The scorching heat of July isn't just confined to the weather; it's sizzling in the kitchens, grills, and cocktail shakers all over town. This month's lineup of newly opened establishments in Singapore offers a diverse and delectable array of culinary experiences, from Michelin-starred chefs putting a modern spin on traditional dishes to soulful taquerías and even tofu transformed into gelato.

Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely lunch, an edgy dinner, or a post-museum drink, these fresh additions to the dining scene are poised to satisfy both your curiosity and your cravings.

Shin Katsu

A sophisticated interpretation of Japan's beloved comfort food, Shin Katsu has arrived in Tanjong Pagar as a premium tonkatsu destination led by Chef Matsubayashi Masato, formerly of Ma Maison. This elegant establishment brings over 15 years of tonkatsu expertise to the table, featuring globally sourced pork varieties such as marbled Hungarian Mangalica and US Kurobuta.

Signature dishes like the Mille-Feuille Black Truffle Katsu and the 3-in-1 Shin Katsu Combo showcase a blend of innovation and tradition. Each set includes charcoal-grilled rice, miso soup, pickles, and cabbage, complemented by a selection of kushi katsu and Japanese desserts. Shin Katsu stands out among the newly opened restaurants in Singapore for its depth and commitment to culinary excellence.

• 84-86 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088505

• Daily: 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-10pm

• @shinkatsu.sg | shinkatsu.sg

Cherry Garden by Chef Fei

Mandarin Oriental's renowned Cantonese restaurant has reopened with a fresh approach as Cherry Garden by Chef Fei. The two-Michelin-starred chef, known for his culinary mastery in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Beijing, now brings his refined take on Cantonese-Teochew cuisine to Singapore.

Expect a harmonious fusion of traditional recipes and contemporary interpretations in an elevated dining space that pays homage to tradition with a modern touch. Known for its exquisite dim sum brunches and impeccable service, the revamped restaurant aims to set a new standard for refined Chinese dining in Marina Bay.

• 5 Raffles Avenue, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Singapore 039797

• Mon-Sun, 12pm-2:30 pm | 6pm-10 pm

• @mo_singapore | mandarinoriental.com

Thevar 2.0

Singapore's only two-Michelin-starred modern South Indian restaurant has reopened at Mohamed Sultan Road, ushering in a new era of elevated spice-driven cuisine. Under the guidance of Chef Mano, Thevar 2.0 offers a deeply personal culinary experience, with interiors inspired by his South Indian heritage and Malaysian upbringing.

Signature dishes like the Mysore Spiced Rack of Lamb make a comeback, alongside new creations that reflect Chef Mano's classical French training and global influences. Guests can expect refined layers of flavor in a minimalist, Chola-inspired setting, along with an extensive wine selection and curated non-alcoholic pairings. Whether dining in the main hall or at the exclusive Chef's Table, Thevar 2.0 showcases the evolution of culinary art.

• 16 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 238965

• Tue-Fri: 6pm-11pm, Sat: 12pm-3pm & 6pm-11pm (Closed Mon & Sun)

• @thevar.sg | thevar.sg

Fi Woodfire Thai

Reviving Orchard Road's dining scene, Fi Woodfire Thai makes a fiery return at Shaw Centre. Touted as Singapore's first woodfire Thai concept, this revamped venue features an open kitchen centered around a 450°C lychee wood oven. Chef Arom Eploi's menu highlights bold dishes like the tender "Moo Ping" Pork Rib and flame-kissed Sticky Rice Cake, alongside French Poulet with housemade chicken liver jaew.

Diners can indulge in vibrant plates such as the Grilled Green Mango Salad and Son-in-Law Eggs with strawberry tamarind glaze. Pair your meal with a Thai-inspired cocktail like the Tom Yum Mule or Sabai, and end on a sweet note with desserts like the butterfly pea Mango Sticky Rice. A feast for both the eyes and the palate.

• Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd, #03-14/15, Singapore 228208

• Daily: Lunch 11:30am-3pm, Dinner 5pm-10pm (Last order 9.30pm)

• @fi.woodfire | fi-woodfire.com

Tofu Gelato

Singapore's first tofu gelato shop has made its debut, offering a fresh take on frozen desserts. Tofu G at Mandarin Gallery provides a minimalist, Korean-inspired haven for guilt-free indulgence. Using traditional tofu-making techniques, this innovative concept churns out high-protein, dairy-free gelato made from non-GMO soybeans and real ingredients like roasted black sesame, Chodang sweet corn, and Korean sweet potato.

The vegan-friendly gelato is freshly made on-site using a Live Churning Machine, ensuring optimal texture and flavor in every scoop. Whether you opt for the silky Original Tofu Gelato or the nutty Pistachio flavor, Tofu G delivers a refreshing and photogenic treat that's as nourishing as it is visually appealing, making it a delightful surprise in the newly opened Singapore dining scene.

