HighHouse @ One Raffles Place - Affordable New Set Lunch Menu Starting from $48++ Per Person, Available Till 15 June

Perched on Level 62 of One Raffles Place, HighHouse offers a set lunch menu starting from $48++ per person for two courses. The new menu, crafted in collaboration with Chef Daniele Sperindio of Art di Daniele Sperindio, is available for a limited time until 15 June. With an impressive skyline view and a well-curated selection of hot and cold appetisers, mains, and desserts, HighHouse is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a business meeting. We tried the three-course set ($58++ per person) to experience a little bit of everything – and it certainly delivered.

Sticky Mango Highball 3.5/5

We started our lunch with a Sticky Mango Highball ($20) — we couldn't resist, especially with the tempting cocktail menu and that spectacular view. Made with Chalong Bay Thai Agricole, Mango Sticky Rice Cordial, and Bright Citrus, the alcohol level was generous. However, we found it lacking the distinct sticky mango element that the name promised.

Summer in Seoul 3.8/5

For appetisers, we chose one cold and one hot dish. The first is the cold appetiser: Summer in Seoul, which features chilled somen noodles, aged watermelon, and geranium leaf in a tomato broth. It was a refreshing start to the meal, and the geranium leaf reminded us of a pesto-like flavour, giving it a surprisingly Italian twist. The aged watermelon also added an interesting, almost meaty texture to the dish.

Saikyo Miso Foie Gras 4.5/5

Our hot appetiser was the Saikyo Miso Foie Gras, which was the highlight of the meal. The sweet corn velouté was creamy without being cloying, while the crispy Sichuan corn and pork pancetta added delightful texture and flavour. The foie gras itself, marinated in miso, was elevated beautifully, enhancing its rich flavour without overpowering the dish. We couldn't get enough of this one.

12-Hour Slow Cooked Sakura Pork Belly 3.8/5

Moving on to mains, we had the 12-Hour Slow Cooked Sakura Pork Belly. It came with a strong char flavour and was paired with a coffee balsamic sauce that leaned quite sweet. It reminded us of Hong Kong-style char siew, though we wished the pork belly could have been a touch more tender and the sauce slightly less sweet. On the side, there are Brussels sprouts, brown butter carrot sauce (very delicious) and a crispy piece of coconut sticky rice, which we found the rice a little too hard for our liking.

Spanish Octopus Reginette Pasta 3.8/5

The other main was the Spanish Octopus Reginette Pasta, featuring fork-tender chunks of octopus tossed in a lobster bisque reduction. The addition of kimchi added a nice crunch from the cabbage, but overall, the dish leaned on the salty side, possibly due to the furikake topping. A little less salt would have made this dish perfect.

Matcha Gateau 4/5

Coconut & Cashew Tart 4.2/5

For dessert, we went with the recommended Matcha Gateau and Coconut & Cashew Tart. The Matcha Gateau was delightful: a soft Sencha Jaconde Sponge layered with a high-quality Matcha Ganache. The pairing with Grapefruit Compote added a refreshing citrus kick that balanced the richness nicely.

However, the Coconut & Cashew Tart truly stole the show. Its buttery tart shell was filled with Almond Cream, topped with a Sea Salt Cashew Mousseline, and paired with roasty Barley Tea Ice Cream. This was easily our top pick for dessert.

Whether you're looking to impress clients or simply enjoy a relaxed meal with breathtaking views, HighHouse ticks all the boxes. This limited-time lunch menu, thoughtfully crafted with Chef Daniele Sperindio, is available until 15 June — making it the perfect reason to plan a visit soon. With its beautiful setting and well-executed dishes, HighHouse promises an elevated and memorable dining experience. Be sure to reserve early if you want one of the coveted window seats.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


HighHouse
1 Raffles Place
L61-62
Singapore 048616
Tel: +65 9677 8074
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu: 1130 am–1 am
Wed: 1130 am–2 am
Fri-Sat: 5 pm–2 am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

The Library @ Boat Quay - New Bespoke Bar Serving Omakase Cocktails

Tucked away on the second floor of a shophouse along the river in Boat Quay, The Library is a hidden gem that just opened in April, offering a bespoke bar experience that stands out from the crowd. With an omakase-style cocktail concept led by the charismatic mixologist Fire, this intimate bar invites guests to sit back and let their taste buds be surprised. Perfect for an unhurried afternoon escape or a sophisticated evening out, The Library is redefining cocktail culture with creativity, hospitality and a personal touch.

