Cooking Up A Storm The Les Amis group’s front man Raymond Lim talks about how local restaurants can compete with the best in the world. “Singapore fine dining restaurants have been starting to make their mark abroad. Some, like Les Amis, are being recognised by international media as among the world’s best. But for more local establishments to make their mark globally, there has to be a concerted effort by everyone from the operators to Government bodies. The Singapore Tourism Board, for instance, must recognise that Singapore is not just about kaya toast and Newton hawker centre, but we also boats some of the best restaurants in this part of the world. We need our Government’s help to showcase the culinary gems we have in the country. Les Amis has managed to succeed internationally due to a commitment to the quality of its food and wines, and to the whole dining experience. The second major factor is branding. The Les Amis name is synonymous with excellence and quality, and this didnt happen overnight. Over the past 15 years, Les Amis has consistently been offering diners the best dining experience regardless of who is cooking.”

The Contenders Which local establishments would possibly succeed Iggy’s and Les Amis as the region’s finest restaurants? Here are three contenders to watch closely. Garibaldi Since 2003, affable chef Roberto Galetti has had his fan base broadened at Garibaldi. His recent award of “Restaurateur of the Year (Regional)” at the World Gourmet Summit Awards of Excellence 2009 adds more sheen to his work. Gunther’s Less than two years since it opened, and with a stream of accolades — such as a 4th ranking in The Miele Guide — flowing in, Gunther’s has shown that being relatively young is no impediment to competing with the big boys. FiftyThree Less than a year old, FiftyThree has made an impression on diners with its creative take of modern European cuisine. Audrey Phoon, a food reviewer with The Business Times, feels FiftyThree has a winning package: “In addition to the food — made with quality produce — and ambience, the winning formula [for a restaurant] should include a distinct personality, great service and a location with character. FiftyThree is one that comes to mind.”

A Retail Gem The newest jewel on the Cartier crown has to be its retail powerhouse at Ion Orchard. Come July, the duplex unit, which is the second flagship for the brand here, will open on Singapore’s main shopping strip. This will be the one-stop gateway to the Cartier universe. Expect more showcases, a larger slew of products from timepieces to leather goods, as well as an after-sales service centre, encompassed in this ‘larger-than-life’ luxury space. The storefront flaunts a unique 28m-glass facade, which was specially designed for this boutique, and is inspired by the watered silk pattern of a 1932 Cartier vanity case in 18K gold and black enamel. Even the interiors evoke the grandeur spirit of the brand through the interplay of space, height and light. An atrium decked with crystal chandeliers welcomes you into its regal confines awashed in gleaming gold and red. The furniture was custom made for the boutique from France. The first floor of this boutique will be dedicated to its male customers. The Men’s Salon showcases its masculine watches and accessories such as pens, cufflinks and eyewear.