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The globally trending Dubai chocolate bar, which sparked the current pistachio food phenomenon, has arrived in Singapore via a limited-time pop-up by Fix Dessert Chocolatier. This highly sought-after confection, inspired by the regional pastry knafeh, is now available for purchase inside the transit area of Singapore’s Changi Airport Terminal 1, specifically catering to travelers passing through until January 30, 2026. The launch brings the authentic, viral treat to the region, countering numerous market imitations, though accessing the shop requires a valid flight booking.

The Rise of Pistachio Perfection

The current craze for all things pistachio stems largely from this innovative chocolate bar. Traditionally, knafeh is a warm, sweet Middle Eastern dessert made with spun pastry, soaked in syrup, and often filled with soft cheese, frequently topped with crushed pistachios. Fix Dessert Chocolatier reimagined this structure, encasing crispy kataifi pastry strands and a rich pistachio cream filling within a chocolate shell. This unique combination quickly gained massive online traction, creating a global demand that transcended its origins.

The signature item, popularly known as the “Can’t Get Knafeh Of It” slab, headlines the selection available at the new Singapore location. Priced at $34.90 (Singapore dollars) per bar, the pop-up also features four other distinct flavors, including “Pick Up A Pretzel” and the Biscoff-flavored “Mind Your Own Buiscoff.”

Exclusive Access for Travelers

The logistical hurdle for eager customers is the placement of the pop-up. Located within the Changi Airport Terminal 1 transit area, access is restricted to individuals either arriving, departing, or transiting through the airport, necessitating a valid ticket. This unique constraint means non-travelers must rely on friends or family who are flying through Changi before the pop-up closes its doors in early 2026.

Despite the limited accessibility, the opening addresses substantial consumer demand across Southeast Asia for the authentic Dubai confection, which has been widely copied across various markets. The presence of the official chocolatier offers customers the opportunity to acquire the original viral product without traveling directly to the Middle East.

Navigating Food Trends in Travel

This strategic pop-up placement leverages the high foot traffic of a major international hub like Changi Airport, demonstrating how luxury and viral food trends are increasingly integrating into the travel retail ecosystem. By setting up shop in a transit zone, Fix Dessert Chocolatier primarily targets an international, affluent audience willing to splurge on novelties during their journeys.

The phenomenon underscores consumers’ willingness to pay a premium for unique, trend-driven food items, especially those that carry significant social media cachet. For those planning a trip through Singapore, the chocolate pop-up offers an exclusive, high-value souvenir opportunity. Interested travelers should note the daily operating hours are extensive, running from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m., allowing ample time for purchase regardless of flight schedules.

Singapore’s maritime landscape is evolving this month as The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection launches its superyacht, Luminara, establishing the city-state as its key home port for exclusive Southeast Asian voyages, introducing a new echelon of ultra-luxury cruising far ahead of competitors like the delayed Disney Cruise Line entry. This strategic move cements Singapore’s reputation as a premium travel hub, offering affluent travelers unparalleled high-end sea journeys across Asia.

The arrival of the Luminara signifies a significant escalation in the region’s luxury travel offerings. Operating under the renowned Ritz-Carlton brand, these journeys prioritize an intimate, high-service experience akin to a boutique hotel at sea. Unlike traditional cruise vessels, the Luminara is designed to offer expansive accommodations; every cabin is a spacious suite featuring a private balcony and panoramic ocean views, eliminating interior or windowless staterooms entirely.

Defining Luxury: Suites and Amenities

The emphasis on opulence is immediate upon boarding. Even the entry-level accommodations feature hotel-level amenities, including a king-sized bed, marble double-vanity bathrooms, complimentary minibars tailored to guest preferences, and 24-hour in-room dining services.

