15 Ion Orchard food spots for every palate and budget

By Shana Tan October 30, 2024
15 Ion Orchard food spots for every palate and budget
Photos (clockwise from left): Surrey Hills/Instagram, Sen-ryo/Instagram, Ramen Nagi/Instagram, Hoshino Coffee/Instagram

With so many options, finding the perfect Ion Orchard food spot to satisfy your hunger can be pretty challenging, especially if you’re already tired from hours of shopping. 

Ion Orchard, situated at the bustling intersection of Paterson Road and Orchard Road, is a shopping mall that’s been the pinnacle of Singapore’s retail scene since 2009. The mall continually adapts to retail trends and optimises its tenant mix, providing shoppers with a holistic shopping experience, from renowned restaurants and cafes to international fashion brands.

Our list of 15 Ion Orchard food joints includes casual dining, cafes, and restaurants — all great spots you should visit for good food and great vibes, whether you’re looking for a quick bite mid-shopping spree or a rewarding feast for dinner

1. Surrey Hills Grocer 

Ion Orchard, 05-02, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 10pm)

Photo: Surrey Hills Grocer/Instagram

Why visit? Surrey Hills Grocer is the place to be if you’re looking for a taste of Australian brunch fare right in the heart of Orchard Road. This cafe-meets-gourmet grocer offers fresh produce and fusion Western dishes such as pasta and sandwiches. 

With four outlets across the island, each location has a unique vibe and outlet-specific menu items. At the Ion Orchard branch, you can anticipate the same warm Aussie hospitality and an array of fresh groceries to restock your pantry.

Crowd favourites: When it comes to outlet exclusives, we recommend the truffle pasta (S$28), which has a deliciously creamy truffle mushroom base and is topped with moreish parmigiano reggiano.

If you’re here for brunch, don’t miss out on the exclusive BBQ pulled pork benny (S$29), served with melt-in-your-mouth pork shoulder and a rich, velvety hollandaise sauce.

2. Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice

Ion Orchard, B4-66, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 9pm)

Photo: Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice/Instagram

Why visit? Those who love curry rice would be no strangers to Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice, located within the mall’s basement food court.

At this Ion Orchard food spot, you’ll discover aromatic curries accompanied by a crunchy side of fresh vegetables. Additionally, a plate at this food spot starts at just S$5.50, making it an excellent and affordable option for filling nosh in the heart of the city!

Crowd favourites: Unlike its other outlets, the Ion Orchard branch has set menus for those who have trouble deciding — the curry chicken wing curry rice (S$5.80) is well-loved for its tender chicken wings, which are subtly sweet, thanks to the aromatic curry sauce.

Regulars also love the braised pork belly curry rice (S$6.30) for its generous serving size packed with succulent pork belly and curry drizzle.

3. Five Guys

Ion Orchard, B3-24/25/26, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm) 

A good ol’ classic cheeseburger. Photo: Five Guys Singapore/Instagram

Why visit? Five Guys needs no introduction: This beloved American fast-food chain has been delighting local fans with its signature customisable burgers, hot dogs, and crispy fries since its Singaporean outpost launched in 2019.

We love Five Guys for its famous 15-topping burger, but did you know you can also personalise its milkshakes? With free mix-ins such as peanut butter, salted caramel, banana, and even applewood smoked bacon, there’s a topping for every preference, whether you’re into sweet, salty or smoky goodness.

Crowd favourites: Classic fans will appreciate the cheeseburger (S$17), a tasty combination of savoury beef, melted cheese and other optional toppings. 

For a delightful crunch, try the little bacon cheeseburger (S$17.50), which includes smoky bacon for an added layer of texture.

4. Tempura Tendon Tenya

Ion Orchard, B4-56, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Ice-cold soba to beat the heat. Photo: Tenya/Instagram

Why visit? Tempura Tendon Tenya, or more popularly known as Tenya, is a renowned Japanese tendon (tempura rice bowl) chain with over 150 outlets across Japan. Labelled as the No.1 Tendon chain restaurant, the brand consistently attracts large crowds throughout the day for its delicious and fuss-free tendon.

