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Residents across Singapore planning to enjoy late-night festive activities on Christmas Eve can breathe a collective sigh of relief, as both SMRT and SBS Transit have confirmed significant extensions to rail and bus services. This move, designed to accommodate the high demand anticipated during the holiday period, ensures that thousands can rely on affordable public transportation well past midnight following celebrations, market visits, or private gatherings on December 24th.

Rail Lines Offer Extended Midnight Runs

The extended operating hours are crucial for navigating Singapore’s bustling corridors during the festive season, alleviating the inevitable surge in demand for taxis and ride-sharing services.

SMRT, which manages the key grid rails, will prolong services on the North-South Line (NSL), East-West Line (EWL), Circle Line (CCL), and Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL). The latest train departure from City Hall Interchange connecting the NSL and EWL is slated for 1:21 am, enabling travelers to reach most residential areas late into the morning. However, commuters should note that services on the Bukit Panjang LRT and the connection to Changi Airport will maintain standard operating times and are not included in the extension.

Similarly, SBS Transit is bolstering its operational schedule. Trains running on the North-East Line (NEL), Downtown Line (DTL), and the connected Sengkang-Punggol LRT will operate approximately 75 minutes later than their usual cutoff times. This extension ensures those participating in events far from the central business district will have practical and timely options for their trip home. Precise final departure timings for all lines can be verified through the Land Transport Authority (LTA) public announcements.

Bus Services Maintain Connectivity

The extension is not limited to the rail network—bus services administered by both major operators will also run later into the night.

SMRT has identified key bus routes that will continue service past midnight. Services including 300, 301, 307, and several others serving residential areas will remain operational, with the very last bus departing the Bukit Panjang interchange as late as 2:25 am.

SBS Transit is extending hours for 19 specific services, including crucial routes such as 60A, 114A, 222, 238, 291, and 410W. These extended timings apply at their respective interchanges before the late-night final closures.

Adding convenience for those finishing work early or heading home before the peak late-night rush, SBS Transit is also adjusting the schedule for an additional 25 express and supplementary bus services. Routes like 10e, 14e, 174e, and numerous others will have their evening trips brought forward. This provides early commuters with more concentrated departure options, smooths traffic flow, and prevents overcrowding on standard services.

Planning Your Late-Night Commute

This collective effort by public transport operators underscores their commitment to supporting public enjoyment during significant national holidays while ensuring safe, reliable, and convenient travel options. With high demand expected across all modes of transport, travelers are advised to incorporate the specific last-train and last-bus timings into their festive plans.

For comprehensive information regarding all extended operational hours, including detailed interchange and departure schedules, commuters should consult the official circulars provided by the LTA. Checking schedules in advance is the simplest way to guarantee a seamless journey home after a night of holiday cheer.

Singapore’s public transportation operators, SMRT and SBS Transit, announced extended train and bus service hours for Christmas Eve, December 24, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy holiday activities, including light displays and late-night gatherings, without the stress of securing costly late-night taxi services. The extension ensures affordable public transit access well past midnight across major rail lines and key bus routes.

Late-Night Transit Options Announced

With crowds expected at holiday markets and private celebrations, officials preemptively addressed the high demand for transport by broadening the operating windows for the island’s comprehensive rail and bus networks. This move aims to facilitate smoother movement across Singapore during this peak festive period.

SMRT Train Extensions

SMRT is extending services on several key lines. The North-South Line, East-West Line, Circle Line, and Thomson-East Coast Line will operate later than usual. The very last train departing from the central City Hall interchange is scheduled for 1:21 a.m. However, commuters utilizing the Bukit Panjang LRT and the Changi Airport Service should plan alternative routes, as those services will not be subject to extended hours.

SBS Transit Adjustments

SBS Transit is also providing significant extensions for its rail services. Trains operating on the North-East Line, the Downtown Line, and the Sengkang-Punggol LRT will run approximately an hour and fifteen minutes later than their standard operating times. Exact final departure times for SBS Transit lines should be verified directly with the operator.

Expanded Bus Services Facilitate Night Travel

Both public transport corporations confirmed that extended operating hours apply not only to the rail network but also to numerous feeder and trunk bus services, ensuring connectivity to residential areas even after train operations cease.

