Ah, the scent of romance is in the air. Whether you’re the dreamy type who loves surprising your significant other with picturesque dates, or you don’t possess a romantic bone in your body, it’s always handy to have a number of date-worthy places at the back of your mind. Just in case you need to crank one out for spontaneity’s sake.
Even though Singapore isn’t exactly known for being a city of love, we’ve got plenty of idyllic spaces for couples to get all lovey-dovey with one another. From restaurants on the affordable end of the spectrum to all-out splurges when you want to pamper your partner, the list ranges from classy to casual, with cuisines like Peranakan and Greek alongside experimental fare.
Read on for our romantic recommendations.
Artemis Grill
With a view of the Marina Bay area from up high, Artemis Grill is an elegant space for pre-dinner cocktails and panoramic sights. Perched on the rooftop of CapitaGreen, away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD, it serves up a medley of Mediterranean-inspired dishes made with fresh, sustainable produce.
Dinner is when you’re treated to the glittering lights of the city skyline while you enjoy plates of black cod, Iberico pork loin, grilled lamb rack, and bone-in ribeye côte de bœuf. But with seasonal tasting menus going for $128 per person, expect to pay a pretty penny for your night of romance.
CapitaGreen Rooftop, L40, 138 Market St, 6635-8677. Mon-Fri 11:30am-late, Sat 6pm-late.
Atlas
Atlas is impressive, no doubt. The high ceilings, the Art Deco-inspired bar, the Great Gatsby vibes, the extravagant opulence… everything adds up to a surreal experience, especially when you’re settled nicely on a plush seat, admiring your majestic surroundings (and your partner, of course).
When you’re done gaping at the three-story gin tower, take a dive into the menu for entrees such as wagyu beef knuckle steak, black cod, and suckling pig with burnt bread sauce, complemented by an extensive drinks list of champagnes, martinis, and G&Ts.
Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Rd, 6396-4466. Mon-Thurs 10am-1am, Fri 10am-2am, Sat 3pm-2am.
Bistro Du Vin
If cozy and quaint is your thing, take your date to this charming French bistro, where the servings are hearty and comforting, and the service is warm and welcoming. To get your money’s worth, try the value-for-money weekday set lunch at $28 for two courses or $33 for three.
But if price isn’t an issue for you, tucking into dishes like pork belly, braised beef cheek, and duck leg confit is always more romantic when you’re sipping on a glass of red with a post-meal nighttime stroll waiting for you.
#01-14 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd, 6733-7763. Daily noon-2pm, 6:30pm-10pm.
Colony
From breezy daytime brunches to intimate evening affairs, Colony does it all with flair and sophistication. The elegantly decked out space at Ritz-Carlton whips up one of the best hotel buffets in town, with a satisfying spread that covers fresh seafood, creamy cheeses, juicy slabs of meat, decadent desserts, and local cuisine. Very classy, indeed.
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, 7 Raffles Ave, 6434-5288. Daily 6:30am-10:30am, noon-2:30pm, 6:30pm-10:30pm.
Corner House
Nestled in a two-story, black-and-white colonial bungalow amidst the UNESCO World Heritage site that is the Botanic Gardens, this Michelin-starred name serves up innovative plates of what it calls “gastro-botanica”.
A meal here isn’t exactly friendly on the wallet – set lunches start at $62, while dinners are priced from $158 – but rest assured you’ll be treated to an unforgettable, multi-course experience, no matter if you’re snug in the Claret Corner, relaxing out on The Verandah, or enjoying the privacy of the Whispering Corner.
E J H Corner House, 1 Cluny Rd, 6469-1000. Tues-Sat noon-3pm, 6:30pm-11pm; Sun 11:30am-3pm, 6:30pm-11pm.
Creatures
Tucked away in a little shophouse on Desker Road is Creatures, a café that dishes up comfort food with an Asian twist, such as Hainanese chicken rice rolls, rendang lamb shank, and lobster vermicelli.
It’s all very homey – from the relaxed ambiance to the cheery wait staff to the flavorful nosh – which makes for an easygoing first date for anyone who suffers from a perpetual case of the jitters.
