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As the holiday season peaks, Singapore’s café scene offers curated escapes for those seeking solace, specialty brews, and unique culinary experiences. December arrivals include five distinct venues: a kissaten-inspired bar, a stylish rooftop lounge in Orchard, a dedicated matcha nook in Everton Park, a vibrant coconut-themed café in Duxton, and a contemplative Korean import focused on reflective writing. These new spots blend artisanal quality with novel aesthetics, providing fresh reasons to explore the city’s diverse coffee and dessert culture.

Seeking Solace: Quiet Corner and Third Floor Offer Urban Retreats

For those who find peace in the moody ambiance of vintage jazz, Quiet Corner provides a sophisticated daytime pause. Located at Dbespoke’s Bukit Pasoh venue, this concept draws inspiration from Japan’s 1960s to 1980s jazz kissatens—traditional coffee houses known for excellent music and strong coffee. Against a backdrop of dark wood furnishings and the owner’s collection of over 7,000 vinyl records and CDs spanning jazz, ambient, and folk genres, guests can enjoy meticulously prepared brews.

The menu highlights Japanese classic desserts, such as pudding and coffee jelly (priced at $8), alongside a selection of coffee and tea. Coffee aficionados can choose between two specialized blends (starting at $9): the bittersweet, chocolatey “jazz blend,” prepared using the siphon method, or the fruitier, nuttier “ambient blend,” a nel drip brew. For a slightly stronger afternoon treat, the spot offers cold-brew cocktails ($25) and classic highballs.

Meanwhile, for an above-the-fray retreat following holiday shopping, Third Floor redefines the rooftop experience at Design Orchard. This venue, spearheaded by the team behind established F&B concepts like Maxi Coffee Bar and No Sleep Club, replaces a former coffee spot with a spacious, sophisticated lounge. Overlooking the bustling Orchard Road intersection, the location remains accessible yet provides an essential separation from the retail chaos.

Daytime visitors can enjoy Costa Rican beans roasted by Maxi Coffee Bar (black coffee from $5), complemented by satisfying meals that include focaccia sandwiches ($15) and burrata-topped spinach tagliolini ($20). As evening descends, the space transitions seamlessly, offering wine and craft cocktails alongside innovative dinner plates, transforming the spot into a vibrant yet relaxed social hub.

Specialty Focus: Matcha and Tropical Vibes

Away from the central retail districts, Rituals of Kora has opened in the residential enclave of Everton Park, catering to Singapore’s growing fascination with matcha. This pocket-sized counterpart to Kora Bakehouse features dark wood and brick walls, creating a cozy atmosphere, though seating is limited to about six indoors.

Rituals of Kora elevates the category by offering five to six unique, often unexpected, matcha combinations. Highlights include the vibrant Supernova matcha ($9.50), mixing premium matcha with mango purée and strawberry compote, and the intriguing taro matcha ($11.90). Visitors are advised to visit on weekdays or off-peak hours to sample their specialized drinks and accompanying fresh bakes, such as mochie brownies and classic croissants.

In Duxton, the tropical influence is strong at Cococean, a popular chain making its international debut from China. Known for its dedication to coconuts, particularly the distinct milkier flavor of Thai Nam Hom coconuts, the café offers over 20 items. While the menu includes refreshing coconut water, coffees, teas, and desserts, the centerpiece is the signature rainbow coconut yogurt smoothie ($9). This visually stunning, layered drink draws comparisons to high-end Californian smoothies but maintains a focus on health, incorporating fresh coconut, spirulina, turmeric, and prickly pear powder.

The Reflective Pause: Nuldam Space

Offering an entirely different type of mental escape, Nuldam Space, a Korean import, has arrived on the second floor of Scape. This café blends artisanal bakery offerings with a unique, introspective ritual: writing letters to one’s future self. Visitors use classic pen and paper to compose their thoughts, which are then filed away and scheduled for mailing on a specific date the following year, chosen from a giant letter wall listing all 365 days.

As guests engage in this deliberate, phone-free activity, they can enjoy a variety of vegan bakes, including cream-topped croffles and specialized croissants, and inventive beverages like the black sesame cream latte. Nuldam Space encourages self-reflection, making it ideal for a solo visit, a meaningful first date, or a bonding session over pastry and pensive moments.