The superyacht experience extends far beyond the suites. Guests have access to a meticulously curated selection of onboard amenities:

• Diverse Culinary Experiences: Six distinct dining venues, including a premium Korean restaurant concept, alongside casual options like a poolside bar for relaxation and cocktails.
• Wellness and Fitness: The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers sophisticated treatments, complemented by a modern gym providing personalized nutrition guidance.
• Social Spaces: An open-deck bar and a dedicated social lounge create sophisticated environments for mingling.

These floating luxury hotels are positioned to appeal to discerning travelers seeking exclusive, multi-destination itineraries without sacrificing comfort or world-class service. Destinations frequently feature regional hotspots like the Maldives, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bali.

Accessing the Exclusivity: Price Points and Itineraries

While the experience guarantees unmatched luxury, the pricing reflects its exclusivity. Current itineraries showcase high-value voyages, often beginning or concluding in Singapore.

One highlighted route is a nine-night, one-way journey originating in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and calling at exotic locales such as Galle, Port Blair, Phuket, and Langkawi before docking in Singapore. This voyage starts at approximately $9,800 USD (roughly S$12,678), positioning it as a substantial lifestyle investment rather than a typical vacation option.

Industry analysts suggest that these price points are justified by the all-inclusive nature of the brand’s services, the intimacy of the vessel, and access to premium destinations efficiently. For high-net-worth individuals, the journey represents a seamless blend of world-class hospitality and multi-country exploration.

The presence of the Luminara serves as a strong indicator of Singapore’s growing prominence in the ultra-luxury travel circuit. As more high-end operators choose the port as their Southeast Asian anchor, local travelers gain unprecedented access to elite maritime exploration, redefining expectations for sea travel in the region.

Sentosa Island, Singapore—From now until January 4, 2024, Sentosa is hosting an immersive, island-wide transformation inspired by the highly anticipated film adaptation, Wicked: For Good, offering visitors dazzling lights, themed installations, and exclusive dining and attraction perks through a special collectible charm. This temporary spectacle, characterized by prominent emerald and pink décor, spans Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) and the broader island, integrating the film’s magical world into daily visitor experiences across dining, retail, and entertainment.

Unlocking the ‘Yours For Good’ Experience

The central feature of this limited-engagement event is the ‘Yours For Good’ Starter Charm, available with the purchase of a Resorts World Sentosa Wonder Experience or Sentosa Wander Pass package. More than a souvenir, this charm acts as an access key, providing priority entry to key attractions, exclusive retail discounts, and dining promotions across the island and RWS properties. For DBS/POSB cardmembers, the incentives intensify, offering a 10 percent discount on the aforementioned packages, plus access to over 60 DBS-exclusive deals with participating merchants, including restaurants, beach clubs, attractions, and hotels.

The integrated itinerary allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the “Good” experience from morning until night:

A Day of Wicked Wonder on Sentosa

The journey begins with refined luxury. Charm holders can skip queues at Pierre Hermé Paris Singapore, securing priority entry and a 10 percent discount on signature macarons and Parisian breakfast favorites like the croque-monsieur.

Midday focuses on cinematic immersion at Universal Studios Singapore (USS). Flashing the charm grants priority park admission, directing guests to the Hollywood zone, which has been recast in the aesthetic of Oz. Visitors can enjoy meet-and-greets with characters such as Elphaba and Glinda, and view iconic costumes at The Wardrobe of Wicked exhibit before purchasing exclusive merchandise at the Silver Screen Store.

For lunch, Osia Steak and Seafood Grill offers a Wicked-themed, Australian-flavored beef burger. Charm holders receive a 10 percent discount on the bill and enjoy a buy-one-get-one promotion on selected wines.

The afternoon calls for adventure and relaxation. Thrill-seekers can brave the wind at AltitudeX (previously iFly Singapore); DBS/POSB cardmembers receive up to 15 percent off Challenge Packages (minimum two purchased onsite). Alternatively, a leisurely ride down Skyline Luge Sentosa offers a Luge Charm keepsake for visitors who spend over S$100 in a single transaction.

