Robertson Quay & River Valley

Robertson Quay and River Valley sit on the upper reaches of the Singapore River, a quieter, largely residential stretch of riverside restaurants, converted warehouses and side streets such as Mohamed Sultan Road. New Bahru on Kim Yam Road is a short walk away.

Restaurant JAG, inside STPI on Robertson Quay, holds one Michelin star for cooking built around seasonal vegetables and Alpine herbs, with a strong cheese trolley. Lerouy on Mohamed Sultan Road also has one star and serves surprise menus at an open-kitchen counter. Brasserie Gavroche, on the same road, cooks family recipes from onion soup to Dover sole meunière. Les Bouchons Robertson Quay has served steak frites with free-flow fries since 2002, and Le Clos in New Bahru pairs a cellar of 2,000-plus labels with tarte flambée and Josper-grilled meats.

Book JAG and Lerouy well ahead. The riverside promenade is pleasant for a walk between dinner and drinks. Fort Canning and Great World MRT stations are the nearest. Expect fine-dining prices at the starred rooms and mid-range to upscale bills elsewhere.