What sets this Ion Orchard food place apart is its commitment to affordability. It aims to serve customers with high-quality tempura and tendon at prices approximately 25% lower than its competitors, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable dining experience for all.

Crowd favourites: Seafood enthusiasts will delight in the prawn tendon (S$14.10) — crunchy, savoury and downright satisfying. 

Try the kakiage tendon (vegetable fritters tendon, S$9.50) for a taste that hits closer to home. This dish offers comforting flavours reminiscent of cucur sayur (vegetable fritters), adding a local touch to your Tenya meal.

5. Ramen Nagi

Ion Orchard, B4-54, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Freshly made ramen is always the best. Photo: Ramen Nagi/Instagram

Why visit? If you’re a ramen fanatic, you’d know that Ramen Nagi is a renowned ramen chain from Fukuoka, Japan, founded by chef Satoshi Ikuta. This celebrated eatery has won the Tokyo Ramen of the Year Championship in 2012, and now boasts over 50 outlets globally.

Ramen Nagi’s success is built upon its creamy, aromatic broth and meticulously prepared noodles. The option to customise noodle firmness and thickness allows you to create your perfect ramen bowl — one that’s so enticing you’ll be tempted to finish every last drop!

Crowd favourites: Regulars love its Black King ramen (S$17.90) for its generous portion and delicious black garlic and squid ink richness. 

Its signature butao king (S$15.90) is also a top choice — it stands out with its savoury broth thickened with rich collagen.

6. Plain Vanilla 

Ion Orchard, B1-06, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 7.30pm)

Photo: Plain Vanilla/Instagram

Why visit? Located within the flagship store of local fashion brand In Good Company, Plain Vanilla offers a welcome respite from the city’s frenetic pace. Here, you’ll find its cupcakes and exquisite bakes, which you can pair with its fresh sandwiches and salads.

This cosy spot is perfect for savouring a delightful cup of cafe latte (S$5.80) for a relaxing break during your shopping spree or simply a chill hangout with friends.

Crowd favourites: The dark chocolate ganache cupcake (S$4.80) is a must-try for chocolate enthusiasts. Its decadent chocolatey sweetness is perfectly balanced with cocoa nibs that add a slightly bitter taste. 

Another popular option is the earl grey lavender cupcake (S$4.80), which features a rich tea base complemented by delicate floral notes of lavender frosting.

7. Hoshino Coffee

Ion Orchard, 03-17/18, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Thursday (11am to 9.30pm), Friday (11am to 10pm), Saturday (10am to 10pm), Sunday (10am to 9.30pm)

Specials from the Hokkaido hotate & ikura menu. Photo: Hoshino Coffee/Instagram

Why visit? Hoshino Coffee is a well-known spot for hand-dripped coffee. Originating from Japan, this dedicated coffee spot exclusively uses premium Arabica beans for its roasts.

Beyond its specialty coffee, Hoshino Coffee offers a variety of cafe dishes that have garnered a loyal following. Menu highlights, such as the chicken and mozzarella cutlet plate (S$17.90) and Hokkaido burnt cheesecake (S$9.90), provide a well-rounded experience for savoury and sweet cravings.

Crowd favourites: Try the pancake and omu souffle with Angus steak (S$20.80), featuring succulent meat and a delicate Japanese omelette. The highlight is the fluffy, cloud-like souffle pancakes.

Fancy more dessert? Try its blueberry mille crepe (S$8.50), a light and airy treat that’s not too sweet.

You can make a reservation at Hoshino Coffee at Ion Orchard via Chope.

8. The Assembly Ground

Ion Orchard, B2-49, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 10pm)

The popular Mexican pork stew. Photo: The Assembly Ground/Instagram

Why visit? The Assembly Ground is one of Singapore’s well-known local cafes, and is a solid spot to head to if you’re a fan of coffee and all things hearty. It recently took over the space of what used to be Le Matin Patisserie at Ion Orchard and features an updated menu.