SMRT is extending services for various bus routes, with the latest departure from the Bukit Panjang interchange occurring as late as 2:25 a.m. This includes services such as 300, 301, 302, 307, 983A, 901, 911, 912A, 912B, 913, 920, 922, 973A, 181, 240, 241, 243G, and 974A.

Similarly, SBS Transit is maintaining later schedules for 19 dedicated bus services at their respective interchanges. These late-running routes include 60A, 63M, 114A, 222, 225G, 228, 229, 232, 238, 261, 269, 291, 292, 293, 315, 325, 410W, 804, and 812.

Early Departures for Commuters

In an additional measure to serve commuters finishing work early on Christmas Eve, SBS Transit will advance the departure times for 25 additional bus services that typically cater to peak-hour or express travel. This adjustment, which includes services such as 10e, 14e, 30e, 89e, and various others, provides enhanced flexibility for those opting to leave their workplaces sooner to join holiday festivities.

Planning Your Festive Journey

Commuters planning to utilize these extended services are strongly advised to check the full schedule details provided by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) portal. Verifying the exact last train and bus timings for specific lines and stops is crucial to ensure a smooth journey home. This seasonal adjustment reinforces Singapore’s commitment to providing reliable, accessible transport options, even during major holidays.

As celebratory gatherings, dazzling light displays, and festive markets beckon Singapore residents out late this Christmas Eve, public transport operators SMRT and SBS Transit have confirmed significantly extended train and bus operating hours across the island. This critical service extension aims to alleviate expected high demand for taxis and ride-sharing, providing an affordable and reliable way for revelers to return home well past midnight—with some bus services departing as late as 2:30 a.m.

Riding the Train After Midnight

Both major rail operators are extending schedules dramatically on December 24 to accommodate late-night festive activities.

SMRT Services:
Train services across the majority of the SMRT network will run later than usual. This extension covers the North-South Line, East-West Line, Circle Line, and Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL). Commuters are advised to consult the operator’s specific schedule for final departure times from various interchange stations.

Crucially, those relying on SMRT’s subsidiary lines should note exceptions: the Bukit Panjang LRT and the Changi Airport Service will maintain their standard operating hours and will not be extended.

SBS Transit Services:
Passengers utilizing SBS Transit’s lines can also expect an extension of roughly one hour and fifteen minutes beyond the standard timetable. This applies to trains operating on the:

• North-East Line
• Downtown Line
• Sengkang-Punggol LRT

These extensions ensure smoother travel for thousands participating in communal celebrations and private gatherings across areas served by the purple and blue lines.

Comprehensive Bus Extensions for Festive Nights

In addition to extended rail access, both transport companies are scheduling later trips for several key bus feeder services, ensuring connectivity from major transport hubs to residential estates.

SMRT Bus Services:
A substantial number of SMRT bus services will run past midnight, connecting passengers from train stations to their final destinations. For instance, services originating from the Bukit Panjang interchange, including routes such as 300, 301, 302, 307, 983A, 901, 911, and 912A, feature extended schedules, with the final departure from Bukit Panjang scheduled at 2:25 a.m.

SBS Transit Bus Services:
SBS Transit is also boosting late-night connectivity by extending 19 bus services at their respective interchanges, including high-traffic routes such as 60A, 63M, 114A, 222, 225G, 228, 229, 232, and 238.

Adjusting to Early Departures

Recognizing that many offices and businesses permit an early dismissal on Christmas Eve, SBS Transit has also scheduled 25 bus services to run earlier in the evening. This adjustment includes express services (identified by the ‘e’ suffix, such as 10e, 14e, and 30e) and others typically serving commuter routes during standard rush hours. This flexibility ensures that those wrapping up their workday early also have efficient options for starting their holiday celebrations.

For the most precise and detailed departure schedules for all extended SMRT and SBS Transit bus services, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has released a consolidated guide online, which commuters are strongly encouraged to consult before planning their routes.

These coordinated extensions underscore a commitment to sustainable and accessible travel during peak holiday demand periods, allowing Singaporeans to fully enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere without mobility constraints. Residents are reminded to check final departure times on official transport apps or websites to avoid missing the last connections home.