Omakase Special (for 2) 4/5

We started our experience with the Omakase Special for 2 ($38), which was served elegantly in a traditional Chinese teapot with matching cups. After a quick chat about our preferred flavour profile, Fire crafted a Gin-based cocktail layered with fresh watermelon, mint, almond and a splash of Malibu. Refreshing and well-balanced, it was the kind of drink you could sip all day. To top it off, it came with a side of delightful homemade cookies.

Blue Sky 4/5

Next, we tried the Blue Sky ($28), a signature cocktail that immediately transported us to a tropical beach. A blend of Blue Curacao, Yuzu Gin, Bombay Gin, lemon juice and coconut water, Fire 'upgraded' the drink with a swirl of coconut cream, creating a cloud-like effect floating in the blue. Inspired by Thailand's skies, Fire recommended this cocktail to pair with their Thai-Style Top Shell, and the match was spot on.

Omakase Cocktail 4/5

As we were eager for another surprise, we left our next drink in Fire's hands once more. He returned with a fruity Omakase Cocktail ($33) made with rum, pineapple juice, passionfruit, and champagne. Light, bubbly, and tropical, this cocktail paired wonderfully with our ordered fresh oysters — a refreshing combo that made for an indulgent treat.

Japan Hyogo Oysters 4.2/5

Speaking of oysters, the Japan Hyogo Oysters ($28 for 6 pcs) were a standout. They were sweet, plump, and generously sized, served with lemon wedges and Tabasco for those who like a tangy kick. Simple and satisfying, they were the kind of dish that speaks for itself.

Thai-Style Top Shell 4/5

We highly recommend the Thai-Style Top Shell ($22) for something with a spicy punch. Tossed in a fiery garlic sauce and served with crunchy cucumber slices, it delivered both heat and flavour in every bite. Generously portioned, this addictive dish is ideal for sharing over cocktails.

Chicken Gyoza 3.5/5

If you're after something more filling, go for the Chicken Gyoza ($18 for 10 pcs). These golden dumplings had crispy skins and juicy fillings, served with a tangy soy-vinegar dip on the side. They did the job nicely and helped round out our drinking session.

The Library also offers two private rooms — one overlooking the river through large windows and the other tucked deeper inside for a more secluded setting. These spaces are ideal for small gatherings, private parties or business meetups.

The overall vibe here is relaxed and cosy, even on weekday afternoons. The bar is open Monday through Friday, with Wednesdays reserved exclusively for members. For those interested, the members' package starts from $2,000 and includes six bottles of Ballantine's, one bottle of red or white wine, and unlimited oysters from 6 to 9 PM. Members also enjoy access to live music on members-only nights.

Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys discovering cool hidden spots, The Library offers a delightful escape with bespoke drinks, tasty bites and a welcoming ambience. With Fire at the helm, every visit feels like a personal experience — and we're already looking forward to our next surprise.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Library
41A Boat Quay
Singapore 049830
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri: 2pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: For private events only
(Closed on Wed, for members only)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn left and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Atic @ Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore - The Rooftop Restaurant Reopens with a New Contemporary Southeast Asian Cuisine

The rooftop restaurant at Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore has recently reopened as Atic, offering a menu of contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine. Helmed by Chef Newein Dolph Toolseram, whose multicultural roots span Burmese, Chinese, Dutch, Thai, and Peranakan-Hokkien heritage, Atic presents a vibrant reflection of the region's rich culinary traditions — reimagined with modernity and Chef Newein's distinctive personal touch.

Peperoncino Egg Noodles with seared Barramundi 3.8/5

As a start, Atic opens exclusively for weekday lunch, offering a well-priced menu featuring sharing sides and customisable lunch sets. The set allows diners to mix and match a base with their preferred protein, creating a satisfying and personalised experience. There are four base options to choose from. The Peperoncino Egg Noodles were pleasing with a springy texture, and the flavour profile was reminiscent of local soy sauce wanton noodles — savoury and comforting.

