Modern British Restaurants in Singapore

A guide to modern British restaurants in Singapore

Modern British cooking takes classic dishes from the United Kingdom and makes them lighter, fresher and more seasonal. There are few modern British restaurants in Singapore, but the style suits a special meal. This guide explains what to expect, how to book and where to find similar food.

What is modern British food?

Traditional British food is hearty. Think roast beef, pies, fish and chips and steamed puddings. Over recent decades, British chefs have rethought these dishes. They focus on local, seasonal produce, careful technique and lighter sauces.

Modern British menus often include:

• Seasonal vegetables: such as heritage tomatoes, leeks or asparagus.
• Seafood: crab, scallops, mackerel and other cold-water fish.
• Roasts and game: lamb, beef, duck or venison.
• British cheeses: such as cheddar and Stilton, a strong blue cheese.
• Puddings: the British word for dessert. Sticky toffee pudding is a warm date sponge with toffee sauce.

Classics may also appear in new forms. Examples include the Sunday roast, Yorkshire pudding (a crisp, puffy batter cup) and scones with clotted cream.

Modern British restaurants in Singapore: where to eat

JAAN by Kirk Westaway is a fine dining restaurant in the City Hall & Clarke Quay area. It is also listed under sky dining, so expect city views. Meals are usually set tasting menus. A tasting menu is a series of small courses chosen by the chef.

How a tasting menu works

Many tasting menus start with a few small bites called canapés. Bread and butter may arrive as a course of its own. Lighter fish or vegetable dishes come next, then a meat course. A cheese course or one or two desserts follow. Tiny sweets called petit fours often end the meal.

Make a day of it

The City Hall area is home to some of Singapore's major museums. Visit National Gallery Singapore or the National Museum of Singapore before dinner. City Hall MRT station serves the area. After dinner, walk down to Clarke Quay to see the river lit up at night.

Related pages

For more European cooking, see Modern European and European & Italian. For another modern take on a national cuisine, see Modern Australian. Rooftop & Sky Dining lists more tables with a view, and Fine Dining lists more tasting menus.

How to book and what to expect

• Book well ahead. Fine dining rooms have few tables. Reserve early for weekends and special dates.
• Ask for a window table. If views matter, ask when you book. It may not always be possible.
• Allow time. A tasting menu can take two to three hours.
• Share diet needs early. Set menus are prepared in advance. Tell the restaurant about allergies when you book.
• Dress smart. Smart casual is the usual standard. Avoid shorts, singlets and flip-flops.
• Consider lunch. Some fine dining restaurants offer shorter lunch menus at lower prices. Lunch is also a good time to enjoy daytime views.
• Know rough costs. Fine dining tasting menus in Singapore often cost around S$200 to S$400 or more per person. Prices change, so check the menu first.

FAQs about modern British restaurants in Singapore

What is modern British cuisine?

It is British cooking made lighter and more seasonal. Chefs use fresh produce and modern techniques to update classic dishes.

What is the difference between modern British and modern European food?

Modern British food starts from British dishes and produce. Modern European food draws on many European kitchens, especially French and Italian.

Is there a dress code at fine dining restaurants in Singapore?

Most ask for smart casual clothes. Check the restaurant's website before you go.

Is lunch cheaper than dinner at fine dining restaurants?

Often, yes. Many fine dining restaurants offer shorter lunch menus at a lower price. Check what is offered when you book.

What is a British pudding?

In Britain, "pudding" can mean any dessert. It also names some savoury dishes, such as Yorkshire pudding, which is served with roast beef.