Later in the afternoon, guests can indulge in the Bubble of Brilliance high tea set at Ocean Restaurant. This set features Wicked-inspired culinary delights, including butter-poached lobster rolls and sweet treats, available with a 10 percent discount for charm holders.

As evening descends, Tanjong Beach Club provides a perfect setting for sundowners, where DBS/POSB cardmembers receive a 10 percent discount on the total bill on weekdays. The highlight of the evening is the Limitless Lights: An Ozmopolitan Display of Music & Lights at the Lake of Dreams at RWS, with shows scheduled multiple times nightly.

The grand finale takes place at Sentosa Sensoryscape, which morphs into the Yellow Brick Road, illuminated and set to musical numbers from the film. Photo opportunities abound, from stepping into Glinda’s Bubble at Glow Garden to visiting the imposing, nine-meter Elphaba’s Hat at the Lookout Loop.

The night concludes with relaxed dining or accommodations. DBS/POSB cardmembers receive 15 percent off food at WET Deck or Woo Bar at W Singapore – Sentosa Cove. For those wishing to extend their stay, The Barracks Hotel Sentosa is offering 20 percent off its best available rate, providing an exceptional way to complete the Sentosa escapade before the event concludes in early January.

Singapore solidifies its position as a premier maritime hub with the imminent launch of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara superyacht, which designates the city-state as its home port starting this month. This significant move by the luxury hospitality brand introduces a new tier of high-end sea travel originating from and returning to Singapore, establishing a suite of exclusive, global itineraries for discerning travelers in the region, months ahead of other anticipated cruise launches.

A New Benchmark for Ultra-Luxury Cruises

The designation of Singapore as the Luminara’s key embarkation point means an immediate, substantial upgrade in available luxury cruise experiences in Southeast Asia. This launch precedes the arrival of the Disney Adventure Cruise, which, initially slated for late 2025, has been postponed to March 2026. The Luminara targets an entirely different demographic, redefining the traditional cruising model into an intimate, superyacht experience.

The vessel’s design philosophy starkly contrasts with large cruise liners, focusing on spaciousness and personalized indulgence. Every accommodation aboard the Luminara is a suite, featuring a private balcony to ensure uninterrupted ocean views—there are no interior, windowless cabins. Even the lowest-tier suites offer premium amenities designed for ultimate comfort, including a king-sized bed, a double vanity bathroom, continuous in-suite dining service, and a complimentary minibar tailored to the guest’s preferences.

Exquisite Amenities and Global Itineraries

The Luminara is equipped with luxury features one would expect from its renowned parent company. Guests can enjoy six distinct dining venues, including a high-end Korean concept and several casual options like a poolside bar. Wellness facilities include the signature Ritz-Carlton Spa, a fully equipped gym offering personalized nutrition consultations, a sophisticated open-deck bar, and a social lounge designed for intimate gatherings.

The itineraries focus on exotic, multi-country journeys across Asia. Destinations featured in current schedules include Hong Kong, the Maldives, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bali. The inaugural voyages from the region underscore the ultra-luxury pricing model. For example, a nine-night, one-way journey originating in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and concluding in Singapore—with stops in Galle, Port Blair, Phuket, and Langkawi—starts at approximately USD 9,800 (or roughly S$12,678) per guest.

This price point positions the Luminara firmly in the luxury expedition segment, emphasizing unparalleled service and a seamless, all-inclusive, multi-destination vacation experience. Experts suggest that for travelers seeking high-level service and privacy without the congestion of mega-ships, the cost represents value for a unique level of access and hospitality provided by a global top-tier brand.

Key Features Setting the Luminara Apart

• All-Suite Configuration: Every room includes a private balcony and ocean panorama.
• Personalized Service: Focus on 24-hour in-room dining and guest-specific preferences.
• Diverse Culinary: Six dining concepts, including specialist cuisine.
• Wellness Focus: Full spa, gym, and integrated nutrition guidance.

