New restaurants and cafes in December 2021
We Singaporeans love our food, and despite the many new restaurants and cafes constantly popping up each month, we never seem to get enough. From affordable, pet-friendly cafes to atas restaurants for date night, here are 20 new cafes and restaurants to check out this month before ringing in the new year.
1. FOUND Café – Korean-style cafe at The Editor’s Market
Image credit: @jazpiper
If you’re seeking some Seoul vibes without having to step out of Singapore, head to FOUND Cafe, which is akin to trendy minimalist cafes one can find in South Korea. The cafe is located within The Editor’s Market’s new flagship store in Takashimaya, making it perfect for a midday coffee break after all that Christmas shopping.
Image credit: @hercafestory
Price: $
Must-try: Matcha Layered Cake ($8), Earl Grey Lavender Loaf ($5.50) and Sparkling Matcha ($7)
Address: 391 Orchard Road, #B1-16 to 24, Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872
Opening hours: 10AM-9.30PM, Daily
2. Xi Man – New unagi restaurant in Dhoby Ghaut
Image credit: Eatbook
Using only air-flown eel from Japan, Xi Man is where one can expect fresh, authentic rice bowls to satisfy their unagi cravings. Those who want to go all-out can opt for their XL-sized Unagi Bowl ($158) that serves up to four people.
Half Grilled Eel and Rice for those who’d prefer a personal portion
Image credit: Eatbook
Zhng up your rice bowls with a selection of three dipping sauces: original, sweet and spicy. Although Xi Man’s full menu isn’t available just yet, you can still enjoy other unagi dishes like Grilled Eel Wrapped in Rolled Omelette ($24) and Savoury Steamed Egg Custard with Grilled Eel ($10).
Price: $$
Must-try: Half Grilled Eel and Rice ($40)
Address: 9 Penang Road, #01-02, Singapore 238459
Opening hours: 11.30AM-2.30PM, 6PM-10PM, Daily
3. Coexist Coffee Co. Keong Saik – Cafe with “day and night” concept
Image credit: @coexistcoffee.co
You might have heard about Coexist Coffee Co. in Hillview, known for its hidden location in an industrial building and photogenic interior. The cafe now has a second outlet in Keong Saik that’s equally as pretty. Interestingly, this outlet has a “day and night” concept, where the menu changes based on the time of the day.
Image credit: @coexistcoffee.co
A cafe by day and bar by night, customers can choose from grain bowls and toasts when popping by for brunch or light bar snacks and cocktails in the evening.
Price: $
Must-try: Hummus Toast ($10), Cajun Spiced Halibut Grain Bowl ($13), White Coffee ($5.50)
Address: 1 Keong Saik Road, #01-02, Singapore 089109
Opening hours: 8.30AM-6PM, Daily (Till further notice)
4. Flourish Bakehouse – Pet-friendly cafe among colonial buildings
Picnic mats will be provided for customers
Image credit: @thegatedreverb
For the travellers missing Aussie’s laid-back vibes, Flourish Bakehouse might just do the trick. Tucked away in Phoenix Park amongst former colonial buildings is this quiet dog-friendly cafe, which allows picnics on their lawn alongside indoor and alfresco dining options.
Image credit: @rachroasts
Price: $
Must-try: Raspberry Pistachio Friand ($5.50), Piccolo Latte ($4.50)
Address: 318 Tanglin Road, Phoenix Park Block A, Singapore 247979
Opening hours: 8AM-2PM, Daily
5. Marguerite – Restaurant by Michelin-starred chef
Image credit: @you_got_the_picture
Marguerite’s the answer if you’re looking for an atas restaurant to celebrate Christmas or upcoming special occasions. The restaurant is opened by Chef Michael Wilson – who has a Michelin star to his name – and is located in the Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay.
Image credit: @you_got_the_picture
Enjoy an interesting selection of contemporary dishes on Margeurite’s Tasting Menus ($228++ for seven courses) like Foie Gras Cornetto and Tropical Fruit Vacherin.
Price: $$$
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Flower Dome, #01-09, Singapore 018953
Opening hours: Wed – Sun 6PM-10PM, (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
6. Abseil Coffee – Cosy coffee house in the CBD
Image credit: @adibeevince
Abseil Coffee is a quaint five-table cafe in the middle of the bustling CBD. Boasting a variety of coffee beans from Guji, Ethiopia and Huila, Colombia and Taiwan, select your preferred flavours depending on how fruity or nutty you like your coffee.
