From theater acts to live performances and a myriad of festivals, there’s always a reason for you to nose-dive into the world of art lined up at the Esplanade; but why stop there? Master the art of lunching on the Bay at these five restaurants, away from the city’s bustle.

Alter Ego
 

Opened by the same sibling duo that brought you A Poke Theory, the evil sister outlet Alter Ego takes on the same industrial-chic concept and gives it a darker twist on all fronts. Set on the ground floor of Esplanade Mall, it faces the Marina Bay waterfront and serves up not just healthier lunch options but you just won’t be able to get enough of their delicious Hawaiian poke bowls. You can get a sashimi poke bowl and a drink at $12.90*, and trust us, you’ll want it for the ‘Gram. #01-13D, Annexe
 

Barossa Restaurant & Bar
 

Nobody leaves the Bay without a much needed pitstop at Barossa Restaurant & Bar. The rustic and relaxed ambience complements Barossa's Australian fusion fare set against the backdrop of the waterfront as well. You definitely want to come with an empty stomach and tuck into burgers, seafood and premium grades of Australian beef. Choose from 3 different two-course set lunch options starting from $13.90*. #01-11

Gajalee
 

Spice up your lunch with the freshest seafood and glorifying flavours at the go-to Indian restaurant Gajalee. Unlike the typical Indian restaurant, a truly ethnic cuisine awaits you at Gajalee, including seafood with signatures such as Tandoori Crab, Crab Masala, Lobster Butter Pepper, Jumbo Pudina Prawns and Chinese Pomfret Green Chilli Sauce. Pick from 4 set menus (Prawns, Chicken, Vegetable or Fish) with a drink at just $11*. #02-12
 

Restaurant Labyrinth
 

As one of Singapore’s prized Michelin-starred restaurants, Restaurant Labyrinth’s retained its 1-star Michelin status for the second year running. You almost have no reason to pass up on a chance to level up your lunch game with a delectable four-course menu at $68*. Presenting local flavours with a twist, your tastebuds are in for a treat as the lunch menu features some of their signatures like Nasi Lemak Cheong Fan and Ang Moh Chicken Rice. #02-23
 

Tomo Izakaya
 

If you’re on a mission for Japanese food that can simply make your hearts (and stomachs) full, you’ll need to stop by Tomo Izakaya. Much like the original Tomo Izakaya outlet in Clarke Quay, this 100-seater izakaya on the ground level is nothing short of amazing choices. You might want to come a little earlier for lunch here because you’ll definitely need some time to choose from 20 lunch bento sets! Try their don set lunch with free-flow rice and miso soup, starting from $12*. #01-09

Other than our picks, check out 5 other restaurants you’d like for a lunchtime getaway on the Bay here from now till 31 March 2019*. Plus, forget the hassle of parking or driving because you can now take $5* off your Grab rides to Esplanade on weekdays from 12-2pm. *Terms and conditions apply.