Nicole-Marie Ng

Drinking in Singapore is definitely not cheap. An average price of a pint here is $12 and a cocktail runs between $22 to $30. But that doesn't mean that you can't score a good deal at some of Singapore's top drinking holes. We scour the island for the best happy hour deals so you don't burn a hole in your pocket. What are you waiting for? Finish that project, grab your friends, and get ready for a little day drinking.  RECCOMENDED: Cheap eats under $20 in Singapore and the best affordable lunch sets in the CBD

Whether you’re a visitor planning your very first visit to Singapore, or a Singaporean mapping out a special occasion in the city, choosing a hotel in Singapore is an important (and sometimes overwhelming) task. With so many spectacular stays to choose between – from the world-famous Raffles to new boutique stays like 21 Carpenter – it can be challenging to decide which is best for you. To help you determine which hotel to book for your next visit or staycation, our team of local editors (including Time Out Singapore Editor Cheryl Sekkappan, Regional Content Director for Time Out APAC Nicole-Marie Ng and local writer Dewi Nurjuwita) have tried and tested the city’s top-ranking hotels to determine which are worth your time.The list has been overseen by Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC and self-confessed hotel obsessive. Each hotel has been chosen based on amenities, design and proximity to the city’s highlights – with many hotels on the list within walking distance of the best restaurants and bars in Singapore.Read on for our guide to the very best hotels in Singapore right now. RECOMMENDED: The best Singapore attractions to visitThe best rooftop bars in SingaporeAirport hotels in SingaporeThe best luxury hotels in Singapore At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on to

Not everyone has the willpower to go to bed with an empty stomach, and if you’re here, chances are you don’t either. Lucky for us, Singapore’s food scene never really sleeps. Whether it’s a post-drinks refuel, hunger pangs after a late-night work grind, or just a case of the midnight munchies, there’s always a spot to hit up. From old-school hawker classics to round-the-clock diners and even bubbling hotpot joints that stay open till sunrise, these supper spots will keep you well-fed way past bedtime. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore after dark and The best free things to do in Singapore at night 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.

If you really want to experience local life at its most authentic when exploring a new city, the best thing you can do is take to the streets. And no, not that one major thoroughfare with the samey high street megastores and generic coffee shops. We’re talking about the neighbourhood backstreets and lively avenues that locals love; the places packed with independent shops and creative people, where a brand-new hi-fi listening bar will share the space with an old-school grocer or a centuries-old pub.  This year, to create our annual ranking of the world’s coolest streets, we asked our global network of local editors and experts to nominate the street that epitomises the very best of their city. Time Out’s global travel team then narrowed down the list and ranked each street against criteria including food, drink, culture, fun and community spirit.  From Saturday samba sessions in Rio de Janeiro to a shapeshifting shopping street in Osaka, every avenue, alleyway and side street on this year’s ranking is unique to its hometown. Walking their length is like taking a stroll through the city in miniature, getting a taste of what makes life there brilliant – from food and culture to shopping and nightlife.  Did your favourite street make the list? Read on to find out. RECOMMENDED: 🏘️ The world’s coolest neighbourhoods in 2025🌆 The world’s best cities in 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for the latest travel news and the best stuff happening a

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. November 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.

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  

Perth's pizza game has levelled up over the past few years, and we now have everything from Neapolitan and Roman-style pizzas to New York slices and our very own Aussie creations. Whether they're woodfired in purpose-built ovens or crisped to perfection in specialist electric and stone ovens, Perth's best pizza features the freshest and finest ingredients from Australia and abroad. Family-owned Monsterella is a fan favourite for its naturally risen 48-hour dough, while Il Locale Pizzeria is so popular that it's expanded to six locations across Western Australia. Here, in no particular order, are some of the best pizzas in Perth, as chosen by our local dough experts. 🍝 The best Italian restaurants in Perth🍔 The best burgers in Perth🍷 The best bars in Perth

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.

Food wonderland, garden city, and shopping heaven – Singapore's got all the sweet spots covered. Shopping, in particular, is a sport we take pretty seriously here – and there's no shortage of options. From boutiques shops to vintage stores and warehouses, we've picked out the best stores and shops for fashion, lifestyle, homeware, hobbies and more for you to check out. Hold on to your wallets and cards because the shopaholics will go wild.  RECOMMENDED: Where to shop for eco-friendly products in Singapore and the best home decor and furniture stores in Singapore    

The ninth edition of the Michelin Guide Singapore was revealed in July 2025, and our little red dot continued to put up an impressive showing, with one restaurant promoted to two Michelin stars and another earning its first. The Michelin Guide uses five criteria to assess these restaurants: mastery of technique; quality of ingredients; chef's personality; value for money; and consistency. Restaurants that are new additions in their categories will be assigned an asterisk (*) in the list below. Whether you’re on the search for new places to feast at or simply looking to be inspired by an exceptional dining experience, this list spotlighting some of the best restaurants in Singapore is a great place to start. For more value-for-money eats, check out these other restaurants and hawkers in Singapore that were awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2025. RECOMMENDED: Read our guides on the 50 best restaurants and 50 best bars in Singapore 

