Mention the MICHELIN Guide and most foodies would think of the starred dining establishments which represent the epitome of dining standards, while the Bib Gourmand is known for seeking out good cuisine at a reasonable price (under $45 in Singapore).
However, the MICHELIN inspectors cover a wider scope of eateries, which are also listed in the red guide. Some of them have been recognised with the Michelin Plate accolade. First introduced in the 2016 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Paris, the Michelin Plate, or L’assiette in French, represents “Fresh ingredients, carefully prepared; a good meal”.
The accolade is represented by the symbol of a fork and knife next to a plate. In this year’s MICHELIN Guide Singapore, a total of 150 restaurants, spanning Asian, Italian, French and innovative cuisines, have been given Plate status.
1. Gaig
This relaxed and friendly restaurant is run by the same family as its namesake in Barcelona. It serves Catalan dishes prepared the same way as they were back in the 19th century, such as cannelloni and quail Alcántara-style. The chef shops for the best produce in local markets three times a week. The wine menu has a great Spanish selection at very reasonable prices. Make sure you finish up with their unmissable Catalan crème brûlée.
2. Akira Back
Named after the chef himself and decorated with his mother's paintings, it champions a communal dining concept with dishes meant for sharing among friends. The menu shows strong Korean and Japanese influences, while ingredients are flown in from around the world. His specialities include AB pizza, AB tacos, Perfect Storm and Brother From Another Mother. Sake lovers should try Nanbu Bijin, exclusively available here.
3. Ginza Rokukakutei
The first outpost outside Japan of its famed namesake in Osaka adheres to the same standard of meticulous care and food quality as its flagship, but with one difference — the skewers here are fried in rice bran oil instead of beef tallow or lard. The ingredients are imported from Hokkaido and the skewers are spun to remove any excess oil. Where it differs is that wine pairing is available.
4. Gattopardo
The restored shophouse complements nicely the old world charm of the dining room. The Sicilian chef is keen to let people know all about Sicily and seafood is his speciality. Half of the menu changes quarterly while signature dishes such as seafood stew in a terracotta pot and red shrimp black truffle ravioli stay on; the lunch set menu rotates weekly. Diners also come for the salt-baked fish with tableside service, and the homemade pasta.
5. Majestic
Reopened in 2018 at this location, the airy dining room sits under a glass roof and overlooks a garden. The food combines modern techniques with time honoured traditions and is exquisite in both taste and appearance. Try the dim sum, hor fun noodles made in house or Hakka ginger wine chicken soup with no water added. Business diners can opt for items in individual servings. Reservations a week ahead are recommended.
6. Kappo Shunsui
It's not just about reserving a table if you want to sample its authentic omakase menu and its wonderful selection of over 80 different sakes, you also need to find this restaurant —- its secretive entrance has no sign, just a frosted glass door and a bell. The chef is serious about every detail — even the dashi is made daily with kombu from Shiretoko and mineral water. A luxury menu is available upon pre-order five days ahead.
7. 28 Wilkie
The elegant and comfortable dining room was styled and designed by the owner's wife. It boasts its own brand of caviar from its farm in China, and its own range of balsamic and olive oils; it also has an exclusive brand of Austrian vodka and an excellent selection of beer and wine. The signature dish from the Italian menu features a wagyu dish using only meat from 26-month-old females for its extra tenderness. No corkage fee.
8. The Dempsey Cookhouse & Bar
A place to see and to be seen, this restaurant in a heritage building targets the segment of the market somewhere between fine and casual dining. The elegant all-white interior pays homage to the city's colonial past. Besides signature dishes from the Jean-Georges group, new creations with an Asian twist are also served. Try its truffle fontina pizza from the cherry and apple wood oven, and its signature caviar selection. Reservations recommended.
