Besides giving us Netflix, pop culture and solid craft beers, America is home to seriously soul-satisfying food scattered across its 50 states, from Maryland’s crab cakes to Philadelphia’s cheesesteak sandwiches. Thankfully, with the ever-growing pool of American restaurants in Singapore, we have plenty of places to chow down on burgers, milkshakes, mac and cheese, steak, fried chicken, sticky ribs and more. Here are our favourite spots – you might need a Grand Canyon-sized appetite to get through all of ’em.
Best American restaurants in Singapore: BBQ
Tap into our guide on the best American BBQ restos for a smoky surprise.
Meatsmith
This lively modern smokehouse specialises in thrillingly tender, juicy meats prepared on-site using smokers specially flown in from the US. Its beef brisket hits the spot with just enough charred and fatty bits, while the Nashville chicken chop is battered to perfection. If you’re going in a group, load up on the mother of all platters (it feeds five). One order includes pastrami burnt ends, sausages, fried buffalo wings, brisket spring rolls, tomahawk steak, beef short rib and spiced pork ribs. On the drinks side, you’ll find a range of craft beers. But we encourage you to down the famous pickleback (a whisky shot chased with pickle brine) at least once.
Meatsmith, multiple locations including Telok Ayer and Little India
Smokey’s BBQ
Firing up an authentic barbecue experience, this joint slow roasts and smokes all its meaty mains with a secret blend of seasoning and wood chips carted in straight from the US. Feast on ribs and beef brisket seasoned in a special dry rub and doused in BBQ sauce – or chow down on burgers, jalapeno poppers and hush puppies.
Smokey’s BBQ, 73 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 427790
Jerry’s Barbecue & Grill
A mainstay in Club Street and Jalan Kayu, this eatery’s reliable bounty of barbecued goodness doesn’t disappoint. Expect flame-licked ribs, chicken, burgers and sandwiches, as well as the famous deep-fried mushrooms and buffalo wings. Oh, and extended happy hour promos will make you stay all day.
Jerry’s Barbecue & Grill, multiple locations including Club Street and Jalan Kayu
Red Eye Smokehouse
Strictly for meat lovers, this laidback American-style BBQ smokehouse knows what’s up. We’re talking fall-off-the-bone tender beef short ribs, brisket, pork ribs, pulled pork and short plate. All doused in smoky rubs and sauces that’ll make you thank the creator of BBQ. Oh, and don’t forget sinful sides like mashed potatoes with stout gravy and bone marrow butter, cornbread with honey butter, burnt ends beans, and dirty rice with chopped brisket and drippings. Round the crew for a filling meal!
Red Eye Smokehouse, 1 Cavan Road, Singapore 209842
Dallas Restaurant & Bar
The restaurant has been around for 10 years – a testament to the good food and great vibes. Its secret? Finger-lickin’ mains like decadent pork ribs, slow-cooked for two hours to achieve a perfect texture that’s tender without being flaky. Plus, a full rack of fiery ribs that will test your spice tolerance, and berry ribs that offer a unique but decidedly moreish tangy berry glaze.
Dallas Restaurant & Bar, multiple locations including Boat Quay and Marina Bay Sands
Best American restaurants in Singapore: Classic brunch
Start your weekend right with a hearty brunch at one of these popular eateries.
OverEasy
Loved equally for its kitschy vibe and dressed-up yet unpretentious grub, this all-American restaurant is great for all groups. Star dishes on the menu include truffle burger (wagyu beef patty, truffle mayo, Swiss cheese, sauteed onions and mushrooms) and truffled lobster mac and cheese. But the dish that’ll garner oohs and aahs around the table is the beer can chicken, a whole roasted chicken stuffed upright with a beer can. To wash down all that hearty grub, we suggest ordering milkshakes and root beer floats.
OverEasy, #01-06, One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213
Clinton Street Baking Company
A trip to New York City isn’t complete without visiting this brekkie mecca, which has practically perfected its fluffy pancake stack. If you aren’t visiting NYC, you can now get your fix at the Singapore branch. The aforementioned pancakes come with three mouthwatering choices: Blueberries, chocolate chunks and banana walnut. Other highlights include the buttermilk biscuit sandwich and the brownie sundae topped with a generous mound of whipped cream.
Clinton Street Baking Company, 31 Purvis Street, Singapore 188608
Two Men Bagel House
If you’ve ever been to New York, you’ll know bagels mean serious business. Two Men Bagel House comes pretty close, doling out hand-rolled bagels reminiscent of The Big Apple. Tuck into loaded beauts such as Hangover Helper (bacon, scrambled eggs, cheddar, tater tots and parmesan aioli), Elvis (candied bacon, caramelised banana jam, peanut butter) and Primal (smoked brisket, cheddar, chimichurri and charred peppers). Each outlet has a different menu for variety but the plain bagels with schmears are just as good.
Two Men Bagel House, multiple locations including Tanjong Pagar, Novena and Holland Village
Best American restaurants in Singapore: Burgers
Peer over our epic list of thicc, juicy burgers that’ll have you running to the nearest burger joint in no time.