As the cafe has limited seating, visit during the off-peak hours or opt for takeaway.
Image credit: @marisaxxsnaps
Having opened only in late November, their menu isn’t the most extensive just yet – but the cafe still makes a welcoming spot for an afternoon pick me up.
Price: $
Must-try: Matcha Dacquoise ($7), White Coffee ($5.50)
Address: 70 Shenton Way, Eon Shenton, Singapore 079118
Opening hours: 10AM-6PM, Daily
7. Boon Cafe – Brunch fare below $10
Image credit: @booncafe.sg
Serving up humble brunch fare, bakes and drinks, Boon Cafe keeps their prices low, with everything on the menu under $10. Located in ITE College Central, the cafe is open to students and the public alike.
Sweet All Day Breakfast ($5)
Image credit: @eating_mpire
The cafe has a range of classic Western and Asian menu items, with dishes like Curry Chicken with Country Loaf ($6) to Chicken Chop with Brown Sauce ($6).
Price: $
Must-try: Matcha Bomboloni Donuts ($3.50), Cream Cheese Garlic Bread ($3), Sweets All Day Breakfast ($5)
Address: 2 Ang Mo Kio Drive, ITE College Central Blk F, #02-11/12 , Singapore 567720
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 8AM-5PM | Sat 8AM-2PM
8. Safiya by Shangri-La – Hearty Middle Eastern food
The dishes are crafted by Chef Ara who hails from Beirut, based on his own family recipes.
Image credit: @shangrilasg
The newest addition to Shangri-La Hotel, Safiya by Shangri-La offers authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Expect meaty delights like Lamb Kebab and Shekaf Lahme – charcoal grilled Angus Wagyu beef cubes marinated with spices – and desserts like Baklava and Meghli, a rice pudding with coconut and mixed nuts.
It currently operates only on a takeaway and delivery basis so make sure you order ahead of time if you’d like a Middle Eastern feast for gatherings at home.
Price: $$
Must-try: Meghli ($9.63), Shish Tawook ($21.40)
Address: 22 Orange Grove Road, Shangri-La Singapore, Singapore 258350
Opening hours: Wed – Sun, 12PM-2.30PM, 6PM-9PM (Closed on Monday & Tuesday)
9. Haven Coffee – Opened by ex-%Arabica Coffee trainer
The cafe’s sleek interior is an IG shot waiting to happen
Image credit: @alvixjiajun
Adding to the multitude of cafes located at Tanjong Pagar is the newest kid on the block, Haven Coffee, opened by one of the folks from the popular %Arabica Coffee.
Image credit: @havencoffeesg
Apart from coffee, which the cafe specialises in, it also offers savoury items like Ham & Cheese Toasties ($14) and sweet treats like Pain Au Chocolat ($4.50) and Citron Meringue ($7.80).
Price: $
Must-try: Scrambled Eggs Croissant ($11), Black Coffee ($5), 70% Dark Cocoa ($6)
Address: 124 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088533
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 8.30AM-5.30PM | Sat – Sun, 8.30AM-6.30PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
10. Whiskdom – Oozy molten lava bakes
Image credit: Eatbook
Once a humble IG-based bakery, Whiskdom now operates as a takeaway kiosk specialising in decadent molten lava-filled bakes.
If you can’t wait to get home before digging in, there are still a couple of seats available in store for you to enjoy the treats right there. Once you’re done, wash it all down with some Iced Black ($5) or Iced Mocha ($7.50).
Image credit: Eatbook
Price: $
Must-try: Matcha Lava ($6.50), Salted Dark Chocolate Brownie ($6.50), Speculoos Delight Brownie ($6.50)
Address: 2 Havelock Road, #01-09, Singapore 059763
Opening hours: Wed – Sat 10AM-5PM | Sun 10AM-2PM (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
11. Charim Korean BBQ – Make your own sushi
Image credit: @iris.nihao
Send your tummies straight to South Korea with some classic K-barbeque at Charim Korean BBQ. Apart from the usual favourites like Black Pork Belly ($28) and Bulgogi ($24), the restaurant also serves DIY Sushi Rice ($5) with a homemade special sauce, where diners can switch up from making lettuce wraps to enjoying the barbequed meats in sushi form.
