New places to eat in Singapore: August 2023
Looking for new places to eat in Singapore?
Singapore is home to a bustling food scene, with new establishments and fresh concepts setting up shop on our shores every month. We foodies are always in for a treat, thanks to the plethora of up-and-coming dining options to choose from.
This August, we see ’gram-worthy cafes with the prettiest bakes, internationally acclaimed joints and old-school-themed establishments that are sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia in you.
Be sure to bookmark this guide for monthly round-ups of the newest F&B businesses that opened their doors this year.
New openings in Singapore: August 2023
1. Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe
Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe at Craig Road is truly a peek into the past, what with its tastefully decorated retro interior (vintage memorabilia, anyone?) and nostalgic local fare.
Headed by Keith Kang, founder of Yang Ming Seafood, the establishment pays homage to old-school coffee shops in Malaysia and Singapore.
It’s also designed to resemble the heydeys of kopitiams (coffee shops) in the 1950s and 1980s, which makes for a unique dining experience like no other.
Look forward to classic breakfast favourites, namely handmade toast and soft-boiled eggs, as well as fan-favourite local dishes such as mee siam, hor fun and nasi lemak kukus.
2. Frosted by Fang
Popular home-based bakery Frosted by Fang has set up shop in a quiet HDB estate that’s right smack in the middle of three MRT stations — Tai Seng included. This is its first brick-and-mortar space, and it operates as a takeaway kiosk.
The menu changes monthly and August features a lineup of delicious creations, such as the rum cherry tiramisu and classic carrot walnut cake. There are also decadent cookies and brownies that are available for purchase.
3. Kelim Daktoritang
Fans of Korean food, don’t sleep on Kelim Daktoritang — a well-known Korean brand that has recently arrived in Singapore. Boasting more than 50 branches back home, it’s said to be one of Korea’s oldest and largest daktoritang (spicy chicken stew) eateries.
If you haven’t had the chance to try daktoritang in Singapore before, now is the perfect time to do so. Each stew comes chock-full of ingredients, such as chewy tteokbokki, potato, leeks and chicken. You can also add extra toppings to your preference, which includes enoki mushrooms, udon and more.
4. Lou Shang
It goes without saying that Singaporeans love themed cafes, and Lou Shang at Prinsep Street is the latest concept to be spotlighted in the F&B scene.
A cafe by day and a bar at night, it’s a HDB-themed establishment that’s located on the second floor of hidden bar Mama Diam.
Founded by Sebastian Ang, owner of Synthesis and Mama Diam, Lou Shang is his newest venture that pays homage to the sights and vibes of HDB dwellings from the 1980s and 1990s.
The eatery’s menu is an interesting one, spanning the likes of nostalgic childhood favourites, old-school desserts with a modern twist and more. The beverages are also concocted with local-inspired influences.
5. Margaret Market
Arriving at the west is the latest boutique dining concept: Margaret Market. It currently occupies the building where the old Commonwealth Avenue Wet Market and Food Centre once stood.
The interior has been converted into a chic and modernised boutique market. It has also curated a host of local brands, with an emphasis on local F&B businesses. All-new F&B concepts, as well as various familiar vendors such as Creamier and Ya Kun Kaya Toast, can be found in the market.
The space also houses a number of tenants that focus on lifestyle and health.
6. Tanyu Exclusive
Popular grilled fish brand Tanyu has just opened a new outlet at Jewel Changi Airport! It’s the brand’s first late-night concept that operates from 10pm to 3am, so travellers and easties alike can enjoy an indulgent meal despite the late hour.
Besides boasting its usual slate of signature dishes, there are also all-new elements at the Jewel outlet: A self-service ice jelly bar, for instance.
Diners can order special supper exclusives, such as stir-fried peanuts with anchovies and spicy grilled chicken feet, as well as enjoy 15% off their meals.
7. Milk & Cookies
Have you ever wondered what Famous Amos’ sinful cookies would taste like as desserts? Ponder no more, as Milk & Cookies is offering sweet treats that are created in collaboration with Famous Amos!