120 Desker Rd, 6291-6996. Tue-Thurs & Sun noon-10pm, Fri-Sat noon-11pm.
Cure Singapore
From the bright and bustling street of Keong Saik to the stylish and dimly-lit space that is Cure, it sure feels like you’ve stepped into a different world here. But it’s definitely one you won’t regret experiencing.
With an ever-evolving line-up of experimental creations crafted from seasonal produce, the fine-dining bistro takes you on a gastronomic journey through its two- to five-course menus, which start from $42 at lunch and go up to $150 for dinner.
21 Keong Saik Rd, 6221-2189. Mon-Sat 6pm-10pm, Wed-Fri noon-2pm.
Flutes
The next time you visit the National Museum, don’t just walk past Flutes without peeking in. It may lean towards the old school type of fancy décor in its look, but the food is worth the cash you fork out and the service is top-notch. Plus, celebrating a special occasion here means you’ll get quiet time to yourselves, and you can splurge on dessert, which is never a letdown.
#01-02 National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd, 6338-8770. Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm, Sat 10:30am-2:30pm, Sun 10:30am-4pm, Mon-Fri 6:30pm-10pm, Sat 6:30pm-10:30pm.
FOC Sentosa
Long walks by the beach may be considered a stereotypical romance trope, but there’s nothing clichéd or conventional about FOC Sentosa. With the breeze in your hair and the sand at your doorstep, the beachside joint is an ideal spot for a fun, playful date, with made-to-share Spanish tapas, paella pans, BBQ bites, and sweet as sin desserts that you can wash down with sips of refreshing cocktails in between lively conversation.
110 Tanjong Beach Walk, 6100-1102. Tues-Fri 11:30am-11pm, Sat-Sun 11:30am-11pm.
La Taperia
Bask in the warmth of dim lights and eclectic décor at this vibrant Spanish joint, where the hospitality complements the food, even though prices tend to veer on the high side.
Tapas are a must-order to share, as well as the seafood paellas – and if your anticipation for the romantic evening has worked up your appetite, you can’t go wrong with meat mains such as braised short rib, grilled lamb rack, and suckling pig confit.
#02-10/11 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd, 6737-8336. Daily noon-3pm, 6:30pm-11pm.
Monti
With a prime spot facing Marina Bay Sands, Monti is a great place to wine and dine (and charm) the person who’s stolen your heart. As the live band plays lush jazz melodies, you can alternate between gazing into each other’s eyes and admiring the glimmering waters of Marina Bay while nibbling on Italian nosh.
There’s also the option of heading up to the alfresco area of Fullerton Pavilion after your meal for a panoramic view of the city skyline.
The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, 6535-0724. Mon-Fri & Sun noon-3pm, 6pm-10:30pm; Sat 3pm-10:30pm.
Mykonos on the Bay
For a taste of fresh Greek produce, sweep your better half off his/her feet and head to the shores of Quayside Isle in Sentosa. The stretch of restaurants – best enjoyed in the evening when cool breezes abound and twinkling lights create a ravishing backdrop – are all fabulous in their own right. But we particularly favor Mykonos on the Bay for its quaint, blue-and-white décor and hearty, unpretentious Greek classics.
After you’re done stuffing your stomach with a Mediterranean feast of moussaka, grilled meats, pita bread, and baklava, walk it off with a slow saunter along the promenade.
#01-10 Quayside Isle, 31 Ocean Way, 6334-3818. Mon-Wed 6pm-10:30pm; Thurs-Fri noon-2:30pm, 6pm-10:30pm; Sat-Sun noon-10:30pm.
National Kitchen by Violet Oon Singapore
Authentic Peranakan cuisine is what you’ll find at Peranakan matriarch Violet Oon’s refined outpost at the National Gallery. Sumptuous plates of dry laksa, dry mee siam, buah keluak ayam, and beef rendang won’t let your taste buds down, but do expect to fork out a tad more for these elevated dishes than you would at your regular haunt.
Regardless, the ornate décor, shimmering chandeliers, and impeccable service will offer a grand backdrop for your date.
#02-01 National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Rd, 9834-9935. Daily noon-2:30pm, 3pm-5pm, 6pm-10:30pm.
Ocean Restaurant by Cat Cora
The irony of dining on seafood right next to a majestic glass tank swimming with, well, live seafood aside, it’s quite the unique experience at what’s been hailed as Southeast Asia’s only underwater aquarium restaurant. As the fishes, rays, and sharks glide past your table, you’ll be grazing on Mediterranean-Californian cuisine from the recipes of Cat Cora, America’s first female iron chef.