These additions confirm Singapore’s status as a dynamic hub for curated lifestyle experiences, ensuring that even amidst the festive frenzy, an ideal spot for a moment of peace, specialty coffee, or exotic flavor is never far away.

Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is launching a whimsical new character-themed display, “My Little Pony: Petals of Friendship,” at its Floral Fantasy attraction, replacing the former Disney installation. Running now through April 12, 2026, the exhibition transforms the indoor floral space into the magical realm of Equestria, featuring large-scale installations of beloved characters like Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash set amid vibrant floral arrangements and motifs celebrating the lead-up to the Year of the Horse in 2026.

This engagement shift in the Flower Dome’s neighboring attraction underscores Gardens by the Bay’s commitment to rotational, themed exhibitions that blend horticulture with pop culture, offering fresh narratives for visitors. Following the conclusion of a nine-month run dedicated to Disney favorites, the new exhibition taps into the enduring global popularity of the My Little Pony franchise, captivating both long-time fans (“Bronies” and “Pegasisters”) and new generations.

Stepping into Equestria: An Immersive Experience

The “Petals of Friendship” display meticulously recreates the fantastical world of the ponies through a blend of floriculture and detailed set design. Visitors immediately encounter life-sized replicas of the show’s main characters, each situated within arrangements of blooms specifically chosen to reflect their unique personalities and color palettes.

A standout feature is the integration of cultural symbolism. The exhibition incorporates backdrops and traditional motifs inspired by Chinese culture, a deliberate thematic choice intended to commemorate the upcoming Chinese New Year in 2026, which coincides with the Year of the Horse. This strategic fusion of Western intellectual property with local seasonal relevance elevates the display beyond a simple character showcase.

Further immersion is achieved through the recreation of significant locations from the series. Guests can “gallop” toward Canterlot, where the exhibit features a grand castle centerpiece. Here, the pony princesses await alongside a royal carriage and elaborate decor inspired by stained-glass artistry, offering numerous photo opportunities for fans.

Visitor Information and Accessibility

The “My Little Pony: Petals of Friendship” exhibition is located within Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay. The attraction operates daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the last admission accepted at 8:30 p.m.

• Venue: Floral Fantasy, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore.
• Duration: Now through April 12, 2026.
• Ticketing: Entry to Floral Fantasy requires a separate ticket. Prices for Singaporean adults start from S$12.

The installation demonstrates how botanical attractions can effectively leverage globally recognized media properties to drive engagement and visitor traffic. By consistently refreshing its themed content, Gardens by the Bay ensures that it remains an essential destination on Singapore’s lifestyle and tourist map, offering an evolving sensory experience that blends nature, fantasy, and cultural commemoration. Interested parties are encouraged to book tickets in advance through the Gardens by the Bay official website.

While Singapore’s perennial New Year’s Eve countdown spectacles draw massive crowds, a compelling and free alternative for December 31, 2025, beckons at the newly revitalized *Scape. This popular youth-centric hub is set to host “Manifest: Music Day Out!,” an electrifying cultural celebration positioned as a fresh, youth-driven counterpoint to traditional mass events. Attendees can ring in the new year by experiencing a marathon performance featuring 15 breakthrough musical acts from Singapore and Southeast Asia, alongside an artisan market and engaging lifestyle activities.

The event is scheduled across two key venues within *Scape—the Playspace on Level 1 and the Ground Theatre on Level 2—offering a dynamic spectrum of sounds including indie, alternative rock, and hip-hop. This approach caters to music enthusiasts seeking an intimate atmosphere and an opportunity to discover the next generation of musical talent.

Spotlight on Emerging Regional Talent

“Manifest: Music Day Out!” provides a crucial platform for both established local favorites and promising regional newcomers, offering a compelling showcase of diverse musical styles. Artists highlighting the homegrown scene include Abangsapau, an act recognized within local music circles. The lineup, however, spans beyond Singapore, integrating international flair with bands such as Reality Club and Sukses Lancar Rejeki from Indonesia, Door Plant and Whispers from Thailand, Hulica from Indonesia, Moongekk from Malaysia, and Modern Cinema Master (當代電影大師) from Taiwan.

