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Singapore is preparing to host a major cultural event with the announcement of the world’s most extensive exhibition dedicated to celebrated Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Titled “Botero in Singapore,” the landmark show will feature over 130 original pieces—encompassing paintings, drawings, indoor sculptures, and massive bronze works—making it the artist’s sole Southeast Asian stop and the largest collection of his work ever assembled globally. Taking place across multiple venues, including the newly launched IMBA Theatre and the scenic Gardens by the Bay, the exhibition offers an immersive journey into the signature aesthetic of Boterismo, exploring volume, sensuality, and classical composition across the artist’s seven-decade career.

Decoding Boterismo: A Multivenue Masterpiece

The Singapore exhibition is structured into several interconnected components, ensuring a comprehensive view of Botero’s legacy. This rollout simultaneously launches IMBA’s debut, positioning the new venue as a major cultural player in the region, ready to host future highly anticipated shows like the Southeast Asian premiere of “David Hockney: Bigger & Closer.”

Heart of Volume: The Retrospective

The core of the exhibition, “Heart of Volume,” presents 118 works sourced directly from the Botero family collection. This comprehensive survey traces the evolution of Botero’s unique style, characterized by exaggerated, voluminous figures. The pieces on display span from early, rarely seen watercolors to monumental canvases, many of which are making their Singapore premiere. Visitors will observe the distinct influence of modern masters like Picasso intertwined with Botero’s enduring appreciation for classical artistry, all expressed through his distinctive use of scale.

Life in Fullness: The Immersive Experience

Marking a global first, the exhibition introduces “Life in Fullness,” a 45-minute immersive audiovisual presentation. Narrated by the artist’s son, the experience utilizes animation, archival footage, and intimate storytelling to humanize Botero, presenting him not just as an artistic force but as a father, a rebel, and an individual whose perspective brought humor and depth to the art world. This component offers essential context for understanding the man behind the voluminous curves.

Public Art and Culinary Connections

Botero, a vocal proponent of placing art in public spaces, ensured that a significant portion of the exhibition embraced the outdoors. This commitment is realized through Garden Grandeur, which features ten monumental bronze sculptures strategically placed throughout the exhibition footprint. Six of these iconic, oversized figures are situated within the lush environment of Gardens by the Bay’s Silver Leaf Garden, while the remaining four anchor the IMBA Theatre grounds.

For enthusiasts seeking to extend the Botero experience beyond the canvas, Shangri-La Singapore is hosting a special Botero-inspired afternoon tea service. Available between January 8 and March 1, 2026, the menu translates the artist’s playful spirit and vibrant forms into a selection of sweet and savory confections.

Planning Your Visit

While the venues are confirmed, specific dates for the start of the Botero exhibition have yet to be publicly announced. Interested attendees are advised to monitor the IMBA Global website and local arts publications for updates. This massive presentation not only serves as a tribute to one of the world’s most recognizable artists but also firmly establishes Singapore as a major hub for international arts and culture in Asia. The scale and rarity of the works ensure this will be a must-see event for both seasoned art collectors and casual museum-goers.

Filipino actress and vocal powerhouse Lea Salonga, globally recognized for her Tony Award-winning Broadway roles and as the singing voice of iconic Disney princesses, is set to perform in Singapore, marking her first return after over ten years. From March 20 to 22, 2024, Salonga will headline a series of concerts titled Stage, Screen & Everything In Between at the prestigious Esplanade Theatre, showcasing the breadth of her distinguished career alongside a string ensemble and her band. Fans can anticipate an evening of celebrated hits spanning musical theater classics, beloved Disney soundtracks, and contemporary pop favorites.

Celebrating a Career of Firsts

Salonga’s career is defined by groundbreaking achievements in both the East and West. She first gained international acclaim for her captivating performance as Kim in the original London and Broadway productions of Miss Saigon, a role that earned her a Tony Award in 1991. Subsequently, she broke barriers on Broadway as the first Asian actress to play Eponine in Les Misérables, later returning to the 2006 revival as Fantine. These roles solidified her status as a global musical theater icon.

