It’s such a joy to be a foodie in Singapore — another wave of great restaurants has arrived!
1. Nikuya Tanaka
Gourmet dining in Singapore is reaching a new peak as Nikuya Tanaka, one of Japan’s most celebrated steakhouses, opens its first international outpost at 1 Teck Lim Road. Crowned Japan’s No. 1 steak restaurant in both 2024 and 2025, and ranked World’s No. 27 by the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants, the arrival of this Ginza institution is highly anticipated. Helmed by third-generation meat master Chef Satoru Tanaka, affectionately known as “BOSS,” the restaurant embodies an 80-year family tradition of excellence in Japanese Wagyu. Singaporean gourmands can look forward to savouring this elite level of kappo-style cuisine starting at the end of September 2025.
At the heart of Nikuya Tanaka’s philosophy is an uncompromising dedication to quality, sourcing only purebred Tajima Wagyu, which accounts for less than 0.1% of Japan’s beef production. Chef Tanaka personally selects whole female cattle, raised for over 35 months, to ensure unparalleled tenderness and marbling—including the world-famous Kobe beef. The preparation is minimalist, respecting the ingredient, with choice cuts like the ethereal Chateaubriand fillet meticulously grilled over Binchotan charcoal to seal in flavour. Beyond the signature Kobe Wagyu Steak, diners can savour the delicate Beef Tataki, which is cured using the traditional kombu-jime method, and the unforgettable “Ice Somen” Chilled Noodles, presented dramatically in a hand-carved ice bowl.
The serene Singapore venue, designed by Japan’s renowned Morita Yasumichi, mirrors the prestige of the Ginza flagship. The intimate space features a 10-seat counter and a 5-seater private room, framed by dark wood and charcoal grey, with artisanal touches like gold leaf accents on hand-chiseled Naguri Wood. This setting provides a sophisticated stage for the masterful experience.
For those ready to indulge in this world-class Wagyu, set menus are available, with lunch courses starting from S$350++ and dinner starting from S$420++. Nikuya Tanaka promises an exquisite journey through the art of Japanese beef, perfected over generations.
Nikuya Tanaka Singapore is located at 1 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088379.
2. Gwangjang GAON
Renowned Korean culinary expert, Professor Hyo Soon Park, has brought her acclaimed traditional restaurant, Gwangjang GAON, to Singapore, marking its first international location. Situated in Jewel Changi Airport with a stunning view of the vortex rain, the eatery is celebrated for preserving authentic, multi-generational Korean recipes that are increasingly rare in modern food service. Already famous in South Korea for drawing long queues and attracting top celebrities like Lee Jung-jae (Squid Game) and Han So-hee, Gwangjang GAON stands out by focusing on classic heritage dishes rather than typical K-street food.
Professor Park, a respected culinary researcher with a doctorate and various accolades, including a Prime Minister’s award, upholds the philosophy that “healthy taste leads to a healthier world.” The menu showcases her family’s four-generation secret recipes, featuring signature comforting dishes such as the rich and milky Gomguksi (knife-cut noodles with beef broth), the tender, sous-vide GAON Galbi (S$69.90++), and Bossam (S$43.90++), which is gently simmered in a treasured 15-year-old mother stock. Other highlights include the meticulously handmade Modm-Jeon platter (S$35.90++) and the classic Bibimbap (S$22.90++).
Gwangjang GAON is located at 78 Airport Boulevard, #02-243, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore 819666.
3. Ban Lan (班嵐)
Suzhou’s critically acclaimed Ban Lan (班嵐), a restaurant distinguished with a MICHELIN Selected honour, has officially opened its first overseas outpost in Singapore this November at Scotts Square. Carrying forth one of China’s eight major culinary traditions, Ban Lan offers a modern interpretation of Fujian (Hokkien) cuisine. Leading the kitchen is Chef Sun Xiaoyang, a Fujian native with 18 years of experience. His culinary philosophy centers on skillfully balancing the preservation of tradition with contemporary innovation, focusing on light, fresh, and delicate flavors that highlight the natural essence of the ingredients.