25 Degrees Singapore
Know the precise temperature difference between a raw and well-done burger patty? The answer is in the name of this Los Angeles export that promises authentic American-style burgers done just right. Pop by for burgers, bacon-wrapped Sonoran hot dogs, pancakes, waffles and truly American sides. Psst: We hear these guys are a hit with Hollywood A-listers, too!
25 Degrees Singapore, Hotel G Singapore, 200 Middle Road, Singapore 188980
Burger Bar New York
If you’re no stranger to NYC, you’re probably well-acquainted with this burger institution. The Singapore outlet, hidden away in Gemmill Lane, brings to mind retro diners and unpretentious American fare. This simplicity works in its favour. By eschewing exotic sauces and even salt and pepper, you’re left with a burger that easily shows off the quality of its ingredients. The proof is in the first bite – from the crisp, fresh lettuce and onions to the generous portions of melty cheese and, of course, the all-beef patties (served at your choice of doneness; we recommend the medium).
Burger Bar New York, #01-03, 115 Amoy Street, Singapore 069935; enter through the back door on Gemmill Lane
Best American restaurants in Singapore: Cajun and soul food
Perfect for satisfying your chicken ‘n waffles, biscuits and gravy or Cajun-style seafood cravings.
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
Soaring amongst the elite establishments of MBS is Yardbird Southern Table & Bar set up by founder John Kunkel. Embarking on its first rodeo outside the US (its flagship is in Miami), this American restaurant sees the passing down of Kunkel’s grandmother’s southern recipes. Think tried-and-tested renditions of chicken and waffles, shrimp ‘n grits, buttermilk biscuits and other kitchen comforts.
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, #B1-07, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
The Beast
Inspired by the deep south’s bold flavours, this bourbon-focused bar offers greasy, good grub. We love its buttermilk chicken and waffles with bourbon maple butter sauce, blackened Cajun pork collar, and catfish and chips. Dining in a group of four? Go for the family-style meal with southern fried chicken, buffalo wings, cornbread, slaw, cajun fries, mac and cheese, and buttermilk waffles.
The Beast, 17 Jalan Klapa, Singapore 199329
Big Bern’s American Grill
We’d eagerly shake hands with Big Bern himself for incorporating a chunk of Louisianan culture into his all-American menu. Not only will you find Cajun-style meats here, but also an abundant showcase of one of Louisiana’s comfort foods. For centuries, the po’ boy is one sub sandwich that’s been part of the southern state’s heritage. And here, you can taste the tradition yourself with fried fish, black pepper chicken and cheesesteak sammies. Thank you, Big Bern!
Big Bern’s American Grill, Timbre+, 73A Ayer Rajah Crescent, Singapore 139957
The Boiler
Always trust a seasoned backyard cook to take care of the ravenous, food-longing masses. Finding joy in satisfying the appetites of friends and family, The Boiler’s owner eventually opened this Cajun-style seafood boil resto in 2008, spreading the love with pepper-buttered platters of Dungeness crabs, Boston lobsters, crawfish and clams. Another feature that catches our attention is the exceptional supply of Louisiana beer. Always a party at The Boiler!
The Boiler, multiple locations including Howard Road and Esplanade
Cajun on Wheels
Cajun on Wheels brings exclusivity to Louisiana and New Orlean’s soul flavours with a halal-certified menu. Now, everyone can enjoy Cajun boil buckets of Sri Lankan crabs, Boston lobsters, prawns, clams, mussels and more. There’s also a selection of Asian charcoal grill options with a spicy kicap manis sauce. Skip the cutlery – you’ll want to get your hands dirty for this!
Cajun on Wheels, multiple locations including Suntec City and Plaza Singapura
Best American restaurants in Singapore: Famous names from the US
There’s no need to book a flight to enjoy these iconic dishes now!
Five Guys
Back story: Five Guys was founded by the Murrel family in 1986 in Arlington, Virginia as a takeout burger joint. Today, you can have these burgers at one of the 1,600 locations across the globe – including our little red dot. Customise your hot dog buns, burgers and sandwiches with up to 15 toppings. For sides, there are Five Guys or Cajun-style fries and slurp-worthy milkshakes.
Five Guys, #01-32, Plaza Singapura, Orchard Road, Singapore 238839
Black Tap
The New York institution’s claim to fame may be its massive Crazy Shakes (think extravagant milkshakes that will hit you with a massive sugar rush), but the burgers are just as good. The thick, juicy stacks are griddled and loaded with mouth-watering fillings. Try Mexico City (prime burger with pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapenos, chipotle mayo and crispy onion ring) or The Greg Norman (half pound wagyu beef burger with house buttermilk dill, blue cheese and arugula). Save room for spicy Korean or Texan BBQ wings, plus sides like crispy brussels sprouts, buttermilk chicken tenders and fried pickles. Cue the food coma!
