Singapore Nature & Outdoors

This Singapore icon no doubt already occupies the top spot of many to-do lists, and for good reason. The country's most famous hotel first opened its doors back in 1887 and has been wowing visitors ever since! SO, what’s this got to do with food and drink? Well, in 1915, the Singapore Sling- a staple on cocktail lists throughout the world - was invented right here, in the infamous Long Bar. There’s a fun story around its invention too! A clever bartender created the concoction for female patrons, who for etiquette reasons weren’t allowed to consume alcohol in public. Sneakily, he disguised the clear spirit amongst fruit juices and cherry liqueurs to give it a pink, inconspicuous hue! Adding to the novelty and in keeping with tradition, visitors are encouraged to brush their peanut shells on the floor, just as the Malayan plantation worker patrons did many moons ago.

Other bars throughout the city-state are following suit too, when it comes to inventing original pick-me-ups. Be sure to check out Native Bar in China Town, regularly featuring on the '50 Best Bars in the World' list. Visit the in-house experimentation lab where tantalising zero-waste cocktails are dreamed up.

Across the globe, food markets are fast becoming one of the trendiest ways to dine. But, in Singapore, the locals have been favouring their version, the Hawker Centre, for decades. Sprinkled throughout the city state, these casual foodie hubs are home to some of the most authentic and flavourful dishes you can get your hands on. And, if you needed another reason to hit up these eateries, then guess what? They are incredible value for money! 

The centrally located Newton Food Centre is always buzzing. If you’re a film buff, you may recognise this spot from the Hollywood smash hit ‘Crazy Rich Asians’. This particular Hawker also played host to Gordon Ramsey, when he competed in the SingTel Hawker Heroes Challenge. The celebrity chef couldn’t quite compete with the locals with his version of the classic chicken rice, however he did win the crowds over with his take on the Singaporean staple - chilli crab.  Another top-spot is Lau Pau Sat, designed in the 1830’s and since lovingly restored to its former glory. Here, you’ll find the legendary Satay Street, where chicken, beef and prawn skewers sizzle street-side. Or, go on a culinary journey as you tuck into a range of international fare from the likes of Korea, North India and Vietnam.

Singapore certainly isn’t a wallflower when it comes to fine dining, in fact, it’s a very big hitter! Boasting no less than 42 One Michelin Star and seven Two Michelin Star restaurants, you’re spoilt for choice in the Lion City. Amongst the One Star big hitters is Burnt Ends, a relatively relaxed dining experience with a modern open concept kitchen. Be sure to arrive hungry, as this Australian-inspired barbecue serves up colossal cuts of meat straight from the wood-burning machine, adding to that all important smoky flavour. For a more affordable option, head over to Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle - the only Hawker Centre stall to claim the coveted star. Dive head first into a hearty serving of noodles, juicy pork and fried fish - a dish enjoyed by locals since the stalls opening in 1932.

Take it up  another notch and book in to one of the sophisticated Two-Star establishments. Experience a taste of home by popping into JAAN by Kirk Westaway, a Devon local who hot footed it across the globe to show off his skills and showcase the finest ingredients he could get his hands on.  Get glammed up and head out on a gastronomic journey to Waku Ghin for their signature ten-course, Japanese-European fusion degustation menu. Don’t miss the Three-Star offerings either, Le Amis, Odette and Zen.

You may have heard Singapore being referred to as the gateway to South-East Asia- and that’s most defiantly relevant to the food scene also. The city-state’s a melting pot of flavours from the likes of China, India, Malaysia and Indonesia, to name a few. During your visit you simply must sample Peranakan food, the term means ‘local born’ and refers to the style of cooking of those with Chinese, Malay and Indonesian heritage who were among the first to settle in Singapore. Try out Candlenut, the one and only Peranakan restaurant to scoop a Michelin Star or perhaps Rempapa with its spicy chicken curries and fragrant rice dishes.

For an Indian inspired feast there’s only one place to be- Muthu’s Curry in Little India. Famed for its fish head curry which has been a staple on the menu for over 50 years as well as crowd pleasing favourites such as biryani and naans straight form the clay oven. Continue the theme and head to The Elephant Room, a cosy bar with cocktails inspired by India’s states, the weird and wonderful flavour combinations taste surprisingly spectacular!