This cross-border musical curation underscores Singapore’s growing role as a hub for regional arts exchange. The full anticipated roster of performers for the evening includes a comprehensive mix:

• Alicia DC
• Abangsapau
• Carpet Golf
• Door Plant (Thailand)
• Hulica (Indonesia)
• iiARA
• Modern Cinema Master (Taiwan)
• Moongekk (Malaysia)
• Mystique
• Reality Club (Indonesia)
• Sobs
• Sukses Lancar Rejeki (Indonesia)
• Tzechar
• Whispers (Thailand)
• Winner of ITE Battle of the Bands

Beyond the Music: Artisan Market and Festive Amenities

To complement the musical performances, the venue will feature a curated pop-up marketplace showcasing independent creators and small businesses. This artisan area presents an array of unique goods and handmade items, ranging from fashion accessories and distinctive crystal trinkets to original art pieces, providing ample opportunity for late-year shopping and supporting local enterprise.

The festive atmosphere will be further enhanced by offerings of craft cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. Adding an element of playful introspection, tarot card readers will be available to offer readings, allowing attendees to gain clarity or perhaps a glimpse into what 2026 might hold.

Attending the Free Celebration

While general admission to “Manifest: Music Day Out!” is free, potential attendees must register online to secure their complimentary tickets. This registration process is essential for managing capacity and ensuring a smooth experience for all participants. The event serves as a testament to the continued cultural relevance of *Scape, particularly following its recent comprehensive rejuvenation, positioning it as a leading venue dedicated to nurturing Singapore’s youth and creative economy.

The celebration offers a compelling New Year’s Eve alternative, encouraging individuals to eschew the downtown crush in favor of discovering cutting-edge regional music and supporting independent creators in a vibrant, youth-centric environment.

Singapore’s vibrant Queenstown, renowned for its heritage and nostalgic atmosphere, recently unveiled a significant revitalization project: Margaret Market. Housed within the conserved former Commonwealth Avenue Wet Market & Food Centre, the venue, which opened in 2023, seamlessly marries historical architecture with contemporary food hall concepts, offering a diverse array of homegrown and international culinary brands within a community-focused, air-conditioned space. While Bencoolen may claim the title of Singapore’s “coolest” neighborhood this year, Queenstown’s preservation of landmarks like this 1956 building, gazetted for conservation by the Urban Redevelopment Authority in 2013, solidifies its cultural relevance.

The two-story market’s distinctive parabolic vaulted roof remains a centerpiece, now accented by modern lighting fixtures. The ground floor features approximately 12 food and beverage vendors alongside a communal dining area and a dedicated bar. The upper level supports community wellness with health clinics and a 24-hour gym. The overall aesthetic is evocative of European and Australian market halls, positioning Margaret Market as a chic destination for dining and gathering.

Deep Dive into Margaret Market’s Offerings

Our recent visit provided a taste of the market’s diverse culinary landscape, revealing standout successes and areas for refinement. The curation leans heavily towards quality and specialty concepts.

Fernando’s Pizza: A New York-Style Standout (5/5)
The most impressive find was Fernando’s Pizza. Despite its unassuming presence (Stall #01-09), this spot delivers exceptional square-cut, New York-style pies. Utilizing high-quality ingredients, particularly Caputo 00 flour fermented for 48 hours, the pizzas achieve a satisfying chew. The extensive menu features 21 variations, with the tagliata di manzo ($26 medium) being a savory highlight, featuring grilled ribeye, truffle cream, and fresh figs. A signature hot honey drizzle adds a unique flourish. Prices start around $22 for a medium nine-inch pizza.

Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream and Coffee: Reliability and Quality (4/5)
A trusted local brand, Creamier (Stall #01-5A), brings its popular artisanal ice cream to the market in a dedicated kiosk format. Known for combining classic flavors like Roasted Pistachio with local inspirations such as Sea Salt Gula Melaka, Creamier offers high-quality treats perfect for the communal dining area. While no exclusive flavors are offered here, the convenience and quality make it a reliable choice (from $5.90 per scoop).