The menu atBan Lan (班嵐) showcases both heritage dishes and exciting modern creations. Essential Hokkien specialties include the luxurious Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, a masterpiece of premium sea treasures slow-simmered for 24 hours, and the Southern Fujian Spring Roll (Run Bing), an Intangible Cultural Heritage dish cherished for over 400 years. For those seeking fusion, the innovative Baked Boston Lobster with Truffle and Glutinous Rice presents a captivating East-meets-West flavour profile. Another must-try is the Tie Guan Yin Tea-Smoked Crispy Sesame Chicken, which undergoes a meticulous 13-hour process to achieve a paper-thin, crisp skin enveloping juicy, tender meat.
Ban Lan (班嵐) is located at 6 Scotts Road, #02-01/02, Scotts Square, Singapore 228209.
4. Mr Hainan (海南先生)
Mr Hainan (海南先生) is one of the first establishments to bring the truly authentic and comprehensive flavours of Hainanese cuisine directly from Hainan, China, to Singapore. Moving beyond the globally famous Chicken Rice, this new restaurant offers a deep dive into the island’s culinary heritage. The menu celebrates the full abundance of Hainan, featuring prized small sea fish delicacies and other famous dishes.
Diners can explore a range of signature dishes that speak of home and heritage. The highlight is the Hainan Wenchang Chicken (S$52.80++/whole, S$22.80++/half), renowned for its firm yet succulent meat, developed through a unique 180-day, free-range rearing process with an antibiotic-free diet. Complementing this is the fragrant Wenchang Chicken Rice, prepared authentically with old corp rice infused with rich chicken broth. The menu also includes the braised Hainan Jiaji Duck (S$25.80++), another of Hainan’s Four Famous Dishes, and exquisite seafood such as the must-try Threadfin with Assam Sauce and Yellow Lantern Chili Peppers, which delivers a unique sweet, tangy, and spicy flavour profile. Guests can also savour cultural dishes like the Haikou East Gate Beef Brisket Pot (S$23.90++) and the symbolic Hainan Prosperity Pot (S$18.80++).
Mr Hainan is located at VivoCity, #02-116, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585.
5. The Soup Expert (尚一汤)
The Soup Expert (尚一汤), famous for serving its nourishing Cantonese double-boiled soups in charming, individual “teapots,” has launched its first international location in Suntec City, Singapore. Having perfected the art of soup-making for over 18 years, the brand has already served more than 7.5 million of its signature “teapots.” The brand utilizes premium ingredients and a unique four-hour steam-boiling technique to extract natural flavors and vital nutrients fully.
The menu moves beyond simple comfort food, offering expertly crafted soups designed to support specific wellness goals. These include blends that promote beauty and vitality for women, boost stamina and energy for men, and even brain-nourishing recipes tailored for children. A must-try highlight is the Abalone Ginseng Soup (S$14.90++), an 18-year bestseller known for its fresh yet intensely flavored combination of tender abalone and cultivated ginseng. Another favorite is the light and restorative Wild Mushroom Bamboo Fungus Soup (S$12.90++).
To complete the meal, The Soup Expert (尚一汤) also offers a range of hearty poultry dishes. These include the wholesome Cooker-baked Dang Gui Chicken (S$36.90++/whole, S$18.90++/half), infused with traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients such as angelica root and goji berries.
The Soup Expert (尚一汤) is located at Suntec City, 3 Temasek Boulevard, #03-315, 316, 331, Singapore 038983.
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6. Shan Cheng (Compass One)
Shan Cheng, a popular spot for authentic Ipoh cuisine, has recently unveiled a dazzling, refreshed look at its CompassOne outlet, along with an exciting new, outlet-exclusive dessert series.