As 2025 draws to a close, Singapore’s dynamic food and beverage (F&B) industry experienced a year of pronounced contrasts, marked by significant closures, a surge of international brand debuts, the rise of niche “home cafes,” and the cultural omnipresence of matcha. These five defining narratives—identified through industry buzz, consumer sentiment, and close observation—shaped the island nation’s culinary landscape, summarizing a period of structural disruption and remarkable innovation across its diverse dining spectrum, from fine dining to HDB heartlands.

The Contradictory Year: Closures and Global Influx

The most immediate narrative of 2025 was the unsettling frequency of F&B exits, characterized by both disbelief and eventual fatigue among industry observers and consumers. High-profile, successful closures demonstrated the precarious nature of the Singaporean market, even for established players. The complete shuttering of local dining powerhouse Privé Group, alongside the departure of international names like Burger & Lobster and Eggslut, signaled challenging economic headwinds. Even places with critical acclaim were not immune; Singapore bid farewell to several Michelin-starred establishments, confirming that accolades alone do not guarantee sustained business viability.

Industry analysis pointed primarily to escalating rental costs, persistent labor shortages, and evolving consumer spending habits as key drivers behind the closures. Amid the downturn, however, local communities rallied, with social media movements advocating for support of beloved neighborhood joints.

Paradoxically, 2025 was also defined by a substantial influx of first-to-market global F&B brands. Singapore reinforced its reputation as a crucial Southeast Asian launchpad, attracting a consistent stream of international concepts. This trend was particularly evident in Japanese cuisine, with debut openings ranging from casual eateries like Udon Shin to upscale institutions such as Ginza’s Nikuya Tanaka.

Korean entrants, notably the long-standing Gwanghwamun Mijin, also arrived, but perhaps the most culturally pervasive arrival was Australia’s Yo-Chi, which single-handedly revitalized the market for frozen yogurt. This phenomenon underlines Singapore’s status as an attractive, albeit demanding, test market for global expansion.

Hyper-Niche Dining and Foreign Chains Reshape the Market

Two distinct trends emerged at opposite ends of the dining spectrum: the proliferation of micro ‘home cafes’ and the aggressive expansion of major Chinese F&B chains.

The Rise of the Home Cafe

Blurring the lines between residential and commercial, home cafes emerged as a novel, localized trend. Operating out of HDB flats or landed property front yards, these spots—like Kopikhoo and Knead Kopi—provide a quirky, non-traditional dining experience. Their appeal lies in affordability and a unique sense of exclusivity.

Operationally, these low-key enterprises do not require a standard Singapore Food Agency (SFA) operating license, provided they meet strict food safety standards. Given that many are side ventures, their fleeting nature is part of their novelty, offering consumers cost-effective, hyper-local alternatives to established cafes.

Dominance of Chinese Chains

While familiar names like Haidilao and Tanyu remain staples, 2025 witnessed a marked intensification of new Chinese chain entries. These organizations arrived en masse, demonstrating aggressive expansion strategies. Brands such as the Hunanese cuisine specialist Xiang Xiang capitalized on menu efficiency and competitive pricing.

The influx also encompassed quick-service beverages and desserts, with Luckin Coffee and tea purveyor Chagee becoming ubiquitous across commercial centers. These newcomers, along with budget-friendly options like Mixue, have introduced new styles of regional Chinese cuisine and commercial efficiencies that are poised to maintain their market dominance.

Matcha Moves Beyond Trend Status

Finally, the cultural integration of matcha transitioned from a temporary trend into a deeply embedded fixture of Singaporean food culture. Despite supply chain disruptions earlier in the year, matcha’s evolution expanded beyond standard lattes. Consumers embraced inventive, flavored combinations—from strawberry and mango twists to unconventional blends like maple earl grey.

This surge sparked lively debates among enthusiasts, polarizing them into purists who favor koicha (thick tea) versus those who engage with milk-based concoctions. The widespread acceptance of matcha, now incorporated into numerous desserts and available alongside specialty whisk kits for home preparation, confirms its enduring presence as a core alternative to traditional coffee culture.

The Singapore F&B scene navigated significant volatility in 2025, consolidating its position both as a proving ground for international concepts and a resilient environment where hyper-local innovations can thrive, setting the stage for further evolution in consumer habits and operational models in the coming year.

