Amar

Set on the 17th floor of the Raffles hotel, Amar is chef George Mendes’ modern take on Portuguese cuisine, delivered in a dining room that feels unmistakably special. Named for the Portuguese word for “love,” the restaurant leans into classic, seafood-driven dishes Mendes grew up eating, refined with a light, contemporary hand. It’s polished without being stiff, and designed for nights when dinner itself is the destination.

The vibe: The room is elegant and composed, with sweeping city views that immediately raise the stakes. Warm lighting and attentive service keep things grounded, while the height and setting lend a sense of occasion. Amar is the kind of place that works best when you lean into it—dress up a little, settle in, and let the evening unfold.

The food: Seafood anchors the menu, with Portuguese classics reworked just enough to feel current. Plates like Jamón Ibérico, uni toast, Carabineros prawns, Gomes de Sá cod, and arroz de mariscos for two speak to Mendes’ roots while showcasing precision and restraint. Richer dishes appear alongside lighter ones, creating a menu that feels balanced rather than heavy. Desserts are a highlight, especially the made-to-order pão de ló sponge cake—an airy Iberian egg-yolk cake paired with smoked cinnamon ice cream that’s worth saving room for.

The drink: The beverage program is built to complement the food rather than compete with it, with wines and cocktails that play well with seafood and richer sauces alike. It’s a measured, thoughtful approach that keeps the focus where it belongs: on the meal.

Time Out tip: Make a night of it. After dinner, head upstairs to Blind Duck, the Raffles’ discreet speakeasy just above Amar. The cocktails are impeccably made, the views are dramatic, and it’s the easiest way to extend the evening without breaking the mood.