If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian flavours meet, you’ll find the answer in Peranakan cuisine. Known for its rich spices, aromatic herbs, and heartwarming recipes passed down through generations, Peranakan (or Nyonya) food is a true celebration of culture and comfort. Whether you’re a local craving familiar dishes or a visitor eager to experience authentic Straits-born flavours, Singapore offers some of the best spots to indulge in this heritage cuisine.
Here are five must-visit restaurants that bring the vibrant taste of Peranakan culture to life, beginning with one of the most beloved names in the scene.
1. PeraMakan
(Image source – PeraMakan)
Founded by fourth-generation Nyonya Kathryn Ho, PeraMakan is more than just a restaurant and serves as a heartfelt tribute to Peranakan heritage. Inspired by the traditional family kitchens of Malacca and Penang, PeraMakan presents dishes that balance nostalgia and authenticity, using recipes that have been lovingly passed down through generations.
(Image source – Alex Chow)
The ambience feels warm and homely, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy Sunday lunch. Regulars praise the restaurant for its tender, flavourful meats and generous portions, especially standout dishes like Beef Rendang, Garam Assam Fish Head, and Nyonya Chap Chye. Don’t miss the Blue Pea Rice, which adds a beautiful pop of colour to your plate, or end your meal with a bowl of Chendol Gula Melaka for that sweet, satisfying finish.
Address:
119 Owen Rd, Singapore 218924
Social Media Accounts:
Operation Hours:
Daily: 11:30 am–3 pm, 5–9 pm
Recommended dishes: Beef Rendang, Garam Assam Fish Head, Nyonya Chap Chye, Blue Pea Rice, Chendol Gula Melaka, Nyonya Ngoh Hiang, Soup
2. Candlenut
(Image source – Candlenut)
If you’re looking to experience Peranakan cuisine with a touch of fine dining, Candlenut is the place to go. As the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut masterfully blends tradition and innovation, offering a refined take on Straits-Chinese flavours without losing their soul.
Helmed by Chef Malcolm Lee, the restaurant celebrates heritage while experimenting with modern techniques and seasonal ingredients. Each dish is crafted with care, elevating familiar Peranakan recipes into something elegant yet comforting. Diners can opt for the “Ah-ma-kase” tasting menu, which presents a curated journey through 13 small dishes, from Roti Jala with Beef Kapitan Curry to Udang Nanas and Yeye’s Curry with Crab, each bursting with flavour and personality.
(Image source – Sherman Tan)
Located in the lush Dempsey Hill area, Candlenut’s tasteful décor and warm service make it perfect for a special night out or a meaningful celebration. While it’s more of a splurge compared to other Peranakan spots, the experience — from presentation to flavour — is truly one of a kind.
.Address:
17a Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249676
Social Media Accounts:
Operation Hours:
Daily: 12 pm –3 pm,6–10 pm
Recommended dishes: Hee Peow Soup, Kueh Pie Tee, Deep-Fried Carrot Cake, Wing Bean Salad, Blue Swimmer Crab Curry, Westholme Wagyu Beef Rib Rendang, Cendol
3. Bonding Kitchen
(Image source – Vincent Leung)
A hidden gem for those seeking heartfelt and beautifully plated Peranakan cuisine, Bonding Kitchen reflects the passion and journey of its founder, Chef Danny Chew. With over 25 years of culinary experience, Chef Danny started humbly as a kitchen helper at 17 before refining his craft across Asia and even in the UK. His dedication to preserving and elevating Peranakan flavours shines through every dish served at his first restaurant in Singapore.
Chef Danny’s vision goes beyond food, he hopes to bring people together, celebrating Singapore’s multicultural heritage through cuisine that inspires harmony and connection. The restaurant embodies this philosophy with its cosy ambience, attentive service, and dishes that feel both comforting and sophisticated.
(Image source – bondingkitchen.com)
Highlights from the menu include Wagyu Beef Rendang, slow-cooked with over 15 local herbs and spices until perfectly tender, and Ayam Buah Keluak, a beloved Peranakan classic bursting with rich, earthy flavours. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Barramundi Fish Assam Pedas and Udang Sambal Petai, both vibrant and full of spice.
