Best Restaurant Singapore: Top 25 Must-Visit Dining Destinations for 2025
Singapore’s culinary landscape represents one of the world’s most dynamic dining scenes, where centuries-old hawker traditions meet cutting-edge gastronomy. This vibrant city-state has earned its reputation as a food paradise through an extraordinary blend of cultures, flavors, and culinary innovation that spans from street food stalls to Michelin-starred establishments.
Whether you’re seeking refined dishes at world-renowned fine dining restaurants, authentic local flavors at heritage eateries, or innovative fusion cuisine that pushes culinary boundaries, Singapore offers an unparalleled array of dining experiences.
Singapore’s Top 5 Must-Visit Restaurants
Burnt Ends - Fire and Smoke Perfection
Crowned as Tatler Singapore’s Restaurant of the Year 2025, Burnt Ends has revolutionized the barbecue scene with its fire- and smoke-infused modern approach. Chef Dave Pynt’s innovative use of a custom-built Mibrasa oven transforms simple ingredients into complex, rich flavours, earning the restaurant a spot among the world’s finest.
Located in the heritage surroundings of Dempsey Hill, the restaurant serves an array of small plates designed for sharing. The signature burnt ends, slow-cooked over several hours, highlight why this spot is a pilgrimage site for meat lovers. The open kitchen lets diners witness the theatrical cooking process, where flames and smoke engage all the senses. The sleek, contemporary space features thoughtful design elements that enhance the dining experience, making each visit memorable.
Odette - French Excellence with Asian Soul
Situated within the prestigious National Gallery Singapore, Odette represents the pinnacle of French fine dining in Asia. Chef Julien Royer’s restaurant has consistently ranked among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, securing the 25th position in 2025. The restaurant’s location within the National Gallery provides a stunning backdrop of art and history that complements the culinary artistry on each plate.
Odette’s menu features modern French cuisine with subtle Asian influences, creating refined dishes that pay homage to both French and Asian culinary traditions. These dishes honor seasonal ingredients while pushing creative boundaries. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing has earned it recognition beyond just taste, with many dishes featuring ingredients grown specifically for the restaurant.
Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu – The Hidden Gem of Omakase
Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu has quietly emerged as an essential destination in the world of high-end Japanese dining in Singapore, proving that the most profound culinary experiences can be found in the most intimate, unassuming spaces. Tucked away discreetly, this exclusive, eight-seat omakase counter focuses all its attention on the pursuit of pure craft, rather than lavish decor or a bustling dining room.
The entire experience centers on the mastery of Chef Masa, the sole artisan behind the counter. He curates an ever-evolving omakase (chef’s selection) journey based on the finest seasonal ingredients flown in literally daily from Japan’s Toyosu Market. Guests are treated to an elegant progression of courses, moving seamlessly from delicate sashimi to expertly prepared cooked items, culminating in exquisite nigiri sushi.
What makes Sushi Masa truly special is its commitment to the uncompromised intimacy of the experience. Unlike many large, multi-chef establishments, every piece of food presented is personally crafted by Chef Masa. This level of dedication reflects the Japanese shokunin spirit—a commitment to deep, singular mastery—allowing for an exceptional standard of quality and precision that resonates with discerning diners. Given its limited seating and singular nightly focus, reservations are highly sought after and necessary to secure a seat, making it a must-visit among the best restaurant Singapore options for those seeking an unforgettable meal.
Cloudstreet - Australian Innovation in Singapore
Cloudstreet brings modern Australian cuisine to Singapore with a focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. Located in the historic Duxton area, this restaurant offers tasting menus that change regularly to showcase the best available ingredients and the chef’s creative vision.
