Exclusive: First look at The Standard, Singapore, set to open its doors this December

We checked into the Standard King, a 23 sqm space that’s complete with a king bed, custom Davines bath amenities and a plush sofa. Floor-to-ceiling windows complete the room, bringing natural light in while offering city views. On top of the usual amenities, such as a Nespresso coffee machine and kettle, the room also featured amenities such as a portable Bluetooth speaker and hypoallergenic pillows that made our stay all the more enjoyable.

On top of classic rooms, the hotel also boasts a lavish 42 sqm Standard Suite Pool View. Step in and find a beautiful art piece hanging from its ceiling that is the length of two floors. Beyond the living area, the ensuite bathroom and bedroom are complete with modern amenities and gorgeous pool views.

While the property has yet to introduce tailored experiences for in-house guests, there’s still plenty to explore within the hotel. For starters, you can still lounge by the swimming pool (that’s almost as long as an Olympic-sized pool) to get your tan on. While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the pool bar for a tipple or two. It’s also framed with daybeds and foliage, offering a tranquil and relaxing experience that makes you forget you’re in the heart of a buzzing city.

The Garden is one of our favourite parts of the property, featuring lush landscaping and hidden nooks perfect for relaxing. Be sure to keep a lookout for a variety of art pieces curated by the hotel and displayed within the garden. 

Once we checked in, we made a pit stop by Cafe Standard for a quick bite before exploring the rest of the hotel. Located on the ground floor, the cafe offers an all-day menu featuring delectable American fare. Alongside chopped salads, cheese and charcuterie platters, guests can also tuck into hearty dishes such as the Naughty Chicken Burger. It quickly became one of our favourites as the burger is layered with crispy buttermilk marinated chicken, cabbage and a tangy sriracha sauce. Feeling indulgent, we paired these plates with the Bourbon Biscoff Shake. One of the three milkshakes available, the rich concoction is available with and without alcohol and includes whisky, vanilla ice cream, Biscoff spread and bourbon vanilla syrup. It’s topped with a generous serving of whipped cream and Biscoff crumbs.

Along with its creamy milkshakes, the cafe serves up an extensive selection of signature cocktails inspired by various films. For example, The Carrie Cosmo is inspired by the 2008 film Sex and the City and comprises vodka, bergamot liqueur, sakura vermouth, house-made cranberry thyme shrub, house-made pomegranate and rosemary syrup, Peychaud bitters and lychee air foam.

In the evening, we visited Kaya at The Standard for dinner—which is the hotel’s interpretation of a traditional Japanese izakaya. Here, the restaurant reimagines Japanese flavours; think seasonal fish carpaccio dressed in a wasabi vinaigrette, 30-day shoyu koji marinated lamb and sweet potato Mont Blanc. The restaurant’s vibrant interiors elevate the experience, with warm wood furniture, hanging greenery and stunning floral wallpaper.

Of course, a meal isn’t complete without a tipple or two. Located within the restaurant, Kaya Bar serves up unique connections with a Japanese twist. As part of the low and no-alcohol movement, the bar also offers a range of drinks with low alcohol by volume (ABV). The Standard SeXpresso features banana peel rum, cold brew coffee liqueur, spiced vanilla syrup, espresso, and soy sauce.

Kaya at The Standard is also where we enjoyed breakfast. Here, find classic breakfast fare alongside Japanese-inspired ones. The udon laksa is a must-try, comprising thick rice noodles bathed in a flavourful and spicy broth.

Wander the grounds of the property and you’ll find curated art pieces by local and international artists. 

There are more pieces and sculptures to come, but we were given a glimpse at what some of the hotel’s art collection would look like. 

NOW READ

Hotel review: Conrad Singapore Orchard’s lavish Conrad Suite is a peaceful urban sanctuary

Where to stay: The most beautiful new hotels in Asia

The Langham to open its first property in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia come 2027