Tanjong Pagar in Malay means “cape of stakes,” a name reflecting its origins as a fishing village situated on a former promontory. Tanjong is "cape" and Pagar means "fence" or enclosed space, for example - a wharf where ships are moored.
As many of our readers would have already discovered through dine in or delivery, the vicinity today holds a reputed wine, dine, bar and venue hotbed sprawling across its centrally located neighbourhood right beside Chinatown. This multicultural area is brimming with international dining offering diverse cuisine options, where one can enjoy lazy weekend brunches, boozy dinners and marvy mid-day meals. From a mixture of charming bars to global restaurants, and tasty street food to hip cafes — Tanjong Pagar offers an eclectic range to satisfy any taste.
Expat Choice takes great delight in sharing our complete scoop on the most scrumptious food spots we managed to suss out in the district. And because we know you love being spoilt for choice — here’s 32 options to keep you busy for literally months. Enjoy what we have to offer! Image Credit: D.O.C Facebook Page
Baristart Coffee
Hailing from Hokkaido, Japan, Baristart Coffee has evolved into a lifestyle cafe since 2015. This coffee joint is all about concoctions made with the signature BIEI Jersey milk from Brown Jersey cows. Serving up a full-range menu of coffee, desserts and savouries, they pride themselves in using the pure, uncompromising quality of Hokkaido dairy — both rich and creamy with a tinge of sweetness. Beverage options range from coffee classics like a Latte, or alternatives like Brown Sugar Boba (for those who carry sweeter tastebuds). Image Credit: Baristart Coffee Facebook Page
a. 65 Tras St, Singapore 079004
Leopold Gastrobar
The heart of leopold group is leopold gastrobar along Tanjong Pagar Road. Established in 2014, young entrepreneur Klaus Leopold started this, his second F&B concept out of passion. An Austrian, German and Swiss restaurant & bar, for most a bistro or just simply like the name tells – a gastrobar. The cuisine is developed by Klaus, a native Austrian and everywhere in the bistro you can find some Austrian and German influences and not to forget all their wine, beer and spirits as well as self-imported food products. This is the real deal and brought to you with heart. Delivery available.
a. Tanjong Pagar MRT, 96 Tanjong Pagar Road 088517
f. www.facebook.com/leopold.sg
BUS: Tanjong Pagar Road, Aft Craig Road Bus 80, Bus 145
d.o.c (Italiana)
Short for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, the d.o.c Italian eatery plates out delish Neapolitan cuisine. We’re not over-hyping it, but the wood-fired pizzas are seriously out of this world. Prepared with toppings such as spicy salami, smoked Norwegian salmon or fresh burratina — each serving is an absolute delight to munch through. Pair slices up with a glass of wine and have yourself a winning combination to dine on. Image Credit: d.o.c Facebook Page
a. 21 Tg Pagar Rd, #01-01, Singapore 088444
Fat Prince
Who’s got the munchies for Middle Eastern cuisine? We recommend dropping by the buzzy, edgy and engaging Fat Prince restaurant on Peck Seah Street, known for its modern versions of kebabs, salads, large plates and desserts. The elevated dining experience gives diners a chance to unwind as they soak in the sights and sounds of their stylish surrounds and funky beats — all whilst enjoying unconventional kebabs and “koktails.” The signature custom-made earth oven is the secret behind producing melt-in-your-mouth meats which make bold appearances on the menu. From a yummy spread of variety available — find roasted cashew hummus, crispy sea bass and harissa prawns, amongst more. Fly high on weekend brunch, by topping up $69 for a two-hour free-flow of prosecco, lager and wine. By the by, there’s more to love about them — the green-hearted resto strives for sustainably sourced ingredients and works towards reducing food and plastic waste in its operations. Image Credit: Fat Prince Facebook Page
a. 48 Peck Seah St, Singapore 079317
Bearded Bella
A cool little cafe for chillaxing on Craig Road, Bearded Bella is big on flavours and textures. While tastes might be a bit quirky, the environment essence is ‘all about enjoying the good life.’ The brekkie is a spin on the usual with homemade luncheon meat, pickled enoki and bok choy. Its mains delivers brunch with a twist — think crab croissant with scrambled eggs and asparagus, or mushroom, hummus and almond dukkah on grain toast. Curly fries are a big hit here, but leave space for desserts like tasty sticky date pudding or blueberry tart. Whether you’re after a cuppa coffee, or some good grub after work — the kitchen is open all day long. Image Credit: Bearded Bella Facebook Page
a. 8 Craig Rd, Singapore 089668
Chicken Up
If the goal is to ‘Eat.Drink.Chill’ then Chicken Up is a worthy spot for your consideration. If you’re not savvy with the divine combination of fried chicken, sticky sauces and watermelon soju — here’s where you’ll get an enjoyable education. Standout classics include soya chicken wings, and for seekers of spice, yangnyum chicken. Don’t leave without getting your fill of kimchi fries — they’re the bomb. Prepare to dig into the chicken goodness, and get your hands dirty with deliciousness.. also, trust us when we advise not wearing white to this one! Image Credit: Chicken Up Facebook Page
a. 48 #01-01 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088469
Whole Earth
Proud to be Singapore’s first and only plant-based restaurant to be awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for 4 consecutive years (2016-2019) — Whole Earth is a welcoming foodie destination for vegans, vegetarians, and those soon-to-be-one. Specialising in Peranakan-Thai plant-based food, here’s where you can eat your fill of divine meatless dishes in Tanjong Pagar. Eliminating the use of mock meat and MSG, enjoy chowing through tasty platefuls like XO or olive fried rice, crispy golden oat tofu, Nonya curry and Penang rending.
