Best Restaurants in Singapore for CNY 2026

Photo Credits: Portfolio Mag Singapore

Chinese New Year stands as one of Singapore’s most cherished celebrations, and the dining scene transforms into a spectacular showcase of culinary excellence. Whether you’re planning an intimate family gathering or a grand reunion feast, the best restaurants in Singapore offer compelling reasons to book your table early. The 2026 celebration of the Year of the Horse invites diners across the island to experience carefully curated menus, premium ingredients, and atmospheres steeped in festive tradition.

What Are the Best Restaurants in Singapore Right Now?

Singapore’s dining landscape continues to evolve with remarkable diversity. The city-state has become a destination where culinary innovation thrives alongside heritage traditions, making it an ideal location for celebrating Chinese New Year. Across Central, East, North-East, North, and West regions, restaurants have reinvented themselves to cater to evolving palates whilst maintaining respect for cultural significance.

The best restaurants in Singapore consistently demonstrate mastery across multiple dimensions: ingredient quality, technical execution, creative presentation, and most importantly, the ability to create memorable dining moments. For CNY 2026, many establishments have developed specialised menus that honour traditional auspicious dishes—such as prosperity yu sheng with premium seafood, elaborately braised abalone, and whole fish preparations—whilst incorporating modern techniques and unexpected flavour combinations.

Photo Credits: Madame Fan

Madame Fan at PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay exemplifies this balance, offering modern Cantonese fare from mid-January through early March. Their “Spring in Shimmer” celebration features set menus beginning at S$108++ per person, with premium offerings ascending to S$388++. The signature Hamachi Yu Sheng, available exclusively for dine-in service, combines traditional prosperity symbolism with contemporary Japanese influences. Similarly, Shang Palace at Shangri-La presents six eight-course menus ranging from S$198++ to S$888++, each constructed around auspicious Cantonese classics including Fortune Yu Sheng with Norwegian smoked salmon and poached lobster, Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and braised premium abalone.

For those seeking fusion experiences during the festive season, COTE Singapore reimagines the hotpot tradition through Korean steakhouse craftsmanship. Their Bluefin Tuna Yu Sheng (S$128++) introduces perilla leaves and plum-yuja vinaigrette alongside premium tuna, presenting an innovative take on prosperity dishes. The Feast of the Fire Stallion (S$178++ per person) combines five prized beef cuts with Korean accompaniments, creating a celebratory experience that transcends singular culinary traditions.

The Four Seasons Hotel Singapore delivers remarkable range across its portfolio. Jiang-Nan Chun, Michelin-recommended for its refined Chinese cuisine, presents set menus from S$218 per person featuring Executive Chinese Chef Alan Chan’s signature Prosperity Yu Sheng abundant with lobster, abalone, smoked salmon, and surf clams. The hotel’s dedicated Lunar New Year takeaway window (16–24 February) offers handcrafted sweet and savoury classics, whilst banquet menus from S$1,788 per table of ten accommodate larger celebrations.

Photo Credits: Cherry Garden by Chef Fei

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei at Mandarin Oriental showcases Chaoshan-style excellence through refined presentation. The restaurant’s house-made Chaoshan sour plum sauce crowns vegetables and premium toppings, with the Lobster Yu Sheng available both as an à la carte centrepiece and integrated within the Fortune Set Menu (S$688++ per person). Four thoughtfully curated set menus bring together symbolic starters including pan-fried lotus root patties with crab meat, charcoal-grilled New Zealand live abalone, seared Xisha lobster, and crispy fried chicken with flaxseed, concluding with refined desserts featuring bird’s nest, peach gum, or fragrant ginger and jujube.

Beyond ultra-premium establishments, outstanding mid-range options deserve equal consideration. Little Pond at Bedok Mall creates unexpected sanctuary within shopping centre bustle, combining contemporary aesthetics with traditional Chinese design sensibilities. The Golden Sauerkraut Fish arrives in clay pot with amber-gold broth, whilst the Golden Abalone Chicken presents braised chicken pieces in mahogany glaze beside tender abalone infused with braising liquid essence.

Fine Dining vs Casual Dining in Singapore

The distinction between fine dining and casual dining restaurants fundamentally shapes the Chinese New Year celebration experience. Fine dining establishments emphasise ceremony, culinary precision, and refined atmospheres—characteristics that elevate reunion dinners into occasions worthy of family lore. Conversely, casual dining restaurants prioritise accessibility, warmth, and convivial atmospheres that encourage extended gatherings and uninhibited celebration.

