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Beloved sandwich purveyor Park Bench Deli (PBD) has re-emerged on the culinary scene, launching a high-profile, three-month residency at The Pantry on Dempsey Hill. Following the closure of its Telok Ayer flagship, founder Andrei Soen has orchestrated this revival with a singular focus: bringing back the famously “messy, unapologetic” sandwiches that define the brand’s identity. The pop-up, which commenced on January 10, offers fans signature classics and introduces new concepts, establishing a fresh, family-friendly destination for comfort food enthusiasts.

A Casual, Communal Vibe in Dempsey

The new Dempsey setting transforms The Pantry into a breezy, communal space that channels a backyard barbecue aesthetic, designed to accommodate approximately 70 diners. The interior features a vibrant display of PBD’s cultural footprint, including collaborations with iconic brands like Vans and photography provided by friends of the brand, reinforcing its enduring “old school cool”.The Pantry offers both air-conditioned indoor seating (for about 40 guests) and outdoor options.

In a move catering to the growing weekend crowd at Dempsey, PBD has introduced a dedicated Kids Menu for the first time. The dining experience remains casual, requiring walk-up counter orders, though reservations are highly encouraged due to anticipated demand.

Signature Sandwiches and Elevated Flavors

PBD’s residency is not about reinventing the menu, but refining it. The pop-up retains the core classics that built its reputation, now reportedly improved through better sourcing and preparation methods. A significant upgrade is a new, massive outdoor smoker, allowing the team to deliver more authentically smoked meats compared to their previous standard kitchen oven setup. Cirius Bakery supplies the high-quality breads and buns.

The menu is structured into two main periods: a Breakfast selection runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., while the comprehensive Sandwich lineup is available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., complemented by salads and sides.

Must-try items solidifying PBD’s return include:

• Pastrami Reuben Sandwich ($34): A lighter take on the classic, featuring delicately smoked beef pastrami layered with coleslaw and Swiss cheese on airy rye sourdough.
• Breakfast Banh Mi ($24): PBD’s rich fusion, combining savory spam with sweet chicken liver pâté, balanced by pickled vegetables.
• Hot Fried Chicken ($26): A thick slab of fried chicken served on potato buns, enhanced with a potent garlic chili crunch.

A lighter, notable addition is the Chinese Chicken Salad ($24). Designed as a refreshing palate cleanser, this salad features shredded chicken, sweet navel oranges, pickled ginger, and crispy wanton skin tossed in a sweet sesame dressing.

Introducing Rosita’s Deluxe: Evening Smash Burgers

For the first time, PBD expands its offerings to include a specialized evening concept, Rosita’s Deluxe. Operating as a satellite smash burger joint, Rosita’s is available exclusively from Friday to Sunday, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The menu focuses on double-patty smashed cheeseburgers, available in no-frills original varieties or iterations like the Rosita’s Teriyaki Burger, all priced at $26.

The establishment also offers an impressive array of beverages, suitable for both day and evening visitors. Options range from standard coffees and teas to healthy juices (like the turmeric-laced Sunrise Carrot, $13) and decadent smoothies (PB Banana Oat, $15). The alcoholic offerings include cocktails (from $20), highballs (from $18), beer (from $13), and a selection of wine and sparkling options.

Planning Your Visit

The Park Bench Deli residency at The Pantry, 16A Dempsey Road, is scheduled to run for three months from January 10. Operation hours for the Deli are Thursday through Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rosita’s Deluxe is open Friday to Sunday, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Due to the limited engagement, reservations are essential and can be made online. This highly anticipated revival offers a crucial piece of Singapore’s culinary identity a temporary home, promising both nostalgia and refined flavor for discerning diners.

Singapore’s dynamic Bugis neighborhood, celebrated for its blend of traditional kopitiams, modern cafes, and vibrant street art, has gained a new landmark with the official rebranding and rejuvenation of a prominent five-star hotel. Formerly the InterContinental Singapore, the newly minted Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Singapore officially opened its doors on January 7, 2026, marking a significant partnership between Frasers Hospitality and Marriott International. This transformation positions the hotel as a cultural nexus, deeply connecting guests to the rich heritage and contemporary pulse of the Bras Basah Bugis arts district.