The arrival of the Luminara signals a growing confidence among global luxury brands in Singapore’s strategic appeal as an exclusive gateway to Asia. Travelers looking for the pinnacle of maritime luxury will find that this superyacht experience fundamentally shifts expectations of cruise travel, making standard voyages seem rudimentary by comparison. The launch offers an immediate and impactful boost to Singapore’s luxury tourism offerings, reinforcing its status as a critical hub for wealth and leisure travel in the hemisphere.

Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has announced extensive service interruptions on the Circle Line (CCL) for three months in early 2026, leading to significantly longer commutes for daily riders. Scheduled from January 17 to April 19, 2026, these delays stem from essential tunnel reinforcement works between the Mountbatten, Dakota, and Paya Lebar MRT stations. While commuters should brace for up to 30 minutes of added travel time, the LTA is launching dedicated shuttle services starting in early January 2026 to help mitigate the disruption and ensure long-term structural integrity ahead of the CCL’s anticipated full completion in 2026.

Structural Maintenance Spurs Major CCL Disruption

The upcoming 2026 works address a phenomenon known as “tunnel squatting,” a natural structural movement affecting certain sections of the CCL. According to the LTA, this condition is common in tunnels built through soft marine clay environments like Singapore, where soil pressures can cause minor deformation. Although officials insist the current situation poses no immediate safety risk, the reinforcement is mandatory to prevent potential future structural compromise.

This period of repair follows ongoing operational adjustments throughout late 2024 and 2025, which have included later starts and earlier endings on select weekends, all paving the way for the line’s eventual expansion and enhanced resilience.

The maintenance focus lies heavily on the underground route connecting Mountbatten, Dakota, and Paya Lebar. However, the resulting reduced track availability means the entire CCL network, including busy interchange stations like Bishan, Serangoon, and Buona Vista, will experience substantial slowdowns, particularly during peak commuter hours.

Commuters Must Expect Significant Delay Increases

Riders should radically adjust their expected travel times during the 93-day repair period. The LTA projects that the additional time spent waiting for trains could reach 30 minutes along certain routes.

To illustrate the increased travel burden, the LTA shared specific changes to train intervals:

• HarbourFront to Paya Lebar: Intervals will rise from two minutes to three minutes.
• Paya Lebar to Mountbatten: Intervals will experience the most drastic increase, jumping from three minutes to 10 minutes.
• Mountbatten to Dhoby Ghaut/Marina Bay: Intervals will lengthen from six minutes to 10 minutes.

Commuters are strongly advised to factor in this additional allowance or proactively seek alternative transportation options via parallel bus routes or different MRT lines.

Shuttle Services Offer Relief

Recognizing the impact of the delays, the LTA will introduce several dedicated shuttle bus services designed to manage passenger flow along the most congested sections. These ancillary services will start running two weeks prior to the major tunnel works, specifically on January 5, 2026, allowing commuters time to familiarize themselves with the new options.

Key shuttle routes include:

• Service 38: Operating between Paya Lebar and Stadium MRT stations during morning (6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.) and evening (5 p.m. to 8 p.m.) peaks.
• Service 37A: A one-way morning service (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.) connecting Serangoon to Tai Seng, Macpherson, and Paya Lebar.
• Service 37B/37C: One-way evening services (5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.) designed for commuters traveling out of Tai Seng toward Bishan (37B) and Serangoon (37C).

While utilizing these shuttle buses will alleviate crowding on the trains, these supplementary services are not free. Fares will be calculated based on the standard distance model, generally aligning with regular train charges.

Ultimately, these short-term operational hurdles are a necessary prelude to the CCL’s full circle completion in 2026, which promises improved connectivity across the island’s southern region, delivering long-term benefits to Singapore’s public transit ecosystem.

