry-aged barramundi, wood-fire half chicken
How much: Food from $16
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 10.30am to 9.30pm; Friday to Sunday, 10am to 10pm
Address: 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Singapore 098942
Visit Tanjong Beach Club Tanjong Beach Club’s menu
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: March 2025
New restaurant: Casa Cicheti
Walking into Casa Cicheti feels like stepping into a charming Italian home – warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. Nestled in Tiong Bahru, this trattoria from The Cicheti Group is all about “hearty, unfussy” Italian fare that hits the spot.
We started with antipasti, where familiar classics like carpaccio ($23) and salumi ($24/$38) sit alongside bold, creative bites. The burratina ($25) stole the show – creamy Pugliese cheese paired with a fiery chilli crunch, served with slices of seeded country bread that begged to be dipped. The salad, insalata verde ($19), was a pleasant surprise, bringing together a vibrant mix of greens, burnt miso dressing, shallots, and pine nuts for that perfect balance of savoury and nutty.
Then came the Nea-Romana pizza: a genius mash-up of Roman crispiness and a Neapolitan chew, bringing the best of both worlds to every bite. Pasta lovers won’t be disappointed either, with comforting plates like the cappellacci ($31) and the spicy, indulgent rigatoni alla Vodka ($29).
And just when I thought I was done, dessert arrived. I couldn’t pick a favourite between the tiramisu ($16), budino ($15), or profiterole ($15). (Review by Nicole Nithiyah, Deputy Editor)
Must-try items: Gnocco Fritto; Rigatoni Alla Vodka; Cinque Formaggi; Branzino
How much: Food from $13; drinks from $18
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11.30am to 2.30pm (last order: 2.00pm); 5.30pm to 10.30pm (last order: 9.30pm)
Address: #01-41, 78 Guan Chuan Street, Singapore 160078
New restaurant: Chen’s Kitchen
Now, I know that dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant isn’t exactly an everyday indulgence. But here’s the next best thing: fans of Shisen Hanten can now get their fix of bold Chuka Ryori flavours at Chef Chen Kentaro’s new casual tze char concept, Chen’s Kitchen. Blending Szechwan heat with Japanese finesse, he’s crafted a menu that delivers refined, perfectly balanced flavours.
Chef Kentaro’s signature mapo tofu (from $16.90) is a rich, umami-packed dish featuring silky tofu that melts in your mouth, a bold Szechwan sauce that brings the heat, and a mala buzz that leaves a lingering, addictive tingle on your tongue. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s the star of the show. Even better, there are four variations, including a lighter white rendition with prawns and scallops that we loved ($28.90).
Round out your meal with the XXL Szechwan la zi ji ($17.90), a next-level take on Chen’s popular Sichuan popcorn chicken, or the poached fish fillet in golden broth ($24.90), where delicate poached fish fillets bathe in a Japanese pumpkin broth. And of course, enjoy it all with the Szechwan spiced chahan with sakura shrimp ($13.90). But when it comes to mapo tofu, nothing beats having it with a simple bowl of fluffy white rice. (Review by Nicole Nithiyah, Deputy Editor)
Must-try items: Red mapo tofu; mango pudding; XXL Szechwan La Zi Ji
How much: From $10
Opening hours: 11am – 9.30pm daily
Address: #B1-43, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
New restaurant: Tomatillo Mexican Food & Bar
You know what hits different on a hot day in Singapore? An ice-cold frozen margarita. And that’s exactly how Tomatillo, the city’s newest Mexican gem, welcomed me. Perched along Esplanade’s breezy waterfront, this taqueria from the brilliant minds behind Canchita and Tinto (Chefs Daniel and Tamara Chavez), serves next-level tacos, killer cocktails, and a vibe so fun, I didn’t want to leave. Plus, it’s pet-friendly too!
I kicked things off with a light and crispy Mexican pizza (we call it an inside-out quesadilla). The chicken option, pollo morcho ($22), was flavourful and great for sharing. Then came the smokey, meaty taco al pastor ($14), where marinated pork meets tangy pineapple salsa. One bite, and I was sold (don’t forget to have it with the hot sauce, served tableside).
