Adira is the Senior Food & Drink Writer at Time Out Singapore. She has contributed to local lifestyle publications, NGOs and government agencies, but now holds a full-time role that combines her love for eating and writing. Her approach to food is to try everything once if you get the chance – from the glamorous to the gritty, the celebrated to the undiscovered. On her off days, you'll likely find her ticking off her ever-growing To-Eat list or exploring the latest art exhibitions in town.

Got a favourite food haunt or an interesting story to share? Drop it at [email protected].

Adira Chow

Adira Chow

Senior Food & Drink Writer

Articles (83)

The best mooncakes in Singapore for Mid-Autumn Festival 2025

The best mooncakes in Singapore for Mid-Autumn Festival 2025

Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 falls on October 6, and with it comes a glowing celebration of lanterns, full moons and of course, indulgent mooncakes. Across Singapore, hotels, bakeries and restaurants are rolling out their most exquisite mooncake collections yet, blending classic flavours like lotus paste and egg yolk with interesting ones like chendol, yuzu and more. Whether you're buying a box of traditional baked mooncakes for family celebrations or sending over a luxe snowskin set to a client, this year's selection won't disappoint. We've done all the tasting and rounded up the best mooncakes in Singapore for 2025, so you can skip the guesswork and get straight to the good stuff.  RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore and The best things to do in Singapore this month  
The best cocktail bars in Singapore

The best cocktail bars in Singapore

For some, nothing quite beats ending the day with cocktails and good conversations with friends. Thankfully, Singapore is home to some of the best bars in Asia and even in the world. Some of these establishments might even be hidden in plain sight right next to your workplace. Whether it’s a classic martini or a completely customised drink you’re after, we’ve got just the spots that can shake up a quality tipple to your liking. From reliable all-time favourites, to secret cocktail dens, speakeasy and bespoke joints, these are the hottest cocktail bars you should be hitting up once the day dims. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best bars in Singapore and The best wine bars in Singapore
The best cheap eats in Singapore that are actually good

The best cheap eats in Singapore that are actually good

Singapore may be known as one of the most expensive cities to live in, and the recent GST hike doesn't make it much better. But we're here to prove that it's possible to dine on a dime yet enjoy a satisfying meal — if you know where to look. We're letting you in on some affordable finds in our city, apart from our trusty hawker centres that never fail to serve up delicious nosh for cheap. These places whip up solid meals for around $10 and under, whether it's a quality burger you're craving, traditional Thai fare, or a scrumptious banh mi that's sure to leave you stuffed. Here's helping you spend less on lunch so you can splurge on the things that matter. RECOMMENDED: The best hawker centres in Singapore and The best healthy bowls in Singapore under $15 Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.
The best things to do in Singapore this weekend (September 19-21)

The best things to do in Singapore this weekend (September 19-21)

The September school holidays might be over, but there’s still plenty to keep you and the fam busy this weekend. Check out Japanese artist Daisuke Kondo’s whimsical exhibition, or mingle at a free laundromat social mixer. Pet lovers can swing by a camping-themed market at The Star Vista, while flower enthusiasts can visit Gardens by the Bay’s latest Swiss-inspired floral display. Read on for the best things to do in Singapore this weekend. RECOMMENDED: New openings and attractions in Singapore in 2025 and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore
The 50 best bars in Singapore

The 50 best bars in Singapore

There’s a reason Singapore remains one of the cocktail capitals of Asia, if not the world. Yes, we have to acknowledge that the F&B industry is feeling the squeeze with rising rents, manpower shortages and inflation pushing the average cocktail north of $25. But the Singapore drinker has a refined palate, and the drinks here are absolutely world-class and well worth the pretty penny. Throw that penny in almost any direction and you’ll land at a solid bar. But since you’re here on Time Out, let us help. This is our constantly updated list of the best bars in Singapore right now – the places we’re drinking at, talking about, and recommending to our friends. You’ll find classy cocktail bars with excellent drinks (and food), trendy listening lounges, natural wine hangouts and divey beer joints. September 2025: New names to know include Hup San Social Club, a Club Street hideaway where Korean flavours meet creative cocktails and Bar Somma, which has one of Singapore’s best dirty martinis (with free tripe paninis, no less). Old favourites like Jigger & Pony and Native continue to prove their staying power, while Side Door, Offtrack and Fura keep things fresh, fun and future-facing. Now go forth and drink. For more bar recommendations, check out these wine bars stocked with quality vino, speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors, whisky dens, craft beer breweries and many more.  Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants.
The best bars in Orchard Singapore

The best bars in Orchard Singapore

Orchard Road isn’t just about retail therapy and five-star hotels, it’s also home to some of Singapore’s most stylish and inventive drinking dens. Whether you’re craving a perfectly stirred martini, an avant-garde cocktail inspired by Japanese flavours, or a speakeasy experience tucked discreetly behind sliding doors, you’ll find it all along Singapore’s most famous shopping belt. Many of the city’s top hotels house destination bars that rival the best in the world, and you’ll also find indie concepts pushing boundaries with bold ideas and eccentric charm. This guide highlights the places worth dressing up for, from sleek hotel bars dripping with old-world glamour to cosy Japanese-inspired hideaways where omotenashi is at the heart of every pour. And if you’re looking for a slightly more relaxed evening, you’re just a short stroll or cab ride away from New Bahru in River Valley – a buzzing lifestyle enclave where natural wines, craft cocktails, and quirky concepts are the order of the night. Updated August 2025: Orchard’s drinking scene keeps evolving. This month, we’ve spotlighted a mix of stalwart institutions like Manhattan and Origin Bar alongside new-wave favourites at New Bahru. Whether you’re after barrel-aged classics, manga-inspired highballs, or immersive theatrical drinking, Orchard offers more than enough to keep your nights out exciting. Find out how we curate and review at Time Out
The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

