FINANCE and food are unquestionably the two things Southeast Asia’s richest nation is most famous for.
While money makes the world go around, food might be taken even more seriously in the multicultural city-state of almost 6 million.
As a result, Singapore punches above its weight when it comes to the Michelin Guide’s coveted star ratings. Its latest Guide has added five more Singapore restaurants, with five more establishments serving a range of world cuisines receiving stars in 2018.
SEE ALSO: Malaysia vs Singapore: Who has better food?
Those recognised for the first time were traditional Cantonese offering Jiang-Nan Chun; modern Australian barbecue restaurant Burnt Ends; Nouri’s open kitchen which offers “seasonal and internationally inspired cuisine”; Sushi Kimura headed by a chef trained by a Tokyo sushi master; and wine-heavy French restaurant Ma Cuisine.
Nouri’s open kitchen. Source: Robin Thang/ Michelin Guide
“This 2018 selection is a reflection of the city of Singapore – a real cultural and economic crossroads – as it highlights both traditional and innovative restaurants that stand out for their creativity and cooking styles,” said Michael Ellis, International Director of Michelin Guides.
“It includes an extremely diverse choice, ranging from local street food to Teochew, French and Australian cuisine.”
SEE ALSO: Asean to focus on food, sustainability to boost tourism
According to the Michelin Guide, another five restaurants were again awarded 2 stars, “maintaining Singapore’s position as a gourmet destination of the first order.”
Some 34 addresses now have one-star ratings, but in 2018 no Singaporean place received the highest-order 3-star rating. Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle, a hawker stall which in 2016 famously became the first street food to be given a Michelin starring, has retained its one-star rating.
Some 50 establishments were also given a Bib Gourmand, including 17 new ones, which recognises the “quality-price ratio” of places serving a quality menu of up to 45 Singapore dollars (US$33).