Of course, I had to wash it all down with classic margaritas ($16) and mojitos ($16). And just when I thought I was done, the crepas chidas ($12) appeared, and well… let’s just say I found room for dessert. (Review by Nicole Nithiyah, Deputy Editor)
Must-try items: Ceviche Tomatillo; Taco de Jaiba; Pollo Morcho
How much: Food from $14, drinks from $16
Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday, 5.00pm to 10.30pm (last order: 10.00pm), Saturday and Sunday, 12pm to 10.30pm
Address: #01-11, Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802
Visit Tomatillo Mexican Food & Bar
New restaurant: Modu
It’s perfectly understandable to associate health food with bland, boring dishes. That’s why Modu wants to change this perception with the first samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) restaurant in Singapore. The specially prepared offerings will nourish and soothe your soul, which is perfect for those who have been having a hard time (yes, I’m talking about me here).
There are six flavours to choose from, each with a liner denoting which soup is suitable for which individual. Are you a firstborn child or suffering from eldest daughter syndrome? The black chicken samgyetang ($37), with ginseng root, glutinous rice, leeks, and jujubes, is especially for you. Ladies who want to remain forever young are recommended to slurp up the Beauty soup ($37), while imbibers can down the Hangover samgyetang ($37) to rejuvenate their senses after a late night out.
Beyond herbal soups, diners can also indulge in starters, mains, and sides. Skip the standard carbs and go for the potato pancakes ($18 for three pieces) if you want to get filled up fast. Alternatively, tuck into the minari pancakes ($18 for three pieces) made with bori shrimps and served with a special dipping sauce. Still feeling peckish? Get the enoki mushroom fries served with homemade shichimi (spicy Japanese condiment sprinkle).
Modu takes the health and wellness theme seriously by extending it into the physical space. You can dig into your chosen samgyetang and accompanying dishes in a tranquil setting, done up with plenty of wooden fixtures and soft backlight. While you might be tempted to break out into yoga poses throughout your meal, I advise you not to do that. Just sit quietly, sip on your samgytang, and concentrate on your breathing.
Must-try items: Black chicken and Hangover samgyetangs; potato pancakes; enoki mushroom fries
How much: From $37
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: #02-37, Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road, Singapore 238897
New restaurant: KeonBae
Korean food, Japanese cuisine, and vibes. Mix them together and you get this fun and vivacious new spot on Pekin Street. Named after the Korean toast “cheers”, Kanpai Group’s latest venture is a winning combination of fascinating flavours and electric dynamics. Can we have a moment to appreciate the interior? Reds, blues, and contrasting lighting make the space lively and fun.
The menu is a mish-mash of Korean and Japanese offerings that’ll have you salivating. You gotta add the Korokke nuggets ($13) to your order sheet. These deliciously crispy goodness contain minced beef, pork, and duck, and go swimmingly with the creme fraiche and truffle katsu sauce. The dakgalbi nachos ($16) is a fun fusion of east and west cuisines. Sweet and spicy marinated chicken, melted camembert cheese, parmesan rice paper crisps… heavenly.
You can’t dine at a Korean food spot and not have fried chicken. KeonBae’s rendition ($13 for three pieces, $24 for six) comes in four flavours (original, spicy, yangnyeom, and garlic soy) that have been marinated for 24 hours. Sink your teeth into the fried birds and take the time to savour every ounce of flavour. While you’re at it, go on and have the army stew ($28.80), which can feed up to three mouths.
Wash everything down with beverages like highballs, crafted cocktails, beers, and wines. If you’re up for a fun drink, the Me, You, Breakfast? ($15) blends French toast, maple syrup, decaf espresso, and vodka into a heady concoction. It’s like having brekkie but in liquid form and at any time of the day.
Must-try items: Korokke nuggets; KeonBae’s fried chicken; dakgalbi nachos
How much: Food from $8; drinks from $6.80
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 3pm to 11pm and Fridays to Saturdays, 3pm to 2am
Address: #01-01, 38 Pekin Street, Singapore 048768
New restaurant: Nampla
Now that the Thomson-East Coast Line’s second phase is up and running, you have no excuse not to make your way to Marine Parade. The charming sleepy town is a treasure chest of undiscovered gems, including this new Thai restaurant. Nampla, which means fish sauce in Thai, is a twin-concept offering day and night Thai street food minus the sweltering heat and humidity.