In a city like Singapore with a staggering 100-over hawker centres peppered across the country, having 'nothing to eat' is never a problem. Our trusty hawkers provide us with endless options of affordable and downright delicious meals. And for our friends from abroad: these bustling, open-air food centres are where locals truly dine. We've done the hard work and rounded up the best of the best in this list – no gimmicks, no inflated prices – just good, old-fashioned hawker fare, prepared by seasoned hands and often perfected over decades. Of course, there's some promising young blood in the line-up too. From stalwarts in Telok Ayer and Chinatown to underrated hawker centres in Queenstown and Clementi, these beloved spots are as close as it gets to Singapore’s culinary soul. And while you're eating like a local, do act like one too – don’t forget to return your trays and clear your tables. It’s more than just good manners; it’s mandatory. RECOMMENDED: 50 hawker stalls in Singapore recommended by Time Out and 10 vanishing heritage foods in Singapore to try before they're gone

Whether you’re looking for all the fresh seafood on ice you can eat, grilled meats fresh off the barbecue or just a free-flowing booze parade, these brunch buffets have got you covered. Savour opulent buffet spreads with your family, or head to an adults-only boozy brunch and take relaxing to a whole new level. So save your coffee and boring oats for the weekdays and look forward to a luxurious brunch, because you deserve it – free-flow champagne optional. RECOMMENDED: The best brunch spots in Singapore and The best tea rooms in Singapore for afternoon tea

North Point isn’t the neighbourhood most travellers bookmark when planning a Hong Kong stay – and that’s precisely why Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour feels like such a smart choice. This eastern stretch of Hong Kong Island still hums with everyday local life, from wet markets and tram-lined streets to old-school dessert shops that haven’t changed in decades. It’s well connected by the Island Line, yet far enough from Central and Causeway Bay that you’re not constantly dodging crowds. Staying here feels less like ticking off landmarks and more like slipping into the city’s daily rhythm. Hyatt Centric leans hard into that idea of neighbourhood discovery. At check-in, guests receive a thoughtfully curated booklet of North Point vouchers, encouraging you to wander and redeem complimentary local snacks at nearby family-run businesses. It’s a small but meaningful gesture that nudges you off the hotel grounds and into the community, while putting money back into local pockets. Why stay at Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour Hong Kong? This is a big hotel, and it announces itself as such. Two towers are connected internally, and not every lift serves every floor – something that can feel mildly disorienting if you’re arriving late at night or jet-lagged. Thankfully, the hotel counters this with a charmingly illustrated map handed out at check-in, which quickly becomes essential reading. Hyatt Centric really comes into its own is during the day. Natural light floods the public areas, and

There are very few hotels in Hong Kong that still channel old-school city glamour without feeling stuck in the past. The Grand Hyatt Hong Kong is one of them. First opened in 1989, it belongs to a generation of hotels that were built to impress – grand, spacious and designed to signal that old money wealth. After a four-year, multi-million-dollar renovation completed in 2018, it remains a reassuring constant in a city that has changed fast. You approach the hotel up a gentle rise, away from the street, and step into a lobby that transports you back in time. The space opens into a vast, three-storey hall with oversized floral arrangements, fountains and polished marble surfaces that catch the light. There’s a strong feng shui sensibility at work here, from the water features to the careful symmetry of the space. Curving staircases sweep up to the mezzanine level, while period-style décor and grand columns nod to the art deco era. Why stay at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong? The Grand Hyatt Hong Kong excels at scale without sacrificing polish. It’s a large hotel, yes, but it runs with the confidence of a place that knows exactly who it is. It’s a classic luxury hotel that caters equally well to business travellers, families and leisure guests. Its recent renovations have updated the bones without erasing the personality. The glamour is intact, but softened and modernised where it counts. For travellers who want space, views and full-service facilities – and who appreciate a hotel tha

When I mention to a few Hong Kongers that I’m staying at Lanson Place Causeway Bay, the response is almost always the same: a polite pause, followed by ‘Oh, I don’t think I’ve heard of it.’ Which was surprising to me, given the hotel has been open since 2005. But the reaction makes sense. Lanson Place is tucked discreetly along Leighton Road and easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. There’s no towering façade or flashy driveway announcing its presence. Overlooking it would be a genuine mistake. Especially since the hotel reopened in March 2024 after an extensive, top-to-bottom refurbishment, and following a sixteen-month transformation led by French interior design heavyweight Pierre-Yves Rochon, it has re-emerged as one of my favourite places to stay in Hong Kong – a refined, residential-feeling retreat right in the thick of the city. Why stay at Lanson Place Causeway Bay? This is a hotel that understands the value of understatement. Lanson Place leans into a sense of calm, discretion and comfort that feels increasingly rare in Hong Kong. The design draws on French residential elegance – soft colours, tactile materials and carefully considered lighting. Public spaces like L’Orangerie and Salon Lanson retain a sense of grand-hotel polish, while the rooms feel deliberately domestic, like a very well-appointed home. First impressions set the tone. A bellhop takes my bags before I even think about it, and there’s no stiff wait at a reception desk. Instead, I’m guided to a

