Eat

The Scenic Culinary Destination

Jewel Changi Airport is taking dining to a whole new level at an enchanting lush oasis.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Part futuristic dome, part theme park enveloped in a natural green environment, Jewel Changi Airport is Singapore's latest and most spectacular icon, and dining there is an enchanting experience that's almost part fantasy.

It's no surprise that Jewel has become a  culinary destination for foodies, particularly at its topmost level. This is where eight fashionable restaurants – Tanuki Raw, Burger & Lobster, Tiger Street Lab, Herit8ge, Prive, Rumours Bar & Grill, Arteastiq Bistro, and Aloha Poke – are located, serving up a host of eclectic and creative fare within a dazzling paradise garden.

Here on the fifth level is also where the most Instagrammable spot is – the sprawling Canopy Park comprising numerous oneof-a-kind attractions such as HSBC Rain Vortex and Shiseido Forest Valley that add to the memorable culinary outing.

 
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> From top Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Donburi.

A glass of classic Gin & Tonic.

GO JAPANESE

Tanuki Raw #05-202

The menu takes a modern approach to Japanese cuisine – one that packs a punch, with prices that are light on the pocket.

The must-try donburis: Jewel Truffle Gyu ($18, $23 with foie gras), featuring a generous serving of charcoalgrilled US short rib beef slices flavoured with truffle soy and black garlic teriyaki sauce, onsen egg, pickles, and panseared foie gras; and the Garlic Teriyaki Chicken ($15.90) – a delicious charcoalgrilled boneless chicken cutlet glazed with garlic teriyaki sauce, with onsen egg, pickles, shio konbu and chives over steamed rice.

You're in luck during Happy Hour – craft beers go for $10 per pint from 3 to 7pm, and a bowl of Tanuki's Jewelexclusive Prawn Cocktail is only $5 when you order an alcoholic drink.

To sweeten the deal, fresh raw oysters are going for just $2 each from 3 to 7pm daily. Over at Tanuki's The World is Flat bar, try the classic G&T or something adventurous like Vodka Milo ($12 per glass, $45 per carafe).
 
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> From left Both versions (L: steamed, R: grilled) of Original Lobsters.

Its Gin & Tonic comprises extra ingredients like juniper berries and rosemary, while its Lillemoni is made up of aperitif wine, grapefruit and tonic water.

Desserts include, Chocolate Jewels, Pistachio Tres Leches, and Mango Eaton Mess.

GET DOWN AND DIRTY:

Burger & Lobster #05-203

Expect a messy and fun affair, prying lobster meat from the shell and sinking your teeth into thick, juicy burgers.

The dining experience isn't just about the hearty entrees in its compact menu, but the big flavours that it's known for.

The Jewelexclusive, Sambal Glazed Lobster ($65) promises to give you an extra "kick". Or you can opt for the non-spicy, succulent Original Lobster ($65) that comes steamed or grilled, and glazed with clarified butter or lemon and garlic butter.

The Original Roll ($40) is a definite winner – the toasted brioche roll encases generous chunks of tasty lobster meat slathered in Japanese mayo and chives, giving it a unique salted crunch.

Take note, burger fans: The Mayfair ($25) and The Hot One ($25) each comes with a perfectly grilled Nebraskan patty for that wow factor. Or go for the vegan option, The Impossible Burger ($20).

Burger & Lobster will also impress diners with its wide variety of wines, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.
 
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From left Tigerinfused Crispy Baby Sotong.

Shrimps, Guacamole and Mango Salsa Flatbread.

QUINTESSENTIALLY LOCAL:

Tiger Street Lab #05-205

There's no better way to pair the worldfamous brew and street fare in style than at Tiger Street Lab – the first global concept by homegrown brand Tiger Beer.

Expect delectable fare like King Prawn White Beehoon ($18.80), and Tiger beer-infused Crispy Baby Sotong ($15.80). Dine on this special menu by Da Shi Jia, a 36-year-old zi char haven, from now till end April.

If you fancy something light, an all-day bar menu by Timbre X will tease your appetite with Shrimps, Guacamole, and Mango Salsa Flatbread ($16) and Truffle Fries ($10).

Wash down your meals with a glass of Jewel-exclusive seasonal beer ($13 for 300ml, $15 for 500ml) that changes once every three months. On the tap till end February is the refreshing Shiok Ale, a medium-bodied golden ale with sweet notes of pineapple and passion fruit.

Tiger Street Lab also promotes artists' works, offering merchandise such as T-shirts and totes created by Singapore designer Amos Ananda Yeo, and South Korean illustrator Mina Kwon.

JEWEL’S INSTA-MOMENTS

The Canopy Park

Stroll along the pretty garden trails at this indoor foliage wonderland.

Petal Garden

Marvel at the creative displays of seasonal flowers in every colour and shape from around the world.

Canopy Bridge

Be wowed by the bird’s eye view of Jewel from this bridge, which is suspended 23m above the ground, and sports a cool glass bottom.

Hedge Maze

Wander through Singapore's largest hedge maze, and take in the view of its intricate windings at the watch tower.

Visit www.jewelchangiairport.com for ticketing details and opening hours.

TEXT SEAN THAM