The restaurant’s approach combines Australian culinary traditions with local Singapore flavours, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising. For example, their signature Sri Lankan curry leaf ice cream with fermented pineapple highlights the fusion of unique flavors and attention to detail that defines Cloudstreet’s menu. The open kitchen concept allows diners to observe the precise preparation of each course, while the intimate dining room creates an atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Cloudstreet’s wine program features an extensive selection of Australian and international bottles, with knowledgeable sommeliers providing perfect pairings for each course. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability extends to its sourcing practices, with many ingredients coming from local farms and sustainable suppliers.
Labyrinth - Modern Singaporean Heritage
Labyrinth stands as Singapore’s premier destination for modern interpretations of local heritage dishes. Chef LG Han’s restaurant has earned international recognition for preserving and reimagining traditional Singaporean flavours through contemporary cooking techniques and presentation, and has been featured in prominent culinary publications and awards.
The restaurant’s menu serves as a culinary journey through Singapore’s diverse food culture, with dishes that tell stories of the nation’s heritage while appealing to modern palates. Signature creations include deconstructed versions of classic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa, presented with artistic flair that doesn’t compromise on authentic flavours.
Each visit to Labyrinth offers a different experience, as the menu changes seasonally to incorporate the best local ingredients available. The restaurant’s commitment to preserving Singapore’s culinary heritage while making it accessible to international visitors has made it a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking authentic yet refined Singaporean cuisine.
Michelin-Starred Fine Dining Restaurants
Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants represent the pinnacle of culinary excellence, each offering unique interpretations of their respective cuisines while maintaining the exacting standards that earn this prestigious recognition.
Burnt Ends - Elevated Barbecue Excellence
Beyond its status as Restaurant of the Year, Burnt Ends has maintained its Michelin star through consistent innovation in barbecue cuisine. The restaurant’s signature marinated skirt steak and custom-made sausages showcase how traditional barbecue techniques can be elevated to fine dining standards. Chef Dave Pynt’s background in prestigious European kitchens brings precision and creativity to every dish that emerges from the wood-fired ovens.
The restaurant’s wine selection complements the bold flavours of the smoked dishes, with carefully curated options that enhance rather than compete with the intense flavours created through the cooking process. Reservations typically require booking 6-8 weeks in advance, and the restaurant operates with two sittings per evening to accommodate demand.
Odette - Contemporary French Mastery
Odette’s Michelin stars reflect Chef Julien Royer’s commitment to seasonal French cuisine with contemporary presentation. The restaurant’s location within the National Gallery Singapore adds cultural significance to the dining experience, with views of the historic Supreme Court building enhancing the sophisticated atmosphere.
The signature dish of Hokkaido sea urchin with oscietra caviar demonstrates the restaurant’s approach to luxury ingredients prepared with technical precision. Each course in the tasting menu builds upon the previous one, creating a cohesive narrative that showcases both classical French techniques and modern innovation.
Candlenut - Peranakan Heritage Refined
Chef Malcolm Lee’s Candlenut has brought Peranakan cuisine to Michelin-starred status while respecting traditional recipes and cooking methods. The restaurant’s blue ginger flower, bunga telang rice, and heritage curry dishes represent generations of culinary tradition presented with contemporary refinement.
The spice-forward cuisine requires careful wine pairing, with the restaurant’s sommelier team providing expert guidance to complement the complex flavour profiles. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic ingredients includes importing specific spices and using traditional preparation methods that can take days to complete.
Celebrity Chef Restaurants
Singapore has become a destination for internationally renowned chefs to showcase their talents, with each bringing their signature styles adapted for local tastes and ingredients.
Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen
Located at Marina Bay Sands, Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen brings the celebrity chef’s modern British cuisine to Singapore with stunning marina views. The restaurant’s industrial-chic design creates a vibrant atmosphere where diners can expect the bold flavours and precise execution that have made Ramsay famous worldwide. During peak hours, the lively environment can get so energetic that guests may find it hard to hear each other over the buzz.
The menu features Ramsay’s signature dishes adapted for the Singapore market, including locally-sourced seafood preparations and innovative cocktails crafted by expert bartenders. The restaurant’s position within Marina Bay Sands provides convenient access for both hotel guests and visitors exploring the integrated resort.