You know the saying “good things take time”? Over here, many dishes require at least four hours of preparation, which means you’re getting a whole lotta love poured into the food. The result is authentic offerings that truly captured Thailand’s vibrant flavours. One major highlight is the melt-in-your-mouth pig trotters – you’ll immediately be transported to the Land of Smiles after the first bite!
Of course, you can expect other familiar dishes here. The tom yum goong ($16.90) is a hit with my table, though the kanom jean (Thai laksa) is a worthy contender fighting for my attention. If you can’t decide what to order, you can’t go wrong with the phad kra pow crispy omelette ($18.90). Who can hate on fried rice, egg, and a generous serving of basil pork?
Desserts are a must, and if you’re not feeling the mango sticky rice or red ruby, consider getting the kanom krok (mini flower-shaped pandan and coconut Thai pancakes) if they’re available. Otherwise, switch things up and finish off with the fried mini spring rolls ($10.40 for eight pieces).
Must-try items: Phad kra pow crispy omelette; fried winglets
How much: A la carte from $8
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 3pm & 4.30pm to 9.30pm
Address: #01-590, 83 Marine Parade Central, Singapore 440083
New restaurant: Sensu
Ah, Keong Saik. There may be plenty of culinary establishments in this enclave, but if you have the feels for European cuisine with Japanese flavours, Sensu warmly welcomes you with open arms. Chef Shang Jhi cut his teeth working at Michelin-starred restaurants like Les Amis and Jaan by Kirk Westaway, so you’re in very safe hands.
What’s on the menu? Firstly, you can look forward to a la carte dishes like uni and sakura ebi capellini ($32++) and Alaskan king crab tart ($48++). One a la carte item that has my hearts is the seafood paella (from $58++). Picture Carabinero prawn, baby squid, and chorizo in a bed of premium Koshihikari rice – heavenly! If seafood isn’t your preferred protein of choice, can we interest you in the black truffle chicken wings ($18++)? The everyday dish is elevated thanks to the fungi and stuffed with sticky rice.
You can also keep decision making to a minimum by going for the lunch set ($98++) or tasting menus ($228++). The former is a four-course spectacle starting with Japanese sweet corn soup and crispy prawn egg, before you end off with a refreshing bowl of passion fruit sorbet with mandarin jelly and basil. Sensu’s tasting menu brings together the best of its offerings, with Carabinero prawn, seasonal fish, lamb rack, and burrata ice cream thrown in the mix. You’ll need a minute to let everything settle in your stomach before you take your leave!
One thing that we’re still obsessing over is the interior design – the sakura kumiko screen, in particular. I’m told it’s made without any nails, and now I want it for my home. Breathtaking? Definitely.
Must-try items: Sakura ebi fritter; seafood paella; Myriad of Citrus
How much: Lunch set at $98++; tasting menu from $228++
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 12pm to 2.30pm & 6pm to 10.30pm
Address: 27 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089134
New menu: Odem
Confession (even though it’s probably pretty obvious): I love going to New Bahru. Sure, it’s a little inconvenient to get to if you’re going by public transport, but once you’re there, you wouldn’t want to leave. There’s always something new to discover, and during my recent visit, I finally had the chance to hit up Odem and sample its new lunch and brunch menus.
Those who prefer noodles to rice (we’re a marginalised group) must order the duck guksu. I love the al dente buckwheat noodles, which mops up the perilla seed sauce and pair well with the cucumber kimchi. The duck slices are perfectly barbequed, eliminating the gamey texture for a smoky, tender finish. Another must-try is the fig and jujube salad. The sweetness from the fruit and candied walnuts nicely contrasts the burrata’s savouriness.