Suntory, the prominent Japanese spirits brand, expands its presence in Singapore this month with the debut of Barrel Story of Hibiki, a whisky-centric bar and restaurant. Located at 19 Cecil Street, this new establishment marks the first-ever Hibiki whisky concept venue outside of Japan. Opening on December 6, the refined space offers a deep immersion into Suntory’s revered whisky portfolio, paired with a contemporary izakaya dining experience conceptualized by chef Sho Naganuma. The launch closely follows Suntory’s recent collaboration in Singapore with the Jigger & Pony Group on Pop City X Pony, reinforcing the brand’s strategic investment in the city-state’s dynamic food and beverage landscape.

A Sophisticated Sanctuary for Whisky Enthusiasts

Barrel Story of Hibiki occupies the former location of American grill-house Rosemead. The interior design leans toward a sleek, modern aesthetic, moving away from the typical boisterous izakaya atmosphere. Custom elements include dark wood paneling, metal accents, and textured stone finishes, creating a dimly lit, upscale ambiance.

The venue features four distinct zones:

• A main dining room accommodating 83 guests.
• A 10-seat bar counter.
• A 50-seater outdoor terrace.
• The Vault, an exclusive eight-seater private tasting room.

The Vault offers an intimate whisky experience, with walls lined with cask wood sourced directly from Suntory’s distilleries in Japan, subtly imparting the scent of aged spirits.

Curated Whisky Flights and Creative Cocktails

The drinks program is the cornerstone of Barrel Story of Hibiki, showcasing one of Asia’s most comprehensive selections of Suntory whiskies. Patrons can find rare expressions of Hibiki, including the iconic 21 and 30 Years Old alongside the standard Japanese Harmony blend. Notably, the establishment is one of the few places in Singapore offering Hibiki by the glass.

Central to the experience are the curated whisky flights, with six options available at launch. Prices vary widely, catering to diverse budgets. The $38 Story of Hibiki flight features Hibiki Japanese Harmony served three ways: as a highball, neat on the rocks, and in the traditional mizuwari (diluted with water). For the ultra-premium palate, the menu includes a $188 Hibiki 100th Anniversary Edition flight and The Barrel, priced at $988.

Cocktail aficionados will be delighted by a list of 16 signature creations. Eight of these feature Hibiki whisky prominently, offering innovative takes on classics. Highlights include a reimagined Hibiki-based Singapore Sling ($28) and the tart Japanese Crane Sour ($28), made with Hibiki and orange liqueur.

Culinary Program Bridges Izakaya and Local Flavors

The dining menu, developed by chef-partner Sho Naganuma—co-owner of Torasho Ramen—blends modern izakaya fare with wood-fired dishes. Diners can select from multi-course set lunch options ($55 for two courses, $63 for three courses) and a $68 signature set dinner.

The menu introduces inventive interpretations of familiar dishes. The Barrel Chicken Rice uses poached French chicken paired with Japanese rice cooked in chicken fat, accented by a unique Hibiki oyster sauce and shiro negi sauce. Guests can also savor the Tsujihan Don ($28), a spin on a popular negitoro don featuring salted herring roe and ikura. Chef Naganuma also incorporates several Torasho favorites, including his celebrated tonkatsu ramen.

Barrel Story of Hibiki provides Singapore’s discerning dining and nightlife community with a refined destination that elevates the whisky experience beyond standard bar service, positioning itself as a new hub for Japanese culinary and spirit culture. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday, from noon to 11 p.m.

A prominent fixture in Singapore’s Teochew dining scene, East Ocean Teochew Restaurant, is preparing to close its doors permanently on December 28, 2025, concluding a 33-year legacy of serving traditional Chinese cuisine and handmade dim sum. Located at Ngee Ann City’s Takashimaya Shopping Centre since 2012 (after a 20-year run at Shaw Centre), the restaurant’s closure is notable because its management cites succession planning challenges rather than the typical financial pressures afflicting many contemporary food and beverage establishments. Loyal patrons will have one final opportunity to experience its signature dishes before the end-of-year closure.