August 2025: The dining scene in Singapore is always buzzing, and at Time Out, we're dedicated to uncovering the very best of it – right here, right now. This updated list brings together fresh, exciting dining concepts that have debuted in 2025, alongside beloved F&B classics and underrated spots we swear by. Welcome to the Time Out Eat List, a compilation of the 50 finest restaurants in Singapore, carefully handpicked and curated by our expert local editors. From innovative restaurants by acclaimed chefs to humble local haunts that deserve way more love, these are the dining destinations in Singapore that you’ve got to visit at least once in your life.  RECOMMENDED: Narrowing down the 50 best restaurants in Singapore is by no means an easy feat, which is why we also have separate lists for the best Japanese, Italian, Chinese and restaurants on the island – among many others. Also check out these roundups of our favourite hawker centres and cheap eats if you’re after a wallet-friendly meal. Find out more about how Time Out makes recommendations and reviews restaurants. Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.
The best brunch spots in Singapore

The best brunch spots in Singapore

Brunch has earned its place as a weekend ritual we all look forward to. There’s nothing quite like clocking in a few more hours of sleep and then waking up to enjoy a leisurely meal that combines the best of breakfast and lunch. Whether you’re craving classic eggs on toast, indulgent ricotta pancakes, a gourmet sandwich, or a vibrant plant-based bowl, our diverse brunch scene has something to satisfy every craving and diet.  What makes brunch in Singapore so special? It’s the way local and international influences find themselves blended effortlessly into menus, and how there are tons of options depending on the occasion – from elegant restaurants in the city to casual neighbourhood digs. In this list, we’ve narrowed down some of our favourites, including recent haunts and places we’ve been loyal fans of for years. Expect freshly baked goods, solid coffee, and dishes that go beyond the ordinary.  RECOMMENDED: The 50 best cafés in Singapore and The best brunch buffets in Singapore Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.
The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore

The best Chinese restaurants in Singapore

Chinese cuisine in Singapore is rooted in centuries of tradition and shaped by local tastes, regional dialects, and global techniques. Whether it’s a sumptuous Cantonese feast at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a heritage Hakka meal in a family-run eatery, there’s a depth of flavour and cultural history to be found in every bowl and bite. We’ve handpicked these spots for their consistency, creativity, and commitment to tradition, with menus that span refined creations to deeply comforting classics. Expect seafood-rich claypot stews, expertly roasted meats, impressive abalone dishes, and some of the best dim sum in town. July 2025: This latest refresh includes new seasonal menus at Summer Palace and Man Fu Yuan, a deeper spotlight on heritage at Plum Village and Spring Court, and the elegant return of Teochew cuisine at Tien Court. Whether you’re craving luxury or looking for soulful, nostalgic fare, these picks represent the very best of Chinese dining in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best traditional Chinese dialect restaurants in Singapore and The best modern Chinese restaurants in Singapore Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.
The best Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants in Singapore

The best Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurants in Singapore

Grilled meats, salads, flatbreads, spices, hummus, grains and legumes. These are quintessential elements of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. And while it's often hard to distinguish where one ends and the other begins, we can all concur that you can't ever go wrong with either. If you're craving the vibrancy and textures that these cuisines have to offer, here's our guide on where to dine for outstanding Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best Peruvian restaurants in Singapore and The best Greek restaurants in Singapore
The best new restaurants in Singapore 2025

The best new restaurants in Singapore 2025

Singapore’s dining scene moves at breakneck speed – some 300 or so new restaurants open each month. That’s nearly 10 a day. Let that sink in for a bit. Even for a city that’s already one of the world’s best for food, that number is still on all accounts, quite staggering.  With so many new spots popping up, we’re on a mission to track down the tastiest, most innovative, and value-for-money spots in town. Whether it’s your favourite chef making waves with a fresh concept, or a new but undiscovered restaurant that deserves some time in the spotlight, our nifty list has got it all. Without further ado, here are the best new restaurants in Singapore to visit this year – all tried, tested, and approved by the Time Out team. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try  Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.
Guide to Punggol Coast Hawker Centre: Discover 40 stalls including Michelin-recognised names

Guide to Punggol Coast Hawker Centre: Discover 40 stalls including Michelin-recognised names

Punggol just got a lot cooler with a brand new hawker centre to its name. Punggol Coast Hawker Centre is the latest addition to Singapore's ever-growing hawker scene, and it's already drawing a steady crowd. The 600-seater food centre is breezy and spacious, and not to mention, parked right next to the new Punggol Coast Mall and MRT. It's also conveniently connected to Punggol Digital District, making it a no-brainer for quick and easy lunches around the area. To its credit, it's got plenty of food stalls – 40 to be exact – that warrant a trip down to the far North-East too. Think Michelin-studded names, old-school favourites, and even stalls by young hawkers selling creative takes on traditional snacks like curry puff and min jiang kueh. Here are 10 must-try stalls to check out on your next visit. RECOMMENDED: The best hawker centres in Singapore View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Singapore (@timeoutsg)

Listings and reviews (96)