Another carb I love? Bread (yup, still not rice), and the kalbi sando is one brunch item we’re definitely going to sing praises for. Close your eyes and picture a juicy, hefty slab of beef short-rib patty, with aged cheddar, perilla pickles, and two sauces between toasted bread pieces. There’s a good crunch when I bite into the sando; the aioli and house-made sando sauce play well together, giving the sandwich a moreish, savoury kick.
Odem gave the hwachae a modern twist, transforming it from a soupy favourite to an ice sorbet, swapping the milk with rose tea. Each spoonful leaves a potent taste in your mouth – not too much till you’ll get drunk, but just nice enough to have you leave the restaurant on a lifted high when you’re done.
Must-try items: Duck guksu; kalbi sando; hwachae
How much: A la carte from $14
Opening hours: Lunch and brunch available on Tuesdays to Sundays, 11.30am to 2pm
Address: #01-17, New Bahru, 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: February 2025
New restaurant: Magpie
Tiong Bahru is already brimming with culinary institutions, but that shouldn’t stop more from popping up in the ‘hood. Everyone, say hello to Magpie, the brainchild of Eliot Thomas (founder of Kafe Utu and Tamba) and Kurt Wagner. The menu celebrates bold flavours by letting the best ingredients take centre stage in shared plates and cocktail classics.
A must-try dish is the Market Haul with Zanzibar sauce ($72), which Kurt raved about after chef-owner Eliot cooked it for him once. If you’re into Mexican food, the tangy and spicy aguachile ceviche ($26) will be your new favourite from this spot. Be sure to add the lamb T-bone ($52) to your order sheet. The New Zealand meat comes with yoghurt, burnt aubergine, and Urfa chilli butter. Delicious.
Must-try items: Market Haul with Zanzibar sauce; lamb T-bone
How much: Food from $12; drinks from $7 (menu changes regularly)
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: 57 Eng Hoon Street, Singapore 160057
New restaurant: Latido
Have you ever had Colombian food? If the answer is no, Latido is a stellar introduction to the cuisine. To set the scene, the space is warm and inviting, with counter seats by the open kitchen that you should snag to watch all the flaming action. And of course, chef Fernando Arevalo, whose name you might have heard in the kitchens of Artemis, Preludio and Bacata, is no stranger to creating excellent Latin American food.
We arrived right as the place opened for dinner service, but by 7pm, it was packed and buzzing with excited diners. After taking our first bite of the pan de la casa ($8), chef’s signature rye bread from his Preludio days, it was clear that the dining experience would be exceptional. If you haven’t tried this starter, don’t scoff at it. Topped with fermented mushroom glaze and bacon fat, and served with onion butter, it will change the way you look at bread.
From the snack side of the menu, the pincho de corazones ($22) is another must-order. These aren’t your ordinary grilled skewers of chicken hearts. They’re impeccably done and served with a red wine and egg yolk sauce, along with potatoes fried in duck fat.
But hands down, our favourite of the night was the arepa de chocolo y huevo ($20), an impossibly fluffy corn cake packed with juicy pork jowl and egg with an oozing yolk. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savoury, and we could eat five more of these stunners.
If you’re game to try braised rabbit meat, the arepan conejo ($38) envelops the tender meat in a soft cassava wrap stuffed with bacon and parmesan. As for the mains, you’ve got choices like blue cod, grilled sea bass, suckling pig and lobster in potato soup – but honestly, we’d come back just for the snacks and appetisers. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Pincho de corazones, arepa de chocolo y huevo, and arepan conejo
How much: From $8 for snacks, from $12 for appetisers, from $38 for mains
Opening hours: Lunch 12pm to 3pm; dinner 6pm to 12am
Address: 40 Tras Street, Singapore 078979
New restaurant: Vino Tinto
Tapas from $6 and wines from $14 per glass? Say less! We made it to the launch of Vino Tinto, the city’s newest Spanish hangout, and it was a relaxed spot to unwind after work. Helmed by chefs Daniel and Tamara Chavez, the couple behind Canchita Peruvian Cuisine and Tinto Spanish Restaurant at Dempsey Hill, this casual eatery doesn’t disappoint with its food, though the ambience isn’t as vibey as we’d like (CBD woes, perhaps).
