Bar Stop is an acknowledged Singapore favorite, both for its relaxed ambience and its satisfying, inexpensive menu. The contemporary interior, with exposed brick walls and wood paneling, is stylish and comfortable, but there's al fresco seating as well for those who prefer dining under the stars. Try the beef tenderloin in mushroom sauce, oxtail stew, or splurge on lobster ravioli. The adjacent Sushi Yoshida is operated by the same folks and boasts one of the best Japanese chefs in the city.

ORCHARD ROAD. The venerable Gordon Grill opened in 1963, and aside from a few upgrades in the décor, not much has changed. In this case, that's a good thing. The Goodwood Park Hotel's classy dining room is perfect for special occasions, and the knowledgeable staff is quietly adept and well-versed in providing the kind of service befitting such an elegant setting. Although the place is perhaps best known for their meat trolley, from which you select your preferred cut and size of beef, the kitchen excels in all its endeavors, from lobster bisque to lamb chops to Dover sole, and presentation is exceptional. It would be a shame to forgo dessert here ­ the dramatic tableside preparation of crepes Suzette is a lovely way to end a meal. Excellent wine list.

ROCHESTER PARK. "Trendy" doesn't begin to describe Graze. The dining room is situated on the lower level of a charming bungalow, and manages to be casual and upscale simultaneously. Upstairs is the bar, a more elegant destination on its own. Food here is creative and extremely well prepared, and the staff delightfully friendly and helpful. Choose from the "grazing" menu of smaller, share-able dishes, or select a traditional main course. Grilled meats and contemporary healthy alternatives are the specialty ­ even the weekend breakfast menu is reasonably good for you!

Halia means ginger in Malay, an apt name for this Botanic Garden restaurant overlooking the stunning ginger garden. Gaze through floor-to-ceiling windows, or take in the view from the deck ­ either is a fine setting for a meal. The daytime menu is casual, with sandwiches, salads and pasta dominating; evenings see a switch to more elegant fare such as roasted rack of lamb marinated in Javanese spices, seafood stew, and a nice selection of specially crafted ginger-inspired dishes. Halia is also an ideal spot for traditional afternoon English tea, and the weekend breakfast buffet is quite good as well.

ORCHARD ROAD. With its soothing color palette of natural tones and oh-so-tasteful potted plants, you may not notice Harbor Grill's nautical décor at first. But the elegant setting does indeed include a number of seafaring elements ­ think antiqued ocean maps and seascape paintings, not stuffed marlins and fishing nets. The restaurant is known for its selection of fresh oysters flown in weekly from around the world, and its sublime prime rib; Caesar salad prepared tableside and the daily special dessert soufflé will round out your meal nicely.