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Singapore has cemented its global reputation as a “city in a garden,” achieving a coveted spot among the top 10 nature-focused urban centers worldwide. A new 2026 ranking, released by travel specialists Iglu Cruise, highlights cities that seamlessly integrate natural elements into their daily operational and structural fabric—treating greenery not as an amenity, but as a core urban utility. Amidst densely built and compact environments, Singapore’s success underscores a commitment to accessible green spaces, robust air quality, and widespread urban flora, positioning it uniquely alongside long-established green capitals like Oslo and Vienna.

The ranking, based on Iglu Cruise’s proprietary Green City Index, comes in response to rising global demand for locations that prioritize pedestrian comfort, livability, and enhanced quality of life. Released in early February, the index analyzed three primary criteria to determine a city’s position: the overall volume of urban greenery, the accessibility and distribution of public green spaces, and prevailing air quality metrics.

Building Greenery into Dense Urban Landscapes

Singapore’s placement on the nature-first list is particularly notable given its status as one of the most space-constrained and intensively developed cities globally. The city-state’s strategy of “going upwards” when ground space is limited—integrating rooftop gardens and vertical greenery—illustrates its inventive approach to conservation and accessibility.

Unlike many high-density metropolises where parks are often designated destinations, Singapore incorporates green corridors and neighborhood parks directly into residential and commercial zones. This ensures that the majority of residents are located just minutes away from a significant patch of foliage or a public recreational area, a key factor addressed by the index’s measure of accessibility.

This strategic blending of the built and natural environment allows Singapore to compete with cities boasting far larger geographical footprints. The methodology recognizes cities that consciously design their infrastructure around ecological principles, fostering environments that are less overwhelming and more comfortable for residents and visitors alike.

The Global Nature-First List

Singapore’s impressive showing places it in elite company, reflecting a global shift toward sustainable urban development. Earning the eighth spot on the list, the city-state trails other green champions, many of which are European capitals known for their extensive parks and established low-density planning.

According to the 2026 methodology published by Iglu Cruise, the top 10 nature-first cities are:

• Oslo, Norway
• Vilnius, Lithuania
• Helsinki, Finland
• Vienna, Austria
• Canberra, Australia
• Sydney, Australia
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Singapore
• Reading, United Kingdom
• Munich, Germany

Actionable Takeaways for Sustainable Living

For residents and travelers seeking to maximize the benefits of Singapore’s commitment to green living, the ranking validates exploring the city through its numerous natural pathways. Key features driving Singapore’s success are readily apparent, offering useful lifestyle elements:

• Explore Green Corridors: Take advantage of the city’s extensive network of park connectors that link residential areas to major urban parks like Marsiling Park. These corridors facilitate walking and cycling, reducing reliance on motorized transport.
• Embrace Vertical Gardens: Seek out the city’s rooftop gardens and innovative vertical installations on buildings, which contribute significantly to the index’s calculation of total urban greenery.
• Prioritize Walkability: The ranking underscores Singapore’s success in creating comfortable, breathable urban spaces, encouraging the public to engage in daily activities on foot.

Singapore’s high rank serves as a powerful model for other dense cities struggling to balance rapid development with environmental stewardship. As global concerns about climate change and urban health escalate, prioritizing nature integration is rapidly becoming the benchmark for true metropolitan success.

Singapore audiences are set to welcome back one of the nation’s most successful musical theatre exports, Nathania Ong, who will star as Elle Woods in the Singapore Repertory Theatre’s (SRT) upcoming production of Legally Blonde – The Musical. Opening July 29, 2026, this staging marks a highly anticipated homecoming for the performer, who returns to a familiar role on local soil after establishing herself in major international productions. The SRT rendition promises a fresh perspective on the bubbly and resilient protagonist, emphasizing her intellect and agency within a significantly Asian-centric cast, yet retaining the beloved musical’s original American setting.

Global Talent Returns for Local Spotlight

Nathania Ong’s casting as Elle Woods cements the production’s high-profile status. Before returning to Singapore, Ong secured coveted leading roles in London’s prestigious West End, positioning her among a small coterie of Singaporean artists who have headlined global-scale musicals. Her résumé includes significant roles such as Éponine in Les Misérables and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton, showcasing her versatility and international appeal.