Pop by for a cup of coffee and Spanish sandwiches in the morning, lounge indoors at lunch, or take a seat in the alfresco area and grab a drink after work. You’ll find more than 30 tapas dishes on the menu, alongside Spanish wines and sangrias.
For us non-octopus lovers, the pulpo al brasa ($28) delivered a pleasant surprise with its tender meat slathered in smoked chilli mayo for a lick of heat, complemented by sweet grapes and toasted migas. Oh, and the paella here comes in a small pan with a serving size that’s just right for two. But we preferred the fideua de cerdo and padrones ($32). This noodle version of paella, tossed nicely with Iberico pork, Padron peppers, chestnuts and saffron aioli, was the perfect carb to round off the meal. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Pulpo a la brasa and fideua de cerdo & padrones
How much: Tapas from $6
Opening hours: Breakfast 8am to 11am; lunch 11.30am to 2.30pm; happy hour 5pm to 7pm; dinner 6pm to 9.30pm
Address: #01-10/K1, South Tower, 1 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048583
Visit Vino Tinto Vino Tinto’s menu
New restaurant: Yakiniku Gyubei
Who doesn’t love Japanese cuisine? If you adore yakiniku, listen up: Japan’s first head-to-tail yakiniku restaurant debuts its first overseas outpost in Tanjong Pagar. Yakiniku Gyubei utilises every part of the cow, a top-tier breed from Kyushu, and transforms it into a mindblowing dining experience that challenges your understanding of meat.
Choose from the sirloin, shoulder loin, chuck, rump, and thigh as part of your omakase BBQ course. The lunch set for two ($100) comprises six kinds of wagyu matched with salad, side dishes, and your choice of hot main. Dinner is a different menu altogether, where you’ll be spoilt for choice with wagyu sushi ($9.90) and sashimi (from $26.90) alongside tantalising off cuts like beef tongue ($25.90), beef first stomach ($21), and beef large bowel ($19).
Must-try items: Signature Gyubei lunch; beef skirt lunch; top wagyu sushi and sashimi
How much: Lunch menu from $12.90; a la carte dinner menu from $7.50
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 3pm & 6pm to 10pm
Address: #03-10/11, 100am Mall, 100 Tras Street, Singapore 079027
New restaurant: Camp Caribbean
Oh, what we’d give to be in the Caribbean right now. But it’s only the start of 2025, so we make do with the next best thing: this new restaurant in Singapore. Camp Caribbean serves an authentic taste of the subregion right at our doorstep. Heading the kitchen is chef Ricardo Allen, a true-blue Jamaican who can’t wait to have you devour his cuisine.
Of course, it ain’t Caribbean without the signature jerk chicken ($18). Chef Ricardo’s rendition doesn’t hold back on the smokiness, which comes generously doused with various spices like allspice and cinnamon. You can swap out the chicken for BBQ pork rib ($34, ½ rack) if you prefer a different meat option. Be sure to add the Jamaican patties to your order. A staple street food in the Caribbean, the flaky golden pastry is filled with spiced beef ($16) or vegetables ($15).
Must-try items: Jerk chicken; oxtail with spinners; Jamaican patties; sorrelade punch
How much: A la carte menu from $5
Opening hours: Varies by day
Address: 66 Kampong Bugis, Singapore 338987
Visit Camp Caribbean Camp Caribbean’s menu
New menu: Restaurant Espoir
Hands up if you love Spanish food! Muslim-owned Restaurant Espoir invites you to its “bottomless” tapas buffet ($98++) with local flavours. Diners can expect up to 17 assorted small plates served on trolleys. Pro tip: come to the buffet on an empty stomach. There’s a lot of food, and not gonna lie, it pains us that we were unable to polish our plates.
Among the extensive menu, we love the patatas bravas, which comes with three condiments: curry bravas sauce, sambal ijo, and saffron aioli dip. Our only minor gripe is the sauces are too little! The tortillas de patatas, topped with aioli and free-range eggs, is a distant second. We think of it as an elevated bagedil. Between the two paellas, we recommend going for the chicken option. It comes with salted egg chicken crackling, chicken broth, and crispy bottom rice.
