Tanjong Pagar, a vibrant neighborhood in Singapore’s Central Business District, offers a culinary melting pot brimming with tantalizing flavors. From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble hawker stalls, Tanjong Pagar has something to satisfy every palate. Here’s a guide to 15 must-try culinary gems in this bustling district:
1. Burnt Ends: Smokehouse Paradise
Indulge in exquisite smoked meats and exquisite cocktails at Burnt Ends, a cozy restaurant with an industrial-chic vibe. Their signature “Burnt Ends” are succulent beef brisket morsels, slow-cooked to perfection and infused with a symphony of spices. Pair them with the refreshing “Smoky” cocktail for an unforgettable dining experience.
2. Kafe Utu: Authentic Indonesian Delights
Transport your taste buds to the aromatic islands of Indonesia at Kafe Utu. This unassuming establishment serves up authentic Indonesian cuisine with a modern twist. Try the “Ayam Bakar Jimbaran,” a grilled chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, or the “Soto Betawi,” a traditional beef soup brimming with rich flavors.
3. Tanjong Pagar Market: A Culinary Adventure
Step into the bustling Tanjong Pagar Market, a labyrinthine hawker center teeming with culinary treasures. From aromatic Malay dishes to hearty Hokkien noodles, there’s a plethora of options to choose from. Don’t miss the “Roti Prata” at Prateek Roti Prata House, a crispy Indian flatbread served with various curries and toppings.
4. Forlino: Italian Indulgence in a Cozy Setting
Escape into the rustic charm of Forlino, a charming restaurant showcasing the vibrant flavors of Italy. Their signature “Osso Buco” is a slow-braised veal shank accompanied by a rich saffron risotto. For a lighter option, try their “Tagliatelle al Ragu,” a classic pasta dish featuring a hearty meat sauce.
5. Esquina: Modern Spanish Cuisine with a Twist
Discover innovative Spanish dishes with a contemporary twist at Esquina, a Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by renowned chef Jason Atherton. Their “Roast Iberico Pork Shoulder” is a succulent masterpiece, paired with a tangy quince puree. For a creative dessert, indulge in their “Torrija Francesa,” a caramelized French toast with a delectable vanilla ice cream.
6. Miznon: Israeli Street Food on the Go
Savor authentic Israeli street food at Miznon, a lively restaurant offering pita sandwiches brimming with Middle Eastern flavors. Their “Whole Roasted Cauliflower” is a veggie-lovers’ delight, roasted to perfection and topped with a zesty tahini sauce. For a classic experience, try their “Pita Falafel,” a crispy falafel sandwich served with hummus and fresh vegetables.
7. Yakun Kaya Toast: Legendary Breakfast Delights
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yakun Kaya Toast, a renowned institution known for its classic Singaporean breakfast fare. Their signature “Kaya Toast” is a fluffy toasted bread slathered with fragrant coconut jam and butter. Pair it with a creamy “Kopi” (local coffee) for an authentic local experience.
8. Ding Tai Fung: Michelin-Starred Dumpling Delicacy
Step into the culinary haven of Ding Tai Fung, a renowned restaurant known for its exquisite dumplings. Their signature “Xiao Long Bao” are plump, juicy pork dumplings that burst with flavorful broth upon each bite. For a vegetarian option, try their “Truffle Edamame Dumpling,” a savory dumpling infused with the earthy aroma of black truffles.
9. MeatSmith: A Carnivore’s Paradise
Meat enthusiasts rejoice at MeatSmith, a modern barbecue restaurant specializing in succulent meats slow-cooked to perfection. Their “Texas Brisket” is a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece, smoked for hours over hickory wood. For a lighter option, try their “BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders,” tender pulled pork piled on soft Hawaiian rolls.
10. Maggie Joan’s: American Comfort Food with a Twist
Indulge in comforting American cuisine with a modern twist at Maggie Joan’s, a charming restaurant known for its hearty dishes. Their “Fried Chicken and Honey” is a crispy, juicy masterpiece served with a tangy honey glaze. For a sweet treat, try their “Brown Butter Blondie,” a decadent chocolate dessert with a gooey, chewy texture.