Wolfgang Puck’s CUT
CUT represents Wolfgang Puck’s interpretation of the modern steakhouse, featuring rare cuts from three continents prepared with precision and creativity. The restaurant’s sleek design and dramatic lighting create an atmosphere perfect for business dinners or special celebrations.
The restaurant’s dry-aging program produces steaks with exceptional flavour and tenderness, while the side dishes and appetizers demonstrate Puck’s innovative approach to classic steakhouse fare. The extensive wine selection includes rare vintages and perfect pairings for each cut of meat offered.
Daniel Boulud’s Maison Boulud
Maison Boulud brings Daniel Boulud’s French culinary mastery to Singapore with a menu that reflects both classical techniques and contemporary innovation. The restaurant’s location in the historic Raffles Hotel adds prestige and heritage to the dining experience. Guests can also enjoy a classic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel, the birthplace of this iconic cocktail, celebrated for its historical significance and cultural importance in Singapore.
The seasonal menu changes regularly to incorporate the best available ingredients, with dishes that demonstrate Boulud’s commitment to French culinary traditions while embracing local flavours and ingredients. The restaurant’s private dining rooms provide intimate settings for special occasions.
Tetsuya Wakuda’s Singapore Presence
Tetsuya Wakuda operates multiple establishments in Singapore, including the acclaimed Waku Ghin and Wakuda. Each restaurant reflects different aspects of Wakuda’s culinary philosophy, from the intimate omakase experience at Waku Ghin to the more accessible yet equally refined offerings at Wakuda.
The restaurants showcase Wakuda’s signature style of combining Japanese techniques with French influences, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising. The attention to seasonal ingredients and precise preparation makes each visit a unique experience.
Best Local Singaporean Cuisine
Singapore’s local cuisine represents one of the world’s most diverse culinary traditions, with influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European cooking creating unique dishes found nowhere else in the world.
Traditional Dishes Reimagined
The best Singapore restaurants serving local cuisine excel at reimagining classic dishes like laksa, chicken rice, chili crab, and char kway teow. These establishments understand that successful modernization requires deep respect for traditional flavours combined with skillful adaptation for contemporary presentation and dining preferences.
Local cuisine restaurants often feature open kitchens where diners can observe the preparation of dishes that require specific techniques passed down through generations. The combination of traditional methods with modern equipment creates consistent results that honor the heritage of each dish.
International Cuisine Excellence
Singapore’s cosmopolitan dining scene showcases exceptional international cuisine, with restaurants that rival the best establishments in their respective cuisine’s countries of origin.
Japanese Restaurants
Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu - Intimate Omakase Focus
Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu offers a profound interpretation of the omakase dining style, concentrating all focus on the mastery of Chef Masa. This intimate, exclusive setting features an eight-seat counter where the Chef meticulously prepares the multi-course progression in full view of the guests. This highly personal and interactive approach allows diners to witness the discipline and precision required for authentic, high-end sushi artistry.
The restaurant’s culinary philosophy is rooted in unwavering seasonality and the pursuit of the finest ingredients, which are flown in daily from Japan’s Toyosu Market. This dedication ensures the resulting cuisine—spanning delicate sashimi, exquisite nigiri, and complementary cooked courses—reflects the peak flavors of the moment. The experience embodies the Japanese shokunin spirit, prioritizing singular expertise and a direct, uncompromised relationship between the master chef and the honored guest.
Takayama - Kappo-Style Mastery
Takayama celebrates Osaka food culture through its kappo-style dining, where the chef prepares dishes in full view of guests. This interactive approach creates an intimate dining experience that allows diners to appreciate the skill and precision required for authentic Japanese cuisine.
The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal ingredients includes importing specific items from Japan while incorporating local seafood and produce when they meet the exacting standards required. The result is authentic Japanese cuisine that reflects Singapore’s location and seasons.