A Legacy Defined By Tradition, Not Trepidation

For decades, East Ocean has been a celebrated destination for family gatherings and festive dining, renowned for its commitment to authentic Teochew culinary techniques. Unlike recent high-profile closures in Singapore’s dining sector—such as The Privé Group outlets or concepts like Eggslut—East Ocean’s departure stems from internal, generational considerations.

The restaurant features a farewell message on its official website, explaining that its decision results from the advanced age of its shareholders and management, coupled with a lack of suitable successors to inherit and operate the demanding business. This unique rationale underscores a growing challenge for many long-established, family-run enterprises in an increasingly competitive and evolving market.

East Ocean is particularly famous for its exquisite, labor-intensive offerings, including traditional mooncakes, dumplings, and especially its signature handmade dim sum, some of which are playfully crafted into animal shapes. The restaurant cultivated a reputation for preserving detailed culinary artistry, distinguishing it from mass-market competitors.

Final Farewell and Patron Appreciation

In appreciation of its three decades of steadfast customer loyalty, the restaurant is rolling out special promotional offers leading up to the final operating day. These deals encompass select menu items and traditional Chinese New Year cakes, providing customers an opportunity to relive favored dining moments.

The restaurant currently operates on a walk-in basis for dining, as reservations are temporarily suspended for the final weeks of operation. Patrons wishing to visit East Ocean Teochew Restaurant one last time should head to its location at #05-08/09, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, Ngee Ann City.

The closure of East Ocean represents not just the exit of a popular brand, but the loss of a cultural anchor for many local families. It highlights the increasingly complex dynamics surrounding ownership transitions in Singapore’s heritage dining sphere, where passion and skill must eventually meet the practical demands of modern business continuity. The restaurant’s legacy will lie in its unwavering dedication to preserving traditional Teochew flavors throughout its distinguished 33-year tenure.

Related Reading:

• Explore the newest restaurant openings in Singapore this December 2025.
• The market impact of Korean Hanwoo beef being made available in Singapore.

American fast-food giant Chick-fil-A is set to open its doors to customers in Singapore on Thursday, December 11, 2025, marking the chain’s highly anticipated debut in Asia. Located on the first floor of the Bugis+ mall along Victoria Street, the store is expected to draw substantial crowds eager to experience the brand’s signature chicken sandwiches and unique offerings tailored for the local market. Ahead of the grand opening, a sneak peek revealed a menu blending perennial favorites with exclusive Singapore adaptations, along with a design aesthetic elevated beyond typical quick-service restaurants.

Design and Ambiance at Bugis+

The new location at Bugis+ aims to offer a refined fast-food experience. The space features a bright, well-lit environment accented by light wood and the brand’s signature red hues. While operational elements include standard service counters and digital ordering kiosks, the overall ambience is noticeably upscale.

Key design elements elevate the space, including comfortable booth seating, modern vintage light fixtures, and unique artistic touches. Notably, the store showcases local appreciation through a mural depicting recognizable Singapore landmarks in the main dining hall, along with a feature wall incorporating flattened Coca-Cola bottles, creating a localized yet contemporary atmosphere.

Culinary Offerings: Classics Meet Local Flavors

The menu synthesizes Chick-fil-A’s core products with choices catering to the discerning Singapore palate. Diners can select from five sandwiches, three salads, and six sauces. Meal combos, which start at $11.80, include the chain’s famous waffle fries and a soft drink. Options are available to substitute the fries for macaroni and cheese (additional $1.70) or a side salad (additional $0.70).

The mainstay Original Chicken Sandwich ($6.80 à la carte) features a deep-fried chicken breast fillet complemented by dill pickle chips. For those seeking spice, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich ($6.90 à la carte) utilizes a seasoned breading. More substantial options like the Chick-fil-A Deluxe and Spicy Deluxe ($8.00–$8.10 à la carte) add lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Catering to health-conscious consumers, the menu includes a Grilled Chicken Sandwich ($9.50 à la carte) served on a multigrain brioche bun, and salads ($12.50 each) featuring mixed greens and various chicken preparations.

