Cover (Photo: Tempura Makino)

Not a fan of airplane food? Fill your stomach at these establishments at Jewel Changi Airport instead

As the summer vacation kicks off, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for discovering new destinations. And when it comes to starting your next culinary adventure, Jewel Changi Airport is an exceptional place to begin. With over 100 different F&B options to choose from, there is definitely something for every craving. If you have an upcoming flight, why not drop by a little earlier and indulge in some of Jewel Changi Airport’s variety of offerings before checking in? Here are some options to get you started. 

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1. Tempura Makino

This tempura speciality store puts the spotlight on all things tempura. Hailing from Japan, the joint offers Tsudoage style, where its handcrafted tempura dishes are made-to-order and served one by one. Its à la carte dinner menu is extensive, with a wide selection of tempura including oyster, steak and Japanese eggplant dipped in a light batter and fried until crisp and golden brown. If you have time to spare, go for the Omakase which features sashimi, five seafood tempura, four vegetable tempura and scallop kakiage don.

Tempura Makino, 78 Airport Boulevard, 01-223 Jewel, Singapore Changi Airport, S(819666), +65 6285 7488

2. Kiwami: Ramen & Gyoza Bar

At Kiwami, its ramen offers traditional ramen with a local twist. Take the lobster laksa ramen, featuring juicy Boston lobster, springy noodles, Japanese fish cake and Okinawa ramen egg. Each comforting bowl is also filled with a spicy laksa broth. But, those who prefer classic flavours can try premium Kiwami tonkotsu ramen that features its signature tonkotsu broth that comprises Japanese pork bones simmered for over 10 hours to achieve a rich broth. The bowl brims with tender toroniku cha su, Hokkaido wheat noodles and Okinawa ramen egg.

Kiwami: Ramen & Gyoza Bar, 78 Airport Boulevard, 01-225 Jewel, Singapore Changi Airport, S(819666), +65  6241 5529

3. Sourbombe Artisanal Bakery

Donut fans will want to head to Jewel for a taste of Sourbombe Artisanal Bakery’s sweet and fluffy creations. A mix between sourdough and Italian bombolini, its sourbombes come in a range of sweet and savoury flavours—think mango pavlova, lavender lime mascarpone and taro attap chee. On top of its indulgent sourbombes, other pastries are also available, like the pistachio rose roll that sees premium Iranian pistachios, rose petals and pistachio praline encased in a buttery and flaky pastry.

Sourbombe Artisanal Bakery, 78 Airport Boulevard, 02-237, S(819666)

4. Beauty In The Pot

Beauty In The Pot’s warm and comforting broths are sure to help lull you to sleep onboard the plane. Go for its signature soup, created from a medley of dried scallops, chicken and pork bones. The fragrant broth is boiled for hours, resulting in a thick collagen-rich soup base. Take your pick from a wide range of ingredients available, like the homemade fish tofu, Chinese wine kampong chicken and live crab.

Beauty In The Pot, 78 Airport Boulevard, B2 - 224, S(819666), +65 6242 5131

5. Jumbo Seafood

Get a last taste of chilli crab before hopping on the plane at Jumbo Seafood. Apart from its two signature dishes of chilli crab and black pepper crab, dig into an extensive range of dishes like the fragrant fried rice with crab meat, cereal prawn and smoky white teat sea cucumber. If you’ve got time to spare, opt for one of the restaurant’s set menus. The B2 set starts with a chilled mango shredded roast duck salad followed by juicy live lobster, steamed cod fish and the award-winning chilli crab.

Jumbo Seafood, 78 Airport Boulevard, 03-202 203 / 204, S(819666)

6. The Hainan Story Chapter Two

The Hainan Story’s third outlet can be found at at Jewel Changi Airport, and offers all the classic Singaporean and Hainanese favourites. On top of existing brands, don’t miss out on dishes from 218 Hainanese Lor Mee and Ah Mai Kum Hainanese Chicken Rice Porridge. The joint also sells locally-inspired flavoured cookies for you to bring along on your trip. The ondeh ondeh cookies are a fan favourite offering buttery flavours of caramel and gula Melaka. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, go for the sweet and savoury hae bee hiam cookies.

The Hainan Story Chapter Two, B2-201/202, Jewel Changi, 78 Airport Boulevard, S(819666)

7. Birds of Paradise

Indulge in a scoop of gelato at this local gelateria. Here, scoops are inspired by the botanical flavours of South East Asia—think Earl Grey and lemongrass, sea salt hojicha and osmanthus pear. The white chrysanthemum is a popular choice and comes infused with chrysanthemum florets and cacao nibs.

Birds of Paradise, 78 Airport Boulevard, 01 - 254 Floor 1, S(819666)

8. Arteastiq Bistro

Take a trip to France in advance on the top floor of Jewel, where Arteastiq Bistro awaits. Nestled amidst lush greenery and offering panoramic views of the world’s biggest indoor waterfall, this bistro is a haven for food enthusiasts and tea connoisseurs alike. Among their exquisite culinary offerings is the Hokkaido scallop and squid ink spaghetti, a harmonious blend of succulent scallops and al dente pasta bathed in a velvety sauce. Experience the ultimate decadence with their luscious seafood afternoon tea set, where you relish in a lavish selection of seafood delicacies. For those with a penchant for tea, the Monet is a must-try—an aromatic rose floral tea that enthrals the senses, complemented by a scoop of chilled and velvety champagne vanilla gelato.

