Amara Singapore is delighted to launch Local Legends, a new series partnering chefs and dining institutions to offer guests a flavour of Singapore and Southeast Asian cuisine at Cafe Oriental. For 38 years, the proudly Singaporean Amara Singapore has been a cornerstone of the hospitality scene in Tanjong Pagar and a trusted guide to the locale. Through its curated experiences, the hotel offers guests the opportunity to explore the destination’s rich heritage, and foster meaningful connections to the community.
With the launch of Local Legends from January 2025, Amara Singapore aims to connect discerning diners with Singapore’s vibrant gastronomic landscape, showcasing the intricate flavours and heritage recipes that define its unique identity. This new series celebrates the timeless traditions and flavours of food culture in partnership with the best of Singapore and South East Asia’s inspiring culinary talents. Each instalment will spotlight a collaboration with a local legend or dining institution who has mastered the art of storytelling through food, creating unique dining experiences that honour their roots and showcase their creativity.
To kick off this series, the hotel will be collaborating with home chef Christina Hunter of Hunter’s Kitchen (@hunterskitchensg). Originally from Ketapang in West Borneo, Christina made Singapore her home in 2010, and has since gained a devoted following of diners clamouring for her authentic Indonesian cuisine. Her private dinners and curated menus are known to consistently sell out, and her partnership with Amara Singapore presents both locals and travellers with a rare opportunity to savour her creations.
For two days only on 16 and 17 January 2025, Christina will tantalise diners with a semi-buffet dinner, priced at S$108++ per person, limited to 50 reservations per day. Paying homage to traditional Indonesian flavours, with a subtle touch of her rich Teochew-Peranakan heritage. Guests can tuck into a buffet spread of a selection of homemade Sambal and Kerupuk (chilli paste and crackers), and Hunter’s signature Lontong with Opor Chicken, Sambal Goreng Beef Petai and Balado Eggs (homemade compressed rice cakes served with braised vegetables in coconut milk gravy, topped with shredded chicken, beef and quail egg), as well as a selection of desserts.
Guests can select from a choice of two sets for the plated main dish:
Set one – Choice of Suak Chui Koi (chilli chicken) or Asam Garam Sotong (squid cooked with tamarind) served with Nasi Liwet (rice cooked in coconut milk and spices), Sayur Lodeh Tauco (braised vegetables in coconut milk), Balinese omelette, Tempe Orek Ikan Bilis (stir-fried fermented soybeans with anchovies), Bakwan Jagung (fried corn fritter).
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Set two – Rawon Beef (Javanese style beef stew with black keluak nut) served with Nasi Liwet (rice cooked in coconut milk and spices), Salted Eggs, Tahu Isi (fried tofu stuffed with vegetables), Kecambah (mung bean sprouts), Kampung Spring Roll.
The next installation of Local Legends will feature a collaboration with acclaimed Chef Damian D’Silva of Rempapa in March 2025, highlighting Singapore Heritage cuisine. In addition to the current partnerships, more exciting collaborations will be unveiled throughout 2025, offering guests a year full of unique and dynamic culinary experiences. Stay tuned for these upcoming announcements as Amara Singapore aims to bring even more culturally rich dining experiences to the forefront.
Reservations for Local Legends – Cafe Oriental x Hunter’s Kitchen can be made here.