The Chick-fil-A nugget, branded locally as “pops,” features tender pieces of real chicken breast, contrasting with the often-processed meat found elsewhere ($6.90 for eight pieces).

The Essential Sauce Selection

Sauces are integral to the Chick-fil-A experience. The Singapore outlet offers six flavors, highlighted by the beloved Chick-fil-A sauce. Intriguingly, a Spicy Chili sauce has been developed as a Singapore-exclusive offering, only available at this location. Other options include Garden Herb Ranch, Honey Mustard, Sweet & Spicy Sriracha, and Barbeque.

Beverages and Indulgences

Beyond standard soft drinks, the beverage selection includes regular and diet lemonade ($4.50+), freshly brewed iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened, $3.80+), and the signature Sunjoy ($4.50+), a mixture of lemonade and iced tea.

The menu also features quintessential American milkshakes ($6.90 each), available in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and cookies and cream, all topped with whipped cream and a Maraschino cherry.

Market Impact and Future Outlook

While meal prices are notably higher than those of typical quick-service meals in Singapore, the opening is anticipated to draw sustained interest, driven by the brand’s global reputation and its status as the continent’s first outlet. The arrival of Chick-fil-A underscores Singapore’s continued role as a prime regional launchpad for international Food and Beverage (F&B) brands.

The American chicken chain follows other notable recent entries, including French patisserie Pierre Hermé and Australian dessert chain Yo-Chi, further diversifying the city’s dynamic culinary landscape. Industry observers note that the success of these inaugural locations often dictates further regional expansion strategies.

Chick-fil-A Singapore is located at 201 Victoria St, Bugis+, #01-19, Singapore 188067, operating Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. In adherence to its long-standing corporate policy, the store will be closed on Sundays.

Singaporean author Khir Johari’s seminal 2021 work, The Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels through the Archipelago, recently secured the highest recognition at the renowned Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, earning the coveted Best Of All title. This extraordinary achievement, which represents the ultimate accolade in the award’s 30-year history, further solidifies the book’s status as a crucial document of culture and history, extending beyond its function as a mere culinary guide.

A Decade of Dedicated Research Pays Off

The book, which culminated from 11 years of intensive fieldwork and research by Khir Johari, has consistently garnered international praise since its launch. Prior to this latest win, the title was recognized as the Best in the World in 2023 and captured the Best of the Best in Food Culture earlier in 2025. This sustained global recognition underscores the growing international appreciation for Singaporean Malay culinary heritage.

Johari emphasizes that the volume is more than a collection of recipes. “This is not a cookbook. It is the story of a people,” the author posits, highlighting the book’s profound cultural mission. While The Food of Singapore Malays does feature over 30 traditional recipes, its primary strength lies in its extensive compilation of history, cultural narratives, intricate illustrations, and historical photographs detailing the genesis and evolution of Singaporean Malay gastronomy.

Elevating Food as Cultural Heritage

The latest Best of All award highlights the significant global impact of documenting foodways as cultural heritage. Khir Johari shared his deep satisfaction with the recognition, stating that the most meaningful outcome is knowing that the food traditions of the region are being “seen and understood in a deeper, more nuanced way.”

The author expressed optimism that his work would inspire others to preserve and document their own histories. By framing the culinary traditions within their broader historical and societal context, Johari offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the communal identity and migration patterns that shaped the contemporary Malay palate. This interdisciplinary approach elevates the book beyond the typical cookbook genre, positioning it as an essential piece of scholarship on Southeast Asian culture.

Accessing Singaporean Malay Foodways

For those interested in exploring this celebrated work, The Food of Singapore Malays: Gastronomic Travels through the Archipelago offers an invaluable window into a rich cultural history. The volume is available for purchase through major regional retailers, including Books Kinokuniya and Wardah Books.

