By Jocelyn Tan,
Singapore Art Week is all about making moves – whether it's discovering an underground gallery at Gillman Barracks or vibing with friends at the National Gallery (be sure to check our recommended highlights here). But who wants to starve artistically... right? This guide brings together your inner foodie and art critic, with the coolest eats near Singapore’s top art spots.
NEAR THE NATIONAL GALLERY SINGAPORE
The National Gallery Singapore (NGS) is the place to be this Art Week. From Kim Lim’s sculptures and prints in The Space Between to Teo Eng Seng’s cheeky We’re Happy. Are You Happy?, the exhibitions here are a vibe. Add Becoming Lim Tze Peng for some ink-on-paper magic, plus the Light to Night Festival’s interactive glow-up, and you’ve got a full day of culture. Whether you're into retrospectives or just want to snap some iconic festival shots, the NGS has got you covered
CASA VOSTRA
Think of Casa Vostra as your Italian bestie – laid-back, cosy, and always serving comfort vibes. Their wood-fired pizzas come topped with ingredients that’ll make your taste buds dance. Not in the mood for pizza? Its handmade pastas are like edible hugs, perfect for post-art refuelling. The rustic interiors and relaxed atmosphere make it the kind of place where carbs don’t count and the wine keeps flowing. It’s Italy, but with a local twist.
#01-49/51 Raffles City S.C.
GATHER
Gather is like stepping into an aesthetic Instagram post – clean lines, chic décor, and vibes for days. The crepes here are TDF, whether you're in the mood for something sweet, savoury, or downright indulgent. Its coffee game is on point too, so you can sip and snack like the art critic you are. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger, chat, and maybe order another crêpe (or two).
#01-12 Raffles Shopping Arcade
CAFE KITSUNE SINGAPORE
Cafe Kitsune is serving that Paris-meets-Tokyo energy, and we’re here for it. From their sleek interiors to their brewed coffees, this spot is as much about the vibe as it is about the menu. The space feels curated yet cosy, making it a haven for design enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike. Whether you’re recharging after a gallery crawl or just flexing your coffee order, this café is giving main character energy. Come for the coffee, stay for the drip.
#01-11 Capitol Singapore
THE MASSES
If you haven’t had enough fun exploring the exhibitions, make sure to stop by The Masses – a playground for your taste buds. Its dishes are bold, creative, and lowkey addictive (we’re looking at you, duck confit with wok hei noodles). It’s the kind of place where you try something new and end up dreaming about it later. The vibe is vibrant and fun, perfect for a foodie adventure or a casual catch-up. Delicious, exciting, and always surprising – The Masses knows how to keep it fresh.
#01-84 Capitol Singapore
DOUGH
Dough is what happens when a bakery and a bistro have a glow-up. Their fresh-baked breads are the MVPs here, but don’t sleep on their hearty mains, which are perfect for refuelling after a gallery marathon. Their signature buckwheat sourdough loaves are the kind of carb that sparks joy (Marie Kondo would approve), but if you’re feeling a little more than peckish, the Wild Cod is a great option too.
#01-30 CHIJMES
NEAR TANJONG PAGAR DISTRIPARK
If you're into edgy vibes and contemporary energy, Tanjong Pagar Distripark is the place to be. Start at S.E.A. Focus, the annual highlight showcasing cutting-edge Southeast Asian art, then dive into thought-provoking exhibitions like No Patents on Ideas by Pratchaya Phinthong and Mansau-Ansau by Yee I-Lann. Feeling experimental? Everyday Practices unpacks the art of daily life, while Sonic Sessions brings music and art together for a vibe-filled night.
NYLON COFFEE
Nylon Coffee is where precision meets passion – a caffeine shrine for those who take its coffee seriously. This spot is all about ethically sourced beans and pour-overs so smooth, they could double as love letters. No frills, no fluff – just incredible coffee that speaks for itself. It’s the perfect place for a quiet moment and a cup that hits just right. Pro tip: Grab a bag of its beans and bring the magic home.
4 Everton Park, #01-40
BAG ME UP BAGEL HOUSE
(Takeaway only) Bag Me Up serves up big, bold flavours that’ll have you coming back for more. From classics like smoked salmon and cream cheese to indulgent creations like chicken and mushrooms with truffle sauce and cheese, its menu satisfies every craving. With a laid-back, playful vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a quick yet satisfying meal. Where comfort food meets creativity, one bagel at a time.
2 Everton Park, #01-59B
CAFE WABI SABI
Specialising in sandos and donburi bowls, Cafe Wabi Sabi transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into something unforgettable. Picture pillowy bread filled with perfectly crispy katsu or rice bowls topped with tender, flavour-packed cuts that’ll keep you coming back for more. With minimalist interiors and serene vibes, it’s the ideal spot to slow down and savour every bite. Whether you're craving a quick sando fix or a hearty donburi, Cafe Wabi Sabi keeps it simple, stylish, and irresistibly satisfying.
