6 Must‑Visit Restaurants That Make Every Mile Worth It

Singapore’s Scenic Dining Escapes: A Convertible‑Car‑Fuelled Adventure

Ever felt like your daily commute could use a splash of adventure? Think about swapping the usual traffic jam for a leisurely road trip to six hidden gems that promise a beautiful view without breaking the bank on fuel. These spots are a mile— or an hour— away at most, so they’re right on the borderline of “well, should I even drive?” and “yes, let’s roll out the rug and pull in the foot‑pumps.”

Why a Convertible is Your Ticket to Sweet Sunset Dining

Open‑Air Freedom – You’re riding a convertible with the windows down, breezing past the city’s daily grind. The “ol’ convertible” that’s gathering dust in your garage suddenly feels like a golden ticket.
Clock‑Ticking Food – With an hour‑long car ride at most, you’ll keep your stomach satisfied while the scenery whizzes past.
Chill Evenings – Plan your visit for the evenings, when the temperature drops just enough to taste the breeze while your eyes keep an eye on the sunset‑kissed skyline.
People Watching 101 – Each location offers a scenic perch. Sit back, sip a cocktail, and enjoy the event of city‑life rolling in like a well‑scored page of a street‑level novel.

The Six Must‑See Dining Spots

We’ve hand‑picked six spots that make travel worth the trip:

Ingredient‑Infused Rooftop Haven – tap into Singapore’s culinary fusion while overlooking the skyline.
Mountain‑Air Bistro – savor dishes with a side of misty mountain views (perfect for the evening breeze).
Coastal Chic Spot – where sea‑salt air meets modern plating.
Garden‑Gated Café – a peaceful garden escape wrapped in witty décor.
Urban Hideout – the minimalistic interior that lets the view do all the talking.
Night‑Sky Dining Den – where the stars are as big a highlight as the plates.

All of these ten‑minute‑plus routes are a short drive from the heart of the city, promising an evening out that feels a little more exotic than a Tuesday night at your favourite hawker centre.

Pro Tips for the Great Convertible Journey

Keep the windows partially open – feel the southern breeze without blowing the curb.
Plan a playlist that lasts longer than the drive.
Arrive a bit earlier to snag a prime spot for that sunset‑backdrop window seat.
Check the weather – a wet ride makes the convertible a slickly unrealistic option.
Remember: the charm is in the drive, not just the dishes.

So dust off that trusty convertible, pull the foot‑pumps, and head out tonight – because a short car ride can turn an ordinary evening into an extraordinary escapade.

Coriander Leaf at Singapore Polo Club

Coriander Leaf at Singapore Polo Club – A Fresh Twist From the Turf

If you’re in the mood to escape the city buzz, drive over to Coriander Leaf on Mount Pleasant Road. Whether you fancy a cozy indoor bite or a breezy verandah lunch with a view of the lush polo field, the place has got you covered. Launched this March, the second venue of the two‑decade‑old Coriander Leaf Group brings a taste of Asia in a sport‑spun setting.

Kitchen Storyline

Chef Samia Ahad and Executive Chef Iskander Latiff teamed up to craft a menu that’s a love letter to East, South, Southeast and Western Asia.
The duo’s inspiration? Peranakan flair + Maltese street food + a sprinkle of Malaysia’s heritage.
Think signature dishes from their flagship Chijmes spot plus snazzy new creations that’ll make your palate dance.

What’s on the Plate?

Cambodian Beef Salad – Citrus‑cured, organic beef tenderloin, bright sawtooth coriander, mint, Thai basil, chillies, toasted rice. Fresh, zesty, utterly Instagram‑worthy.
Wagyu Beef Rib Rendang – Prime rib on the bone, served with a gleefully ginger‑fen, lime‑leaf, & ulam raja salad. Sidekick: turmeric‑saffron sticky rice that’s almost a secret lover’s kiss.
Samia’s Chicken Haleem – Slow‑cooked chicken, dal, bulghur wheat, garam masala, topped with naan. Comfort food that’s made to hug you back.
Exclusive to this spot:
- Nonya Assam Seabass – Flushed with ginger flower, bright belimbing (a little sour), paired with fried eggplant & okra. Boom‑boom flavor explosion.
- Burmese Khao Suey – Noodles soaked in chicken broth spiced with galangal, lemongrass & coconut milk. Finishing touch: fried noodles and fresh coriander.
- Spiced Valrhona Lava Cake – The sweet finale, accompanied by a chilled teh tarik‑flavored scoop of ice cream.

Bar Bonanza

The outlet’s bar showcases house‑made Asian‑infused cocktails, syrups, and spiced salts.
You’ll also discover a collection of Asian distillers – Singapore‑produced gins, Thai & Cambodian rums, and vodkas & whiskies straight from India.
It’s less “mix‑ology” and more “taste‑topia.”

When to Drop In

Open for dinner Tuesdays–Fridays.
Catch the full view of polo practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30‑6:30 p.m.