Singapore’s dynamic food and beverage industry experienced a turbulent yet transformative year in 2025, characterized by unexpected high-profile closures contrasted sharply with the influx of international flagships and the rise of niche food trends like home cafés and endemic matcha mania. As the year draws to a close, the local dining landscape reflects a paradoxical mix of business fatigue and innovative entrepreneurial spirit, prompting collective introspection among diners and industry veterans about affordability, sustainability, and changing consumer habits. This retrospective analysis synthesizes the key industry conversations that shaped the culinary climate, relying on keen observation and community feedback gathered from queues, group discussions, and widespread media coverage throughout the year.

The Year of Unexpected Closures

The most defining narrative of 2025 was the relentless wave of F&B closures, fostering a palpable sense of disbelief that eventually evolved into fatigue among local food enthusiasts. High-profile local ventures, including beloved institutions like Keong Saik Bakery and the entire Privé Group portfolio, ceased operations. The downturn spared no sector; even reputable international chains like Burger & Lobster and Eggslut retreated from the market, signalling widespread operational challenges.

This volatility extended even to the upper echelons of dining, with several Michelin-starred restaurants dimming their lights permanently. The departure of nine one-starred establishments served as a stark reminder that critical acclaim does not guarantee commercial longevity in Singapore’s highly competitive environment. Industry commentary quickly zeroed in on escalating operating costs—particularly soaring rents and persistent manpower shortages—as primary culprits, exacerbated by recent shifts in local dining frequency. However, this struggle galvanized the community, inspiring readers to actively seek out and champion homegrown neighborhood businesses.

Rise of the Home Café Phenomenon

Counterbalancing the formal market contraction was the proliferation of hyper-local, low-key home cafés. Operating out of unassuming HDB flats or landed property front yards, these quirky establishments, inspired by pioneers like Ground Floor Coffee and Kopikhoo, captured immediate public interest due to their novelty and exclusivity.

Concepts like Two Sisters Smoothie and Knead Kopi demonstrated the potential of these semi-formal operations, providing unique offerings ranging from bespoke fruit smoothies to traditional local breakfast sets. Critically, these ventures generally do not require a formal Singapore Food Agency (SFA) license, provided they adhere to stringent food safety regulations. Often run as side hustles, home cafés offered consumers an alternative dining experience characterized by significantly lower prices and a compelling sense of discovery, capitalizing on a community desire for authentic, intimate food experiences.

Singapore: The Gateway for International Brands

Despite the domestic closures, 2025 cemented Singapore’s status as a coveted launchpad for global F&B brands. Amidst the economic uncertainties, the consistent volume of international operators choosing the island state for their first overseas outpost was remarkable.

The enthusiasm for Japanese cuisine remained paramount, welcoming acclaimed venues like Tokyo’s Udon Shin and Pizza Studio Tamaki, alongside upscale dining experiences such as Ginza’s Nikuya Tanaka. South Korea contributed Gwanghwamun Mijin, an institution specializing in cold buckwheat noodles. Perhaps most vibrantly, Australian frozen yogurt brand Yo-Chi revitalized the froyo market, drawing long queues. This trend highlights Singapore’s attractiveness as a regional test kitchen, although it consistently raises the crucial question of whether international standards and quality can be faithfully maintained in a new environment.

The Unstoppable Force of Matcha Mania

Matcha transformed from a niche specialty to an endemic fixture in Singapore’s café culture this year. Far from just a coffee alternative, the green tea powder inspired unparalleled creativity, multiplying beyond simple lattes into experimental concoctions involving fruits, local flavors like blue pea and taro, and indulgent desserts.

This surge in popularity occurred ironically after a late-2024 supply shortage, which seemingly heightened consumer curiosity. The trend also fuelled vigorous debate among purists who championed traditional koicha and usucha preparations, versus the majority who embraced milk-based flavored drinks. Regardless of preparation, matcha’s perceived health benefits and distinctive flavor profile ensured its pervasive presence, solidifying it as a core component of the modern Singaporean drinking repertoire.