3 Everton Park, #01-79
FOLIAGE RESTAURANT
Foliage is a cosy 14-seater that packs big, bold flavours into an intimate setting. Think of it as your foodie bestie, blending Singapore’s multi-ethnic culture with seasonal produce from around the world. Led by Chef Dillon Ng – who has honed his craft at Allium, Gastrosmiths, and The Humble Loaf – this spot offers a single tasting menu that changes every few months, ensuring a fresh adventure with every visit. Reservations are essential, but the payoff? A personal, curated dining experience that’s totally worth the hype.
11 Kee Seng Street, #01-03
THE PUBLIC IZAKAYA
The Public Izakaya brings Tokyo street vibes to Singapore, and it’s a whole mood. The yakitori skewers? Pure fire. The ramen? Absolutely slurptastic. Pair it with a glass (or two) of sake, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a good time. With its buzzing atmosphere, it's ideal for post-gallery hangouts with the crew.
100 Tras Street, #01-09
ALICE BOULANGERIE
Alice Boulangerie has just levelled up, and it’s serving both dessert dreams and dinner goals. After a month-long revamp, this beloved homegrown spot reopened with refreshed interiors, a larger dining area, and a revamped dinner menu that’s making waves. Think otak prawn croquettes with kaffir lime mayo or irresistible pork belly claypot rice loaded with crispy, charred bits (yes, it’s as good as it sounds). Still hungry? Their tiger prawn capellini and wagyu beef cheek risotto are absolute must-tries. And don’t skip dessert—the Pebbles (black sesame mochi, peanut butter crumble, and more) and the iconic Squirrel (flourless chocolate cake with salted caramel crèmeux) are pure showstoppers.
#01-05/11 Icon Village
NEAR GILLMAN BARRACKS
Gillman Barracks is bringing the cool factor this Art Week with a lineup that celebrates creativity and connection. Singkarpor REMIXED, by frequent FEMALE collaborator Aik Beng Chia, offers a fresh perspective on Singaporean identity, while Art After Dark transforms the entire precinct into a late-night art party you won’t want to miss.
THE NAKED FINN
The Naked Finn proves that sometimes, less is more. Its seafood-centric menu is simple yet delivers big on flavour – think perfectly pan-fried barramundi and silky prawn somen that taste like the ocean in a bowl. The sleek, minimalist setting keeps the focus squarely on what matters: the food. Delicious and unpretentious, this spot is a true seafood lover’s paradise.
39 Malan Road, Gillman Barracks
THE BLACKBIRD
This stylish bar and dining spot comes alive with performances that’ll have you swaying between bites. Its menu features shareable dishes like pizzas and flavour-packed pasta, perfect for fueling your night. Whether you’re here for the music, the drinks, or the full experience, The Blackbird makes every evening feel like an event.
8 Lock Road
KAFFA BELLA
Kaffa Bella is all about good vibes, acai, and coffee. The pours are light and smooth, delivering a gentle boost that feels like a pep talk from your best friend. Add a cup of antioxidants, and you’ve got the perfect escape. It’s the kind of café where you can sip, chill, and recharge, all without any pretension.
47 Malan Road, #01-22
WHEELER'S TROPIKANA
Wheeler’s Tropikana is like a tropical resort, minus the airfare. With a pool, lush greenery, and rattan everything, it’s bringing island getaway vibes right into the heart of the city. Sip cocktails by the pool or unwind in the plush indoor lounge – it's all about ultimate relaxation. The food? A delicious mix of Australian, New Zealand, and Southeast Asian flavours, featuring crowd-pleasers like kani eggs and crab & squid ink croquettes that will leave you swooning. Bonus: live bands ramp up the atmosphere every night.
9A Lock Road
VINEYARD
Vineyard is all about fresh, local, and fabulous. It is acing the farm-to-table game, using ingredients straight from nearby farms, so every bite is bursting with flavour and positive vibes. The pan-seared grey mullet and duck confit are absolute showstoppers – fresh, delicious, and definitely worth the hype. Plus, dining here means supporting local farmers and the planet – proof that food and nature make the perfect pair.
#02-02 Hort Park
NEAR ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM AND MARINA BAY SANDS
Immerse yourself in the whimsical nostalgia of The World of Studio Ghibli at the ArtScience Museum, or feel the excitement at Art SG, Southeast Asia's largest art fair. For an iconic experience, explore Behind Jean-Michel Basquiat and discover the genius of one of modern art’s most legendary figures. Beyond the vibey food and drinking haunts within the Marina Bay Sands complex, the surrounding area offers countless other options if you’re looking to explore further.
ROBERTA’S
Roberta's wood-fired pizzas are legendary – imagine crusts so good they could have their own fan club, with toppings that are bold, fresh, and downright addictive. The industrial-chic vibe exudes effortless cool, making it the perfect spot for a casual hang or a post-art feast. Bonus: there are non-pizza gems on the menu too, but let's be honest – you’re here for the pie. Get ready to cheat on every other pizza you’ve ever loved.
