Dinner and Drinks Singapore: Best Places for a Perfect Night Out
Published on August 26, 2025
Singapore’s vibrant food and drink scene offers something for every occasion—whether you're planning a romantic evening, a group hangout, or simply unwinding with casual dinner and drinks. From glitzy rooftop bars to cosy waterfront eateries, this city knows how to serve up the perfect combination of dining and nightlife.
In this blog, we take you on a culinary journey through the best places for dinner and drinks in Singapore. Whether you're a local planning your next night out or a tourist discovering the city's food culture, there's a spot for every mood and budget.
Why Singapore Is the Perfect City for Dinner and Drinks
Singapore is often called a food paradise—and for good reason. The city blends cultures from around the world, making its dining scene incredibly diverse. Add to that a world-class selection of bars, and you’ve got the ultimate playground for foodies and cocktail lovers.
What Makes Dining and Drinking in Singapore Special?
- Cultural Diversity: Enjoy Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, and Western dishes all within walking distance.
- Atmospheric Venues: From heritage shophouses to modern sky-high lounges.
- World-Class Mixology: Award-winning bartenders and unique, handcrafted cocktails.
- City Views: Enjoy stunning nightscapes with your meal, especially near Marina Bay or the CBD.
- Seasonal Deals: Many places offer weekday promotions and happy hours for affordable luxury.
Top Areas for Dinner and Drinks in Singapore
Whether you're craving North Indian delicacies, bar bites with cocktails, or fine dining with skyline views, Singapore has a neighbourhood to match your vibe. Here's a look at the top areas to explore for a memorable night of dinner and drinks:
1. Akasa at Tanjong Pagar
If you're searching for flavourful Indian cuisine paired with elegant ambiance and curated beverages, Akasa is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, Akasa offers authentic North Indian fine dining with beautifully plated dishes and a premium drink menu. Think handcrafted cocktails, spiced tandoori platters, and rich Mughlai curries in a chic, modern setting.
- Best For: Romantic dinners, upscale group dining with drinks
- Cuisine: North Indian classics with modern presentation
- Website: akasa.sg
2. Clarke Quay
The go-to district for energetic nights out, Clarke Quay is lined with lively bars, clubs, and riverside restaurants. From bar bites to full-course meals, this area is perfect for a casual dinner and drinks with a scenic backdrop.
- Best For: Group dining and bar hopping
- Vibe: Loud, fun, and festive
- Highlights: Zouk, Crazy Elephant, Octapas
3. Marina Bay
For a luxury night out, Marina Bay combines fine dining with iconic views. Enjoy a cocktail on a rooftop bar, followed by dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Best For: Romantic dinner spots and skyline views
- Vibe: Sleek, glamorous, and high-end
- Try: CE LA VI, Spago, LAVO
4. Dempsey Hill
Nestled in lush greenery, Dempsey Hill offers tranquil outdoor dining and intimate bars. It’s great for group dinners or date nights away from the city noise.
- Best For: Garden dining and wine nights
- Vibe: Peaceful and upscale
- Try: The Dempsey Cookhouse, Siri House
5. Club Street & Ann Siang Hill
Trendy and full of character, this charming area is filled with heritage shophouses that host chic restaurants and hidden bars.
- Best For: Date night or bar-hopping
- Vibe: Stylish, youthful, artsy
- Try: Lolla, The Screening Room, Nutmeg & Clove
6. Tanjong Pagar
Besides being home to Akasa, Tanjong Pagar boasts Korean BBQ joints, Japanese izakayas, and sleek speakeasies, making it a culinary melting pot.
- Best For: Food and drink variety in one place
- Vibe: Dynamic, multicultural, and lively
- Try: The Other Room, Shin Gi Tai, The Guild
7. Chinatown
A vibrant mix of street food, boutique bars, and rooftop lounges, Chinatown is where tradition meets trend. It’s ideal for a night of discovery.
- Best For: Unique food finds and quirky bars
- Vibe: Historic, bustling, and eclectic
- Try: Chinatown Food Street, Smith Street Taps
8. Keong Saik Road
This hip enclave is home to fusion restaurants and stylish cocktail bars. It’s a hotspot for young professionals and creatives.
