10 NEW Romantic Restaurants In Singapore Perfect For Anniversaries & Other Special Occasions

By Rachel Yohannan on 14 Aug 2022

Senior Digital Editor

Crazy cat lady who loves afternoon tea, kawaii Japanese fashion, and all things Sanrio.

Whether it's your first or fifth year together, Valentine's Day and anniversaries are kind of a big deal for most couples. After all, it's always fun to get dressed to the nines and indulge a little during these special occasions. Looking to go all out and impress your sweetheart with a fancy dinner date for your next special celebration? These 10 new romantic restaurants in Singapore are sure to hit the spot with their ambience and quality food.

#1: Hortus - located within GBTB’s Flower Dome

Photo from Hortus

What’s the best way to dine amidst greenery without becoming a hot, sticky mess as a result of our humid weather? Do it indoors, of course! Hortus is a new restaurant located within Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome, which means you get to admire vibrant blooms and enjoy comfortable 20°C temperatures.

Photo from Hortus

You won’t have to get sweaty during the journey either, because there’ll be a special limousine buggy service for you to roll up in style like the true VIPs you are. This ride service runs every 10 minutes, and is exclusive to patrons of Hortus. On top of that, you’ll get complimentary access to the Flower Dome, which will allow you to end off your date with a romantic after-meal stroll.

Photo from @vivianmok_ via Instagram

You would think that prices here would be sky high, but they’re surprisingly manageable given the location and ambience. A Wanderer Striploin Steak from the wood grill costs $45, while Lamb Tagine costs $28. They also serve afternoon tea sets at $55/person, with a mix of 10 sweet and savoury items, classic scones, and your choice of tea and coffee.

Photo from @anita.yeo via Instagram

Hortus
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, #01-09 Level 2 Flower Dome, Singapore 018953
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday: 10am - 9pm (Closed on Tuesday)
Telephone: 6702 0158
Website

#2: Claudine Restaurant - French cuisine in an old chapel

Photo from Hosanna Swee @hforhozzie

The White Rabbit has bade us goodbye, but in its place comes the opening of Claudine Restaurant, also under The Lo & Behold Group. Now, this isn’t merely a case of a name change and slightly altered menu, for it’s a whole new concept altogether. Even the old chapel that it’s housed in has gotten a refresh, incorporating more modern elements while preserving the original beauty of its curlicue windows and stained glass.

Photo from Claudine Restaurant

Helmed by a French chef who’s also the co-founder of Odette, Claudine serves up traditional French fare with comforting home-cooked flavour. Many patrons have had praises for the Vol-Au-Vent ($58), a large buttery pastry filled with sweetbread, morels, cockscomb, and quenelle. Other mains include the Steak Tartare à la Parisienne ($52) and Pumpkin Ravioli ($48) with butternut, black trumpet & pistachio vinaigrette and aged parmesan.

Photo from Claudine Restaurant

Photo from Hosanna Swee @hforhozzie

Reservations are open as early as 60 days in advance, which is telling of how highly sought-after a seat here is. They’re currently fully booked on 14th February 2022, but couples who are celebrating Valentine’s during the weekend can still vie for spots on the 12th or 13th (still available at time of writing).

Photo from Hosanna Swee @hforhozzie

Claudine Restaurant
Address: 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541
Opening hours: 11.45am - 2pm, 6pm - 9/30pm
Telephone: 6265 2966
Website

#3: Here Kitty Kitty - seductive speakeasy inspired by retro Shinjuku

Photo from Here Kitty Kitty

With its dim lighting, oriental screens and drapes, and red lanterns, Here Kitty Kitty might bring to mind a vice den. Well, guess what, that’s exactly what the Zouk Group intended when they conceptualised this seductive speakeasy, inspired by the colourful debauchery of retro Shinjuku in the 1950’s. Quite a far cry from the usual muted zen interiors one would expect from a Japanese-style eatery, we must say, but that just makes it all the more enticing.

Photo from Here Kitty Kitty

Don’t worry, this isn’t one of those lup sup drinking holes with questionable shenanigans going on underneath the table. In fact, it’s quite the elegant establishment - one you’d want to don your best LBD and stilettos for - and is perfect for couples looking for an intimate date night out with a dose of eclecticism to further spice things up.

Photo from @mayveees via Instagram

Mimicking the alleys of olden Tokyo, it’s like a mini maze in itself, full of narrow pathways that bring a different surprise at every corner. Sit in the spacious main bar area, or make a special booking for one of three private themed hideaways: Cathouse, Mamasan Lounge, and Shibari Room - the last of which even has ropes dangling cheekily from the ceiling. We’ll leave you to put two and two together.