The St. Regis Singapore has long been one of the city’s most polished luxury addresses. After a year-long, multi-phased renovation, it returns refreshed and recalibrated for what luxury looks like now. At first glance, not much appears to have changed. The familiar sense of calm still settles over you the moment you step into the lobby. But linger a little longer and it becomes clear: things feel lighter, quieter and more considered. This is The St. Regis Singapore, evolved. Why stay at The St. Regis Singapore? Rather than chasing trends, the redesign refines what the hotel has always done best – discretion, comfort and understated grandeur. Anything overly decorative or dated has been stripped away. Luxury here is no longer about gilded drama; it’s about restraint. The location remains one of its strongest assets. Set just off Orchard Road on the calmer Tanglin stretch, you get convenience without the chaos. The city’s main retail stretch is close enough for a quick dip-in, while the Singapore Botanic Gardens – now clearly woven into the hotel’s identity – sit just a short walk away. What are the rooms like at The St. Regis Singapore? The transformation is most obvious upstairs. The refreshed guest rooms move decisively away from the old Parisian-palace aesthetic. Gone are the red velvet sofas, heavy carpeting and ornate gold trims. In their place is something far more contemporary but no less beautiful. Inspired by the nearby Botanic Gardens, the rooms feature soft botanic

Walk into Encore by Rhubarb today and the first thing you notice isn’t the refreshed room, it’s Chef Paul Longworth at the door, still greeting every guest with the same warmth he’s carried since the restaurant first opened in 2014. Back then, Rhubarb Le Restaurant was an intimate fine-dining darling founded by Longworth and his long-time front-of-house partner, French maître d’ Jérôme Desfonds, both alumni of Au Petit Salut. Even in those early years, the pair were lauded for their earnest service, technically pristine modern European plates and genuinely fair pricing – traits that feel increasingly rare in Singapore’s fine-dining landscape. A decade on, Rhubarb has evolved once more. When the quiet hush of white-tablecloth dining began losing steam – and when Rhubarb itself sometimes saw empty rooms – Longworth listened. Diners wanted something more relaxed and social, without losing the precision that made the restaurant beloved in the first place. So he pivoted. The Michelin star may have disappeared during the rebrand, but the standards have not. The menu is still surprisingly accessible: $48 for lunch, $88 for dinner. It’s a bold move in this economy, but one that feels true to Rhubarb’s founding values. The renovation mirrors the shift – gone are the draped tables and formal symmetry of the old room; in their place, a brighter, more contemporary dining space built for conversation rather than ceremony, with sleek blue banquettes and photographs of Singapore icons on th

Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge isn’t trying to compete with London’s five-star grande dames. With 1,023 rooms and suites, this hotel caters to the masses and is built for travellers who prioritise space, practicality and location over bellhops and whistles. Inside, the lobby is buzzing and the hotel’s signature scent hangs thick in the air. On my visit, a Tanzanian conference had taken over the ground-floor event space with delegates moving about with purpose. The vibe is energetic in that big-business, big-hotel sort of way. What are the rooms like at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge? You’ll encounter the hotel’s quirkiest design choice before you even reach your room. The corridor carpet – a chaotic print of words in various fonts, sizes and colours straight out of the "live, laugh, love" era – is visually… memorable. The in-room carpet shares the same design, alongside acrylic walls printed with motifs like ballerina dancers and flowers. While I can't say that the hotel's design choices resonate with my personal aesthetic, the view from my Studio Room is undeniably gorgeous. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. The room's layout is also smart and generous, with a separate seating area with a sofa bed that can fit two kids. There's also a microwave, a 49-inch Chromecast-enabled TV and an iron and ironing board, which makes it an ideal pick for slightly longer stays. There are other thoughtful comforts, too. The bed is

There are probably over a thousand hotels in London, but only eight of them hold the coveted Three Michelin Keys. The Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is one of that elite group – and having stayed in more hotels than I can count across London and beyond, I wanted to understand what puts this particular property in such rarefied company. So why stay at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane? Let’s start with a little context. The hotel stands on the original site of Four Seasons Inn on the Park, the brand’s first European property outside of Canada, which opened in the 1970s. Today, nothing about it feels retro or past its prime. It’s grand without being loud, elegant without being stuffy, and clearly designed for the modern traveller who values comfort and convenience over pomp. The aesthetic blends the glamour of the 1930s golden age of travel with everything a luxury hotel guest expects today. The rooftop spa and lounge are a highlight in their own right, offering sweeping views of Hyde Park and Westminster. Even if you’re not a spa person, it’s one of those places that will make you stop and stare. What are the rooms like at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane? The hotel has 196 rooms, including 43 suites, yet it still manages to feel intimate thanks to smart layouts and generous natural light. I stayed in the Mayfair Suite, which is modern, thoughtfully designed and makes excellent use of its 603sqft. The living room features floor-to-ceiling windows with a

