Whether you fancy wooing your date over a tender wagyu, or tucking into a T-bone while taking in sky-high views, we’ve rounded up the juiciest steak specialists in town.
Opus Bar & Grill
The scene:
The Opus vibe is all about clean lines, wooden finishes (even the Laguiole steak knives have sleek wooden handles), low lighting and upbeat music. It’s understandably popular with solo business travellers, corporate groups and a smattering of residents like us who’ve heard about the amazing food.
The steak:
Meat is taken very seriously here – hung in the Himalayan salt-tiled ageing cupboard until Chef decides the flavours and tenderness are right. The meat is then cut and cooked over the charcoal open-flame grill to create caramelised, smoky flavours. Rangers Valley Angus Op Ribs are the star of the show – the 800g rib is dry-aged for 14 to 36 days ($120 for two people). We weren’t feeling hungry enough to do it justice, so we opted for the Grainage Angus rib-eye ($58), cooked medium and served with a choice of sauces, plus the succulent Opus burger ($32), a thick wagyu beef patty with caramelised onion, bacon, Gruyere cheese and garlic mayonnaise; it’s one worth going back for.
The sides:
They seem to appear on almost every menu these days, but the truffle fries ($6) are to die for, as is the mac and cheese ($6); grilled asparagus ($6) added a green touch.
The best of the rest:
To kick off the meal, we shared the smoked buffalo mozzarella salad ($16), featuring the most divine heirloom tomatoes, charred fennel and cheeky hints of grapefruit, topped with aged Balsamic vinegar. For dessert, we had to try the chocolate dome ($14), and watch Chef pour runny, hot chocolate sauce over a dome of chocolate-covered ice cream, about the size of a tennis ball. The result? A delicious chocolate “soup” that we ate with spoons (and, I must confess, we licked the bowl).
The pairing:
Red wine is a must with steak, and there’s a great cellar here to explore. An Australian shiraz, Winner’s Tank ($22 glass/$88 bottle) was fullbodied, and a great accompaniment to the rib-eye.
– Katie Roberts
Tip! Look out for the great-value two-course ($58) and three-course ($78) set menus, and Opus’s new wine deal: with any order of Opus beef, enjoy two hours of free-flow sparkling, red and white wine from 7 to 9pm Sunday through Thursday, and 50 percent off select wines on Friday and Saturday
Opus Bar & Grill
Hilton Singapore, 581 Orchard Road
6730 3390 | singapore.hilton.com
Bistecca
The scene:
I last came to this well known steak restaurant five years ago and was keen to know if it was as good as I remembered. I’m pleased to report that, while Bistecca has moved (only just next door), the service, quality and provenance of the food remains – even on a Tuesday night it was packed to the rafters. It doesn’t try to be anything that it’s not: nothing overly trendy; just smart and simple, with straightforward décor that includes a scattering of leather and large pieces of animal art mounted on the walls (in keeping with its commitment to all things carnivore). We ate outside, at the front of the restaurant, which had a bit more buzz to it; however, if you’re in a big group, I’d opt for the air-conned interior. And we hear there’s a sweet courtyard area to try in the new digs, too.
The steak:
It’s most definitely all about the Fiorentina ($188), a whopping 1.1kg hunk of F1 Australian black wagyu, 420- days grain-fed, BMS 6+ beef, served on a solid wooden carving board. This is big enough for three, so if you’re going in a large group you can order a couple and position them down the middle of the table for all to share. The meat was stunningly cooked, perfectly pink – just the way we wanted it – and ready-carved, making serving a breeze. It came with the obligatory mustards and relishes to accompany “the beast.”
The sides:
We devoured a few: Tuscan fries with rosemary ($13), creamed spinach ($13), minced spicy sausage ($13) and chargrilled asparagus with extra virgin olive oil ($15) were all fine accompaniments to the main event.
The best of the rest:
There’s a surprising amount on offer for those less meatinclined. The burrata with Pachino tomatoes ($49) was gigantic and made for a fabulous looking (and tasting) starter. Again, the portions are big, so this could be an option as a main course. I’ve not tasted tomatoes this flavoursome on the island, ever! The cheese tore so easily and the entire dish was so simple and fresh. The pasta options are well thought out too; the tagliolini ($26) – squid ink pasta with blue crab and fennel – was insanely good and, again, an option (amongst the many) for those not into meat.