Her vocal prowess transcends the stage, notably serving as the singing voice for two of Disney’s most cherished characters: Princess Jasmine in the 1992 animated classic Aladdin and Fa Mulan in both Mulan (1998) and Mulan II. Her indelible contribution to the Disney cannon earned her the official title of “Disney Legend.” More recently, she continues to lend her voice to new projects, including the character Celine in the Netflix hit K-Pop Demon Hunters.

An Evening of Iconic Vocal Hits

The Stage, Screen & Everything In Between concert series promises a curated selection of music highlighting these significant career milestones. Audiences will be treated to songs from her most famous roles in Miss Saigon and Les Misérables, alongside the unforgettable melodies from Aladdin and Mulan. Furthermore, the two-hour performance, which includes one intermission, will feature Broadway standards and selected pop tracks, bridging the gap between musical theater and contemporary sounds.

Salonga will be accompanied by her touring band, with the addition of a special string ensemble featuring members of the Singapore Lyric Opera Chamber Orchestra, ensuring a rich, full sound befitting the Esplanade Theatre.

Concert Schedule and Ticketing Details

The limited engagement runs for three days with the following schedule:

• Mar. 20 (Evening)
• Mar. 21 (Evening)
• Mar. 22 (Matinee and Evening)

Tickets are currently available for purchase through the Esplanade’s official ticketing channels. Prices range from S$60 to S$210, offering various seating options to experience the celebrated vocalist live. Given her rarity on the Singapore stage and devoted global following, securing tickets promptly is highly advisable.

This return engagement offers Singaporean audiences a rare opportunity to witness one of the world’s finest vocalists perform the music that has defined generations on both stage and screen. Her enduring artistry continues to inspire aspiring performers and delight fans worldwide.

Singapore’s luxury lifestyle landscape just gained a unique culinary outpost as the prestigious German camera manufacturer, Leica, introduces the only Café Leitz in Southeast Asia. Located within the brand-new flagship store at South Beach Quarter, this refined café concept reintroduces a blend of high-end photography and authentic German gastronomy, positioning itself as a quietly sophisticated retreat in the bustling business district. Following a brief hiatus since the closure of its previous iteration at Raffles Hotel, the revamped Café Leitz opened its doors in late 2025, solidifying the trend of global luxury brands extending their reach into Singapore’s competitive F&B scene.

A Return of Camera-Brand Cuisine

While fashion powerhouses such as Coach, Prada, and Ralph Lauren have successfully launched branded coffee shops internationally and in Singapore, the realm of camera-affiliated dining had remained vacant since the initial closure of the Leica Store. The return of Café Leitz fills this niche, operating daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. within the striking new retail location along Beach Road. The café provides more than just a place to wait for a camera repair; it offers an immersive environment where photography aficionados and casual diners can appreciate the brand’s heritage.

The interior design embraces a minimalist aesthetic, featuring a light wood palette that creates a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. This setting is ideal for patrons browsing the curated selection of photography books lining the shelves or simply capturing their own “vibey” food photographs—a natural fit, given the establishment’s pedigree.

Authentic German Offerings

A deliberate nod to Leica’s German origins, the menu focuses on light bites and confections infused with distinct European flavors. The savory selections center primarily on robust, German-style sandwiches. Highlights include Porktoberfest, a hearty stack layered with smoked pork collar, tangy apple sauerkraut, and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Seafood lovers might gravitate toward The Big Lox, which combines generous slices of smoked salmon with fresh dill and pickled cucumber, while the Berlin Wurst offers a classic sausage-filled stack. These specialty sandwiches are designed to pair perfectly with the café’s selection of coffees and iced teas, many finished with a signature cold foam.

For dessert, the counter showcases a selection of tempting cakes and pastries. Staples include the rich and satisfying Choconana, a decadent chocolate and banana combination. Patrons seeking a brighter, zestier finish can try the Lime Solero, a citrusy treat that evokes nostalgic childhood ice cream flavors. Another notable confection is the playfully named 24 Carrot Gold, a moist carrot cake featuring delicate mousseline, rounding out the European-inspired patisserie.

More Than Coffee: An Experience

The opening of Café Leitz underscores a broader shift in the retail landscape, where flagship stores are evolving into experiential hubs. By integrating a unique dining concept that reflects the brand’s heritage, Leica offers visitors a tactile connection beyond the purchase of optics and cameras.