A Cultural Base for Urban Explorers

The hotel’s location is paramount, offering enviable proximity to cultural hotspots like Kampong Glam and Arab Street, alongside direct access to the Bugis MRT station. This accessibility makes Frasers House an ideal launchpad for exploring the area, which is rapidly evolving into one of Singapore’s most compelling urban centers. The strategic reboot under the Luxury Collection banner signals a shift toward a more design-conscious and culturally attuned hospitality experience, integrating the site’s history with modern aesthetic sensibilities.

The expansive renovation project preserves the building’s distinct Peranakan-inspired heritage while introducing contemporary refinements. This synthesis of old and new is achieved through clean lines, artisanal detailing, and subtle design cues that reflect Bugis’ colorful past. Upon the completion of the phased renovation, the hotel will boast over 400 rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to echo the unique spirit of the district.

Enhanced Dining and Event Experiences

The hotel’s culinary and event spaces are undergoing similar large-scale transformations, promising elevated experiences for both guests and local patrons. Signature dining venues are being refreshed into renewed concepts that prioritize authenticity and flavor. Noteworthy establishments include the popular trattoria Luce and the sophisticated Chinese restaurant Man Fu Yuan, focusing their rejuvenated menus on what truly makes each cuisine exceptional.

Beyond dining, Frasers House remains a premier destination for large-scale events. The hotel features 1,000 square meters of upgraded, flexible meeting and event venues, including a grand ballroom and the intimate Library space. These areas are poised to host everything from elegant weddings and significant business meetings to private social gatherings. Guests seeking respite from the city’s bustle can also utilize the state-of-the-art wellness facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool and modern fitness center.

Ongoing Evolution in Singapore’s Arts Hub

While the hotel is already accepting reservations and operational, the complete evolution of Frasers House is being executed in phases. This gradual introduction of refreshed interiors, new dining concepts, and public spaces ensures that the guest experience remains seamless while maintaining the highest standard of service.

The shift represents more than just a name change; it signifies a deeper commitment to fostering a luxury experience rooted in local context. As Bugis continues its ascent as Singapore’s epicenter for street art, indie business, and food innovation, Frasers House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, stands ready to serve as a pivotal architectural and cultural anchor for this dynamic location.

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Planning Your Stay in Bugis? Consider These Nearby Attractions:

• Explore the independent boutiques and textile shops along Arab Street.
• Discover local history and architecture within the Kampong Glam heritage quarter.
• Visit art galleries and performance venues within the greater Bras Basah Bugis arts district.

Park Bench Deli (PBD), the acclaimed purveyor of hearty sandwiches, has returned to Singapore’s dining scene after relocating from its Telok Ayer flagship. Founder Andrei Soen launched a highly anticipated three-month residency at The Pantry on Dempsey Hill, starting January 10. The pop-up aims to satisfy the city’s appetite for large, flavor-packed sandwiches, fulfilling Soen’s mission to revive the “messy, unapologetic” style of deli fare often missing in the local café landscape. Diners can expect beloved classics, an expanded menu, and a newly introduced evening concept, all set within a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

The Pop-Up Experience: Casual Vibe Meets Culinary Craft

The temporary Dempsey location embraces a breezy, communal setting, accommodating up to 70 guests, with 40 seats indoors offering air conditioning. The ambiance channels an “old-school cool” aesthetic, reflected in wall art featuring photography by brand allies and a large-scale collaboration exhibit with Vans.

PBD has transitioned to a casual, counter-service model for ordering, though advance reservations are strongly advised due to high demand. Signaling a commitment to accessibility, the new outpost is introducing a dedicated Kids Menu, positioning The Pantry as a viable weekend destination for families navigating the Dempsey area.