Two sweet treats are wheeled out to signal the end of the buffet. Espoir’s churros come in plain and pandan flavours, with a generous dusting of sugar. We can’t choose between the chocolate coffee and toffee sauces – there was plenty of double dipping action going on at our table! The Basque cheesecake is great too, although at this point we were feeling overstuffed. Skip the compote and eat the cake as it is.
Must-try items: Patatas bravas with three sauces; tortillas de patatas; paella con pollo; Basque cheesecake
How much: $98++ per adult and $15++ per child (six to 12 years old)
Opening hours: Tapas buffet available on Fridays, 6.30pm; Saturdays, 11am, 1.30pm and 6.30pm; Sundays, 11am and 1.30pm
Address: 70 Amoy Street, Singapore 069889
Visit Restaurant Espoir Restaurant Espoir’s menu
New menu: Na Oh
It may not exactly be winter right now in Singapore (despite the monsoon surge), but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the season’s delights. Na Oh’s winter seasonal menu ($78) continues its modus operandi of merging authentic flavours with contemporary touches. The result? A delightful four-course meal that’s a testament to why it’s one of our favourite restaurants.
The menu kicks off with mainstay starters of homemade tofu with aged soy sauce, and buckwheat and mugunji pancake with freshly harvested greens from Hyundai’s smart farm. We thoroughly enjoyed the chilled noodles in fermented kimchi broth. The chewy hand-pulled strands complement the braised octopus and beef tendon.
Diners can choose between three jinjitsang options for mains. We opted for the charcoal-grilled Hanbang-style beef short ribs, which come with sotbap (rice with chestnuts and thistle), preserved unfermented kimchi, and three sides. There’s also beef broth served in a hot stone pot. We have no notes for the meat: it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly absorbs the aged soy sauce. The broth is very suitable for Singapore’s current inclement weather.
The dessert reimagines the viral hwachae into a fruit punch and sorbet form, made with Jeju citrus, Naju pear, and pomegranate. It’s a refreshing treat to cap off the meal. We found it interesting that the restaurant serves this (along with the noodles) cold – perhaps as a nod to the Korean tradition of eating cold dishes during winter. But overall, Na Oh did it (right) again.
Must-try items: Chilled hand-pulled somyeon in lightly fermented kimchi broth, braised octopus and beef tendon; winter hwachae
How much: Lunch and dinner set menus at $78 per pax
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Sundays, 11.30am to 3.30pm & 6pm to 10pm
Address: Level 3, Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore, 2 Bulim Avenue, Singapore 649674
New restaurants and menus in Singapore: January 2025
New restaurant: Lo Hey HK Seafood
Why travel to Hong Kong for food when you can have a taste of it at One Holland Village? This new restaurant in Singapore presents a lethal combination of fresh seafood and nostalgic charm that’ll bring you back to the fragrant harbour’s golden era. We have to admit, when we stepped into the place, it felt like we were in one of Jackie Chan’s old films. There’s a lovely alfresco dining area that’s also pet-friendly. Yes, four-legged friends can experience old-world Hong Kong too.
The gorgeous handwritten menus boast delectable Chinese dishes including traditional soya sauce duck (from $30), hami melon sea conch chicken soup ($58), and “typhoon shelter” style stir-fried fried crab (from $9.80 per 100g). Don’t pass up on the sauteed watercress with dried shrimp ($14.80), which offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Oh, and try the housemade almond paste with sweet potato ($6.80) to cleanse your palate.
Must-try items: Traditional soya sauce duck, sauteed watercress with dried shrimp; housemade almond paste with sweet potato
How much: A la carte menu from $9.70
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 3pm & 5.30pm to 10pm
Address: #03-22/23/24, One Holland Village, 7 Holland Village Way, Singapore 275748
New restaurant: Gamtan
Telok Ayer is one of the best places to enjoy all kinds of cuisines in Singapore. Joining the buzzy enclave is this Korean restaurant specialising in sotbap, aka Korea’s version of traditional claypot rice. Choose from various types of sotbap including steak ($34.80), pork ($26.80), mushroom ($23.80), and abalone ($28.80). Those with adventurous palates can try the eel sotbap ($28.80), one of the restaurant’s most popular offerings.