The cafe’s distinctive glasshouse-inspired exterior adds an appealing element that’ll catch your eye as you walk past.

Crowd favourites: We recommend the Mexican pork stew (S$30), succulent pork belly served over fluffy, buttered rice — a spicy delight. Or if you’re game for something more robust, the chargrilled steak toast (S$22), is also quite the crowd-pleaser. 

To round off your meal, The Luna (S$9) is a must-try hazelnut treat, beautifully adorned with a dark chocolate glaze.

9. The Marmalade Pantry

Ion Orchard, 04-11A, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (10am to 10pm)

Say yes to fluffy pancakes! Photo: The Marmalade Pantry/Instagram

Why visit? Since opening in 1999, The Marmalade Pantry has become a familiar name among Singaporeans for its relaxed weekend brunches and delightful afternoon teas. 

While The Marmalade Pantry initially gained popularity for its exquisite cupcakes, it has since become a go-to spot for its lunchtime deals, including the flavourful kimchi steak fried rice (S$29) and an afternoon tea set for two (S$79) featuring sandwiches, tarts and an array of its renowned sweet treats.

Crowd favourites: You can’t go wrong with its chicken caprese focaccia (S$28), with tender sous-vide chicken and tangy sundried tomatoes bound by the creaminess from the buffalo mozzarella.

The pan-seared barramundi (S$32) is an ideal choice for a main course, featuring flaky fish with a fresh  flavour that needs nothing more than a drizzle of olive oil and light seasoning.

You can make a reservation at The Marmalade Pantry at Ion Orchard via Chope.

10. Yun Nans

Ion Orchard, B3-17, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Friday (11.30am to 10pm), Saturday and Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Crispy hor fun with truffle prawn broth. Photo: Yun Nans/Instagram

Why visit? If you’re looking for a taste of Yunnan cuisine in Singapore, you absolutely must check out Yun Nans. This restaurant is the first international venture of Yun Hai Yao, a mega-popular Yunnan F&B chain that’s loved by many for its braised fish maw with porcini mushroom (S$44.80).

Crowd favourites: For those looking for something special, its braised chicken noodles with dried chilli (S$19.80) with tender, juicy chicken with crispy fried noodles is a great main course option. 

The crispy bursting tofu (S$11.90) is also an ideal protein choice — you can opt for straightforward salt and pepper seasoning or one that’s served with spicy sauce for those who can take the heat.

11. Poulet + Brasserie

Ion Orchard, B3-21, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 10pm)

Roast chicken takes centre stage at Poulet + Brasserie. Photo: Poulet/Instagram

Why visit? If you’re looking for a taste of France without breaking the bank, this Ion Orchard food place Poulet + Brasserie has got you covered. Created by the same folks behind the popular French chain Poulet, this modern bistro serves delicious and affordable modern French fare.

Crowd favourites: Regulars rave about the signature roast chicken (S$17.90 for a half chicken), which is deliciously juicy and savoury. For larger groups, consider the whole chicken (S$32.90) to share with your friends and family.

The chicken homemade pot pie (S$17.90) is also well-loved for its generous chunks of meat and hearty flavours. 

12. Niku Kappo

Ion Orchard, B3-23, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 9.30pm)

Photo: Niku Kappo/Instagram

Why visit? Hailing from the famed Tsukiji district, Niku Kappo is an authentic Japanese eatery specialising in Kappo-style cuisine, which means ‘to cut and cook’ the traditional way with loads of love and dedication.

At this Ion Orchard food spot, the art of cooking meat dishes takes centre stage as skilled chefs meticulously prepare each dish in an open kitchen.

While most of its popularity stems from its unique Mt Fuji nabe (S$15.90) hotpot dish, made with beef and pork slices wrapped around vegetables that resemble Mount Fuji, it has since built up a steady following for its diverse Japanese menu, too.

