“First dates are fraught with anxiety, and the last thing anyone needs is the added pressure from maintaining a sense of decorum at a fine dining restaurant. That’s not to say that Bar Cicheti isn’t sophisticated, but it is in a way that feels inviting. It’s cosy, with dark interiors and flattering yellow lighting. It’s cool, as the restaurant establishes through its house music playlist. On top of that, its character oozes out of its arches, from its framed photographs to its line-up of wine bottles (all great conversation starters, by the way).

Even if you don’t care for the atmosphere or acoustics, the food will still impress you. The best thing about Bar Cicheti’s spectacular pasta dishes is that they also come in tasting portions, so you and your date can try everything on the menu (as you will be tempted to). It’s a brilliant way to observe how good your date is at sharing. You can note and read too much into their preferred pasta type. And if they’re a bore, you won’t even be bitter because you would have been well-fed.”

—Pameyla Cambe, assistant digital editor

“To me, an ideal date venue should have similar criteria I’ll look for when planning a night out with my closest friends: that it feels cosy, has a good menu that you and your dining partner(s) would appreciate, and with seats adequately spaced out that you’re not raising your voices to hear each other. It should be a place that you feel comfortable, and that invites conversation.

I find myself returning to time and again to Jinjo, an elegant izakaya in Shaw House whenever I’m hankering for some sake and delectable Japanese dishes; there’s a wide array of grilled meats for those less keen on sashimi, as well as unique items like the yaki goma tofu (try it yourself to discover why it’s such a hit). The unagi donabe (Japanese-style claypot rice) among my favourite comfort-food dishes; I’ll usually pair these with charcoal-grilled chicken and vegetables skewers, depending on greedy you’re feeling.”

—Hong Xinying, regional managing editor, Tatler Homes

Jinjo, 1 Scotts Road, 02-19/20, S(228208), +65 6732 2165

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“Housed in Singapore's storied Customs House along Collyer Quay is Caffe Fernet, an unsuspecting yet charming restaurant by Jigger & Pony group. This restaurant is a lovely date spot if you or your loved one enjoys digging into Italian fare and artisanal cocktails. Sit alfresco with a plate of their signature Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe and sip on a refreshing Negroni while enjoying the stunning views of the Singapore Marina. It doesn't get any better than this.”

—Margaux Levy, writer, Tatler Homes

“My idea of a romantic dinner can vary from a casual picnic to a fancy meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant. The latter is not an everyday occurrence, but if I’m looking to splurge, a meal at Jaan would be an ideal choice. After all, from its stunning interiors and the gorgeous view of the island’s skyline to chef-owner Kirk Westaway’s lavish menu, it can’t get any more romantic than this. 

The food is definitely the main highlight at Jaan. While the menu changes, depending on the season, look out for dishes like the sweet onion tart. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming looks—the dish is filled with rich umami flavours that unfold with each bite. A meal here is definitely worth every penny.”

—Amanda Goh, digital writer

“La Dame de Pic’s elegant interiors set the mood for a romantic night out in town, but the highlight is definitely Pic’s delectable contemporary French fare laced with Asian accents (she’s not called the ‘citrus queen’ for nothing). Dishes here always change according to seasons, but some signatures remain such as berlingots. The last time I came here for dinner, the delicate pasta parcels were stuffed with decadent French cheese fondue and bathed in an umami-packed beetroot kombu broth and accented with galangal and herb of grace (which she discovered at Singapore’s Chinatown market).”

—Dudi Aureus, senior dining editor

This article was first published on February 11, 2021 and updated on February 3, 2023.

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