Far Out: Food that’s worth the drive

Far Out: Food that’s worth the drive

Away from Singapore’s bustling city centre and its hot restaurants lies a scattered bunch of underrated eateries. They may not be the most accessible, but that doesn’t stop us from making our way (across the country sometimes!) to these places for some great chow. Rev up your engines, or flag down a taxi; these far-flung restaurants and cafes are worth the extra mile.

The Catch Seafood Restaurant & Bar

Choose from over 20 species of sea-dwelling critters (you know, Alaskan king crabs, blue lobsters, geoducks and the likes) cooked various ways, from the traditional (Chinese wine) to the modern (egg white with truffle oil). Also, don’t miss the side of crispy brinjal with salted egg yolk – this sinful creation is definitely a must-try. Then, order a round or two of their delish homemade sangria cocktails to wash it all down.

The Catch Seafood Restaurant & Bar, 27 Cosford Road, Singapore 499549, p. 6546 2155.

ColBar

Previously a canteen for the British Army back in 1953, Colbar serves a wide selection of British beer and comforting Hainanese-Western grub. The selling point of this charming bar is in its atmosphere. During their relocation, the owners ensured everything – including the clay roof tin and timbre walls – were carefully redesigned to mirror the original bar. From vintage weighing machines to historic photos of the Colbar Football Club, Colbar delivers a slice of old Singapore.
ColBar, 9A Whitchurch Road, Singapore 138839, p. 6779 4859.

Alkaff Mansion Ristorante

The Alkaff Mansion has been around since 1918 and this magnificent structure once belonged to a prominent family who specialised in trading spices, sugar, and coffee. Today, the Alkaff Mansion is a conservation building that serves exquisite Italian creations. Choose to have your meal in the restaurant itself, or head on outside to dine under the stars.
Alkaff Mansion Ristorante, 10 Telok Blangah Green, Singapore 109178, p. 6510 3068.

The White Rabbit – a popular spot for weddings and other grand occasions

The White Rabbit

Step inside this beautifully restored old chapel in Dempsey and you’ll be blown away by the grandness of the place. Paper white walls, dark furniture, high ceilings – everything about The White Rabbit is pristine. On the menu, Modern European plates take centre stage. Order the 36-hour Brandt shortribs for your main course and opt for the baked Alaska for dessert.
The White Rabbit, 39C Harding Road, Singapore 249541, p. 9721 0536.

The Coastal Settlement

At this cosy little spot you’ll find tons of vintage knick-knacks and quirky decor on display. Food-wise, expect honest comfort food, including burgers and pizzas, as well as local favourites like curry chicken and nasi lemak.
The Coastal Settlement, 200 Netheravon Road, Singapore 508529, p. 6475 0200.

Riders Cafe

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Riders Cafe (which is, in our opinion, the best thing you can get if you’re thinking of a short “country”-style escape). Tucked away in the lush greenery of Bukit Timah Saddle Club (yes, there are adorable horsies all around), this peaceful spot is great for any meal of the day. Try the Blackstone Benedict for brunch, the rosemary flatbreads (comes with sundried tomato hummus) for lunch, or the pan-fried snapper with miso-creamed kale if you’re here for dinner.
Riders Cafe, 51 Fairways Drive, Singapore 286965, p. 6466 9819.

Wildfire Kitchen + Bar is one of our top go-to spots for solid burgers

Wildfire Kitchen + Bar

Burgers and steaks take centre stage at this protein-focused BBQ restaurant. Must-tries include The Works burger (contains all the sinful stuff, from bacon to rosti potatoes and parmesan crisps), and the Fullblood Wagyu – a specialty burger that comes with Blackmore 100 percent fullblood wagyu patty, beer caramelised onions, cheddar cheese and Wildfire’s signature Master Sauce.
Wildfire Kitchen + Bar, 26 Evans Road, Singapore 259367, p. 6734 2080.

Buckaroo BBQ & Grill Restaurant

This long-standing Western eating spot in the Upper Bukit Timah area serves up the heartiest creations, from perfectly cooked steaks to fiery Buffalo wings. It’s really popular with families too, so round up the gang and drop by for dinner (or even Sunday brunch, 11.30am to 2.30pm).
Buckaroo BBQ & Grill Restaurant, 921 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 678202, p. 6754 2621.

Wild Oats

Situated in Punggol Park, Wild Oats is one laid-back hangout that’s perfect for you and your drinking buddies. The alcohol deals change every month (wine, Hibiki whisky, Crabbie’s Ginger Beer – the list is extensive), and food on the menu’s kept straightforward, think stuff like a creamy mushroom pasta, luncheon meat fries, and a lamb chop.
Wild Oats, 97 Hougang Avenue 8, Punggol Park, Singapore 538792, p. 6858 2087.

W39 Bistro & Bakery

One of the few cafes in the West Coast area, W39 specialises in European-inspired dishes. Tuck into favourites like the eggs Benedict with shredded braised lamb shank and mushrooms (which costs just $15). Prefer something with more local flavour? There’s the Nyonya mee siam.
W39 Bistro & Bakery, 39 Jalan Mas Puteh, Singapore 128637, p. 9646 5372.