Singapore’s fine-dining scene in dire straits; more closures expected before year end

BY OCTOBER, one-Michelin-starred Sommer will be no more. Former star Beni recently shuttered without a word. Popular fine-dining favourite Voyage is also set to close at the end of December. Longstanding Bam! Restaurant served its last meal on Aug 15. They are just the latest stark reminders that talented chefs and pedigree are no longer a match for the wallet that rules them all – the increasingly cost-conscious consumer.

They follow a list of Michelin-star closures announced in the last six months that include La Dame de Pic, Braci, Table65 and Chef Kang’s. While the non-renewal of leases is among the reasons cited for closure, the rate at which restaurants are calling it quits is a clear sign that the malaise felt in the fine-dining industry since 2023 is escalating into what one restaurateur calls “a purge that has only just begun”.

Market challenges

Sommer will close on Oct 26, when its lease runs out after four years. “We’ve done all we can with Sommer and we want to focus on brands with good growth opportunities,” says Lim Kian Chun, co-founder and chief executive officer of Ebb & Flow, which also closed its Tigerlily Patisserie in April this year.