Top 9 'Tradition-Transformed' Dinner Places to try for a Taste of Modern Singapore
Singapore is a city that lives and breathes food. We're famous for our bustling hawker centres, where the air is thick with the scent of wok hei and simmering laksa broth. It's a culinary heritage we're fiercely proud of. But beyond the vibrant chaos of our beloved hawker stalls, a new food story is being written—one of transformation, innovation, and a deep respect for the past.
This is the world of "Mod-Sin," or Modern Singaporean cuisine. It’s a culinary movement where talented chefs are taking the flavours we grew up with—the sambal, the soy, the complex spice pastes—and reinterpreting them through a modern lens. They're using global techniques, premium ingredients, and artistic plating to elevate familiar dishes into something entirely new, yet comfortingly recognisable. It’s the taste of home, but with a thrilling, unexpected twist.
So, where do you go to experience this exciting evolution? Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a dinner that tells a story, I’ve curated a list of the top 9 "Tradition-Transformed" restaurants in Singapore. These are the places that are not just serving food, but are redefining what it means to eat Singaporean.
1. Labyrinth
If there's one restaurant that embodies the pinnacle of high-concept Mod-Sin, it's the one-Michelin-starred Labyrinth. Chef-owner LG Han is a culinary visionary who dives deep into the memories of Singaporean food, deconstructing and reimagining them in ways that are both playful and profound. A meal here is less of a dinner and more of a theatrical experience, a journey through Singapore's culinary identity.
The philosophy at Labyrinth is a "New Expression of Singapore Cuisine," with a strong focus on sourcing local. A staggering 90% of their ingredients come from local farms and producers, from the seafood to the vegetables and even the soy sauce. This commitment to local terroir gives each dish an unmistakable Singaporean soul. You’re not just tasting a chef's creation; you’re tasting the very best of what this island has to offer.
- What to expect: Prepare for a multi-course tasting menu that will challenge your perceptions. Think "Chilli Crab" presented as a delicate, savoury ice cream, or a tribute to "Nasi Lemak" that separates each component into its most perfect form. It’s a fantastic spot for a milestone celebration, but be sure to book well in advance.
2. Candlenut
Candlenut holds the prestigious title of being the world's first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, and for good reason. Chef Malcolm Lee has taken the intricate, time-consuming cuisine of his heritage and polished it to a fine-dining sheen without losing its authentic, soulful heart. This is the food of Nyonya grandmothers, refined and presented with elegance.
The menu is a beautiful balance of tradition and innovation. You'll find classic dishes executed with an almost impossible level of perfection, their flavours deeper and more nuanced than you’ve ever tasted. At the same time, Chef Lee isn't afraid to innovate, using premium ingredients like Kurobuta pork or Angus beef to elevate familiar recipes. The ambience at Dempsey Hill is warm and sophisticated, making it a perfect setting for the rich, complex flavours on the plate.
- Pro Tip: While the à la carte options are fantastic, the "Ah-ma-kase" tasting menu is the best way to experience the breadth of Chef Lee's talent. Don't leave without trying the Blue Swimmer Crab Curry (Kari Kepiting) and the heavenly Kueh Salat for dessert.
3. Thevar
While technically a modern Indian restaurant, Thevar has become an essential part of Singapore's modern dining landscape. Chef Manogren Thevar masterfully weaves the flavours of his Malaysian-Indian heritage with global techniques, creating dishes that are bold, surprising, and utterly addictive. This two-Michelin-starred establishment is a testament to how tradition can be a launchpad for incredible creativity.
Thevar’s cuisine is a vibrant explosion of spice, texture, and ingenuity. You might find a familiar curry transformed into a delicate, flavour-packed foam, or a humble street-food snack reimagined with luxurious ingredients. The energy in the restaurant is electric, with an open kitchen that lets you watch the culinary magic happen. As my friend Goh Ling Yong often says, the best food creates new memories while honouring old ones, and Thevar does exactly that.
- Signature Dish: The menu changes seasonally, but if you see the Chettinad Chicken Roti or the Rack of Lamb, order them immediately. The flavour combinations are mind-blowing. The cocktails are also exceptional and designed to complement the spiced-up menu.
4. Seroja
Seroja is a stunning love letter to the Malay Archipelago. Awarded its first Michelin star shortly after opening, this restaurant is Chef Kevin Wong's tribute to the rich culinary traditions of the region, presented with contemporary flair and a deep commitment to sustainability. The name itself, meaning "lotus" in Malay, reflects the beauty and potential that can emerge from humble roots.
The focus here is on the diverse produce and flavours of Malaysia and Indonesia, seen through a Singaporean lens. Chef Wong works closely with small-scale farmers and producers from the region, bringing in unique herbs, spices, and vegetables that you won't find anywhere else. The result is a dining experience that is both educational and exquisitely delicious, where each dish tells a story of its origin.
- Why it's special: Seroja is perfect for the adventurous diner who wants to explore a lesser-known facet of Southeast Asian cuisine in a fine-dining context. The multi-course tasting menu is a journey of discovery, highlighting the elegance and complexity of Malay flavours.