Famous Amos fans will be thrilled to know that the new takeaway concept at Cineleisure shopping mall features their favourite cookies incorporated into various desserts, such as milkshakes and soft-serves.
For those craving a cookie or two, fret not, as the store will also be selling Famous Amos’ iconic cookies in bags.
8. Yao Yao Sauerkraut Fish
China’s famous pickled fish brand Yao Yao Sauerkraut Fish has opened its doors at VivoCity shopping mall! As its name suggests, the restaurant is best known for its toothsome suan cai yu (sour vegetable fish).
Yao Yao VivoCity’s outlet marks the brand’s first overseas outpost in Singapore, which is also its flagship branch.
You’ll be impressed by its signature Yao Yao Sauerkraut Fish, which boasts tender slices of California white seabass prepared with suan cai (sauerkraut). It’s then served in a herbaceous broth that’s both tongue-numbing and addictive.
9. Back to Eden
Searching for vegan fare done well? Back to Eden is bound to please, what with its tantalising plant-based menu that’s great for both the environment and soul.
For the uninitiated, the joint was formerly occupied by brunch spot Curious Palette. It recently rebranded as an artisanal, all-day dining concept that is now Back to Eden.
Beyond flavourful contemporary mains, look forward to vegan-friendly bakes, freshly prepared in-house at its micro-bakery. There is also a range of healthy fruit smoothies that are wonderful thirst quenchers.
10. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Singapore’s hot weather certainly calls for creamy, ice-cold desserts. And if you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up in town, check out Van Leeuwen Ice Cream at Orchard Central shopping mall.
Helmed by ice-cream extraordinaire Peter Van Leeuwen, the French ice-cream brand has opened its first international outpost in Singapore.
The local outlet is a joint venture with Singapore F&B group Caerus Holding, who is behind other big-name franchises such as Lady M and Mr Holmes Bakehouse.
Ice-cream lovers can expect a plethora of delightful flavours, such as Sicilian pistachio, mint chip and praline butter cake.
11. Thai Supermarket
Why book a flight to the Land of Smiles when you can experience authentic Thai vibes right here in Singapore? Heads up, for Aperia Mall welcomes the newly relocated Thai Supermarket, one of Golden Mile’s anchor tenants since 1985.
Feel free to stock up on Thai groceries and snacks to your heart’s content — we won’t judge. But if you’re craving local delicacies, there’s also a host of Thai street vendors to choose from, such as Folks Collective and Slurp Noodle Bar.
Fan-favourite dishes at the Thai Supermarket include boat noodles, raw seafood and fried sweet potato balls.
12. Cotelato
Pop by the all-new Cotelato Cafe at HillV2, a dessert parlour serving designer-inspired handbag cakes and teas with flowers that bloom in a pot. It’s a multi-sensorial concept by Danny Pang, the founder of Spruce restaurant.
Think desserts presented in a breakable chocolate sphere (accompanied by a hammer), gorgeous tea cakes served on a musical carousel and fluffy, jiggly souffle pancakes — what’s not to love?
All sweet treats are prepared with quality ingredients, so you’re getting a huge bang for your buck.
New openings in Singapore: July 2023
1. Cafe Ren
Farrer Park is home to a thriving cafe enclave, with popular establishments such as Wooly’s Bagels and SYIP in the area.
Now joining the fray of crowd-favourite joints is Cafe Ren, a sleek brunch spot with ’gram-worthy mains. While its menu isn’t particularly adventurous, diners will be pleased to find comforting classics such as the mushroom cheese toastie and Asian prawn and clam chilli pasta, among others.
You mustn’t miss the desserts, either. Besides its famous lava cookies, sweet treats also include the indulgent Artisan gelato and crumble, sweet potato cheesecake and more.