Roti John with Ribeye 3/5

Nasi Kuning with Signature Pork Chop Bakar 4/5

The Roti John, which uses Hainanese buns layered with a spiced omelette, had a lovely, sweet, bready aroma. However, the buns leaned too soft and doughy for my liking, lacking the airy, light texture one might expect. On the other hand, the Turmeric Basmati Rice, or Nasi Kuning, stood out with its fluffiness and aromatic spices, making it my preferred base for its well-balanced and comforting qualities. For something lighter, there's also the option of a mesclun salad.

Brick Chicken 4.5/5

The Brick Chicken was a clear winner among the proteins — delightfully crispy skin enveloping tender, succulent meat. The Signature Pork Chop Bakar fared equally well. Inspired by Chef Newein's hometown, the pork is marinated in spices and grilled using traditional Malay-style techniques, resulting in flavours that evoke the smoky taste of satay. The Ribeye was simply seasoned and grilled to the right doneness, allowing its natural beefy flavour to take centre stage.

Fried Oyster Mushrooms 3.8/5

While I found the Fried Oyster Mushrooms an interesting protein option, their deep-fried nature and addictive crunch made them feel more like a side dish than a main dish.

Rojak 4.5/5

On the side menu, the Rojak ($13.90) was a refreshing and vibrant take on the traditional dish. Pomelo, cubed cucumber, pineapple, and turnip were tossed in a citrusy shrimp paste, paired with mesclun leaves and mixed herbs, and finished with croutons in place of the usual you tiao for the textural crunch.

Chicken Wings 4/5

Spiced Calamari 2/5

The Chicken Wings ($13.90) were their rendition of shrimp paste chicken, featuring juicy and tender meat beneath a thin, crisp, umami-packed crust, complemented by their housemade sambal. The Spiced Calamari ($13.90) came with a delicious roasted masala crust, but the calamari rings were somewhat bland, falling short in flavour.

Grilled Hispi Cabbage 4/5

The Grilled Hispi Cabbage ($11.90) was deeply savoury, enriched by a bonito emulsion and shio kombu, though I found myself wishing for a hint of citrus to lift and balance the umami.

Lunch set menu starts from $17.90+, available Monday to Friday, 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Atic
Citadines Connect City Centre Singapore
182 Clemenceau Ave
Singapore 239923
Tel: +65 8087 1182
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm
(Closed on Sat-Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Penang Road. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to Penang Lane. Turn left onto the Penang Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kaya @ The Standard Singapore - A Bold New Take of Japanese Izakaya

Kaya at The Standard Singapore is a relatively new addition, opening in December 2024. The menu offers sharing plates inspired by familiar Japanese flavours with a fresh, inventive twist — mirrored by the equally creative cocktails from Kaya Bar.

Daikon Slaw 5/5

To begin with, both starters — the Daikon Slaw ($14) and It Is What It Is ($26) — were excellent. The Daikon Slaw delivered the perfect crunch, thanks to the way the white daikon was sliced into bean sprout-like strips and then tossed with charred corn and cucumber slices. A generous heap of crispy onions and ginger added a savoury warmth that balanced the freshness of the dish. Lightly coated in dressing, every bite celebrated the simplicity and quality of the ingredients.

It Is What It Is 5/5

It Is What It Is was a beautifully plated presentation of seasonal sashimi, dressed in a tangy wasabi vinaigrette and topped with dashi jelly and olive dust. The vinaigrette was vibrant and addictive, delivering a mustardy sharpness that enhanced the delicate flavours of the fish. A sprinkle of mustard cress echoed the wasabi notes, while the olive dust — presumably made from dehydrated olives — added a salty umami depth reminiscent of shoyu.

Nikujaga 5/5

For mains, the Nikujaga ($39) impressed me with its twice-cooked short rib, which had a buttery mouthfeel and a robust beefy flavour. An umami-sweet nikutare, shio kombu, and katsuobushi elevated this richness. Pickled shimeji mushrooms added just the right acidity to cut through the fattiness of the meat.

Kani Meshi Nabe 3.8/5

The Kani Meshi Nabe ($65) offered an interesting take on Japanese claypot rice, combining elements of Kani Meshi and Kani Nabe. Served tableside with a drizzle of uni crème mixed into slightly scorched rice, the dish brought together sweet, oceany, and briny notes from the snow crab, ikura, and uni. While the flavours were spot on, I would have preferred the rice to be firmer and less wet, better to emulate the texture of traditional claypot rice.