While many associate Legally Blonde with its famously pink aesthetic and comedic elements, the musical—originally based on the Amanda Brown novel and subsequent film—tells a powerful story of underestimated intelligence and self-belief. It follows Elle Woods, a fashion major facing systemic prejudice, as she fights her way into Harvard Law School. The narrative is underpinned by themes of female solidarity, unexpected trust, and perseverance against the odds.

A New Interpretation of a Trusted Favorite

SRT’s production, directed by Kate Golledge and supported by a seasoned West End creative team, aims to deepen the exploration of Elle’s character. The choice to cast a predominantly Asian ensemble, while maintaining the show’s original narrative setting, offers a compelling new dynamic.

The creative team intends to shine a brighter spotlight on Elle’s smarts and capacity for leadership rather than focusing purely on the glitz and humor. Ong highlights that anchoring Elle Woods within an Asian ensemble provides an exciting, fresh lens, underscoring how the musical’s overarching themes of defying expectations and ambition resonate universally, extending beyond the story’s initial Western context.

The musical features high-energy, infectious songs by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, including perennial fan favorites like “Omigod You Guys” and “So Much Better.” Since its 2007 debut, the show has consistently delighted audiences worldwide, and this 2026 staging assures a contemporary and culturally enriching experience.

Performance Schedule and Ticketing

Legally Blonde – The Musical officially begins its run on July 29, 2026. Performances are scheduled Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8 p.m., with matinee showings available on Saturdays at 2 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets for the production can be purchased directly through the Singapore Repertory Theatre’s website (http://www.srt.com.sg). Notably, patrons are able to utilize their SG Culture Pass credits toward ticket purchases. Theatre enthusiasts seeking dynamic, high-quality international-standard performances infused with local talent should secure their tickets early for this eagerly anticipated return to the local stage.

Singapore solidified its reputation as a global urban oasis, earning a spot among the top 10 nature-first cities worldwide in a recent ranking published by travel experts at Iglu Cruise. Released in early February, the index highlights cities that ingeniously integrate natural elements into their fundamental operational structure, responding to growing traveler demand for comfortable, walkable, and health-conscious urban environments. Despite its high population density and compact physical size, the city-state secured the eighth position globally, demonstrating that thoughtful, innovative incorporation of green infrastructure can prevail even in space-constrained locales.

Analyzing Singapore’s Green Urban Strategy

The ranking, based on Iglu Cruise’s new Green City Index, moves beyond mere aesthetics, focusing instead on urban design that prioritizes well-being and environmental health. The index evaluates three critical metrics to determine a city’s “nature-first” status: total amount of urban greenery, the accessibility of public parks and open spaces, and local air quality.

While competitors like Oslo and Helsinki benefit from naturally expansive geography, Singapore—a city known for its vertical development—has adopted a proactive strategy to intertwine nature into the built environment. This dedication is visible throughout the island. Green spaces are not isolated features but are intentionally “stitched” into residential and commercial districts.

Instead of treating parks as an afterthought, Singapore embeds them as crucial neighborhood amenities, ensuring most residents are only minutes away from a leafy corridor or public garden. Where traditional ground space is limited, the city actively utilizes vertical surfaces, transforming rooftops and building facades into thriving green spaces. This vertical integration allows Singapore to rival major European and Australian cities in providing accessible, refreshing natural environments.

The Global Shift Toward Biophilic Cities

The creation of the Green City Index reflects a noticeable shift in global sentiment among residents and travelers alike. There is increasing recognition that cities must evolve beyond concrete jungles to actively promote human comfort and ecological balance. Cities that successfully minimize daily overwhelm through improved walkability, clean air, and readily available outdoor space are winning over a modern, more discerning population.

Singapore’s success in this ranking suggests its decades-long effort to be a “City in a Garden” is paying measurable dividends. The emphasis on connectivity, as seen in expansive park connectors and shaded walkways, streamlines urban traversal and encourages outdoor activity, directly contributing to higher quality of life scores.