2. Aimer La Patisserie
Besides the influx of Thai restaurants at the newly revived Aperia Mall, the mall also welcomes new openings such as Aimer La Patisserie. Its namesake directly translates to “to love” in French, which is a cute touch to the cosy cafe.
This is the patisserie’s first brick-and-mortar outlet, having operated in the online space so far. Expect petite, gorgeous sweets that are sure to win you over at first sight, such as the popular daifuku mochis and puddings.
Our favourite is the classic fraisier — a traditional French cake that perfectly marries both strawberries and cream.
3. Rise Bakehouse
On the hunt for the next photo-worthy cafe? Then, you’ll love Rise Bakehouse — a picturesque spot with dainty tea cakes and hearty mains.
Foodies will undoubtedly be familiar with this popular establishment, as it was first introduced to the cafe scene as an aesthetic, all-pink joint in Potong Pasir. The cafe was a huge hit with the crowd, and it now welcomes a new flagship outlet in Somerset.
Regulars will spot familiar signatures at its latest branch, such as its moreish waffles, fluffy teacakes and sliced cakes. Brunch favourites are also available on the menu, which includes the popular Rise breakfast and eggs on toast.
4. Honbo
Award-winning burger chain Honbo is finally opening its doors on July 28. Located in Chijmes, this is its first international outpost after six outlets across Hong Kong.
Look forward to delicious American-style burgers that are designed for the Asian palette, from the cut of the beef down to the making of the bun. The menu will feature Honbo’s crowd-favourite burgers, as well as Singapore exclusives.
That’s not all: The brand’s widely popular housemade Flaming Smash Sauce is also available as the perfect accompaniment to your burger.
5. Nesuto Jewel
Regulars of Nesuto will undoubtedly be familiar with the brand’s original outlet at Tras Street. Much to the delight of its customers, the famous Japanese-French patisserie has introduced its second branch at Jewel.
The new Jewel cafe features an indulgent lineup of outlet-exclusive desserts, such as the whiskey chocolate and chocolate orange cake. It also debuted its decadent chocolate bonbons, which are picture-perfect confectionaries wonderful as gifts.
6. Jamba Juice
Beat the heat with Jamba Juice’s refreshing smoothies or tuck into its power-packed energy bowls. The famous American smoothie brand, Jamba Juice, has opened at Changi Airport Terminal 1.
Familiar flavours from its US menu such as the Mango-a-go-go and Strawberry Wild are available at the local outlet. If you’re not feeling its classic blended smoothies, the brand is also armed with savouries and pastries that serve as a yummy pick-me-up.
Should the Changi Airport outlet be a tad out of your way, don’t fret: The brand expects to increase the number of Jamba stores in Singapore very soon.
7. Taiwan Night Markets
Good news, you can savour authentic Taiwanese delicacies right here in Singapore! Introducing the latest concept by local F&B group Fei Siong: Taiwan Night Markets.
Located at the basement of Orchard Cineleisure, Taiwan Night Markets brings Taiwan’s iconic night market charm to our sunny shores. Expect classic Taiwanese snacks such as scallion pancakes and salty crispy chicken, as well as fan-favourite dishes including the silky oyster mee sua.
From July 28 till August 31, customers are entitled to 50% off a second beverage at Charlie Charlie!, one of the vendors at the night market.
8. Poke Theory
Joining the wave of popular cafes in Telok Ayer is Poke Theory, which has taken over the vacant shophouse unit once occupied by Park Bench Deli. The new store is a 104-seater space, complete with its signature poke counter and a fresh colour palette.
It has also revamped its menu to incorporate a gym-diet-appropriate Samsui Chica and addictive Tempeh-tress. Diners can also choose from 18 different toppings and design their own poke bowls.
9. Snap Cafe
You don’t have to fly to Korea to experience its aesthetic cafes when you can check out Snap Cafe in Singapore. A new Korean-inspired concept at Telok Ayer, it serves indulgent pastries and savouries that are influenced by Korean flavours.
The best part? Its menu is incredibly affordable, wonderful for those who are on a budget.