Owner Andrei Soen emphasized that this return is less about nostalgia and more about refinement. A significant upgrade is the introduction of a massive outdoor smoker, allowing the culinary team to deliver authentically smoked meats—a key enhancement over the standard kitchen oven used previously. High-quality breads and buns, sourced from local artisan Cirius Bakery, further elevate the core product.

Menu Highlights: Stacked Sandwiches and Supper Burgers

The menu is structured into dedicated dining periods: a breakfast section served from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the main sandwich offerings available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., supplemented by sides and salads.

The residency features several standout sandwiches that have garnered a dedicated following:

• Pastrami Reuben ($34): This refined classic layers delicately smoked beef pastrami, coleslaw, and Swiss cheese on airy rye sourdough. Despite its substantial size, the choice of bread offers surprising lightness.
• Breakfast Banh Mi ($24): PBD’s interpretation of the Vietnamese classic combines savory spam with sweet chicken liver pâté, balanced by mayonnaise and pickled vegetables.
• Hot Fried Chicken ($26): A thick slab of crispy fried chicken is served between potato buns, distinguished by the intense heat provided by a distinct garlic chili crunch.

A lighter yet equally compelling option is the Chinese Chicken Salad ($24). Positioned as a refreshing palate cleanser, the salad features shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, sweet navel oranges, pickled ginger, and crispy wanton skin, all tossed in a sweet sesame dressing. Its components evoke the celebratory spirit of yusheng, offering a textural contrast to the heartier sandwiches.

Rosita’s Deluxe: The Evening Concept

From Friday through Sunday, as the sun sets, PBD introduces Rosita’s Deluxe, a dedicated evening concept operating from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. This menu focuses exclusively on double-patty smashed cheeseburgers ($26 each), offering variations such as the classic Original, Rosita’s Teriyaki Burger, and the Hot Fried Chicken burger.

Beverage Program and Operations

PBD’s new location hosts an expansive beverage menu catering to daytime drinkers and non-alcoholic preferences alike. The list includes chilled cocktails (starting at $20), highballs (from $18), beer (from $13), and a selection of wine, including reds, whites, and sparkling options.

For non-alcoholic choices, the menu features specialty coffees, teas, and non-coffee lattes like matcha. Health-focused options include juices like the Turmeric-laced Sunrise Carrot ($13) and decadent blends such as the PB Banana Oat smoothie ($15).

Important Visitor Information

The Park Bench Deli residency at The Pantry, located at 16A Dempsey Road, is scheduled to run for three months starting January 10.

Operating Hours:

• Park Bench Deli (Daytime Menu): Thursday to Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Rosita’s Deluxe (Evening Burgers): Friday to Sunday, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Reservations are mandatory for securing a table and can be made online. This highly anticipated return offers a limited-time opportunity for diners to experience elevated, yet unpretentious, deli dining in a fresh new setting.

For international travelers focused on cultural immersion, the pursuit of unique, world-class art exhibitions often shapes itineraries as much as culinary exploration and iconic landmarks. A significant nod to a burgeoning cultural hub has been recently announced, featuring a debut Singapore attraction among the planet’s most compelling exhibitions scheduled for 2026 travel. This recognition places Singapore’s newest art venue alongside established cultural titans like The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Tate Britain in London.

The new institution gaining global attention is IMBA Theatre, situated within the world-renowned Gardens by the Bay. Set to officially open in the first quarter of the year, IMBA Theatre is poised to become Singapore’s foremost destination specializing in ambitious, large-scale multi-sensory and immersive cultural events.

Botero Exhibition Earns Prestigious Global Spotlight

The exhibition specifically cited as worthy of international travel is IMBA Theatre’s inaugural showcase: Botero: Heart of Volume. This limited-run show centers on the distinctive works of celebrated Colombian artist Fernando Botero.

The exhibition promises an expansive look into Botero’s artistic universe, featuring his recognizable paintings and sculptures, along with innovative elements like large-scale animations. Botero is perhaps best known for his signature style of volumetric exaggeration, transforming figures and objects into robust, rounded forms, a style frequently referred to as “Boterismo.”