Mixed Reviews on Niche Concepts (3/5)
OMG! Decadent Donuts and Brash Boys Coffee (Stall #01-08) caters to dietary restrictions, offering vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free doughnuts. While the treats are texturally soft, reviewers found them overly sweet for local tastes and slightly expensive, starting at $3.50 per doughnut. Conversely, Brash Boys Coffee within the same stall earned high marks for its stellar brews and trendy options like Hojicha lattes.

Similarly, Kumi Taiwanese Eatery (Stall #01-01A), known for Taiwanese snacks, rice bowls, and sushi (operated by the team behind Rollie Ollie), delivered a rich minced pork rice (lu rou fan, $9.50). The portion was hearty, though the price point felt slightly elevated. The rice in the sushi rolls, however, was noted as overly clumpy.

Kou Kou Xiang 口口香鸡汤饭: A Simple, Specialized Niche (2/5)
The specialized Kou Kou Xiang (Stall #01-06) serves a modest signature chicken rice soup (from $8.80). Though reviewers found the agarious mushrooms chicken soup packed with healthy herbs, its flavor profile was extremely light—best suited for those seeking comforting, medicinal fare or patrons with lighter palates. Customizing the broth with counter condiments (like chili and other sauces) is highly recommended for added complexity.

The Market Verdict and Local Context

Margaret Market offers a visually appealing, sophisticated environment that sets it apart from traditional local hawker centers. Its unique modern design and concept successfully emulate market halls seen abroad. However, during this visit, the balance between exceptional and merely average offerings suggested that the market still seeks consistency across all vendors.

Guests dining here should note that since the dining area lacks centralized tray return stations, patrons must return used items to the individual stalls to prevent sanitation issues.

If travelers are seeking the best variety of time-honored, high-quality local cuisine, the neighboring Margaret Drive Hawker Centre remains a powerful alternative, featuring highly-rated stalls like Queenstown Lontong and Tong Kee Chicken Rice. Yet, for those desiring a chic, climate-controlled dining experience featuring creative culinary concepts and late-night drinks at spots like Margie The Market Bar (offering live music Thursday through Saturday), Margaret Market is a valid option in Queenstown.

Margaret Market is located at 38 Margaret Dr, Singapore 141038, and is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 10 or 11 p.m.

For Singaporeans seeking an alternative to the crowded, large-scale New Year’s Eve events, the newly revitalized *SCAPE is hosting a free, youth-focused countdown celebration this December 31. Titled “Manifest: Music Day Out!,” the event showcases over 15 emerging musical acts from Singapore and across Southeast Asia, spanning indie, alternative, and hip-hop genres. Spanning the Playspace on Level 1 and the Ground Theatre on Level 2, the festival offers an energetic cultural experience complete with craft beverages, a curated pop-up market, and unique activities like tarot card readings, positioning it as a distinct cultural offering for ushering in the new year.

The celebration distinguishes itself by placing a spotlight on rising artistic talent, catering specifically to the local and regional youth music scenes. While mass countdowns focus on spectacle, Manifest promotes musical discovery. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear a diverse line-up featuring both established local names, such as homegrown artist Abangsapau, and promising new voices. The roster includes international acts, highlighting *SCAPE’s role as a regional platform for creative exchange.

Spotlighting Regional Music Movers

The event promises a sonic journey that crosses borders, with international participation underscoring Singapore’s position in the regional music circuit.

Notable Acts Include:

• Abangsapau (Singapore)
• Reality Club (Indonesia)
• Carpet Golf (Singapore)
• Door Plant (Thailand)
• Hulica (Indonesia)
• Moongekk (Malaysia)
• Modern Cinema Master 當代電影大師 (Taiwan)
• Whispers (Thailand)

This genre-blending showcase provides an accessible avenue for music enthusiasts to encounter their next favorite artists, offering a refreshing counterpoint to mainstream entertainment.

