Top 10 'Rooftop-Retreat' Dinner Places to order in Singapore for Sky-High City Views - Goh Ling Yong
Singapore is a city that never fails to impress. By day, it's a bustling metropolis of gleaming skyscrapers and lush greenery. But as dusk settles, it transforms into a dazzling tapestry of lights, a futuristic wonderland best appreciated from above. While a delicious meal is always a treat, a delicious meal paired with a breathtaking, sky-high view of this city is an experience that borders on magical. It’s a sensory feast that elevates a simple dinner into a cherished memory.
Finding the perfect spot, however, can be a challenge. You’re not just looking for great food; you’re searching for that perfect alchemy of ambiance, culinary excellence, and a view that makes you pause, mid-sentence, just to soak it all in. This is about finding your personal ‘Rooftop-Retreat,’ a place to escape the street-level hustle and connect with the city on a whole new level, whether for a romantic date, a special celebration, or simply to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
That's why I've curated this list for you. Think of it as your personal guide to the city's most spectacular dining perches. From the iconic heights of Marina Bay Sands to chic, hidden gems nestled atop heritage buildings, here are the top 10 rooftop dinner spots in Singapore that promise an unforgettable evening with a side of stunning city views.
1. CÉ LA VI Singapore
Perched atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, CÉ LA VI is arguably the most famous rooftop destination in Singapore, and for good reason. The 360-degree panoramic view from 57 floors up is simply unparalleled. You get an unobstructed vista of the entire Marina Bay, the glittering Central Business District (CBD) skyline, the lush Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Strait stretching out to the horizon. It's the postcard-perfect view you came to Singapore to see.
The menu is a sophisticated journey through Contemporary Asian cuisine, featuring exquisite ingredients and innovative flavour combinations. Expect meticulously crafted sushi, premium grilled meats, and seafood that is as fresh as the breeze at this altitude. The vibe is unapologetically glamorous and energetic. It’s a place to see and be seen, with a soundtrack of chic lounge music that perfectly complements the sparkling city lights.
Pro-Tip: Book a table at the restaurant for around 6:30 PM to catch the spectacular sunset transition. Afterwards, move to the SkyBar for a post-dinner cocktail. Reservations are essential, and be sure to request a table along the edge for the most breathtaking, front-row experience of the city.
2. Lavo Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
Also located at Marina Bay Sands, Lavo offers a different but equally stunning rooftop experience. While CÉ LA VI is about Asian fusion and a club-like energy, Lavo brings a vibrant slice of Italian-American flair to the sky. The ambiance is luxurious yet lively, with a grand indoor dining room that opens onto a sweeping outdoor terrace and bar. The view here focuses beautifully on the CBD skyline, offering a mesmerising perspective of the city's architectural marvels.
The food is hearty, indulgent, and perfect for sharing. Their signature dish, "The Meatball," a one-pound behemoth of Wagyu, veal, and Italian sausage, is a must-try. The pastas are rich, the pizzas are classic, and you absolutely cannot leave without trying the 20-Layer Chocolate Cake. It’s a dining concept they call "vibe-dining," where the music gradually gets louder as the night progresses, turning a sophisticated dinner into a sky-high party.
Pro-Tip: Lavo is famous for its weekend Champagne brunches, which offer a fantastic daytime rooftop experience. For dinner, secure a spot on the outdoor terrace to feel the city's pulse and get the best photos against the glittering skyline.
3. SKAI
If you're looking for sheer height, SKAI delivers. Situated on the 70th floor of Swissôtel The Stamford, it is one of the highest dining establishments in Singapore. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a jaw-dropping, eagle-eye view that stretches from the Civic District and Marina Bay all the way to the Padang and the Singapore Flyer. The minimalist, contemporary decor ensures that nothing distracts from the main event: the incredible vista.