While the IMBA Theatre site itself may be a lesser-known name presently, Botero’s work is already familiar to residents and visitors of Singapore. His iconic, bronze Bird sculpture, residing prominently at Boat Quay, embodies the artist’s charmingly disproportionate aesthetic that has captivated audiences worldwide.

Singapore Solidifies Position in Global Art Circuit

The inclusion of Botero: Heart of Volume on a highly selective list of global exhibitions underscores Singapore’s growing reputation as a dynamic destination for arts and culture. Unlike static collections, these limited-time, major exhibitions drive significant cultural tourism and provide compelling reasons for travelers to cross continents.

The exhibition’s placement alongside heritage institutions like the Petit Palais in Paris signals a successful integration of contemporary global talent within Singapore’s visionary architectural and cultural landscape at Gardens by the Bay.

Key Exhibition Details

• Venue: IMBA Theatre, Gardens by the Bay
• Exhibition Title: Botero: Heart of Volume
• Artist Focus: Fernando Botero (Paintings, Sculptures, Animations)
• Status: Debut, limited-time exhibition

While the specific exhibition dates and ticket pricing for Botero: Heart of Volume are still pending official release, prospective travelers and art enthusiasts are advised to monitor the IMBA Global website for immediate updates. This debut promises to be a pivotal cultural moment, offering a profound appreciation for a modern master within an innovative new Southeast Asian landmark.

Preparing for Your Art-Focused Travel

For those planning to incorporate this exhibition into their 2026 travel itinerary, the emergence of new transport links further facilitates access. Recently launched direct flights connecting Singapore to destinations like Newcastle and the Sunshine Coast in Australia enhance regional connectivity, simplifying travel logistics for art seekers in Oceania and beyond. As Singapore continues to invest heavily in downtown public spaces, including new parks and retail developments, the surrounding urban environment further enriches the cultural visitor experience.

Singapore’s latest transit-oriented development, Lentor Modern, is redefining the city-state’s ubiquitous station-to-mall connection, offering a curated selection of new-to-market dining and retail experiences directly integrated with the recently opened Lentor MRT station on the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL). Located in the northern region, this sleek mixed-use complex provides suburban residents with immediate amenity access while featuring several unique food and beverage (F&B) concepts designed to attract visitors from across the island, continuing Singapore’s trend of placing essential services and retail at the heart of its transport network.

The appeal of Lentor Modern extends beyond convenience, drawing attention with several buzzed-about, first-in-Singapore eateries. Leading the social media conversation is Bunny’s, a compact yet visually striking Harajuku-inspired burger boutique. This concept captures contemporary dining aesthetics with its vibrant pink accents, playful retro wall art, and whimsical decor elements, including novelty heart-shaped sauce containers. Bunny’s menu centers on premium Wagyu patties, notably showcasing the indulgent “Boyfriend Burger,” complemented by handcrafted beverages like strawberry lemonade, successfully merging high-quality comfort food with an acute sense of style and spectacle.

Unique F&B Concepts Drive Destination Dining

A key differentiator for Lentor Modern is its commitment to novel and specialized dining experiences. The development houses Nolita Kitchen, a purveyor of modern Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine. This restaurant focuses on refined pasta dishes alongside flatbread pizzas characterized by perfectly executed charring, illustrating a sophisticated blend of two distinct culinary traditions.

Pet-Friendly Dining and Fusion Cuisine

Addressing a growing demand for inclusive spaces, Merle & Co stands out as a dedicated meat-free café. Crucially, Merle & Co offers what many pet-friendly F&B outlets in Singapore lack: indoor, air-conditioned seating for patrons dining with their pets. This allows canine companions and their owners a comfortable respite from Singapore’s tropical heat, moving beyond the standard restriction to outdoor alfresco areas.

The culinary diversity is further enhanced by several upcoming and established brands. Daily, a forthcoming establishment, promises an inventive take on fusion, featuring Asian-style pasta and grilled meats.