Top 10 Nature-First Cities (Iglu Cruise 2026)

The full ranking demonstrates a strong performance by Northern European capitals, underscoring their commitment to sustainable urban development:

• Oslo, Norway
• Vilnius, Lithuania
• Helsinki, Finland
• Vienna, Austria
• Canberra, Australia
• Sydney, Australia
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Singapore
• Reading, United Kingdom
• Munich, Germany

Maintaining the Green Edge

Achieving the ranking is only part of the challenge; maintaining it requires continuous investment in sustainable infrastructure and policy. For cities looking to emulate nature-first success, the key takeaways involve comprehensive urban planning that mandates green space integration—not just as decoration, but as essential infrastructure. Singapore serves as a powerful case study for densely populated areas globally, proving that high growth and ecological health can be mutually reinforcing goals. Continued focus on improving air quality and maximizing vertical greenery will be vital to keeping the island competitive in future international green standards.

Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) is set to stage the internationally beloved musical Legally Blonde, featuring a homecoming performance by one of the nation’s most celebrated musical theatre talents. Nathania Ong has been cast as the iconic lead, Elle Woods, marking her return to the local stage after achieving significant success overseas. The production, premiering in July 2026, promises a fresh, locally influenced take on the story of empowerment and defying expectations, led by a largely Asian cast.

A Global Talent Returns Home

Ong’s casting represents a major coup for Singaporean theatre. Recognized widely on the global stage, the performer is among a select few Asian artists who have held leading roles in major West End productions. Her repertoire includes notable turns as Éponine in Les Misérables and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton. Taking on the role of Elle Woods allows Ong to revisit her roots, bringing immense international experience to a local audience.

While Legally Blonde – The Musical often conjures images of pink, glitter, and collegiate comedy, the SRT production aims to showcase the deeper themes underpinning the narrative. The show tells the compelling story of Elle Woods, who overcomes systemic underestimation and prejudice through sheer intelligence and resilience. Supported by unexpected female friendships built on mutual trust, Elle’s journey is one of agency and success in a challenging environment.

Director Kate Golledge, supported by a top-tier West End creative team, plans to put a greater spotlight on Elle’s intelligence rather than focusing solely on the glamor and humor.

Highlighting Universal Themes with a New Perspective

The musical, with its catchy, high-energy score by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin (featuring favorites such as “Omigod You Guys” and “So Much Better”), has captivated audiences since 2007. However, SRT’s interpretation adds a modern, regional layer to the production.

Distinctively, the production features a predominantly Asian ensemble, though the setting remains the original American university environment. This deliberate casting choice, according to Ong, injects a fresh perspective into the familiar storyline. It underscores how the musical’s core themes—breaking stereotypes, fighting for recognition, and female solidarity—transcend Western contexts and resonate universally.

The integration of an Asian cast into a traditionally Western narrative not only showcases the depth of talent within the region but also allows Singaporean audiences to connect with the material in a more profound way. This creative decision reinforces the message that Elle’s journey to prove her worth is relatable regardless of cultural background.

Performance Dates and Ticketing

Legally Blonde – The Musical is scheduled to run starting July 29, 2026.

Performance Schedule:

• Tuesday to Saturday: 8 p.m.
• Saturday Matinee: 2 p.m.
• Sunday Shows: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are available for purchase directly through the Singapore Repertory Theatre website ([http://www.srt.com.sg]). Patrons may also utilize their SG Culture Pass credits for ticket acquisition. This production serves as an exciting opportunity to witness a world-class talent perform on home soil, offering a timely and insightful theatrical experience for the community.

Singapore’s vibrant dining landscape is set to lose a critically acclaimed favorite: Lolla, the modern Mediterranean institution nestled on Ann Siang Hill, has announced it will permanently close its doors. After 14 years of operation, the intimate eatery, known for its small-plate emphasis and impressive culinary accolades, confirmed that its final service will take place on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026—offering regulars one last romantic farewell.

The news, shared via the restaurant’s Instagram profile yesterday, marks another significant closure in a hyper-competitive local market. Lolla first opened in 2012 and quickly fostered a devoted following, earning recognition from the Michelin Guide and landing a prestigious spot on the Asia’s Best Restaurants 2024 list. Despite this industry recognition and apparent success, the establishment offered no public explanation for its impending exit.

Staff Face Unexpected Job Transition

The closure announcement has created immediate disruption for Lolla’s internal team. Reports indicate that staff members were instructed to begin searching for new employment in January, with official confirmation of the closure coming just days before the Instagram post. Furthermore, a restaurant executive confirmed that employees will be receiving a reduced final salary package, adding concern for those affected by the sudden transition. This situation highlights the fragile nature of the hospitality industry, even for highly rated establishments.