Beyond the musical performances, Manifest incorporates elements of lifestyle and culture, reflecting the demographic it serves. A curated pop-up market will feature independent merchants and creatives selling everything from artisanal accessories and crystal trinkets to handmade art. Patrons can browse these unique goods while enjoying a selection of craft cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages. Adding a whimsical touch, professional tarot card readers will be on hand to offer insights for the coming year, engaging those interested in a playful glimpse into 2026.

Plan Your Visit

The event utilizes the refreshed facilities at *SCAPE, a multi-story hub focused on youth development and creative enterprise. While entry to “Manifest: Music Day Out!” is entirely free, organizers stress that online registration is required to secure a ticket. This process helps manage crowd control and ensure a smooth experience for all attendees.

As Singapore continues to evolve its cultural landscape, events like Manifest offer valuable spaces for specialized communities. By focusing on emerging talent and providing a free, diverse cultural offering, *SCAPE provides an engaging platform for youth to ring in the New Year. For music lovers eager to support the future sounds of Southeast Asia and experience a festive, non-traditional countdown, this festival offers a compelling option. Further information and registration details are available through the official *SCAPE website.

Queenstown, Singapore – The historic roots of Queenstown, one of Singapore’s most nostalgic and oldest neighborhoods, have received a modern, culinary uplift with the opening of Margaret Market. Housed within the conserved 1956 structure of the former Commonwealth Avenue Wet Market & Food Centre, the facility reopened in 2023 as a chic, air-conditioned community hub, blending heritage architecture with international food hall concepts. While Bencoolen may claim the title of Singapore’s “coolest” district for 2025, Margaret Market anchors Queenstown’s appeal, offering residents and visitors a diverse selection of homegrown retail and dining experiences.

A New Chapter for a Historical Landmark

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) gazetted the former market for conservation in 2013, ensuring the preservation of its distinctive parabolic vaulted roof. This architectural feature, now complemented by modern lighting fixtures, defines the space’s soaring interior, creating an ambiance reminiscent of upscale food halls found overseas.

The two-story complex dedicates its ground floor to approximately 12 culinary vendors and a communal dining space, promoting local brands. The upper level focuses on wellness, housing health clinics and a 24-hour gymnasium, cementing Margaret Market’s role as a holistic neighborhood centre. The appeal lies in its curated diversity, but a recent visit sought to determine if the substance matches the style.

Culinary Highlights and Misses

Initial reviews suggest a mixed bag of culinary experiences, despite the attractive setting.

Fernando’s Pizza (5/5): A clear standout, this vendor delivers authentic New York-style slices. Their pizzas, made with Caputo 00 flour and a 48-hour fermentation process resulting in a satisfying chew, are available in 21 variations. The tagliata di manzo is highly recommended, featuring grilled ribeye, truffle cream, and fresh figs, often paired with the stall’s signature hot honey drizzle.

Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream and Coffee (4/5): This familiar homegrown brand provides a reliable dessert option. Operating its first kiosk concept at Margaret Market since last August, Creamier offers beloved flavors like sea salt gula melaka and Hokey Pokey. The convenience of a quality ice cream spot in the vicinity is a definite plus.

OMG! Decadent Donuts and Brash Boys Coffee (3/5): Catering to various dietary restrictions, OMG! offers vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free doughnuts in unique flavors like beetroot ginger and kopi. While the texture is soft, the sweetness level may be intense for the Singaporean palate, and the products are noted as relatively expensive given their size. However, the accompanying Brash Boys Coffee receives strong marks for excellent brews, including trendy options like strawberry matcha.

Kumi Taiwanese Eatery (3/5): Serving a mix of Taiwanese fare, sushi, and bubble tea, Kumi offers a lu rou fan (minced pork rice) praised for its rich, melt-in-your-mouth braised pork belly. Although the portion is generous, the rice bowls are considered slightly pricey for the area. The sushi rolls, featuring combinations from sister concept Rollie Ollie, were found to be hampered by clumpy rice.

Kou Kou Xiang (2/5): This stall, specializing in chicken rice soup, caters to specific tastes, perhaps ideal for restorative comfort food. The signature agarious mushrooms chicken soup with traditional Chinese herbs is noted for its clean, mild flavor profile. Customizing the broth with counter condiments is highly recommended for an enhanced experience.