Visitors can also anticipate new outlets from popular regional chains, emphasizing variety and accessibility. These include the specialized tea brand Chagee, the popular mala eatery A Hot Hideout, First Bowl Rice Kitchen (a halal Chinese concept), Shiok Burger, the Japanese fusion spot Omoté Special Edition, and the Korean gimbap specialist Ssada Gimbab. Global brands are also represented, with new locations for Tim Hortons and the innovative concept Toast & Roll by Swee Heng.

Implications for Urban Planning

Lentor Modern exemplifies the evolution of urban integration in Singapore, where essential residential areas are seamlessly linked with commercial vitality. By anchoring distinct, high-quality F&B options—especially those with novel features like comprehensive indoor pet dining and unique culinary fusions—the development acts as a significant local hub and a destination worth traveling to, reinforcing the efficacy of transit-oriented development (TOD) models in maintaining Singapore’s status as a highly convenient and amenity-rich city.

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Suggested Further Reading:

• The expansion of major international coffee and brunch chains into Singapore.
• Trends in Asian-Western culinary fusion.
• The rise of pet-inclusive dining standards in Southeast Asia.

For international travelers planning their 2026 itineraries, the pursuit of unique cultural experiences often rivals the quest for gourmet food and iconic landmarks. This year, one highly anticipated Singapore exhibition has secured its spot on a globe-spanning list of the world’s most essential arts destinations, standing alongside showcases at revered institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Tate Britain in London.

The exhibition generating this buzz is Botero: Heart of Volume, the inaugural centerpiece at the IMBA Theatre, a brand-new, purpose-built venue set to revolutionize Singapore’s immersive arts landscape at Gardens by the Bay. This highly curated selection emphasizes exhibitions that offer singular, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities unavailable elsewhere, justifying the trek for dedicated culture seekers.

Gardens by the Bay Welcomes New Multi-Sensory Hub

The IMBA Theatre is poised to be Singapore’s first dedicated space for large-scale multi-sensory and immersive spectaculars. Poised for its grand opening in the first quarter of 2026, the venue represents a significant expansion of the city-state’s commitment to cutting-edge cultural programming. Its commitment to hosting monumental shows is immediately evident with its debut feature, focusing on a global art titan.

The selected exhibition, Botero: Heart of Volume, shines a spotlight on the beloved Colombian master, Fernando Botero (1932–2023). Known globally for his signature exaggerated, voluminous forms—a style consistently featured in his paintings and monumental sculptures—Botero’s work is instantly recognizable. In fact, many Singapore residents will already be familiar with his public art, particularly the iconic bronze Bird sculpture situated at Boat Quay.

Delving into Botero’s World

This limited-time showcase promises a comprehensive exploration of Botero’s legacy, extending beyond his celebrated sculptures. Visitors can expect to view a wide array of his paintings, drawings, and mixed media works. Crucially, the exhibition will incorporate larger-than-life animated elements, utilizing the IMBA Theatre’s multi-sensory capabilities to offer a deeper, more dynamic look into the world that shaped Botero’s unique perspective.

The inclusion of Botero: Heart of Volume on a curated list of world-class exhibitions underscores Singapore’s growing reputation as a hub for major international art events. Institutions globally, like the Petit Palais in Paris, also feature prominently on this distinguished roster, reinforcing the high cultural standing of the IMBA Theatre’s premier offering.

Planning Your 2026 Art Pilgrimage

While the announcement has generated significant international interest, specific details regarding ticket sales and the official opening and closing dates for Botero: Heart of Volume have yet to be finalized. Interested fans and travelers are advised to monitor the IMBA Global website for concrete scheduling and ticketing information as the venue prepares for its anticipated launch.

This high-profile debut reflects a broader trend among major global cities to invest in immersive and large-scale cultural events that drive arts tourism. As Singapore continues to redefine its cultural landscape, the IMBA Theatre and the Botero exhibition offer a powerful reason for travelers to make Southeast Asia a priority destination in 2026.

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Related Cultural Explorations:

• Explore new direct flight options easing transit to Australia’s east coast.
• Discover Trip.com’s top suggested foodie destinations for Singaporean travelers this year.
• Stay updated on the evolving landscape of Singapore’s urban developments, including new parks and community facilities downtown.