Its creative brews are also the draw at the cafe. Look forward to unique offerings such as pistachio espresso latte and orange Americano. Iced versions for all coffee beverages are also free of charge here.
10. Pies & Pints
Treat yourself to authentic Western-style pie at Pies & Pints — a passion project by a group of Brits, Americans and locals who share a love for pies.
Handmade with premium ingredients, the shop focuses on classic pies with traditional flavours, based on classic pairings commonly found in Sydney and parts of England. This includes the Cornish pasty and English pork pie, among others.
11. Cafe Margaret
Calling all cafe hoppers: Cafe Margaret has opened its first international outpost in Singapore! The popular Seoul dessert cafe brings its unique cube pies and tantalising bakes to our shores, complete with an Instagram-worthy space.
It’s nestled in a two-storey shophouse along Bali Lane in Bugis, and is easily spotted by its picturesque front porch. It also boasts the same homely vibe as its flagship outlet in Seoul.
For those unsure of its exact location, Cafe Margaret has taken over the unit once occupied by Brotherbird Coffeehouse.
New openings in Singapore: June 2023
1. Joo Chiat Oyster House
Joo Chiat Oyster House has opened its doors to much fanfare. The latest venture by the folks behind Kings Cart Coffee House, this new establishment marks the team’s first foray into the restaurant scene with a non-coffee concept.
It’s a one-stop shop for oyster lovers and cocktail enthusiasts, for the restaurant boasts creative boozy concoctions and creamy smooth oysters.
When you’re here, be sure to order the signature flavoured oysters, which are topped with a myriad of ingredients. Alternatively, its host of mains will undoubtedly tickle your fancy.
2. The Bank
Another retro joint to check out this month is none other than The Bank — an 80s-inspired burger bar that’s best known for its indulgent burgers. The establishment is located on Craig Road and hidden behind an “ATM”.
Behind the ATM is a swanky, vibrant shindig that oozes retro American-style vibes. Besides its immaculate aesthetic, the restaurant also serves its signature New York-style cheeseburgers that are made with 100% Angus prime beef patty and American cheese.
For those craving a tipple, The Bank offers 12 thirst-quenching craft beers on tap.
3. Mish Mash
If you’re looking for groovy date spots that promise a good time, look no further than Mish Mash. Opened by Prolific Concepts, the architect of famous restaurants such as The Feather Blade and Rappu, it’s a new gastrobar that offers good booze and great vibes.
Found along South Bridge Road, this retro-themed bar has a menu chockfull of quirky fusion bites and salaciously named cocktails. Think tipples such as Bubble Butt, Carnal Carnage, Cocoa Climax and more. What’s not to love?
4. SwirlGo Omakase Gelato Lab
Whoever said you can’t have everything you want in life clearly needs a visit to SwirlGo’s new ice-cream parlour.
This homegrown soft-serve brand welcomes you to make the ice-cream creation of your dreams, no matter how outrageous it may look or sound.
Dessert connoisseurs are invited to choose from a whopping 32 mix-in items. Simply pick your desired ingredients on the order chit and wait for the magic to happen.
Love pastries? Include a croissant, eclair or even a nyonya kueh in your ice cream and no one will bat an eye. Those craving durian can also get their hands on D24 durian.
SwirlGo’s signature Lao Gan Ma ice cream is back, too. — Foo Jia-En
Check out our visit to SwirlGo Omakase Gelato Lab in Wisma Atria.
5. Ssada Gimbab
For authentic hand-rolled kimbaps and bunsik (everyday Korean food), head to Ssada Gimbab.
It opened in June and is the newest kid on the mini-Koreatown block in Bukit Timah.
At this family-run restaurant, you can be sure your kimbaps are made the authentic way. Just look to the kindly ajumma (Korean aunty) methodically rolling your meal by the front till.
