Why: Grand views of lush tropical gardens make this one of Singapore’s loveliest restaurants for alfresco occasions, drawing well-heeled regulars from Dempsey Hill. The glassy, spacious restaurant spills out onto the terrace in fine weather where locals enjoy all their regular pizzas, burgers and specials alongside a full range of drinks including cold pressed juices and first rate Bloody Marys, both staples of an excellent weekend brunch.
Where: 28b Harding Road, 249549
Why: It’s not just the eco-conscious thinking behind the menu and operations here that fuels Singapore’s love affair with Open Farm Community, but the tranquil, relaxed, tropical setting that pops with scents and seasonality and an ingredients-led kitchen bursting with beautiful, innovative ideas. Bag a table on the terrace, bring the family at the weekend and enjoy!
Where: 130E Minden Rd, 248819
Why: Well known as a gastronomic (and romantic) oasis in the wooded Labrador Nature Reserve, away from the bustling centre, the timeless interiors and rustic-luxe decor are well loved, as too the Thai and Burmese food from heirloom recipes. Equally enjoyable are the tables set up outside with their lush garden views and easy-on-the-eye colonial bungalow backdrop. House-infused gins and signature cocktails keep the tempo relatively lively.
Where: 30 Labrador Villa Road, Nature Reserve, 119189
Why: This cool, informal Marina Bay eaterie, with its light-filled room and breezy terrace overlooking the waterfront, ticks all the boxes for relaxed all-day dining. Clean lines, booths and simple table settings create the perfect feel for a cacophonous crowd swooning over well-crafted aperitivos, alongside aged Parma ham, fritto misto and tiger prawns.
Where: Customs House, 70 Collyer Quay, #01-05, 049323
Why: It’s touristy, for sure, but also for good reason. Nothing compares to the views from Faber Peak, particularly at sunset with cocktails in hand. A no-fuss roster of international favourites: from snails and Caesar salads to tiger prawn capellini. Late night happy hours and live acoustic music on Fridays and Saturdays keep the party going.
Where: Faber Peak Singapore, Level 2, 109 Mount Faber Road, 099203
Why: The decor at this 'heart of Little India' place is nothing to write home about – think plastic chairs and knockabout fixtures and fittings – but no one minds particularly when the action spills out onto the street and plates of great value, fabulously authentic Punjabi food helps fuel the often electric atmosphere, and helps make this one of Singapore’s hottest tickets.
Where: Khansama Tandoori Restaurant, 166 Serangoon Road, 218050
Why: Step back in time at the palatial colonial-era Summerhouse with a happy, modern-day twist. Open all-day for brunch at the Wildseed Café, the space becomes a gastro-destination come evening with farm-to-table dining, specialising in what it grows and rears in its edible garden as well as seafood. The landscaped gardens provide a perfect backdrop while their Wildseed Domes let you dine under the stars in comfort and some style.
Where: 3 Park Lane, Level 2, 798387
Why: Don’t miss the outdoor terrace at this breezy and relaxed place with terrific views across the water, particularly when you’re looking to kick back and ratchet up the fun. Deeply flavoured, classic fried chicken and pork ribs are the order of the day. And it all adds to one of the most enjoyable restaurants in Marina Bay.
Where: 2 Bayfront Ave, 018972
Why: If you want a laid-back, lost afternoon of gourmet fun Spanish-style, look no further this airy spot that benefits in no small way from the swank of the marina lugar particularly on sunny afternoons when the cares of the world will melt away. Besides the roster of regular tapas, there’s great seafood, paella and Josper-grilled meat to get stuck into.
Where: 31 Ocean Way, #01-02 Quayside Isle, Sentosa, 098373
Why: The menu here may read like a cliché of Wolfgang Puck's culinary empire, but who minds this when the imaginative, seasonal Californian cooking is this good. But it is the feel-good outside spaces, capped by the quintessential Singapore views from level 57 of Marina Bay Sands Tower 2 that will really blow your mind.
Where: Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, 01895
Why: There is so much to like about Bjorn Shen’s bold flavoured food with Middle Eastern accents. It’s comfort food with elevated flavours. But for many it’s the casual, friendly setting that really speaks to them, perfectly epitomised in the rustic, tropical terrace with its awnings, decking and scrubbed tables.
Where: 161 Middle Rd, 188978