#B1-45 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
BACHA COFFEE
Drinking coffee at Bacha Coffee isn’t just a caffeine fix – it’s a full main character moment. With its golden arches and Moroccan-glam interiors, this is where you go to feel fancy. Their menu boasts over 200 coffee blends, offering a match for every taste, and every choice is a winning swipe. Pair your brew with their indulgent pastries for the ultimate bougie break.
#B2-13/14 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
TRUE COST
True Cost flips the dining game with its "pay-for-what-you-eat" concept, and honestly? We’re obsessed. This spot serves high-end dishes without the hefty price tag, so you can flex on your feed without breaking the bank. The seafood platters and premium steaks are a chef's kiss, but the real star? The transparency. Chic interiors, stunning plates, and no hidden fees.
#03-302/303 Suntec City
CAFFE FERNET
If vibes could cook, they'd be working at Caffe Fernet. This waterfront gem nails the trifecta: breathtaking Marina Bay views, mouthwatering Italian dishes, and cocktails that’ll instantly elevate your mood. The burrata? As soft as a love song. The pasta? You won’t regret ordering the Cacio e Pepe. And don't even get us started on the spritzes. It’s the place to live your best life, one bite (and sip) at a time.
#01-05 Customs House
OVEREASY
OverEasy is where retro diner vibes meet all-American indulgence. Juicy burgers, gooey mac and cheese, and boozy milkshakes are just the beginning. The cheesy fries? A must-try. And with Marina Bay views adding that extra touch of magic, it’s the ideal spot to kick back with friends or treat yourself to a calorie-packed feast you won’t regret. Come hungry, leave happy.
#01-06 One Fullerton
LEVEL33
LeVeL33 is a whole vibe. Perched above the city skyline, this microbrewery serves up craft beers alongside epic views. Think juicy burgers, mussels, and more, all perfectly paired with their signature lager. Whether you're stopping by for a post-gallery beer flight or enjoying a bougie dinner with a stunning city-light backdrop, this is the spot to be.
#33-01 Tower 1, 8 Marina Boulevard
NEAR WATERLOO CENTRE, BLACKBOX AT 42 WATERLOO STREET AND VISUAL ARTS CENTRE EXHIBITION GALLERY @ DHOBY GHAUT
At Dhoby Ghaut, Beyond Giving, Inspiring Change will shift your perspective on generosity and its impact. Over at Waterloo Street, Affective Architecture explores the intersection of emotions and design, while FARM’s | | on Paper features dreamy works on paper by Kirti Upadhyaya and Hong Shu-ying. It’s all about quiet creativity and unexpected discoveries – ideal for the art lover who enjoys venturing off the beaten path.
TIPO PASTA BAR
Tipo Pasta Bar is the ultimate destination for handmade pasta, offering endless customization and bold flavors. Create your perfect bowl from scratch, choosing from unique sauces and fresh pasta shapes. Affordable yet delicious, Tipo proves that great pasta doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Pro tip: always add extra cheese – it’s a game-changer.
155 Waterloo St, #01-08
CAFE MANNA
Nestled in a charming 1948 chapel, this Dhoby Ghaut gem combines high ceilings, stained glass, and sunlit interiors to create the perfect backdrop for everything from brunch dates to private parties. The menu, crafted by Culinary Institute of America grads Bettina and Alson, features comforting brunch dishes and freshly baked goods. Whether you’re here for the food, the vibes, or both, this is where history meets heart.
31 Mount Sophia
KURASU SINGAPORE
Kurasu is for coffee lovers who take their beans seriously but still want to look cute doing it. This minimalist gem brews everything with Japanese precision, from silky matcha lattes to perfectly balanced pour-overs. Try their crowd-favourite Matcha Latte Espresso, and you’ll feel recharged faster than your phone on a 90 per cent battery.
261 Waterloo St, #01-24
MAMA DIAM
Step into Mama Diam, and it’s like your childhood got a glow-up. Tucked behind a retro storefront, this speakeasy café-bar serves local-inspired dishes with a cheeky twist – think laksa pasta and satay sliders that are way too good to share. The cocktails lean into nostalgic vibes too, with flavours like bandung and pandan. The atmosphere is vintage, the food is playful, and the whole experience feels like a secret you’ll be eager to share.
38 Prinsep Street, #01-01
YAT KA YAN DESSERT
Yat Ka Yan is a dessert haven, and its durian chendol steals the spotlight. Creamy, rich durian pairs perfectly with shaved ice, pandan jelly, and gula melaka in a blend that hits all the sweet notes. While the menu offers plenty of classic Chinese desserts, durian lovers know this is the real star. The vibe is humble yet lively, drawing both locals and visitors for a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist. If you're craving something sweet and uniquely Singaporean, this spot is a must-visit.
#02-08 Fortune Centre