Since 2003, their culinary inspiration has been derived from the following thought; “If plant-based ingredients could be creatively put together to achieve great taste, more people around the world would be happy to embrace quality plant-based food in their everyday lives.” Whole Earth is the ideal neighbourhood choice to bring family and friends on a plant-based diet, for simply satisfying meals! Image Credit: Whole Earth Facebook Page
a. 76 Peck Seah St, Singapore 079331
O.BBa Jjajang
When someone says they’re craving Korean food, O.BBa Jjajang is the kind of place you’d bring one to for enjoyable indulgences. Explore a spread of Korean and Chinese specialties served in a buzzing destination with understated decor. For a taste of Korean food — particularly jjajangmyeon (noodles in a thick black bean sauce) — this popular Tanjong Pagar joint with impeccable service and friendly staff delivers dishes of deliciousness to its diners. Complement your bowl with servings of sweet and sour pork or cheese kimchi pancake for a hearty meal. Image Credit: O.BBa Jjajang Facebook Page
a. 77 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088498
Brasserie Gavroche
Touted as Singapore’s most authentic French dining experience, Brasserie Gavroche is the island’s answer to traditional, honest Brasserie cooking. Founded and helmed by Chef-Owner Frederic Colin — look forward to feasting on the rustic, hand-me-down French recipes enjoyed by Parisians on a daily basis. Housed in a cosy shophouse, this homely Parisian bistro is where you can indulge in French fare such as; fish quenelles, steamed mussels with white wine, and Angus beef tartare, amongst many other dishes. Committed to bringing the best of France to the tables of Singapore, diners can expect spot on flavours and heart warming meals from a spread of highly satisfying dishes. Image Credit: Brasseriegavroche.com
a. 66 Tras St, Singapore 079005
Otto Ristorante
Taste the essence of Italian gastronomy with finesse and style, by digging into Otto Ristorante’s servings of authentic Italian cuisine. Nestled within Maxwell Chambers, this foodie spot is sophisticated enough for a business lunch, yet not too stuffy for either a family meal or a casual romantic dinner date. Offering quality food and amicable service — the urbane yet quaint ambience is accomplished by blending unique materials such as black glass, polished metal and oak wood with the current framework of a preserved traffic police building. Dine on refined plates of homemade squid ink tagliolini, smoked Boston lobster, salt-baked sea bass, spaghetti with sea urchin and slow-cooked duck leg confit, amongst other sumptuous servings. Image Credit: Otto Ristorante Facebook Page
a. 32 Maxwell Rd, #01-02/03 Maxwell Chambers, Singapore 069115
Teppei
Stop by the Orchid Hotel to experience Teppei’s Japanese fare — famous for its great value omakase set dinners and barachirashi (sashimi rice) lunch bowls. The 22 counter seater’s waiting list has been known to drag on for months, which means diners are more inclined to booking a table in advance. Take a bite out of the Japanese restaurant’s unique omakase feast, and you’ll understand why everyone’s clamouring to get a piece of the action. Since its omakase menu changes up menu offerings frequently, diners can prepare to enjoy pleasant culinary surprises! Image Credit: Teppei Group Facebook Page
a. 1 Tras Link, Singapore 078867, 01-18
Kko Kko Na Ra
Touted as the originator of Korean fried chicken in Singapore — most of Kko Kko Na Ra’s recipes are from Madam Lee’s (the owner) mother, who lived in a province famously known for making the best dishes in Korea. The Crispy Soy Garlic Chicken is the best selling fried chicken and became the signature dish of the Company, followed by meal add-on’s like; kimchi stew, seafood pancake, jam chai (glass noodles) and watermelon soju. Drop by to sample a mean dish of KFC (Korean Fried Chicken), with a twist of its own along with many other authentic Korean favourites. Find several KFC flavours on offer to encompass all tastebuds — including original, soy garlic sauce, cheese sprinkle, sweet & spicy, honey shiok, and mala. Image Credit: Kko Kko Na Ra Facebook Page
a. 68 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088489
Tippling Club