Besides Korean staples such as kimchi stew (S$13), we spied unique fusion offerings on its menu. Think kimbaps with thick pork cutlets (S$11), mala pork (S$11), and more. — Foo Jia-En
6. Fico
Helmed by Michelin-lauded chef Mirko Febbrile, this buzzy restaurant boasts quality Italian fare, alongside scenic views of our island’s eastern coast.
You might recognise Febbrile from his viral hawker pop-up with Clarence Chooi of the now-defunct Nudedles.4, which saw snaking queues that stretched on for more than four hours.
Febbrile drew on his native Puglia, a coastal area in southern Italy, for the restaurant. On the menu are fresh seafood and produce as well as his signature handmade pasta.
Be sure to order the spaghetti cacio e pepe (S$26), served tableside from a wheel of pecorino cheese, as well as the toothsome focaccina (from S$18), a focaccia-pizza hybrid. — Foo Jia-En
7. BKK Bistro & Bar
If you’ve been a huge fan of the famous 80-cent boat noodles at Orto in Yishun, you’d be pleased to know that you can still get your fix, despite the leisure park’s imminent closure in late June.
While Orto has since moved into its new home at West Coast, BKK Bistro & Bar — the restaurant behind the cheap yet tasty boat-noodle offerings — will not be going there.
Instead, BKK Bistro & Bar has opened a new, more centrally located store in Kallang, with new restaurant exclusives and longer opening hours.
As usual, boat-noodle fans have a choice of glass or rice noodles as well as two broths — red tom yum or herb boat-noodle soup. You can also add on toppings such as prawns, beef balls, pork liver, and more. Larger portions are also available from S$7.80 onwards. — Foo Jia-En
8. Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup
A fan of Michelin Bib Gourmand lister Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup?
Eastside fans will no longer need to travel to Tiong Bahru, its flagship stall, to get their fix.
Third-generation owner Thomas Koh has opened a second outpost in Tampines, dishing up its signature offerings of pig’s organ soup and innards.
This was after he found out that many of his loyal customers were based in the east.
Besides Koh’s mainstays, new braised dishes are now available at the stall. There are big intestines (S$5), big intestine head (S$6) and powdery small intestines (S$5). — Foo Jia-En
Take a closer look at Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup in Tampines.
New openings in Singapore: May 2023
1. So Lemak
Helmed by 25-year-old chef Shanice Lim, So Lemak is a nasi lemak hawker stall at Bedok North that serves tasty har cheong gai paired with coconut rice.
While its prawn paste wings are undoubtedly the highlight at the eatery, Lim has plans to incorporate seafood and sambal-based dishes into the menu.
If there’s a dish that we’d come back for, it’s the signature So Lemak set, which comes with prawn paste wings, grilled otah, and fried kuning fish among other sides.
2. Mister Donut: Popular donut chain opens first outlet in Bishan
Calling all donut lovers! Famed donut chain, Mister Donut, is now open at Bishan’s Junction 8 shopping centre. The brand is brought in by local food group RE&S, which is behind other Japanese eateries, such as Yakiniku-GO and Ichiban Boshi.
Launched on May 21, the store has drawn long queues, with wait times hitting more than three hours at one point.
The brand once held a pop-up store at Jurong Point shopping centre back in 2022. Its brief stint also drew long queues daily, with Singaporeans queuing for up to five hours in line – a testament to how popular the brand is in Singapore.
If you do manage to get to the front of the queue, be sure to grab its signature Pon De Ring as well as its Singapore-exclusive flavour, strawberry chocolate!
3. Pang Pang Western Food: Affordable Western grub in Marine Parade
There’s nothing we love more than affordable and delicious grub. Our cravings are satiated at Pang Pang Western Food, for the joint boasts hearty, local-style Western classics that are a bang for our buck.
Situated in a coffee shop at Marine Parade Central Market and Food Centre, the eatery is helmed by two brothers, Lucas and Bernard Pang. Both siblings have previously worked at Astons and iSteaks, among other establishments.