Photo from Here Kitty Kitty

The food menu mainly comprises of Japanese-style tapas like Cheesy Bacon Shiitake Kushiyaki ($14), Golden Fries with Uni Dip ($14), and Fugu & Ehire Shioyaki ($16), which is dried pufferfish with stingray fin and spicy mayo. Craving some solid meat stacks? Go for the Wagyu Sando ($68) which comes with caviar as part of the filling.

Photo from Here Kitty Kitty

Of course, the stars of the show are their artisanal Japanese-inspired cocktails such as the fruity Okinawan Summer ($24), sweet sakura-infused Cherry Blossom ($26), and refreshing Roku Smash ($24).

Here Kitty Kitty
Address: 3E River Valley Road, #02-01 The Cannery @ Clarke Quay, , Singapore 179024
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 6pm - 11pm
Telephone: 9489 8357
Website

#4: Canchita - Peruvian cuisine in a forest oasis

Photo from Canchita

When you hear that a restaurant is located at Dempsey, you know it’s gonna be good stuff. Peruvian restaurant Canchita hits all the expectations and more, with bold Latin flavours cooked up by a Preuvian-Mexican husband and wife duo. Pick a spot in their Amazon Room which directly faces the greenery outside, and you’ll feel like you’re dining right in a tranquil forest oasis.

Photo from Canchita

There’s also the Inka Room, which is where their Ceviche Bar is located. Tuck into dishes like charcoal-grilled Octopus a la Brasa ($35), Mexican Tacos (from $18), and Sudado Amarillito ($34), a special Peruvian “fisherman soup” with clams, corn cider, and yellow chilli.

Photo from Canchita

Canchita
Address: 9A & 9B Dempsey Road, Singapore 247698
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 5:30 -10pm | Saturday & Sunday: 12pm - 3.30pm, 6pm - 10pm (Closed on Monday)
Telephone: 8028 1994
Website

#5: Picotin Waterboat House - rooftop dining with views of the bay

Photo from Picotin Waterboat House

Frou frou restaurants with dress codes aren’t everyone’s thing, and if you’re a couple who prefers a more casual setting, you’ll love the laid-back vibes at Picotin Waterboat House - which offers sweeping views of the Fullerton Bay area from their breezy open-air rooftop deck.

Photo from Picotin Waterboat House

There’s nothing like food to bring a pair of lovebirds closer together, so get their 12’ thin-crust pizza to share, with over 13 flavours to choose from. These start from an affordable $18 for a Mustang (tomato, mozzarella, basil), and go up to $28 for a meaty Bronco, topped with mozzarella, spicy beef, pepperoni, bacon, and tandoori chicken.

Photo from @aperolspritzsg via Instagram

Alternatively, “Lady and the Tramp” it with some Aglio Olio ($18) and Carbonara ($22), or feed each other bar snacks like crispy Poppin Shrimps ($20) and Scallops ($22) under the moonlight.

Photo from Picotin Waterboat House

Those who wish to be away from the rest of the crowd can opt for a seat by the side of the building, which has a more intimate environment with the same al fresco views. There’s also an indoor dining area in case the weather gets awry.

Picotin Waterboat House
Address: 3 Fullerton Road, #03-01 Waterboat House, Singapore 049215
Opening hours: Monday & Tuesday: 5pm - 11pm | Wednesday to Sunday: 11am - 11pm
Telephone: 6592 6674
Website

#6: Rosemead - in a gorgeous high-ceilinged 1930’s building

Photo from Rosemead

Housed in a gorgeous 1930’s Neoclassical building near Raffles Place MRT station is Rosemead, a modern Californian restaurant named after the chef’s hometown in Los Angeles. That should give you a clue as to what’s on their menu - modern Californian nosh.

Photo from Rosemead

This is a fine-dining establishment, so don’t expect regalar LA-style street food like sushi burritos. But in true Californian nature, you can anticipate great diversity in flavours with influences from various cultures, as well as an emphasis on freshness and seasonal ingredients - and that includes locally-grown produce as well.

Photo from Rosemead

Because of the seasonal nature of ingredients used, the menu constantly gets a refresh based on what’s available at any particular time. Some examples include Swordtip Squid with Mussels and Green Chili Harissa and Slow Cooked Kagoshima Wagyu Short Rib ($65), made using 100% grass-fed beef from New Zealand. Check out their Valentine’s Day 2022 set menu here.

Photo from Rosemead

Rosemead
Address: 19 Cecil Street, Singapore 049704
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 6pm - 10pm
Telephone: 9781 9084
Website

#7: Restaurant Eclipse - European-Asian fine-dining

Photo from Restaurant Eclipse

The old Yue Hwa building is probably where you’d least expect to find a swanky restaurant, but its top floor is exactly where Restaurant Eclipse lies. Step in and be greeted by opulent gilded walls and plush red armchairs. True to their moniker, they also have some celestial elements as part of their decor, with a dreamy cloud-like netting across the ceiling illuminated by round bulbs, and a moon lamp on each table.

