From cult burger joints and Tokyo imports to chef-driven tasting menus, Singapore’s dining scene has been anything but quiet this year. It has never just been a food city, it’s one of the world’s most competitive dining playgrounds.
In a country where hawker legends sit alongside Michelin stars, global restaurant groups, celebrity chefs and homegrown talents are all competing for the same discerning diners, opening a restaurant is only half the battle. Staying relevant is the real challenge. That relentless competition is also what makes a little red dot one of Asia’s most exciting places to eat. Every new opening adds another layer to the city’s melting pot of cultures, and this year’s crop of restaurant openings reflects exactly that.
While the city is no stranger to headline-grabbing openings, not every new restaurant deserves a spot on your reservations list. Some bring international names to Singapore for the very first time, while others showcase local chefs pushing the boundaries of what Singaporean dining can be. We have thoughtfully sifted through the buzz to round up the tables that are genuinely worth checking out—whether you are after a quick lunch fix or a special-occasion splurge.
1. Chick-fil-A: America’s most anticipated fast-food arrival
The queues say it all. After years of speculation, Chick-fil-A has finally landed in Singapore, bringing its famous Original Chicken Sandwich, waffle fries and hand-spun milkshakes with it. Prices start from just S$4.20, making it one of the year’s most affordable, and talked-about, new openings.
Expect to spend: Under S$15
2. Sio Pasta: Tokyo’s pasta phenomenon
Japanese-Italian fusion continues to have a moment, and Sio Pasta is leading the charge. The Tokyo favourite has chosen Singapore for its first overseas outpost, serving silky pastas alongside black garlic fried chicken, pizzas and mentaiko-topped sides that make it far more than your average pasta shop.
Expect to spend: S$15–25
3. Smash Street: For burger lovers
Tiny in size but big on flavour, Smash Street has quickly become one of Singapore’s hottest burger addresses. The intimate 14-seat concept focuses on perfectly caramelised smashed beef patties with no unnecessary frills—just seriously good burgers.
Expect to spend: S$14–20
4. Torikizoku: Japanese after-work vibes
The beloved Osaka yakitori chain has finally arrived in Singapore, bringing its famously affordable skewers and izakaya-style atmosphere. Whether you’re meeting friends after work or craving grilled chicken and beer, it’s one of the most accessible new Japanese openings this year.
Expect to spend: S$20–40
5. Bouillon Gavroche: Parisian comfort food
Inspired by the traditional bouillons of Paris, this newcomer serves hearty French classics without the intimidating price tag. Think steak frites, onion soup and generous portions in a lively, approachable dining room.
Expect to spend: S$30–50
6. Barrel: Story of Hibiki, for Whisky Enthusiasts
Part Japanese whisky bar, part design destination, Barrel: Story of Hibiki transforms an old bank vault into one of Singapore’s most atmospheric drinking spots. Even if you’re not a whisky collector, the interiors alone make it worth a visit.
Expect to spend: S$40–80
7. Asin: Contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine
Singaporean Chef Ace Tan’s latest concept, in conjunction with Desmond Heng’s popular Suguru, a homegrown dining concept that saw demand pick up during the pandemic, has become one of the year’s breakout dining destinations. Drawing inspiration from regional ingredients and traditional food therapy, Asin delivers an inventive tasting experience that feels unmistakably Singaporean while looking confidently to the future.
Expect to spend: S$150–200
8. 1887 by André: A grand culinary comeback by a Three-Michelin Star Chef
Few restaurant openings have generated as much anticipation as André Chiang’s return to Singapore. Housed within the historic Raffles Singapore, 1887 by André reimagines heritage dining with nearly 60 dishes inspired by the hotel’s storied past, all served in interiors designed by Bill Bensley.
Expect to spend: S$180+
9. Sushi Kimura Plus: An intimate omakase
If securing an omakase reservation is your love language, Sushi Kimura Plus deserves a place on your radar. The intimate counter offers an elevated extension of Chef Tomoo Kimura’s acclaimed approach to Edomae sushi, making it one of the city’s most exciting new Japanese experiences.
Expect to spend: S$180+
10. Milli Sky Dining, Bar & Lounge: Dinner with a view
Perched atop the National Gallery Singapore, Milli – Sky Dining, Bar & Lounge pairs sweeping skyline views with contemporary Singapore-inspired cuisine and cocktails. It’s equally suited for sunset drinks or a celebratory dinner, offering one of the city’s freshest rooftop experiences.
Expect to spend: S$100+
Why these restaurants matter
This year’s restaurant openings reveal a clear shift in Singapore’s dining landscape. Global cult brands like Chick-fil-A are finally entering the market, while Japanese imports continue to expand beyond sushi into pasta, yakitori and whisky concepts. At the same time, local chefs are doubling down on distinctly Singaporean and Southeast Asian storytelling, proving that some of the city’s most exciting meals are also its most original.
Whether you’re spending S$5 or S$200, there’s never been a better time to book a table in Singapore.
Image Credit: National Gallery Singapore