Though simple, the brothers take pride in their menu. After all, Pang Pang Western Food was born from their love for Western fare and a dream to introduce more diners to their cooking.
4. Elijah Pies: Savour artisanal pies at its new, gorgeous dine-in space
Artisanal pie specialist, Elijah Pies, has opened its first dine-in concept at Tanjong Pagar Plaza. Foodies may have heard of the brand, for it started out as an online bakery in 2014. Thanks to its imaginative and ’gram-worthy bakes, it has skyrocketed as one of the most-talked-about pie brands in Singapore.
The story of Elijah Pies is a sweet one. Owners Elijah and Limin first operated out of a central kitchen at King George’s Avenue. Their pies were such a hit that they decided to open a dine-in cafe in the heart of CBD, and rightfully so.
With a menu of tasty, handcrafted pies touting familiar flavours, it’s love (or a bite) at first sight.
5. Marmalade Pantry: Latest al fresco concept at Anchorpoint Shopping Centre
Anchorpoint Shopping Centre has undergone some redevelopments of late, with new F&B entrants entering the fray. The Marmalade Pantry is one of those occupants, and it boasts a stunning al fresco dining concept that seats 28.
To mark its opening, diners are spoiled with floral afternoon tea sets that are part of a one-for-one promotion. There’re also gifts up for grabs with minimum spending at the restaurant, with terms and conditions applied.
Menu-wise, it’s an enticing one, with outlet-exclusive dishes such as the tortilla with mesclun salad.
6. Lian Wah Kopitiam: 77-year-old brand revamps with a vibrant, modern space
Residents in Ang Mo Kio should check out the newly revamped Lian Wah Kopitiam! The 77-year-old brand now sports a new look with vibrant and modern fixtures.
Diners can expect established food vendors such as Five Star Dim Sum, Heng Heng Herbal Soup and 8889 Chicken Pot, including a welcome addition of craft beer taps.
Operated by beer bistro, Get Some, diners will be thrilled to know that there are 10 different brews on tap from local and international breweries.
To mark the coffee shop’s opening, Get Some and Lian Wah Kopitiam are also offering a beer promotion throughout the month of May.
7. Allpress Espresso: International coffee brand opens first-ever pop-up cafe in Singapore
Coffee connoisseurs, rejoice! Another coffee house has opened its doors in Singapore: Allpress Espresso. Hailing from Auckland, New Zealand, the brand has been supplying its beans and wares to independent cafes in Singapore.
It has now joined hands with The Dark Gallery to open its first pop-up cafe in Tanjong Pagar, which will run for six months, starting from May 2. The space is a cosy 25-seater that’s decorated in pastel hues and chrome furnishings.
Customers can expect Allpress’s signature roast blends, as well as a plethora of sweet and savoury nibbles.
New openings in Singapore: April 2023
1. Two Men Bagel House: Bagel specialist opens new outlet at Joo Chiat
Calling all bagel lovers! Acclaimed bagel specialist, Two Men Bagel House, is opening its fourth outlet at Joo Chiat on April 29.
The new branch will be doling out good ol’ hearty, loaded sandwiches that regulars know and love, including classics such as the lox. And of course, one can expect to savour exciting outlet exclusives, though full details have yet to be released.
Check Two Men Bagel House Joo Chiat out here and read our review about the space.
2. BHC Chicken: Famed Korean fried chicken brand opens in Singapore
The wait is finally over, as BHC Chicken has officially opened its doors in Singapore. This is its fourth overseas outpost, with two located in Hong Kong and another in Malaysia.
The brand is not titled the maestro of fried chicken in South Korea for nothing. Its menu sees eight different tantalising chicken flavours that are fried to perfection, as well as a myriad of Korean snacks and mains.
Popular flavours include the Bburinkle and Macho King that are both available boneless or as wings.
3. The Fat Kid Bakery: Popular sourdough bomboloni bakery relocates to Amoy Street
Loyal supporters of The Fat Kid Bakery will be ecstatic to know that the beloved sourdough bomboloni (stuffed Italian donuts) brand has relocated to Amoy Street!