Image credit: @charimsg
Price: $$
Must-try: DIY Sushi Rice ($5), Kimchi Fried Rice ($16), Charim Chicken ($38)
Address: 65 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088486
Opening hours: 11.30AM-12AM, Daily
12. Guerilla Coffee – Mint-infused coffee drinks
Image credit: @doggaebi
Adventurous coffee drinkers might want to check out Guerilla Coffee, which uses in-house mint plants to concoct refreshing mint-based coffees – must-gets if it’s your first time visiting.
If mint isn’t your thing, Guerilla Coffee also has classic Lattes ($6) and Americanos ($5) along with small bites like mini danishes and muffins. It’s also got a nice open concept, with counter and staircase seats available.
Price: $$
Must-try: Mint Mocha ($7.20), Iced Black Mint ($7)
Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, Suntec City Tower 2, #01-506/507, Singapore 038989
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 8.30AM-7PM | Sat – Sun 9.30AM-7PM
13. Pi Food – Modern HK-style cafe-cum-bar
Image credit: @pifood.sg
Pi Food isn’t your typical cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe), with its funky neon deco giving it a fun modern feel. Despite this, you’ll still be treated to the HK classics like Satay Beef Noodles with Ham and Scrambled Egg ($13.80) and HK Style Milk Tea ($3.80-$4.80).
Image credit: Pi Food
For a real treat, try the Iberico Pork Char Siew & Scrambled Egg Rice with Homemade XO Sauce ($16.80). Expect thick, silky scrambled eggs and sweet, smoky char siew with each bite, topped off with some sweet and spicy XO sauce.
Price: $$
Must-try: Stir Fried Beef Noodles ($13.80), Iberico Pork Char Siew & Scrambled Egg Rice with Homemade XO Sauce ($16.80), HK Style Milk Tea and Yuan Yang ($3.80-$4.80)
Address: 9 Penang Road, Park Mall, #01-18, Singapore 238459
Opening hours: 11AM-10PM, Daily
14. Don’t Yell At Me – BBT chain with over 300 outlets worldwide
Fun fact: Don’t Yell At Me was co-opened by Taiwanese singer Yako Chan.
Don’t Yell At Me is Singapore’s newest BBT shop that has over 300 outlets worldwide in locations like Taiwan and JB. It’s also got an extensive menu featuring creative BBTs that steer away from the usual milk tea with pearls.
Featuring both tea and coffee-based drinks as well as small bites like French Butter Almond Cake ($5.90) and Ruby Chocolate Chip Cookie ($3), Don’t Yell At Me might just change the bubble tea game for you. Specialising in “layered” drinks, the menu has a tonne of interesting flavours as well as toppings like Honey Jade and Sweet Potato & Taro pearls.
Price: $$
Must-try: Osmanthus Thé Au Lait ($6.60), Cherry Blossom Thé Au Lait ($7.50), Winter Melon Chrysanthemum Tea With Sweet Potato and Taro Pearls ($5.60)
Address: 181 Orchard Road, Orchard Central, #02-24/12A, Singapore 238896
Opening hours: 11AM-10PM, Daily
15. Terra Madre – Healthy brunch fare with sustainably-sourced ingredients
Organic Spatchcock Chicken ($28)
Image credit: @terramadresg
Terra Madre is a natural food restaurant that steers away from artificial or synthetic ingredients, serving up a medley of Western and Asian-inspired dishes. It’s open for breakfast and lunch, and customers can expect dishes like Calabaza Squash Mousse Cake ($15) made with cream cheese pumpkin mousse and spiced ginger meringue, and Nduja & Spinach Omelette ($25) topped with smoked paprika oil.
Terra Madre also works directly with local food producers to ensure all ingredients are sustainably sourced, aiming to make healthy food more accessible in Singapore. The restaurant is located in LOEWEN By Dempsey Hill, meaning you can have a post-meal organic grocery run.
Price: $$
Must-try: Grilled Sweet Potato ($25), Calabaza Squash Mousse Cake ($15)
Address: 71 Loewen Road, #01-02, Singapore 248847
Opening hours: 8AM-10PM, Daily
16. Pure Imagination – Live chocolate-making
Image credit: @doggaebi
If a trip to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory has always been in the books for you, head to Pure Imagination by pastry chef Janice Wong to try her chocolate degustation menu ($40). You’ll get a chance to learn and observe how chocolate is made and even sample the pulp of raw cocoa pods, freshly grounded cocoa nibs and cocoa liquor.
