PUBLISHED October 5th, 2019 06:30 am | UPDATED July 25th, 2024 03:56 pm
It’s been a good two years, but now, the majestic icon that is the Raffles Hotel Singapore is emerging fresh from an extensive two-year-long refurbishment. First established in 1887 in the mesmerising heart of the city, the colonial property has long been a stalwart in the country’s hospitality sphere, playing host to famous guests like Michael Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor, and Rudyard Kipling. Needless to say, it’s such a big deal that it’s since been gazetted by the government as a national monument – and we’re all for it.
To celebrate the official unveiling of Singapore’s beloved Grande Dame, Raffles Hotel Singapore has organised an epic festival that will bring together the best in local and international music groups, food, and drinks. Of course, guests can partake in a discovery of the hotel’s most intimate spaces, including a glimpse into the newly restored suites. Fun fact: did you know that up to 2017, the hotel was still using the bulky CRT television sets?
Look forward to an amazing array of exciting culinary creations served in tasting portions from the revamped celebrity chef concepts, such as BBR by Alain Ducasse, taking over the much-loved Bar & Billiard Room with Mediterranean grill flavours and dishes like Pulpo a La Gallega. From famed chef Sophie Anne-Sophie Pic’s La Dame de Pic comes her signature Berlingots, alongside the signature Spicy Tiger Prawns from Yì by Jereme Leung. And there’s more: indulge in the aromatic North Indian tandoori at Tiffin Room and tender, juicy steaks from Butcher’s Block, all while sipping on specially curated bespoke cocktails and wines throughout the night.
No festival is complete without entertainment, and a selection of curated performances is set to keep you engaged throughout the night with different genres at various spaces of the hotel, amidst their abundantly lush gardens. The enlivening entertainment line-up includes Singaporean comedian and actor Hossan Leong, Artiste Kit Chan, singer-songwriter Inch Chua, Singapore’s biggest pop band The Sam Willows, smooth tunes from Anderson and Roe Piano Duo, and so much more. You’re also invited to marvel at the collection of art and antiques at the exquisite Raffles Treasures, or take a walk down the Hall of Fame for a glimpse of some of the famous personalities that have visited the beloved Grande Dame.
Tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime occasion are priced at S$300 per person for the four-hour extravaganza. And hey, you’ll be doing some good – Raffles Hotel Singapore will donate the proceeds from ticket sales to their adopted charity for the festival, Community Chest.
An Iconic Return – The Raffles Reopening Festival is happening on 18 October 2019 from 7pm to 11pm. Entrance to the festival is at Raffles Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 188719. See here for tickets and more information.
