达乌拉特酒店 by Hotel Calmo

Embodying the essence of fine dining, this romantic restaurant has it all – wonderful food, service and ambiance, and spectacular views. Chef Westaway makes good use of top-notch British produce and inspirations to turn out modern culinary creations that never fail to impress. A British classic, fish & chips, gets a posh makeover with sour cream, lemon zest and caviar. Even the alcohol-free gin and tonic palate cleanser is impeccably crafted.

Where better to find a priceless jewel of the Singapore dining scene than in The National Gallery? Chef Julien Royer and his highly accomplished kitchen make wonderful use of luxury ingredients of unimpeachable quality. Creative combinations, impeccable techniques and exquisite plating result in dishes that are as elegant as they are memorable. The understated and graceful room, overseen by a highly polished service team, provides the perfect backdrop.

Unlike other branches in the group, this one has a European décor echoing the colonial style of the building that hosts it. That said, the menu remains the same as the others. Apart from the main menu, make sure you check out the chef’s selection menu. Double-boiled soups, flavourful and hearty, are unmissable. Deep-fried spare ribs marinated with shrimp paste are crispy and loaded with umami.

Noodles are cooked-to-order with nicely layered flavours and textures in every bite. Crispy dried plaice, fluffy cracklings, and tender pork liver are all meticulously prepared. Expect to queue any time of the day.

The space is simple yet elegant, befitting the hotel that houses it. There is a 10-seat counter made from a 200-year-old cypress tree from Nara, Japan, plus a private room. Chef-owner Sakuta works closely with the all-Japanese kitchen team, creating a season-driven omakase menu based exclusively on Japanese fish. Even the rice is a blend of two Japanese cultivars in a precise ratio for the perfect texture. Every item is prepared with utmost care.

Biryani is the standout dish in this place specialising in North Indian food. The lamb shank biryani is recommended for its fork-tender texture and meaty flavour. Haleem, mutton nihari and aloo gobi are also good choices.

You can specify the level of spiciness of your food at this three-storey restaurant in Little India, though many come for the Chilli Challenge on full moon nights simply to push their limit. But spiciness isn’t all that this chef has to offer – in fact, he balances it with sweet, sour, salty, bitter and astringent flavours. Choose between table seating downstairs and floor seating upstairs. Parties of two have a number of set menus to choose from.