Candlenut
Candlenut is a restaurant in Central Singapore that specializes in Peranakan cuisine and became the first in the world to earn a Michelin star for this type of food. The space combines traditional recipes with modern cooking techniques and seasonal ingredients, with each dish carefully prepared and presented.
The restaurant was founded to preserve Peranakan cuisine, which has roots in Chinese settlers in Southeast Asia, for the modern world. Chef Malcolm Lee brought traditional family recipes into a contemporary format that has received international recognition since its opening.
Candlenut takes its name from a nut used in Peranakan cooking. The restaurant reflects the food culture of descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in Southeast Asia and blended their traditions with local flavors.
The restaurant is located on Dempsey Road and serves lunch and dinner daily, with reservations recommended especially on weekends. Staff are happy to explain dishes and their ingredients, so it helps to ask ahead about allergies or special dietary needs.
The menu shifts between lunch and dinner, with a special AH-MA-KASE set at lunch that reflects family heritage. Staff can also arrange private events with preset menus for special occasions.
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