Mainland Chinese Chains Expand Aggressively

While other international brands entered cautiously, F&B chains from mainland China arrived swiftly and decisively. Beyond established names like Haidilao, the market saw a rapid proliferation of newer chains offering highly competitive pricing and operational efficiency. Zhejiang cuisine was represented by Longjing, known for its opulent interiors and viral desserts, while Hunan powerhouse Xiang Xiang Hunan Cuisine rapidly expanded its footprint across the island.

This expansion wasn’t limited to dining halls; beverage outlets like Luckin Coffee and tea specialists like Chagee became ubiquitous fixtures in commercial districts. These chains offer a modern, efficient, and often wallet-friendly alternative to traditional dining, suggesting that the influence of mainland Chinese culinary concepts will continue to grow, reshaping the average Singaporean’s dining options for years to come.

SINGAPORE — Jewel Changi Airport is solidifying its reputation as Southeast Asia’s premier hub for Japanese pop culture with the pending arrival of The Gundam Base, the official retail outlet for the iconic science-fiction franchise. Following the successful launches of branded stores for Pokémon and One Piece, this new location marks Singapore’s first official Gundam store. While the precise opening date remains unconfirmed, preliminary signage at the Changi Airport retail complex indicates the highly anticipated launch will occur sometime in 2026, offering anime and model enthusiasts a dedicated destination for official merchandise and events.

The strategic addition of The Gundam Base follows a clear trend of catering to the region’s fervent anime and manga fandom. The store, operated by Bandai Spirits, is expected to become a major draw for both international visitors and local collectors. Store hoardings are currently visible at Jewel, confirming the location and suggesting preparations are well underway for the 2026 debut.

What to Expect at The Gundam Base Singapore

Like its international counterparts in major Asian cities such as Tokyo, Taipei, and Bangkok, The Gundam Base at Jewel Changi Airport will specialize in Gunpla, or Gundam plastic model kits. These build-it-yourself kits are the cornerstone of the franchise’s merchandise, allowing fans to assemble detailed replicas of the giant military robots featured in the long-running animated series.

• Extensive Gunpla Selection: The store will feature a vast inventory of model kits, ranging from beginner-friendly versions with pre-colored snap-together parts to complex, detailed models requiring advanced techniques and custom painting.
• Life-Sized Displays: Visitors can anticipate large-scale and potentially life-sized Gundam robot displays, offering unique photo opportunities and enhancing the immersive retail experience.
• Workshops and Learning: The Singapore outlet is scheduled to host model-building workshops, catering to both novices looking to master basic construction and experienced builders seeking advanced tips and techniques.
• Exclusive Launches: To generate excitement, The Gundam Base locations often offer exclusive, limited-edition Gunpla kits specific to that country or region. The Jewel store is expected to debut Singapore-exclusive merchandise, highly coveted by serious collectors.

Expanding Global Footprint

The introduction of The Gundam Base reflects the franchise’s ongoing strategy to expand its international retail presence. The store portfolio currently includes multiple successful locations across Japan, highlighted by its flagship in Tokyo’s Odaiba district. Internationally, the brand has established strong footholds throughout Asia, with the Singapore opening following a new expansion set for Hong Kong in December 2025.

For enthusiasts, the arrival of this dedicated retail space means increased access to authentic merchandise and official events without relying on regional imports. It further establishes Jewel Changi Airport not just as a global aviation gateway, but a cultural magnet, drawing fans who value high-quality, specialized pop culture experiences alongside traditional luxury and dining.

This concentration of official anime retail outlets—Pokémon Center, the One Piece Mugiwara Store, and now The Gundam Base—transforms Jewel Changi Airport into an essential pilgrimage site for Asian pop culture consumers, significantly boosting its cultural relevance and drawing power in the region.

Comedic musician Morgan Jay, known for transforming modern dating woes into R\&B-style anthemic comedy, is slated to bring his highly popular “Goofy Guy Tour” to Singapore on Friday, November 13, 2026. The Los Angeles-based performer, who mixes sharp observational stand-up with fearlessly improvised musical comedy using autotune and a guitar, will take the stage at the prestigious Esplanade Theatre, marking his highly anticipated arrival for his dedicated fanbase across Asia.