Arteastiq Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Blvd., #05 - 201, S(819666), 6243 1987

9. Tapas Club

Prepare to be transported to the heart of the Iberian Peninsula as you savour each bite made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients imported directly from Spain. Enhance your dining experience with a wide selection of Spanish wines, sangrias, and cocktails that perfectly complement the authentic flavours of the dishes. Begin your culinary journey with the tantalising Tabla De Embutidos, a platter showcasing a delightful assortment of mixed Ibérico cold cuts, paired with bread and tomato puree. And of course, no Spanish feast is complete without a hearty paella, with the Arroz Negro stealing the show with its rich squid ink paella, adorned with fresh cuttlefish and clams.

Tapas Club, 78 Airport Blvd., #03 - 220 / 221 / 222, S(819666), 9155 0906

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10. Sampanman

Drawing inspiration from Southeast Asian seafaring ethnic groups who lived on traditional wooden boats, Sampanman offers Singapore’s first "boat seafood" concept just before your airborne adventure. The flagship XXL fisherman sampan boasts a delectable assortment of Sri Lankan crab, Boston lobster, prawns, flower clams, mussels, half shell scallop, mantou bun, macaroni, and a choice of sauces, making it an ideal feast for up to six diners. Their repertoire of sauces features beloved classics like Singapore chilli crab and salted egg yolk, as well as adventurous options like Sichuan Mala and cheesy soil. For a truly personalised experience, diners can even create their own sampan, selecting from a variety of seafood in different sizes.

Sampanman Jewel, 78 Airport Blvd., B1-223, S(819666), 8028 1231

11. Hitoyoshi Izakaya

Experience a culinary voyage from Japan at Hitoyoshi Izakaya, the latest addition to Jewel’s vibrant dining scene. For those seeking a taste of everything, the Hitoyoshi Premium Bento Set offers a delightful assortment of signature items including soba, tempura, maki, sashimi, and sushi. Each piece of sashimi is a testament to their commitment to quality, with premium-grade fish imported from Japan daily. In addition to their exquisite cuisine, Hitoyoshi Izakaya presents a captivating selection of sake, whisky highballs, and other enticing liquors. Standout among their offerings are their intriguing highball flavours, such as popcorn, rose, spicy mango, osmanthus, and black pepper, adding a unique twist to this classic beverage.

Hitoyoshi Izakaya Singapore, 78 Airport Boulevard #05-205 Jewel, S(819666), 6015 0398

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12. Coucou Hot Pot

Step into an enchanting space that exudes a cozy “nest-like” ambiance, where Coucou offers an authentic dining experience that transports you to the heart of Taiwan. The star of the show at Coucou is undoubtedly their array of tantalizing soup bases – the coconut chicken soup delights with its gentle sweetness and rich coconut flavor, while tender chicken pieces add depth to the savory symphony. Complement your hotpot adventure with your choice of bubble tea, which is expertly paired with your hotpot soup base. 

Coucou Hotpot‧Brew Tea @Jewel, 78 Airport Blvd., #02 - 208 / 209, S(819666), 6992 2549

13. Poulet Bijou

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Above French roast chicken at Poulet Bijou

This French-themed bistro is set to satisfy any pre-flight cravings. Naturally, the star of its menu is the French roast chicken, marinated and brined overnight to create tender and succulent meat. It’s then roasted until golden brown and complimented with signature sauces including mushroom cream, cranberry and Diane sauce. Stay for dessert and get to indulge in delectable sweet treats, like the vanilla French toast complete with fresh strawberries and yogurt ice cream.

Poulet Bijou, 78 Airport Road Jewel 01-227, Singapore Changi Airport, S(819666), +65 6243 7820

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14. Mamma Mia Trattoria Caffe

Comforting Italian fare awaits gourmands at Mamma Mia Trattoria Caffe. Delight in simple Italian fare ranging from artisan pastas to timeless Italian classics. Standouts include handcrafted tortiglioni dressed in a creamy spicy pink sauce; fragrant truffle mushroom risotto; and linguine with spicy chicken katsu. The latter is a Japanese-French fusion dish comprising juicy chicken katsu on a bed of al dente linguine and generously coated in a sweet Japanese curry. Wash these tantalising dishes down with handcrafted drinks—try the green apple lime spritzer, a refreshing concoction of green apple, lime juice, elderflower and soda water. 

