The highly anticipated Michelin Guide Singapore 2023 ceremony took place at the Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay, celebrating the city’s finest culinary establishments. While there were no new additions to the two- and three-star categories, this year’s guide recognized notable restaurants, including Seroja, which earned its first Michelin star and Singapore’s inaugural Green star. With a total of 55 establishments receiving stars, the ceremony highlighted both established favorites and exciting newcomers in Singapore’s vibrant dining scene.
Retained Stars and Notable Changes
Renowned restaurants such as Odette, Les Amis, and Zen maintained their prestigious three Michelin-star ranking. The two Michelin-starred establishments also held onto their distinctions, except for Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro, which moved to the one-star category. Among the 46 restaurants awarded one star, five new entrants stood out: Born, Poise, Sushi Sakuta, Willow, and Seroja, a contemporary Malaysian eatery.
Notable Omissions
Sadly, three restaurants did not appear in this year’s list. Basque Kitchen by Aitor, which has since closed, Reve, and Shang Palace at the Shangri-La Singapore hotel are no longer featured. Nevertheless, the recognized chefs and teams remain dedicated to evolving and refining their culinary approaches.
Special Awards and Recognition
The ceremony also highlighted remarkable individuals in the industry. Head chef Araki Takeshi of Esora expressed his gratitude for retaining the one Michelin star and emphasized the team’s continuous efforts to enhance their culinary approach. Tristin Farmer, executive chef of Zén, emphasized the importance of work-life balance and sustainability, stating that taking care of the team contributes to the restaurant’s long-term success. Head chef Kevin Wong of Seroja was visibly moved when receiving the Young Chef Award, and his restaurant further secured Singapore’s first Green Star, recognizing its commitment to sustainability alongside culinary excellence.
New Format and Vibrant Atmosphere
Unlike previous years, the ceremony embraced a more informal cocktail format, allowing guests and chefs to mingle freely before and after the event. Live food stations showcased the cuisine of Michelin-starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected establishments, featuring a diverse range of culinary delights.
Recognitions Beyond Michelin Stars
In addition to the Michelin star accolades, 79 food establishments received the Bib Gourmand distinction, highlighting their consistent delivery of value-for-money meals under S$45. This included 17 new hawker center stalls and two restaurants, Kok Sen and The Coconut Club. The Michelin Selected list expanded with the inclusion of 33 new establishments, totaling 152. Notable additions included Rempapa, Mustard Seed, and Lolla, each offering unique culinary experiences.
Conclusion
The Michelin Guide Singapore 2023 ceremony showcased the city’s thriving culinary scene and recognized the talent, creativity, and dedication of its chefs and restaurants. From long-established favorites to exciting newcomers, each recognized establishment demonstrated excellence in their craft. With an emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and exceptional dining experiences, Singapore’s gastronomic landscape continues to evolve and captivate both locals and visitors alike.
Also learn about The Evolution of Singapore’s Food Culture: From Hawker Centers to Michelin Stars.