A Look Back at Lolla’s Culinary Legacy

Over the past decade and a half, Lolla defined itself through high-quality seasonal ingredients and innovative Mediterranean flavors. The menu encouraged communal dining and offered signature dishes that became immediate classics in Singapore’s sophisticated food scene.

For those planning a final supper before the 2026 closing date, there are several “non-negotiable” items that defined the Lolla experience:

• Sea Urchin Pudding: Widely regarded as the restaurant’s most celebrated dish, this savory creation exemplifies their adventurous yet refined approach.
• Toasted Sourdough with Kombu Butter: A simple yet unforgettable pairing that sets the tone for the meal.
• Heirloom Tomato with Burratina: A testament to the focus on fresh, pure ingredients, offering a perfect balance of acidity and creaminess.
• Lemon Curd Doughnuts: While the dessert menu always impressed, these light, tart pillows stand out as the ultimate sweet finish.

The grilled octopus and Iberico pork collar are also solid recommendations that showcase the kitchen’s mastery over proteins and traditional cooking techniques. Given the extended lead time before the final service, reservations are expected to fill up rapidly as diners seek to revisit their favorites. Potential visitors are strongly advised to secure their bookings online promptly.

Context in Singapore’s Dining Scene

Lolla’s closure is symptomatic of the ongoing volatility within Singapore’s food and beverage sector. Even as new establishments continually open, older, respected venues sometimes succumb to rising operational costs, manpower challenges, or shifts in consumer behavior. The announcement serves as a reminder that critical acclaim does not always guarantee long-term financial viability in this competitive environment. Diners and industry observers will be watching closely to see what, if any, future concept will occupy the prime Ann Siang Hill space.

Singaporean theatre sensation Nathania Ong is set to make a triumphant return to the local stage, taking on the iconic role of Elle Woods in the upcoming Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) production of Legally Blonde – The Musical. Slated to debut on July 29, 2026, this staging marks a significant homecoming for one of the nation’s most globally recognized musical performers, providing audiences a chance to see her acclaimed talent anchored by an predominantly Asian cast.

Ong’s casting follows a stellar international career, positioning her among an elite cohort of Singaporean artists who have headlined major global productions. She is instantly recognizable to West End fans, having recently starred as Éponine in Les Misérables and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton. Her transition to the upbeat, highly demanding role of Elle Woods at SRT promises a fresh take on the beloved 2007 musical.

Beyond Pink and Glitter: A Focus on Agency

While the musical is often associated with its vibrant aesthetic and comedic elements, the new SRT production, directed by Kate Golledge and supported by a seasoned West End creative team, aims to deepen the narrative’s focus. The revival emphasizes Elle Woods’ intelligence, resilience, and agency, highlighting her journey as she navigates and ultimately dismantles a system designed to underestimate her. The production illuminates the power of unexpected female alliances built on trust and mutual support.

This approach aligns with the compelling score by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, featuring high-energy numbers like “Omigod You Guys” and “So Much Better.” By spotlighting Elle’s tenacity over mere glamour, SRT intends to provide a nuanced interpretation that resonates beyond the surface laughs.

The Asian Reworking

A key feature of this staging is the deliberately cast largely Asian company. Although the narrative maintains its original collegiate setting, the diverse ensemble imbues the storyline with a new cultural perspective.

For Nathania Ong, the decision to feature an Asian-majority cast significantly enhances the musical’s core themes. It underscores the universal relevance of Legally Blonde’s message—that intelligence and determination triumph over prejudice—allowing the story to truly transcend its foundational Western context.

“Having Elle Woods in a largely Asian cast adds a fresh dynamic and highlights how the musical’s themes work beyond its Western context,” Ong remarked, emphasizing the enduring power of the story to speak to audiences globally.

Legally Blonde Performance Details

Legally Blonde – The Musical opens on Friday, July 29, 2026. Performances are scheduled Tuesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., with matinees on Saturday at 2 p.m. and two shows on Sunday, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are available for purchase directly via the Singapore Repertory Theatre website and may be purchased using SG Culture Pass credits, offering a valuable pathway for local residents to access this high-calibre production.

