Known for strong Italian dining concepts with reasonably-priced drinks, such as our fave Osteria Art, the il Lido group's elegant, 1970s-chic National Gallery restaurant delivers again on both fronts. It's one of the city's great treats that drinking with such magnificent views of the Padang and Marina Bay and in such a big-deal historical building can be done so affordably. The wine list ranges from $70-90 for the most part, and their list of unfussy classic cocktails are $16-24. Bar bites include things like batter-fried zucchini flowers with mozzarella and anchovies and pulled pork and pancetta crostini (both $18).

After drinks on the sixth floor lounge (open 11:30am-1am), head down to the fifth floor for dinner. The food menu doesn't disappoint either: restrained, light dishes with just enough contemporary twists to keep things interesting. Don't miss the burnt wheat orecchiette with asparagus and guanciale ($26), the grilled octopus with crispy egg and corn ($25) and the much heartier beef sirloin tagliata with bone marrow salad ($45). They do an Italian leaning brunch menu on the weekends, too.