Think of it this way: it’s an ideal place for a first date (or a blind date) – especially if you’ve got the cash to splash – because you can always pretend to be wildly fascinated by the marine creatures if your evening goes bust.
Level B1M, S.E.A. Aquarium, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-6688. Daily 11:30am-2:30pm, 6pm-10:30pm.
Odette
First off, a meal at this two Michelin-starred name is steep, especially if you’re intending to romance your date with dinner. But there’s a reason why Odette got the entire city’s food-obsessed buzzing when it first opened in 2015.
The fine dining restaurant serves up a polished experience, with every minute detail taken into consideration – from the soft, neutral tones of the dining room to the outstanding service to the incomparable French cuisine – and if you’re celebrating a special occasion, there’s no chance of you leaving disappointed.
#01-04 National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Rd, 6385-0498. Mon 7pm-9pm, Tues-Sat noon-1:30pm, 7pm-9pm.
Open Farm Community
Home to an edible garden and a regular pop-up farmers’ market, this Dempsey nook is concealed in an undisturbed spot, free from the noise of traffic or crowds. Both indoor and outdoor seats are available — one with a view of the flurry of activity in the kitchen, while the other seats you amidst the peaceful serenity of nature.
Locally sourced and seasonal creations made from freshly harvested ingredients are the focus here, with a menu that spotlights dishes inspired by flavors familiar to Singaporeans. If you’re the indecisive type, try the chef’s selection and throw in pairings of natural wines to go all out.
130E Minden Rd, 6471-0306. Mon-Thurs noon-4pm, 6pm-11pm; Fri noon-4pm, 6pm-midnight; Sat 11am-5pm, 6pm-midnight; Sun 11am-5pm, 6pm-11pm.
Pete’s Place
Comfortably ensconced in the basement of Grand Hyatt Singapore, Pete’s Place is the type of down-to-earth restaurant that makes you feel right at home – even though it’s on Orchard Road – with its rustic surroundings of brick walls, wood-fired ovens, and checkered tablecloths.
Italian classics dominate the menu, which features robust offerings of pastas like spaghetti, lasagna, and gnocchi alongside pizzas topped with everything from mozzarella and parma ham to black tiger prawns and venus clams. To unwind in style, pop open a bottle of wine to slowly sip on.
Basement level, Grand Wing, Grand Hyatt Singapore, 10 Scotts Rd, 6738-1234. Daily noon-2:30pm, 6pm-10:30pm; Sunday brunch 11:30am-2:30pm.
Pollen
Capturing the essence of our garden city, Pollen is, quite literally, a cool epicurean experience at Gardens by the Bay’s sub 20-degree Flower Dome. The journey begins when you arrive in style on a complimentary buggy service, and ends with you wandering around hand-in-hand amongst the exotic blossoms after your meal.
As for the main event, expect to be wowed by modern European plates with a Mediterranean twist, while you enjoy the splendor of Marina Bay from your comfy perch. Prices may be on the high end, but the ambience is nowhere near touristy – even though the dome is usually brimming with out-of-towners.
Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, #01-09, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, 6604-9988. Wed-Mon noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm.
PS.Café One Fullerton
PS.Cafe may be known as a breezy hangout best for snacking on truffle fries, but its One Fullerton branch is quite the stunner. With scenic vistas that curve from the waters of Marina Bay to The Fullerton Hotel, the chic eatery offers a familiar sight of lush blooms sprucing up the gorgeous space. Chill vibes abound, making it the perfect spot for that casual first date.
Plus, we’ve all thumbed through a PS.Cafe menu at some point in our lives, so you can easily command each other’s full attention without working yourself into a tizzy about your order (or the bill).
#02-03B/04 One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Rd, 8812-3198. Mon-Wed 11:30am-11pm, Thurs 11:30am-midnight, Fri 11:30am-1am, Sat 9:30am-1am, Sun 9:30am-11pm.
Spuds & Aprons
When you’re sitting pretty on this Mount Faber joint – with your feet planted firmly on solid ground – it’s easy to admire the otherwise-cheesy cable cars cheerfully making their way to Sentosa. For a light-hearted time, opt for the outdoor garden area instead of the air-conditioned dining room.