• #02-21 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road, Singapore 238897

• Daily: 11am-10pm

• @tofug.sg

il Giardino

Nestled within the iconic conservation house of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, il Giardino offers a lush Italian escape inspired by nature's abundance and Venetian cicchetti traditions. Launched in celebration of the Gardens' 10th Unesco anniversary, this biophilic space combines rustic charm with Singaporean hospitality.

Chef Felix Chong presents vibrant sharing plates such as the Slow Braised Osso Bucco with kaffir lime gremolata and Panzanella 'Singapura' with green mango and smoked tamarind vinaigrette. Enjoy these dishes with nature-inspired cocktails like the Giardino Spritz or Under the Tuscan Sun. Whether it's a romantic date night or a garden wedding, il Giardino promises an Italian dining experience infused with botanical elegance, all under the serene canopy of rustling Tembusu trees.

• Level 2, The Garage, 50 Cluny Park Road, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 257488

• Wed-Fri: 6pm-10pm, Sat-Sun: 5pm-10pm (Last order 9:30pm)

• @ilgiardino.sg | ilgiardino.sg

Jin Ting Wan

Perched on the 55th floor of Marina Bay Sands, Jin Ting Wan emerges as a new destination for refined Cantonese cuisine under the leadership of Executive Chef Albert Li. Scheduled to launch on July 23, the restaurant offers a modern interpretation of Yue culinary heritage, featuring dishes like Roasted Duck with Black Pepper and Drunken Mantis Shrimp with Chinese Celtuce.

With interiors that blend oriental motifs with modern minimalism, Jin Ting Wan invites diners on a sensory journey, complete with a traditional Gong Fu-style tea ceremony curated by Tea Master Zhao Gang. Indulge in a curated menu of dim sum, seasonal delicacies, and rare Chinese liquors, all served with precision and hospitality.

• Level 55, Hotel Tower 1, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

• Daily: Lunch & Dinner (Exact hours TBC)

• @JinTingWanSG | marinabaysands.com/JinTingWan

Papi's Tacos (Tyrwhitt Road)

Papi's Tacos arrives in Jalan Besar with its fourth taquería, bringing street-style Mexican flair to a vibrant new neighborhood. Helmed by Chef Jose "Papi" Espinoza, this 60-seater venue pays homage to bold flavors and genuine hospitality. Guests can enjoy popular tacos and burritos, as well as exclusive offerings like Duck Confit Tostaditas and Braised Beef Tongue Tacos.

A must-try Grilled Cactus & Broccolini Salad and a dedicated Kids' Menu cater to families. Don't miss the extended Happy Hour (12-7pm) featuring $10++ drinks and rotating Frozen Margarita flavors. With lively music, an extensive mezcal selection, and Papi's signature charm, this Jalan Besar location hits all the right notes.

• 149 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207562

• Tue-Sun: 12pm-2:30pm (Lunch), Tue-Sat: 5pm-11pm (Dinner, till late on weekends)

• @papistacossg | papis-tacos.com

Korio (Bugis)

The beloved sandwich destination Korio opens a second outpost in Bugis, partnering with Zouk Group to launch a full-service dine-in venue at Guoco Midtown II. Known for its New York-style grilled sandwiches and slow-proofed brioche doughnuts, this new space combines street-style vibes with culinary precision. As a favorite spot for breakfast and lunch, Korio offers a flavorful experience without the fuss.

New menu additions include a robust Brisket Sandwich with a horseradish kick and a hearty BLT topped with avocado and jalapeño ranch. Fans of all-day breakfast can still enjoy classics like the Sausage & Egg or Grilled Cheese with caramelized onions. Indulge in the Honey Sea Salt Doughnut and the Sparkling Orange Espresso for a fun caffeine fix.

• 20 Tan Quee Lan Street, #01-21, Guoco Midtown II, Singapore 188107

• Daily: 8am-5pm

• @koriosg | korio.atlas.kitchen

Alice Boulangerie (Raffles City)

Alice Boulangerie's latest venture at Raffles City introduces Fine Crumbs, a delightful bakery concept that reimagines Asia's gourmet bun trend with French precision and whimsical creativity. Enjoy soft, chewy buns made using the Japanese Yudane method, filled with enticing options like slow-braised Angus short ribs, mentaiko prawn, and mochi-stuffed black sesame.

Aside from the buns, the expanded bistro menu surprises with offerings such as Wagyu Tartare, Scallop Crudo, and charcoal-grilled spring chicken with sambal cincalok. Set in a charming space blending cottagecore aesthetics with contemporary design, this 100-seater venue provides a dreamy escape in the heart of the city.

• #01-22A, Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179103

• Mon-Sun: 9:30am-10:30pm (Fine Crumbs bakery closes at 5:30pm)

• @aliceboulangeriesg | aliceboulangerie.sg

If you're still catching up from June, no worries; July is here with a fresh lineup of culinary offerings waiting to be explored. From woodfire wonders and Cantonese revivals to dairy-defying tofu gelato, there's no better time to embark on a gastronomic journey through the newly opened restaurants in Singapore.