SKAI operates as a contemporary grill, focusing on prime cuts of beef and fresh, sustainable seafood prepared with a delicate Japanese touch. The culinary execution is precise and elegant, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated business dinner or a very special romantic occasion. The altitude lends a serene, almost surreal quality to the dining experience, making you feel completely detached from the city below.
Pro-Tip: Their set lunches offer exceptional value for the quality of food and the million-dollar view. For dinner, try to book a window-seat table in advance and consider their wine pairing menu to elevate the experience further.
4. Mr. Stork
For a rooftop experience that’s more whimsical and romantic, Mr. Stork is the perfect escape. Located on the 39th floor of the Andaz Singapore hotel, this rooftop bar offers a unique, garden-like setting. Instead of traditional tables, the main draw here are the ten dreamy, teepee-hut-style daybeds nestled amidst lush greenery. It feels less like a bar and more like a secret garden in the sky.
The 360-degree view from the Bugis area provides a different perspective of the city, encompassing the CBD, Kampong Glam's historic shophouses, and the sea. While it's more of a bar than a full-fledged restaurant, they offer a delicious menu of bar bites and snacks that are perfect for a light, casual dinner. The real stars are the creative cocktails, often featuring tropical and botanical notes.
Pro-Tip: The teepee huts are incredibly popular and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to snag one. It's the ultimate spot for a memorable date night or a relaxed evening with friends, watching the city lights twinkle from your private little nest.
5. VUE
As its name suggests, VUE is all about the view. Situated atop OUE Bayfront, it boasts a prime, direct-facing view of the Marina Bay Sands complex and the surrounding skyline. This vantage point is truly spectacular, offering a cinematic panorama that feels both grand and intimate. The restaurant features a stylish indoor dining area and an alfresco spritz bar, which is the perfect place for a pre-dinner aperitif.
The culinary focus here is on binchōtan-grilled specialties, with a strong emphasis on prime cuts of meat and seasonal seafood. The flavours are robust and expertly crafted, making for a deeply satisfying meal. VUE exudes a polished and sophisticated vibe, attracting a well-heeled crowd. As a food enthusiast, I, Goh Ling Yong, find VUE's combination of a knockout view and serious culinary ambition to be a winning formula for a special night out.
Pro-Tip: Start your evening at the spritz bar during sunset. It’s one of the best spots in the city to watch Marina Bay Sands light up for the night. When making your reservation, specifically request a table by the window for an uninterrupted visual feast.
6. LeVel33
Imagine sipping on a freshly brewed craft beer while gazing out at one of the world's most famous skylines. That's the unique proposition at LeVel33, the world's highest urban microbrewery. Located in the Marina Bay Financial Centre, its terrace offers a stunning, front-and-centre view of the entire Marina Bay waterfront. It's a slightly more relaxed and convivial atmosphere compared to its fine-dining neighbours.
The menu is cleverly designed to incorporate elements of beer and the brewing process, from beer-infused sauces to dishes made with spent grain. The cuisine is best described as contemporary European with a creative twist. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate both good food and great beer, offering a more grounded, approachable take on sky-high dining.
Pro-Tip: Book a table on the outdoor terrace for the full experience. Try their beer tasting paddle to sample the different house-brewed creations, from a light blonde lager to a rich, dark stout. It's a great conversation starter and a fun way to begin your meal.
7. Spago by Wolfgang Puck
The third gem atop Marina Bay Sands on our list, Spago offers a different flavour of rooftop luxury. Overlooking the famous infinity pool and the lush Gardens by the Bay, Spago provides a more relaxed, garden-like ambiance. It feels like a chic poolside escape, a tranquil oasis floating above the city. The vibe is sophisticated yet breezy, capturing the essence of its Californian roots.
The menu, curated by the legendary Wolfgang Puck, is a testament to Californian cuisine, with global influences from Asia and Europe. The dishes are imaginative, flavourful, and beautifully presented, from handmade pastas to pan-seared sea bass. Spago is split into two sections: a fine-dining restaurant and a more casual Terrace Lounge with an alfresco bar, offering options for different moods and occasions.