When I first arrived at the Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, there was a part of me that wanted to cry. I’d just stepped out of a seven-hour flight and the thought of lugging two overstuffed suitcases up the short stairs to get to the lobby somehow really broke me. But before I could even attempt the first heave, a sharply dressed bellhop appeared, almost as if I’d made a wish. “No, no, you don’t carry anything, ma’am,” he smiled. “You’re at a five-star hotel. Put your feet up.” And just like that, all the travel-related stress instantly melted away. Why stay at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge? This is old-school London luxury at its absolute finest. The building dates back to 1922, a former Port of London Authority headquarters that’s now been restored with grand marble and soft lighting. The location is a dream with the river at your doorstep and Tower Bridge right there too. Morning walks feel cinematic in that misty London sort of way and there’s also the added convenience of being right next to Tower Hill Station, which makes exploring the rest of the city a breeze. What are the rooms like at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge? Despite the building’s imposing exterior, the hotel has just 110 rooms, so it never feels busy. I stayed in a one-bedroom deluxe suite that felt more like a plush London residence. Just 958sqft of quiet, elegant comfort, complete with a dining table, a spacious living area, and a fireplace I would’ve loved to use if it

You can’t really miss the Hilton New York Midtown. It’s one of those landmark hotels that’s been part of the city’s skyline for more than 60 years. The scale is staggering—over 1,800 guest rooms and 36 meeting rooms spread across 150,000 square feet of event space. But for what it lacks in boutique personality, it makes up for in location. You’re right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, close enough to Broadway, Rockefeller Center, and Central Park to walk there in minutes and well connected to the rest of the city by subway. It’s the hotel version of a sure thing: no surprises, no stress, just a comfortable, central base for taking on New York. Why stay at Hilton New York Midtown? If you like the idea of a smooth, fuss-free stay, this is your pick. You know exactly what you’re walking into—clean rooms, crisp sheets, and a brand that’s mastered the business-meets-leisure crowd. In a city that overwhelms you with options, there’s something comforting about a hotel that simply works. Rooms are generously sized by New York standards and the experience runs like clockwork. It’s a solid, no-drama choice for travellers who’d rather spend their energy exploring the city than deciphering how the light switches work. What are the rooms like at Hilton New York Midtown? My City Room had large windows overlooking Midtown’s towers, a plush bed, a proper work desk and a sofa that made catching up on emails bearable. The fittings lean more “classic corporate” than “boutique chic” but overal

You know you’re in the Lower East Side when you’re walking back from dinner, a little tipsy from too many cocktails, and there’s still a full-blown street carnival unfolding outside your hotel. This isn’t just the city that never sleeps, it’s the neighborhood that refuses to even nap. And from my room at the Moxy Lower East Side, I could practically hear the rhythm of it all: the muffled bass from the hotel’s subterranean club, the hum of live music drifting up the hall and the unmistakable call of a city that lives for the night. A lot of hotels promise the New York experience, but the Moxy NYC Lower East Side actually delivers. Opened in late 2022, this 303-room stay by the Marriott-owned Moxy brand sits at the crossroads of SoHo and the Lower East Side, and comes fully loaded with a Japanese restaurant, piano lounge, underground club, and rooftop bar. The design channels the LES’s with a catwalk-style entrance that sets the tone for the mischief inside. Why stay at Moxy Lower East Side? If you love nightlife, art, and a bit of chaos with your morning coffee, Moxy LES is your playground. But beyond the buzz, there’s substance. Every corner feels considered—from the candy stand curated by LES institution Economy Candy (sweets for 5¢ a piece, old-school style) to the curated cultural programming featuring local DJs, artists, and pop-ups. What are the rooms like at Moxy Lower East Side? Like most Manhattan hotel rooms, these ones are small but smart. I stayed in a King Room (1