Jay’s distinctive performance style has made him a digital phenomenon, particularly among Millennial and Gen Z audiences, who collectively refer to themselves as the “Goofy Gang.” His method involves less traditional stand-up structure and more of dynamic, on-stage interaction where audience anecdotes and modern emotional baggage are instantly converted into surprisingly catchy, pitch-corrected songs. This blend of improvisational crowd work, musical talent, and candid discussion of topics like therapy culture, emotional unavailability, and the absurdities of internet fame has garnered him hundreds of millions of views across social media platforms and led to a string of sold-out international dates, stretching from LA to Brazil.

A New Blend of Modern Comedy

The centerpiece of Morgan Jay’s appeal lies in his innovative use of autotune not merely as a vocal enhancement, but as a comedic tool. During his sets, he often plays the role of an impromptu matchmaker or relationship therapist, soliciting stories from the crowd. These real-time confessions—about disastrous dates or confusing modern relationship dynamics—are then musically chronicled, offering both catharsis and hilarious relatability. His observational humor extends beyond dating into sharp commentary on contemporary masculinity and the exhaustion of maintaining an online persona.

The decision to host the event at the Esplanade Theatre reflects Jay’s growing popularity. The venue, capable of accommodating large audiences, offers an appropriate setting for a performer who manages to make expansive theaters feel as intimate and chaotic as a group chat. Judging by the material featured in his 2025 performances, Singapore audiences should prepare for an evening of deeply relatable, musically charged, and often unexpectedly vulnerable comedy.

Ticket Information for the Goofy Gang

Fans interested in securing tickets for the November 2026 show should note the following purchasing details:

• Venue: Esplanade Theatre, Singapore
• Performance Date: Friday, November 13, 2026
• Ticket Price Range: S$68 to S$108 (excluding booking fees)

Tickets will be available exclusively through Sistic.

Presale Opportunity: An exclusive presale period for general admission begins promptly on December 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM SGT and concludes on December 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM SGT. To gain access to the presale code, potential attendees must sign up for the Now/Live mailing list by 10:00 PM SGT on December 19, 2025.

General Sales: Tickets go on sale to the general public on December 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM SGT.

Morgan Jay’s tour provides a powerful example of how digital fame and genre-bending creativity are reshaping the landscape of global comedy, making stand-up an increasingly diverse and interactive experience. For those navigating the complexities of modern life and dating, Jay offers a soundtrack to the chaos, promising a night of genuine laughter and musical insight.

Despite significant industry challenges marked by restaurant closures, Singapore’s culinary landscape proved resilient and vibrant in 2025, welcoming a surge of highly diverse and impressive new dining establishments. Through keen observation and hands-on experience, Time Out’s team identified 16 standout venues from the approximately 60 new restaurants launched this year, celebrating the city-state’s continued role as a global gastronomic hub. This curated list offers diners unparalleled access to cuisines spanning continents—from refined Japanese techniques to contemporary Singaporean flavors—providing actionable recommendations for seasoned foodies and casual diners alike as they navigate the evolving local scene.

The past year presented considerable headwinds for the Food and Beverage (F&B) sector in Singapore, manifesting in the unfortunate departure of several established favorites. This “farewell fatigue,” however, was significantly countered by an exuberant wave of new ventures. In 2025 alone, the market saw an average of five substantial restaurant openings monthly, driven by aspiring entrepreneurs, respected industry veterans, and large international groups seeking a foothold in Asia.

The Global Palate in Singapore

Singapore’s adventurous and cosmopolitan dining public continues to serve as an effective proving ground for a wide array of international concepts. The 16 top selections reflect this global diversity, showcasing culinary styles from nearly every continent and demonstrating exceptional quality, atmosphere, and value.

The list highlights venues that have successfully transported authentic international flavors while often adapting them for the local palate. For instance, Latido, which offers unique Latin American fare like their popular braised rabbit wraps, and Magpie, lauded for its sophisticated, borderless soul food, including Fijian ceviche, exemplify this successful cross-cultural exchange. Italian cuisine saw a fresh take with Scarpetta, impressing critics with its handmade pasta and inventive desserts like olive oil gelato.

Spotlighting Local and Regional Innovation

Beyond the global roster, several establishments championed flavors closer to home, offering compelling reinterpretations of cherished regional dishes.