Photo from Restaurant Eclipse

The cuisine here is a fusion of European and Asian, with mains like Iberico Pork Collar ($38) with miso garlic and baba ganoush, and Local Farmed Barramundi ($36) with potato clam puree and black vinegar with chilli oil. For an unconventional dessert full of texture, try their Orh Nee Mille Feuille ($15) with coconut ice cream and taro mousse. Set meals start from $65 for 3 courses.

Photo from Restaurant Eclipse

There’s also an outdoor patio area lined with potted plants, with garden umbrellas providing shade on hot afternoons.

Photo from Restaurant Eclipse

Restaurant Eclipse
Address: 70 Eu Tong Sen St, #06-01 Yue Hwa Building, Singapore 059805
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 12pm - 2pm, 6pm - 10.30pm (Closed on Monday)
Telephone: 6908 0880
Website

#8: Blu Kouzina Siglap - rustic Santorini vibes

Photo from Blu Kouzina

Blu Kouzina has been around for years now, but their newly-opened Siglap outlet is still worth a mention for its Santorini-esque decor that’ll take you on a mini trip to Greece - sans airplane riddle. Though it has a similar blue and white colour scheme as the Dempsey branch, there’s more rattan furniture and earthy-toned wall art that brings about a more rustic vibe.

Photo from @chloeang_ via Instagram

We suggest making a reservation at one of the bay window sofa seats for maximum cosiness. There are also little semi-open alcoves in nooks around the restaurant for more privacy.

Photo from Blu Kouzina

It’s not just the ambience that’s authentic; Being owned by actual Greeks, and having most of their ingredients directly imported from Greece itself, this is the real deal through and through. In fact, the Extra Virgin Olive Oil used to cook all their food is from their very own cultivation in Greece.

Photo from @tiffanyjhns via Instagram

Not to be missed are their wholesome dips like Hummus ($16.80), Tirokafteri ($17.80), and Tzatziki ($16.80), which are best enjoyed as a shared variety. Meat-lovers can consider splitting a Meat Platter ($58.80) of lamb meatballs, beef kalamaki, organic chicken skewer, and 2 lamb chops, before ending things on a sweet note with the must-try Baklava ($15.80) or Kunafe ($15.80).

Photo from Blu Kouzina

Blu Kouzina Siglap
Address: 907 East Coast Rd, #01-01, Singapore 459107
Opening hours: 8.30am - 3.30pm, 5.30pm - 10pm daily
Telephone: 9101 0681
Website

#9: Le Jardin - pet-friendly garden restaurant

Photo from @emeiffel via Instagram

Le Jardin literally translates to “the garden” from French, and this European-style restaurant atop Fort Canning sure lives up to its name. By the same people behind Cafe de Nicole’s Flower, this scenic hillside spot is ideal for paw-rents who love including their furkids as part of their dates, as their al fresco area is pet-friendly. After all, “love me, love my dog” is the way to go.

Photo from Le Jardin

Other than mains like steak and Forest Mushroom Tagliatelle ($20), as well as brunch items like Fig & Salted Caramel French Toast ($21.90), there are plenty of drinks with amazing presentation. Some of them even look like magical potions!

Photo from @kaylacys via Instagram

While the outdoor zone is calming for the mind, the indoor space has a grand jungle-like appearance, with a hint of Victorian flair. Hanging alongside royal-looking chandeliers are vines draped across the ceiling, complementing the botanical-themed wallpaper that’s jazzed up with gold curlicue mirrors.

Photo from Le Jardin

Le Jardin
Address: 5 Cox Terrace, Level 2 Fort Canning Arts Centre, Singapore 179620
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm
Telephone: 8338 8281
Website

#10: Bedrock Origin - steaks and seafood at Sentosa

Photo from Bedrock Origin

While Bedrock Bar & Grill at Somerset has more masculine, brooding interiors, their new sister outlet Bedrock Origin at sunny Sentosa has brighter tones of sea green, white, and light wood making up the colour scheme. Both restaurants serve up smoky steaks and seafood, but they do have different menus, so it’s an entirely new experience altogether!

Photo from Bedrock Origin

Savour some Turbot on the Bone ($68), 3 Cheese Ravioli ($32), or go all out with their range of applewood fire grill steaks including USDA Prime Tenderloin ($98) and Japanese Aged Keisan Wagyu Striploin ($138). Their set lunch is quite a steal, with 2-course meals at $32 and 3-course meals from $38.

Photo from Bedrock Origin

Bedrock Origin
Address: 23 Beach View, #01-02 Oasia Resort Sentosa Hotel, Palawan Ridge, Singapore 098679
Opening hours: 7am - 11am, 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10.30pm daily
Telephone: 6818 3333
Website