Fine Dining CNY Experiences

Fine dining restaurants position themselves as curators of tradition and innovation. Jiang Nan Chun at Four Seasons exemplifies this approach through menus that celebrate heritage Cantonese techniques whilst showcasing ingredients of exceptional provenance. The double-boiled spiky sea cucumber soup with wild termite fungus, sea whelk, and Hokkaido conpoy represents the kind of labour-intensive preparation that distinguishes fine dining: hours of gentle heat extraction maximising umami whilst preserving delicate flavours.

Yi by Jereme Leung at Raffles Hotel Singapore delivers ceremony through composed, multi-course progressions. The restaurant’s Prosperous, Abundance, and Opulence menu tiers accommodate different celebration scales, whilst the à la carte selection permits culinary curation aligned with individual preferences. Refined flavours coexist with cultural reverence—each course unfolds as both nourishment and storytelling about Chinese culinary heritage.

Shang Palace and Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro similarly anchor fine dining through technical mastery and ingredient calibre. Premium abalone, fresh lobster, Japanese and Norwegian seafood, and luxury proteins undergo preparation reflecting decades of accumulated knowledge. The dining rooms themselves—with floor-to-ceiling windows, fine linens, and attentive service protocols—communicate that the occasion merits respect and celebration.

Ban Lan, a Michelin Selected establishment, embraces Fujian-style authenticity through menus available from 9 February to 3 March 2026. The restaurant’s Prosperity Yu Sheng (small S$66, large S$96) showcases distinctive Fujian touches including shredded taro, roasted first-harvest seaweed, and dried persimmon combined with house-made sauce achieving sweet, tangy, and aromatic harmony.

Casual Dining CNY Experiences

Photo Credits: Xiao Ya Tou on Duxton Hill

Casual dining restaurants succeed by democratising celebration and lowering barriers to joyful gathering. Xiao Ya Tou on Duxton Hill exemplifies this through exuberant retro aesthetics—jade green tiles reminiscent of 1960s kopitiam culture, hot pink neon signs crackling with electric energy, vintage rattan furniture in honey-coloured tones, and paper lanterns in crimson, tangerine, and saffron yellow. The dining experience explicitly rejects formality in favour of Instagram moments and genuine good times.

Suki-Ya at Heartland Mall democratises hotpot celebration through unlimited ingredient access and booth-style seating equipped with personal induction burners. The restaurant prioritises participation and social connection—each diner controls cooking timing, selects preferred ingredients, and customises dipping sauces. This interactive model transforms dining into collective experience, perfectly suited to multigenerational CNY gatherings where varying preferences require accommodation.

Little Pond at Bedok Mall balances contemporary aesthetics with accessible pricing and authentic Cantonese comfort food. The Golden Sauerkraut Fish in clay pot, Golden Abalone Chicken, and signature preparations arrive at tables without ceremonial pretension, yet with unmistakable care in execution. The space accommodates both intimate family groups and celebratory gatherings through flexible table arrangements and festive decorations during the season.

Fu Yuan Teochew Dining at Clarke Quay prioritises live seafood and expertly braised meats through a more casual framework than ultra-premium establishments, yet maintains rigorous standards. The Teochew-style Steamed Pomfret highlights fish freshness through sour plums and tomatoes, whilst braised duck and tofu capture the emphasis on family unity that characterises Teochew CNY traditions. Set menus commence from S$488, providing accessibility beyond ultra-luxury price points whilst maintaining ingredient integrity.

Best Restaurants Singapore by Cuisine Type

Singapore’s restaurant ecosystem spans diverse culinary traditions, permitting celebration choices aligned with personal preference, dietary requirements, and cultural affinity.

Cantonese & Traditional Chinese Fine Dining

Cantonese cuisine commands exceptional respect during CNY, rooted in centuries of techniques perfecting seafood preparation, dim sum artistry, and celebratory feast structure. Jiang Nan Chun, Shang Palace, Cherry Garden by Chef Fei, Yi by Jereme Leung, and Ban Lan represent the pinnacle of this tradition. Each establishment approaches Cantonese fundamentals—seafood quality, precise heat control, sauce balance—with philosophical seriousness.

Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Singapore continues this tradition through panoramic Marina Bay skyline views, complementing the refined Cantonese execution. The Classic Treasure Pot (Pen Cai), meticulously layered with high-grade scallops, roast duck, and sea cucumber, typifies the labour-intensive preparation separating premium establishments from casual options.

5 ON 25 at Andaz Singapore on the 25th floor offers modern Cantonese dining with emphasis on sustainability. Head Chef Lim Hong Lih curates menus featuring high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. The Yu Sheng features Petuna Ocean Trout and vegetables sourced from local vertical farms, addressing contemporary diners’ environmental consciousness whilst preserving traditional auspicious symbolism.

The Black Pearl at Odeon 333 presents Chinese New Year set menus featuring signatures such as Chef’s Signature Braised Boston Lobster Rice, Black Truffle Crispy Roasted Duck, Braised South African Abalone, and Shark’s Fin & Seafood Soup. The elevated positioning above the city creates ceremonial atmosphere appropriate for significant celebrations.

Teochew & Regional Chinese Specialisations

Teochew cuisine emphasises simplicity, freshness, and clarity of flavour—characteristics that shine during festival celebrations. Fu Yuan Teochew Dining specialises in live seafood and braised meats, with the 2026 menu highlighting Teochew-style Steamed Pomfret alongside classic Braised Duck with Tofu. The large round tables facilitate family unity emphasis central to Teochew traditions.

Photo Credits: Mimi Restaurant at Clarke Quay

Mimi Restaurant at Clarke Quay, housed within a 155-year-old Chinese mansion, offers nostalgic dining experiences in authentic heritage settings. The CNY reunion dinner menu anchors itself in Cantonese and Teochew flavours, with vegetarian options ensuring inclusive celebration. Feast sets commence from S$98 per person (minimum four), whilst vegetarian menus begin at S$88 per person.

The Paradise Group operates multiple specialised concepts throughout Singapore. Taste Paradise offers elaborate menus of fine Cantonese and contemporary Chinese cuisine, whilst Paradise Teochew curates authentic Teochew-style signatures. Beauty in The Pot and Paradise Hotpot provide steaming pot experiences, with families also accessing Paradise Dynasty, Canton Paradise, Paradise Classic, and Seafood Paradise for cozier gatherings.

Korean & Japanese Fusion

COTE Singapore reimagines holiday celebration through Korean steakhouse craftsmanship. The Feast of the Fire Stallion (S$178++ per person) combines five prized cuts of USDA Prime, Australian Wagyu, and Korean Hanwoo ribeye with classic Korean accompaniments and comforting stews. The Bluefin Tuna Yu Sheng introduces perilla leaves and plum-yuja vinaigrette, creating East-West harmony within the prosperity toss tradition.

Suki-Ya provides Japanese hotpot (shabu-shabu) with unlimited ingredient access. The value-oriented model accommodates budget-conscious celebrations whilst maintaining quality standards through careful ingredient sourcing. Diners customise broths (classic shabu-shabu, kimchi, or mushroom), select from beef, pork, chicken, and seafood proteins, and balance with fresh vegetables and noodles.

Neon Pigeon on Keong Saik Road combines Japanese and European flavours through hip izakaya energy. Duck bulgogi, New Zealand cod katsu, and bone marrow and uni preparations exemplify fusion creativity, whilst smaller plates encourage sharing and tasting across varied cuisines.

Modern Asian & Contemporary Fusion

QIN Restaurant & Bar at The Clan Hotel presents sophisticated East-West fusion. The modern Asian approach transforms familiar ingredients through Western techniques—seared black pepper beef tenderloin with Sarawak peppercorns, wok-fired lobster in XO sauce—creating dishes that bridge culinary traditions without compromising either.

Arbora at Mount Faber offers Western classics and Asian specialisations amidst panoramic greenery and harbour views. The grilled sea bass, roasted vegetables, and laksa showcase technical precision across culinary spectrum. The hilltop garden bistro setting provides sanctuary during busy CNY celebrations, with breezy outdoor sections and tropical ambiance offsetting urban density.

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens serves Asian fusion selections alongside steaks within the world heritage site setting. The unique breakfast menu features Asian fusion cuisine, permitting celebratory day-shift dining alongside traditional dinner occasions.

