Cover Damian D’Silva to debut two new restaurants in the National Gallery Singapore this September (Photo: Rempapa)
Damian D’Silva to debut two new restaurants in the National Gallery Singapore this September (Photo: Rempapa)
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The Rebel Chef’s flavourful homecoming to the National Gallery Singapore is an epic celebration of Singapore’s rich culinary heritage
Damian D’Silva’s play for a gastronomic homecoming of epic proportions is in motion as he is set to unveil not one but two dining ventures at the National Gallery Singapore this September. This move sees his Michelin-selected Rempapa relocate from PLQ to the hallowed halls of the gallery, pledging the same intoxicating blend of heritage reverence and contemporary finesse. It will position itself as an all-day café, promising accessibility by offering signature rice bowls at a lower price point.
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The second venture, Gilmore & Damian D’Silva, reflects D’Silva’s deep personal connection to the National Gallery Singapore. It is named partially after the acclaimed chef’s grandfather, who once served as the caretaker of the former Supreme Court building that now houses part of the gallery. Veering into more ambitious territory, this brand-new establishment teases a showcase of Eurasian and Singaporean heritage cuisine by elegantly resurrecting near-extinct recipes from Singapore’s storied past.
“Food has always been a powerful way to tell stories, and with these two concepts, I want to bring to life the flavours and traditions that define Eurasian and Singapore heritage cuisine,” shares D’Silva, who recalls a significant portion of his childhood wandering the very corridors alongside his grandfather, where diners would soon gather. “With the support of National Gallery Singapore, we’re not just preserving heritage, we’re elevating it for a new generation of diners and museum-goers.”
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Chris Lee, assistant chief executive of National Gallery Singapore’s museum experience and operations, reaffirms D’Silva’s sentiment: “The gallery has always been a place where history, art, and culture intersect. We hope the addition of Rempapa and Gilmore & Damian D’Silva enriches the visitor experience, creating a space for conversation, connection, and a shared appreciation of Singapore and Southeast Asia, and its art and culinary heritage.”
There is a mystical quality about this culinary return as if the gallery itself had been patiently awaiting its prodigal son’s return. Widely regarded as an unrivalled guardian of Singapore’s vanishing flavours, D’Silva’s approach to cuisine has always been about excavating forgotten flavours rather than chasing ephemeral food fads, amassing formidable culinary credentials, including La Liste’s Artisan and Authenticity Award 2024 and the Singapore Tourism Board’s Special Recognition Award.
Above Facade of the National Gallery Singapore (Photo: National Gallery Singapore)
Facade of the National Gallery Singapore (Photo: National Gallery Singapore)
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Opening September 2025, these twin ventures, powered by OUE Restaurants, form part of National Gallery Singapore’s broader refresh where the curatorial approach to dining mirrors its artistic mission. For epicureans who believe cuisines are our most vital cultural expressions, this collaboration between Singapore’s premier art institution and its devoted culinary historian feels not just timely, but essential.