The main attraction is the highly-anticipated Golden Brulee Chendol, which is making its Singapore debut after becoming a viral trend in Ipoh. This dessert elevates the classic Chendol experience by crowning it with a layer of creamy crème brûlée that is flambéed right before serving. The innovative dish perfectly marries the traditional gula melaka and coconut milk base with a sweet, caramelised milkiness, presenting a must-try fusion of Malaysian heritage and modern culinary flair.
The new lineup, which is exclusively available at the CompassOne location, also features other unique and nostalgic creations. Fans of the classic malty drink can try the Snow Crunch Milo, a Milo-flavoured snow ice with white salted milk, Milo powder, and a side of Milo balls for extra crunch. For coffee enthusiasts, the White Coffee Mountain Ice features snow ice flavoured with Ipoh white coffee, accompanied by frothy milk and crushed biscuits. Purists can still enjoy the classic Chendol with the Chendol Legend. Founded by the Tioh sisters, Shan Cheng draws its name from Ipoh’s nickname, the “City of Mountains,” and has been serving authentic dishes, such as Shredded Chicken Hor Fun and Curry Noodles, since 2011. Now, it complements these dishes with an exclusive, not-to-be-missed dessert collection.
Shan Cheng (Compass One) is located at 1 Sengkang Square, #02-28/32 Compass One, Singapore 545078.
7. Temper
A new, multi-layered hideaway named Temper has arrived adjacent to Mondrian Singapore Duxton, offering discerning guests an intimate and “playfully unfiltered” experience defined by precision in wine, cocktails, food, and sound. The venue’s name, Temper, signifies the quiet exactness behind a great pour. The alignment of temperature, texture, timing and the entire 4,000 sqft space, styled with Bauhaus clarity and cinematic warmth, is intentionally designed to unveil distinct experiences across its two floors: a low-lit wine room and a buzzier cocktail lounge. This new dining destination is driven by a collective of high-calibre talents, including a Master Sommelier, Michelin-decorated chefs, a rising cocktail consultant, and one of Singapore’s most influential music curators.
Exceptional beverage and culinary programs anchor the experience. The upstairs wine room, led by former 67 Pall Mall Head Sommelier Roberto Duran, is a haven for exploration, boasting a custom cellar with over 1,200 labels and 250 available by the glass, curated with intuition over formality. Downstairs, the cocktail lounge features a creative menu shaped by South Korean consulting bartender June Baek. Guests can expect inventive signatures, such as the refreshing Temper’s Cup and the Star Fruit Martini, a twist on the Dirty Martini that uses a vinegar-soaked star fruit pickle. Complementing the drinks are unpretentious yet precisely executed dishes by Executive Chef Nicolas Tam (of Willow) and Head Chef Ronald Sim. Highlights include the indulgent Red Shrimp Carpaccio, a crowd-pleasing wagyu-blend temper. Burger, and a grand seafood tower, alongside weekend brunches launching in October.
Further defining the venue is a bespoke, genre-hopping music programme curated by Joshua Pillai, co-founder of Phat Cat Collective, which features regular vinyl deep-dives, live jazz, and late-night spins of soul, funk, and R&B from influential local artists like DJ Keith Colaco and Dita Jacob.
Temper is open Mondays to Wednesdays from 5 pm to 1 am, and Thursdays to Saturdays from 12 pm to 1 am, aiming to be the “sweet spot” for social connection—a sophisticated yet unpretentious space where the ambience, pour, and dish perfectly align.
Temper is located at Mondrian Singapore Duxton, 83 Neil Rd #01-07, Singapore 089813.
8. Gaudí Room
Joo Chiat’s vibrant dining scene has just gained a sophisticated new addition with the opening of Gaudí Room, a hidden speakeasy tucked away behind the popular Carlitos tapas bar. This intimate 23-seater cocktail sanctuary is a tribute to the legendary Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí, capturing the spirit of his distinctive Art Nouveau style through organic shapes, vibrant colors, and mosaic textures.
