Savoring the Foodie Scene, Speakeasies & Luxe Lounges
Nine Years in Singapore
Singapore wasn’t just a new address—it became my culinary playground for nearly a decade. From the first taste of hawker favorites to glittering evenings at luxury restaurants and hidden speakeasies, the city’s food and nightlife scene never stopped surprising me.
A Foodie’s Wonderland
Singapore is famously multicultural, and nowhere is that more deliciously evident than in its food. My weekends often started at iconic hawker centers, where plates of spicy laksa, fragrant chicken rice, and crispy prata became my staples. Yet, as my palate evolved and friendships blossomed, I found myself drawn to the city’s more upscale culinary gems.
Luxury Restaurants: Dining in Style
What makes Singapore’s top-tier restaurants stand out is the seamless blend of world-class hospitality and innovative cuisine. Whether it was a celebratory dinner or a spontaneous splurge, here are some spots that truly shaped my dining memories:
- Odette: Fine French dining in the National Gallery, where each plate felt like a work of art—subtle, seasonal, and always with Asian nuances.
- Burnt Ends: An Australian-style wood-fired grill, offering unforgettable smoky flavors and a buzzing, convivial atmosphere.
- Waku Ghin: Chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s Japanese-European tasting menus continually set the bar for luxury and exclusivity.
Jaan by Kirk Westaway: Modern British fare with panoramic views; Sunday brunches here felt like an event, not just a meal.
Speakeasies & Lounges: Nights to Remember
As day faded, Singapore’s nightlife called to the curious and adventurous. My circle loved a good hunt for a speakeasy—and the city offers plenty tucked behind nondescript doors or disguised inside shophouses.
Uncovering Hidden Gems
28 HongKong Street: My introduction to the speakeasy scene, with its moody lighting, killer cocktails, and off-the-menu surprises.
Operation Dagger: Down a hidden staircase, this bar wowed with inventive, smoky concoctions and science-lab chic.
The Secret Mermaid: Located in the Raffles Place, by day a poke bowl spot, by night a secret American craft spirits oasis.
ATLAS: Lavish Art Deco interiors and one of the world’s most extensive gin collections; a single martini here feels like a journey back in time.
Lounges & Bars: Where Glamour Meets Hospitality
- Ce La Vi: Soaring over Marina Bay Sands, this rooftop lounge stars for sunset cocktails and the best skyline views in town.
- Manhattan: Repeatedly ranked among Asia’s best bars, inspired by old New York glamour, with a rickhouse of barrel-aged cocktails.
Juniors: A cozy, under-the-radar favorite with a strong craft cocktail program, knowledgeable bartenders, and a genuinely friendly vibe among regulars.
The Allure of Juniors
Let me linger on Juniors…
The kind of place where everyone seems to know your name by your third visit. The décor is sleek but low-key, the menu inventive without being fussy. Many impromptu celebrations and “just one drink” nights ended here, in laughter and discovery of a new favorite spirit.
You’ll find Juniors draws a stylish yet approachable crowd, and their bartenders are always ready with a recommendation tailored to your tastes.
Final Thoughts
Living in Singapore gave me access to a global table—where discerning flavor, striking ambiance, and creative hospitality came together nightly. Whether you find yourself drawn to the glitz of fine dining, the adventure of speakeasy hunts, or the comfort of a regular lounge like Juniors, Singapore’s scene delivers with heart and flair. Bring your appetite and your curiosity—the next unforgettable meal or craft cocktail is always just around the corner.