Located within the South Beach Quarter, Café Leitz is poised to become a destination for sophisticated lunches and mid-afternoon breaks for professionals and tourists alike. Patrons looking to discover more about the cafe’s offerings and operating hours can find information via the Café Leitz Singapore Instagram page, cementing its status as Singapore’s exclusive portal into the cross-section of German precision and café culture.

Visitors crossing the Causeway from Singapore to Malaysia will soon navigate Johor Bahru (JB) with unprecedented ease, thanks to a new, complimentary shuttle bus service launching in early 2026. This initiative, featuring silent, eco-friendly electric vehicles, aims to broaden tourist access beyond familiar shopping centers and introduce travelers to historical and cultural gems across the state capital, bolstering the Visit Johor 2026 tourism campaign. Operating daily from morning until evening, the 20-seater shuttle connects eight key points, offering a zero-cost, efficient way to explore JB’s evolving urban landscape.

Discovering Johor Bahru Beyond the Causeway Hotspots

The introduction of the free shuttle bus marks the latest step in Johor Bahru’s aggressive public transport overhaul, which already includes new direct bus routes to the Johor Premium Outlets (JPO) and plans for a high-speed rail link to Kuala Lumpur by late 2025. This dedicated city loop is designed to encourage deeper exploration, moving tourists beyond routine cross-border trips.

The daily service will run between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., utilizing a fleet of electric buses. A state official confirmed that the route has undergone extensive trial runs to ensure reliable, seamless service for both residents and visitors.

The shuttle route strategically links popular commercial hubs like Komtar JBCC and cultural destinations such as the Johor Zoo. Crucially, it also taps into sites that may be unfamiliar to casual day-trippers, providing a perfect entry point for discovering the city’s rich heritage. Stops include the majestic Sultan Ibrahim Building and the reimagined former prison complex, Kota Jail, now serving as an innovative creative center.

Essential Route Guide for the Free JB Shuttle

The fully integrated route ensures that travelers can effortlessly jump between historical landmarks and modern attractions. The key stops include:

• Johor Tourist Information Centre (JOTIC)
• 0km Landmark
• Komtar JBCC (A major retail hub)
• Galeria @ Kotaraya
• Sultan Ibrahim Building (A prominent historical structure)
• Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex
• Johor Zoo
• Kota Jail (The former prison complex)

This structured itinerary allows tourists to maximize their time, offering unparalleled access to sites that reflect both colonial history and contemporary Malaysian culture.

A Strategic Move for Johor’s Tourism Future

The state government initiated the free shuttle service as a core component of the wider Visit Johor 2026 campaign, leveraging accessible transport infrastructure to boost visitor numbers and local spending. By removing the cost barrier of transport, officials hope to incentivize tourists to linger longer and venture farther into the city.

However, a key question remains regarding the service’s longevity. While it is confirmed for the duration of the 2026 tourism push, officials have not yet clarified whether the free shuttles will continue operating based on future demand once the campaign concludes.

The anticipation surrounding this service underscores the broader revitalization taking place in JB. The new transport links coincide with significant commercial developments, including the extensive overhaul of City Square Mall, which is scheduled to reopen toward the end of 2027 with new amenities such as a hotel and an adventure park. Should the free shuttle prove successful, it could become a permanent fixture, cementing Johor Bahru’s status as a top-tier, easily navigable destination for regional travelers.

Travelers seeking sophisticated regional connections should also note the recent upgrades in cross-border accessibility, including luxury sleeper trains now linking Singapore and Malaysia, complementing the new local infrastructure aimed at increasing connectivity and enhancing the overall travel experience.

The convergence of luxury retail and fine dining in Singapore has steadily included high-fashion brands, spanning Coach, Prada, and Ralph Lauren, each establishing stylish, branded cafés. Breaking the mold, the camera brand Leica has re-entered this exclusive scene, relaunching its unique culinary concept, Café Leitz. Located within the new Leica flagship store at South Beach Quarter, this café revives a distinct pairing that was briefly absent, offering patrons a curated taste of authentic German cuisine and a tranquil spot in the busy central business district (CBD). Opened following the brand’s return to a major retail presence in late 2025, Café Leitz is currently the only establishment of its kind in Southeast Asia.

