If you’re a foodie planning a trip to Singapore, you’ll want to make sure to experience the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants. The Michelin Guide, which was first published in France in 1900, is now a global standard for fine dining. Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants are some of the best in the world, offering a range of cuisines and dining experiences.
Since the Michelin Guide’s launch in Singapore in 2016, the city has become a culinary destination, with over 50 Michelin-starred restaurants. The guide awards one to three stars to restaurants based on the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere. One star indicates “a very good restaurant,” two stars mean “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three stars signify “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.”
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious fine-dining experience or a more casual meal, there’s a Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore for everyone. From Japanese to French to Chinese cuisine, the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer a diverse range of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Michelin stars in Singapore, the impact of the Michelin Guide, and some of the city’s most iconic Michelin-starred restaurants.
Key Takeaways
- Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences.
- The Michelin Guide awards one to three stars to restaurants based on the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere.
- From luxurious fine dining to casual meals, there’s a Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore for everyone.
History of Michelin Stars in Singapore
If you’re a foodie, then you’re probably familiar with the Michelin Star rating system. It’s a prestigious honor that’s awarded to restaurants around the world, and Singapore is no exception. In this section, we’ll take a look at the history of Michelin Stars in Singapore, how the guide has evolved over the years, and some of the milestones and achievements that have been made.
Evolution of the Michelin Guide Singapore
The Michelin Guide Singapore was first published in 2016, making it the first Southeast Asian country to have its own Michelin Guide. The guide was launched in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board and was met with a lot of excitement from both locals and tourists alike. The first edition of the guide included 29 restaurants that were awarded Michelin Stars, with Joel Robuchon Restaurant being the only restaurant to receive three stars.
Since then, the guide has continued to evolve and grow. In 2018, the guide introduced the Bib Gourmand category, which recognizes restaurants that offer exceptional food at affordable prices. The Bib Gourmand category has become a popular addition to the guide, with many locals and tourists seeking out these restaurants for their delicious and affordable meals.
Milestones and Achievements
Over the years, the Michelin Guide Singapore has achieved many milestones and recognized many talented chefs and restaurants. In 2019, the guide awarded its first Michelin Star to a hawker stall, Hawker Chan, which is located in Chinatown. This was a significant moment for the guide, as it showed that Michelin Stars were not just reserved for fine dining restaurants.
In 2021, the guide awarded a total of 50 Michelin Stars to 39 restaurants in Singapore. Les Amis, Odette, and Zen were the three restaurants that received three Michelin Stars, the highest honor a restaurant can receive. The guide also recognized 58 restaurants with Bib Gourmand awards, showcasing the diverse range of cuisines available in Singapore.
Overall, the Michelin Guide Singapore has played an important role in the city-state’s culinary scene. It has helped to put Singapore on the map as a food destination and has recognized many talented chefs and restaurants along the way.
Understanding Michelin Star Ratings
If you’re planning to dine in one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore, it’s essential to understand what the Michelin Star ratings mean. The Michelin Guide is a prestigious restaurant guide that awards Michelin stars to restaurants based on various criteria. Here’s what you need to know about Michelin Star ratings.
Criteria for Michelin Star Selection
Michelin Star ratings are awarded based on five criteria: quality of ingredients used, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony of flavors, consistency of food, and the chef’s personality expressed on the plate. Michelin inspectors are anonymous and visit restaurants multiple times to ensure consistency in food quality and service.
Differences Between One, Two, and Three Michelin Stars
Restaurants that receive one Michelin Star are considered very good in their category and offer high-quality cuisine. Two Michelin Stars indicate that the restaurant is excellent and worth a detour, while three Michelin Stars mean that the restaurant is exceptional and worth a special journey.
The Bib Gourmand and Green Star Awards
Apart from the Michelin Star ratings, the Michelin Guide also awards Bib Gourmand and Green Star awards. The Bib Gourmand award recognizes restaurants that offer great food at a reasonable price, while the Green Star award recognizes restaurants that promote sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the Michelin Star ratings are a mark of excellence and a testament to the quality of food and service offered by a restaurant. Understanding the criteria for Michelin Star selection and the differences between one, two, and three Michelin Stars can help you choose the right restaurant for your dining experience. Keep in mind that the Bib Gourmand and Green Star awards are also valuable indicators of a restaurant’s quality and ethos.
