Singapore’s dining scene has always had its fair share of swanky spots, but HighHouse has just raised the bar – literally. Perched at a dizzying 282 metres atop One Raffles Place, this sky-high destination is already known for its stunning views and plush setting.
Now, with the launch of its new “Dinner & Dance” programme, HighHouse is making sure that every night feels like an occasion, complete with a Pacific Coast-inspired menu, craft cocktails, and a lineup of live performers.
I had the pleasure of experiencing it all firsthand, and in a nutshell – I left thoroughly entertained and well-fed!
HighHouse
The concept behind “Dinner & Dance” is simple. Why choose between a great meal and a great night out when you can have both? With a roster of DJs, live musicians, and even roving dancers gracing the venue on different nights, HighHouse brings fine dining and nightlife together.
Walking into HighHouse, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of it all. The space sprawls luxuriously across Levels 61 and 62, featuring everything from an elegant dining room to lounges, two bars, and even a Champagne Room.
The night came alive when the guest DJ started spinning, setting the chic vibes. Soon after, a saxophonist took the stage, layering sultry jazz over the beats – I felt the energy shift as the music pulsed through the room! The atmosphere itself was a feast for my senses.
But what made my jaw drop was the view. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking panorama of Singapore’s skyline, stretching from Marina Bay to the Padang. This was my first time dining at such a height, and it felt surreal! The prospect of belting out tunes in their karaoke nook – yes, karaoke, believe it or not – with the city twinkling behind me had me geeked.
The views weren’t just about the cityscape outside; the interior was just as much a spectacle. Art lovers would have a field day here, with a carefully curated selection of mixed media, sculptures, and digital art throughout the space. What caught my eye was the mesmerising digital screens displaying generative art that shifts with the mood of the evening.
The ambient lighting and hypnotic visuals felt like time had slowed down – ideal for my long, indulgent dinner that was to come. Which brings me to the real reason I was here: the food. Let’s talk about it!
Not a Butter Chicken
As a desi girl, I couldn’t resist picking Not a Butter Chicken first – because what do you mean you’re not giving me some butter chicken? It arrived looking like a dainty version of the classic dish I know and love, but the moment I took a bite, I could tell something was different.
The French chicken breast had a gorgeous sear, bringing a firmer bite compared to the usual tandoor-cooked versions. The sauce had all the comforting, creamy warmth of butter curry, but the addition of feta and pickled Guindilla peppers brought an unexpected tanginess that cut through the richness.
Though I initially found myself missing the smokiness of a traditional butter chicken, the different elements made up for it! I appreciated this clever reinterpretation.
Rating: 8.5/10
Tofu Puff Pockets
The Tofu Puff Pockets were essentially gado-gado stuffed into delicate tofu puffs – and if you love peanuts like me, this one’s for you. The peanut brittle added a pleasant sweetness, while the egg salad kept it perky and fresh. Each bite was light and appetising!
The tofu itself soaked up all the flavours beautifully, and when I bit into it, the gravy pooled in my mouth so satisfyingly! A small qualm I had was the contrast of textures – something about the beansprouts with the tofu didn’t quite meld for me. But despite my minor gripes, I enjoyed the dish thoroughly – I simply moved the beansprouts aside!
Rating: 8/10
Duck Rillettes Pasta
Mafaldine pasta tossed in an indulgent mustard sauce with duck rillettes and a snowfall of Parmigiano Reggiano? If I didn’t try the Duck Rillettes Pasta, I’d have felt like I was denying myself heaven.
This was a beautifully rich and creamy main, and mustard added just the right amount of zing to keep things interesting. My only complaint is that I find mafaldine a bit of a hassle to eat – penne is where it’s at for me – but of course, this is just a matter of preference. The taste itself was fantastic.
I kept reaching for the bites with extra cheese because, well, cheese makes everything better. And surprisingly, this dish wasn’t too heavy despite all the carbs and rich elements! It’s hard for pasta to go south, so if your mouth is watering for a taste of Naples, try this!
Rating: 9/10
Mala Shrooms
Now, I dug into the Mala Shrooms expecting a fiery punch, but it wasn’t quite as “mala” as I had hoped. Yes, the mushrooms were cooked perfectly – silky, juicy, and infused with all the right aromatics. Yes, the confit garlic, onions, and pickled ginger added layers of depth and texture.
But I was waiting for that familiar numbing hit of spice, and it barely introduced itself before leaving. Maybe that’s just the spice fiend in me talking – I’ve often been told I can’t be trusted to gauge spice levels – but for me, the kick was barely there. This was still a solid dish, nonetheless, and I just know it would have been so satisfying if it had a more generous dose of heat!
Rating: 7.5/10
Cocktails
The cocktail menu at HighHouse is as eclectic as its food, drawing inspiration from six countries across the Pacific Coast – Australia, Korea, Malaysia, Peru, Thailand and the USA! I tried two of their concoctions, and let’s just say they were a tale of two extremes.
Seoul Side
Now, the Seoul Side was a perilla-infused take on the South Side – smooth, refreshing, and easy to drink. It’s the kind of cocktail that slips down effortlessly, and I can see it having its fans among those who prefer subtle, herbaceous flavours.
But for me? It felt a little too safe. While well-executed, it lacked a spark, as there weren’t any notes that made an announcement. I wanted something more memorable – something that would make me sit up and take notice. It was pleasant as a drink to enjoy in the moment, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me!
Rating: 6/10
Soi Sky
Then came the Soi Sky, a Tom Yum-inspired cocktail that won my heart over. This drink had all the good stuff, with the bright citrus cutting through aromatic galangal and lemongrass. The different flavours blended into each other like a dream, unfolding in layers as I sipped slowly.
And just when I thought the spice wasn’t going to show up, it snuck in like an old friend, leaving a warm, gentle buzz at the back of my throat. That’s what kept me going back for more! This cocktail set the standard for every other drink on the menu. No notes – easily a must-try!
Rating: 10/10
Experience HighHouse for yourself!
Wow, what a night. From the panoramic skyline views to the immersive art, the live music, and the delicious menu, every element made this an unforgettable evening. While some dishes and drinks stood out more than others to me, the overall concept is a winner!
So, if you’re looking for a fun night out, a romantic date spot, or just a place to revel in great food and music, HighHouse delivers. My recommendation? Come hungry, grab a Soi Sky, and let the night take you where it may.
📍Location: 1 Raffles Place, 048616, Level 61 & 62
⏰Opening Hours:
- 11.30am – 1am (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday)
- 11.30am – 3am (Wednesday and Friday)
- 5pm – 3am (Saturday)
Tummy rumbling already? Place your reservations now! For more information, check out HighHouse’s website and follow their socials on Instagram and Facebook.
Photos By Leo Chia of the DANAMIC Team. Additional Visuals Courtesy of HighHouse.