11. Grain Traders: Healthy Bowls for Health-Conscious Foodies
Cater to your wellness cravings at Grain Traders, a casual restaurant offering wholesome bowls brimming with fresh, nutritious ingredients. Their “Falafel Bowl” is a vibrant medley of chickpea falafel, roasted vegetables, and quinoa, drizzled with a zesty lemon-tahini dressing. For a vegan delight, try their “Buddha Bowl,” packed with tofu, edamame, and brown rice.
12. Sushi Omakase Ken: Intimate Omakase Experience
Experience the art of omakase at Sushi Omakase Ken, an intimate restaurant offering an exquisite tasting menu crafted by renowned chef Kenjiro Zinnai. Each course showcases the finest seasonal ingredients, from delicate sashimi to melt-in-your-mouth sushi. For an unforgettable gastronomic journey, indulge in their 20-course omakase experience.
13. BoCHINche: Argentinean Grill with a Festive Flair
Embrace the lively spirit of Argentina at BoCHINche, a vibrant grill serving up sizzling meats and flavorful dishes. Their “Parrillada” is a feast fit for carnivores, featuring a selection of grilled meats, including succulent steaks, chorizo, and sweetbreads. Pair it with a glass of Malbec for an authentic Argentinean experience.
14. The Market Grill: Seafood Haven with Coastal Charm
Escape to the seaside at The Market Grill, a sophisticated restaurant offering a delectable selection of fresh seafood. Their “Grilled Lobster” is a luxurious treat, served with melted butter and lemon. For a lighter option, try their “Seafood Platter,” a vibrant assortment of oysters, prawns, and scallops.
15. Baba Chews Bar & Eatery: Peranakan Delights with a Modern Twist
Explore the vibrant flavors of Peranakan cuisine at Baba Chews Bar & Eatery, a modern restaurant showcasing the culinary heritage of the Straits Chinese. Their “Beef Rendang” is a rich, flavorful stew cooked with tender beef and fragrant spices. For a refreshing dessert, try their “Chendol,” a sweet dessert made with coconut milk, shaved ice, and green rice noodles.
Useful Tables:
Table 1: By Cuisine
| Cuisine | Restaurants |
|---|---|
| Modern European | Burnt Ends, Forlino |
| Indonesian | Kafe Utu |
| Hawker Fare | Tanjong Pagar Market |
| Spanish | Esquina |
| Israeli | Miznon |
| Singaporean | Yakun Kaya Toast |
| Chinese | Ding Tai Fung |
| American | Maggie Joan’s |
| Healthy Bowls | Grain Traders |
| Japanese | Sushi Omakase Ken |
| Argentinean | BoCHINche |
| Seafood | The Market Grill |
| Peranakan | Baba Chews Bar & Eatery |
Table 2: By Price Range
| Price Range | Restaurants |
|---|---|
| $ | Tanjong Pagar Market, Yakun Kaya Toast |
| $$ | Forlino, Esquina, Baba Chews Bar & Eatery |
| $$$ | Burnt Ends, Ding Tai Fung, Sushi Omakase Ken |
| $$$$ | BoCHINche, The Market Grill |
Table 3: By Atmosphere
| Atmosphere | Restaurants |
|---|---|
| Casual | Kafe Utu, Yakun Kaya Toast, Grain Traders |
| Sophisticated | Forlino, Esquina, MeatSmith |
| Intimate | Burnt Ends, Ding Tai Fung, Sushi Omakase Ken |
| Lively | BoCHINche, Tanjong Pagar Market, Miznon |
Table 4: By Special Occasions
| Special Occasion | Restaurants |
|---|---|
| Romantic Dinner | Forlino, Esquina, MeatSmith |
| Business Lunch | Burnt Ends, Ding Tai Fung, Grain Traders |
| Family Gathering | Kafe Utu, Yakun Kaya Toast, The Market Grill |
| Birthday Celebration | BoCHINche, Tanjong Pagar Market, Miznon |