Imamura - Kaiseki Innovation
Imamura’s kaiseki dining experience features over 50 varieties of homemade soya sauce, each crafted specifically for different dishes and seasonal preparations. This level of detail demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Japanese cooking while showcasing the chef’s innovative approach to traditional recipes.
The restaurant’s seasonal menu changes reflect the Japanese philosophy of highlighting ingredients at their peak, creating dishes that celebrate both tradition and innovation. The precise presentation and careful attention to each element create a dining experience that engages all the senses.
Koma - Theatrical Japanese Dining
Koma’s Fushimi Inari Shrine-inspired entrance creates a dramatic introduction to the restaurant’s theatrical approach to Japanese dining. The restaurant combines authentic Japanese flavours with presentation styles that create memorable dining experiences.
The menu features both traditional dishes and innovative creations that showcase the versatility of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant’s design and atmosphere transport diners to Japan while the food celebrates both tradition and creativity.
European Fine Dining
Jaan by Kirk Westaway - British Heights
Located on the 70th floor of Swissôtel Stamford, Jaan offers British-inspired cuisine with panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline. Chef Kirk Westaway’s menu demonstrates how British culinary traditions can be elevated to fine dining standards through precise technique and innovative presentation.
The restaurant’s height provides spectacular views that change throughout the meal, from sunset cocktails to dinner under the city lights. The menu features seasonal British ingredients prepared with modern techniques, creating dishes that honor tradition while surprising with contemporary flavours.
Somma - Progressive Italian
Somma’s commitment to progressive Italian cuisine includes using ancient Khorasan wheat pasta made fresh daily. This attention to traditional ingredients combined with modern techniques creates dishes that respect Italian culinary heritage while offering new experiences for diners.
The restaurant’s approach to Italian cuisine emphasizes the quality of ingredients, with many items imported directly from specific regions of Italy. The result is authentic Italian flavours presented with contemporary refinement that showcases the versatility of this beloved cuisine.
Claudine - Approachable French Excellence
Claudine brings approachable French cuisine to Singapore with tableside preparations that add theater to the dining experience. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere makes French fine dining accessible while maintaining the technical precision that defines great French cooking.
The menu features both classic French dishes and creative interpretations that incorporate local ingredients and flavours. The restaurant’s wine program emphasizes French selections while including international options that complement the cuisine.
Asian Fusion
Nouri - Crossroads Cooking
Nouri’s “Crossroads Cooking” philosophy blends global influences to create a unique dining experience that reflects Singapore’s multicultural character. Chef Ivan Brehm’s approach to fusion cuisine respects individual culinary traditions while creating harmonious combinations that surprise and delight.
The restaurant’s menu changes regularly to incorporate seasonal ingredients from around the world, creating dishes that tell stories of cultural exchange and culinary evolution. Each course represents a different cultural intersection, making dining at Nouri a journey through global cuisine.
Meta - Modern Korean Excellence
Meta showcases modern Korean cuisine with specialties featuring Jeju abalone and other premium ingredients prepared with contemporary techniques. The restaurant’s approach to Korean cuisine emphasizes the complex flavours and varied textures that define this culinary tradition.
The menu features both traditional Korean dishes and innovative creations that showcase how Korean flavours can be adapted for fine dining presentation. The restaurant’s design and atmosphere create an appropriate setting for this sophisticated approach to Korean cuisine.
Fiz - Southeast Asian Heritage
Fiz celebrates Southeast Asian heritage through dishes inspired by Khmer and Majapahit empires, creating a unique dining experience that explores the historical roots of regional cuisine. The restaurant’s approach to Southeast Asian cooking emphasizes traditional ingredients and cooking methods while presenting them with contemporary refinement.
Best Rooftop and Sky-High Dining
Singapore’s skyline provides a stunning backdrop for elevated dining experiences, with rooftop restaurants offering spectacular views alongside exceptional cuisine. Many of these venues also feature a creative mix of drinks, allowing guests to enjoy unique cocktails and inventive beverage combinations as part of the experience.
