Hotspots: Milli Singapore

Where are we going and what’s the vibe?

If Singapore had a rooftop dinner party, this would be it. Perched atop the iconic National Gallery Singapore, Milli is one of the city’s hottest new openings, bringing together Michelin-starred chef LG Han, award-winning bartender Vijay Mudaliar and the team behind Bae’s Cocktail Club. The concept celebrates Singapore’s food, cocktails and nightlife through a contemporary lens, creating an experience that’s equal parts sophisticated and playful. Step out onto the rooftop deck and you’ll immediately understand the hype. Sweeping views stretch across the Padang to Marina Bay Sands, creating one of the most spectacular sunset settings in Singapore. It’s the perfect spot to ease into the evening with a cocktail in hand before settling in for dinner.

From left: Tandoori Cauliflower and Boneless Har Cheong Wings

What’s on the menu?

Think familiar Singaporean favourites… but not quite as you know them. Every dish takes a nostalgic local flavour and elevates it with premium ingredients and contemporary techniques, while still feeling unmistakably Singaporean.

We started with the refreshing Kingfish “Yu Sheng” Ceviche ($28), where delicate kingfish, crisp jicama and fried ginger made for a vibrant opener. Next came the standout Wagyu Beef Tartare ($34). Rich, silky beef paired with fragrant Hainanese curry and crispy potato chips shouldn’t work – but somehow it absolutely does. It’s one of those dishes you’ll still be talking about the next day.

Chicken Rice Paella

Vegetables are anything but boring here. The smoky Tandoori Cauliflower ($18) with cooling mint yoghurt was packed with flavour, while the Cereal Corn Ribs ($16) served with sweet curry sauce proved impossible to stop scoffing.

The Boneless Har Cheong Wings ($18) arrived crispy, juicy and accompanied by a punchy homemade sambal belacan. If you’re dining with friends, save yourself the argument and order two serves. The hero of the evening, however, was undoubtedly the Chicken Rice “Paella” ($32). Inspired by Singapore’s national dish, roasted spring chicken is served over Japanese rice cooked in old mother hen stock and finished with a beautifully crisp base reminiscent of claypot rice. Comfort food, reimagined and absolutely delicious.

How were the drinks?

From Left: The Milli, Peranakan Spritz and The Singaporean Breakfast

The cocktail programme is led by Vijay Mudaliar, and it shows. We sampled our way through the Sundown Drinks menu, with each cocktail drawing inspiration from familiar local flavours while remaining elegant, balanced and incredibly drinkable. Whether you’re planning a full dinner or simply looking for somewhere special to watch the sunset, Milli deserves a place on your rooftop shortlist.

Save room for dessert?

Without question. The Bandung Ice Kacang ($18) is a playful, grown-up take on the beloved local dessert, combining rose liqueur, sake kasu and Ispahan sorbet into something that’s both nostalgic and beautifully refined. Our favourite, though, was The Singaporean Breakfast ($22). Inspired by Singapore’s favourite morning ritual, it combines kaya, kopi, coconut and gula melaka into an indulgent dessert that somehow captures the comforting flavours of breakfast in one elegant plate. It’s clever, delicious and the perfect ending to a meal built around reinterpreting local classics. The desserts are part of the collaboration between Han and Mudaliar, who have reimagined familiar Singaporean sweets using Japanese techniques and modern flavours.

Service with a smile?

As impressive as the view! The team struck the perfect balance between polished professionalism and genuine warmth. Every recommendation came with enthusiasm and knowledge, without ever feeling rehearsed or intrusive. From cocktails through to dessert, the service felt seamless.

Would you go back?

Absolutely. Milli proves that a restaurant can have both style and substance. From the moment you step onto the rooftop deck to the final spoonful of dessert, every detail has been thoughtfully curated. If you’re looking for a memorable evening in one of Singapore’s most iconic locations, this is one reservation you won’t regret. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, entertaining overseas visitors or simply treating yourself to a memorable night out, Milli delivers on every front.

Kerry, Melinda and Ellie at Milli

#05-02, #06-01, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Road
 millisingapore.com