The sommelier is super knowledgeable and helped us select an easy-drinker in the form of the Vignamaggio Chianti Classico 2013 ($93), which hit the spot. But, before you hit the vino, go for one of the sizeable G&Ts served in a tallstemmed tumbler with an en vogue giant ice-cube to keep it nice and chilled; I tried the Botanist ($22), with orange and rosemary, which was rather on the strong side, but lasted a long, long time! – Emi Finch
Bistecca
26 Mohamed Sultan Road
6735 6739 | bistecca.com.sg
Artemis
The scene:
If you have somebody special that you want to wow, Artemis is the place. With to-die-for views of Marina Bay and the CBD, this fine-diner manages to be elegant without being stuffy. Unlike a lot of other places in Singapore, there is actually space between the tables so you get a little more privacy to whisper sweet-nothings or discuss that big business deal. The incredibly attentive wait staff and talented sommelier are as impressive as the stunning panorama outside the floor-to-ceiling windows. The service is hands-down the best I’ve had in Singapore.
The steak:
Artemis does its beef simply, letting the flavours of hormone-free, humanely-raised meat speak for itself. You can always tell good meat when it’s served raw, and the “Mey Selection” beef carpaccio ($28) and the steak tartare ($32) were among the best I’ve ever had. Ever. The Sanchoku waygu striploin ($92) was gorgeous, but the must-try here is the 45-day, dry-aged beef tenderloin ($62) served atop pureed potatoes with caramelised onions and red wine jus. I always scoff when people say steak melts in your mouth, but this truly perfect dish absolutely does.
The sides:
The twice-cooked crushed potato wedges ($14) with a harissa aioli was a sinfully delicious side. We also tried roasted heirloom cauliflower ($18) served with mustard creme fraiche emulsion, raisins and pine nuts – yum! The sommelier chose our wine pairing, which was spot on, making our meal sing.
The best of the rest:
Artemis does more than steaks – a lot more. The menu is like a who’s who of special occasion meals: lobster, crab, fish, pork, caviar, mouth-watering dessert — it’s all here and it’s all impressive. If it’s lunch you’re after, try the popular set lunch (two courses for $45, or three for $50). Don’t have time for a sit-down meal? Then check out the breezy outdoor bar, and sample one of their unique gin and tonic concoctions. One way or the other, go! – Melinda Murphy
Artemis
Level 40, CapitaGreen Rooftop, 138 Market Street
6635 8677 | artemisgrill.com.sg
CUT by Wolfgang Puck
The scene:
The sleek, contemporary décor – dim lighting, mirrored glass walls, floor-to-ceiling wine displays and close-up celebrity portraits – paired with impeccable service, creates a luxurious-chic feel; you can’t help but feel giddy walking through the door. Don’t miss having pre-dinner cocktails at the bar!
The steak:
They’ve got a solid steak selection (from $80), including Australian Angus, wagyu from the US, Australia and Japan, and Japanese A5 Kobe Beef from Hyogo Prefecture. My USDA Prime rib-eye (395g, $99) was absolutely fantastic.
The sides:
I couldn’t get enough of the caramelised sweet white corn with cipollini onions ($24), while my husband declared the “Peewee Potatoes” with garlic aioli ($18) the best potatoes he’s ever tasted. You also can’t go wrong with the sinful white cheddar mac and cheese ($22). And, for starters, don’t miss the insanely delicious (and very large) corn soup ($32) with duck confit, caramelised corn and mustard cream – it’s superb. The heirloom tomato salad with burrata cheese, white anchovy, basil oil and aged balsamic ($32) is also very tasty if you’re looking for a lighter option to kick off the meal.
The best of the rest:
While the steak’s fab, so is everything else. The whole roasted Maine lobster ($160 to $210) is absolutely incredible, as is the baby rotisserie chicken with chanterelle mushrooms ($48), which tastes like chicken marsala. The portions are very large (as they should be for the price!), so be prepared to split with your sweetie, or grab a group to share with. If you even have room for dessert, the Kaya “Baked Alaska” ($24; coconut cake, pandan ice cream and coconut sorbet with coffee crumble) is something different, and satisfied our sweet tooth without being overly rich. – Amy Greenburg
CUT by Wolfgang Puck
B1-71 (galleria level) The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue
6688 8517 | wolfgangpuck.com/dining/cut-singapore
Les Bouchons Rive Gauche
The scene:
Exuding understated elegance – with tables dressed in white tablecloths and paired with classic French rattan bistro chairs – Les Bouchons is part of the newly transformed Quayside, a vibrant yet laid-back riverside dining destination in Robertson Quay.
The steak:
We loved the grilled rib eye with “vigneron” butter ($39.80), which came well-marbled and as a generous portion; it was delicious, tender and oozing with flavour. You can also opt for the grilled sirloin steak with herbs ($39.80) or the extra tender beef fillet ($46), which was also divine. Coming in a daintier portion, the tenderloin was succulent and grilled to perfection. For something even heartier, order the giant “côte de bœuf” (prime rib) for two to share ($50 per person) that comes in at a whopping one kilogram.