Location: 80 Mount Pleasant Rd, Singapore 298334

Greenhouse at Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore

A Slice of Green Paradise at Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore

Picture this: you’re nestled amid lush foliage, a golf course at your feet, and the aroma of sizzling dishes swirling around you. That’s exactly what Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore offers—a dining oasis linked directly to the Laguna National Golf Resort Club, home to not one but two championship golf courses.

All‑Day Dining That’s a View Above the Rest

The Greenhouse restaurant sits like a modern bunker with floor‑to‑ceiling windows that let you feast your eyes—and stomach—on verdant scenery. No need for a golf club here; a cutlery set will do.

Five Show Kitchens, One Mission: Food That Pops

Get ready for a culinary fireworks display:

Thai – Dive into a green curry with chicken, eggplant, and basil, or sink your teeth into a steamed barramundi fillet drenched in spicy green chili, garlic, and lime sauce.
Yue (Cantonese) – Classic Cantonese vibes that make every bite a little gourmet adventure.
Punjabi Tandoor – Think spicy, smoky, and utterly delicious: the Murgh Malai Kebab (tender chicken) and the Seekh Kebab (mince lamb).
Mediterranean – Fresh, sun‑kissed flavors that’ll make you feel like you’re strolling through a seaside alley.
Nikkei – A playful fusion that blends Japanese technique with Latin flair—yup, sushi meets a salsa dance!

And if you need a shoulder‑to‑lean on, the menu has you covered with dry‑aged steaks, sustainable seafood, and even apple‑wood‑fired pizzas—because yes, pizza can celebrate the great outdoors.

Nightfall: The Legends Bar

After you’ve boomed your plates, hop over to the Legends Bar. It’s a humble tribute to golf’s legendary players, with cocktails named after the greats. Here’s a standout:

Daly Smash – A gin‑based marvel featuring fresh lime, a whisper of chili padi tincture, a pink peppercorn salt rim, and a basil garnish that screams “golf‑green paradise.”

Pair that sippable masterpiece with some hearty bar bites:

Deep‑fried chicken wings – Rolled in vinegar lime leaf and fish sauce, they’ll melt in your mouth faster than a golfer’s ball into the hole.
Moo Ping – Savory, marinated pork skewers that are the Thai street‑food equivalent of a hole‑in‑one.
Legends Beef Sliders – Grilled wagyu brisket patties, aged cheddar, caramelised onions, grilled bacon, and a green tomato relish on a fluffy charcoal brioche bun. Serious mouth‑watering.

Location: 11 Laguna Golf Green, Singapore 488047.

In Closing

Whether you’re a golf junkie, a foodie, or just looking for a place that feels like an oasis in the city, Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore puts everyone in a green club that’s far more than just a course—it’s a culinary fairway waiting for you.

Curate Cucina Pisana at Resorts World Sentosa

New Tuscan Treasure on Sentosa Island

Hold onto your fork, because Resorts World Sentosa has just dropped a slice of Italian paradise—Curate Cucina Pisana. Nestled on Level 1 of The Forum, this spot promises a genuine Tuscan feast led by the home‑grown maestro, Chef Davide Bizzarri.

Why It’s a Must‑Try

Seasonal, hand‑picked ingredients straight from Pisa’s finest local farms.
Chef Davide’s family‑secret recipes, polished by his own twist.
Only the best truffles, olive oils, and cured meats from Pisan villages.

Start Your Journey

Begin with a light antipasti—think silky Stracciatella cheese, vine‑sweet tomatoes, and a splash of fresh basil. Pair that with white clams and mussels cooked in a zesty pescatora sauce. It’s a match made in seafood heaven.

Clam, Clam, Clam—Every Kind!

White clams mingle with their briny cousins, creating a flavor explosion that’ll make you say, “Mate, that’s a real wave!”

Carb‑Fixes With a Twist

The Lily Leaves of Pasta

Got a taste for something quirky? There’s the Gigli—a pasta shaped like lily flowers, swirled in saffron, sweetened by chickpeas cream, and topped with the bold flavors of cured cod (Baccala) and rosemary. Don’t forget those oven‑dried tomatoes that add savory joy.

From the Classic to the Charcoal‑Crisp

Painted in the tradition of Martelli, a family‑run pasta shop in the medieval corner of Lari. Their spaghetti, twirled in potato cream sauce, is a throwback to old‑school Italy, plus clams, candied lemon, olives, and a sprinkle of parsley for that belly‑laughing crunch.

Turned‑Up Main Dish

Not only pasta—pair the silky fish with a venison rack presented in a shallot sauce that’s been birthed from a rich San Giovese wine reduction. This is the kind of meat that’s as daring as it is delicious.

Wrap It Up With Sweet Delight

Don’t kiss the moment without a sweet finale: the Pisan Torta co’ Bischeri, a decadent dark chocolate risotto cake that’s the lovechild of raisins, pine nuts, and candied fruits. Or go for the “Poi” with a Chianti‑poached pear, complete with a creamy panna cotta sidekick. It’s cake and sauce, all in one bite.

Location & Logistics

Map your way: 26 Sentosa Gateway, The Forum, #01-231 & 232, Singapore 098138. Book a spot, soak in the Tuscany vibe, and turn your lunch into a legend.