Sweet Potato Mont Blanc 4/5

Dessert was a tough choice, with every option looking equally tempting. I settled on the Sweet Potato Mont Blanc ($16), which featured a trio of Japanese sweet potatoes: velvety purple potato purée, yellow sweet potato crisps, and savoury-sweet orange sweet potato dust, served together with nutty pistachio sponge and candied chestnuts. I loved the interplay of textures and the depth of flavour, though I felt the generous amount of sweet potato purée could have been better balanced with a bit more of the pistachio sponge.

Niji Negroni

From Kaya Bar, the meal was completed with the Niji Negroni — a vibrant concoction of Sakura tea–infused Roku Gin, Discarded Cascara Sweet Vermouth, yuzu umeshu, barrel-aged Campari, and yuzu bitters, served in a glass rimmed with zero-waste lemongrass powder.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kaya
The Standard, Singapore
12 Orange Grove Rd
#02-00
Singapore 258353
Tel: 6040 1888
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 630am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]

Summer Hill @ Claymore Connect - A French Bistro Restaurant’s Unlimited Weekend Brunch Trolley

Summer Hill is a charming French bistro tucked away on the second floor of Claymore Connect, just a short stroll from Orchard MRT. While their regular menu features French staples like Wagyu Beef Bourguignon, Mussels Normandy, and French Fried Chicken, weekends bring a creative twist with their Brunch Trolley - a roaming service inspired by the "dim sum" cart, with menus that rotate every few months according to a new theme.

We dropped by on a rainy day and were greeted with a warmly lit, cosy space. The thoughtful decor and mix-and-match tableware added to the inviting atmosphere.

Brunch Trolley - Savouring Stories 3.8/5

From now until the end of May, the Brunch Trolley is themed 'Savouring Stories', with each dish inspired by iconic women writers. Priced at $79++ per person, the brunch includes unlimited servings of iced tea and all featured dishes during the dining session. Diners can opt for free-flow prosecco and wines with a top-up of $55++. The trolley service is available on specific sessions: Fridays at 12pm and Weekends at 11am and 1.30pm. During these sessions, the regular a la carte menu is paused.

Bread & Sides

Our experience started with a Bread Basket and three small side dishes: chicken liver pâté, gruyère eggs with onions, and a tomato-based ratatouille. Our server recommended that a touch of mustard brighten the overall flavours.

White Bean, Potato & Leek Soup with Olives

The White Bean, Potato & Leek Soup was next. It was warm and subtly briny due to the addition of chopped olives and olive oil drizzle.

White Clams

Then came the White Clams, served in a vibrant, spiced sauce with chilli and kaffir lime. It was a pity that the clams were relatively tiny.

Grilled Skate Wing

The Grilled Skate Wing was one of our preferred dishes. It was dressed in a slather of fragrant brown butter and lemon. We ordered seconds, and it fared better when served warm.

Charcoal-grilled Bangalow Pork Collar

We also enjoyed the tender Charcoal-grilled Bangalow Pork Collar, served with a creamy mustard-based sauce and crunchy hazelnuts. It paired nicely with the bread and the next dish, Aligot.

Aligot

Both my dining companion and I love mashed potatoes, so we were excited to dig into the Aligot, a stretchy and thick dish enriched with cheese and butter.

Red Wine Chicken, Spinach & Garlic Gratin

The savoury portions included Red Wine Chicken, Spinach, and Garlic Gratin. Though unassuming, the latter, mixed with onions, breadcrumbs, and butter, had us ordering seconds. Before dessert, the staff checked in to see if we wanted refills. All dishes are available for unlimited servings.

Snow Cone Bar

For dessert, we started at the Snow Cone Bar, where diners could customise their own icy treat with various syrups, such as peach, rose, watermelon, and toppings.

Valrhona Chocolate Almond Cake

Tarte Aux Pommes

We finished with two warm desserts: a Valrhona Chocolate Almond Cake with whipped cream and a Tarte Aux Pommes, an apple-frangipane tart with a crisp crust and custard-like centre. While the dishes were a mix of hits and misses, the attentive service and welcoming space made the experience better. It's a great way to sample the restaurant's menu in small portions, and it's best enjoyed with a group for sharing.

Make sure to make your reservations ahead of time.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Summer Hill
Claymore Connect
442 Orchard Road
#02-17
Singapore 238879
Tel:+65 8690 5907
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 1130am, 3pm, 6pm - 1030 pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Orchard Road towards the junction of Orchard Road and Claymore Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]