Featuring award-winning cuisine paired with world-class cocktails, Tippling Club aims to serve up an ever-evolving, dynamic dining experience. In this vegetarian-friendly establishment (housing a bar, dining room and upstairs private dining room), Chef-Owner Ryan Clift delivers a brand of modern gastronomy which is ultra-progressive, vibrant, playful and fresh. Well-recognised for its contemporary usage of techniques, ingredients and textures — this chic place is no stranger to prestigious awards. Kick off happy hour with top-notch drinks featuring innovative flavours, techniques and garnishes. While you’re at it, munch on delish wagyu tartare tacos and pastrami sandwiches. Now you know where to bring clients for an impressive afternoon. Image Credit: Tippling Club Facebook Page
a. 38 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088461
Coucou
Step through the doors of Coucou for an elegant experience — if you’re in the mood for Swiss food. Find plenty of Rosti variations on the menu, including ones with veal sausage or melted Swiss raclette and ham. Speaking of cheese, the fondue options are not to be missed! Have your feast paired with exceptional Swiss wines for optimum gratification (Sparkling, White, Rose, Red) — or opt for a selection of other Swiss alcoholic beverages. Save space for fabulous sweet treats offered for desserts, like the Meringue & Double Crème de la Gruyère. This locale on Craig Road brings you the best of Swiss cuisine. Video Credit: Expat Choice Asia
a. 9 Craig Rd, Singapore 089669
Tendon Ginza Itsuki (Ramen Keisuke)
A sister resto of Ramen Keisuke, and their eight concept outlet — Tendon Ginza Istuki is the popular ramen chain’s first concept in collaboration with the highly acclaimed Ginza Itsuki Sushi restaurant in Tokyo, Japan. Craving tempura? Skip the sushi plates and dine at this popular hotspot. The delightful one-bowl soul food meals are served in special porcelain bowls by Arita — a 400 year-old porcelain brand from Japan. Its tendon bowls are fresh, light and tasty, with everything from seafood to pork to chicken tempura. The beautifully creamy chawanmushi is also a smashing highlight. The menu is small and the lines are usually long, but we’d say its worth the wait. Image Credit: Ramen Keisuke / Keisuke Tokyo Facebook Page
a. 101 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088522
w. www.keisuke.sg/ginza-tendon-itsuki-tanjong-pagar
Ristorante Luka
Serving up a fresh take on Italian-Japanese cuisine in a casual and contemporary setting — Luka’s chill hangout zone is great for team lunches or fun dinner gathering with friends. Italian culinary classics are melded in synchronisation with Japanese ingredients, evidencing the team’s strong display of innovation and modernised cooking techniques. A trip to Ristorante Luka wouldn’t be complete without sampling their signature pizzas, pastas and grilled wagyu steaks. Aside from its crowd-pleasing starters (the parma ham and burrata pie is all kinds of amazing), be sure to check out their chefs’ seasonal specials which are exclusive to each outlet. Image Credit: Luka Italian Dining Facebook Page
a. 18 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088441
Bar-Roque Grill
Proud to be the only European restaurant awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for 3 years consecutively (2017-2019), Bar-Roque Grill is one of the best French restaurants in Singapore. This steakhouse flies the French flag high with dry-aged beef and house-produced charcuterie, Gillette’s and terrines. This joint is all about fun and togetherness, as Chef Stephane serves up French-inspired food with character. Must-try dishes include the charred, smoky beef cuts, or dishes like pork chop and spring chicken. For more variety, the menu also features pasta, seafood, and cheese, plus creative rum cocktails at the bar to boot. Image Credit: Bar-Roque Grill Facebook Page
a. 165 Tg Pagar Rd, #01-00, Singapore 088539
Restaurant Euphoria
New to the F&B scene in 2020, Restaurant Euphoria launched a conceptual platform inspired by the exquisite culinary philosophy of Chef Jason Tan (first and only Singaporean Chef to be awarded the Michelin star four years in a row). His fine execution in making the Gastro-Botanica vision a reality, bears applaudable efforts on novel plates leaving the kitchen. This eatery highlights plants in all sorts of intricate, diverse details and elevates freshly-sourced ingredients in the most beautiful way — offering an array of mouth-watering delicacies on its menu. Look forward to the six-course Secret Garden of Euphoria, or indulgently bask in the eight-course Journey of Euphoria (alcohol beverage pairing is also available). A hit on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list for 2021 — dining here is quite the treat, where one can expect a sleek and sophisticated experience like no other! Image Credit: Restaurant Euphoria Facebook Page
a. 76 Tras St, Singapore 079015
