This spot’s something of an institution, and that works both for and against it. While we can’t get too excited by the dim lighting and rather dated decor, it draws an easygoing crowd, and is very fairly priced ($55 with free flow of fresh juices; $85 plus house pour wine and beer; $125 with Champagne). Avoid the so-so buffet (on our recent visit, a nicely fiery Thai beef salad but a weak sushi selection), in favor of the seafood counter. And though the carving station is good, it has nothing on the a la carte options (meats, maybe some prawns and even eggs benny under the heading “Thrill of the Grill”).
Sun noon-3pm.
Brunch at Basilico is so popular that it spills into the restaurant’s various rooms, including private dining rooms and the adjacent atrium-like bar. No matter where you sit, the experience is lively but not too loud; we prefer the main area by the windows overlooking the pool. If you love Italian food then this is the brunch for you (Sat: $98 includes Zardeto Prosecco, booze-free’s $56; Sun: $139 includes Mumm’s, wine, fruit juices and various martinis, buffet only is $69); from drool-worthy mounds of sliced meats to dozens of cheeses you won’t find anywhere else to cooked-to-order hot dishes like lamb chops as bloody as you like ‘em to a rotating selection of pastas and gelato, the quality and selection here at brunch is far superior to what the majority of Singapore Italian restaurants serve at dinner. Better service, too. Look out for the focaccia mascarpone with Parma ham and rocket, black truffle risotto, and pan-fried foie gras delivered to your table.
Sat noon-2:30pm; Sun noon-3pm.
Set in a historic shophouse in posh neighborhood Bukit Timah, this gastrobar is anything but uppity or pompous. Dine to the tunes of country western music at this quaint restaurant that has fast become a comfortable hangout for those staying nearby. Apart from the music and its cosy laid-back vibe, their brunch menu boasts affordable quality grub. Chow down on dishes like the Great Sunrise($17)—eggs, pork bratwurst, bacon, rosti, herbed tomato, sautéed mushroom, and baked beans—and corned beef hash, topped with a sunny side-up ($15). Accompany it with a drink (or more!) from the wide selection of beers and wine.
Sun 10am-11pm.
In a neat space that takes full advantage of its high-ceilinged Cluny Court architecture, Relish offers a solid package of above-average atmosphere, food and service at above average prices. The brunch menu is more lunch than breakfast, with burgers and pastas featured as prominently as eggs. Great for larger parties in search of a venue that can accommodate them (but you MUST book); not so hot if you’re looking for a peaceful morning (when the tables are full it has the look and sound of an expat daycare center) or value for money. Expect to pay at least $50 for two; our eggs benedict set us back $18.80, the breakfast platter’s $19 and a “fresh” strawberry shake goes for $9.80.
Sat-Sun 10:30am-4pm.
There’s something about dining at Spruce that makes us feel stylish and chic. The food spot is a hot favorite with the trendy and affluent crowd. Dining alfresco amidst the lush greenery on an idyllic weekend is pretty perfect. Be charmed by their brunch dishes such as soft scrambled eggs with avruga caviar and smoked salmon ($18), brioche french toast with mascarpone and peach jam ($14), and Spruce’s signature ahi tuna tartar with toasted ciabatta and avocado ($22). We recommend ending your meal with their baked ginger date pudding ($15) or their famed cheescake ($12).
Sat-Sun 9am-3.45pm.
The black-and-white tiled floor of this homely bistro is reminiscent of a Peranakan matriarch’s kitchen. It’s definitely a place you would take your family for some scrumptious comfort food. Other than her signature Nyonya fare, Violet Oon also marries local delights with western classics to create unique innovations. There’s a mean brunch (served up in generous portions), with specials like nutella quesadilla and otah panini that are big enough to tide you through dinner. Quench your thirst with refreshing passion fruit-citrus juice ($7).
Sat-Sun 9:30am-3pm.
More Brunch Recommendations:
Romantic brunch recommendations
Brunch places for special occasions