Beyond the Bites

Margaret Market also features other noteworthy establishments, including Daebak Korean Restaurant, Bowen’s Café (serving Western classics), and Hua Jie Dumpling. Margie The Market Bar is positioned as a relaxed social spot, hosting live music from Thursday through Saturday evenings.

While Margaret Market offers a distinguished, aesthetically pleasing dining environment that elevates the food court experience, some visitors felt there were too many culinary “misses.” For those seeking traditional, affordable local fare, the neighboring Margaret Drive Hawker Centre remains a strong contender with established popular stalls like Tong Kee Chicken Rice.

Margaret Market is open daily at 38 Margaret Drive, offering a compelling blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. Visitors are encouraged to help maintain the communal space by utilizing the designated tray return points at each stall. The market ultimately provides an attractive, if sometimes inconsistent, destination that successfully preserves a piece of Queenstown’s past while catering to contemporary lifestyle needs.

The National Gallery Singapore has secured a landmark designation as Asia’s inaugural Healing Arts Centre of Excellence, recognizing its pioneering efforts to integrate the arts into public health and wellness initiatives, particularly for vulnerable populations.

In a significant move underscoring the growing global recognition of the arts as a vital component of holistic healthcare, the National Gallery Singapore (NGS) has been officially named the first Healing Arts Centre of Excellence in Asia. This prestigious designation, awarded by the Jameel Arts & Health Lab and the World Health Organization (WHO), positions Singapore’s largest and oldest museum as a key partner in developing and implementing health and wellness programs. The partnership targets underserved communities, including individuals living with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and dementia, affirming the museum’s commitment to social well-being alongside cultural enrichment.

The designation places NGS in an exclusive cohort of world-renowned institutions similarly recognized for their commitment to arts and health, such as Carnegie Hall and the Scottish Ballet. This global acknowledgment validates the profound impact cultural institutions can have on public health strategies by using creative engagement to address physical, mental, and social health challenges.

Launching “Healing Arts Singapore”

Central to this new status is the activation of Healing Arts Singapore, a collaborative, long-term initiative designed to fuse the transformative power of the arts with healthcare systems across the nation. This campaign involves significant academic and artistic partners, including the Youth Siew Toh Conservatory of Music’s Centre for Music and Health at the National University of Singapore, the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), and the University of the Arts Singapore.

The domestic success of Healing Arts Singapore is intended to serve as a blueprint, allowing the framework and its positive outcomes to be amplified and adapted across the broader Asian region. The effort seeks to formalize and professionalize the integration of creative practices into preventative care and therapeutic interventions.

Accessibility and Inclusivity at NGS

NGS has already established several initiatives focusing on inclusivity and providing therapeutic art experiences tailored for diverse needs:

• Mindfulness Audio Guides: These resources, focusing on slow art appreciation, utilize sensory engagement to foster mindfulness and a sense of calm among visitors.
• Tactile Collections: The Hands-on Learning and Development (HOLD) collection features components specifically designed with tactile elements, ensuring that visually impaired and blind individuals can engage meaningfully with the art.
• Gallery Wonders Program: This program removes common barriers to entry by offering curated tours and complimentary transport. It targets individuals who are neurodivergent, elderly, or residing in nursing homes, ensuring art remains accessible to all segments of society.

Furthermore, recognizing the potential for sensory overload in busy museum environments, NGS offers a dedicated calm room. This space provides a quiet retreat where visitors can decompress and regulate their senses, ensuring a comfortable experience for those with sensitivities.

This pioneering move by the National Gallery Singapore signals a new era where cultural preservation and public health advocacy are intrinsically linked. It offers a tangible demonstration of how museums can evolve from static repositories of history to dynamic centers for community healing and well-being.

To learn more about the initiative, visit the official Healing Arts Singapore website.

After a comprehensive two-year, S$50 million renovation, City Square Mall in Singapore has relaunched, offering visitors a significantly enhanced retail, dining, and recreational experience. Directly connected to Farrer Park MRT station, the refreshed 16-year-old venue boasts a sleek new aesthetic, expanded floor space, and over 30 new brands, cementing its status as a premier lifestyle destination in the heart of the city. The investment focused not only on aesthetic improvements but also on functional expansion and pioneering sustainability initiatives.