German Culinary Heritage Meets Singapore’s Dining Scene

Café Leitz pays homage to its German origins by specializing in sophisticated, yet approachable, cuisine that complements the brand’s heritage. The menu centers primarily on light, German-inspired sandwiches and artisanal beverages.

Key savory offerings include options that playfully reference German culture:

• Porktoberfest: A hearty sandwich featuring smoked pork collar, a blend of traditional apple sauerkraut, and melted Monterey Jack cheese.
• The Big Lox: A classic combination of smoked salmon, fresh dill, and tangy pickled cucumber.
• Berlin Wurst: A substantial, stacked sandwich showcasing premium sausage.

These sandwiches are paired alongside a selection of specialty coffees and iced teas, often topped with refreshing cold foam.

Indulgent Desserts and Modern Ambiance

The café also features a delectable dessert counter, showcasing an array of cakes and pastries designed for both comfort and creative flare. Notable choices include:

• Choconana: A decadent, rich confection of chocolate and banana.
• Lime Solero: Offering a zesty, tart profile reminiscent of nostalgic citrus ice creams.
• 24 Carrot Gold: A playful take on carrot cake, layered with a light, airy mousseline.

The interior design of Café Leitz emphasizes a relaxed, minimalist environment. The space utilizes a bright, light wood palette, creating an optimal setting for browsing the selection of photography books adorning the shelves. This simple, elegant aesthetic encourages patrons to unwind and provides a perfect background for capturing “vibey” food photographs.

A New Focal Point in the CBD

The reopening of Café Leitz follows the closure of its original iteration alongside the former Leica Store at Raffles Hotel. Its new location within the flagship store at South Beach Quarter, along Beach Road, strategically places it directly within a key business and lifestyle hub.

The café operates daily, welcoming guests from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. This new establishment not only underscores Singapore’s position as a premier retail destination but also highlights the growing trend of lifestyle brands utilizing food and beverage concepts to enhance the overall customer experience and brand identity. For enthusiasts of photography, design, or fine European comfort food, Café Leitz offers a distinctive, globally inspired respite in the heart of the city.

Planning Your Visit

• Location: Leica flagship store, South Beach Quarter, Beach Road.
• Concept: German-inspired light fare and specialty coffee.
• Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Travelers crossing the Causeway can anticipate dramatically simplified exploration of Johor Bahru (JB) starting in early 2026, thanks to the introduction of a new, complimentary shuttle bus service. This initiative, featuring silent, eco-friendly electric vehicles, aims to connect visitors with eight key cultural and commercial destinations across the city center daily, encouraging deeper engagement with the Malaysian state as part of the ambitious Visit Johor 2026 campaign. The service represents the latest public transport enhancement in the region, following upgrades like direct bus routes to Johor Premium Outlets and the upcoming high-speed rail link to Kuala Lumpur.

Unlocking Johor Bahru’s Hidden Gems

Slated to commence operation at the beginning of 2026, the free shuttle service will run daily between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. utilizing 20-seater electric buses. The state-backed program is designed to simplify movement between high-traffic areas and less-familiar cultural sites, transforming quick day trips into meaningful urban explorations.

A Johor state official confirmed that the system has already undergone multiple trial runs to ensure seamless operation for commuters. While established hubs like Komtar JBCC and the Johor Zoo are included, the route also introduces tourists to historic landmarks often overlooked by casual visitors.

The comprehensive loop covers essential points of interest, allowing visitors to easily navigate the city without needing private transport or taxis. This approach is particularly valuable for those seeking to move beyond typical shopping and dining areas.

Key Stops on the Shuttle Route

The free shuttle offers a compelling itinerary showcasing JB’s diversity:

• Johor Tourist Information Centre (JOTIC)
• 0km Landmark
• Komtar JBCC
• Galeria @ Kotaraya
• Sultan Ibrahim Building
• Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex
• Johor Zoo
• Kota Jail

The inclusion of destinations like the impressive Sultan Ibrahim Building, a majestic historical structure, and Kota Jail—a former prison currently being reimagined as a creative complex—provides a superb opportunity for travelers to experience the state’s rich heritage firsthand.

A Sustainable Approach to Tourism Growth

The timing of the shuttle launch coincides with significant infrastructure investment across JB. The use of eco-friendly electric buses aligns with broader regional initiatives promoting sustainability in public transport, contributing to cleaner air quality in the central tourist zone.