Singapore’s ubiquitous integration of public transport and retail reaches a new milestone with the opening of Lentor Modern, a mixed-use development connected directly to the Lentor MRT station on the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL). Positioned to serve as a vital community hub for residents in the northern region, this new destination is quickly becoming a magnet for food enthusiasts across the island, thanks to a curated selection of unique, market-fresh dining concepts and established favorites.

The Rise of the MRT-Connected Mall

The concept of a vertically integrated train station and shopping center is foundational to Singapore’s urban planning, transforming transit points into lifestyle destinations. Lentor Modern exemplifies this synergy, offering a convenient, air-conditioned reprieve and a diverse array of services immediately accessible upon exiting the train. While a boon for nearby residents, the development is proving its appeal extends far beyond the immediate neighborhood, drawing visitors keen to explore its compact yet sophisticated culinary lineup.

Several new-to-market eateries are generating significant buzz, setting Lentor Modern apart from typical neighborhood malls.

Trending New Concepts to Explore

One establishment currently dominating social media feeds is Bunny’s, a vibrant, Harajuku-inspired burger joint specializing in premium wagyu beef patties. The aesthetic is as much a draw as the food, featuring a playful pink interior, retro artwork, and novelty elements like heart-shaped sauce containers. Must-try items include the indulgent ‘Boyfriend Burger,’ priced at S$32, and their refreshing strawberry lemonade.

For those seeking a more globally fusion approach, Nolita Kitchen offers a compelling blend of Japanese and Italian culinary traditions. The menu features inventive pasta dishes alongside flatbread pizzas celebrated for their perfect charring—a testament to quality preparation.

Moreover, Lentor Modern addresses a growing consumer demand for inclusive dining experiences with Merle & Co. This meat-free café stands out in Singapore’s pet-friendly scene by allowing ‘furkids’ to dine with their owners indoors, offering comfort and air conditioning on hot days, contrasting with many venues that restrict pets to outdoor seating.

Rounding out the initial wave of new offerings is Daily, an upcoming fusion restaurant specializing in Asian-style pasta and grilled meats, promising further variety for diners.

Familiar Favourites and Global Brands

Beyond the fresh concepts, the development strengthens its retail appeal by hosting new branches of popular food and beverage brands, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. These include:

• Tim Hortons: Bringing Canadian coffee culture to the north.
• Chagee: A recognized destination for modern tea beverages.
• Ssada Gimbab: Offering Korean-style rice rolls.
• Omoté Special Edition: Expanding its footprint with Japanese fusion cuisine.
• A Hot Hideout: Providing fiery mala dishes.
• First Bowl Rice Kitchen & Shiok Burger: Adding local variety and halal options.
• Toast & Roll by Swee Heng: A popular local bakery concept.

Thisstrategic mix of novel, aspirational eateries and reliable, well-known chains ensures that Lentor Modern serves a broad demographic, confirming its role as a significant new lifestyle hub in North Singapore. As the area continues to develop, this culinary cluster is set to drive foot traffic and enhance the vitality of the entire Lentor precinct.

Hong Kong’s renowned lifestyle staple, Elephant Grounds, is expanding its regional footprint, debuting its first Singapore outlet on January 10, 2026, within Guoco Midtown II. Known for its sophisticated craft coffee, freshly baked goods, and substantial brunch offerings since its founding in 2013, the café brand aims to establish a welcoming “third space” for the city-state’s discerning social scene, contributing to the island’s vibrant dining landscape.

A Global Cafe Heritage Arrives in the Lion City

What began as a modest kiosk has grown into a significant regional player, with multiple successful locations across Hong Kong, Manila, and Jakarta. Elephant Grounds has cultivated a reputation for high-quality, comforting fare, moving beyond simple coffee service to embrace a full-service culinary experience.