Previously situated at an ulu (secluded) spot in Ang Mo Kio, the establishment has now moved to a much more convenient location that’s a mere few minutes’ walk from Telok Ayer MRT station.
There’re both sweet and savoury options to choose from. The latter comprises a drool-worthy torched mentaiko and roasted garlic mascarpone – who knew that savoury donuts could get this good?
4. Krispy Kreme: New donut cafe at Suntec City with store-exclusive flavours
What is it about donuts that we simply can’t say no to? If you have a sweet tooth like we do, then Krispy Kreme’s latest donut cafe at Suntec City is right up your alley.
The world-famous donut brand has given the outlet an overhaul, which comes complete with brand-new furnishings and a seating area that fits around 16.
Beyond its cosy new space, diners are also spoiled with three store-exclusive flavours that are unique to the Suntec City outlet. Think: Matcha Crunch, Choco Bomb and Espress-o.
5. Coach Cafe: World’s first Coach Cafe opens in Singapore
Luxury fashion house, Coach, has just opened its world’s first Coach Cafe in Singapore! Located along Keong Saik Road, the three-storey establishment boasts gorgeous bubblegum hues and retro American diner vibes.
It’s a multi-concept store that serves more than just breakfast items and mains, for there’s even a retail space and immersive exhibition to look forward to. Foodwise, the iconic fashion label has collaborated with homegrown cafe brand, Brawns and Brains, for its food and beverage offerings.
Tap to read about Coach Cafe here.
6. Cafe Lilac: Taro-themed cafe with beautiful purple desserts
Foodies who’re into the next big Insta-worthy fad should check out Cafe Lilac, a taro-themed cafe touting stunning purple desserts. Think: Purple-hued taro mochi swiss rolls and lavender taro crepe cakes – they’re bound to attract both the young and old!
The cafe is opened by the same folks behind Whisking Bakes. The popular homegrown pastry shop underwent an overhaul in February and rebranded to Cafe Lilac, a full-fledged taro haven that’s also serving hot and savoury dishes.
Besides yummy taro-themed desserts, savouries include all-day breakfasts, stews and sandwiches.
New openings in Singapore: March 2023
1. Pretzel Planet: Aesthetic American-inspired joint serving sweet and savoury pretzels
Joining the bustling F&B scene in Singapore is none other than Pretzel Planet. Situated in the newly opened Sengkang Grand Mall, the outlet is retrofitted in a vintage, cinema-store aesthetic that’s covered in bubblegum pink and bright LED decor.
It’s not just the interior that’s fantastic for the ’gram. Its array of sweet and savoury pretzels is picture-perfect, too. There’s the umami mentaiko, s’mores supreme and almond crunch – all of which are tasty and highly addictive.
2. 2KulGuyz: Affordable Muslim-owned handmade pasta bar
If you’re on the hunt for wallet-friendly pasta options, be sure to check out 2KulGuyz. The latest occupant in One-North, the bistro is 100% Muslim-owned and spearheaded by chef-owner Sazali Ahmad.
Ahmad was previously the head chef at Pezzo Group and corporate chef at The Black Hole Group. He has also worked in fine-dining restaurants such as Italy’s acclaimed Cova Pasticceria-Confetteria Singapore.
Here, pasta is handmade in-house and dried. There’s also a wide variety of sides and snacks for you to choose from, which differ at lunch and dinner. A staple that’s available during both lunch and dinner is the smoked duck aglio olio, which comes with a kiss of chilli, housemade herb butter, and at dinnertime, an extra dose of smoke from a smoke chamber.
3. Wild Crumbs: Casual sando venture by the “Beng Who Cooks”
The chef behind the now-shuttered poke stall, Beng Who Cooks, Jason Chua, is back in the game with his latest venture: Wild Crumbs. Singaporeans will be familiar with the man, who was a former boxer that represented Singapore internationally.