While this new service is officially part of the Visit Johor 2026 initiative, attracting global and regional visitors remains paramount. It remains uncertain whether the free service will continue past the end of 2026; however, sustained demand during the campaign could certainly solidify its long-term future. Its continuation would be a welcome bonus for commuters when the extensively revamped and expanded City Square Mall reopens, slated for late 2027.

The free shuttle is more than just a transportation service; it serves as a calculated effort to reposition Johor Bahru as an accessible, multi-faceted destination ready for intimate exploration. Travelers are encouraged to utilize this hassle-free convenience to spend more time discovering the authentic character of the Malaysian city.

South Korea’s celebrated grilled chicken restaurant, Song Gye Ok, has dramatically expanded its presence in Singapore with the official opening of its second outlet at The Centrepoint. Following its successful debut in the Telok Ayer district last year, the eatery, known for its focus on premium poultry cuts and expertly executed charcoal grilling, is now making its “heavenly” experience accessible to a wider audience. This expansion solidifies Singapore’s reputation as a key hub for authentic, high-quality Korean culinary experiences.

The Cult of the Charcoal Grill

Song Gye Ok, often frequented by prominent K-drama stars, has built a loyal following around its unique presentation of chicken, encapsulated by its bold tagline, “Waiting in Hell, Tasting in Heaven.” The core of the dining experience centers on precision charcoal grilling, where chefs prepare specialty cuts individually at interactive stations, ensuring optimal juiciness, texture, and flavor.

The restaurant elevates standard poultry into a sophisticated offering by specializing in six distinct anatomical cuts. Diners can explore rare options ranging from delicate neck fillets and softbone breast to the surprisingly rich chicken heart. Each piece is meticulously cooked over a searing charcoal fire, delivering a smoky depth that traditional methods often miss.

Beyond the grill, Song Gye Ok offers comfort in the form of elevated traditional Korean soups. A highly recommended choice is the Dageomtang, a rich, 12-hour slow-simmered chicken soup boasting a collagen-intensive broth, served alongside roasted chicken pieces and fresh regional vegetables.

Innovative Soups and Signature Flavors

Further diversifying its menu, the new outlet features an all-day collaboration menu with MODU centered around the classic Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). This limited-time offering introduces creative interpretations of the nourishing dish:

• Truffle Samgyetang: An earthy twist for upscale dining.
• Perilla Seed Samgyetang: A comforting bowl marked by a deep, nutty flavor profile.
• Hangover Samgyetang: Spiced with a proprietary sauce, targeting a restorative effect.
• Hanbang Samgyetang: Rooted in classic herbal medicine principles.

Patrons should also consider the restaurant’s staple dishes, including the expansive Assorted Grilled Chicken Platter, savory SGO Cheongguk Doenjang Stew, and fresh, hand-cut Kalguksu (knife-cut noodles). To complement the cuisine, a selection of house-crafted beverages, such as the fragrant Earl Grey Highball and the sweet, traditional rice drink Nurungji Sikhye, are available.

Bringing Old Seoul Charm to Singapore

The dining environment at The Centrepoint meticulously mirrors the dedication to authenticity found in the kitchen. The interior is designed with a hanok-inspired aesthetic, channeling the atmosphere of traditional old Seoul. Warm wood tones, subtle latticework, and the presence of open charcoal grills create an interactive, enveloping culinary space. This design philosophy is intended to transport guests, offering a holistic Korean dining journey that engages all the senses, not just the palate.

Song Gye Ok’s rapid expansion in Singapore underscores the growing demand for specialized, high-quality Asian dining concepts. The new Centrepoint location is set to become a destination for both dedicated K-food enthusiasts and casual diners seeking an authentic taste of sophisticated Korean grilling.

Singapore’s dynamic Bugis district, celebrated for its blend of vibrant street art, independent retail, and historical shophouses, welcomes the debut of Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore. Formerly the InterContinental Singapore, this establishment officially rebranded and opened its doors on January 7, 2026, following a strategic partnership between Frasers Hospitality and Marriott International. The comprehensive transformation aims to establish the five-star property as a culturally immersive and design-forward destination, perfectly situated to explore the neighborhood’s rich heritage and contemporary buzz.