• Bibik Violet: A more relaxed, accessible alternative to the renowned Violet Oon venues, this spot delivers honest, high-quality, traditional Peranakan cooking.
• Revolution: A reboot of the popular natural wine bar format, this establishment notably incorporates Asian-inspired elements into its lunch menu, featuring inventive fusion dishes such as hua diao white clams linguine and salted egg carbonara.
• Belimbing: This restaurant champions a unique “new-gen” Singaporean cuisine, with highlights like their fragrant nasi ulam, a deeply flavorful dish chock-full of local herbs like ulam raja and ginger flower.

These new entries underscore an exciting movement toward modernizing local and regional culinary heritage without sacrificing authenticity.

The 16 Essential New Restaurants of 2025

| Cuisine Focus | Establishment Name |
| :— | :— |
| Japanese/Noodle | Udon Shin |
| French/Steak | La Vache! |
| Japanese/Meat | Nikuya Tanaka |
| Peranakan | Bibik Violet |
| Fusion/Bistro | Revolution |
| Japanese Fine Dining | Zeniya |
| Contemporary Singaporean | Belimbing |
| Sri Lankan | Station by Kotuwa |
| ‘Borderless’ Soul Food | Magpie |
| Asian Comfort Food | Bon Broth |
| Italian Pasta Bar | Scarpetta |
| Italian/Cicchetti | Casa Cicheti |
| Latin American | Latido |
| Japanese/Casual | Sushi Zushi (Funan) |
| Desserts/Sweets | Sugarra |
| Korean Fine Dining | Modu |

This vetted list provides practical guidance for those seeking new dining experiences this year, whether planning an intimate date night or organizing a large festive gathering. From affordable venues serving fresh, high-quality eats to full-scale splurge experiences, these 16 restaurants represent the pinnacle of Singapore’s newest culinary offerings, solidifying the city’s position as a food destination continually worth exploring. The successful breadth and caliber of these openings signal a strong vote of confidence in the future of Singapore’s dynamic F&B ecosystem.

Residents in Singapore’s North-East can reap the benefits of complimentary train travel on select routes until December 27, a limited-time initiative offered by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). This strategic move aims to ease congestion during peak commuting hours by incentivizing early travel across parts of the North-East Line (NEL) and associated Light Rail Transit (LRT) networks. Commuters must tap into participating stations during specific off-peak windows on weekdays to enjoy the waived fares for their initial train journey.

Incentivizing Off-Peak Travel

The temporary fare exemption encompasses key stations along the NEL, including Kovan, Hougang, Buangkok, Sengkang, and the newly operational Punggol Coast MRT station. Similarly, free travel applies to the Sengkang-Punggol LRT loops, providing substantial relief for residents across these residential hubs.

To qualify for the waived fare, commuters must adhere to specific timing criteria during weekdays, excluding public holidays. The eligible tap-in windows are strictly before 7:30 a.m. or between 9:00 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. By fulfilling these requirements at any of the designated stations, passengers automatically receive a 100% discount on their first train ride.

A crucial point for commuters is that their final destination is irrelevant to the perk. Whether exiting closer to home or traveling directly into the Central Business District (CBD), the fare remains waived as long as the tap-in criteria are met.

Relieving Morning Congestion

According to the LTA, the primary objective of this program is to “moderate travel demand during the morning peak and improve the experience for commuters.” Singapore’s public transport infrastructure frequently faces intense pressure during traditional peak hours, particularly between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. By shifting a portion of this demand earlier or slightly later, the authority seeks to distribute passenger load more evenly, thereby enhancing comfort and efficiency for all travelers.

For individuals with flexible work arrangements, this scheme presents an ideal opportunity to maximize savings and enjoy a less crowded commute. Even those with fixed schedules are encouraged to adjust their routines, suggesting an earlier start to the day. An earlier commute could even allow time for a relaxed breakfast before entering the office.

Take Advantage Before Time Runs Out

This free ride promotion complements an existing city-wide incentive: commuters who tap into any MRT station across Singapore before 7:45 a.m. on weekdays already receive a 50-cent reduction on their train journey. The current NEL and LRT offer provides an even greater benefit—complete fare waiver—for those specific areas and timings.

As the deadline approaches on December 27, North-East residents are advised to quickly integrate these timing incentives into their daily routines. The successful uptake of such schemes forms part of Singapore’s broader goal to utilize dynamic pricing and non-monetary incentives to optimize urban mobility.