SKAI - 70th Floor Panoramas
SKAI’s location on the 70th floor of Swissôtel Stamford provides unparalleled views of Marina Bay and the entire Singapore skyline. The restaurant’s contemporary cuisine complements the spectacular surroundings, creating a dining experience that engages both palate and visual senses.
The restaurant’s design maximizes the view potential while creating intimate dining spaces that allow guests to enjoy both the food and the scenery. The menu features modern European cuisine with Asian influences, prepared with techniques that match the sophisticated atmosphere.
Sunset dining at SKAI provides the opportunity to witness the city’s transformation from day to night, with the changing light creating different moods throughout the meal. Reservations for window tables should be made well in advance, particularly for weekend evenings.
LAVO Italian Restaurant - Open-Air Excellence
LAVO’s open-air rooftop setting provides a unique dining environment where guests can enjoy Italian cuisine under the Singapore sky. The restaurant’s gelato cart adds a playful element to the sophisticated dining experience, while the open design allows diners to enjoy the tropical climate.
The menu features Italian classics prepared with premium ingredients, while the rooftop bar serves craft cocktails that complement the cuisine. The restaurant’s design creates different zones for various dining preferences, from intimate dinner tables to casual bar seating.
Jin Ting Wan - Cantonese Heights
As Singapore’s highest Cantonese restaurant, Jin Ting Wan combines authentic Chinese cuisine with spectacular city views. The restaurant’s traditional approach to Cantonese cooking creates dishes that honor centuries of culinary tradition while the modern setting provides a contemporary dining environment.
The dim sum service showcases the precision and artistry of Cantonese cooking, with each item prepared to traditional standards. The restaurant’s tea selection includes rare varieties that complement the cuisine while the views provide a stunning backdrop for this authentic dining experience.
Optimal Viewing Times
The best times to visit rooftop restaurants depend on the desired atmosphere and lighting conditions. Sunset dining, typically between 6:30-7:30 PM, provides the most dramatic views as the city transitions from day to night. The changing light creates different moods and photographic opportunities throughout the meal.
Evening dining offers the full impact of Singapore’s illuminated skyline, with the city lights creating a spectacular backdrop for dinner. Many rooftop restaurants offer different menu options for different times of day, allowing visitors to experience these elevated venues in various ways.
Special Dining Experiences
Singapore’s restaurant scene offers unique dining experiences that go beyond traditional meals to create memorable events and celebrations.
Private Dining and Chef’s Tables
Many of Singapore’s top restaurants offer private dining rooms and chef’s table experiences that provide intimate settings for special occasions and business entertaining. These exclusive experiences often include customized menus and personalized service that creates unforgettable dining events.
Chef’s table experiences allow diners to observe the kitchen’s operation while enjoying courses prepared specifically for their table. This interactive approach to fine dining provides education and entertainment alongside exceptional cuisine, making it perfect for food enthusiasts seeking deeper culinary understanding.
Wine Pairing Dinners
Specialized wine pairing dinners showcase how expertly selected wines can enhance and complement exceptional cuisine. These events typically feature multiple courses with carefully chosen wine pairings that demonstrate the relationship between food and wine.
Sommelier-guided tastings provide education alongside exceptional dining, with experts explaining the reasoning behind each pairing and how different wines interact with various flavours and textures. These events appeal to both wine enthusiasts and diners seeking to expand their palates.
Seasonal Tasting Menus
Many restaurants change their tasting menus quarterly to showcase seasonal ingredients at their peak quality and flavour. These seasonal changes ensure that regular diners can experience different aspects of the chef’s creativity while highlighting the best available ingredients.
The seasonal approach to menu development reflects the chef’s commitment to quality and freshness while providing regular customers with new experiences. Booking these seasonal menu experiences early ensures access to limited-time offerings that may not be repeated.
