I’d wager that every few minutes these days, you have to listen to someone bemoaning the lack of things to do in Singapore now that travel is out of the question. Either that, or you’re the melancholy one.
There, there, this time will pass. Meanwhile, there’s still the latest additions to the bustling Paya Lebar streetscape to explore. Pop by Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ), a mixed-use precinct that spans two adjacent plots of land with a myriad of retail, dining and entertainment options. It includes the snazzy PLQ Mall for a retail fix, the sheltered PLQ Plaza for a quick bite, and PLQ Parkside for exciting al fresco dining options.
With the turn of the year teasing our fingertips, here are 6 dining spots at PLQ for you to spend quality time with your loved ones while pretending you’re on holiday.
1. Tipsy Bird
Indulge in a relaxed and casual meal at Tipsy Bird at PLQ Plaza for a range of playful fusion options and drinks.

Whether you’re here for brunch or dinner, they’ve got something to satisfy the hunger pangs. Diners can also look forward to the possibility of enjoying live music during their meals when social-distancing regulations ease.
True to their Tipsy Collective brand, Tipsy Bird brings a wide selection of cuisines united in dishes of refined harmony, such as the Szechuan Mala Karaage (S$18 for two tapas dishes).
These crispy nuggets have a pleasant kick without overwhelming the palate with a mind-numbing inferno. The Szechuan Mala Karaage is a good sharing option for those avoiding vulnerability, such as tears and gasps for water.
For a richer, deeper flavour, the Wagyu Beef Cubes (S$18) are juicy morsels of decadence. Paired with black pepper sauce, each bite will have you reaching for more. Just remember not to fight with your dining companions—you’re here for precious quality time.
One of Tipsy Bird’s best creations, in my opinion, is their Moonlight Truffle Beef Hor Fun (S$23). This smooth and moreish broth is matched in tenderness by the strips of Wagyu striploin beef. Slurping each mouthful is such a delight.
If you enjoy a good fried carrot cake, the XO White Radish Cake (S$12) takes this classic dish to a new level of extra with XO sauce, garlic crumbs and sakura ebi. While the original can sometimes end up tasting a little uniform, Tipsy Bird will reinvigorate your interest with their clever topping additions.
Round off the meal with Tipsy’s Burnt Cheesecake (S$10). This warm and gooey cake pairs comfortingly well with a scoop of ice cream. It’ll definitely be all smiles at your table after dessert.
Expected Damage: S$12 – S$28 per pax
PLQ Plaza, #01-08
+65 8879 6057
12pm – 10.30pm (Daily during Phase 2/3); Operating hours may change with updates to Covid-19 regulations Facebook | Instagram | Website
2. TungLok Seafood
Located on the third floor of PLQ Mall, TungLok Seafood is the spot to bring your seafood-loving friends and family. With the freshest ingredients and friendly table service, enjoy a lovely, worry-free evening with your loved ones.
One highlight here is their Oven-baked Coffee Pork Rib with Almond Flakes (S$18++), which boasts the strong bitter aroma of coffee intermingled with sweetness.
This infrastructure of a dish is so artfully plated that it feels like a crime to tear into it. But tear into it we will. Intersperse each bite with an almond flake so you get a taste of what elevated flavour combinations feels like.
Another popular favourite lies in the Braised Rice Vermicelli with Seafood (S$24++), boasting silky noodles and a generous serving of seafood in a milky broth.
End on a refreshing Chilled Mango Cream with Pomelo and Sago (S$6++). With that juicy slice of fresh mango perched on your glass edge and a stretch of imagination, you could picture yourself on a hot tropical holiday.
Expected Damage: S$24 – S$30 per pax
ChopeDeals: Save 10% at TungLok Seafood >
PLQ Mall, #03-09/10
+65 6909 8933
11.30am – 3pm & 6pm – 10.30pm (Mon to Sat), 10am – 3pm & 6pm – 10.30pm (Sun & PH)
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3. The Providore
The Providore, above everything, impresses with their consistency. With every visit, I’ve left with the same feeling of satisfaction at their beautiful dishes and efficient service. Located at PLQ Plaza, this outlet does not disappoint.
The Pan Seared Barramundi (S$31.50) is an extravagant dish of citrusy fish perched on a bed of Mexican rice.
Imagine you’re at the beach as you sit at their high tables in the al fresco dining area while sipping on a glass of Signature Iced Tea (S$9.50). With the tranquil leafy foliage surrounding the area, it’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
The cakes at The Providore certainly deliver in the aesthetics department. On top of that, the Yuzu Souffle Cheesecake (S$8.50) comes through with a soft and understated citrusy taste.
Expected Damage: S$12 – S$33 per pax
PLQ Plaza, #01-01
+65 6221 7056
8am – 10.30pm (Mon to Fri), 9am – 10.30pm (Sat & Sun)
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4. elemen 元素
elemen 元素 dedicates itself to enriching the well-being of their customers with natural and earthy recipes. With an impressive meatless menu, this is not your typical establishment that leaves you feeling like something is missing.