“Are you staying at the Moxy in Chelsea?” my colleague asked the moment I logged into our morning meeting from New York. Apparently, just the view of the skyline behind me gave it away. The Moxy NYC Chelsea has become something of a shorthand for business travellers who want convenience without surrendering style. And judging from the crowd in the lobby—millennials in tailored suits juggling oat lattes and laptops—it’s clear I wasn’t the only one there mixing work with play. Why stay at Moxy NYC Chelsea? The Moxy NYC Chelsea isn’t a regular hotel—it’s a cool hotel. The check-in desks float on swings tethered to the ceiling. The entrance doubles as a lush flower shop. The bar glows in jewel tones, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and a living plant wall that begs to be photographed. Even the showers are cheeky, tiled with phrases like “some regrets” and “wild thing.” This 35-storey glass-and-steel tower in Manhattan’s historic Flower District is every bit as bold as the neighbourhood around it. The vibe? Stylish yet unpretentious. The crowd? A mix of young professionals and creative types who want their hotel to feel like a scene. What are the rooms like at Moxy NYC Chelsea? Let’s get one thing out of the way: the rooms are small. My King Room measured just 190 square feet—enough to drop your bags, spin around once, and call it home. But what it lacks in space, it more than makes up for in smarts. Every inch of the Moxy’s 349 guest rooms is cleverly designed. There are

The day I checked into the Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago, there was a smash-and-grab at the nearby Louis Vuitton on Michigan Avenue. You can probably imagine my culture shock – having just arrived from one of the world’s safest cities, Singapore. The glass façade of the boutique was shattered, the truck used in the attack was still parked outside, and various news crews were all stationed outside. I was shaken, not quite sure what I’d signed up for staying here, or even coming to Chicago at all. But the moment I stepped through the revolving doors of the Millennium Knickerbocker, a booming voice called out, “You must be checking in!” It was the hotel’s chatty concierge legend, Craig. “Crazy what’s going on out there,” I said, still reeling. He smiled and shrugged. “When you’ve been doing this as long as I have, nothing phases you. It’ll all be okay.” And I have to say, he was right. There’s a certain character that comes with staying in a place like the MK, a hotel with nearly a century of stories built into its bones. The lobby smells faintly floral, thankfully not like an old building (which, given its age, is a small miracle). And it may sit in one of Chicago’s poshest neighborhoods, but it doesn’t come with the sticker shock of its five-star neighbors. You get the Magnificent Mile experience without the Magnificent Mile price. It’s mostly a safe neighborhood, but sometimes you have to expect the unexpected. Why stay at the Millennium Hotel Knickerbocker Chicago? First,

If the name didn’t already give it away, The Sukhothai Shanghai is the sister hotel to Bangkok’s renowned luxury property. But his isn’t a Thai resort transposed onto Chinese soil. Instead, Shanghai’s version is darker, moodier and far more minimalist, swapping gold-trimmed motifs for polished grey stone, warm silks, brushed brass accents and a contemporary aesthetic. From the moment you walk into the lobby, you notice the restraint. It’s sophisticated without being cold, and somehow manages to create a little bubble of serenity despite sitting inside one of the busiest districts in the city. Step outside and you’re seconds from a luxury mall, hip cafés, restaurants and some of Shanghai’s best bars; step inside and the light dims and everything slows down. Photograph: The Sukhothai ShanghaiPremier king room What are the rooms like at The Sukhothai Shanghai? I stayed in a Premier Room, a spacious, angled layout that felt a little unconventional at first, especially with some strategically placed mirrors that made the room feel bigger than it actually is. It’s a mid-tier room but carries the polish of something more premium thanks to its modern design. The king bed is plush and comfortable, and there’s a proper work desk for those travelling on business. The bathroom is wrapped in sleek grey marble and has an enclosed shower-and-tub zone that feels more like a personal sauna. The rainfall shower has excellent pressure, though the handheld spray isn’t as strong. It’s also wort

Big JJ Seafood Hotpot, the lively, always-buzzing Hong Kong–style hot pot spot on Wo On Lane, has confirmed to Time Out that they’ll be leaving their current address from Chinese New Year in 2026. Known for its fun, high-energy service, fresh cuts of beef and house-made specials, Big JJ has built a loyal following since opening in 2020. Guests come for their huge variety of broths, bouncy homemade fish balls, freshly fried fish skin and a surprisingly deep wine list – with everything from natural wines to interesting back vintages like a 1992 Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Not what you would usually expect from a hotpot restaurant, but one of the many reasons why we love it. Photograph: Nicole-Marie Ng for Time OutBig JJ Seafood Hotpot The team tells us the move is driven mainly by the condition of the current building. “The structure and quality just aren’t ideal,” they say. Space has also been an ongoing issue: “We don’t have enough seats now. The new location will have a much better and bigger kitchen to support demand. Hopefully, we can elevate the food offering to another level.” While the exact address hasn’t been revealed yet, Big JJ confirms they will stay in core Central, with a projected reopening around March 2026. The new spot is expected to be larger, with upgraded facilities and more room to grow. We’ll share more details as they come. For now, if you want a last round at the original Wo On Lane space, make sure to go before CNY.