Sake Matsuri Singapore 2025

Sake Matsuri Singapore 2025

Calling all sake lovers: Singapore’s largest sake festival returns for its 11th edition at a brand new location: Jewel Changi Airport. Held at the Changi Experience Studio from October 31 to November 2, Sake Matsuri 2025 will feature over 150 sake breweries and more than 400 labels from across Japan and beyond – its biggest line-up to date. The cherry on top? Views of Jewel's iconic rain vortex as you sip and savour. There will be a total of nine sessions held throughout the festival weekend. During each two or three-hour window, festival-goers will get to enjoy free-flow samples of sake and receive a complimentary Sake Matsuri tasting glass to bring home. You’ll also get to purchase bottles of your favourite sake and spirits at exclusive festival prices.  The grand showcase will feature plenty of award-winning names and rare labels, including the premium Junmai Daiginjo, which is brewed with highly polished rice to give a light, complex and fragrant flavour; as well as Namazakes or unpasteurised sake. Also look out for rare sake made with traditional methods like Bodaimoto and Kimoto, one-of-a-kind Doburoku brews, as well as a range of shochu and Japanese spirits at the festival.  There are also all-day VIP passes on Friday and Saturday for enthusiasts who want more bang for their buck. With the pass, guests can participate in two unlimited tasting sessions of two hours each and one three-hour session – that's seven hours in total. You'll also have VIP access to a lounge are
IKEA Family Fest 2025

IKEA Family Fest 2025

There's plenty to look forward to at the IKEA Family Fest 2025, including the launch of IKEA's cutest merch yet – a limited-edition meatball plush keychain. These mini-sized plushies are being given out for free, but only to IKEA Family members who spend a minimum of $50 on home furnishing items in-store. All you have to do is flash your IKEA Family card and the receipt of your in-store purchases at the redemption booths from noon to 4pm daily. On top of that, there are plenty more family-friendly activities, discounts on home essentials and dining deals to get excited for. On September 6 and 7, pair up with your child in a race to assemble a 14-piece kitchen toy set and win a fun prize, and on September 13 and 14, let the young ones participate in a customisable keychain-making workshop. Other activities include a teddy bear mascot meet-and-greet, a terrarium workshop and more. IKEA Family members will also score 20 percent off home furnishing items, with discounts applied to different categories throughout the Family Fest, such as bedroom essentials, storage solutions and kitchenware. And even if you’re just visiting for a meal, there are attractive dining deals to look out for as well, including 40 Swedish meatballs and mashed potatoes in a bucket for $18.90 (usually priced at $27) and more.
Gibson

Gibson

5 out of 5 stars
Hidden on the second floor of a restored 1930s shophouse, Gibson has always been a little off the radar, and that’s part of its charm. To find the bar, you’ll first have to spot the seafood restaurant Humpback along Bukit Pasoh Road, enter through a door on the side, walk past another cocktail bar (Live Twice) and climb up a flight of stairs. Upon entering, you’ll first notice a gorgeous green marble table, lit by the gentle glow radiating from stained-glass windows. If you’ve been to Gibson any time in the last 10 years, you might remember the bar team’s unlikely get-up: tailored suits and bow ties paired with – you guessed it – bermudas. To mark its 10th year, the suit-and-shorts combo has been swapped for relaxed green overshirt jackets and comfy slacks. But attire aside, it’s the dusty pink 10th anniversary menu, called Timeless, that truly signals a new era for the bar.  Yes, the namesake Gibson cocktail ($28) remains – how could it not? The bar’s rendition of the classic dry martini is served at a chilling -15 degrees celsius, featuring Roku gin, house-made ginjo sake-vermouth and a pickled pearl onion garnish, accompanied by condiments of pickled pomelo, sliced pickled onion and smoked quail egg.  But that’s not what we’re here for. Instead, it’s the team’s shiny new creation, the MF Martini ($28), that comes highly recommended in this latest refresh. MF, short for “made for fries”, tells you everything you need to know about how this drink should be enjoyed. The stiff
Silly Goose

Silly Goose

4 out of 5 stars
If you’re looking for somebody to match your freak, this silly, goose-themed drinking hole at Stanley Road might just fit the bill. It’s duck-everything here, from the nondescript red door plastered with a goose sticker, to the duck-ified posters of pop-culture references on the walls, and adorable duck lamps that line each table.  Volume 2 of Silly Goose’s menu is a wacky departure from its debut menu, which was a tribute to hip-hop. This round, the bar shakes up 12 cocktails inspired by episodes of their favourite childhood cartoons – think iconic series like SpongeBob SquarePants and The Fairly OddParents. Each drink is named after the actual title of the episode it’s crafted based on. For starters, sip on Operation Flavor ($24), where Discarded Rum, cacao-infused stout cream and vanilla strawberry margarine shine in this sweet number inspired by Codename: Kids Next Door. The milkshake-like concoction might come with a freakish goose straw, but flavour-wise, no fowl play detected. We want so badly to love The Green Tea Ceremony ($24) – named after Iroh’s (from Avatar: The Legend of Aang) favourite drink – but the herbal notes brought out by the blend of Glenfiddich 12, lychee tea and ginger beer might just not be everyone’s cup of tea.  Cereal Killers ($24) is our pick of the night, and this Rugrats-inspired cocktail served in a wine glass also turns out to be owner Stanley’s favourite on the current menu. Stranger & Sons gin, acidified orange juice and orange liqueur fo
EG Coffee