The sides:
Mains come with unlimited homemade fries and a bowl of salad. The fries have just the right amount of saltiness and complement the grilled steaks perfectly.
The best of the rest:
We were definitely fans of the jumbo prawns ($46) grilled in olive oil – they come butterflied, and with a lovely smoky taste. Don’t want to order a steak? There’s salmon, lamb and sausage on offer, too. End your meal with crème brulée au grand marnier ($12), with a smooth custard and sweet caramel top, or cleanse your palate with some tangy lemon, raspberry and passionfruit sorbet ($14 for three scoops). – Lindsay Yap
Les Bouchons Rive Gauche
#01-02 The Quayside, 60 Robertson Quay
6733 4414 | lesbouchons.sg
Garang Grill
The scene:
You can expect a casual vibe at this neighbourhood spot, located along a row of old shophouses, and owned by New Ubin Seafood. Enjoy the evening breeze outside at the bar tables or dine in the air-conditioned dining room.
The steak:
There are three kinds of steaks to choose from, all USDA beef and cooked in a Mibrasa charcoal oven. Served with chargrilled baby corn and mustard, the prime rib-eye ($18/100gms) had just enough chew and char – the juices were sealed in, resulting in succulent and flavourful meat. You can dip it in some smoked sea salt for an extra oomph! There’s also the Angus beef short rib ($12/100g) and heavy-duty OP rib-eye (bone-in) coming in at 1 to 1.5kg ($14/100g).
The sides:
Accompanying each cut is the must-try Garang Rice, the grill’s take on New Ubin Seafood’s famous Heart Attack Fried Rice. It has a tinge of both sweetness and spiciness (from chili padi), and is fried with beef fat. We also sampled the grilled portobello mushroom ($8), which was surprisingly juicy. If you prefer some greens instead, pair your meat with the Garang Caesar salad ($14) or the Garang vegetable platter ($20), which offers a lovely mix of grilled asparagus, broccolini, tomatoes, peppers and baby corn.
The best of the rest:
We began our meal with the lemak mussels ($17); cooked just right, they came with generous slices of ciabatta in a bowl of spicy coconut gravy (similar to laksa). The grilled barramundi fillet ($26) was also enjoyable; with crisp skin and light meat, it paired well with the tomato chutney. We also ordered the barbecued tiger prawns ($29), which were served with tasty garlic and lime leaf butter. If you’ve worked up an appetite, order one of their hearty platters – the GG Red Platter ($178), which offers red meat such as steak and lamb, or the GG White Platter ($78), which comes with chicken and seafood.
A must-try is the sticky date pudding ($8) – we absolutely loved this moist and sweet treat, topped with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream. There are also desserts with a local twist such as the Mao Shan Wang crème brulée ($9), perfect for durian lovers. – Lindsay Yap
Garang Grill
15 Swan Lake Avenue
9245 0184 | ubinseafood.com/garang-grill
Wooloomooloo
The scene:
Despite the unusual meander through Raffles City mall to unearth this gem, the venue is surprisingly refined. The interior is sleek and luxurious, with a familiar steakhouse vibe – dim lights, hardwood floors, stacked firewood, and plush leather seats and booths. Snag a table with a view of the Padang and you’ve got yourself the ideal date-night spot.
The steak:
Though the menu boasts prime cuts from Idaho to Ireland, what Wooloomooloo really prides itself on is top-quality Aussie beef (and no, we’re not talking about Hugh Jackman). Start your evening Down Under with the Australian wagyu beef tenderloin carpaccio ($34). With a marble score of 4-5, thinly sliced and lightly finished with rocket, shaved Parmesan and seasoning, this is the perfect way to sample the butter-like consistency and flavour of wagyu beef in its purest form. For the main event, we recommend going medium-rare with the 12-ounce Australian rib-eye ($72) – 120-day grain fed and four-weeks wet-aged from Stanbroke, Queensland. Though this took the gold star for flavour, the 35-day, dry-aged Irish black Angus sirloin ($80) was a strong contender and perfect option for lean-lovers. All steaks come with a selection of jus, peppercorn, mushroom and red wine madeira sauces.
The sides:
We loved the aromatic flavour of nutmeg in the mashed potatoes ($16), while the mammoth grilled asparagus ($19) with hollandaise sauce paired very well with the steak.
