Spending over a decade in a country built on coffee culture reshaped the way I experienced a simple cup. From Slow Boat’s velvety, freeze-distilled dirty matcha at Design Orchard to the thoughtful brews at Corner Corner on Duxton Road, these emerging roaster-led spaces show a city slowly leaning into curiosity and craft. Singapore may not yet mirror the experimental edge of Bangkok, but with every new pop-up, shared space, and meticulous pour, it’s clear that something special is brewing.

Keisuke that exists as an institution with 17 outlets and 14 unique concepts all over Singapore has a lunchtime classic venue at Tras Link, Tanjong Pagar with a classic bowl of tonkotsu base ramen, efficient service and generous portions for a quick lunchtime feast.

Tsukiji Kaisendon is a local gem offering an affordable chirashi and kaisen don options made with excellent quality fish and produce, nestled away in Holland Village Shopping Centre, in front of what will soon be another Sushiro outlet.

Mad Roaster’s Slow Bar is an idyllic weekend spot in Lengkok Bahru that embodies the best qualities for a brunch venue with a selection of excellent coffee options, a wide variety of food and incredibly welcoming staff.

Letra House, a destination that brings the traditional tapas dishes we know and love into sharp focus under a modern lens, employing techniques that accentuate the sweetness and quality of their produce while paired with an amazing and wide variety of curated wines and drinks.

Specializing in brothless Japanese noodles, Kajiken serves up perfectly seasoned bowls topped with excellent ingredients. A must-visit for noodle lovers craving something rich and satisfying with room to make it uniquely yours with the range variety of toppings available.

Hashi Sushi is an institution in Sydney, one associated as the hallmark and pinnacle of sushi trains with a wonderful balance of variety and quality. Its reputation and fame is well deserved.

In my consistent search for Southeast Asian food in Sydney, Ya-Malaysia is one of the strongest contenders for a ticket on the nostalgia train, delivering a taste of home in a series of classic Malaysian dishes.

Sushi Sei is one of the many Kuon group franchises in Sydney with each offering a unique take and experience of Japanese cuisine. Open for walk-ins, Sushi Sei is a perfect experience for a low-stress special occasion offering seasonal glimpses of Japan.

Amongst the sprawling number of excellent eateries, lies a slice of Hong Kong and a pinnacle of Cantonese cuisine that has been there since 2023.

A taste of authentic dimsum in Western Sydney, served upon the traditional steamer carts with a series of classic dishes that impart a true homely taste.

As the temperatures rise every summer, so does the desire to have bowls of refreshing cold mul naeng myeon. Hoon Sik Dang is what one might call a specialist type restaurant with a few items upon the menu and so far from what I have tasted, there are many more reasons to return to try them all!

In Wolli Creek, Culture and Co Espresso Bar faces the Wolli Creek train station, their juice and brunch options a tantalising mix of excellent specials and classic menu items.

Gai Wong in Melbourne is a classic that specialises in arguably my favourite version of chicken and rice. Hainanese Chicken Rice is near and dear to me and Gai Wong is as close that I have been able to get to having a taste of home away from home.

The Roe in Glen Waverley is a strong contender for anyone wanting seafood based dishes, incorporating multiple species of sea urchin into their dishes- from the humble donburi to ramen, they leave you wanting for more!

Yakiniku Shin, a well-decorated yakiniku space in Haymarket, along the stroll from Market City down to Darling Quarter and Square. Having attended for a light and speedy lunch, this restaurant is worth another visit for their game meat offerings for the curious grillers!

With an ever changing landscape of foods in the city centre, Enjoy Mie was a pleasant find of a taste of Indonesian classics. I look forward to returning to sample more of their menu and potentially trying their murtabak!

Petermen in St Leonards is a longtime staple and favourite of mine for special occasions for a number of reasons. Since my first visit in 2023, my revisit for my birthday in 2024 only reminds me why I love the place and have it as one of my favourites.

Ito in Surry Hills is an enjoyable experience for shared plates, a great venue for conversation and group meetings. I would gladly return to try more options on their changing menu!

Hanasuki in Chatswood is an incredibly attractive venue with excellent food and service. Though the average cost is on the higher end, it is a venue I would return to for a special occasion.