EG Coffee

4 out of 5 stars
EG Coffee is a new café located below Alexis Condominium, which is an eight-minute walk from Queenstown MRT. The setup is simple – white and light-wood tones with four small tables indoors, and foldable camping chairs outdoors, where pets are welcome. The interiors are peppered with quirky knick-knacks, including a mini Sudoku corner where you can have a go at a puzzle while waiting. A friendly couple, Esther and Gavin (after whom the café is named), run the place. For a small neighbourhood café, EG Coffee offers a surprisingly extensive drinks menu. It’s got the usual roster of espresso-based drinks (a latte starts at $6.50, which is not the cheapest), filter coffee (from $9) and cold brews ($9). The proprietary Icons Blend is a medium-to-dark roast Guatemala and Uganda blend which is smooth and chocolatey with hints of caramel. You can also opt for Geisha and Yirgacheffe beans at a top-up, or ask the barista for the origin of the day. There are also interesting options like the dried orange latte ($6.90), mint coconut latte ($7.90), black sesame latte ($6.50), osmanthus latte ($6.90), as well as strawberry matcha ($9.50) and hojicha ($7.90). The black sesame latte ($7.50) is one of the most ordered items here, with a thick, velvety consistency, and a toasty, slightly savoury flavour. To beat the heat, EG also has refreshing soda-based coolers like the Strawberry Bliss ($6.50), Apple Tree ($7.50), Orange Sea ($7.50) and yuzu matcha ($8.90), as well as iced teas (from $5.90)
Thevar

Thevar

5 out of 5 stars
It felt like it wasn’t too long ago when we celebrated the debut of Singapore’s first contemporary Indian restaurant. Chef Manogren Thevar’s eponymous restaurant opened its doors in 2018 on Keong Saik Road, and after picking up two Michelin Stars, three Knives from The Best Chef awards and a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants along the way, he’s now ready for something new. Enter Thevar 2.0 – a well-rebooted version of the original, now located at Mohamed Sultan Road. It’s twice as big for one, seating 28 guests in the main dining hall, two to three at a cushy chef’s table and up to 10 in the private dining room (which is fitted with its own kitchen, restroom and private entrance). The minimalistic, sanctuary-like space is a subtle callback to Chef Mano’s childhood home in Penang, with terracotta walls and Chettinad-inspired motifs embedded in its pillars and rugs.  While the design of the restaurant is muted, the menu and flavours are anything but. Yes, it’s the same signature items that greet you in the $298 tasting menu (and new sharing dishes are on the way), but if you’ve got a real penchant for South Indian cuisine like us, and even if you don’t, a meal at Thevar is not to be passed up. Expect nothing less than spot-on seasoning, complex spice blends and stellar presentation. Chef Mano brings his classical French training to the table – his creations are never so vibrant that they overwhelm, nor so restrained that they feel pared back. My meal kicks off with a flavour-
Glow Festival 2025

Glow Festival 2025

Ready to feel good, inside and out? Glow Festival is lighting up Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza for nine days from July 5 to 13 with a jam-packed lineup of all things wellness. Think sunrise yoga sessions with a stunning view, high-energy barre and HIIT classes, soothing sound baths, craft workshops and even ice baths if you’re daring enough to take the plunge.  Back for its fourth edition, this year’s Glow Festival is bigger than ever, with over 70 experiences curated by 26 wellness partners and 64 hosts, including folks like running queen Ling Er Choo, acclaimed yogi Dylan Werner and Australian sprinter Olivia May.  Run club addicts, there’s also a 60km ultra marathon if you’re up for a challenge. The Noble Ultra SG60 kicks off on July 13 in support of mental health causes, and you can grab tickets to join the 21km and 8km legs of the route. Not a self-professed fitness buff? There are plenty of other sessions to get involved in, from coffee pop-ups to yin yoga and breathwork classes, as well as workshops that teach you how to slay your motherhood journey or craft your own macramé keychains and marble coasters.  Check out the Glow Festival website and event schedule to find out about ticket prices for individual classes. Or, purchase packages which entitle you to curate your own festival experience, whether you’re keen on studio, workshop, or run sessions. 
The Spot

The Spot

4 out of 5 stars
If the brief is ‘client meeting in the CBD’, The Spot is where many flock to for a fail-proof option. This all-day dining restaurant and bar is wedged in the heart of Marina One, and despite its semi-casual appearance, don’t expect the standard bistro fare here. The menu is pegged as contemporary European, but there’s a distinct Asian feel in the use of ingredients. Expect plenty of finesse and creativity, without anything being too far-reaching for a casual lunch appointment.  A must-order to start? The salmon nachos – a snackable, shareable tower of crispy gyoza skin with tartare, bonito mayo and wasabi guac. Another safe choice is the pork belly ‘char siu’, which is thoughtfully topped with pickled cucumbers, mustard and apple purée to cut through those fatty, melty layers.  Other table favourites include stuffed chicken wings packed with truffle chicken mousse and a hint of Sichuan peppercorn; hay-smoked hamachi with a trio of condiments – yuzu kosho, pickles and wasabi ponzu; and one of Chef’s signatures – the chilli crab pancake. The crispy dashi-infused egg layer comes with chunks of blue crab and is crowned with a heaping load of coriander – diabolical, but perfect if coriander is your thing.  Fill up on mains like a tamarind-glazed toothfish donabe, which is cleverly mixed with rice pops for extra texture, or gnaw on a heaving rack of Iberico pork ribs, grilled over binchotan and finished with a kicap manis glaze. Round off with desserts like the Chocolate Tart 2.0,
Hup San Social Club