The return of a performer of Ong’s caliber serves as both a cultural milestone and a testament to the rising international profile of Singaporean theatre talent. It promises a dynamic, thoughtful revisiting of a classic musical that speaks powerfully to contemporary issues of identity, perseverance, and empowerment.

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Singapore’s vibrant dining scene is losing a modern Mediterranean favorite: Lolla, the acclaimed restaurant on Ann Siang Hill, is preparing to close its doors permanently. After 14 years of service, earning both local loyal patrons and international recognition, the establishment announced its final service will take place on February 14, 2026. This unexpected closure adds to a growing list of beloved local institutions ceasing operations, even as new ventures continue to open across the city-state.

Modern Mediterranean Destination Signs Off

Since its launch in 2012, Lolla quickly carved out a niche for its intimate, convivial atmosphere and refined, ingredient-focused cuisine. The restaurant achieved significant industry recognition, earning a spot on the prestigious Asia’s Best Restaurants 2024 list and being included in the Michelin Guide for the first time just last year. Its sustained excellence cemented its status as a cornerstone of Singapore’s high-end casual dining landscape.

However, the team broke the news to the public on Instagram recently, sharing gratitude for years of patronage but providing no specific reason for the decision. The closure appears to have been swift, catching some staff members by surprise. Employees informed Channel NewsAsia that they were instructed to begin job hunting in January, with official confirmation of the closure coming just days before the public notice. Furthermore, a restaurant executive noted that employees would receive a reduced final salary package.

Must-Try Dishes Before Lolla Closes

With the closure set for Valentine’s Day 2026, diners still have time to secure a final reservation and savor Lolla’s most celebrated plates. For those planning a farewell meal, certain dishes are considered essential experiences that exemplify the restaurant’s culinary identity.

Signature Dishes to Order:

• Sea Urchin Pudding: Widely considered Lolla’s defining dish, this creation is a requisite order for first-timers and return visitors alike.
• Heirloom Tomato with Burratina: A testament to the restaurant’s focus on high-quality produce, providing a balance of sweetness and freshness.
• Toasted Sourdough with Kombu Butter: An indispensable starter, the house-made kombu butter offers a distinct, savory umami note.

Beyond the classics, the menu also features high-caliber savory cuts like the well-regarded grilled octopus and the flavorful Iberico pork collar. While the dessert menu is consistently strong, the lemon curd doughnuts stand out as an ideal way to conclude the Mediterranean meal.

Securing Your Reservation

The demand for tables is expected to surge now that the final date is public knowledge. Given Lolla’s relatively small size and high reputation, interested diners are strongly advised to make reservations well in advance through the restaurant’s online booking portal.

The closure of an establishment as critically acclaimed as Lolla highlights the persistent challenges facing Singapore’s competitive fine-dining sector, whether driven by escalating operating costs, labor issues, or shifts in consumer behavior. While the culinary landscape is constantly evolving, the departure of a 14-year veteran leaves a notable void and serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of the hospitality industry.

The speculation is finally over: Critically acclaimed Japanese-American singer-songwriter Mitski will bring her emotionally resonant live performance back to Singapore in July 2026. The highly anticipated one-night-only show, slated for The Star Theatre on July 21, 2026, supports her forthcoming eighth studio album, Nothing’s About to Happen to Me, and forms part of her massive global trek encompassing stops across Asia. Fans eager to experience the artist known for her deeply affecting lyrics should prepare for a frenzied ticket rush starting this February.

Mitski, who has captivated a global audience with her powerful, often poignant examinations of identity, love, and isolation, recently fueled widespread anticipation after teasing her world tour on social media platforms. The official confirmation marks her return to the city-state following a series of regional dates that include the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

The Powerhouse Behind the Hits

Since her debut, Mitski Miyawaki has cultivated a formidable catalog recognized for its viral success and raw emotional sincerity. Her ability to synthesize complex feelings into compelling rock and indie-pop anthems has cemented her status as one of her generation’s most influential songwriters.

Her music has found immense traction online, with tracks often dominating discussion and streaming charts. Hits like “Nobody,”, “Your Best American Girl,” and “First Love / Late Spring” have become internet staples. Most recently, her 2024 single “My Love Mine All Mine” broke barriers, organically climbing into the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, illustrating her sustained crossover appeal beyond the independent music scene.