Rebirth in Singapore’s Cultural Epicenter

The hotel’s prime location is central to its appeal. Guests benefit from immediate access to the Bugis MRT station and are mere steps away from cultural landmarks, including the historic Arab Street, Kampong Glam, and the sprawling Bras Basah Bugis arts district. This accessibility positions Frasers House as an ideal launchpad for both leisure and business travelers seeking to engage with Singapore’s arts and culinary scenes.

The architectural and interior design evolution anchors the building’s history while embracing a modern aesthetic. The hotel’s distinct personality draws heavily on local Peranakan-inspired heritage—the unique cultural fusion of early Chinese immigrants and the Malay community. Designers integrated clean lines and subtle artisanal details into the decor, creating a sophisticated environment that reflects Bugis’ layered history.

The revitalization is being executed in phases, ensuring the hotel remains operational while enhancements are underway. Upon completion, the property will boast over 400 meticulously redesigned rooms and suites, each intended to echo the unique spirit and vibrancy of the surrounding quarter.

Elevated Dining and Premium Event Spaces

Frasers House is significantly upgrading its culinary offerings, introducing refreshed concepts for its existing dining venues. Among these is the popular Italian trattoria, Luce, and the refined Chinese restaurant, Man Fu Yuan. The overhaul focuses on delivering exceptional dining experiences through new menus that spotlight the essence and specialty of each cuisine.

Beyond accommodation and dining, the hotel maintains its reputation for premier event and meeting facilities. It offers approximately 1,000 square meters of upgraded flexible event venues, including the grand ballroom and the intimate Library space. These areas are designed to host major functions, from corporate gatherings and business meetings to lavish weddings.

For guests seeking respite from the city’s energy, the hotel provides a suite of wellness amenities. These include a revitalized outdoor pool, a fully equipped fitness center, and dedicated wellness facilities, offering a tranquil sanctuary amidst the lively Bugis streetscape.

Seamless Transition and Future Reservations

The transition to Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is part of a phased transformation that will gradually roll out refreshed interiors, revamped public spaces, and new dining concepts. While the extensive redesign is ongoing, the hotel is currently accepting reservations for guests. This endeavor signifies a renewed commitment to luxury, culture, and design, solidifying the hotel’s standing as a distinguished destination within one of Singapore’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

Resources:

• For further information and bookings, visit the hotel’s official Marriott website.

Fans of South Korean barbecue are celebrating the arrival of Song Gye Ok, the widely acclaimed grilled chicken specialist, which has officially launched its second location in Singapore at The Centrepoint. Following its successful debut in Telok Ayer last year, the eatery—known for attracting K-drama celebrities and boasting the provocative tagline, “Waiting in Hell, Tasting in Heaven”—is expanding its signature theatrical dining experience, centered on premium specialty chicken cuts grilled over charcoal.

Elevating Chicken Beyond the Ordinary Grill

Song Gye Ok has carved out a distinct niche by treating chicken with the precision typically reserved for the finest cuts of beef or pork. The restaurant focuses on delivering an immersive charcoal grilling performance, often led by an expert chef who meticulously cooks each piece individually. This tailored approach ensures maximum preservation of flavor, texture, and natural juiciness.

Diners are encouraged to explore the menu’s array of six specialized chicken cuts, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to nose-to-tail consumption. These unique offerings include less common parts, such as delicate neck fillets, softbone breast, and even chicken heart, all expertly prepared over hot charcoal coals.

For those craving something comforting, the menu extends beyond the grill. A standout is the Dakgomtang, a rich, collagen-infused chicken soup simmered for 12 hours. This deeply savory broth is served alongside tender roasted chicken and fresh vegetables, offering a traditional yet nourishing alternative.

Signature Soups and Expert Collaborations

Adding to the culinary variety is a notable collaboration featuring an all-day Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) menu developed with MODU. This partnership introduces four distinct, signature bowls to satisfy varied palates:

• Truffle Samgyetang: A luxurious take on the classic, infused with aromatic truffle oil.
• Perilla Seed Samgyetang: A deeply comforting bowl characterized by nutty, earthy flavors.
• Hangover Samgyetang: Spiced with a proprietary secret sauce designed for revitalization.
• Hanbang Samgyetang: Crafted using a traditional Korean herbal medicinal recipe.

