Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Singapore’s Orchard Road is synonymous with shopping. But there is much more to it than just that. This is especially true now, when it is home to some freshly minted Michelin-starred restaurants, the Christmas lights are up and it is seeing a bit of a clubbing renaissance. To find out what is new on and around Orchard Road, read on.
Affordable Michelin Dining
The first-ever Michelin Guide for Singapore, which was published back in July, saw many excellent fine dining restaurants in Orchard get there long-deserved due— from French restaurant Les Amis to sushi temple Shinji by Kanesaka. But the latter part of the year has seen two Michelin- starred casual dining restaurants from Japan open outposts on Orchard Road. If you have no time for an eight-course degustation, try one of these.
This 18-seater restaurant in Singapore is their first outside of Japan, and offers the same critically-acclaimed flavors that founder and chef Yuki Onishi offers in its main outlet. The secret lies in its carefully selected ingredients, a mixture of sauces used for the base of the soy broth. #01-01 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Rd., 6734-4886
Right next door is the offshoot of iconic Kam’s Roast Goose from Hong Kong. Founded by the Yung Kee family, a household name in the restaurant scene in Hong Kong, the original branch earned a Michelin star in 2015. Issues with goose import regulations mean their showstopper dish is not on the menu in Singapore, but the roast duck sold here is equally delectable. #01-04/05/06/07 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Rd.
Cozy Clubs
The eponymous music festival’s chain of jazz cafes now has a sophisticated lounge in Singapore. Live shows cover a local and regional line-up, but it’s not all retro soul—rock, pop, hip-hop and world music are also represented. The menu features items named after jazz legends such as the B.B. Burger ($16) and Quincy Jones Roast Chicken ($32), as well as cocktails like the Sinnerman ($18), paying tribute to the Nina Simone song. 10 Claymore Rd., Pan Pacific Orchard, 6733-0091
This intimate club on the fringes of Orchard Road, underneath York Hotel, plays quality hip hop music for a discerning crowd. The founders have taken visual cues from the space itself, which takes after typical architectural designs of the 80s. You’ll be greeted by striking neon signs and old arcade games such as Pacman and Street Fighter before you enter the industrial- chic club. 21 Mount Elizabeth Rd., York Hotel, 9760-3031
Dining Enclaves
Why settle for one restaurant when you can have several under the same roof? Two new food enclaves have been generating a lot of buzz, offering something for everyone.
This 628-seater food hall specializing in authentic Japanese cuisine has 16 casual- dining eateries from Japan’s various prefectures and cities such as Dassai Bar (Iwakuni), which is known for their fine sakes; Sato Yosuke (Tokyo), an udon specialist famous for their handmade udon that uses a 150-year-old technique; Nabe Seizan (Tokyo), an offshoot of two Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant Seizan; and more. #04-39/54 Wisma Atria Shopping Centre, 435 Orchard Rd.
This pretty restaurant, located at Wisma Atria, changes according to the four seasons, so expect an entirely new décor and food options every three months or so. The space has three distinctive sections: Flower Gardens, Picnic Park, and the Beer Garden. Food- wise, you’ll be spoilt for choice, with food truck-looking stalls offering you a smorgasbord of tantalizing treats from all over the world. #03-15/49 Wisma Atria Shopping Center, 435 Orchard Rd., 6734-8352
Festive Light-Ups
Christmas on a Great Street
The city’s hottest shopping stretch gears up for Christmas with its annual display of bright and glittery decorations, light fixtures, as well as glowing reindeers and sparkling stars over the roads and sidewalks. Keep a look out for the five unique and interactive installations, too. Nov 12-Jan 2, main stretch of Orchard Rd.
New Flagships
Hot on the heels of important retail openings earlier in the year, such as Uniqlo’s three-floor space at Orchard Central, Orchard Road has seen more brands open flagships. As of press time, Singapore’s first Apple store is set to open at Knighstsbridge, but in the meantime there are great new choices for fashionistas.
Michael Kors
The American designer’s new Southeast Asia flagship store is the first in the region to also stock the elegantly edgy men’s line, which occupies the two-story shop’s entire upper level. There is even a pool table for when you need a break from the shopping. #01-12/13 Mandarin Gallery, 333 Orchard Rd., 6242-0555
Victoria’s Secret lands in Singapore with its flagship store at Mandarin Gallery. The store is decked out in its iconic shade of pink and stocks the full assortment—their entire lingerie collection, fragrances, body care, athletic wear and their playful Victoria’s Secret PINK. On top of that, there will also be bra specialists on hand to assist you to find the perfect fit and if you need help in the fitting room, they’re a call button away. #01-01 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6242-0777