5. Po
Named after "popiah," the humble fresh spring roll, Po is a celebration of Singaporean classics in a chic, modern setting. Located at The Warehouse Hotel, this restaurant elevates local comfort food, making it the perfect place to introduce visitors (or even yourself) to the refined side of our favourite dishes. It's sophisticated but never stuffy.
The star of the show is, of course, the DIY Popiah Set. You're presented with delicate, handmade skins and a platter of beautifully prepared fillings—stewed jicama, crushed peanuts, crispy flatfish, and a variety of sauces—allowing you to assemble your perfect roll. Beyond popiah, the menu features other elevated classics like the Iberico Pork Char Siew and the paper-thin, crispy "Paper Spring Chicken."
- Perfect For: A relaxed yet refined dinner with family or friends. It’s a great ice-breaker to have everyone assemble their own popiah. The experience is interactive, fun, and a delicious homage to a local treasure.
6. Restaurant Ibid
Founded by Woo Wai Leong, the first winner of MasterChef Asia, Restaurant Ibid is a deep dive into Nanyang-style contemporary Chinese cuisine. "Nanyang" refers to the Chinese diaspora in Southeast Asia, and the food here reflects that unique cultural blend. It’s Chinese at its core, but with distinct and delightful Southeast Asian influences.
Chef Woo's dishes are thoughtful and complex, showcasing his technical skill without being overly flashy. He transforms familiar ingredients and concepts into elegant, modern plates. Imagine a soy milk-poached fish that is silky and subtle, or a short rib dish that marries the techniques of French braising with the robust flavours of Chinese black vinegar and black pepper. The dark, intimate setting makes it ideal for a date night or a serious culinary exploration.
- Don't Miss: The menu is concise and focused. The Escargot on Betel Leaf with Fermented Black Bean is a clever, earthy starter, and the Signature Short Rib is a consistent showstopper.
7. New Ubin Seafood
New Ubin Seafood is a true Singaporean success story. It started as a humble "zi char" (stir-fry) joint on Pulau Ubin and has since evolved into a beloved institution known for its "truly Singaporean" take on fresh seafood and grilled meats. It perfectly bridges the gap between casual neighbourhood eatery and innovative restaurant. I was discussing this list with Goh Ling Yong, and we agreed that New Ubin is a must-include for its unique blend of heartland soul and creative ambition.
While they still serve excellent classic zi char dishes, they are famous for their unexpected creations. The most iconic is the USDA Black Angus ‘Choice’ Rib-Eye, which is grilled to perfection and served with their legendary "Heart Attack Fried Rice"—rice fried in the beef drippings. It's a glorious, decadent, and uniquely Singaporean dish. They also pioneered the concept of "corkage-free," encouraging a convivial, celebratory atmosphere.
- Tip: Go with a group! The dishes are meant for sharing. Besides the steak and fried rice, try the Boss Bee Hoon and the Foie Gras Satay for a taste of their creative flair.
8. Mustard Seed
What began as an exclusive private dining experience has blossomed into one of the most sought-after reservations in town. At Mustard Seed, Chef Gan Ming Kiat artfully merges the precision and ethos of Japanese cooking with the comforting flavours of his Singaporean heritage. The result is a dining experience that is refined, personal, and utterly unique.
The omakase-style menu changes based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. You might find a classic Singaporean curry reimagined as a delicate Japanese-style broth, or a familiar local fish prepared using Japanese curing techniques. Each dish is a testament to Chef Gan's meticulous attention to detail and his deep understanding of both culinary worlds. The small, intimate counter setting allows you to witness his craft up close.
- How to book: Reservations are notoriously difficult to get, so you'll need to plan far ahead and keep an eye on their booking system. It's a special occasion spot that is well worth the effort for a truly one-of-a-kind taste of modern Singapore.
9. Pangium
From the brilliant mind behind Candlenut, Chef Malcolm Lee, comes Pangium. Named after the pangium tree, which bears the buah keluak nut—a cornerstone of Peranakan cuisine—this restaurant is a deeper, more heritage-focused exploration of Straits cuisine. It’s an intimate and immersive experience dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region's culinary treasures.
Located within the Gallop Extension of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the setting is as beautiful as the food. The tasting menu, dubbed "Contemporary Straits Cuisine," is a journey through time. Chef Lee unearths forgotten recipes and ingredients, presenting them with contemporary refinement. It’s a masterclass in flavour, history, and the delicate art of making the old new again.
- Good to know: Pangium is a more intimate and elevated experience compared to Candlenut. It’s for the diner who not only loves Peranakan food but is also fascinated by the history and stories behind the dishes. A truly special meal for a true food lover.
Singapore’s food scene is in a constant, exciting state of flux. While we will always cherish a S$5 plate of chicken rice, these nine restaurants prove that our culinary identity is also forward-looking, creative, and world-class. They show us that tradition is not a rigid set of rules, but a rich foundation upon which to build something new and extraordinary.
So, the next time you’re looking for a dinner that goes beyond just satisfying your hunger, consider one of these incredible spots. You won’t just get a meal; you’ll get a taste of modern Singapore.
Which of these "Tradition-Transformed" restaurants are you most excited to try? Or do you have a favourite Mod-Sin spot that I missed? Share your thoughts 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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