The debut Singapore location, situated at 124 Beach Road, #01-04 Guoco Midtown II, features a thoughtfully designed space that merges indoor sanctuary with nature-inspired, airy aesthetics. Notably, the establishment welcomes pets in its outdoor seating area, aligning with the increasingly popular pet-friendly movement in the city. The café will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Culinary Highlights: From Artisan Pastries to Comfort Classics

While the complete menu details are anticipated, early previews indicate a robust selection designed to cater from early risers to all-day diners.

Breakfast and Brunch Staples:

• A selection of freshly baked breads and pastries made from scratch.
• The decadent Florentine Benedict.
• Nutritious options such as mango coconut overnight oats.

All-Day and Weekend Specialties:
The menu ensures ample options for substantial meals, including wholesome, plant-forward choices and hearty weekend fare. Key items expected include:

• Wholesome Buddha bowls for a balanced meal.
• A fusion favorite: truffle baked pork chop rice.
• Weekend indulgence with corned beef hash with eggs.

For everyday enjoyment, the menu also features satisfying comfort mains such as creamy carbonara and the signature wagyu burgers, ensuring broad appeal across various tastes.

The brand’s commitment to quality ingredients and diverse offerings positions it as a strong contender in Singapore’s competitive café market. Its extensive menu, ranging from morning handcrafted coffees to savory mains, ensures that it can serve as a dependable spot for casual meetings, solo work sessions, and family gatherings.

Addressing Singapore’s Growing Demand for Lifestyle Concepts

Elephant Grounds’ expansion into Singapore underscores a regional trend where diners prioritize venues offering high-quality food and beverage alongside an elevated social atmosphere. The “third space” concept—a relaxed environment outside of home and work—is increasingly valuable to urban professionals. By offering a stylish, pet-friendly, and culinary rich setting, Elephant Grounds is poised to capture a significant share of this lifestyle segment.

For ongoing updates and menu previews, enthusiasts are encouraged to monitor the café’s official Instagram channel: @elephantgroundssg. The January 2026 opening solidifies Guoco Midtown II as an emerging hub for international and acclaimed dining concepts.

Seeking fresh Australian adventures in the new year just became easier, as Jetstar Airways expands its network connecting Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN) to two compelling destinations Down Under. The airline has recently debuted services to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland and Newcastle in New South Wales, offering Singaporean travelers enhanced options for accessing Australia’s diverse coastal regions and vibrant cityscapes.

Exploring Australia’s Newest Global Gateways

Despite the closure of its regional arm, Jetstar Asia, the parent company, Jetstar Airways, is doubling down on key international routes. While previous direct service between Singapore and Broome was discontinued, these new routes open access to less-traveled, but equally desirable, holiday spots.

The Sunshine Coast: Queensland’s Coastal Paradise

The Sunshine Coast, situated north of Brisbane, is a natural wonderland living up to its name. Known for extensive sandy beaches and clear waters, the region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond traditional swimming, typical activities range from guided canoeing expeditions and scenic horseback riding along coastal trails to the extraordinary experience of swimming alongside migrating humpback whales during season.

Newcastle: NSW’s Urban Beach Hub

Further south in New South Wales, Newcastle presents a dynamic mix of history, culture, and surf culture. This former industrial powerhouse has transformed into a thriving metropolitan area, popular among surfers for its consistent waves and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore a rich collection of street art adorning central neighborhoods and enjoy a burgeoning bar and dining landscape that buzzes after sundown.

Understanding the Flight Logistics

Travelers booking these new routes should note an important distinction in the flight structure. While categorized as a direct flight—meaning passengers remain on the same aircraft—the journey includes a brief stopover for refueling, making it technically not non-stop.

For both the Sunshine Coast and Newcastle routes, the midpoint stop occurs in Bali, lasting approximately 90 minutes. Crucially, passengers do not need to disembark and pass through additional security screenings or baggage claims at this transit point.

Total journey times are competitive for trans-equatorial flights:

• Singapore to Sunshine Coast (via Bali): Slightly less than 11 hours.
• Singapore to Newcastle (via Bali): Slightly less than 10 hours.