Hup San Social Club

5 out of 5 stars
Helmed by industry veteran June Baek, this tiny 12-seater bar is one of 2025’s most exciting openings. After winning competitions and honing her craft across South Korea and Vietnam, Baek brings her playful yet refined cocktails back to Singapore, where she previously bartended at Madame Fan and MO Bar. Now, in her very own space, she experiments with flavours from her Korean heritage, local Singaporean flavours, and other delightfully nostalgic concoctions.  HSSC’s debut menu Do What Brings You Joy is a two-pager spread of 14 cocktails, with interesting savoury concoctions like Cold Soup ($26), Achar ($25), and The French Fries 2.0 ($26). The Cold Soup is a take on a Ulsan summer quick-fix dish: oi naengguk or cold cucumber soup. The incredibly zingy yet potent blend consists of Tokki Soju with kelp dashi, sesame, cucumber, and apple vinegar.  Baek recommends the Camellia ($25) for those who love sour flavour profiles. The rum, galangal, and rose blend is one that’s close to her heart, having first debuted as a competition cocktail. Meanwhile, The French Fries 2.0 is as irreverent as it gets, featuring Monkey Shoulder whisky infused with fries, Heinz ketchup, tomato, chilli, and salt.  The vibeA pocket-sized, dark, underground den that's perpetually packed. It's quite the squeeze, but just right for intimate date nights. The food Before descending into Hup San Social Club, line your stomach with Club Street Laundry's menu of modern Australian plates — our favourite's got to
Club Street Laundry

Club Street Laundry

4 out of 5 stars
The new Club Street Laundry is anything but a laundromat, but the restaurant does pay homage to its past life as Hup San Laundry, frequented by second-generation immigrants nearly a century ago. The “Hup San” name also lives on in Hup San Social Club, the cocktail bar in the basement, inspired by the many Chinese social clubs that once lined the street in the early 1900s. If you’re looking for a place to people-watch, Club Street Laundry fits the bill perfectly. The breezy, open-concept bistro has high tables perched along walkways, staring out at the charming shophouses around the neighbourhood. You’ll quickly spot the happy hour board splashed out with $15 house wines, tap cocktails, and full-pint Peronis from 4pm to 7pm on weekdays. The menu is positioned as modern-Australian, but really, Chef Justin Hammond (previously from Neon Pigeon and Underdog Inn) works his way around any and every flavour profile just fine, with dishes based off his travels around the world. We have no qualms devouring the flame-grilled beef cheeks which sit atop a bed of buttery mash ($33). Cooked overnight in a master-stock of dashi, orange peel, star anise and other spices, the beef comes out fork-tender without even a need for chewing, and the ahi verde (a type of South American pesto) adds pleasant acidity to each bite.   Despite our biases against the usual beurre blanc, fennel, dill and fish combination, the charcoal-grilled sea bream ($31) turns out excellently executed. Pickled fennel grac
Ki Su Shoujin Omakase

Ki Su Shoujin Omakase

Some might scoff at the idea of a meatless omakase, but the opening of Ki Su is a big win for vegetarians and veggie lovers alike who now have the opportunity to savour the art and experience of omakase without any restrictions.  Inspired by shojin ryori, which is a traditional style of cooking practised by Buddhist monks in Japan, Ki Su’s plant-based menus feature both refreshing and rich flavours as well as diverse textures to keep things interesting. Look out for the Air Flown Tonburi Caviar which is spotlighted in the appetiser if it's available – it's a vegan delicacy consumed in Japan’s Akita Prefecture which is reminiscent of fish caviar. The lunch ($98) and dinner ($168) sets come with eight and ten courses respectively, all with a strong focus on dishes that are healthy and nourishing.
Song Gye Ok

Song Gye Ok

4 out of 5 stars
Think Korean barbecue and thick strips of samgyeopsal (pork belly) or slabs of galbi (beef ribs) might come to mind. Song Gye Ok offers something entirely new to Singapore’s K-BBQ scene – grilled chicken over charcoal. Hailing straight from Seoul, the chain commands hour-long queues in the Korean capital, with even celebrities and TV food programs singing praises.  Its Singapore outlet is wedged in the buzzing Telok Ayer area, joining the company of other popular Korean barbecue outlets, so it must be doing something right to be earning snaking queues despite only offering one kind of protein on its menu. The restaurant manages to replicate the look and feel of its Korean counterparts, with dark-wooden tones, rustic design elements, and Hanok-inspired interiors. For a more immersive dining experience, snag a seat along the raised counter tables under makeshift huts to watch the staff grill up your meal right before you. If you’re dining in a big group, regular table seats are available too. Song Gye Ok’s claim to fame is its SGO signature grill platter (720 grams, $98) with six chicken cuts including rare parts like boneless chicken neck fillets, gizzards, hearts, and chicken breast softbone. The standard grill platter (470 grams, $68) does away with the boneless neck fillets, and both platters also include chicken thigh and tenders.  A word of caution: dining here isn’t for the fainthearted, especially those who might find chicken innards (gizzard) or hearts a tad grisly to

News (275)

A new private members' club is opening on the grounds of the former 1880 at Robertson Quay

A new private members' club is opening on the grounds of the former 1880 at Robertson Quay

Out with the old, in with the new – just three months after the established private members' club 1880 announced its sudden closure due to a lack of funds and its founder’s subsequent bankruptcy, another contender enters the scene. A new exclusive social club, The Nanson, is set to open on the former premises of 1880 at Robertson Quay in early October.  Backed by the same RB Group that owns the adjacent InterContinental Hotel, the club will take over the 22,000-square-foot location and offer members access to the hotel’s gym facilities and preferential room rates. The Nanson says its members will also be exposed to “intellectual, cultural and wellness content”, “industry-leading tech events” as well as “elevated dining experiences”.  And it’s already got its first event lined up: a dialogue session with Singaporean diplomat Kishore Mahbubani on geopolitical issues, set to take place on October 6. This continues in line with the high-profile guest appearances at 1880, which saw the likes of former Foreign Affairs Ministers George Yeo and diplomat Bilahari Kausikan, among other business leaders and cultural heavyweights. The Nanson will sport a fresh aesthetic, with a velvety, forest-green entryway and a shimmering gold logo. But not everything will be new. Most noticeably, the former 1880’s core team remains at the reins, including general manager Tsoler Jekalin, executive chef Colin Buchan and events director Sophie Fitsall.  Now, you may be wondering about the price of joini
This offbeat cocktail bar in Tiong Bahru turns kitchen trimmings into delicious drinks