The best of the rest:
Another Australian classic, the pavlova ($20) with Chantilly cream, fresh fruit and passionfruit coulis is a delectably sweet treat that doesn’t send you overboard. – Leanda Rathmell
Wooloomooloo
Level 3, Swissotel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Road
6338 0261 | woo-steakhouse.com
SKIRT
The scene:
SKIRT has the unique and funky W brand written all over it, only with a bovine twist. Think cowhide coasters, leather placemats, ornate bronze-coloured cutlery, horn-shaped salt and pepper shakers, and hundreds of glass horns hanging overhead. It was a mixed crowd on a Friday night; in addition to hotel guests, there were families with kids, couples on dates and local Sentosa residents.
The steak:
The action centres on the parrilla (a flame grill) in the open kitchen, which does justice to the great slabs of beef hung in the nearby glass-drying cupboard. Hailing from Australia, Japan, Ireland and the US, there are plenty of top-quality choices to keep meat lovers intrigued, from wagyu to grass-fed tenderloin to rib-eye and T-bone. The five-meat tasting platter ($250) shows off the depth of the selection of cuts and is the must try here. We were impressed with the tenderness of the different meats, and paired them with mustard and two special Skirt sauces; bone marrow croquets are served as an accompaniment.
The sides:
Our pick of sides was a delicious combination of truffled cream sweet corn ($15), garlic fries ($10) and grilled asparagus ($15).
The best of the rest:
Freshly baked bread arrived with a trio of butter, beef fat and chorizo oil. For starters, it had to be light, so we opted for oysters done two ways: Kilpatrick with melted cheese, and the unusual gin and cucumber served icy cold. For dessert, we followed the chef’s recommendation of torched bourbon Lardy cake with bourbon ice cream ($18) and a tangy lemon tart ($20). We paired our meal with an accompanying glass of a Californian cabernet sauvignon, The Great Flyte ($22 glass/$90 bottle). – Katie Roberts
SKIRT
W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way
6808 7278 | wsingaporesentosacove.com/skirt
Morton’s The Steakhouse
The scene:
Dining here is a decadent experience, perfect for a special occasion. Everything from the delicious food to the superb service reflects that of the original US-based, high-end Morton’s restaurant chain. We visited for our anniversary, and the Morton’s team made the night super special, even printing our names and a special message on our menu. Be sure to arrive early for pre-dinner drinks; the famous Morton’s happy hour, offered every day from 5pm to 7pm, includes six different “Mortinis” available for $15.95 each, and complimentary steak sandwiches are served to bar-goers.
The steak:
Steak lovers will definitely have trouble making up their minds here, with nine different steaks on offer including a centre-cut filet mignon, New York strip, porterhouse, Cajun rib-eye and five pepper corn rubbed prime strip. I went with the centre-cut prime rib-eye ($108/450g) and loved every bite!
The sides:
The splurge-worthy Parmesan and truffle matchstick fries ($25) are the perfect accompaniment to any steak. Or, go for the equally tasty sour cream and horseradish mashed potatoes ($25). The flavourful, sautéed Brussels sprouts with bacon ($23) are an excellent choice, too.
The best of the rest:
This place does seafood just as well as its steak, so non-meat eaters are in for a treat, too. My husband loved his Chilean sea bass ($78), one of the many seafood mains available. Whether you order steak or not, definitely start your meal with a Morton’s Prime Ocean Platter for sharing. The chilled seafood platter ($92 to $276) comes with Maine lobster, jumbo shrimp cocktail, jumbo lump crabmeat, Alaskan king crab legs and oysters; there’s a baked version ($87 to $261) as well, with bacon-wrapped scallops. Though Morton’s lava cake is the signature dessert, we opted for the lighter chocolate soufflé for two ($38; other flavours include lemon meringue, raspberry and Grand Marnier), and it was the perfect sweet treat to end our heavy meal. – Amy Greenburg
Tip! Morton’s has a three-course Sunday set lunch for $65, served from 12 noon to 3pm. Choose from starters like lobster bisque, baked onion soup, Caesar salad and centre-cut iceberg – or add $10 for the colossal shrimp or Maine lobster cocktail. Then, move onto mains like short rib Bolognese and honey balsamic-glazed salmon, or add $15 to $35 for a centre-cut filet, slow-roast prime rib or centre-cut prime rib-eye.
For dessert, choose between key lime pie and double chocolate mousse, or top up $8 for the legendary hot chocolate cake. Sunday wine specials include Pebble Lane Monterey County (2014) pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay for $75 a bottle, and Tattinger Brut Epernay NV for $99 a bottle. Morton’s full à la carte menu can also be ordered on Sundays from 12 noon to 9pm.
Morton’s The Steakhouse
Level 4, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, 5 Raffles Avenue
6339 3740 | mortons.com/singapore
Looking for something a bit different? Try Peruvian
This article first appeared in the October 2017 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