Finding peace and quiet in Singapore can sometimes feel like trying to spot a hornbill in the HDB heartlands – rare and fleeting but not impossible. Tucked away in the east lies a serene, little-known patch of wild greenery where dirt paths replace concrete and bird calls drown out the rumble of MRT trains whizzing by. What is Tampines Eco Green? Tampines Eco Green is a 36.5-hectare park that's as close to untouched nature as it gets in this part of town. Unlike the other more manicured parks of Singapore, Tampines Eco Green is made up of marshlands, secondary forests and freshwater ponds. It opened in 2011 and is a popular spot among bird-watchers, nature lovers and anyone looking for a bit of peace without leaving the neighbourhood. Where is Tampines Eco Green? The triangular park is located between Tampinese Avenue 9 and 12, the TPE expressway and Sungei Tampinese canal. It's easy enough to get to, with entrances along Ave 12 and via Sun Plaza Park, and it’s linked to the broader park connector network if you're on foot or two wheels. What can I see at Tampines Eco Green? Plenty, actually. According to NParks, there are more than 75 species of birds here, including herons, parakeets, weavers and hornbills. During our walk, we also spotted butterflies, a tree snake, chickens and a whole gang of terrapins sunning themselves near the marsh. Look out for rustic touches like recycled-wood benches, signage made to blend into the landscape and Singapore’s first waterless compo

There's a sleek, new, all-black cocktail cave carved into Elgin Street. Instead of the industrial minimalism or mid-century modern interior palettes we've seen pop up throughout the city, something about Bar Mind feels both organic and primal. The walls are layered with stone-like textures, shadows flicker across jagged surfaces, and the bar's central light fixture acts like a “skylight” opening in the ceiling of this cavern. The effect is intimate and theatrical, the perfect stage for bartenders Jo Lo and Birstacla Wong, two of Hong Kong's most accomplished bartending talents. They're both winners of Diageo World Class Hong Kong & Macau and not just partners in business, but partners in life. Photograph: Bar MindBirstacla Wong (Left) and Jo Lo (Right) They built Bar Mind on a shared belief that every drink should start with intention. And as the latest bartenders of their generation to open their own space, they’ve ensured that Cantonese flavours form the core of the menu. The drinks lean layered, and cerebral – cocktails built for people who want to think about what they're drinking. The drinks The Cha Chaan Teng is a tribute to the local classic poached egg in hot water, arriving with a delicate quail egg shell made of white chocolate and filled with passion fruit syrup, delicately placed in a nest. The rum and passion fruit bring tropical brightness, and the tomato adds acidity, making this an excellent first drink to refresh the palate. Photograph: Nicole-Marie Ng for

My Didi driver looked genuinely puzzled when he saw where I was staying. “Most tourists prefer Chunxi Road or Tianfu Square,” he said, name-dropping Chengdu’s usual city-centre hotspots. For a split second, I wondered if I’d made a mistake choosing Yiu Teung Mansion as my home base. But the moment we pulled into the property, any doubt vanished. Not only had we passed several of his recommended spots on the way in, the hotel itself was also absolutely stunning. Step through the gates – lined with fragrant osmanthus trees in full bloom – and you’re met with a quiet, refined grandeur you simply won’t find anywhere near the main tourist drag. Why stay at Yiu Teung Mansion The courtyard alone is worth booking a room for. A cinematic blend of East and West, it’s an elegant, wedding-worthy backdrop framed by Chinese architectural details and European flourishes. Yiu Teung Mansion stands out precisely because it doesn’t feel like a typical city hotel. It’s intimate, design-driven and richly atmospheric, with a strong sense of place. Inside, the pace of Chengdu softens into something gentler – garden pathways, manicured greenery, Republic-era notes, French-style courtyards. It has impeccable style, but also depth and character. What are the rooms like at Yiu Teung Mansion? My king room came with a full study area, a three-seater sofa and large French windows opening into the courtyard. Design-wise, the rooms land beautifully between modern luxury and subtle heritage touches. You get

Every year, the world’s best bartenders descend on the World Class global stage to battle for the industry’s highest honour: World Class Bartender of the Year. This year’s global finals took place in Toronto, where 51 national champions took over the Fairmont Royal York for three intense days of competition. The finalists faced a series of rigorous challenges designed to test every facet of modern bartending. Among them: Hop Scotch with Johnnie Walker Black Label, where competitors reimagined three whisky classics, one long, one short, one up; The Modern Icon with Tanqueray No. TEN, which tasked bartenders to create a new modern classic inspired by a golden moment in history; The Digital Galería with Don Julio 1942, an immersive evening pairing mini cocktails with personalised AI-generated artworks; The Sensory Sessions with The Singleton of Dufftown 21 Year Old, blending music and mixology as bartenders designed a record sleeve, pressed a track and presented a signature Singleton cocktail to match; and Farmhouse with Ketel One, a high-pressure mystery challenge giving bartenders just 30 minutes to create the perfect serve after being assigned a surprise ingredient, from carrots and coffee to grapes and apples. The top 10 then advanced to the semi-final Bartenders’ Banquet, where they had to curate a three-course drinks menu to pair alongside a vegetarian lunch set with an aperitif featuring Seedlip, a main-course cocktail with a spirit of choice, and a digestif made with Zac

