Ask the concierge! We get the inside scoop from one of Singapore’s most experienced and respected hotel concierges.
We sit down with Muhammad Syahir Bin Mohd Sulaiman, the Chef Concierge at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering, Singapore, to find out all his insider tips.
With 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Syahir currently serves on the Executive Committee of Les Clefs d’Or Singapore, overseeing public relations and international delegate affairs.
In 2024, he was nominated as a finalist for the Concierge of the Year Award in Singapore, with the opportunity to represent the country at the international level.
Outside of his professional work, Syahir is passionate about football and continues to play competitively in the Singapore Football League Division 2, balancing his love for sports with his dedication to providing exceptional experiences for hotel guests.
You’re going to love some of the fabulous insider tips Syahir shares with us here!
What’s the most common request or question you get from hotel guests?
Guests are most curious about dining – where to enjoy authentic local food and which restaurants offer the best experience for special celebrations.
What Singapore restaurant would you recommend for a special occasion and why?
For a truly memorable evening, HighHouse is my top pick.
Its panoramic views, stylish setting, and refined Pan-Asian menu create a romantic and unforgettable dining experience – perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or simply treating yourself to something special.
Are there any unique dining experiences in Singapore you’d recommend?
Yes, for something out of the ordinary, I will recommend Absurdities Singapore.
It’s an immersive, multi-sensory dining adventure where each course is served in a different themed room.
Guests are guided through a secret ‘dining journey’ that blends theatre, storytelling, and cuisine. It’s unlike any traditional meal and perfect for those seeking a quirky, one-of-a-kind experience.
What’s your favourite local dish, and where do you usually get it?
One of my personal favourites is satay, skewers of marinated, grilled meat served with peanut sauce, ketupat (rice cakes), onions, and cucumbers. I usually get it at Mazlan Satay in Sembawang.
Can you recommend a hidden treasure that most tourists don’t go to or know about?
Yes, I’d suggest visiting Kampong Lorong Buangkok, Singapore’s last surviving kampong (traditional village).
It offers a rare glimpse into the country’s past, with rustic wooden houses, gardens, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels a world away from the modern cityscape.
What would you suggest for a unique gift to buy to take home for someone and where can we buy it?
A meaningful and uniquely Singaporean gift would be Peranakan-inspired ceramics or tiles. These colourful, heritage-inspired designs reflect the culture of the Straits Chinese community.
You can find them at The Intan, a private Peranakan museum, where every piece carries cultural significance and makes for a beautiful keepsake.
Where’s the best place to watch the sunset in Singapore?
The best place to watch the sunset in Singapore is Marina Barrage. This iconic spot offers a wide, open view of the city skyline and Marina Bay, making it perfect for capturing stunning golden-hour photos.
The Barrage’s rooftop lawn is spacious and breezy, allowing you to relax, have a picnic, or even fly a kite while watching the sun sink behind the skyscrapers.
It’s a favourite among locals and visitors alike for its scenic views, calm atmosphere, and accessibility from the city
What’s your favourite rooftop bar in Singapore?
I enjoy VUE, located at OUE Bayfront. It offers sweeping views of Marina Bay and the city skyline, coupled with a chic atmosphere.
Their specialty in binchōtan-grilled meats and creative cocktails makes it a perfect spot for a sophisticated evening.
Where can visitors find the best speakeasies or hidden bars?
A unique option is Mad & Midas Bar, a stylish speakeasy with a hidden entrance, intimate vibes, and a carefully curated cocktail list.
For those who enjoy a touch of mystery and exclusivity, it’s a great place to unwind.
What are some locally made products visitors should check out?
Some wonderful options are Kaya Jam — a traditional coconut and pandan spread loved by locals, often enjoyed on toast — and artisanal chocolates from Janice Wong, Singapore’s award-winning chocolatier known for her creative and beautifully designed confections.
For chocolate lovers, Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie is another must-try. This home-grown bean-to-bar chocolatier is celebrated for its sustainable practices and use of Asian cacao.
Our hotel is currently featuring a Sweet Escape with Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie stay package, which includes an immersive DIY chocolate bar workshop – a fun, behind-the-scenes experience for guests.