Where to Eat in Singapore (For the Luxe Seeker)

1. Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House - My #1 Favourite in Singapore

If I could choose my last meal, it would be at Luke’s. No hesitation.

This place is my top pick - elegant without being pretentious, and uncompromising on quality. The Shellfish Plateau (aka the seafood platter) and Luke’s Bone-In Tenderloin Au Poivre are must-orders.

Now, here’s why I trust their seafood: I have a histamine allergy. When shrimp isn’t stored properly, bacteria break down proteins into histamine, and I’ll end up with a swollen throat and itchy skin. Not fun. That means I can only eat the freshest shrimp possible - and Luke’s passes my body’s test every single time.

The prawns and lobsters here are so succulent, they’re almost sweet - a taste I’ve rarely encountered anywhere else, not even in other coastal cities.

Insider Tip: Luke’s has a slightly fancy vibe. You’ll see people dressing up for date nights and business dinners. Dress smart - no slippers or tank tops here.

Where to Go for Drinks Before or After: Luke’s is conveniently nestled between Club Street and Amoy Street - two busy nightlife strips. You’re spoiled for choice here, but my top picks are:

• Le Bon Funk - Natural wine bar with a sexy, low-lit vibe

• Employees Only - New York-style speakeasy with killer cocktails and late-night buzz

• Bitters & Love - Cozy and creative, with unique cocktails and a warm crowd

2. Bakalaki - Greek Sunshine on a Plate

My love for Greek food runs deep. After visiting Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos, I constantly chase that authentic Mediterranean flavour - and Bakalaki comes closest in Singapore.

My must-order dish every time? The Paidakia (lamb chops). Charred just right on the outside, and incredibly juicy inside. Add a side of Greek wine - I’ve tried many at random from their wine list and have never been disappointed. They’re well-priced too, which is refreshing in a city where wine is often criminally overpriced.

The restaurant is surrounded by glass panels, so if you’re like me - someone who loves sunshine but not sweaty armpits - this place lets you bask in natural light while enjoying cool, air-conditioned comfort.

Vibe: Warm, sunlit, lively — perfect for a long lunch or early dinner with friends

Where to Go for Drinks Before or After: Bakalaki sits at Martin Road, near Robertson Quay, a riverside area perfect for post-dinner strolls and tipples. I recommend:

• Publico Ristorante - Stylish Italian spot with great cocktails and chill vibes

• Super Loco - Fun, casual and energetic with margaritas and good people-watching

3. Piedra Negra - Frozen Margaritas & Street Art Vibes

This one’s close to my heart.

Located along the colourful and eclectic Haji Lane, Piedra Negra is an unpretentious Mexican gem with consistently good food and the kind of atmosphere that reminds me why I love this city.

I always get:

• Guacamole with tortilla chips

• Mango Madness ceviche or traditional ceviche

• Beef Alambre - cubes of juicy beef sautéed to perfection, served with soft tortillas

Their frozen margaritas are churned in a machine so you get that icy-smooth texture with every sip - a lifesaver on humid afternoons.

Best time to go: Late afternoon — around 4:30–5:30 PM. You’ll escape the heat by sipping your frozen margaritas, and by the time you’re done with dinner, you'll see the street outside is transformed: glowing murals, music floating through the air, neon lights flickering to life.

Where to Go for Drinks Before or After: Right beside Haji Lane, you’re already in the heart of Kampong Glam’s vibrant nightlife.

• Blu Jaz Cafe - Laidback, with live music and a rotating events calendar (check their website before you go)

• Mr Stork @ Andaz - Rooftop bar with panoramic views and teepee-style seating - perfect for sundown drinks or nightcaps

4. Nonna Lina - Authentic Tuscan Comfort in the City

If you’re craving Italian comfort food done right, Trattoria Nonna Lina is a hidden gem that delivers. Named after the owner’s grandmother, this cosy Tuscan restaurant is a true homage to family and tradition - with rustic décor, warm service, and food that tastes like it’s been lovingly cooked for Sunday lunch with the famiglia.

Go with any of their fresh pasta dishes (you really can’t go wrong), but the standout for me is the Cacciucco - a rich, Tuscan seafood stew that’s deeply flavourful and comforting. And don’t leave without trying the tiramisu — light, creamy, and easily one of the best in town.

The vibe here is unpretentious and homely - perfect for a laid-back yet elevated dining experience. And once you're done, step out and explore the area: Bukit Pasoh and Keong Saik, just behind the restaurant, are lined with some of Singapore’s best bars. I highly recommend Gibson Bar for their Lobster Bloody Mary — a luxe and absolutely delicious twist on a classic that never disappoints.

These are my top favourites — for now. Each place is a slice of my story, whether it’s the shrimp that didn’t kill me (thank you Luke’s), or the lamb chops that took me back to Greece.

Let me know if you try any of these — and don’t forget to dress cute for Luke’s!