City Hall stands at the crossroads of Singapore’s rich history and modern creativity. It is a district where every street corner holds a story, every building carries the echoes of the past, and every experience invites quiet reflection. Those seeking a thoughtful day out will find much to discover, from art galleries and historic landmarks to refined dining experiences that honour tradition and innovation.
Art and Hidden Gems in City Hall
CHIJMES, a former convent turned dining enclave, charms with its gothic architecture and quiet courtyards, while Capitol Singapore offers a blend of old-world elegance and modern lifestyle, from indie boutiques to serene cafés. Together, they invite quiet exploration and a deeper connection to the city’s soul.
City Hall is not only home to epicurean destinations, but also to grand and intimate expressions of heritage and creativity. A visit to the National Gallery Singapore, housed in the restored former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, reveals Southeast Asia’s diverse histories through the world’s largest public collection of regional art. Thoughtfully curated exhibitions, where contemporary installations meet historical masterpieces, echo the district’s own balance of past and present.
Raffles Hotel: A Timeless Icon
Just steps away, the iconic Raffles Hotel stands as a symbol of colonial grandeur and timeless luxury. Its storied façade and rich history make it a must-visit landmark, offering an evocative glimpse into Singapore’s past.
Dining elegantly at 黑珍珠 The Black Pearl
After soaking in the heritage, head to 黑珍珠 The Black Pearl nearby and ease into the evening with a weekday Happy Hour — featuring 1-for-1 bottled beers, house liquors, and wines by the glass. It’s the perfect prelude to rooftop fine dining in Singapore, best enjoyed with sweeping rooftop views of Marina Bay Sands.
黑珍珠 The Black Pearl invites diners to experience modern Cantonese cuisine through a refined, poetic lens. Rooted in the ‘Yue’ fine dining philosophy, the experience is one where tradition and innovation meet in perfect balance.
At 黑珍珠 The Black Pearl, every visit is an opportunity to savour Cantonese cuisine elevated through refined, contemporary techniques. The menu, crafted under the direction of Executive Chef Dee Chan, an award-winning chef with experience at acclaimed restaurants like Mott 32 and Clan 7, features standout creations like the BBQ Premium Iberico Char Siew and the Black Pearl Signature Pork Knuckle Jelly. Whether indulging in live seafood or modern renditions of heritage recipes, each plate reflects his mastery and the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
The elegant interior, inspired by the grandeur of the Qing Imperial Banquet, creates an opulent atmosphere, complemented by panoramic views of Singapore’s city skyline from the rooftop. Dining here blends the old and the new, much like City Hall’s historic charm alongside the city’s modern vibrancy. With personalised service and an exceptional selection of prestigious Champagnes, Chinese teas, and rare spirits, every meal offers a sensory journey.
Final word
City Hall invites not just exploration, but connection. It offers a journey through Singapore’s soul — one that is deepened by art, history, and experiences that honour the spirit of tradition while embracing the possibilities of the future.
Make a reservation and let 黑珍珠 The Black Pearl be part of your next unforgettable journey through City Hall.