The impending album, Nothing’s About to Happen to Me, is scheduled for release on February 27, setting the stage for a tour that promises to blend both her acclaimed back catalog with fresh material.

Securing Your Seat: Singapore Ticket Information

Given Mitski’s regional popularity, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Prospective concertgoers should note the distinct sale windows.

Presale Opportunity:

To access the priority booking window, fans must sign up for the Now/Live mailing list before the deadline of 10 p.m. on February 11. Presale codes will be distributed via email by 8 a.m. the following day.

• Presale Start: February 12 at 10 a.m.
• Presale End: February 13 at 9 a.m.

General Public Sales:

For those who miss the presale window, general tickets will be made available through the official vendor, Sistic. It is highly advisable to set up an account beforehand to expedite the purchase process.

• General Sales Start: February 13 at 10 a.m.
• Booking Platform: Sistic

Tickets for her previous Asian stops have been difficult to secure, emphasizing the need for timely registration and preparation ahead of the Singapore sale dates. Her July 2026 performance at The Star Theatre will undoubtedly serve as a cathartic and unforgettable cornerstone of the year’s live music calendar, offering fans a crucial connection point with one of the industry’s most introspective voices.

Chinese New Year celebrations traditionally center on lavish reunion dinners, symbolizing prosperity and kinship. This year, Martell returns to Singapore’s elite culinary scene with the second iteration of “Flavours of Martell,” an exclusive gastronomic event uniting premium cognac with traditional Chinese cuisine. Running from February 4 to March 3, 2026, the limited-edition experience features custom menus at three esteemed Cantonese dining establishments: Peach Blossoms, Summer Palace, and Royal China, showcasing how Martell’s Cordon Bleu and XXO expressions can introduce unexpected depth and warmth to festive dishes.

This special pairing follows a successful pilot in late 2025, moving beyond cognac as a mere after-dinner digestif. Instead, the luxurious spirit is consciously integrated into savory and sweet courses, enhancing time-honored recipes through subtle infusion and thoughtful application.

Exploring Innovative Cognac Pairings

The participating restaurants each offer a distinct interpretation of this unique culinary challenge, reflecting their individual styles and expertise.

At Peach Blossoms, the award-winning Cantonese institution located within PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, the focus is on modern interpretations of classic flavors. Their seven-course Prosperous Feast places cognac center stage. Notable highlights include amaebi (sweet shrimp) served alongside a delicate Martell Cordon Bleu jelly, and a luxurious double-boiled coral trout soup enriched with both Martell XXO and Chinese yellow wine. The meal concludes with a contemporary dessert featuring Martell XXO ice cream paired with a traditional lotus pastry.

Anchoring Tradition with Subtle Enhancement

In contrast, Summer Palace at Conrad Singapore Orchard, a Michelin-starred stalwart revered for its impeccable, heritage-driven Cantonese technique, adopts a more restrained approach. The restaurant expertly uses Martell XXO to subtly deepen the flavor profile without overshadowing traditional preparation. Guests can savor comforting items such as hot stone-braised bird’s nest and fish maw soup, gently accented with the cognac. Other standouts include braised 18-head South African abalone and steamed lobster prepared with an organic garlic trio. This approach emphasizes enhancement rather than outright fusion.

Meanwhile, Royal China marks its first Chinese New Year at Raffles Sentosa Singapore with a contemporary and refined menu. Known for its polished Cantonese cooking, the restaurant is tempting guests with luxurious selections. Their menu includes braised bird’s nest soup with fresh crab meat enriched with Martell Chanteloup XXO, and roasted Kurobuta char siew paired with a subtle yuzu sauce infused with Martell VSOP. The experience culminates with a dessert of pineapple ice cream and glutinous dumplings laced with Martell Cordon Bleu.

A New Dimension to Festive Dining

The integration of fine French cognac into auspicious Chinese New Year dishes offers diners a novel way to appreciate the symbolic feasting tradition. By incorporating the spirit directly into the preparation, chefs are unlocking new layers of complexity, demonstrating the versatility of high-quality spirits beyond classic beverage pairings. This trend reflects a broader culinary movement toward cross-cultural experimentation and elevated dining experiences during holidays.