This landmark publication encourages culinary enthusiasts and social historians alike to view local cuisines not just as dining options but as living archives of human experience, history, and communal identity. As global interest in regional food cultures intensifies, Johari’s work serves as a powerful model for comprehensive culinary documentation.

Singapore is cementing its status as a global culinary hub with the highly anticipated debut of the United States fast-food phenomenon Chick-fil-A, marking the chain’s inaugural location in Asia. The Bugis+ outlet, situated on the first floor at 201 Victoria Street, is set to open its doors on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 10 a.m. Local residents, American expatriates, and curious food enthusiasts are expected to form substantial queues for a taste of the brand’s famous chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. A recent press preview offered a detailed look at the establishment’s ambiance, menu offerings, and exclusive local twists.

Elevated Ambience and Design Details

The new Chick-fil-A store on the ground level of Bugis+ features a clean, professional aesthetic that elevates it beyond typical fast-food environments. The design employs a bright palette with light wood accents and the brand’s signature red colouration. While standard service elements, including ordering counters and digital kiosks, are present, the space incorporates unique fixtures to appeal to Singaporean sensibilities. These include comfortable booth seating, striking vintage-inspired lighting, and a distinct feature wall adorned with recycled Coca-Cola bottles. Notably, a large mural depicting iconic Singaporean landmarks runs along the main dining hall, providing a localized touch to the American chain.

Menu Highlights and Singapore Exclusives

The menu successfully merges Chick-fil-A’s classic offerings with options tailored for the local palate. Meals begin at S$11.80, covering a selection of five burgers, three salads, and several distinct sauces. Standard meal sets include a signature chicken sandwich, waffle fries, and a soft drink, with options to upgrade the side to mac and cheese (S$1.70 extra) or a side salad (S$0.70 extra).

The classic Original Chicken Sandwich (S$6.80 a la carte; S$11.80 as a meal) features a succulent, deep-fried chicken breast patty topped with dill pickle chips, lauded for its simple yet satisfying texture. Spice enthusiasts can opt for the Spicy Chicken Sandwich or more substantial deluxe versions, which add lettuce, tomato, and cheese. For health-conscious diners, the Grilled Chicken Sandwich (S$9.50 a la carte; S$14.50 as a meal) served on a multigrain brioche bun, and various mixed green salads (S$12.50 each) are available.

Signature Condiments

Integral to the Chick-fil-A experience are its sauces, and the Singapore location offers six varieties. A key exclusive for the Bugis+ venue is the Spicy Chilli sauce. The full sauce lineup includes:

• Chick-fil-A Sauce (Original signature)
• Spicy Chilli (Singapore Exclusive)
• Garden Herb Ranch
• Honey Mustard
• Sweet & Spicy Sriracha
• Barbeque

Beverages and Indulgences

Beyond standard soft drinks, the beverage menu features Chick-fil-A’s famous Lemonade, available in regular and diet versions (starting from S$4.50), freshly brewed iced tea (S$3.80), and the popular Sunjoy, a fusion of lemonade and iced tea (starting from S$4.50). For dessert, four indulgent milkshake flavors—vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and cookies and cream—are offered (S$6.90 each), served topped with traditional whipped cream and a Maraschino cherry.

Market Impact and Future Outlook

While meal prices are positioned on the higher end relative to portion sizes in Singapore’s competitive fast-food market—with the most basic set exceeding S$10—the novelty and brand reputation are expected to drive significant traffic. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with the notable exception of being closed on Sundays, adhering to the chain’s long-standing company policy.

The arrival of Chick-fil-A underscores Singapore’s appeal as the primary gateway for international food and beverage conglomerates looking to establish a presence in the Asian market. This successful entry follows other major international brands landing in Singapore this year, including French patisserie Pierre Hermé and Australian frozen yogurt chain Yo-Chi, further diversifying the city-state’s dynamic culinary landscape. Readers can learn more about Singapore’s exploding food scene by following local dining news.