Mamma Mia Trattoria Caffe, 78 Airport Road Jewel, 04-200 Singapore Changi Airport, S(819666), +65 6214 9485

15. Pazzion Café

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Above Classic brunch favourites at Pazzion Café

Have an afternoon flight to catch? Head down to the airport early for a delectable brunch at Pazzion Café before checking in. On top of classic brunch favourites—think traditional English breakfast and mushrooms and avocado on toast—savour other dishes such as the fragrant cold truffle pasta and El Cubanos. The latter is an indulgent sandwich layered with succulent slow-cooked pulled pork, honey baked ham, Swiss cheese and mayo mustard.

Pazzion Café, 78 Airport Boulevard, B1-243/244, S(819666), +65 6876 9139

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16. Burger & Lobster

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Above Lobster rolls at Burger & Lobster

Staying true to its name, this UK-born seafood chain serves up prime-cut burgers and juicy lobster rolls. Here, get to savour tantalising signatures while treated to spectacular views of the majestic 40-metre-high rain vortex. Their version of a classic lobster roll features fresh and meaty Atlantic lobster chunks dressed in Japanese mayo and lemon. It’s served atop a buttery brioche bun and drizzled with a lemon and garlic butter sauce. As for burgers, the Mayfair is a crowd favourite and layered with succulent Nebraskan beef patty, pickles, tomato, onion and its secret burger sauce.

Burger & Lobster (multiple outlets), 78 Airport Boulevard, 05-203, S(819666), +65 6971 6126

17. Violet Oon Singapore

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It’s natural to miss flavours of home while travelling, so why not have a nostalgic meal at this Peranakan restaurant before you head off? Here, you will find classic Peranakan and Singaporean creations like the buah keluak ayam, a classic Nonya dish comprising spicy chicken stew and rich buak keluak nut infused with fresh root spices (lengkuas and turmeric); and beef rendang. The latter is a signature that contains fork-tender beef chunks braised in a flavourful spice mix and bathed in a fragrant coconut cream sauce. 

Violet Oon Singapore, 78 Airport Boulevard, 01-205/206, S(819666), +65 9834 9935

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18. Kam’s Roast

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Above Roast duck at Kam's Roast

Kam’s Roast is the Singapore outpost of one-Michelin-starred Kam’s Goose in Hong Kong. Despite the name change, the restaurant offers its signature roasts and cured sausages. Naturally, the roast duck is a must-try—ducks are meticulously cleaned, marinated and air dried before gorgeously roasted to smoky perfection. Hours of preparation results in a juicy and tender duck, with a thin crisp skin. Other standouts include the ‘toro’ char siew, made with premium pork belly and marinated in the restaurant’s secret sweet sauce.

Kam’s Roast (multiple outlets), 78 Airport Boulevard, 02-210 Jewel Changi Airport Mall, S(819666), +65 6513 3718

19. Yun Nans

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Above Dishes at Yun Nans

Head to Yun Nans for Asian flavours before your flight. Originally from China, this restaurant specialises in Yunan ethnic highland cuisine—one that uses fresh mountain ingredients from Yunnan Province. Whet the appetite with the steam pot chicken soup, a comforting and iconic dish that feature black-feet chicken pressure-steamed for three hours and bathed in a delicate and robust broth. Then, be enthralled by dishes such as crispy duck stir fried with dried chilli; crispy hor fun bathed in an aromatic prawn broth and crowned with Yunnan truffle shavings; and deep-fried prawns dressed in salted egg yolk.

Yun Nans (multiple outlets), 78 Airport Boulevard, 02-217, S(819666), +65 6908 3677

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20. Ice Lab

Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with a bowl of bingsu from Ice Lab. Choose from an extensive menu ranging from classics flavours, like injeolmi (Korean sweet rice cake), to innovative ones like taro and dalgona. On top of refreshing bingsu, don’t miss out on the injeolmi toast, an indulgent treat comprising soft rice cake sandwiched between fluffy toast. It’s finished with a generous dusting of kinako (soybean) powder.

Ice Lab (multiple outlets), Jewel Airport Boulevard B2-234, 78 Singapore Changi Airport, S(819666), +65 6980 6322

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21. Devil Chicken

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Above Crispy fried chicken cutlet at Devil Chicken

For something quick yet satisfying, head to this popular Taiwanese street food stall for a bite of its Taiwanese-style crispy fried chicken cutlet. Here, tender chicken cutlet is coated in light batter before fried till golden brown. Juicy on the inside yet crispy on the outside, the comfort food is served as is, or coated in a fiery spice mix. 

Devil Chicken (multiple outlets), 78 Airport Boulevard, B2-258, S(819666), +65 8126 6664

22. A&W

If you have extra time to kill (or queue), visit A&W for a decadent burger and indulgent root beer float. Go for the classic Mozza burger, layered with two juicy beef patties, cheddar cheese, lettuce and tomatoes. It’s finished with a generous slather of its secret signature Mozza sauce. Not a fan of beef? Its cream cheese chicken burger comprises juicy chicken cutlet fried until golden brown topped with fried onion ringlets, sauteed onions and its signature sauce. Of course, a trip to A&W isn’t complete without a root beer float, served in a frosty mug and topped with creamy vanilla ice cream.

A&W, 78 Airport Boulevard, B2-209, S(819666)

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