Beyond the soups and grilled meats, guests should not overlook Song Gye Ok’s other signature dishes. Must-try selections include the Assorted Grilled Chicken Platter, savory hand-cut Kalguksu (noodle soup), and the robust SGO Cheongguk Doenjang Stew. The beverage menu complements the authentic Korean fare with handcrafted refreshments like the sophisticated Earl Grey Highball and sweet, rice-based Nurungji Sikhye.

Dining Ambience Recalls Old Seoul Charm

The Centrepoint outlet’s interior design is integral to the complete dining experience. Emulating the traditional hanok architecture—historic Korean homes—the space is designed to transport diners to the charm of old Seoul. Warm wood textures, detailed latticework, and subtle, contemporary lighting contribute to a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.

A key feature of the design is the open kitchen and interactive charcoal grilling area, allowing patrons to watch the chefs execute the specialty barbecue service firsthand. This integration of food preparation and dining space enhances the authenticity and engaging nature of the meal. Song Gye Ok continues to cement its reputation not just as a restaurant, but as a destination offering a meticulously curated taste of elevated Korean culinary tradition.

A significant transformation has arrived in Singapore’s dynamic Bugis district with the relaunch of the former InterContinental Singapore as Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Opening its doors on January 7, 2026, the hotel signifies a major partnership between Frasers Hospitality and Marriott International, promising a curated luxury experience deeply rooted in local culture. Strategically situated amid Bugis’ blend of traditional shophouses, modern retail, and burgeoning arts scene, this five-star property aims to become the definitive base for travelers seeking to explore one of the city-state’s most culturally rich enclaves.

A Cultural Hub at the Heart of Bugis

The hotel’s location is arguably its greatest asset. Positioned steps from the vibrant atmosphere of Kampong Glam and Arab Street, and within the nucleus of the Bras Basah Bugis arts district, guests have immediate access to independent boutiques, renowned street art, and both historic kopitiams (traditional coffee shops) and contemporary cafes. Direct connectivity to Bugis MRT further solidifies its status as a convenient gateway to the entire city.

The rebirth of the property under the Luxury Collection banner reflects a shift toward bespoke, design-conscious hospitality. The architectural and interior revamp meticulously draws upon the building’s existing Peranakan-inspired heritage while introducing refined, contemporary aesthetics. This blend is characterized by clean lines, artisanal details, and subtle visual tributes to Bugis’ layered history.

Interiors, Amenities, and Culinary Refresh

The extensive transformation is being implemented in phases to ensure minimal disruption. Once finalized, Frasers House will boast over 400 meticulously designed rooms and suites. Each accommodation intends to encapsulate the district’s distinct spirit, offering a luxurious, localized retreat.

The commitment to modernization extends to the hotel’s culinary offerings. Existing venues are being reimagined with renewed concepts and focused menus:

• Luce, the beloved trattoria, and the esteemed Chinese restaurant Man Fu Yuan are undergoing concept refreshes, emphasizing authentic flavors and premium ingredients.
• The Lobby Lounge and other public spaces are also receiving design updates to enhance the guest experience.

Beyond dining, Frasers House maintains its reputation as a leading venue for business and social events. The hotel preserves its impressive 1,000 square meters of flexible event facilities, including the grand ballroom and the intimate venue known as the Library, catering to weddings, corporate meetings, and private functions. Guests also benefit from world-class wellness amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a fully equipped fitness center, and dedicated spa facilities, offering a serene contrast to the neighborhood’s dynamic pulse.

Phased Transformation and Reservations

The comprehensive overhaul, involving the entire refresh of interiors, dining concepts, and public areas, is being executed progressively. Importantly, Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore, remains fully operational throughout this process and is currently welcoming guests.

The collaboration between Frasers Hospitality and Marriott’s Luxury Collection signals confidence in Singapore’s high-end tourism market. By blending architectural heritage with modern luxury, the hotel is poised to redefine the standard for culturally immersive stays in the increasingly popular Bugis area, inviting visitors to experience the district’s history and dynamism from its doorstep. Reservations and further details are available on the hotel’s dedicated Marriott International website.