This offbeat cocktail bar in Tiong Bahru turns kitchen trimmings into delicious drinks

You’d be forgiven for walking right past Dirty Sips. The pocket-sized bar by the team behind Dirty Supper isn’t trying to impress you with shiny signages or loud branding. Stashed away quietly behind fabric curtains, it instead grabs your attention with what really matters: what’s in the glass.  Most of Singapore’s experimental cocktail bars are located downtown in neighbourhoods like Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar, and most recently, New Bahru in River Valley. But Dirty Sips breaks the mould by setting up shop in sleepy, residential Tiong Bahru, more known for cafés and hawker fare, not cocktails.  Past the ember glow and retro-rustic charm of the main Dirty Supper dining area, the space inside Dirty Sips leans gritty and tactile. Mosaic tiles, graffiti art by Stefan Jude and exposed pipes give it that deliberately messy aesthetic. The bar glows with coiled LED lights overhead. And despite the slick look, the energy is anything but pretentious. After all, this is the kind of place where regulars get drinks named after them (hi, All the Wei). Photograph: Dirty Supper Bar manager Ricardo “Arjay” Abaleta is as warm and hospitable as ever, with over 13 years of experience in the industry. He most recently fronted Cote’s iconic jungle-inspired Millim Bar, but now runs Dirty Sips’ bold, low-waste cocktail programme, working together with Dirty Supper’s chef-owner Peter Smit to transform kitchen offcuts into 19 seriously good drinks.  There’s no sugar, boozy or sour spectrum here. Dir
Is this the most value-for-money wagyu beef steak in Singapore?

Is this the most value-for-money wagyu beef steak in Singapore?

Anyone who’s on the hunt for a good steak in Singapore would have heard about Steak Sudaku by now. The Japanese steakhouse opened along Killiney Road early this year and has since racked up a whopping 5000 reviews on Google, along with a loyal following. Diners return for the thick, affordable slabs of A5-grade Omi wagyu beef, of which the restaurant is the largest and sole importer in Singapore.  Steak Sudaku’s third outlet in Telok Ayer, which opened in April this year, is a step-up from the two others in Killiney Road and Beach Road, with a slightly more refined look and feel – albeit still very much on the casual end. It’s also the only outlet to offer a wine list, catering to business folks in the area.   Photograph: Steak Sudaku If you haven’t heard of Omi beef, it’s among the highest grades of beef in Japan, and has been enjoyed for a long time throughout history for its melty texture and buttery richness. Steak Sudaku prides itself on offering this luxurious cut from Shiga Prefecture at one-third the market price compared to other restaurants in the CBD. A regular A5 wagyu steak here is priced at $29.80, while the cheapest Omi beef meal on the menu starts from $17.80.  In the A5 Omi beef category, there are four selections ranging from $29.80 for 150 grams of regular wagyu to a whopping $216.80 for 200 grams of tenderloin. But the sweet spot for us is the 150-gram marbled steak ($39.80), which is neither too lean nor too fatty. Cut from the ribeye or sirloin, the sl
Score $10 cocktails and bar bites at Neon Pigeon from now till October 31

Score $10 cocktails and bar bites at Neon Pigeon from now till October 31

$10 cocktails? In this economy? Over at Clarke Quay, 50 Best Discovery bar Neon Pigeon rings in its 10th anniversary with the deal of the year – $10 cocktails and bar snacks – available from now till October 31.  Titled the Neon Pigeon Snack Attack, the limited-time menu will offer five snacks and five drinks, all at $10 each. These funky creations are meant to be as photoworthy as they are delish. Think a Nutella cocktail presented in a Nutella-inspired jar, spiked with vodka and kinako. Other drinks on the menu include the Singapo(rie) Sling; Chu-Hi with vodka, Aperol and passionfruit soda; Chiba Old Fash; and the Amaretti Sour. As for bar snacks, the team gets creative with creamy, springy udon noodles in an instant noodle cup, filled with smoked bacon, egg yolk and black pepper garlic crunch. And it gets wilder, with ramen nachos and wagyu chunks loaded with beef, chilli and molten cheese, sealed in a snack packet inspired by the popular childhood snack Mamee. Keep it simple but luxe with fish sticks and caviar, or munch on hearty squash croquettes or chicken schnitzel sandos. Just a heads up: each diner can only redeem one $10 item per visit, so make sure to choose well. Find out more about Neon Pigeon's 10th anniversary Snack Attack here. READ MORE: The 50 best bars in Singapore Temper, a new wine and cocktail lounge, turns up the style – and sound – at Duxton We tried this new Korean frozen yoghurt in Singapore just 10 minutes away from Yo-Chi
Temper, a new wine and cocktail lounge, turns up the style – and sound – at Duxton

Temper, a new wine and cocktail lounge, turns up the style – and sound – at Duxton