Pro-Tip: The Terrace Lounge is perfect for a more casual dinner or sunset cocktails with light bites. The view of the infinity pool against the city backdrop is particularly magical in the evening. It’s a great choice if you want the MBS experience without the intensity of CÉ LA VI.
8. Art di Daniele Sperindio
For a dose of culture with your culinary experience, look no further than Art di Daniele Sperindio. Perched atop the National Gallery Singapore, this elegant restaurant offers a majestic view over the historic Civic District, the Padang, and across to Marina Bay. There’s something truly special about dining above a national monument, surrounded by history and architectural beauty.
Helmed by Chef-Owner Daniele Sperindio, the restaurant is a love letter to progressive Italian cuisine. The dining experience is an exploratory journey through Italy's rich culinary traditions, presented with modern artistry and flair. The service is impeccable, and the ambiance is one of refined elegance, making it an exceptional choice for a significant celebration or a truly indulgent meal.
Pro-Tip: Opt for one of the tasting menus to fully experience Chef Daniele's creative vision. The outdoor terrace is a wonderful spot for an aperitivo before your meal, offering a serene moment to take in the historic panorama.
9. Kinki Restaurant + Bar
If you're looking for a rooftop experience with more edge and energy, Kinki is your spot. Located at Customs House, its rooftop bar offers a more intimate but equally stunning view of the Marina Bay waterfront, looking directly at the iconic facade of Marina Bay Sands. The vibe is urban, edgy, and unapologetically cool, with graffiti-covered walls and a soundtrack of hip-hop and R&B from the resident DJ.
The food is modern Japanese with a creative, sometimes rebellious twist. Think unconventional maki rolls, flavour-packed rice bowls, and delicious grilled skewers. It's fun, vibrant, and designed for sharing. Kinki attracts a younger, trendier crowd, making it a fantastic place to kick off a night out or for a lively dinner with friends.
Pro-Tip: Head to the rooftop bar first for a yuzu-infused cocktail and some snacks while you soak in the view and the buzzing atmosphere. The vibe gets progressively more energetic as the night goes on, so it’s perfect for those seeking a dynamic dining experience.
10. Southbridge
Tucked away on the rooftop of a refurbished shophouse on Boat Quay, Southbridge is a hidden gem that offers a stunningly different perspective. It boasts a 360-degree view that looks straight up at the towering skyscrapers of the CBD on one side and down along the picturesque Singapore River and across to Marina Bay on the other. It’s an up-close and personal view that makes you feel like you’re right in the heart of the action.
Southbridge is primarily an oyster bar, serving some of the freshest and most diverse selections in the city. The menu is rounded out with other delicious small plates and sliders, making it perfect for a more casual, tapas-style dinner. The ambiance is chic but relaxed, making it a popular spot for after-work drinks and casual date nights.
Pro-Tip: This is the perfect "golden hour" spot. Arrive just before sunset to watch the boats cruise down the river as the office buildings begin to light up. Pair a platter of fresh oysters with a glass of crisp Champagne for a truly classic and unforgettable rooftop moment.
Your Sky-High Sanctuary Awaits
Singapore’s skyline is more than just a collection of buildings; it’s a dynamic, glittering canvas that tells the story of our city. Experiencing it from a rooftop retreat transforms a meal into an event, an ordinary evening into an extraordinary memory. Each of these ten venues offers a unique key to unlock a different view and a different vibe of our beautiful city.
From the ultimate glamour of Marina Bay Sands to the intimate charm of a Boat Quay shophouse, there is a rooftop dinner experience waiting for you. I hope this guide from the Goh Ling Yong blog helps you find your next sky-high sanctuary.
Now, I’d love to hear from you. What’s your favourite rooftop spot in Singapore? Are there any hidden gems that I missed? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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