For those planning an earlier CBD arrival, considering nearby breakfast spots can enhance the morning experience.

Further Reading:

• Explore local attractions and activities in Singapore this month.
• Discover the best cafes and dining options in the Central Business District.

Despite a challenging year for the dining industry, Singapore’s restaurant scene experienced a dynamic surge in 2025, welcoming a staggering influx of 60 new establishments, cementing the city-state’s reputation as a robust global gourmet hub. While acknowledging the painful closure of beloved spots, Time Out’s editorial team sampled and scrutinized the year’s openings, curating a definitive list of the 16 best new restaurants that truly delivered on flavor, ambience, and value. This collection, covering everything from international chains to ambitious local startups, showcases the diverse and adventurous spirit of Singaporean diners, offering must-visit spots for every palate and budget.

A Global Feast Arrives in the City

The sheer volume of high-quality new venues made the task of narrowing down the best impossible. Ultimately, 16 remarkable locations earned a spot on the coveted list, reflecting the island’s unmatched ability to serve as a testbed for global cuisine. These spots impressed critics with their originality and execution, spanning a globe-trotting array of flavors that delighted Singapore’s discerning foodies.

Among the international concepts making waves were institutions elevating regional specialties. Latido, for example, stood out as Singapore’s sole Colombian restaurant, earning praise for signature dishes like their complex, braised rabbit wraps. Celebrating borderless and bold soul food, Magpie’s creative menu, featuring unexpected twists like Fijian ceviche, captivated diners. Meanwhile, Italian cuisine saw an artisan revival with Scarpetta, whose handmade pasta and decadent olive oil gelato offered a refined yet approachable experience.

The list of standouts confirms Singapore’s status as a culinary melting pot, featuring exceptional offerings across numerous traditions:

• Japanese (Udon Shin, Nikuya Tanaka, Zeniya, Sushi Zushi)
• Korean (Modu)
• Spanish, Latin American, and Sri Lankan (Latido, Station by Kotuwa)
• European and Italian (La Vache!, Casa Cicheti, Scarpetta)

Championing Homegrown and Modern Asian Flavors

While international contenders dominated many headlines, several local concepts breathed exciting new life into Singaporean and Asian-inspired cuisine. These restaurants proved that innovation and tradition can successfully coexist amid the city’s contemporary dining landscape.

Industry veteran Violet Oon introduced Bibik Violet, providing a more relaxed, accessible approach to her signature honest-to-goodness Peranakan dishes. This casual outlet quickly became a favorite for those seeking high-quality Nonya fare without the formality of Oon’s established chain.

Further demonstrating creative fusion, Revolution, a reboot of the popular natural wine bar RVLT, now features a lunch menu centered on exceptional Asian-inspired pasta. Highlights include comforting dishes like hua diao white clams linguine and a luscious salted egg carbonara, demonstrating a mastery of combining local flavors with Western techniques.

Perhaps most emblematic of Singapore’s culinary future is Belimbing, which proudly champions “new-gen” Singaporean cuisine. Its intensely fragrant nasi ulam, packed with herbs such as ulam raja and ginger flower, has been hailed as a revolutionary take on a classic dish, capturing the imagination of both critics and locals.

Planning Your Next Meal

Whether planning an intimate date night or organizing a large holiday gathering, this curated list provides an essential starting point for exploration. The 16 top selections represent a balanced mix in terms of value, ranging from stylish, budget-friendly joints offering competitive pricing on fresh pasta and handrolls, to major blowout dining experiences worthy of a celebratory splurge.

These establishments offer tangible proof that even in a highly competitive market, commitment to quality, originality, and genuine hospitality can yield exceptional results. As Singapore continues to cement its reputation on the global food stage, these 16 newcomers illuminate the way forward, promising an exciting future for the island’s dining scene.

The 16 Top New Restaurants of 2025:

• Udon Shin
• La Vache!
• Nikuya Tanaka
• Bibik Violet
• Revolution
• Zeniya
• Belimbing
• Station by Kotuwa
• Magpie
• Bon Broth
• Scarpetta
• Casa Cicheti
• Latido
• Sushi Zushi (Funan)
• Sugarra
• Modu