Your friends want a glass of red, you’re craving a tropical cocktail. For nights when you can’t decide between both, Temper, a new hotspot on Duxton Hill, isn’t asking you to choose. Opened by local F&B heavyweight Ebb & Flow Group – the same people behind wildly popular concepts like Casa Vostra, Carlitos and Chin Mee Chin Confectionery – this 4000 square feet, two-level space wears many hats: part wine bar, cocktail lounge and music venue.  Temper is split between two distinct areas: a snazzy wine room upstairs fit for quieter conversations and clinking glasses, and a buzzier cocktail lounge below, complete with a stellar music line-up curated by nightlife veteran Joshia Pillai (ex-Cé La Vi and Mandala Club). The interiors are moody and cinematic with Bauhaus charm – think arched portals, raw textures and sultry lighting.  Photograph: Temper Photograph: Temper | Wine lounge But before all that, it’s the impressive custom-built cellar at the entrance that greets you first. Over 2100 bottles and 1200 labels are housed here, with more than 30 countries represented. Forget staring blankly at a 20-page wine list, though. Temper’s wine programme caters to both connoisseurs and the curious, and you’ll find over 250 labels available by the glass – great for getting experimental without having to commit to a bottle.  The man behind Temper’s sprawling collection is Roberto Duran, former head sommelier of the private members’ wine club 67 Pall Mall. His approach leans more towards
We tried this new Korean frozen yoghurt in Singapore just 10 minutes away from Yo-Chi

We tried this new Korean frozen yoghurt in Singapore just 10 minutes away from Yo-Chi

Here’s something both millennials and Gen Zs can get behind: frozen yoghurt. Ever since Australian dessert chain Yo-Chi hit our shores, froyo has become our latest obsession. Hour-long queues? No problem. So when we heard that another yoghurt brand has opened at Scape, just walking distance from Yo-Chi at Orchard Central, we had to check it out.  Yoajung is a popular South Korean yoghurt chain which has around 350 outlets across Korea, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Sydney. If you’re plugged into K-culture, you’ll notice its multiple celebrity endorsements and occasional appearances in variety shows. But the big question: is it better than Yo-Chi? Here’s the lowdown.  The experience: We visited on a rainy Tuesday afternoon, and there was practically no queue. Meanwhile, you can expect a waiting time of at least 30 minutes on any given day at Yo-Chi. Do note that there is only one self-ordering kiosk at Yoajung and no sitting areas. Don’t come expecting a DIY experience either. While cups at Yo-Chi are charged by weight, Yoajung uses a standard pricing model with fixed prices for its yoghurt and toppings – more similar to what we’re used to at joints like Llao Llao and Yolé.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore The variety: There’s just frozen yoghurt or acai to decide between at Yoajung. Unlike the outlets in Korea, which offer signature yoghurt ice cream, a low-sugar version and Greek yoghurt, the Singapore store only serves the signature yoghurt. There are also no fixed combinations
Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel has a limited-time menu with Shanghainese dishes

Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel has a limited-time menu with Shanghainese dishes

Min Jiang at Goodwood Park Hotel has been a reliable favourite for decades, serving up its unique brand of Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine since 1982. This month, it’s switching things up a little in celebration of the hotel’s 125th anniversary. Expect new a la carte additions on the menu inspired by Master Chef Chan Hwan Kee’s recent travels to Shanghai, available for a limited time only until October 31.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore Start with a cold appetiser of fresh beancurd skin with scallions ($16). Silky smooth sheets of beancurd are doused in a light scallion sauce, with crunchy Chinese long beans underneath waiting to be unearthed. The marinated shrimp with rice wine-preserved plum ($38) is excellent, with prawns so fresh the shells slip off effortlessly. This cold dish is a unique spin on drunken prawns, using rice wine infused with preserved plum for a tangier, sweeter flavour. Photograph: Time Out Singapore Chef Chan’s crab roe bisque ($28 per person) is a nod to the xie huang (crab roe) trend currently taking over Shanghai’s food scene. His version is a hearty alternative, featuring the same Shanghainese hairy crab roe with generous shreds of crabmeat and potato cubes. It might be tempting to add vinegar, but the soup is best enjoyed on its own to taste the freshness of the crab. Photograph: Time Out Singapore The Shanghainese smoked pomfret fish ($148) is our favourite from this special menu, with chunks of smoked pomfret fried to a light crisp. The nugg
Jaan by Kirk Westaway celebrates 10 years in Singapore’s cutthroat fine dining scene

Jaan by Kirk Westaway celebrates 10 years in Singapore’s cutthroat fine dining scene

With the recent wave of Michelin-starred restaurant closures casting a shadow over Singapore’s F&B scene, the 10th anniversary of Jaan by Kirk Westaway feels especially worth celebrating. Making it to a decade in Singapore’s cutthroat fine dining industry is no small feat. Yet Jaan continues to stand tall – literally, 70 floors above ground at Swissôtel The Stamford – and be at the top of its game.  With its latest summer menu (from $198 for lunch and $388 for dinner), available until October 11, it’s clear that Chef Kirk isn’t cruising. He’s still experimenting and evolving, and still deeply nostalgic about his childhood in Devon, which forms the crux of the inspiration behind everything at the restaurant.  British food has long been dragged through the mud, labelled bland, repetitive, even uninspiring. So Jaan’s brand of modern British cuisine might raise some eyebrows. But don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore | Baby tomato tart, Goose Mousse The menu opens with a quartet of snacks. The baby tomato tart balances freshness with a slightly creamy base of house-made ketchup sauce and marjoram. Goose mousse with celeriac, which is our favourite, is a sweet-savoury combination of goose and chicken liver pâté with a hint of jamminess. While not officially part of the tasting menu, a cheeky nod to fish and chips also makes an appearance in the form of the crispiest mini rosti slice topped with caviar.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore | 'Fish and c
Our favourite affordable sushiya in Singapore just opened another outlet in the West

Our favourite affordable sushiya in Singapore just opened another outlet in the West

