When one thinks of Orchard Road, the last thing that comes to mind is a gastronomic experience. Yes perhaps there are better places elsewhere but that doesn’t mean that Singapore’s shopping belt is culinarily barren.
If you know where to look, there are honest eateries and restaurants run by eager restaurateurs – not the cookie cutter soulless establishments that serve food cooked in central kitchens.
From French cafes to artisanal pizzas and even a slice of Singapore’s heritage, here are five restaurants in Orchard Road that’s worth your time.
Merci Marcel
French cafe Merci Marcel at Palais Renaissance is the perfect place to grab a seat and enjoy a meal if you’ve had a long day of shopping. The interiors are bright and chirpy, and the food is simply delicious. There’s a range of salads if you’re watching your calories but if you have the appetite, we’d highly recommend the Ravioles de Royans, a type of ravioli that’s stuffed with Tête de Moine cheese.
Hanare by Takayama
If you think premium Japanese food costs an arm and a leg then Hanare by Takayama, a casual eatery in Takashimaya which specialises in kamameshi will set the record straight. This comforting Japanese dish translates to “kettle rice” where rice, with an assortment of ingredients is cooked in an iron pot. The restaurant uses only top end ingredients along with a rotating selection of artisanal rice varieties, many of which quickly sell out during lunch time.
Blue label pizza and wine
Cravings for pizza are real and the thing is, there just isn’t a lack of pizza places in Orchard. That is of course, if you consider the likes of Pezzo and Pizza Express worth putting into your mouth. Skip all these chains and get yourself a seat at Blue Label Pizza and Wine. This trendy pizza place hits all the right spots for a good pizza: a crispy crust, a base with a good crumb and only quality ingredients to crown each pie.
Kausmo
If there is one restaurant on this list that’s worth making a trip to Orchard Road solely to dine, it’s Kausmo. The establishment is fronted by chef and co-founder Lisa Tang in partnership with the Les Amis Group and looks to present lesser-loved ingredients in a high-end setting. These are interpreted using European techniques with Asian influences on the plate with an aim to promote conscientious dining and serving good food with a good cause.
Violet Oon
Peranakan food – once slow-dancing into the sunset – is everywhere these days, including at ION Orchard, the beating heart of Orchard Road. The space is casual so you can pop in any time of day for a hearty meal or just dessert – or dig into classic Peranakan dishes like babi pongteh and ayam buah keluak. There is also a plant-based menu should you be dining with a friend who doesn’t partake in meat.