Pro tip: here are a few steps you should follow to fully enjoy the dish. First, scoop the sotbap and sauce into a separate bowl and mix them well. Pour in the barley tea that’s just casually hanging around on the side and cover it for a few minutes. This is eaten best with the scorched rice left at the bottom of the bowl.
When evening comes around, Gamtan transforms into a barbeque joint serving premium beef and pork cuts. The king galbi cut is a fave among diners, so set aside some stomach space for that.
Must-try items: Steak sotbap; eel sotbap
How much: From $14.80
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 3pm & 5pm to 10pm
Address: 132 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068599
Visit Gamtan Visit Gamtan’s menu
New restaurant: Bhoomi by Milind Sovani
Attention, Indian food lovers: you’re gonna want to sit up for this. Fine dining restaurant Bhoomi has taken root in Singapore and can’t wait to welcome you to its physical space in Orchard. Diners can enjoy India’s rich flavours and culinary heritage through dishes from age-old family traditions and regional specialities. Everything is made with ingredients handpicked from trusted suppliers, so you’re getting the best of what the country has to offer.
What’s good to kick off your feast? The “incredible” pani puri ($15), which is chef Milind’s favourite dish. Of course, the tulsi malai paneer tikka ($22) deserves a place on your table. Another obvious choice is the curry (from $26): choose between veggie options or the standards like chicken tikka masala ($26), which you can eat with steamed basmati rice ($8). The Indians make a mean sweet treat, and you can’t leave the restaurant without trying the gulab jamun ($12), made with reduced milk and rose.
Must-try items: Pani puri; tulsi malai paneer tikka; gulab jamun
How much: Set lunch menu at $29.90++ per pax; a la carte menu from $6
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 12pm to 3pm & 6pm to 10.30pm
Address: #01-05, 1 Claymore Drive, Singapore 229594
Visit Bhoomi by Milind Sovani Bhoomi by Milind Sovani’s menu
New restaurant: Vitis Wine Bar and Bistro
We’re all familiar with wines from countries like France, Italy and Australia. But what about Asian winemakers? This sleek new restaurant near Bugis wants to spotlight these oft-overlooked producers for wine lovers, and we’re loving it. Expect to see bottles from China, Thailand, Japan and Taiwan on the list, including standout names like Long Dai Cabernet Blend 2019 from Shandong and Fratelli Vitae Chardonnay 2016 from India.
As for the food, Asian classics get a contemporary spin to pair with the wine selection. Think familiar and comforting, yet fresh and new. We enjoyed the deep-fried pig’s tail ($16) that’s melt-in-your-mouth crisp, though the grilled sumi ika ($28) stuffed with glutinous rice was a tad chewy and overcooked. But the zesty Thai-style eggplant salad ($18) with ajitama and green chilli sauce delivers a punchy kick that’s refreshing.
For mains, the assam glazed pork ribs with rojak salad ($26) was perfectly tender, sticky and sweet, while the lamb shoulder ($38) was a little on the tough side, though beautifully served with cumin parsnip puree and a herb salad. If you’re a fan of noodles, you’ll gleefully take your pick from options like dan dan ($18), oxtail lu rou ($28), and abalone kolo mee ($38) – basically elevated versions of what you know and love. (Review by Benita Lee, Group Editor)
Must-try items: Deep-fried pig’s tail; eggplant salad; assam glazed pork ribs with rojak salad; abalone kolo mee
How much: Set menu at $58; a la carte menu from $8
Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays, 12pm to 2.15pm & 5pm to 10.15pm and Saturdays, 5pm to 10.15pm
Address: #01-46/47, Duo Galleria, 7 Fraser Street, Singapore 189356
Visit Vitis Wine Bar and Bistro Vitis Wine Bar and Bistro’s menu
New outlet: Kok Sen Restaurant
This name needs no further introduction. Renowned zi char establishment Kok Sen has finally opened a second outlet at City Square Mall. Yes, you don’t have to travel all the way to Keong Saik to enjoy the brand’s delicious offerings.