s. www.facebook.com/restauranteuphoria
Terra
Bringing you the best of both worlds with a remarkable fusion of Japanese food culture in Italian cuisine — is none other than Terra (Tokyo Italian). The brainchild of Japanese Chef-Owner Seita Nakahara, this Omakase-only, one Michelin-starred restaurant presents you with beautiful plates of food (and makes for a great spot for an idyllic date night). Pushing against boundaries from the onset and backed by immense culinary creativity, Chef Nakahara crafts each course from hand-selected seasonal ingredients, sourced from farms and producers in Japan. The line-up changes according to the chef’s whim, so prepare to be surprised by his creations! Image Credit: Terra Facebook Page
a. 54 Tras St, Singapore 078993
Public Izakaya by Hachi
The idea behind Public Izakaya by Hachi, is a friendly and authentic izakaya for the masses, serving traditional izakaya cuisine for the everyday salary man. The space on the ground floor of 100AM is great for alfresco dining with a lively buzz. Plus, the menu is extensive and the food is scrumptious. Just pull up a seat at the bar counter and dine your way through udon, chicken karaage and yakitori skewers. It’s a great, perpetually packed place for a Friday night chillin’ scene. Image Credit: The Public Izakaya Facebook Photos
a. 100 Tras St, #01 - 09, Singapore 079027
s. www.facebook.com/pages/The%20Public%20Izakaya/616909075028200
Roji Monster
Holding multiple outlets in Taiwan, Korea, U.S.A, Australia, China, Canada and Malaysia — Roji Monster is a popular Taiwanese shaved ice dessert spot that’ll help chaps beat the heat any day.
Got room for dessert? Just pick your preferred flavour — including mango passion fruit, milk, uji matcha, belgian chocolate, milk and black sesame — and get toppings such as aloe vera, cornflakes or honeycomb. Each order comes with the brand’s signature googly eyes, which makes the aesthetics of your sweet bowlful absolutely adorbs! Image Credit: Roji Monster Singapore Facebook Page
a. 52 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088473
The Blue Ginger
The birthing of The Blue Ginger is largely built around respect and celebration of the Peranakan culture — feasting together with family and friends! Your dining experience will bring to light the team’s passionate strive to preserve the ancient heritage and tradition in both cuisine and service.
Balanced with just the right touch of modernisation, and aided by intention towards keeping the unique Peranakan culture alive and relatable — this place is a must-visit for authentic, heart-warming meals with loved ones. Image Credit: The Blue Ginger Facebook Page
a. 97 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088518
2D1N Soju Bang
Those on the hunger prowl for a Korean BBQ bite, can find home sweet home at 2D1N Soju Bang. Grab a seat and dive straight into the splendorous offerings. We’re talking about kimchi pancake, tofu stew, sweet and sour fried chicken, spicy seafood soup and loads more. Best of all, the joint is open till 1:00AM, so jot this one down as a trusty spot to satisfy your midnight cravings at. Image Credit: 2D1N Soju Bang Facebook Page
a. 46 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088467
w. 2d1n-soju-bang-korean-restaurant.business.site
s. www.facebook.com/Ssikkek.2D1NSojuBang
t. +65 6227 6033
Tori King (Ramen Keisuke)
Tori King joins the myriad of casual and fine dining restaurants at Amara Hotel, renowned for its hospitality and diverse gastronomic offerings inspired by all corners of the globe. Stemming from the same team behind the Keisuke Ramen group, this Japanese resto serves up exquisite goodness. The exceptional broth of the tori king ramen is made from chicken bones, chicken feet, Japanese seaweed and veggies boiled together for eight hours. The signature broth is a total slurp-worthy pleasure to experience your fill of! Image Credit: Ramen Keisuke Facebook Page
a. 100 Tras St, Singapore 079027
w. www.keisuke.sg/tori-king-tanjong-pagar
IndoChili
Hungry for traditional Indonesian recipes, featuring spices and pastas made from scratch? IndoChili is indeed the halal hotspot to hit up. The menu takes you on a culinary journey, from classics like tahu telor (beancurd omelette) to yam panggang padang (grilled chicken) to ikan bakar bali (grilled snapper fish). Rice sets are great for lunch too. Count on your fill of fried chicken, tofu, prawns, squid, and much more. With much pride they offer up their finest cuisines, straight out of the heart of Indonesia. Image Credit: IndoChili Facebook Page
Chef’s Table by Chef Stephan
