Level Up Your First Date Game: Singapore's Hottest Spots for Every Budget (and Vibe!)

First dates can feel like walking a tightrope. You want to be relaxed yet make a memorable impression. Whether you’re swiping right on a new match or meeting someone through friends, the right spot can set the tone for great conversation, shared laughs, and genuine connection. 

From cosy coffee bars to moody pasta spots, these hand‑picked Singaporean spots are here to help you nail that perfect first outing. Just bring your best self (and maybe a loose itinerary of fun talking points), and let the vibes do the rest!

Affordable first date spots (under $20 per person)

1. Kurasu (Waterloo)

Estimated cost: Less than $10 per pax

This minimalist Kyoto-style cafe is perfect for an introvert-friendly date. Low-pressure, aesthetically pleasing, and great for museum-adjacent hangs. Order the new seasonal soda (pineapple, passionfruit
candied pineapple slices) or the hot soy choc with a coffee shot and matcha latte for those hot, humid days.

2. No Horse Run (Yishun)

Estimated cost: Less than $10 per pax

A uniquely local gelato and waffle bar with late-night hours and playful flavours. Great for dessert dates that feel fun and casual. Cookie points if both of you have a sweet tooth. Flash your student card and you'll get a special pricing too!

3. Cafe Monochrome (Chinatown)

Estimated cost: About $10 to $20 per pax

The 2D oriental comic book theme makes it instantly fun and quirky. Great for breaking the ice and getting cute Instagram stories without being too extra. Indulge in the Monochrome’s Brunch (S$20) and top if off with a double scoop of ice-cream to share.

4. Joji’s Diner (Serangoon)

Estimated cost: About $10 to $20 per pax

80s-themed retro diner vibes with milkshakes and all-day waffles, served in a space straight out of a nostalgic teen movie. It’s lighthearted, unique, and super Instagram-friendly. Best of all, it’s open 24/7 for spontaneous late-night hangs or post-party comfort food runs.

Luxury(ish) first date spots (above $20 per person)

5. Tipo Pasta Bar (Waterloo)

Estimated cost: About $20 to $30 per pax

Build-your-own-pasta in a rustic, cosy space that feels personal without being overly pricey. The warm wooden decor and chill ambience make it ideal for an early dinner after a walk around Bugis.

6. SYIP (Farrer Park)

Estimated cost: About $20 to $30 per pax

A minimalist dream cafe for clean brunch plates and soft lighting. Aesthetic, calm, and a great way to show you have taste. Order the Potato Cream Curry Udon w Pork Katsu, Truffle cheese toastie, Banana Pudding Matcha/Hojicha Latte and the Kahlua Tiramis if you're feeling fancy!

7. The Masses (City Hall)

Estimated cost: About $40 per pax

Modern French-Asian fusion done right, The Masses serves up bold, creative dishes designed to impress. The ambience strikes a nice balance: trendy enough to feel special, but relaxed enough to laugh over awkward first date moments.

8. Bar Cicheti (Keong Saik)

Estimated cost: About $50 per pax

If you’re looking to impress without screaming “I tried too hard,” this pasta-and-wine bar oozes quiet confidence with its moody lighting, exposed brick walls, and silky housemade tagliatelle. It’s the kind of place where sharing burrata feels flirty.

First date dos and don’ts

Dos

• Be punctual: Showing up on time shows respect for your date’s schedule and nerves.
• Dress for the vibe: Match the restaurant’s energy: casual-chic for coffee, a dash more effort for candlelit pasta.
• Listen actively: Ask open‑ended questions like “What’s your go‑to comfort food?” and really hear the answers.
• Share something about yourself: Balance curiosity about them with a few personal anecdotes to keep the flow natural.
• Mind your manners: Small gestures like pulling out a chair and saying “please” and “thank you” go a long way.
• Have a backup plan: If your chosen spot is full, know a nearby cafe or dessert bar to pivot smoothly.

Don’ts

• Don’t scroll your phone: Keep it tucked away. Nothing kills the mood like constant screen-checking.
• Avoid heavy topics: Steer clear of politics, ex‑relationships, or anything too intense on date one.
• Don’t over-order: Stick to one or two shared dishes or drinks. It’s a date, not a food challenge.
• Avoid bragging: Confidence is great but flexing too much wealth or status can feel off-putting.
• Don’t talk only about yourself: A conversation is a two-way street. Make space for mutual sharing.
• Don’t force chemistry: If sparks aren’t flying, keep it friendly and wrap up gracefully.

A stellar first date is less about perfection and more about authenticity, shared moments, and laughter over a good meal (or gelato!). Choose a spot that feels “you” and focus on genuine connection. With these dos, don’ts, and our curated list of Singapore’s best first‑date hangouts, you’re all set to turn those first‑date jitters into easy conversation and real chemistry.