Remember that one sushiya in Funan that blew up in January this year for its value-for-money sashimi and handrolls? Sushi Zushi offers a unique, omakase-inspired dining experience where chefs prepare your food right before your eyes – except everything is ordered a la carte through a digital system, and, not to mention, at a fraction of the price at an omakase restaurant. Even months after opening, the sushi bar is still drawing long queues daily. Well, Westies need not travel all the way to town to enjoy premium sushi at affordable prices anymore, because Sushi Zushi has just opened a second outlet in Jurong East – a bigger and better one, no less. The restaurant, located on level 3 of Westgate, will sport a larger dining area and a new dining highlight: a genshi yaki charcoal grill.  Photograph: Sushi Zushi Genshi yaki is a traditional Japanese cooking method where seafood is skewered and grilled vertically over a sandpit using binchotan charcoal – something not commonly seen in Singapore. The grill is stationed quite prominently in the restaurant, so you’ll definitely get to watch the spectacle while you enjoy freshly grilled seasonal items like sea bream, miso cod and saba fish, or seafood like tiger prawns and scallops.  There’s also an expanded beverage menu at the Westgate outlet. Tapping on the expertise of its sister brand Omu Nomu Craft Sake & Raw Bar, the restaurant will feature a wider selection of sake, like the Daiginjo from Konohanano Brewery in Tokyo, and Re
This stylish Bukit Pasoh bar serves the ultimate martini and fries pairing in Singapore

This stylish Bukit Pasoh bar serves the ultimate martini and fries pairing in Singapore

Tucked away on the second floor of a restored 1930s shophouse, Gibson has always been a little off the radar, and that’s part of its charm. To find the bar, you’ll first have to spot the seafood restaurant Humpback along Bukit Pasoh Road, enter through a door on the side, walk past another cocktail bar (Live Twice) and climb up a flight of stairs. Upon entering, you’ll first notice a gorgeous green marble table, lit by the gentle glow radiating from stained-glass windows. Photograph: Gibson If you’ve been to Gibson any time in the last 10 years, you might remember the bar team’s unlikely get-up: tailored suits and bow ties paired with – you guessed it – bermudas. To mark its 10th year, the suit-and-shorts combo has been swapped for relaxed green overshirt jackets and comfy slacks. But attire aside, it’s the dusty pink 10th anniversary menu, called Timeless, that truly signals a new era for the bar.  Yes, the namesake Gibson cocktail ($28) remains – how could it not? The bar’s rendition of the classic dry martini is served at a chilling -15 degrees celsius, featuring Roku gin, house-made ginjo sake-vermouth and a pickled pearl onion garnish, accompanied by condiments of pickled pomelo, sliced pickled onion and smoked quail egg.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore | MF Martini and fries But that’s not what we’re here for. Instead, it’s the team’s shiny new creation, the MF Martini ($28), that comes highly recommended in this latest refresh. MF, short for “made for fries”, tells
I explored Singapore’s forgotten infectious disease hospital before it disappears – here’s why you should too

I explored Singapore’s forgotten infectious disease hospital before it disappears – here’s why you should too

It’s the middle of the Hungry Ghost Festival, and I’m standing in front of a vacant hospital in Novena that once treated some of Singapore’s deadliest infectious diseases – Smallpox, Cholera, the Bubonic Plague, Malaria, HIV, even SARS. I’m also keenly aware that in about 30 minutes, I’ll be setting foot into a morgue. I’m not superstitious, but still, sorry Mum. It’s just that I couldn’t pass up this rare opportunity to visit one of the most stigmatised yet fascinating places in Singapore’s history.  The yellowing buildings of the CDC – no, not the vouchers, but Singapore’s former Communicable Disease Centre – stand solemn beside Tan Tock Seng Hospital, long shuttered to the public and whispered about in hushed conversations with old taxi drivers, who refer to it as “Or Sai”, or the “Black Lion”. Ominous? Maybe a little. But as Stanley and Amanda, our tour organisers, tell us, the moniker has a practical origin: “communicable” was a mouthful for many in our parents’ generation, and the hospital’s emblem happened to be a black lion.  Photograph: Time Out Singapore | Black lion emblem at the gates of the CDC Hidden Heritage, a local company known for its tours of undiscovered spots like the Marsiling tunnels, Sembawang war bunkers and Singapore’s first airbase in Seletar, is now offering an exclusive tour of the CDC. And for the first time in years, members of the public are allowed to step into a place that was once heavily restricted and reserved for frontline healthcare w
I had dinner at a Michelin-starred Korean fine dining restaurant in Singapore – here’s how it went

I had dinner at a Michelin-starred Korean fine dining restaurant in Singapore – here’s how it went

When contemporary Korean restaurant Naeum debuted in 2021, chef-owner Louis Han began the ambitious and gruelling journey of serving episodic menus. That meant fully reinventing the wheel every few months with a brand new concept and new dishes each round. Nine menus, over a hundred dishes and a Michelin star later, it seemed about time that the restaurant and Chef Louis himself stepped into a new era. Enter Naeum 2.0. While many fine dining establishments in Singapore are opening casual offshoots or dialling back on the formalities to cater to shifting customer tastes, Naeum seems to be going the opposite direction. What started as a more casual, homely space with traditional hanok interior elements has gotten a facelift. The restaurant now presents as an elegant 24-seater inspired by the sinhanok, or modern hanok. This update reflects diners’ rising expectations of Chef Louis and his team, especially after their big one-Michelin-star win in 2022.   Photograph: Naeum     And no, the latest menu isn’t episode 10, but rather, Season 2, which Chef titles Moments. Think of it as a culmination of his work at Naeum over the last four years and an expression of where his cooking now stands – that is, borderless and globally influenced but firmly rooted in Korean flavours. While the previous episodes dove deep into themes like hwagyo (Korean-Chinese cuisine) or reimagining the classic frontyard barbecue, Moments will show more breadth, and present, well, significant moments of Che