BINKHALED HOTEL

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.

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.

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.

Chef Sun Kim hails from Korea's Busan and his refined modern cooking combines Korean traditions and bold flavours with minimalist plating. The single tasting menu is dominated by seafood and vegetables, as seen in steamed Jeju abalone with gochujang seaweed risotto – the tender mollusc, creamy rice and crunchy lily bulbs feature contrasting textures. In addition to wine pairing, the non-alcoholic Korean drink flight is also worth trying.

Chef Mano Thevar serves a creative multi-course menu rooted in Indian traditions and crafted with European techniques. Signature dishes such as Chettinad chicken roti or Brittany lobster in curry beurre blanc pack a ton of oomph, while maintaining a fine balance with mindful touches. A vegetarian version is available but needs pre-ordering. The wine list covers 600+ labels; ask about wine, sake and non-alcoholic drink pairings.

Hainanese chicken rice comes with options like roasted or steamed chicken. Sets with rice, soup and vegetables are reasonably priced.

Singaporean food such as oyster omelettes, fried prawn mee and carrot cakes. Fried kway teow with cockles and Chinese sausage are cooked-to-order.