Singapore’s Michelin Star Restaurants
If you’re a foodie, Singapore is a must-visit destination. The city-state is home to some of the world’s most celebrated Michelin-starred establishments, offering an exciting culinary adventure that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Celebrated Michelin Starred Establishments
Les Amis is one of Singapore’s most celebrated Michelin-starred establishments, known for its exquisite French cuisine. The restaurant has maintained its three Michelin stars for several years, a testament to the quality of its food and service.
Odette is another highly acclaimed restaurant in Singapore that has earned three Michelin stars. The restaurant, which serves contemporary French cuisine, is located in the iconic National Gallery Singapore and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Burnt Ends is a popular Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up delicious modern Australian barbecue cuisine. The restaurant’s open kitchen and casual atmosphere make it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
New Entrants in the Latest Edition
The latest edition of the Michelin Guide Singapore has brought some exciting new entrants to the city’s culinary scene. Five restaurants have been newly awarded one Michelin star, bringing the total number of Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore to 55. One of the new entrants is the first restaurant in Singapore to receive a Michelin Green Star, which recognizes its sustainable practices.
Diversity of Cuisines and Culinary Styles
One of the things that makes Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants so exciting is the diversity of cuisines and culinary styles on offer. From French and Italian to Japanese and Chinese, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining or prefer a more casual atmosphere, you’re sure to find a Michelin-starred restaurant that suits your tastes.
In conclusion, Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants are a food lover’s paradise. With a range of cuisines and culinary styles on offer, you’re sure to have an exciting culinary adventure that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Culinary Icons and Chef Profiles
Award-Winning Chefs and Their Philosophy
Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants are home to some of the most talented chefs in the world. These culinary icons have been awarded Michelin stars for their exceptional skills in the kitchen. They have created a unique cuisine that blends traditional Singaporean flavors with modern techniques and ingredients.
One such chef is Kevin Wong, winner of the Michelin Guide Young Chef Award. Wong is known for his innovative use of local ingredients and his commitment to sustainability. He believes that cooking is an art form that requires passion, creativity, and attention to detail. His dishes are not only delicious but also visually stunning, reflecting his artistic approach to cooking.
Another renowned chef is Emmanuel Stroobant, who runs Saint Pierre, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore. Stroobant is a master of French cuisine and has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens. He believes that the key to success in the culinary world is to stay true to your roots while constantly innovating and experimenting with new flavors and techniques.
Rising Stars and Young Chef Award
Singapore’s culinary scene is also home to a new generation of rising stars, many of whom have been recognized with the Michelin Guide Young Chef Award. These young chefs are bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the kitchen.
One such rising star is Chef Kevin Wong, who won the Michelin Guide Young Chef Award in 2019. Wong’s culinary philosophy is based on sustainability and a commitment to using local ingredients. He believes in creating dishes that are not only delicious but also environmentally responsible.
Another young chef to watch is Mark Tai, who runs the one-Michelin-starred Cloudstreet restaurant. Tai is known for his playful approach to cooking and his innovative use of ingredients. He believes that cooking should be fun and that every dish should tell a story.
In conclusion, Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants are home to some of the most talented chefs in the world. From culinary icons like Emmanuel Stroobant to rising stars like Kevin Wong and Mark Tai, these chefs are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the kitchen. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone who appreciates good food, Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants are a must-visit destination.
Exploring the Dining Experience
Singapore is home to a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants that offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience. From the ambiance and service excellence to the signature dishes and innovative cooking techniques, every aspect of the meal is carefully crafted to provide you with an exceptional dining experience.
Ambiance and Service Excellence
The ambiance of Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore is nothing short of spectacular. As soon as you step inside, you are transported to a world of luxury and elegance. The interiors are meticulously designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that complements the meal. The service is also top-notch, with attentive staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and can guide you through your meal.
Signature Dishes and Unique Flavours
The Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore are known for their signature dishes and unique flavours. Whether you are in the mood for caviar, sushi, or an omakase meal, you will find something that suits your taste buds. The chefs use only the freshest and highest quality ingredients to create dishes that are bursting with flavour. Each dish is a work of art, with intricate presentation that is almost too beautiful to eat.