Bedrock Origin at Oasia Resort Sentosa Hotel

Take a Bite of Bedrock Origin at Oasia Resort Sentosa Hotel

What’s the buzz?

If you’re on the hunt for a fresh spot on Sentosa, Bedrock Origin is the buzz-worthy destination you’ve got to try. The place is all about hearty flavors, a touch of adventure, and a dash of whimsical charm.

Star of the Show: Dry‑Aged Steaks

Picture this: juicy, dry‑aged steaks sizzling over an applewood fire grill. The aroma hits you like a warm hug from the forest. It’s slow‑cooked, buttery‑tender, and gives you that “I’m on a food‑vacation” vibe.

Extra Treats You Can’t Pass Up

Kingfish sashimi paired with a puff of brown rice and a splash of savory ceviche soy dressing.
Stir‑fry Kühlbarra Barramundi Tail brightened with chili, herbs, and a twist of lemon.
And for the die‑hard crunch lovers: Bedrock Mac ‘N’ Cheese — nothing says comfort food like creamy cheesy sauce on a bed of pasta.
The house specialty, Beef Fat Fried Rice, is a wholesome twist featuring brown rice and barley. Who knew healthy could taste so indulgent?

Sweet Finish

End your meal with Bedrock Crumble – a caramelized mix of Granny Smith apples topped with walnut streusel and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s like dessert’s best friend.

Drink Like a Pro

Before you dig in, sip on a whisky‑based pre‑dinner cocktail crafted with the help of Woodford Reserve. If you’re a whisky aficionado, ask the sommelier for a world‑wide recommendation – from humble distillery gems to limited‑edition treasures like the Woodford Reserve ‘Master Collection Very Rare Fine Bourbon’.

Where You Can Find It

23 Beach View, Palawan Ridge, 01-02, Oasia Resort Sentosa Hotel, Singapore 098679.
Happy hunting!

Bee’s Knees at Gallop Extension, Botanic Gardens

Savor Your Hunger in Singapore’s Green Oasis: Bee’s Knees Petite

A Delectable Hideaway in Botanic Gardens

Nestled in the sprawling foliage of Botanic Gardens’ Gallop Extension, Bee’s Knees Petite is a cozy little gem just a stroll away from the Botanical Art Gallery, COMO Adventure Grove, and the newest garden attractions. Whether you fancy a relaxed indoor meal with an all‑day menu or a quick grab‑and‑go bite, this spot has you covered.

Pinche Chicken Sandwich – smoky chicken breast, charred baby corn, avocado, and jalapeño mayo for a flavor explosion.
Oriental Salad – smoked duck breast meets couscous, wolfberries, tomatoes, and a spicy plum sauce splash.
Beef Cheek Bolognese – hearty, indulgent, and unapologetically comforting.

Wrap things up with one of their sweet treats:

Fluffernutter in a Jar – think charcoal cookie crumbs, chocolate sponge, and hazelnut praline.
Macadamia Brown Butter Blondie – a buttery brownie with white chocolate glaze that will make you do a happy dance.

Pick a coffee, kombucha, or a mix‑berry smoothie before heading out for a leisurely walk. With plenty of sweet pastries and savory pies to munch on, you’ll have dessert even before you decide whether to linger or hightail it out.

Kid‑friendly? Absolutely. The outlet offers a kids’ breakfast and lunch set, so your little ones can have a tasty adventure as well.

Picnic Perfection

If you’re feeling the outdoors, Bee’s Knees Petite provides picnic boxes—choose your own sandwiches, salads, pastas, and drinks. The cute boxes come with a handy take‑home picnic mat for a backyard feast or a sunny jungle expedition.

For those who want the classic experience, the original Bee’s Knees at The Garage is also located in Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Address: 9 Gallop Rd, Singapore 259014

Claudine at Harding Road

The much anticipated French restaurant by top chef Julien Royer opens this November. Located in the former White Rabbit address, this space has gone through a major revamp. Aside from the main dining hall and sizeable open kitchen, there’s a private dining room for eight persons. The old chapel’s beautiful stained glass and mosaic flooring have been carefully preserved.

The a la carte menu is extensive and eclectic. Diners can expect to savour traditional family recipes from the chef’s mother, Claudine. Signatures from the Cantal region include truffade, sauteed potatoes with Cantal cheese and garlic, or chou farci, a rustic dish of stuffed cabbage with pork.

Aside from homespun regional creations from France, there will be a range of creations that Royer usually cooks for friends and loved ones. According to him, Claudine is all about offering an experience that is both convivial and generous.

ALSO READ: Restaurant review: Hortus blooms in Gardens by the Bay with rustic Mediterranean fare

Other French classics to look forward to include steak flambee au poire, steak tartare, homemade charcuterie, torchon foie gras, and a hearty bouillabaisse with fish, scallops, prawns and potatoes, with a side of rouille. There may also be some surprises like pasta with uni. End your meal with tarte soufflee au chocolat and a tipple from the stylish bar.

39C Harding Rd, Singapore 249541.

This article was first published in The Peak.
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