Chef Carlos Montobbio and his team have certainly dominated the pith of Spanish tapas here at Esquina. Despite that, the renowned restaurant down at Jiak Chuan Road isn’t one to rest on their laurels — especially with their open approach to introducing refreshed menus, encompassing the likes of fresh Boston scallops and horseradish ice-cream. Make sure to grab a stool by the open kitchen, because that’s where all the action is at.

Opening hours: (Tue to Fri) Lunch: 12pm-2.30pm, (Mon to Sat) Dinner: 6pm-10.30pm

Any insatiable craving for nasi padang warrants a visit to Yanti. This shop never fails to have a slew of hearty dishes by its display window — of which you’ll find authentic Indonesian cuisine in the form of beef lung, mutton ribs and not forgetting, rendang. It’s impossible to walk away without a hearty plate on your hands.

Opening hours: (Mon to Sun) 7.30am-10.00pm

Never underestimate any zi char business, especially if the estimated waiting time is about an hour during peak periods. Kok Sen stands as an iconic inhabitant of the area since the hazy red-light district days of Keong Saik. Most dishes will hit the spot but if you’re really asking? Go for their hor fun with prawns and claypot yong tau foo.

Opening hours: Daily 5pm-11.30pm, closed every alternate Mon

This local stalwart has been here way before any of us were born — and so have their age-old roasting techniques. Call for a mixed plate of roast meats: the char siew is succulent and deftly marinated while their roast pork is decked with the right amount of fat. If you’re health conscious, simply put in a request for the leaner cuts. Despite how busy they always are, the aunties are nice enough to accommodate.

Opening hours: (Mon to Sat) 11am-8pm