With Singapore’s reputation as a food paradise, it is hardly surprising that Singaporeans and residents possess an innate talent for uncovering the city-state’s best eats — and even some places that evoke an out-of-Singapore feeling. Here, we attempt to surprise you with some of our picks.
Blue Jasmine
For a taste of Thailand, satisfy your cravings with Blue Jasmine’s array of true-to-origin dishes. Helmed by Thai Head Chef Imprassitichai, you’ll find all-time favourites such as wok-fried pad thai, prawn pineapple fried rice, green curry, pad krapow (Thai basil chicken), and of course, mango and blue jasmine sticky rice.
Level 5, Holiday Inn Singapore Little India, 10 Farrer Park Station Rd, Singapore 217564; Tel: 6824 8888
SAFRA members get to enjoy 20% off the total bill. Go to safra.sg/promotions/blue-jasmine for more details.
Smiths Fish and Chips
Savour a slice of the UK with Smiths’ authentic fish and chips. Serving the British classic since its inception in 2006, each dish is made from quality ingredients from local British suppliers. All items on the menu including the fish and, well, chips, are prepared fresh daily on the premises.
SAFRA members enjoy 15% off with a minimum spend of $30. Go to safra.sg/promotions/smiths-fish-and-chips for more details.
Good Year Seafood Village
Tucked away in a rather ulu industrial area in Tampines that is reminiscent of old Singapore, or some would venture Johor Bahru, this old-school zi char restaurant is best known for its golden garlic spiced pork dish, Pontian-style bak kut teh and chilli crab.
However, we would be remiss if we didn’t also recommend the savoury cabbage chicken, a comforting soup-like dish, and the prawn paste chicken wings as well.
Koma
If it’s good enough for Taylor Swift and her beau, it’s good enough for us. Even at its entrance, there’s no mistaking the striking 20m-long walkway comprising layer after layer of orange arches (also known as torii gates), which bring to mind the famed Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto. Indoors, a 2.5m-tall Japanese bell sets the scene of what’s to come — a visual feast of Japanese dishes. Don’t miss the restaurant’s sashimi platter, sushi platter, black truffle beef tartare, truffle fried rice, and its show-stopping A5 wagyu beef tenderloin.
2 Bayfront Ave, # B1 – 67 Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018972; Tel: 6688 8690
Joji’s Diner
Head down to this diner at Upper Serangoon Road if you simply must have American staples. The menu features classics such as chilli dog, mac & cheese and must-tries such as its baby back ribs. The entire experience is complete with quintessential beverages like milkshakes and lemonade as well as the fairly traditional decor of red vinyl booths and neon signs.
Tiong Bahru Bakery – Safari
Take a walk on the wild side at Tiong Bahru Bakery’s safari-themed cafe at Open Farm Community at Minden Road. The cafe, which was inspired by founder Cynthia Chua’s visit to the African safari in Botswana, offers the bakery’s signature croissants while serving safari-style bakes such as its zebra-inspired wild safari cake. Whether you’re here for the pastries or for a unique, rustic experience, one thing’s for sure: you’re set for a roaring good time.
La Bottega Enoteca
When it comes to authentic Italian dishes in a rustic setting, look no further than La Bottega Enoteca at Joo Chiat Road. Founded by Antonio Miscellaneo, who is also the chef, the food here reflects Miscellaneo’s Italian heritage and love for quality eats. Naturally, the restaurant’s signature pizzas (the restaurant made it to number 19 in 50 Top Pizza’s Asia-Pacific category) are a must-try, especially the Newpolitan, as are its antipastis and home-made pastas.
346 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427596; Tel: 9071 8400
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