Wild Crumbs marks Chua’s return to the F&B scene. It’s his take on a lunch-only, casual sando joint for workers in One-North. The eatery serves mainly fuss-free sandos and hearty rice bowls.
The sandos are go-to fixtures at the eatery, especially the bestselling egg mayo and pork katsu. There are also other indulgent options, namely the crab roll and pulled pork sandos.
4. Luckin Coffee: China’s largest coffee chain serving affordable beverages
China’s biggest coffee chain, Luckin Coffee, has just opened its first-ever overseas outpost in Singapore! Its outlets are conveniently located in town, at Ngee Ann City and Marina Square.
The popular coffee brand is set to open other branches on our sunny shores, including Guoco Tower, Aperia and Jewel Changi Airport.
Coffee aficionados can look forward to affordable, quality brews, such as its acclaimed ice coconut latte. All beverages are capped at S$6.80, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank to sip on a cup of joe.
5. 808 Eating House: Casual eatery boasting fusion fare
If you’re roaming the streets of Joo Chiat, be sure to pop by 808 Eating House. The newly opened establishment is helmed by Chef Eugene Chee, who previously trained at Michelin-starred restaurants.
Expect a casual, inviting space at 808 Eating House that seats 29 – it makes for the perfect spot to chill with friends on a Friday evening. The menu also touts Southeast Asian cuisine, with stellar dishes such as the sweet XL clams and seasonal oysters.
6. Synthesis: Stunning speakeasy hidden behind a TCM shopfront
Helmed by Sebastian Ang, the owner behind popular retro gastrobar Mama Diam, Synthesis is an oriental-themed speakeasy hidden behind a Chinese medicine (TCM) shopfront. Here, diners can look forward to delectable mod-Sin fare, where nostalgic local classics are reimagined into creative new twists.
Synthesis offers a unique sensorial experience that’s a refreshing breath of fresh air; it’s not quite like anything we’ve seen in Singapore.
7. Cantine Corner: Muslim-friendly food court with S$3 budget meals
There’s nothing we love better than affordable meals, and Cantine Corner serves just that. Located at Admiralty Place, the Muslim-friendly food court sees nine curated food stalls that offer dishes at wallet-friendly prices. For those seeking a bang for their buck, each tenant has the option of a budget meal that’s priced at S$3.
Here’s a pro tip: You save more when you pay with the FairPrice app.
8. [Closed] Dakga: SG’s first chicken-only BBQ
If you’re craving a good ol’ plate of grilled chicken, new barbecue joint Dakga will impress you with its flavoursome dishes. It’s a chicken-only restaurant, so you can find quality meats and all manner of parts here.
Besides the typical thigh, there’re unusual cuts for adventurous eaters, such as the gizzard, neck and heart. The Korean eatery also serves hearty rice-based and noodle dishes, if you’re not feeling barbecue.
9. Mutiara Seafood: Muslim-friendly seafood restaurant by Jumbo Group
Hands up if you love seafood! Jumbo Group has just launched its first Muslim-friendly seafood restaurant in Singapore: Mutiara Seafood. The eatery is nestled in Wisma Geylang Serai, where diners can feast on a plethora of succulent seafood dishes.
There’s the signature chilli crab that we know and love, as well as a grilled section with options such as the grilled chicken satay with peanut sauce.
To celebrate its opening, Mutiara Seafood is giving away vouchers to take S$50 off your next meal.
For more ideas on what to eat, check out our guides on the best Tanjong Pagar food places and spots for the top fried oyster omelette in Singapore.
You can also book a ride to check out these newly-opened eateries.
Do explore the new GrabFood Dine-in service for awesome deals.
Stay on top of the latest food news and trends in Singapore. Follow HungryGoWhere on Facebook, Instagram, Telegram, and TikTok!
Phyllis Leong
Author
Phyllis is a sweet tooth with a love for all things dessert. If you are looking to hit up the newest ice-cream parlour in town, you know who to call.
