This year, Singaporeans can finally look forward to an extravagant National Day celebration after two years of pandemic-induced restrictions. Expect the annual National Day Parade, taking place at the Float at Marina Bay, to be festive and jubilant. After all, nothing beats the feeling of coming together with loved ones to commemorate a shared milestone.
Centred around the theme of ‘Stronger Together’, there’s much to look forward to at the 2022 parade. First, there is the highly-anticipated return of the Total Defence Display, showcasing Singapore’s military prowess. Then, talented local performers Taufik Batisah and Rui En will reunite to perform the iconic National Day Song, Reach Out For The Skies, paying tribute to every Singaporean who overcame adversities posed by COVID-19.
While live performances and helicopters flying past are riveting on their own, one cannot deny that the main attraction for most Singaporeans are the mesmerising National Day fireworks. The dazzling displays, which have a collective hold on the nation, often see citizens flocking to open spaces for that perfect Instagram-worthy snapshot.
This year, the fireworks are slated to take place between 8:15pm and 8:25pm. If you find yourself amongst the vast majority that look forward to the spectacle, we are here to deliver good news. Gone are the days of fighting through hordes of people for the best front-row seats, for we have you covered with a carefully curated selection of the best restaurants to dine at for kaleidoscopic views of the fireworks. All in all, expect a wondrous feast for both your eyes and taste buds.
1 / 4
Kaarla
If you have a hankering for exotic meats, head to Kaarla. Perched on top of CapitaSpring and providing unparalleled panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline, Kaarla houses the world’s highest urban farm above ground. The restaurant boasts a fresh farm-to-table concept, allowing the natural flavours of native ingredients traditionally used by Australia’s Aboriginal people to shine through.
Kickstart the National Day festivities with an array of dishes from Kaarla’s celebratory menu. To begin, indulge in the Smoked Brioche Parker Rolls glazed with rich truffle butter, and briny Australian Market Oysters topped with plum vinegar, enhancing the mineral notes of the shellfish. The main courses hone in on the best of Australia’s seasonal bounty with a tender Foie Gras Monaka and a Nasu Uni Dengaku—a Japanese spin on the classic grilled Australian eggplant. Essentially, expect a gastronomical experience worthy of our nation’s natal day.
Kaarla, 88 Market St, #51-02, CapitaSpring 048948
Enquiries: 8518 3763
2 / 4
Kinki Restaurant and Bar
Located just a stone’s throw away from the Float at Marina Bay, Kinki Restaurant and Bar provides a great escape from bustling crowds without straying too far from where all the excitement will take place. Gather your best crew and feast on exclusive National Day specials, served at the restaurant’s rooftop bar for an unforgettable night, coloured by the brilliant display of fireworks.
Start on a high note by tucking into unlimited servings of specialty sushi and sashimi. Be sure to save room for other irresistible dishes like the cold Hiyayakko—a creamy silken tofu topped with kimchi and fried shallots—or Ahi Tuna Nachos, a snack best paired with a couple of beers to toast to the years of Singapore’s independence.
Kinki Restaurant and Bar, 70, #02-02 Collyer Quay, Customs House, 049323
Enquiries: 6533 3471
3 / 4
Gemma Steakhouse
For those seeking a night full of opulence and generous tipples, look no further than Gemma Steakhouse. Tucked away in an intimate corner of the National Gallery with an unobstructed view of Marina Bay Sands, Gemma Steakhouse provides a venue that is equal parts buzzy and sophisticated—creating the perfect hotspot for catching up with friends over a hearty meal this National Day.
Expect a night of merriment with the restaurant’s elevated canapes and seemingly-endless pours of champagne on the Coleman deck to get guests into a festive mood. Thereafter, head back into the restaurant to continue the revelry with a three-course dinner, featuring a sumptuous selection of modern Italian dishes from artisanal pasta like the Spaghetti ‘Monograno Felicetti’ Cacio e Pepe—Gemma’s take on the timeless classic—to the flavoursome Twelve-Spices Swordfish Belly, perfect for if you’ve got a penchant for fresh seafood.
Gemma Steakhouse, 1 St Andrews Road 05-03 National Gallery, Singapore 178957
Enquiries: 8787 0977
4 / 4
Cé La Vi
For a crystal clear view of the fireworks, spend your evening on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands at Cé La Vi. Party the night away to banging hip-hop beats spun by their house DJs while you sip on Asian-inspired cocktails. We recommend calling for the Rum-a-laka—shaken with rum and whisky, the concoction encapsulates a burst of local flavours thanks to the addition of toasted banana peel and gula melaka, a nod to Malay cuisine.
The fruity drinks pair wonderfully with an extravagant Surf & Turf BBQ Platter. Tuck into Kühlbarra Barramundis and Tiger Prawns for the nostalgia of feasting on smoky barbecue by Singapore’s shorelines—elevated to decadent degrees.
Cé La Vi, 1 Bayfront Avenue Marina Bay Sands, Hotel, Tower 3, 018971
Enquiries: 6508 2188
