About the Author: Harnoor Channi-Tiwary is a seasoned food and travel writer who lives life one meal at a time. Based in Singapore with over 15 years of editorial experience, she has a knack for unearthing the deep-rooted connections between food, history, and anthropology. Whether she’s sitting on the tasting panels of prestigious food awards or exploring a hidden taverna in Europe, Harnoor’s writing is defined by her interest in how cuisines evolve as they travel over time and distance. You can follow her culinary journeys on her blog, Life in a Million Bites, or find her on Instagram at @hctdines.
Entire cuisines rarely traverse borders intact. What we associate with a country’s culinary character is often a filtered or altered version of its authentic self; Chicken Tikka Masala and Naan aren't truly representative of Indian cuisine, nor is Kung Pao Chicken of the vastness of Chinese cuisine. However, these "travelling versions" play a pivotal role in popularising a culture’s flavours.
When discussing the food of Barcelona, tapas immediately comes to mind. Though tapas isn't traditionally Catalan, having migrated to Barcelona from Andalusia in Southern Spain, its inherent congeniality has made it a global favourite. As a top choice for a night out, it facilitates easy banter over shared plates and matching cocktails.
Amor encapsulates this energy and brings it all the way to Singapore. Perhaps the most beautiful thing about Barcelona, second only to the genius of Gaudi’s architecture, is its evening vibe. Bars heaving at the seams, long queues for a table, a variety of small plates jostling for space, and an easy buzz hinting at a long, good night. Half a world away, Amor replicates this warmth and joy of social dining, successfully lighting up Amoy Street.
The interiors are said to be Gaudí-inspired, though they don’t demand immediate attention quite like the master's work. Instead, what catches your eye is the atmosphere. Everyone genuinely seems to be having a good time, a significant accomplishment for a restaurant so new to Singapore’s competitive dining scene.
The Menu: Designed for the Social Table
The menu at Amor is built for sharing. Do note that portions are small; you may find yourself ordering doubles if you’re with a larger group. Just as they do in Barcelona, I urge you to begin with an Iberico sharing platter. This selection of high-quality jamon and chorizo, served with gherkins and pickled onions, is the perfect companion to your drinks. While the range of cocktails and zero-proof options is enticing, the wine list is not to be taken lightly. Sipping a medium-bodied red while nibbling on jamon, we let a "democratic process" of whatever caught our fancy dictate the next few dishes.
A mountain of Padron Peppers overflowing from a plate is a blindfolded ‘yes’ at any Spanish restaurant, and Amor doesn’t disappoint. These bright green peppers are flash-fried until their skins are blistered and translucent, seasoned simply with a generous dusting of sea salt. Pair them with the refreshing cocktails, or 0-proof mocktails, if you so wish. Even better are the Piquillo Peppers. These small, beak-shaped red peppers from Northern Spain are a revelation. Roasted to bring out their inherent sweetness, they are drizzled with a rich, velvety cheese sauce that cuts through the peppers’ smokiness. It is a sophisticated balance of flavours; sweet, charred, and creamy, that you don't commonly find, and a delight to discover.
The Gambas al Ajillo at Amor is a departure from the garlicky prawn skillet you may have seen elsewhere. Elevated atop a smoked potato foam, the prawns are served whole with their heads on. Usually, my favourite tapas, this version didn't quite hit the right notes for me. However, all was forgotten the moment the Jamón Iberico Croquettes arrived. With a creamy béchamel filling, these were hands-down my favourite bite at Amor. My only grouse? They come in portions of two, so you’ll definitely need a couple of plates to do them justice.
Mains and a "Cheesy" Conclusion
If you prefer meat over seafood, the Pork Ribs on the table next to mine appeared both delicious and generous. That said, one cannot visit a Spanish restaurant and skip the Paella. A Valencian dish by origin (where it’s traditionally cooked with rabbit or chicken), the Barcelona rendition usually features seafood, sometimes mixed with meat. At Amor, the Squid Ink Seafood Paella is a stellar choice for a communal main course.
End your meal with their famous Burnt Basque Cheesecake. Boasting a stronger blue cheese profile for a more elevated palate, it is the perfect finisher for those who like a slightly savoury interplay in their dessert course.
Having visited Amor twice in a single week, it is the vibe that leaves the lasting impression. It offers an easy night out. Good food, great music, and the kind of place equally suited for a birthday celebration or an intimate date night. Me gusta el Amor, and I reckon you will too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Amor located?
Amor is situated in the heart of the CBD at 107 Amoy Street, Singapore 069927. It is a short walk from both Telok Ayer (Downtown Line) and Tanjong Pagar (East-West Line) MRT stations.
What are Amor Singapore’s opening hours?
The restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday.
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Lunch: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
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Dinner: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Midnight)
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Closed on Sundays.
Do I need a reservation at Amor Singapore?
Given its vibrant evening vibe and popularity on Amoy Street, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner. You can reach them at +65 8916 5607 or via their website.
Is there a set lunch available?
Yes, for those looking for a midday escape, Amor offers a $38++ three-course set lunch that includes some of their signature dishes such as the Jamón Iberico Croquettes and the Basque Cheesecake.
