5 Best Restaurants In Singapore To Visit For Elevated Local Fare & Stunning Interiors
So you're craving the irresistible flavours of local fare à la Singapore's best hawker centres, but just can't give up on all the comforts of dining in an upscale restaurant? Whether you're a solo traveller seeking out Instagrammable spots or seeking out the best dining destinations to bring visiting family or friends — we've got you covered.
Read on for 5 restaurants that combine mouthwatering local cuisine with stunning interiors!
#1: The Coconut Club
Photo from The Coconut Club
It's true, The Coconut Club is mainly known for just one dish on their menu. But boy do they make it taste heavenly (just ask PM Lee Hsien Loong, who's a fan)! The flagship of this atas nasi lemak joint is a two-storey Beach Road shophouse mixing alfresco seating, cosy spots for two, long family-style tables, and bar stools — there's even an open kitchen where you can peek the chefs charcoal grilling up a storm.
Photo from The Coconut Club
Upscale kampong vibes aside, the restaurant's menu takes the humble coconut dish to new heights with generous Nasi Lemak sets and polished sharing platters. First-time diners need to try the Signature Chicken Nasi Lemak Leg ($21) or Signature Chicken Nasi Lemak Breast ($21) for a spice-filled explosion of flavour.
Photo from The Coconut Club
That's not to say they don't have other options: order up some refreshing Gado Gado ($12), crunchy and tangy Kueh Pie Ti ($18), or opt for a hearty serving of Beef Cheek Rendang ($34) or Singaporean Seafood Laksa ($28) to add some variety to your feast.
#2: Labyrinth
Photo from Labyrinth
Did you know that Singapore is home to a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant dishing up authentic local flavours and produce? Labyrinth, which prides itself on delivering a 'New Singaporean' dining experience, is the first of its kind in deconstructing our familiar hawker and coffee shop fare, making them seem almost unfamiliar.
Photo from Labyrinth
Think you know your Bak Kut Teh and Prawn Noodles? The contemporary presentation of these traditional flavours will have you pondering on all the flavours and food memories related to them. Plus, those who enjoy fish and shellfish are in for a treat, since the restaurant's tasting menus are largely seafood-centric.
Photo from Labyrinth
The selection of dishes available is highly seasonal and will depend on the timing of your visit. The lunch tasting menu starts at $208++ per person, while the dinner tasting menu is priced at $298++ per person.
#3: Violet Oon
Photo from Violet Oon
There's probably nowhere else that's better known for elevating Peranakan classics than Violet Oon, where you can indulge in the finest Nyonya dishes, cakes and kuehs. The mouthwatering selection of local fare here is second only to their elegant, Peranakan-inspired interiors complete with furnishings in deep green and paired with dark wood furniture.
Photo from Violet Oon
Feast on their signature dishes of Shrimp Paste Chicken Wings ($21.80), Kuay Pie Tee ($20.80), Buah Keluak Ayam ($30.50), or satisfy your sweet tooth with treats like Gula Melaka Cake ($14.20) and Kueh Beng Kah ($17.50).
Photo from Violet Oon
You can also enjoy your taitai moment with their signature Singapore High Tea Set ($58 for 2 pax) — complete with bite-sized sweets and savouries presented on a beautiful three-tier stand.
#4: Ginger at PARKROYAL
Photo from Ginger at PARKROYAL
Hosting some picky relatives or notoriously big eaters? It's time to bust out the big guns! Ginger at PARKROYAL has one of the best all-you-can-eat spots in town, featuring a truly mind-boggling array of dishes showcasing our local cuisine. It also has absolutely stunning interiors, highlighting floral and tropical themes in pastel shades.
Photo from Ginger at PARKROYAL
This halal-certified restaurant located in the heart of Kampung Glam offers lunch and dinner buffets, and even has vegetarian options to choose from.
Photo from Ginger at PARKROYAL
Expect to find Singaporean favourites like Chilli Crab with Mantou, Slow-braised Beef Rendang, and Durian Pengat! The lunch buffet starts at $52 per adult, while the dinner buffet costs $75 per adult.
#5: The Blue Ginger
Photo from The Blue Ginger
If you or your visiting friends or family aren't the most adventurous with strong aromas or aggressive flavours, The Blue Ginger is a great introduction to local and Peranakan flavours. Located right in the CBD, this restaurant is usually filled with both the working crowd and expats.
Photo from The Blue Ginger
Besides popular picks like Ayam Panggang “Blue Ginger” ($16), Curry Vegetables ($14.50), and Nonya Fish Head Curry ($32), there are also delightful sides and desserts to be found. Our favourites are the Otak Otak ($4) and Durian Chendol ($7).
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