The buzz: The good folk at Lo & Behold (Loof, The White Rabbit, Tanjong Beach Club) just launched this 1930s-style joint in heritage building The Quadrant at the heart of the CBD. They aim to make the restaurant a destination dining spot: rare and special (like the places described in Nassim Taleb’s well-known namesake book, The Black Swan).

The vibe: Striking art deco outfittings with bold geometric shapes—including some cool frosted spherical lights—and a stunning U-shaped bar made of granite, all contribute to The Black Swan's pitch perfect period feel.  

The food: American classics with a contemporary twist, dreamt up by consulting chef Sebastian Ng (Restaurant Ember). Start with steak tartare ($26)—featuring crispy sunchoke—or baked bone marrow with crostini ($18). Then, move on to mains like sous vide duck confit ($36). There’s also a set lunch (Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm) priced from $38 for two courses, plus, a condensed after hours menu (after 10:30pm).

The drinks: Tipples inspired by old school speakeasy favorites, from Salty Sea Dog ($19) to B.B. King ($19), made with banana-infused whisky, smoked maple syrup, barbecue bitters and a dash of sorbet.

Why you’ll be back: Besides the comforting selection of hearty American standards and gorgeous setting (few places in the CBD have this much character), it isn’t too stuffy: ideal for after work drinks with colleagues or even a first date.

Eat this at The Black Swan: Baked bone marrow. It's one of I-S Magazine's 50 things to eat before you die (2013).