Major Retail and Entertainment Expansion

The mall’s total expanded area now encompasses 730,000 square feet, accommodating a diverse mix of new tenants. A key addition catering to families is Giggle Jungle by Yooland, a massive jungle-themed indoor playground. Located within the mall, this new attraction complements the existing multi-level suspended net playground, Airzone, offering younger visitors a dedicated space filled with obstacle courses, trampoline areas, climbing walls, sand play, and ball pits.

The dining landscape has also undergone a strategic overhaul. The Level 4 food court has been succeeded by Gastro Square, an elevated food village featuring notable establishments such as Vietnamese flame-grilled chicken specialist Chickita and the Michelin-recognized hawker institution, Kok Sen Restaurant. While the traditional food court concept moves to a redefined space at Basement 3, new culinary additions are spread throughout the mall. These include the modern Australian eatery The Fat Sparrow, Daydream Desserts, known for its creative thick toasts and soufflé pancakes, and Aunt MyeongDong, specializing in Korean barbecue.

Focus on Sustainability and Education

Beyond commercial offerings, City Square Mall is integrating robust sustainability and educational components. Outside the main entrance, adjacent to the playground area, a decommissioned SMRT train car has been repurposed. This unique structure now functions as an educational facility, hosting interactive workshops and events centered on environmental awareness and sustainability for children.

The mall’s commitment to eco-conscious practices is evident in its design features. Interior wall decorations incorporate recycled materials, including bubble wrap, milk bottle caps, and even bamboo chopsticks, artistically showcasing resourcefulness. Furthermore, the mall has implemented advanced smart systems and low-consumption lighting solutions to actively manage and reduce its overall carbon footprint, setting a benchmark for sustainable retail operations.

The extensive makeover ensures that City Square Mall remains relevant and attractive in Singapore’s competitive retail environment. By combining an expanded retail mix with dedicated family entertainment and a tangible commitment to environmental education, the mall effectively redefines the local shopping center experience. Visitors seeking the full tenant list and operating details can find further information on the mall’s official website.

Suggested Next Steps for Readers:

• Explore the full list of new F&B outlets at Gastro Square.
• Check the Giggle Jungle and Airzone operating hours for planning family visits.
• Inquire about upcoming sustainable workshop schedules held in the repurposed train car.

Tea brand Chagee has partnered with the iconic Japanese character Hello Kitty for a special holiday collaboration featuring a limited-edition beverage and exclusive merchandise, launching in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines starting December 12, 2025. This highly anticipated tie-up introduces fans to a unique “Hiyake Kitty” aesthetic, moving away from the traditional pink and incorporating a sophisticated black-and-white palette to complement a new cocoa oolong milk tea.

Collectible Merchandise Requires Beverage Purchase

The collaboration’s highlight is the Cocoa Oolong Milk Tea, which serves as the key to unlocking the exclusive Hello Kitty merchandise. Priced at $5.20 for regular and $6.20 for large in Singapore, this seasonal drink features premium oolong tea sourced from the Wuyi Mountains in China, noted for its naturally sweet, mellow, and smooth profile. To enhance the festive feel, the chocolate-infused tea is served in a take-home Hello Kitty cup accompanied by a reusable thermal carrier bag.

The selection of limited-edition collectibles, which showcase a rarely seen tanned Hello Kitty dressed in a chic black-and-white outfit with brown heart-shaped accents, are acquired through specific purchase requirements:

Acquiring the Hello Kitty Collectibles

• Snuggle Snap Plush Hair Clip: Free with the purchase of two large Cocoa Oolong Milk Teas, available starting December 12.
• Hello Kitty Cuddle Sling: Available for $21.20, which includes one large Cocoa Oolong Milk Tea, also launching December 12.
• Hello Kitty Plushie Charm: Available for $21.40, which includes two large Cocoa Oolong Milk Teas, launching December 19.
• Mini Hello Kitty Charms: Limited availability via app redemption bundled with Chagee vouchers.

