Singapore’s culinary scene is experiencing a renaissance in 2026, with innovative chefs and restaurateurs redefining the city’s gastronomic landscape. From traditional flavors with modern twists to entirely new dining concepts, here are five must-try restaurants that showcase the best of Singapore’s evolving food culture.
1. Araya
Address: Mondrian Singapore Duxton, 1 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089588
Overview: Araya has been recognized as one of the world’s coolest restaurants by Forbes in 2026. This sleek 30-seater offers contemporary Chilean cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. Founded by Chilean chef-couple Francisco Araya and Fernanda Guerrero, Araya provides a unique dining experience that has garnered international acclaim.
Signature Dish: The Ironstrike Knuckle—a 500-gram pork knuckle slow-braised for 12 hours in a blend of Chinese spices, dark soy sauce, five-spice powder, cardamom, and bay leaves, served with mustard jus—is a standout.
2. Sushidan
Address: Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103
Overview: Sushidan brings authentic Tokyo-style sushi to Singapore, offering edomae-style nigiri with fish flown in fresh from Toyosu Market. Their omakase menu is both affordable and exquisite, making high-quality sushi accessible to a broader audience.
Signature Dish: The omakase set, featuring six nigiri pieces, a handroll, chawanmushi, and mini donburi bowls, provides a comprehensive sushi experience.
3. Kantin
Address: Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Boulevard, #05-206/207, Singapore 819666
Overview: Kantin is Singapore’s first Bornean restaurant, focusing on ‘jungle food’—the traditional cuisine of Borneo’s indigenous tribes. Located in Jewel Changi’s glass dome, it offers a unique dining experience overlooking the rain vortex.
Signature Dish: The Headhunter Pansuh Set features slow-cooked chicken in a special broth served in bamboo crockery, accompanied by purple rice wrapped in banana leaves and traditional Bornean sides.
4. DOMO Modern Japanese
Address: Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189560
Overview: Chef Rose Ang returns to Singapore with DOMO, blending traditional Japanese robatayaki grilling with European influences. The menu highlights fresh ingredients and natural umami flavors, offering a modern take on Japanese cuisine.
Signature Dish: The Tuna Tartare with Greek Feta Taco and Lobster Tail Mentaiko Gratin are must-try items that showcase the fusion of flavors.
5. Sugarra
Address: Hotel Michael, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Level 1, Singapore 098269
Overview: Sugarra brings the bold flavors of Spain to Singapore, with Michelin-starred Chef Aitor Jeronimo Orive at the helm. The restaurant focuses on Basque cuisine, using seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both traditional and innovative.
Signature Dish: The menu features a variety of Basque-inspired dishes, each crafted with exceptional techniques and a passion for culinary artistry.
These five restaurants exemplify the dynamic and diverse culinary landscape of Singapore in 2026. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, each offers a unique dining experience that reflects the city’s rich gastronomic heritage and innovative spirit.