Fans can expect familiar faces, from the signature big prawn hor fun (from $19) and roasted pork with black sauce (from $18) to comforting claypot yong tau foo (from $18). Tip: order the outlet-exclusive crispy smoked tea duck (from $25), which requires hours of marinating, air-drying, smoking, and deep-drying. It sounds intensive, but the final product is divine.
Must-try items: Big prawn hor fun; claypot yong tau foo; crispy smoked tea duck
How much: A la carte menu from $7.50
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 9pm
Address: #04-31/32, City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, Singapore 208539
Visit Kok Sen Restaurant Kok Sen Restaurant’s menu
New menu: Soup Restaurant
Guess who’s back after a month-long renovation? Soup Restaurant Nex reopens its doors with a brand new look and a refreshed menu. We’re in awe of the new colour scheme! The light teak wood with gold accents makes the space brighter and more spacious; we also noticed the chairs and lampshades bear a ginger flower design, which is a nice nod to the restaurant’s signature ginger sauce.
The collagen soup with fish maw ($15.90 per pax) makes a triumphant return to the menu. Will this help delay the signs of ageing? We don’t have the answer for that, but it’s a good broth to slurp. Another item that’s making a comeback is the individual meal set, featuring a bowl of steamed rice, a pot of boiled soup, and desserts. A simple yet satisfying meal for all types of diners.
Must-try items: Collagen soup with fish maw; samsui ginger chicken
How much: A la carte menu from $14.90
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am to 10pm (Nex outlet)
Address: #02-15/16, Nex, 23 Serangoon Central Singapore 556083
Visit Soup Restaurant Soup Restaurant’s menu
New menu: Amo
There’s no stopping the rise of Italian dining in Singapore, and we’re here for it. Amo beckons you to visit its sprawling space with a revamped menu perfect for a cosy meal with friends or a lively celebration with colleagues. Expect vibrant antipasti (from $18), crisp salads, hearty sides, and of course, signature pizzas (from $26). The whole butter roasted spring chicken ($45) is a delicious indulgence accompanied by spinach and truffle jus. If you prefer a different protein, then sink your teeth into the charcoal grilled wagyu beef ($42), which comes with truffle mash.
P.S. Amo is also introducing an ever-changing weekly set lunch. For $28, diners can get two courses: a rotating selection of appetisers followed by gourmet pasta or meat for mains. What a sweet deal!
Must-try items: Whole butter roasted spring chicken; charcoal grilled wagyu beef
How much: Two-course set lunch at $28++ per pax; a la carte menu from $10
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 2.30pm & 6pm to 11pm
Address: 33 Hongkong Street, Singapore 059672
Savour the best of 2025 with these new restaurants and menus in Singapore!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to make a reservation?
Yes, absolutely. Soft launches and grand openings often come with a lot of buzz, which means walk-ins can be a gamble. We highly recommend booking a table well in advance, especially if you're planning a weekend dinner or lunch.
What is a "soft opening" and what should I expect?
A soft opening is a trial run before a restaurant's official launch. During this period, the menu might be limited, the service might be slightly slower, and they might have special promotions. It's a chance for the team to iron out any kinks before they open to the public. As a diner, it's a great opportunity to be one of the first to try the food, but it's also important to be patient and understanding.
Are new restaurants always expensive?
Not always. The price range for new restaurants is incredibly diverse. Some new spots offer fantastic value-for-money, while others are high-end fine dining concepts. Our guide provides a mix of all price points, so you can find something that fits your budget.
How do new restaurants deal with dietary restrictions?
It's always best to be upfront and transparent about any dietary restrictions or allergies when you make your reservation. New kitchens are often eager to please and will work with you to create a memorable and safe meal, but they need time to prepare.
What's the best way to give feedback?
If a new restaurant asks for your feedback, be honest and constructive. They genuinely want to improve and will appreciate thoughtful comments on the food, service, or ambiance. You might find a QR code on the table that links to a survey, which is an easy and discreet way to share your thoughts.