A preliminary review of introductory fares indicates that two-way travel costs can remain remarkably low, often keeping the base price below S$500. Even with optional add-ons, such as checked baggage, in-flight meals, and preferred seating, the total cost remains highly competitive, making these destinations attractive for budget-conscious travelers seeking extensive international experiences.

These expanded offerings cater to a growing segment of travelers eager to explore regional Australian destinations beyond the major hubs like Sydney and Melbourne. By providing cost-effective and relatively swift access to Queensland’s natural beauty and New South Wales’ urban coastal vitality, Jetstar is helping more adventurers venture off the beaten path while maintaining a keen eye on their travel budget. Flights and detailed schedules are available for booking directly through the Jetstar website.

Singaporean globetrotters are increasingly prioritizing the plate over the postcard, according to recent travel analytics showing a substantial surge in food-motivated trips. As local diners, known for their discerning palates, cement their status as leading figures in global food tourism, an August 2025 Trip.com report revealed that interest in culinary voyages has spiked dramatically, with online searches for “food travel” and the Michelin guide rising by 18 percent and 22 percent, respectively, while food-related bookings on the platform soared by 43 percent. This trend underscores a pivotal shift where dining experiences are no longer holiday afterthoughts, but the primary reason for packing a suitcase.

The Rise of the Gastro-Traveler

For many Singaporeans, travel planning now revolves around where—and what—they will eat. Further insights shared by Trip.com in December 2025 confirmed this phenomenon, noting that a resounding 70 percent of Singaporean travelers list “Local Food & Dining Experiences” among their top three deciding factors when selecting a destination. This demand has illuminated several emerging foodie hotspots beyond traditional favorites like Tokyo or Bangkok.

The data suggests travelers are now actively seeking out authentic, high-quality, and often value-for-money gastronomic adventures. A YouGov study from late 2025 also highlighted China as an increasingly popular budget-friendly holiday choice, aligning with the observed growth in interest for specific Chinese cities.

Five Must-Visit Cities for Serious Foodies

Based on booking data and growth metrics, Trip.com has identified five Asia-Pacific cities that should be on every food-motivated traveler’s radar, offering diverse flavors and unique dining cultures:

1. Chengdu, China

As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Chengdu is currently undergoing a travel renaissance. The city, famous for its intense and fragrant Sichuan cuisine, experienced a massive 315 percent growth in Trip.com’s Trip.Best Global Rankings for activities and attractions. From fiery mapo tofu to delicate dan dan noodles, it offers a vibrant culinary education.

2. Jeju Island, South Korea

This volcanic island is a treasure trove for seafood lovers and meat enthusiasts alike. Visitors flock to Jeju for its exceptionally fresh catches and the specialty black pork barbecue, often prepared tableside in a traditional Korean setting.

3. Fukuoka, Japan

Known for its lively and atmospheric portable food stalls, or Yatai, Fukuoka provides a memorable dining experience. Travelers can enjoy local specialties like tonkotsu ramen and gyoza in intimate, hole-in-the-wall settings, capturing the authentic spirit of Japanese street food.

4. Da Nang, Vietnam

While Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain popular, Da Nang is rapidly gaining traction for its dynamic and diverse food scene. Located on Vietnam’s central coast, the city offers superb grilled seafood and a burgeoning collection of trendy, modern cafés, appealing to both traditionalists and those seeking contemporary Vietnamese cuisine.

5. Ipoh, Malaysia

Often overshadowed by its neighbor Penang, Ipoh stands out as a genuine culinary bargain. It is widely considered the ultimate destination for enjoying iconic Malaysian dishes such as hor fun (flat noodles) and beansprout chicken at exceptionally reasonable prices, offering a compelling alternative for budget-conscious foodies.

As culinary pursuits solidify their status as a main driver of travel decisions, Singaporean travelers are setting new trends, prioritizing destination authenticity and memorable local dining ventures over standard sightseeing itineraries. By moving beyond familiar established food hubs, these explorers are uncovering hidden culinary gems across Asia, signaling a permanent change in how modern holidays are planned and experienced.

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