Crowd favourites: The wagyu sukiyaki ju set (S$23.90), which comes with complimentary miso soup and salad, is a must-try. The tender, charred beef is marinated in a sweet sukiyaki sauce, creating a comforting experience that pairs well with rice.

The niku tendon set (S$18.90) is another standout choice with lightly battered pork and chicken — each bite delightfully crunchy and satisfying.

13. Sen-ryo

Ion Orchard, 03-17/18, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Platters of fresh seafood. Photo: Sen-ryo/Instagram

Why visit? High-quality sushi need not break the bank, especially at Sen-ryo. Originating from Tochigi, Japan, Sen-ryo distinguishes itself with a luxurious atmosphere while maintaining an affordable and authentic sushi experience faithful to its Japanese heritage.

Each dish at Sen-ryo is meticulously prepared to order, ensuring the utmost quality and freshness for every guest. The best part? You can enjoy prime salmon belly for just S$2.30.

Crowd favourites: For those who love a good value meal, choose its premium bento (S$25.80) loaded with meat and tempura options. Did we mention the set also comes with miso soup, salad and a mochi dessert?

There’s also a supreme sushi platter (S$36.80) with 10 assorted sushi choices, which are incredibly fresh and are rotated based on the seasons and ingredient availability. 

14. Violet Oon Singapore

Ion Orchard, 03-22, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 10pm)

Kuay pie tees. Photo: Violet Onn Singapore/Instagram

Why visit? Craving some heartwarming Peranakan cuisine? Violet Oon is an Ion Orchard food spot that serves these nostalgic flavours in an upscale, sophisticated atmosphere. 

Here, you’ll find iconic Peranakan dishes such as udang goreng chilli (fried prawns with chilli, S$37) and ngoh hiang (deep-fried beancurd skin roll, S$20).

Crowd favourites: Begin your meal with the flavourful shrimp paste chicken wings (S$19) to tantalise your tastebuds for the meal ahead. 

For your main course, the beef rendang (S$28) is a must-try, featuring tender beef in a fragrant coconut sauce. If you’re looking to add proteins to the table, we’d recommend the cod fish (S$40), served with a mildly spicy laksa sauce and a refreshing coriander pesto.

You can make a reservation at Violet Oon Singapore at Ion Orchard via Chope.

15. Taste Paradise

Ion Orchard, 04-07, 2 Orchard Turn
Open: Monday to Friday (11am to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm), Saturday to Sunday (10.30am to 4.30pm, 6pm to 10pm)

Home-cooked delights. Photo: Taste Paradise/Instagram

Why visit? Taste Paradise is an award-winning Cantonese restaurant that has been delighting patrons since 2002. Helmed by a pair of executive chefs, Chan Chung Sing and Chan Wing Kwong from Hong Kong, the restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on traditional Cantonese cuisine.

Crowd favourites: Regulars love the crisp-fried fish skin with salted egg yolk (S$15.80), which will have you reaching for more.

If you’re looking for shared plates, we recommend the roasted Peking duck (from S$58 for half a duck). Its juicy meat is encased in a crispy, golden skin that adds a delightful crunch — perfect for sharing among friends and family.

Hungry for more? Check out Silk, a new tea brand hailing from Hong Kong, that’s recently opened at Orchard Gateway, or Chamoon, a popular hotpot brand from China that’s opened at Scotts Square. 

All of the stores, except Violet Onn and Ingen Kyoto, are on the GrabFood Delivery Service and offer free delivery (up to S$3 off) with GrabUnlimited.   

Enjoy up to 50% off when you dine with GrabFood Dine Out.

Alternatively, book a ride to these Ion Orchard food spots.


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Shana Tan

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A programmer by day, Shana lives for tasty food and unusual adventures. Never seen far from her laptop, she somehow manages to sneak in the exploration of hidden spots and eats in between all that coding.

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