Singapore, often celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, is particularly appealing to food lovers exploring halal options. The city-state, renowned for its blend of cultures, offers a range of halal dining establishments, especially along the famous Orchard Road. This iconic stretch, known for its shopping, also presents many eateries catering to Muslim diners.
Orchard Road stretches 2.2 kilometers, becoming not just a shopping haven but also a food sanctuary for tourists, especially those seeking halal cuisine. First-time Muslim visitors can find it tricky to locate quality halal restaurants. To ease this hunt, Tempo English has curated a list of the 10 best halal dining spots along Orchard Road.
Top 10 Halal Restaurants on Orchard Road
Here’s what to savor on your next visit to Orchard Road, featuring recommendations from both TimeOut and TripAdvisor.
1. Monster Planet - Centrepoint
If Japanese cuisine is your favorite, look no farther than Monster Planet, located within the Centrepoint. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to serving top-quality Japanese dishes, particularly delicious katsu. Diners can expect to relish savory meals characterized by complex flavors, all the more enhanced with their homemade chili sauce, which you can request at various heat levels. Prices start at SGD 13.90.
2. Cappadocia Turkish & Mediterranean Restaurant
Cappadocia is not just notable for its extensive menu but also for its exceptional service. The friendliness of the staff adds to the dining experience, and patrons can enjoy live Mediterranean dance performances during special occasions. Be sure to order the Mezze platter—a delightful selection of appetizers and enjoy perfectly grilled kabobs, best paired with Lebanese wine. Prices start at SGD 14.
3. Poulet + Brasserie - ION Orchard
The signature dish at Poulet + Brasserie is its famous French roast chicken. Yet, this restaurant doesn’t stop there; its menu includes uniquely local dishes such as seafood eggs benedict and kaya French toast, encouraging visitors to explore contemporary French cuisine with local twists. Prices begin at SGD 12.
4. Tambuah Mas - Paragon
For authentic Indonesian flavors, Tambuah Mas is renowned for its gourmet offerings from Indonesia's diverse culinary traditions, including specialties from Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Java. Diners can indulge in comforting dishes like beef rendang and ikan nila goreng, with prices starting at SGD 13.
5. Cajun On the Wheels - Plaza Singapore
Cajun On the Wheels is particularly famous for its seafood spread, making it one of the most popular halal dining spots along Orchard Road. Visitors can immerse themselves post-shopping with their signature seafood platter, featuring Boston lobsters, Sri Lankan crabs, mussels, and prawns. Prices kick off at SGD 29.50.
6. Colonial Club Signatures - Paragon
A blend of Hainanese western dishes and Nyonya flavors, Colonial Club Signatures serves meals within a cozy atmosphere ideal for families seeking respite amid the busy Orchard vibe. Here, patrons can enjoy delicious local dishes starting from SGD 15.90.
7. Pistachio Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Grill
Complete with fresh ingredients and high culinary standards, Pistachio is celebrated for its classic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Signature dishes like the Red Snapper Fillet Marrakech are must-tries. Prices begin at just SGD 3.
8. StraitsKitchen
For those who appreciate Nyonya cooking, StraitsKitchen offers exceptional traditional meals within a family-friendly ambiance. With prices starting at SGD 30, it's the perfect spot to experience local flavors.
9. The Dim Sum Place - CentrePoint
The Dim Sum Place is known for its relaxed setting, making it easy to enjoy classic halal dim sum favorites without the crowds. Signature dishes include chicken feet, har gao, and fragrant egg garlic rice, with prices starting at under SGD 7.
10. Ichikokudo Hokkaido Ramen - 313@Somerset
While halal Japanese options can be sparse, Ichikokudo serves up authentic Hokkaido ramen alongside other traditional dishes. Its rich, umami broth is something not to miss, with prices starting at SGD 9.90.
This vibrant array of halal dining options makes Orchard Road not only a shopping destination but also a paradise for food lovers, beckoning both locals and tourists with the promise of delectable meals.
Beyond just dining, Singapore is constantly fostering its Muslim community's growth and integration within the diverse urban fabric. Plans are underway for the establishment of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS), aimed at grooming future religious leaders and those interested in contributing to society. Initiated back in 2016, the SCIS reflects the city's commitment to nurturing scholars and teachers equipped with the knowledge to provide relevant guidance within Singapore’s multicultural society.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the importance of the SCIS during a recent forum, declaring, "We want them to have the knowledge and skills to provide religious guidance...to guide our Muslims in responding confidently to issues of the modern world." This effort, part of broader government initiatives, aims to build bridges between the Malay-Muslim community and other groups, enhancing mutual trust and cooperation throughout Singapore.
The SCIS will work with several prestigious Islamic universities across the globe, including Egypt’s Al-Azhar and the University of Jordan, ensuring its curriculum aligns with contemporary issues faced by Muslim minorities. It aims not only at religious education but also emphasizes social science disciplines, proving instrumental for those wishing to engage deeply with societal issues.
The vision is clear: Singapore strives for an inclusive future where cultural diversity is celebrated and where the voices of all citizens can be heard and respected. Through initiatives like the SCIS and the promotion of halal dining, Singapore is paving the way for its Muslim population to thrive harmoniously within the multicultural framework.