Diners interested in experiencing this limited-time menu are highly encouraged to make reservations directly with the participating venues: Peach Blossoms, Summer Palace, and Royal China. Further details on the initiative are available through Martell’s official resources.

In Singapore’s dynamic culinary landscape, Chef Bjorn Shen, the well-known founder of Artichoke and a former MasterChef Singapore judge, has once again defied convention with his latest pop-up concept, Jellyfish Sushi. Located inside Artichoke at the New Bahru complex, this intimate 10-seat venue trades the centuries-old tradition of shari (vinegared rice) for artisanal bread, launching what Shen playfully dubs the “doughmakase.” This experimental format aims to challenge perceptions of raw seafood preparation by exploring how different textures and components of bread can elevate the sushi experience.

A Culinary Experiment in Bread and Fish

Jellyfish Sushi joins Shen’s existing experimental venture, Small’s, as a “restaurant-in-a-restaurant.” While Small’s often serves as an ingredient-led research and development hub—currently featuring a Korean Duck Feast—Jellyfish Sushi focuses its curiosity-driven ethos on raw and lightly treated seafood preparations, mirroring the fluidity suggested by its name. The debut offering is a 12-course menu priced at S$165 per person.

The fundamental question Shen poses with this concept is simple: What happens when bread replaces rice as the primary vehicle for high-quality seafood? Analogous to how a sushi master meticulously tempers shari to complement each cut of fish, Shen’s team precisely pairs various cuts and crusts of bread with traditional omakase ingredients.

The unconventional pairing, while surprising in a dedicated sushi format, draws parallels with open-face seafood traditions globally, from Danish smørrebrød to Dutch broodje haring. The “doughmakase” begins traditionally, with starters like rice-less salmon maki, before introducing the signature bread sushi.

High Points of the Doughmakase Journey

The integration of bread proved remarkably cohesive, blending textures and flavors in an unexpectedly complementary manner. Early courses successfully set the tone:

• Cured Mackerel: Paired with stracciatella and zucchini, this hand-roll style creation highlighted the successful fusion of rich cheese and savory fish wrapped in nori and soft bread.
• Soy-Marinated Kanpachi: Served atop the dense bottom half of a bread slice much like an open-faced sandwich, this offered a satisfying, firm crunch contrasting with the delicate fish.

One standout dish was the Red Sea Bream, which utilized kombujime—the traditional method of aging fish between sheets of kombu to deepen flavor. Dressed with garlic oil, lemon zest, and layered over a thin, fluffy piece of top crust, the presentation was likened to a savory yu sheng salad.

Focusing on the pinnacle of omakase ingredients, later courses featured variations of tuna. A negitoro and leek preparation used the crunchy side crust, or “rib,” of the bread, while a rich otoro cut, lightly seared and soy-marinated, was served over the firm bottom crust, emphasizing the structural role of the bread.

The meal concluded with a highly acclaimed dish: ultra-chewy, green Awaji Island wakame noodles. Served with two dips, a clean, smoky soba tsuyu broth infused with roasted mackerel bones and charred bread, and a creamy, carbonara-like asari clam potage, the noodles offered a familiar grounding element after a series of conceptual surprises.

Conceptual Ambition and Future Plans

Ultimately, Jellyfish Sushi earns high marks (4/5) for its expertly executed flavors and clever recontextualization of familiar seafood preparations. The concept is less about radical innovation than providing a refreshing, accessible twist on an often-reverent dining style.

While the flavor profiles were universally praised, some might wish for greater emphasis on the bread itself—specifically, a deeper dive into the baking process or the specific types of bread employed to support a menu explicitly titled “doughmakase.”

Bjorn Shen’s experimentation is far from finished. Future iterations of Jellyfish Sushi are expected to push the boundaries further, potentially seeing sushi ingredients served atop completely new foundations. Diners should not be surprised if upcoming menus feature pairings with formats like risotto or Vietnamese summer rolls, ensuring that the “jellyfish” ethos of unpredictability continues to define the dining experience.

Jellyfish Sushi is currently taking reservations and operates Tuesday to Saturday, from 6pm to 10.15pm, at 46 Kim Yam Rd, New Bahru, Artichoke, #01-02, Singapore 239351.