This restaurant is a great place to impress your loved ones with the life-changing epiphany that food can be fun and flavourful without meat. To start everyone off, try the Wild Mushroom and White Truffle Pizza (S$17.80). The white truffle oil and juicy mix of portobello and shiitake mushrooms create an earthy topping for the cream-based thin crust pizza.
It might be carb-heavy, but be careful not to forget yourself and finish this before the other dishes arrive.

They really know how to spoil their patrons with truffle, as with the Claypot Truffle Fried Rice (S$16.80). Bring a generous portion of heartiness to your meal with this hot and fragrant dish.

For a lighter bite, the Tempura Tofu with Avocado Roll (S$15.80) will do the trick. Get this if you’re looking for a dish that can fill you up without feeling too overwhelming.

Here, every creation is as much about art as it is a dish to satiate your senses, right down to the beverage selection. Try the Iced Coconut Mint with Butterfly Pea Flower (S$4.80) for a visual and gastronomical experience.
Expected Damage: S$13 – S$20 per pax
PLQ Mall, #03-13
+65 6503 2533
11.30am – 4pm & 5.30pm – 10pm (Daily)
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5. ChaTraMue
If you’re staying in for your home party this year-end, amp up your pot-luck game with ChaTraMue’s refreshing Thai tea.
ChaTraMue is a great option for those who love a cup of invigorating iced tea with their favourite toppings.

Keep things exciting with their new Rose Tea Series. Drum up the year-end spirit with your loved ones over their Lime Lychee Rose Tea (S$6.20) or a Honey Rose Tea (S$6.20).
If you’re preferring a more subdued flavour that day, you can also opt for the Rose Milk Tea (S$6.20) for a simple refreshment.

Other than that, their classic menu offerings are also a safe bet for those seeking a cooling break from the heat. With their signature Thai Milk Tea (S$3.80 for iced; S$3.20 for hot) and Thai Tea Soft Serve (S$3.20), there’s something to satisfy any mood.
Expected Damage: S$3.20 – S$6.20 per pax
PLQ Plaza, #01-38
10am – 9.30pm (Daily)
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6. HIBIKI Sake Bar & Dine
For those who enjoy a good selection of sake (Japanese rice wine) and fine Japanese food, Japanese-owned HIBIKI Sake Bar & Dine is for you. Located at PLQ Parkside, this restaurant constantly attracts a regular clientele along with new faces.

Whether you’re a connoisseur of hot sake, cold sake, or a beginner to both, HIBIKI Sake Bar & Dine welcomes you. Choose from a generous selection of sakes such as the Yamanashi Shichiken Birodonoaji Junmai Ginjyo (S$13 per glass; S$48 per carafe) and Shizuoka Hatsukame Ginjyo (S$40 per carafe).

To go with that, enjoy scrumptious skewer dishes like the Mochi Buta Maki (S$2.80), which are grilled Japanese rice cakes wrapped in pork belly, or the Tebasaki (S$3.50), which are grilled chicken wings.

Something about small dishes and alcohol seems to create the perfect setting for a casual catch up with loved ones.
You can also look forward to heavier options here, such as the Ocha zuke (S$6 – S$8) for a homely and comforting meal. This dish of steamed rice in hot plum or seaweed broth will also pair well with your choice of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) or shake (salmon).
Expected Damage: S$25 – S$40 per pax
PLQ Parkside, #01-07
+65 6909 9986
12pm – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 12am (Daily)
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Paya Lebar Quarter holds a world of dining and retail possibilities in their indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking for a casual alfresco brunch or an elegant restaurant dinner, you’ll find something suitable here.
There’s always something interesting going on at any of the zones across Paya Lebar Quarter, at all times of the day. When you’ve had your fill of delicious nosh, catch some retail therapy with the likes of H&M, Footlocker, Tokyu Hands, HOUZE, UNIQLO and Scoop Wholefoods.
With so much going on at such a lively spot, stay up-to-date by liking and following Paya Lebar Quarter on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Follow the eateries’ social media pages for updates on their store operating hours as Covid-19 regulations change. You can also sign up as a Lendlease Plus member for additional perks via their website or the Lendlease Plus mobile app.
Travel here with even more accessibility with the Grab rides promo code ‘PLQ3OFF’ to enjoy S$3 off (min. S$6nett fee) to PLQ.
As we approach the turn of the year, celebrate the festive season and herald in a better year to come with your loved ones by reconnecting and dining together at the many options available at Paya Lebar Quarter.
*This post is brought to you in partnership with Paya Lebar Quarter.
Paya Lebar Quarter
10 Paya Lebar Road , Singapore 409057
Paya Lebar Quarter
10 Paya Lebar Road , Singapore 409057