Starting June 1, pet owners can dine alongside their four-legged friends at Raffles Courtyard, the alfresco restaurant within Raffles Hotel Singapore, which is rolling out a dedicated pet-friendly policy and a refreshed Southeast Asian menu.
For years, Singapore’s dining scene has slowly opened its doors to pets, but few venues have matched the prestige of this latest addition. Raffles Courtyard, the breezy garden oasis tucked inside the legendary Raffles Hotel Singapore, is now officially a pet-friendly dining destination—available not just for weekend brunches, but throughout the week. Starting June 1, owners can bring their furry companions to the hotel’s designated outdoor space, which features tropical greenery, shaded seating, and a relaxed, open-air atmosphere.
The move marks a significant shift for the historic property, which has long been synonymous with colonial elegance rather than canine visitors. Now, according to the hotel, the courtyard will serve as a permanent pet-friendly zone, allowing guests to swing by any day of the week with their dogs in tow. The setting is intentionally low-key: think breezy alfresco dining surrounded by lush foliage, offering a tucked-away garden vibe that feels a world away from the city’s bustle.
A Menu Refresh With Peranakan Roots
Alongside the pet-friendly upgrade, Raffles Courtyard has also unveiled a redesigned menu that leans into Southeast Asian comfort food with polished flair. The new dishes were created in collaboration with private dining chef Grace Kee of Good Graces, who brings her expertise in Peranakan cuisine to the table.
Standout offerings include a laksa risotto—a creamy twist on Singapore’s iconic spicy noodle soup, topped with charred octopus and trout roe for added texture. Another eye-catching dish is the butterfly blue pea nasi lemak, featuring electric-blue coconut rice paired with crispy soft-shell crab. The menu aims to blend familiarity with surprise, offering diners a sense of culinary adventure while staying grounded in regional flavors.
Weekly Events Keep Things Fresh
Beyond the menu, the courtyard is introducing a regular lineup of weekly happenings to draw in repeat visitors. Highlights include a $30 set lunch available daily from noon to 2 p.m., and an extended happy hour running from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., with drinks starting at $14. For those seeking themed nights, Grill Nights every Tuesday offer smoky Southeast Asian-inspired barbecue, while Wine Wednesdays feature selected glasses at $12 and a complimentary second bottle with certain wine orders.
These additions position Raffles Courtyard as more than just a tourist landmark—it’s becoming a neighborhood staple for both locals and visitors, especially those who refuse to leave their pets at home.
Broader Implications for Pet-Friendly Dining
Singapore’s pet-friendly dining scene has expanded rapidly in recent years, driven by a growing population of pet owners—often called “paw-rents”—who seek venues that accommodate their animals. According to a 2023 survey by Rakuten Insight, nearly 40% of Singapore households own a pet, with dogs being the most common. Yet many upscale restaurants remain hesitant to welcome animals due to hygiene concerns or brand image.
Raffles Hotel’s decision to embrace pets signals a shift in luxury hospitality, suggesting that elegance and canine companionship can coexist. For other high-end venues considering similar policies, this move may serve as a case study in balancing exclusivity with inclusivity.
For now, pet owners can book a table at Raffles Courtyard and enjoy the hotel’s storied ambiance—leash optional. The restaurant is open daily, with reservations recommended.
For more details, visit the official Raffles Hotel Singapore website.