The alfresco ambience is relaxed enough for you to let loose and be yourself while munching on pretty standard but value-for-money bistro fare like barbecued baby back ribs, crispy pork belly, and pan-roasted salmon. Plus, if you both had a great time, you can always amble over to the Bell of Happiness and give it a resounding gong for “everlasting happiness”.
L2 Faber Peak Singapore, 109 Mount Faber Rd. Daily 11am-11pm.
Super Loco Customs House
Yes, we hear your groans of “not another Marina Bay restaurant with a waterfront view!” But hear us out. Super Loco (and its sister restaurant Lucha Loco) whips up some of the best Mexican food in town – and when you pair upscale tacos, quesadillas, and tostadas with alfresco seating, stylish decor, and a touch of sass, you’re bound to have a fabulous time. Even if you are surrounded by the after-work CBD drinks crowd.
P.S. Super Loco’s frozen margaritas are the best way to get buzzed – but not sloshed, please. No one wants to be bogged down by a sloppy date.
#01-04 Customs House, 70 Collyer Quay, 6532-2090. Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 5pm-midnight; Fri noon-midnight, Sat 5pm-midnight.
The Black Swan
Just because the CBD reminds you of monotonous work and dreaded business meetings doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a night out there. Set in a restored 1930s landmark, The Black Swan is all kinds of glitz and glamor, with Art Deco designs and sleek trimmings paying tribute to the gilded Jazz Age.
To indulge in the finer things in life, swing by to luxuriate in the bistro’s weekly alfresco live music sessions with your plus one and get acquainted with the pleasures of a great steak.
19 Cecil St, 6438-3757. Mon 11:30am-11pm, Tues-Thurs 11:30am-midnight, Fri 11:30am-1am, Sat 5pm-midnight.
The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens
Here’s another recommendation surrounded by Mother Nature’s loveliest – we are known as a garden city, after all. Colorful flowers and rich foliage skirt around The Halia (Malay for ginger), which is named after the sprawling Ginger Garden it’s set in. Just don’t lose your way amongst the plants, or your date will think he/she got stood up.
With its recent Halal certification, the menu has undergone an overhaul, keeping crowd favorites alongside new modern European-Asian creations. While that means you won’t be able to order a cocktail at The Halia, the bar’s been replaced by a pretty neat concept called the Herbarium, which concocts beverages from herbs found in the Botanic Gardens.
1 Cluny Rd, Ginger Garden, 8444-1148. Mon-Thurs 9am-9:30pm, Fri 9am-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-9:30pm.
The Ottomani
The Ottomani sets the tone for an intimate affair, with lavish velvet couches, intricately-patterned carpets, and oil lanterns flickering in the dimly-lit space. Touted as a New Middle Eastern supper club, the place is warm and inviting, with handwritten notes welcoming you to the table.
Just as decadent are the dishes on the ever-changing seasonal menu, which currently boasts a ridiculously addictive smoked date butter and sublime sweet potato dumplings alongside pit-roasted meats such as pork and lamb shoulder.
48 Peck Seah St, 9231-9316. Mon-Sat 6:30pm-midnight.
The Summerhouse
For an epicurean escape, make a trip to the hidden oasis that is Seletar Aerospace Park for an idyllic retreat for two. With farm-to-table cuisine that’s fresh and nature-inspired, The Summerhouse and its historic bungalow surroundings make for quite the leisurely meal. But if you’d like to treat your significant other to something special, book the enchanting geodesic domes nestled in the edible garden for a truly one-of-a-kind evening.
3 Park Ln, 6262-1063. Sat-Sun noon-3pm, Wed-Sun 6pm-10pm.
The White Rabbit
An exquisite restored 1930s chapel in the peaceful greens of Dempsey is what The White Rabbit calls home. In true fairytale style, the restaurant is inspired by Alice in Wonderland, and has welcomed many a magical wedding in its premises. Serving up delightful dishes such as wagyu carpaccio, sautéed foie gras, and truffle pasta, it won’t be long before you’re both luxuriating in the intoxicating swirls of romance that the space exudes.
39C Harding Rd, 6473-9965. Tues-Thurs & Sun 6pm-11:30pm, Fri-Sat 6pm-12:30am.
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