Wildseed Cafe at The Summerhouse in Seletar offers Western fusion and Singaporean fare within colonial-style black and white bungalow surrounded by tropical gardens. Eggs Benedict with hollandaise, soft-shell chilli crab linguine, and garden-fresh preparations attract those prioritising lighter fare during heavy-eating festive periods.

Southeast Asian Specialisations

Photo Credits: Bistro Eminami at Downtown East

Bistro Eminami at Downtown East transports diners to Hanoi and Saigon streets through thoughtful design and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The pho, built upon leg bone broth simmered minimum twelve hours, exemplifies the care distinguishing premium Southeast Asian offerings. Hue-style spicy noodles with pork hock and Vietnamese pork sausage, banh mi with char siu or grilled chicken—these comfort foods create convivial CNY celebrations.

Sarai Fine Thai at Tanglin Mall offers four-course CNY sets at S$88 per person and à la carte yu sheng from S$38, making premium Thai celebration accessible. The flavourful medley of Thai delicacies permits those preferring Southeast Asian profiles to participate in CNY festivities.

Plant-Based & Dietary-Inclusive Options

Elemen at Woodlands Height represents the emerging plant-based dining wave that eschews dated health-food aesthetics in favour of modern appeal. The braised tai lok mee showcases how traditional Chinese comfort food reimagines authentically without animal products. Thick noodle strands coated in dark brown umami-rich sauce, mock meats providing satisfying texture, vegetables like bok choy adding colour and freshness—these dishes prove plant-based cuisine delivers comfort and satisfaction.

Blue flower tofu, coloured pale periwinkle through butterfly pea flower extract, exemplifies modern plant-based artistry. The silken texture melts instantly, releasing subtle sweetness and clean soy flavour, served within light broths and complementary vegetables.

Multiple establishments—Elemen, Good Bites, Citrus By The Pool—offer halal-certified or vegetarian alternatives, ensuring dietary requirements and religious observances receive equal respect and culinary attention.

Seafood Specialists

Jumbo Seafood operates multiple locations including Resorts World Sentosa and Ion Orchard, specialising in Singapore-style seafood and signature chilli crab. Reunion sets from S$388 and celebration sets from S$338 permit flexible celebration scales. The restaurant’s mastery over shellfish preparation—achieving perfect texture, balancing sweetness and brininess—makes seafood specialists natural choices for CNY celebrations centring aquatic prosperity symbolism.

Orchid Live Seafood maintains multiple locations including HomeTeamNS Khatib and Jalan Kelulut, prioritising premium, fresh live seafood. Set menus commence from S$488, with à la carte items from S$68, offering flexibility in celebration structuring. The emphasis on live preparation—selecting from tanks immediately before cooking—ensures maximum freshness and quality.

Yang Ming Seafood operates three outlets celebrating Lunar New Year with specially curated CNY Set Menus available from 23 January to 3 March 2026. Time-honoured recipes combine with celebratory favourites, creating menus that balance tradition with contemporary preparation standards.

Buffet & Large Group Options

The Line at Shangri-La Singapore features one of Singapore’s most diverse reunion experiences with over ten live kitchens. The “Opulent Chinese New Year Buffet” showcases traditional Chinese favourites—roasted suckling pig, braised duck, longevity noodles—alongside seafood-on-ice stations with freshly shucked oysters and snow crab legs. The buffet format democratises luxury, permitting unlimited exploration without rigid menu constraints.

Photo Credits: Asian Market Cafe at Four Seasons

Asian Market Cafe at Four Seasons offers buffet spreads from S$80 per person, featuring live stations serving Singaporean classics: laksa, chicken rice, beef satay, kueh pie tee. The dessert assortment includes Nonya kueh, pineapple tarts, fried nian gao, and durian pengat, ensuring completion with satisfying sweetness.

Food Capital at Grand Copthorne Waterfront transforms riverside dining into festive wonderland, famous for “Prosperity Feasts” integrating Peranakan influences into traditional Chinese New Year spreads. Nyonya-style braised pork, Crispy Whole Seabass with Kumquat sauce, and additional CNY staples create celebratory abundance suited to large gatherings.

PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay’s Peach Blossoms provides both extensive Lunar New Year set menus and bountiful halal-certified buffet at Peppermint. The Happiness Reunion Family Bundle extends festivities beyond dining room through curated takeaway featuring Yu Sheng, classic celebratory dishes, and traditional nian gao.