Alexandra has quietly been earning a reputation for itself as one of the best places to dine at for local dishes. Many people regard the area as the best place to go for laksa in Singapore, and with the likes of the Alexandra Village Food Court, ABC Brickworks, the Queensway Shopping Centre and the recently opened Central Mall all near one other, the choice on offer is nothing short of phenomenal.
That isn’t the whole story however. International cuisine in the area is not limited to meatball dishes in Ikea, although in recent years that is the side of Alexandra’s culinary identity that has shone through most. Here are a handful of some of the most exciting places to eat in the area.
Aqua Luna
Located on the 7th floor of the Park Hotel Alexandra, the four-star hotel next door to the Central Mall, this elegant rooftop bar brings a piece of the CBD into the heart of Alexandra – without the crowds or crazy prices.
Aqua Luna
Initially, people come to Aqua Luna for the chilled vibe, the Al Fresco setting and a chance to watch the sun go down over their favourite neighbourhood – not to mention the 25-metre infinity pool – but it is the variety of the cocktails, and the quality of the food that keeps them coming back.
It serves all your favourite gastro bar fare such as pizzas from its wood-fired oven and succulent steaks but they are often done with a unique twist. In season oysters are also a crowd pleaser.
Carvery
On the same floor as Aqua Luna, there is a carvery with a more extensive but no less imaginative menu.
Stew Küche
This German styled eatery has been delighting locals and visitors alike for years, and offers authentic Bavarian cuisine in a kopitiam setting. From its prime position on the corner of the Alexandra Village Food Centre, the incredibly popular restaurant also acts as the beer garden for the area, serving a good selection of mainly German brewed lagers and beers, and something that very much adds to the atmosphere – and queues, at peak times.
Stew Küche
The star of the show is the food however, with the pork knuckle taking centre stage. Its crispy skin combined with tender, juicy meat are a real winner, and are a great introduction to this fabulous and unique style of cooking.
KEK – Keng Eng Kee Seafood
For those whose idea of heaven is a quality and reliable tze char then Keng Eng Kee Seafood – known locally as simply KEK – is incredibly hard to beat. This family run restaurant has been serving up immaculate dishes for decades, and has expanded over the years into the large, two-unit restaurant it occupies today at the other end of the food centre from Stew Küche.
KEK
As well as a large open area with many tables, it also has a smaller air conditioned area that is perfect for parties, large groups, or anyone wanting to enjoy superb wok-cooked food without the distraction of 40 degree temperatures.
It is hard to pick a favourite from the extensive menu, but if you only going to go once, you shouldn’t leave without sampling the Moonlight Hor Fun.
The Naked Finn
One of the most exciting additions on the Singapore art scene of recent years was the renovation of Gillman Barracks, which is home to several prestigious galleries. It isn’t just art where the former military camp excels though, as more and more restaurants are moving into the area, making it a destination for culture and culinary lovers alike.
Naked Finn
Top of the list of restaurants is The Naked Finn. With a philosophy that revolves around high quality ingredients, cooked simply with a minimum of additional flavours that could detract from the natural tastes of the dishes. It has quickly earned a reputation for producing stunning, predominantly seafood, dishes.
Fook Seng Goldenhill Chicken Rice
We can finally put to bed the longest running argument in Singapore, namely where you can get the best chicken rice on the island?
Fook Seng Goldenhill chicken rice
Tucked away in the quiet and unassuming Jalan Rumah Tinggi estate, Ronnie, the owner of Fook Seng has been going about his business for years, delighting customers with his old-school version of the nation’s favourite dish.
The sign over the counter says “Probably the best chicken rice in Singapore.” We think they’re probably right.