Interactive and Theatrical Dining
Restaurants featuring tableside preparations and theatrical presentations add entertainment value to exceptional cuisine. These interactive elements engage diners in the cooking process while demonstrating the skill and creativity required for complex preparations.
The theatrical aspects of these dining experiences appeal to diners seeking more than just a meal, creating events that combine food, entertainment, and education. These experiences are particularly popular for celebrations and special occasions where the dining experience itself becomes part of the entertainment.
Group Dining Options
Many restaurants offer specialized group dining options for celebrations and corporate events, with customized menus and private spaces that accommodate larger parties. These group experiences often include special menu options and dedicated service that ensures exceptional experiences for all attendees.
Corporate dining options provide appropriate settings for business entertainment, with private rooms and customized service that allows for business discussions alongside exceptional dining. Many restaurants offer technology integration and specialized service for business events.
Reservation Systems and Timing
The most sought-after restaurants in Singapore require reservations made 1-2 months in advance, particularly for weekend dining and special occasions. Many restaurants open their booking systems exactly 60 days in advance, with popular slots filling within hours of availability.
Peak dining times occur between 7-9 PM for dinner service, with these prime slots typically booking first. Lunch reservations are often easier to secure and may offer the same menu at reduced prices, making them excellent value for experiencing top restaurants on a budget.
Some restaurants maintain waitlists for cancellations, and calling directly may provide access to tables that don’t appear available online. Building relationships with restaurant staff through repeat visits can also provide advantages for securing prime reservation times.
Dress Codes and Dining Etiquette
Dress codes vary significantly among Singapore’s top restaurants, ranging from smart casual to formal attire. Fine dining establishments typically require smart casual attire at minimum, with some requesting business attire or formal dress for dinner service.
Many restaurants provide specific dress code guidelines on their websites or during reservation confirmation. When in doubt, slightly overdressing is preferable to arriving inappropriately attired, particularly for special occasion dining.
Singapore’s multicultural dining scene embraces various dining customs, though Western etiquette generally applies at most upscale establishments.
Transportation and Accessibility
Most of Singapore’s top restaurants are accessible via public transportation, with detailed directions available through the city’s excellent transit system. Taxis and ride-sharing services provide convenient access to restaurants in all neighborhoods, though booking return transportation during peak hours is recommended.
Many restaurants offer valet parking services, particularly those in shopping complexes and hotels. Restaurant staff can provide specific parking recommendations for each location, including nearby public parking options.
Accessibility accommodations are widely available, with most modern restaurants providing wheelchair access and other necessary facilities. Calling ahead to discuss specific accessibility needs ensures that all diners can enjoy these exceptional dining experiences.
Dietary Restrictions and Special Needs
Singapore’s restaurants generally accommodate dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and allergy-specific requirements. Many establishments offer separate menus or customized options for diners with specific dietary needs.
Communicating dietary restrictions during reservation booking allows restaurants to prepare appropriately and ensures that all courses can be enjoyed safely. Many restaurants excel at creating alternative preparations that maintain the dining experience’s quality while accommodating restrictions.
Religious dietary requirements are well understood and accommodated throughout Singapore’s dining scene, with many restaurants holding appropriate certifications and following required protocols for halal, kosher, and other religiously-specific dietary requirements.
Start Your Best Restaurant Singapore Experience
To fully appreciate the dedication and artistry that define Singapore’s fine dining landscape—the same exacting standards that elevate street food to a global stage—one must seek out moments of focused, personal mastery. While the city offers grand theatrical experiences and sprawling international menus, the most profound experiences are often the most intimate.
For those who value singular expertise and an uncompromised commitment to seasonality and precision, securing a reservation at Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu is essential. Our limited eight-seat omakase counter offers a rare window into the shokunin spirit, where every piece is a direct connection to the master chef. Reserve your seat at this exclusive counter now to experience a uniquely intimate chapter in Singapore’s diverse and unforgettable culinary story.
