It is a known fact that the food and beverage businesses in Singapore are extremely competitive, due to high rental fees, manpower shortage and other variances. As we see more restaurants and cafes popping up yearly, we also regretfully watch them shut their doors for good.

It takes more than just a brilliant idea and hard work to succeed in this tough industry, especially at times when the economy is not favourable. There are many challenges one will face when opening a new restaurant or cafe. 

Some of the restaurants on this list took us by surprise; while others, not so much. Here are 13 Food Establishments In Singapore We Bid Farewell To In 2016.

Photo Credit: SG Asia City

#1 1 MARKET BY CHEF WAN

Many people would recognise this restaurant in Plaza Singapura helmed by celebrity Redzuawan Ismail chef or otherwise known as Chef Wan.

The chef—who is also a cookbook author—had big dreams for this restaurant which occupied a large area totalling up to 11,000 square feet.

#2 20F SPECIALTY COFFEEHOUSE

The cafe which sat along Jalan Besar served up Insta-worthy cakes and mains that garnered mixed reviews from visitors.

Those who enjoyed their Duck and Waffle dish liked the contrast of flavours in their dishes while others were not too impressed. The cafe officially stopped operations in May 2016.

#3 CATALUNYA SINGAPORE

Spanish restaurant Catalunya housed in Fullerton Pavilion was known to offer majestic views of Marina Bay. The place was very popular for their Spanish food, cocktails and weekend brunch before it closed in June 2016.

However, the restaurant has since released a statement giving hints that they will be relocating to a new site.

#4 DEPARTMENT OF CAFFEINE

One of the most well-known cafes perched on Duxton Hill has ceased operations in January 2016. We enjoyed our visits to Department of Caffeine for its simplicity and wallet-friendly cafe fare.

Although we lament the loss of D.O.C, we are comforted by the thought that we can always head down to one of their other concept cafes—The Populus Coffee & Food Co.

#5 FISH & CO. GLASSHOUSE

Who can forget about the iconic Fish & Co, Glasshouse beside Park Mall? Students and those who are working nearby would be able to recall fond memories in this seafood restaurant.

Due to redevelopment works by Park Mall, the Glasshouse has closed their doors for good since June 2016.

#6 FIVE & DIME EATERY

We always loved the cosy atmosphere at Five & Dime Eatery and it is such a shame that they have closed in April 2016 to rebrand as Fat Lulu’s.

#7 KILO AT PACT

Yet another lovely dining location, KILO at PACT is a lifestyle cafe that attracted eyeballs for more than just its delightful food.

Patrons were to sit on high wooden stools set against concrete table tops; the space boasted a modern industrial look. Unfortunately, the cafe held its closing party in mid-September 2016. We hope they make a comeback!

#8 MAY MAY

The restaurant in the CBD area had a menu of interesting Asian fusion cuisine, but is now closed. Diners used to drop by during lunch for their signature rice bowls and liu sha donuts.

#9 MEATLIQUOR

Originating from London, MEATliquor was a bistro that supposedly served up great tasting burgers that reflect the American lifestyle. The place opened with much fanfare but the burgers were disappointing—a far cry from what we had in London.

Oh well, can’t say that we are surprised about the closure of this one.

#10 MONOCHROME FUSION BISTRO

The black and white culture at Monochrome Fusion Bistro had us all intrigued. This stylish cafe really brought minimalism to the extreme with their monochrome interiors and signature dishes.

It is a pity that the restaurant closed early this year after only one year into the business.

Photo Credit: The French Stall

#11 THE FRENCH STALL

The French Stall was a non-air conditioned restaurant in Little India, tucked by the side of Serangoon Road.

While we had a pretty good impression of The French Stall, it was probably stiff competition from upcoming French casual restaurants that made it difficult for the place to survive

#12 VEGGIE COTTAGE

Those who love vegetarian food would have heard of Veggie Cottage, which had a range of local and Western food on its menu. Their food were all handmade in-house. The vegan dining place closed down in October 2016.