Black Tap, #L1-80, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Bay Level, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Shake Shack
Who can resist the iconic picture-perfect burgers and crinkle-cut fries from this burger joint? Ever since Shake Shack landed in Singapore in 2019, there’s been no stopping its expansion plans. Each outlet has a unique dish but no visit to the eatery is complete without trying the mainstays. Get messy with ShackBurger (the iconic cheeseburger) or SmokeShack (with applewood smoked bacon, chopped cherry pepper and ShackSauce). Vegetarians, we’re happy to report that the ’Shroom Burger is just as delish. The thick AF classic hand-spun shakes are also a must-try.
Shake Shack, multiple locations including Jewel Changi Airport, Neil Road and Orchard Road
Luke’s Lobster
Who else loves sinking your teeth into lobster rolls? You can now satisfy your cravings at Luke’s Lobster Singapore. Hailing from NYC’s East Village, this seafood shake has made its way to our shores with its sustainably sourced lobsters. You get a hefty amount of meat in a buttered bun, topped with lemon butter and secret seasoning. We suggest trying Luke’s Trio, a sampler of the lobster, crab and shrimp rolls, to taste it all.
Luke’s Lobster, #01-K4, Isetan Scotts, Shaw House, 350 Orchard Road, Singapore 238868
Other amazing American restaurants in Singapore
Told ya you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chophouse
For your fill of seafood from the East Coast, head to this classy spot in Chinatown. As its name implies, the selection of fresh, raw oysters is not to be missed. And don’t forget about the thick, creamy clam chowder, lobster pot pie and crab cakes. Meanwhile, meat lovers can dive into tender chops, ranging from kurobuta pork chop to prime ribeye. For dessert, find comfort in timeless treats like key lime pie, warm chocolate chip cookies with stout milkshake, and double chocolate fudge brownie served with a scoop of peanut butter ice cream. Delish!
Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House, multiple locations including Gemmill Lane and Orchard Road
Humpback
Opened by the folks behind Jigger and Pony, this Seattle-style joint serves plump, fresh oysters flown in from Hama Hama. Plus, small plates like octopus terrine, lemon scampi spaghetti, scallop ceviche and swordfish meatball. Fancy a tipple? Enjoy enticing concoctions like the savoury lobster Bloody Mary (spiced Ketel One vodka with lobster tomato juice and tail), and the fragrant chrysanthemum bee’s knees with Tanqueray gin, lemon, chrysanthemum honey and egg white.
Humpback, 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089834
The Market Grill
This snazzy, industrial chic restaurant has us salivating after its sizzling meats and naturally flavourful seafood. The buttery lobster and sinful burgers are top choices. For a unique take, try the bleu cheese burger that comes with sweet burnt onion marmalade and bacon sandwiched in a walnut raisin bun.
The Market Grill, 208 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068642
Manhattan
Evoking the swanky watering holes of NYC’s Great Gatsby era, Manhattan is the first bar in the world with an in-hotel rickhouse. It’s used to age bitters and single-cask cocktails, as well as store exquisite spirits. A special ingredients room also houses heaps of intriguing flavour enhancers, such as smoked sea salt and wild cherry bark. While most flock to the bar for its NYC-inspired cocktail menu, the modern bites are also worth a shout. Swing by the adults-only Sunday cocktail brunch for homemade bagels, freshly-shucked oysters, spiked milkshakes and a build-your-own Bloody Mary station.
Manhattan, Level 2, Regent Singapore, 1 Cuscaden Road, Singapore 249715
Sear
Steak served with a stunning view of Marina Bay… what’s not to like? Perched atop Singapore Land Tower, Sear prides itself in dishing out rich, marbled cuts of meat – tomahawk, porterhouse, ribeye, wagyu and more – cooked to a tee in European charcoal ovens. You can satiate your seafood cravings with oysters, caviar and other delicacies, too.
Sear, #45-01/02, Singapore Land Tower, 50 Raffles Place, Singapore 048623
Morganfield’s
Self-proclaimed as the “home of sticky bones”, it’s no surprise that Morganfield’s signature dish is fork-tender, rustic pork ribs. The classic, hickory wood-smoked version is coated in an addictive, cider-infused barbecue sauce. Char-grilled chicken, succulent pork chops, steaks and seafood round out the menu.
Morganfield’s, multiple locations including Vivocity, The Star Vista and Orchard Central
Spruce
Comforting Italian-American nosh is the main game at both of Spruce’s breezy outlets, with scrummy dishes like spicy wings, lamb shank, steak frites, beef cheek pappardelle and three-cheese macaroni.
Spruce, multiple locations including Phoenix Park and Firestation
Handlebar
Like your bars a little grungy or just need an excuse to slip into that old leather jacket? This one-of-a-kind biker-themed bar is a top spot for motorbike enthusiasts. But don’t worry, we promise they’re a friendly bunch. The bar also serves a selection of American classics and small bites to go with your jugs of beer.
Handlebar, 10 Lock Road, Singapore 108938
Mischief
Inspired by the food truck frenzy in the US, Mischief serves American street food with a twist. Gather your posse to share playful bites like buffalo wings, clams, burgers, grilled meats and brunch classics. If you’re here to pre-game, check out the tidy list of craft beers and cheeky cocktails.
Mischief, #01-12, Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802
Brace yourself for the meat sweats at these American restaurants in Singapore – it’s all worth it!
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