The beauty of the fine dining experience at Chef’s Table, is the elimination of repetitive signature dishes — their philosophy exercises the goal to never serve a guest the same dish twice. Instead, a selection of 28 key seasonal ingredients are showcased on their daily degustation menu. Diners simply cross out ingredients they don’t prefer that day (or which fall under dietary restrictions), and the remainder is considered by Chef Stephan Zoisl and his kitchen team to present back lovely choices of four-course, six-course and eight-course meals. They also accommodate the option of vegan or vegetarian. Image Credit: Chef's Table by Chef Stephan Zoisl Facebook Page
a. 61 Tras St, Singapore 079000
Fluer De Sel
Francophiles will appreciate the French offerings of Fleur de Sea, where Chef-Owner Alexandre Lozachmeur’s experience includes six years of working under renowned Chef Alain Ducasse. The restaurant’s set lunches and dinners include lovely plates of Boston lobster bisque, roasted veal rack, pan-seared foie gras, and stuffed French quail. If you’re in the mood for French food, walk through their doors with expectancy for on point plates to be delivered your way — and walk out having soaked up the genuine fulfilment from your meal and overall experience here. Image Credit: Fleur de Sel Le Restaurant Facebook Page
a. 64 Tras St, Singapore 079003
Gattopardo Ristorante Di Mare
Recognised as one heck of an award-winning Italian restaurant in Singapore — Gattopardo Ristorante Di Mare is a marriage of sustainable seafood and the warmth of Italian souls. Standing tall as the only Sicilian seafood restaurant in Tanjong Pagar, their food conveys the glorious tale of authentic flavours and inspirations. You could opt for the five-course Sicilian journey featuring Pesce al Sale (their signature salt baked fish), and Capesante (seared scallop with parsnip, smoked caviar), or rely on trusty chefs with the Omakase. Image Credit: Gattopardo Ristorante Di Mare Facebook Page
a. 34 Tras St, Singapore 079026
Bam! Restaurant
Singapore’s first restaurant to pay tribute to ‘Modern Shudo’ — the contemporary way of sake enjoyment — came with the arrival of Bam! Executive Chef Pepe Moncayo is driven by favoured ingredients of the season, holding high regards to the colours, flavours and textures which permeate his heavenly dishes with a touch of theatre. The Spanish-influenced Omakase style dining is presented in tasty cuisine transcending culinary boundaries. We’d recommend the five-course Omakase, but if your meal preference includes fine wine, sake or other beverages, there’s a la carte tapas menus available. Image Credit: Bam Restaurant Facebook Page
a. 38 Tras St, Singapore 078977
w. www.bam.sg
Torasho Ramen & Charcoal Bar
Tasty Japanese small plates and dipping Ramen await you at Torasho Ramen & Charcoal Bar. The open kitchen welcomes you from sitting neatly behind a lengthy bar spanning the restaurant, gifting you a comfortable dining space even during peak service hours. The modern izakaya showcases an extensive selection of Japanese fare with a Pan-Asian flair, and serves up mostly hot dishes — going against the stereotype of Japanese cuisine centring around only light, delicate dishes. From an array of price-friendly options, find offerings of traditional Tonksotsu Ramen, alongside modern spins like Truffle Tonkotsu. Image Credit: Torasho Ramen & Charcoal Bar Facebook Page
Superstar K
With beginnings rooted back in 2004 from a small food court outlet in Singapore, Superstar K has risen with a culinary platform of understanding: ‘it takes more than exquisite cooking to make a memorable meal.’ This is your go-to place for Korean charcoal BBQ dinner, with the take-way of an unforgettable experience created by the kitchen team. The divine Kimichi Soup goes for $14, and additional orders for the Steam Egg ($5) are common, but your appetite is worth saving for the juicy Seasoned King Beef Rib. Image Credit: Super Star K Facebook Page
a. 75 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088496
Ryo Sushi
Explore a wide selection of sushi and cooked specialities at Ryo Sushi, where healthy and fresh cuisine seamlessly combines warm tradition and modern innovation of Japanese classics. Each dish is beautifully constructed from purely natural, local, sustainable products One of your best value-for-money spots for sushi omakase available in Singapore, bookings here will be essential. You’ve got some brilliant options here — a 15-course lunch combo, the 18-course combo, and the jaw-dropping 18-course sea urchin menu — all as reasonably-priced as they are individually delicious! Image Credit: Ryo Sushi Facebook Page