Innovative Cooking Techniques and Presentation
The chefs at Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore are known for their innovative cooking techniques and presentation. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the kitchen, using new and exciting techniques to create dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning. From molecular gastronomy to sous-vide cooking, the chefs use a variety of techniques to create dishes that are truly unique.
In conclusion, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore is an experience like no other. The ambiance, service, signature dishes, unique flavours, and innovative cooking techniques all come together to create a meal that is unforgettable. Whether you are a foodie or just looking for a special night out, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore is the perfect choice.
The Impact of Michelin Stars
If you are a foodie, you know that Michelin stars are the ultimate accolade for any restaurant. The Michelin Guide has been awarding stars to restaurants since 1926, and today, it remains one of the most coveted awards in the culinary world. In Singapore, the Michelin Guide has been awarding stars since 2016, and the impact has been significant.
On Singapore’s Culinary Scene
Singapore is known for its diverse culinary scene, with influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western cuisines. The Michelin Guide has helped to shine a spotlight on this vibrant food culture, and has put Singapore on the map as a culinary destination. The guide has also encouraged restaurants to strive for excellence, and has raised the bar for the entire industry.
On Restaurants and Chefs
For restaurants and chefs, a Michelin star can be a game-changer. It can bring in more customers, boost revenue, and elevate the status of the restaurant. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Michelin-starred restaurants must maintain a high level of consistency to keep their stars, and this can be a challenge for chefs and restaurant owners. The pressure to maintain the quality of the food, service, and ambiance can be intense, but for those who succeed, the rewards are immense.
The Michelin Guide has also helped to create a community of winners. Chefs and restaurant owners who have been awarded stars can connect with each other, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. This sense of camaraderie can be a source of inspiration and motivation for chefs and restaurant owners who are striving to achieve their own Michelin stars.
In conclusion, the impact of Michelin stars on Singapore’s culinary scene has been significant. The guide has helped to raise the bar for the entire industry, and has put Singapore on the map as a culinary destination. For restaurants and chefs, a Michelin star can be a game-changer, but it also comes with great responsibility. The pressure to maintain consistency can be intense, but for those who succeed, the rewards are immense.
Beyond the Stars: Hawker Stalls and Street Food
Singapore is one of the top culinary destinations in the world, and it’s not just because of its Michelin-starred restaurants. The city-state is also known for its vibrant street food scene, with hawker stalls serving up delicious and affordable dishes that are a must-try for any foodie.
Michelin-Recognized Hawker Stalls
While the Michelin Guide is known for recognizing high-end restaurants, it has also started to recognize hawker stalls and street food vendors in recent years. In Singapore, two hawker stalls have earned Michelin stars: Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle and Hawker Chan.
Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle is known for its bak chor mee, a dish of noodles with minced pork, pork slices, and mushrooms in a vinegar-based sauce. The stall has been around for over 80 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Hawker Chan, on the other hand, is known for its soya sauce chicken rice, a simple but delicious dish of tender chicken in a savory sauce served with rice. The stall has since expanded to multiple locations in Singapore and even overseas.
The Influence of Street Food on Fine Dining
Singapore’s street food culture has also influenced the city’s fine dining scene. Many of the city’s top chefs have drawn inspiration from hawker stalls and street food vendors, incorporating traditional flavors and techniques into their dishes.
For example, chef Malcolm Lee of Candlenut, the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, has said that he draws inspiration from his grandmother’s home-cooked meals and the flavors of Singapore’s hawker stalls. His dishes, such as the buah keluak fried rice and the beef rendang, are modern takes on traditional Peranakan cuisine.
Overall, Singapore’s street food scene is a must-visit for any foodie. Whether you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal or a Michelin-starred experience, the city’s hawker stalls and street food vendors have something for everyone.
Sustainability and Local Produce
If you are a foodie who is passionate about sustainable dining and local produce, then Singapore is the perfect destination for you. Michelin’s focus on sustainable dining has resulted in the recognition of one new restaurant with the Michelin Green Star in the 2023 selection.
Michelin’s Focus on Sustainable Dining
Michelin’s Green Star rating is awarded to restaurants that are committed to sustainable dining practices. The Michelin Guide Singapore 2023 has recognized the efforts of one new restaurant that has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability. This recognition highlights the importance of sustainable dining practices in Singapore’s food scene.