Address:
277 Orchard Rd, #02-18 Orchard, Singapore 238858
Social Media Accounts:
Operation Hours:
Daily: 11:30 am–9:30 pm
Recommended dishes: Kueh Pie Tee, Ngoh Hiang, Wagyu Beef Rendang, Ayam Buah Keluak, Barramundi Fish Assam Pedas, Udang Sambal Petai, Nyonya Chap Chye, Homemade Chendol
4. Nyonyas & Gentlemen
(Image source – Nyonyas & Gentlemen)
For a modern, vibrant take on Peranakan cuisine, Nyonyas & Gentlemen (NAG) in Katong offers a unique fusion dining experience. Located on Level 4 of Village Hotel Katong, NAG is surrounded by colourful Peranakan-inspired architecture and a lively ambience that immediately sets the mood for a memorable meal. The restaurant prides itself on approachable and accessible Peranakan-inspired dishes, combining traditional flavours with contemporary presentation to cater to a wide range of diners.
(Image source – Nyonyas & Gentlemen)
Whether you’re visiting for their à la carte menu or buffet spreads, NAG offers a variety of authentic Nyonya flavours alongside creative fusion dishes. Signature offerings like the creamy Laksa, tender Beef Rendang, and earthy Ayam Buah Keluak have won praise from both locals and visitors.
Other favourites include crispy Kueh Pie Tee, flavourful Otah, and playful fusion items like Chicken Karaage and Fried Ice Cream, adding fun to the meal. With attentive staff and vibrant décor, it’s an ideal spot for casual gatherings, group dinners, or special occasions.
Address:
25 Marine Parade Rd, Level 4 @, Singapore 449536
Social Media Accounts:
Operation Hours:
Daily: 6:30 am–9:30 pm
Recommended dishes: Laksa, Beef Rendang, Ayam Buah Keluak, Kueh Pie Tee, Otah, Chicken Karaage, Fried Ice Cream
5. Dulukala Peranakan
(Image source – Dulukala Peranakan)
For those craving genuine, heartwarming Peranakan comfort food, Dulukala Peranakan is a true hidden gem that embodies the spirit of home-style cooking. Run by Boss Zan, who personally cooks and preserves his family’s treasured recipes, Dulukala is all about authenticity, warmth, and heart. Each dish feels lovingly prepared, the kind of food that reminds you of family dinners and recipes passed down through generations. Diners praise the restaurant’s generosity, flavour, and welcoming service that makes everyone feel like an old friend returning home.
(Image source – Thomas Koh)
Signature dishes such as Babi Pongteh, Beef Rendang, and Fish Otak stand out for their rich flavours and tender textures, while the Ikan Assam Pedas and Udang Masak Nanas deliver that perfect balance of spice and tang. Don’t miss their Homemade Ngoh Hiang, a crowd favourite often ordered in multiples, and the Ladies’ Fingers with Ikan Bilis, which packs irresistible wok hei.
Address:
148 Silat Ave, Kopi Haus, Singapore 160148
Social Media Accounts:
Operation Hours:
Everyday except Monday: 11:30 am–3 pm, 5:30–9 pm
Recommended dishes: Babi Pongteh, Beef Rendang, Fish Otak, Ikan Assam Pedas, Udang Masak Nanas, Ngoh Hiang, Ladies’ Fingers with Ikan Bilis, Bakwan Kepiting
Conclusion
Peranakan cuisine is a true celebration of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage, combining bold flavours, aromatic spices, and intricate techniques passed down through generations. Whether you’re seeking comforting home-style dishes or refined modern interpretations, indulging in Nyonya food is a journey of taste, history, and tradition that will leave a lasting impression.
If you’re looking to continue your culinary adventure in Singapore, check out other related guides such as the Top 10 Must Try Muslim Friendly Halal Restaurants in Singapore 2025, for more dining inspiration across the city.
