Now that the Lunar New Year festivities have concluded, Singapore’s culinary circuit is shifting its focus toward a fresh wave of international flavors. From the rugged aesthetic of Korean barbecue “caves” to the refined elegance of Wenzhou fine dining, the city’s newest openings offer a global tour for the palate. This month, the spotlight shines on rare Laotian specialties, budget-friendly French bistros, and a Japanese-inflected pasta house in the heart of the suburbs.
1. Drim Gold: A High-End Sanctuary for Korean Meats
Located within the Weave at Resorts World Sentosa, Drim Gold is the sophisticated sibling to the acclaimed Drim Korean Steakhouse. The interior design is a conversation starter, blending dramatic, cave-like sculpted ceilings with the clean lines of traditional Hanok architecture.
The menu elevates the standard barbecue experience by focusing on premium imports. Diners can expect tableside service for Hanwoo beef, Jeju black pork, and Korean eel. For those seeking rarity, the “cut of the month” offers limited-quantity Hanwoo selections curated by the chefs.
- Best for: Special occasions and aficionados of premium Wagyu-style beef.
2. Nolita: The North’s New Spaghetti Destination
The team behind Omoté has expanded into the North with Nolita, a dedicated Japanese spaghetti bar in Lentor. Eschewing traditional Italian shapes, this casual eatery focuses exclusively on 10 curated spaghetti dishes.
Nolita distinguishes itself with accessibility; many of its signature plates, such as the #1 A.O.P with smoked bacon and the Tokyo Carbonara, are priced under $20. For a more indulgent meal, the Uni Tartufo ($32) pairs sea urchin with poached lobster in a rich truffle cream.
- Best for: Quick, high-quality weeknight dinners without the central business district price tag.
3. Ma Der Kin Khao: Authentic Lao-Thai Flavors
Tucked away in City Gate mall, Ma Der Kin Khao introduces the often-overlooked flavors of Laos to Beach Road. The kitchen specializes in Soop Pak Lao, a vibrant Laotian salad made with blanched greens, fermented fish sauce, and toasted sesame.
The menu also features charcoal-grilled pork cheek and bamboo soup, providing a rustic contrast to the city’s more commercial Thai offerings. Groups can take advantage of a $60 set menu, which includes five sharing plates and a whole steamed seabass.
- Best for: Adventurous eaters looking for traditional, regional soul food.
4. Les Canons: Approachable French Elegance
The ilLido Group’s latest venture, Les Canons, strips away the pretension of French fine dining in favor of a warm, neighborhood bistro vibe at IOI Central Boulevard Towers. Remarkably, all main courses—including steak au poivre and duck confit—are priced below $25.
The affordability extends to the wine cellar, where over 50 French labels are available. With glasses starting at $8 and an all-day happy hour beginning at $6, it is positioned as one of the most cost-effective spots for French cuisine in the city.
- Best for: A relaxed business lunch or a post-work glass of Bordeaux.
5. Wenzhou Mansion: A First for Jiangsu-Zhejiang Cuisine
For a truly unique experience, Wenzhou Mansion in Tanjong Pagar debuts as Singapore’s first fine-dining establishment dedicated to Wenzhou’s coastal heritage. Set within a striking white-brick colonial building, the restaurant features 120 dishes that highlight seafood from the East China Sea.
Signature items include the East China Sea yellow croaker and raw marinated crabs, which are prized for their sweet roe. Both lunch and dinner sets are available, making it a premier destination for those looking to explore the sophisticated culinary diversity of Mainland China.
- Best for: Impressing corporate clients or hosting elegant family gatherings.
As Singapore continues to solidify its status as a premier global food destination, these new additions demonstrate that the city remains hungry for authenticity, variety, and value. Whether you are craving the comfort of a French bistro or the rare taste of Jeju black pork, March offers plenty of reasons to get back to the table.