Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Michelin-Inspired Menu in Singapore

At the heart of every extraordinary dining experience lies a careful balance of artistry, precision, and passion. Here in Singapore—one of Asia’s most dynamic culinary capitals—fine dining is not just a meal, but a curated journey. At Riviera, our team works tirelessly behind the scenes to craft a Michelin-inspired menu that celebrates both innovation and tradition.

From Inspiration to Execution

Every dish on our menu begins with a story. Sometimes it’s inspired by a seasonal ingredient from a local farm in Lim Chu Kang. Other times, it’s a memory from our Executive Chef’s childhood, transformed with haute cuisine techniques. The creative process starts months in advance, with research, experimentation, and a deep understanding of flavour balance.

Singapore’s Multicultural Palette

In a city where Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Eurasian cultures blend seamlessly, our menu reflects this diversity through subtle nods and bold reinventions. Take, for instance, our signature Laksa Scallop Tartare—a refined take on a local favourite, elevated with fresh Hokkaido scallops and house-made laksa espuma.

Each season, we revisit the classics with global influences: French techniques, Japanese discipline, and Southeast Asian soul.

The Role of Seasonality

Fine dining in Singapore is evolving toward greater respect for seasonality and sustainability. Our chefs work closely with regional producers to source the freshest ingredients—from wild-caught fish from Malaysia’s waters to heirloom vegetables from Cameron Highlands.

Seasonal changes drive the heartbeat of our tasting menu. In spring, you may find delicate blossoms and herbs gracing your plate. In autumn, earthier flavours like truffle, mushroom, and root vegetables come to the fore.

Precision and Passion in Every Detail

Once the menu is conceptually complete, it undergoes rigorous testing. Every component is plated, tasted, and refined—sometimes dozens of times. Our sommelier then joins the process to develop complementary wine or sake pairings that enhance each course.

Front-of-house staff are also trained to understand the menu’s nuances. This ensures they can guide guests through the dining experience with knowledge and warmth, making even the most complex dishes feel approachable.

Why It Matters

In a city teeming with exceptional dining options, our Michelin-inspired philosophy is about more than technique or presentation—it’s about heart. We believe that true luxury lies in details: the perfectly caramelized shallot, the glint of citrus oil, the gentle warmth of service that lingers like a fond memory.

Dining at Riviera is a celebration of craft, culture, and creativity. We invite you to experience it for yourself.