Image credit: @heythere.ch
Apart from hosting workshops, the space is also a fully functional cafe offering chocolate-based drinks, desserts and brunch. You can also still take a peek into the live chocolate making facility on the cafe’s premises without having to dine at the cafe.
Price: $$
Must-try: 70% Colombia Single Origin Dark Chocolate Drink ($9), Single Origin 70% Colombia Chocolate Mousse Cake ($9)
Address: 1 Kim Seng Promenade, Great World, #B1-K119, Singapore 237994
Opening hours: 10AM-10PM, Daily
17. Claudine Restaurant – Home-cooked French meals for date nights
Image credit: @chef_julien
Serving up rustic French cuisine, Claudine Restaurant is a blend between atas dining and comforting home-cooked meals.
Image credit: @every.cookandcranny
Claudine mainly features sharing plates for a more social dining experience, which enhances the “at home” vibe the chef – Julien Royer of French-Asian fusion restaurant Odette – strives for. Choose from dishes like Pariterole, an invention by Claudine which features a combination of the Paris-Brest and profiterole, Claudine Bouillabaisse, Charred Leeks and Baked Alaska.
With a slightly higher price point, bookmark Claudine for when you’re willing to splurge a little, like on future date nights or anniversary meals.
Price: $$$
Must-try: Claudine Bouillabaisse and Charred Leeks
Address: 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541
Opening hours: Tue – Sun, 11.30AM-2PM, 6PM-9.30PM
18. The Whole Kitchen Bakery Cafe CBD – Gluten-free bakes
Image credit: @the_wholekitchen
Eating clean isn’t that easy, but with cafes like The Whole Kitchen Bakery Cafe CBD which serves up freshly baked, gluten-free food, things are a lot less of a hassle. Their menu is specially curated by an in-house health coach too, so rest assured that you’ll be putting the only good stuff into your body.
Image credit: The Whole Kitchen
Price: $$
Must-try: Avo Egg Sourdough ($18), Wild Berry Bliss Smoothie ($14)
Address: 120 Robinson Road, #01-01, Singapore 068913
Opening hours: Mon – Fri, 7.30AM-4PM
19. Leckerbaer Keong Saik – Danish desserts and snacks
Image credit: @leckerbaer.sg
Leckerbaer’s newest outlet at Keong Saik, which opened its doors just last month, is a cosy space to enjoy afternoon treats and drinks. It also features a new exclusive item on the menu: open-faced sandwiches (from $20).
Image credit: @leckerbaer.sg
Enjoy a Scandi-style high tea with Danish cookies, or Småkager ($2.80), along with some coffee or homemade lemonade (from $4.50).
Price: $-$$
Must-try: Crab & Avocado Salsa Open-Faced Sandwich ($20), Vanilla Småkager ($2.80)
Address: 14 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089121
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, 10AM-10PM | Fri – Sat, 12PM-11.30PM | Sun 12PM-10PM
20. O’bok Dabang – Korean cafe at SMU that opens till late
O’bok Dabang is a new Korean cafe in SMU that opens till 12.30AM daily – perfect for the night owls and students pulling all-nighters on campus. The eatery offers both classic and trendy dishes like Tteok Ramen ($6.50), Fried Chicken ($7.80) and Croffles ($4.50) at affordable prices.
Apple Cinnamon Croffles
Image credit: @fattybagel
Their Croffles – or croissant waffles – come in a variety of flavours like Ang Butter (red bean), Basil Pesto and Lotus. They also offer Iced Einspänner Coffee, which is exceptionally popular at cafes in Korea. For the unfamiliar, this drink is a hot espresso topped with a generous amount of whipped cream and cocoa powder.
Price: $
Must-try: Iced Vanilla Latte ($5.80), Iced Einspänner Coffee ($6) and Ang Butter Croffle ($4.50)
Address: 70 Stamford Road, #01-22A Li Ka Shing Library SMU, Singapore 178901
Opening hours: Mon – Sat, 10.30AM-12.30AM, (Closed on Sunday)
New restaurants to check out in December
Whether you’re planning a festive dinner out or a cafe-hopping trip with a friend, there are plenty of eateries to end off the year with a good meal at. Plus, it’s been a long year for most of us, so go get that treat you deserve.
If you’re still hungry for more food recommendations, check out our other monthly guides:
- Festive things to do in December 2021
- Best monthly deals in December 2021
- November 2021’s new restaurants
Cover image adapted from: @the_wholekitchen, @venicekeqian, @doggaebi