- Best For: Modern dining and signature drinks
- Vibe: Cool, chic, slightly bohemian
- Try: The Old Man, Butcher Boy, Potato Head Singapore
9. Holland Village
Known for its mix of Western restaurants and casual pubs, Holland V is a go-to for expats and anyone looking for a hill dinner and drinks.
- Best For: Casual weekend hangouts
- Vibe: Relaxed and expat-friendly
- Try: Wala Wala Cafe Bar, La Nonna, El Patio
10. Bugis & Haji Lane
Bugis is known for vibrant Middle Eastern eateries, indie bars, and colourful shophouses. It’s great for a laid-back night filled with character.
- Best For: Quirky, affordable dining and nightlife
- Vibe: Hip, artsy, alternative
- Try: Piedra Negra, Blu Jaz Cafe
11. Robertson Quay
Less crowded than Clarke Quay but equally scenic, this riverside stretch is full of modern bistros and cozy wine bars.
- Best For: Chill riverside dinner and drinks
- Vibe: Upscale and tranquil
- Try: Publico, Les Bouchons, Shunjuu Izakaya
12. East Coast Road (Katong & Joo Chiat)
For a more local experience, the east side offers Peranakan heritage, hearty food, and craft beer bars. It’s ideal for foodies who love culture and authenticity.
- Best For: Local eats with character
- Vibe: Nostalgic, homely, and culture-rich
- Try: The Tipsy Cow, Rabbit Carrot Gun, Smokey’s BBQ
Budget-Friendly Food and Drink Deals in Singapore
You don’t always have to splurge for a great night out. Many restaurants offer affordable food and drink deals in Singapore, especially during:
- Happy Hours: 1-for-1 drinks and bar bites (5 pm to 8 pm)
- Ladies’ Nights: Complimentary cocktails on select weekdays
- Set Menus: Dinner and drinks combos at fixed prices
Notable Deals:
- The Penny Black – British pub with beer combos
- Tanuki Raw – Oysters and martinis for under $10
- Wine Connection – Affordable wine with cheese platters
Dinner and Drinks for Every Occasion
For First Dates
- Bar Cicheti – Wine and pasta
- Merci Marcel – Bohemian vibes and French food
For Group Gatherings
- Don’t Tell Mama – Fun Korean-Western fusion and soju
- The Drunken Poet – Irish pub perfect for large crowds
For Family Dinners
- Spago by Wolfgang Puck – Family-friendly with classy vibes
- Canopy Garden Dining – Open-air and pet-friendly
Tips for the Perfect Night Out
- Make Reservations: Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
- Check Dress Codes: Some rooftop or high-end places require smart casual attire.
- Look Out for Promotions: Use platforms like Chope, Burpple, or Eatigo for discounts.
- Travel Smart: Use MRT or Grab to avoid parking hassles and drink responsibly.
Conclusion
Whether you're seeking romantic dinner spots, exploring popular restaurants in Singapore, or craving Indian sweets, Singapore’s food scene has you covered. From rooftop cocktails to hearty curries and everything in between, there’s always something new to savour.
Looking to elevate your next dinner and drinks outing? Make your reservation at Akasa and discover how North Indian dining meets modern luxury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most places close around 10:30 PM to midnight, though some rooftop bars and clubs stay open later on weekends.
No, tipping is not required. A 10% service charge is usually included.
Yes, many halal-certified restaurants offer non-alcoholic mocktails and Muslim-friendly meals.
Absolutely. Try places like Akasha, PS. Cafe, or The Living Café.
Check out Dempsey Hill, Seletar Aerospace Park, or restaurants in heritage hotels.
Some high-end rooftop spots may have a minimum spend, especially for window seating.
Evening around 6:30 to 7:30 PM is ideal for sunset views and cooler weather.
Yes, many restaurants are family-friendly, though bars may restrict under-18s after a certain time.
Smart casual is usually required. Avoid flip-flops or shorts in upscale places.
Yes. Places in Clarke Quay, Holland Village, and some 24-hour diners offer late-night menus.