Something is stirring in Southeast Asia. Sure, Singapore and Bangkok have long been major cocktail cities, but there’s a fresh wave of talent rising fast from Manila, Hanoi and Bali. A new generation of bartenders who are bold, inventive and ready to claim their place on the global stage. That spirit was on full display at the 2025 Diageo World Class Global Final, now in its 16th year. Fifty-one bartenders from around the world – each the best in their home country – descended on Toronto to compete for the title of Global Bartender of the Year. And among them were bartenders representing Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore. We caught up with the five Southeast Asian contenders to talk about what they learned from the experience, what’s next for them at their home bars, and why their cities deserve a spot on your bar-hop itinerary. Nguyen Ngoc Khanh – Hudson Rooms, Hanoi, Vietnam For Nguyen Ngoc Khanh, World Class was less a competition and more a platform for global dialogue. "For me, bartending is not just about technique," he says, "it's a conversation about ideas. I wanted to test my philosophy that a bartender is a global artist who can use their unique heritage as a specific tool, rather than a defining label on the world stage." His most memorable challenge during the World Class Global Final was the Don Julio 1942 Digital Galería, where bartenders crafted mini cocktails inspired by AI-generated artworks. “Instead of a live performance, it was a

After months of fierce competition, Singapore has crowned its new World Class Bartender of the Year. At last night’s finale held at Baia, Tryson Quek, the affable chef-turned-bartender and owner of Side Door, emerged as the winner of one of the country’s most prestigious cocktail competitions. He beat out a strong field of finalists: Marco Maiorano (КОМА), Zana Möhlmann (Manhattan), Kelvin Saquilayan (Republic Bar), Ooi Foo Giap (Last Word), and Sam Pang (Night Hawk), who each brought their own distinct style and skill to the competition.   Photograph by: Matthias Chng   This year’s final unfolded in two parts, designed to push the boundaries of innovation, speed and bartending finesse. First up was the Drink to the Future challenge, which asked contestants to imagine what the world of cocktails might look like in the decades to come. Their creations had to incorporate either Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Don Julio 1942, or Zacapa XO, and make use of technology. What we saw was a forward-looking display of imagination: plants turned into music to suggest a future where we might converse with our food, magnetic stirrers and ultrasonic infusers aimed at improving bar efficiency, and thoughtful ingredients like hydroponically grown tomatoes and carbon-capturing seaweed that point towards a more sustainable approach to drinking.   Photograph: Matthias Chng   Next came The Showdown, a speed challenge that tested both composure and technical skill. Finalists had five minutes to sh

Hello Singapore,  Back in March, Time Out changed its name to Time In. We probably don’t need to go through all the reasons why, right? But now that Singapore’s done with the circuit breaker and life is slowly returning back to the city, we’re here to help you navigate the call-it-whatever-you-want “normal”. Don’t get us wrong. We’re not saying to throw caution to the wind – or your masks up in the air – and act like the past six months haven’t fundamentally changed us forever. And while it’s been great to see everyone come together to sing Home and celebrate our healthcare workers, more still needs to be done for those that need our help.  Since 1968, Time Out has always been on the mission to seek out the city’s best restaurants, cafés, bars, hawkers, shops, galleries, theatres, music venues, nightclubs – and all the other local independently run places where people come together. We share these places with you because we know without them, life in Singapore would be plain boring. But due to months of lost revenue and the steep cost of operating a business, many of these venues are at risk of closing forever if we don’t rally behind them. In fact, some already have.  The beauty of a small city like Singapore is that you don’t have to go very far to help. While most of us continue working from home, use this opportunity to look at your neighbourhood with fresh eyes through our handy guides. You might just discover a new favourite spot and save a business while you’re at it.