The beverage menu at Gaudí Room elevates classic cocktails into unique artistic expressions, with each creation intentionally designed and thoughtfully named. Highlights include The Smoking Architect (S$26++), a Gaudí-esque take on the classic Smoking Jacket; the elegant Café de la Rambla (S$24++); and the bold Gaudoni Negroni (S$26++). Paying homage to his most iconic masterpiece, patrons can also savor La Sagrada Paloma (S$22++) or the surrealist-inspired The Dream of Salvador Dali (S$26++).
Complementing the drinks is a special selection of beatific bar bites, which are distinctly different from the tapas at Carlitos. Offerings range from simple treats like Pica Pica paprika almonds (S$10++) to more substantial options, such as Gaudí Fried Chicken (S$22++) and decadent Sturgeon Caviar (starting at S$98++).
Whether you book a reservation via WhatsApp at +65 9776 5348 or try your luck with a walk-in, Gaudí Room promises an escape into the imaginative heart of Barcelona.
The Gaudí Room is located at 350 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427598.
9. Mondo
A new world of flavour, appropriately named Mondo after the Italian word for ‘world’, has landed on Amoy Street, blending artisanal craftsmanship with a dash of whimsy. This enchanting gelato coffee bar invites exploration with an intimate space and a menu full of inventive surprises.
Every batch of gelato is meticulously handcrafted in small quantities using premium, globally sourced ingredients, often featuring unexpected combinations that dance between sweet and savoury. A perfect example is the Blue Cheese & Candied Pear, a masterclass in contrast that expertly balances the richness of French blue cheese with tender, homemade candied pear. Other luxurious options include Marsala Poached Figs and classics like the decadent Sicilian Pistachio. This deeply honed palate and intentional approach to crafting both complex and straightforward flavours is what sets Mondo apart, with a single scoop starting at S$7++ only.
Mondo’s inventiveness extends beyond the gelato counter into its comprehensive beverage programme, offering both specialty coffee and unique alcoholic creations. Coffee lovers can enjoy expertly crafted specialty brews using award-winning ONA beans from Canberra, or indulge in a cheeky alcoholic affogato for S$10++. For a truly elevated treat, the bar features exclusive signature alcoholic floats (S$22++), which marry the artisanal gelato with in-house batch cocktails dispensed from an innovative tap system. One must-try is the Shiso Fine, a whisky blend with aromatic shiso and yuzu, which is recommended to be enjoyed with the Lemon Sake sorbet.
With warm hues and playful accents, the intimate space encourages guests to slow down and embark on a personal tasting journey through gelato, coffee, and cocktails at this delightfully offbeat sanctuary.
Mondo is located at 92A Amoy St, Singapore 069911.
10. COTE Singapore’s Millim After Dark
COTE Singapore, the international counterpart of the famous New York City restaurant, is enhancing its appeal with the launch of Millim After Dark, a new sophisticated nightlife program. Set within the establishment’s jungle-inspired Millim Bar, this experience transforms the space into a premier late-night destination every weekend. Starting this month, the program will feature a curated lineup of resident and guest DJs, creating a high-energy ambiance that runs from 8:00 p.m. till late every Friday and Saturday.
The weekend kicks off with non-stop DJ sessions on Fridays. At the same time, Saturdays combine the electrifying beats with an extraordinary Ladies’ Night, offering complimentary cocktails for all women from 10:00 p.m. to midnight. The drink menu spotlights classic favorites like the Espresso Martini and Old Fashioned, alongside Millim Bar’s signature cocktails such as the Last Grape and The Blanc. Guests can also enjoy premium spirits and champagne until 1:00 a.m., with bar snacks available until midnight.
Millim After Dark is poised to redefine Orchard Road’s nightlife, establishing Millim Bar as a new lifestyle enclave for Singapore’s trendsetters.
COTE Singapore is located at Level 3, COMO Orchard, 30 Bideford Road, Singapore 229922.
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