Experience the Festive Pop-Up in Singapore

For fans in Singapore, Chagee is hosting a dedicated Chagee Loves Hello Kitty Pop-Up event at Orchard Road, located outside Mandarin Gallery. Running from December 13 to December 22, the event offers an immersive experience for attendees.

Visitors can participate in a festive stamp rally, which, when completed, awards additional limited-edition Hello Kitty prizes. The pop-up features several engaging stations, including a Cocoa Oolong Festivi-tea Bar, a DIY Christmas ornament station, and various holiday-themed photo opportunities. Specific updates and schedule details for the Singapore event are being shared on Chagee’s official local Instagram account (@chagee.sg).

This partnership strategically leverages the massive appeal of Hello Kitty across Southeast Asia, offering fans a unique, sophisticated take on the character just in time for the holiday season. By linking merchandise acquisition to the specialty beverage, Chagee ensures high visibility and consumer engagement for its seasonal offering, turning a simple tea purchase into a collectible experience.

The competitive world of elite dining has once again highlighted a Southeast Asian gem, as Singapore’s Araya secured a coveted position on the annual Forbes list of the “Coolest Restaurants” for 2026. This exclusive recognition, determined by a panel of influential culinary experts, singled out the Chilean-inspired establishment as the only representative from Singapore and the broader Southeast Asian region, placing it among just ten global venues pushing the boundaries of contemporary gastronomy.

The announcement positions Araya, a sophisticated 30-seat venue located within the Mondrian Singapore Duxton, at the forefront of global culinary innovation. Helmed by Chilean chef-couple Francisco Araya and Fernanda Guerrero, the restaurant is known for its inventive approach, merging traditional Chilean flavors with modern techniques and top-tier international produce. This accolade marks another significant feather in the cap for the establishment, which has garnered international attention since its inception.

Expert Panel Determines Global Dining Trends

Unlike established guides like Michelin or The World’s 50 Best, which rely on anonymous inspectors and vast voting bodies, the Forbes list is curated by a small, influential cohort of three renowned food experts. These critics base their selections on which establishments have most impressed them in the preceding year, focusing specifically on venues demonstrating remarkable creativity and foresight in the industry.

For the 2026 list, Araya was one of only two Asian restaurants selected, sharing the honor with Tokyo’s Sushi Meino.

Contributing to the selection, food expert Kristian Brask Thomsen lauded Araya for its narrative quality and unique ingredient sourcing. He described the meal as a “captivating Chilean culinary narrative,” specifically praising the restaurant’s “seductive mix of Patagonian and Japanese produce.” Thomsen highlighted the technical precision in dishes like the French pigeon and caviar, drawing comparisons to the exacting standards found at Barcelona’s celebrated Disfrutar.

Beyond the ‘Cool’ Factor: A History of Acclaim

Araya’s appearance on the Forbes list confirms its status as a consistently lauded venue. The restaurant already holds the unique distinction of being the only Chilean restaurant globally to have received a Michelin Star. Furthermore, it boasts a Michelin Sommelier Award for its meticulously curated wine program. More recently, Araya achieved a “1 Knife” distinction at The Best Chef Awards in Milan, demonstrating sustained high performance on the international stage.

The restaurant, designed for an intimate and focused dining experience, offers varied pricing options, with lunch sets beginning at $88 and multi-course dinner experiences extending up to $368.

The full 2026 selection showcases a diverse geographical spread of boundary-pushing restaurants:

• Araya, Singapore
• Da Lucio, Rimini, Italy
• The Jane 2.0, Antwerp, Belgium
• Knystaforsen, Rydabäck, Sweden
• Largo do Paço, Amarante, Portugal
• LuMi, Sydney, Australia
• Rocio Tapas y Sushi, Málaga, Spain
• Row on 5, London, United Kingdom
• Sons & Daughters, San Francisco, United States
• Sushi Meino, Tokyo, Japan

The inclusion of Araya on this exclusive roster reinforces Singapore’s position as a dynamic global culinary hub where established expertise meets innovative vision, signaling to diners worldwide that Southeast Asia remains a crucial destination for cutting-edge gastronomy. Interested diners are advised to secure reservations well in advance, given the restaurant’s limited seating and growing global profile.