シンガポールは、道に並ぶ緑豊かな熱帯雨林の植物のおかげで、昔から「ガーデンシティ」として知られている。そのため、地元では「サーキットブレイカー」とも呼ばれた約2カ月のロックダウンの期間中、外の雰囲気を家にも持ち込みたいという欲求が多くの人のなかで高まってきたのは当然のことだろう。 今、シンガポールではさびたガーデニングツールを再び手に取り、家庭菜園で野菜や果物を育て始める人が急増している。高層アパートにある狭い家でも、その現象は見られる。どうやら彼らは、単に園芸スキルをアップさせたいと思って土いじりを始めたわけではなようだ。 自家栽培の農産物を販売する小規模ビジネス、WWEdiblesの創設者であるジョアンナ・チューア（写真上）は、みんなが家に閉じこもっていたロックダウンが、シンガポールで食べられる植物を育てる人が増えたきっかけになったと指摘。 「ロックダウンの間、特定の苗屋で買う必要のあるモンスタラスやアロカシアスのような観賞植物を、外へ出かけて求めることはできませんでした。その代わり、種から野菜などを育てる簡単な方法が注目されたわけです」と家庭菜園が増加した理由を説明した。 シンガポールの園芸家で、Insgtamアカウント（@briansgardenadventures）を通じて熱帯植物の情報を発信している、ブライアン・ティアンは、シンガポールでの植物栽培について「家庭での野菜栽培には多くの関心と熱意があるのを感じますが、適切な指導を受けられる機会はあまりありません。シンガポールでの園芸は簡単なことではありません。手をかけた植物が枯れてしまい、がっかりすることもあるでしょう」と現状を分析する。 シンガポールにおける園芸のトレンドとその背景にある根深い動機はなにか。二人のアーバンな土いじりの専門家に聞いた。   Brian ThianPhotograph: Kashmira Kasmuri     1. シンプルに、おいしい 誰にとっても、家庭菜園を始める第一の理由は単純なものだ。自分の手で育てたものを食べたいからだ。「私は食べることが大好きなので、自宅で収穫できるというアイデアは刺激的でした」と、ブライアンは家庭菜園を始めた頃の魅力をこう話す。 しかし土地が乏しいシンガポールでは、持てる生活空間の全てをフル活用しているため、新たに菜園環境を作るのは非常に困難だ。ジョアンナは植物を植えるために、自然光がたっぷり入る狭い屋上の庭も利用。ブライアンは自宅以外の場所でも菜園を始め、キャッサバやトウモロコシ、カシューナッツの木までもを団地の共有緑地に植えている。ブライアンは「自分と家族に何を食べさせているのかを正確に把握している」と、それでも苦労して菜園を続ける価値はあると教えてくれた。   Joanna's rooftop gardenPhotograph: Kashmira Kasmuri     2. 名シェフたちも地元食材に注目 シンガポールでは、家庭の食卓以外でも、受賞歴もあり国際的に認められたシェフやバーテンダーたちの店において、地元産の食材が使われてきた。 ミシュランの一つ星店であるラビリンスは、このムーブメントの草分け。メニューの90％近くに地元農家の食材を使っている。地元産へのこだわりは若手シェフの間にも。カウスモでは地元や地域の農家から仕入れているだけでなく、忘れ去られてしまった在来種の緑や花々にも注目しているという。 ジョアンナは、地元のシェフたちの意識についてこう語ってくれた。「シンガポールの一流シェフたちは、小さくて

It's been about a month since Singapore began Phase 2 of its reopening plans. We've seen the city slowly come back to life after the circuit breaker – with restaurant and bars opening their doors, galleries and museums welcoming visitors and cinemas dusting off their projectors. Heck, we've even had a national election. To date, Singapore has had more than 46,000 cases of Covid-19 and 27 deaths. These days, we're still seeing new cases being reported in the hundreds, including double-digit cases in the community outside of migrant worker dormitories. Yet, aside from the use of face masks and markings on the floor reminding us to practise social distancing, it seems like life has pretty much returned back to normal. However, the novel coronavirus remains an ever-present threat and we shouldn't get complacent. Cities like Hong Kong and Melbourne are in the middle of a second and even third wave, showing us that this is something we'll have to live with for the foreseeable future. So as we cautiously step out of homes and walk into the new normal, here's a look at what Singapore looks like post-circuit breaker. Jurong Point   Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri   Jewel Changi Airport   Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri   Tampines Mall   Photograph: Nicole-Marie Ng   Orchard Road   Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri   Ang Mo Kio Hub    Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri   IMM   Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri   Suntec City    Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri   313@Somerset     Photograph: Kash

Welcome to Da Bao Diaries, a column dedicated to what Time Out Singapore's editors are eating and drinking at home. Da bao is a Singaporean colloquialism derived from Mandarin that refers to having a meal to go instead of dining in at an establishment. Out of boredom or necessity, you've probably tried to grill a steak at least once during these past couple of months. It seems easy enough. Grab a $12 slab from the supermarket, generously rub it with salt and pepper and throw it on a hot pan till it turns dark brown crust. Simple. But I'm also willing to bet that your steak didn't come out perfect during your first try. With thin supermarket cuts, it's a challenge to work that Maillard magic without overcooking the beef. But don't feel defeated. Restaurants like BoCHINche are here to help and take the guesswork out of searing a perfect steak at home. Here's what you have to do. Choose between the ribeye ($58.90) or sirloin ($53) – you can graduate to the larger cuts like the 900g Wagyu shortloin ($223.70) once you gain some confidence – and throw it on a hot pan with some olive oil. Each 300g slice of grass-fed Argentinian beef comes pre-marinated in oil and a couple of sprigs of thyme. Follow the instructions on how long to sear each side in order to achieve your desired doneness.   BoCHINchePhotograph: Nicole-Marie Ng   If this isn't your first rodeo, then freestyle and add in a tablespoon of butter, a couple of cloves of crushed garlic and whatever else you desire a minut