Showcasing Local Ingredients and Dishes
Singapore’s food scene is known for its diverse cuisine that showcases local ingredients and dishes. Many Michelin-starred restaurants in Singapore have incorporated local produce into their menus, making them a great choice for foodies who want to experience the local cuisine.
Restaurants like 1-Arden, which houses several F&B concepts like Latin European bistro Sol & Luna, Japanese restaurant Oumi and Kaarla, which serves up Australian fare, are committed to using locally sourced ingredients. By using local produce, these restaurants are not only supporting the local community but also reducing their carbon footprint.
In conclusion, Michelin’s focus on sustainable dining and the use of local produce has made Singapore a destination for foodies who are passionate about sustainable dining practices. The recognition of one new restaurant with the Michelin Green Star in the 2023 selection highlights the importance of sustainable dining practices in Singapore’s food scene.
Planning Your Michelin Star Experience
Excited to explore the Michelin star restaurants in Singapore? Here’s a guide to help you plan your unforgettable dining experience.
A Guide to Reservations and Dining Etiquette
Before heading to a Michelin star restaurant, make sure to book a reservation in advance. With their popularity, these restaurants can fill up quickly, and you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to indulge in their exquisite cuisine. You can book your table online or call the restaurant directly to make a reservation.
When it comes to dining etiquette, remember to dress appropriately. Most Michelin star restaurants in Singapore have a smart casual dress code, so avoid wearing shorts, flip flops, or athletic wear. Also, be punctual and arrive on time for your reservation. If you’re running late, make sure to inform the restaurant in advance.
Pairing Your Meal with the Perfect Drink
Pairing your meal with the perfect drink can elevate your dining experience. Most Michelin star restaurants in Singapore offer an extensive wine list, but don’t be afraid to try something new like sake. Sake, a Japanese rice wine, has become increasingly popular among diners and can complement the flavors of your meal perfectly.
If you’re not a wine or sake drinker, you can opt for cocktails or mocktails. Some Michelin star restaurants in Singapore offer unique and creative drink options that can enhance your dining experience.
Overall, planning your Michelin star experience in Singapore can be a memorable and exciting adventure. Just remember to make your reservation in advance, dress appropriately, and pair your meal with the perfect drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the latest count of Michelin star restaurants lighting up Singapore’s culinary scene?
As of 2023, Singapore boasts a total of 29 Michelin-starred restaurants, including 22 one-star, six two-star, and one three-star establishment. The list is constantly evolving, with new restaurants being added and some losing their stars.
Which restaurant tops the list as Singapore’s best 3-star Michelin destination?
Les Amis, located at Shaw Centre on Scotts Road, is currently the only restaurant in Singapore to hold the coveted three-star Michelin rating. The restaurant offers contemporary French cuisine and is known for its exceptional wine list.
Has Hawker Chan managed to retain its illustrious Michelin star status in 2023?
Yes, Hawker Chan has managed to retain its Michelin star status in 2023. The humble hawker stall in Chinatown Complex Food Centre is famous for its soy sauce chicken rice and has been awarded a Michelin star since 2016.
Are foodies in Singapore celebrating any new entries to the Michelin star family this year?
Yes, there are a few new entries to the Michelin star family in 2023. Table65, Thevar, and Whitegrass are some of the new one-star restaurants to make it to the list. Terra, a contemporary European restaurant, has been awarded two Michelin stars.
Can I still find that award-winning Michelin star chicken rice in Singapore?
Yes, you can still find that award-winning Michelin star chicken rice at Hawker Chan’s original stall in Chinatown Complex Food Centre. The stall has since expanded to other locations, including Jewel Changi Airport and Smith Street in Chinatown.
What’s the buzz about Singapore’s Michelin Bib Gourmand selections for local delights?
The Michelin Bib Gourmand selections are awarded to restaurants that offer good value for money and serve quality food. In Singapore, there are 58 Bib Gourmand restaurants, including hawker stalls and restaurants that serve local delights such as laksa, nasi lemak, and char kway teow. These places are often crowded with locals and tourists alike, and are definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to sample some of Singapore’s best food.