Ola Cocina Del Mar

#01-06 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, 12 Marina Boulevard 6604 7050 | olarestaurant.sg

Helmed by Peruvian chef Daniel Chavez, this Spanish spot has a cosy, homey feel with none of the stuffy vibes that you may find at some other CBD eateries. The open-kitchen design makes the counter the place to sit, as it’s where most of the action takes place, especially at lunchtime when it’s packed to the gills.

While chef Daniel originally devised a strictly Spanish- style seafood menu, he adopted a Latin twist after requests from patrons that his Peruvian-inspired “specials” become mainstays, along with various meat options. Signatures here include the pulpo a la brasa (grilled octopus; $24), fish ceviche with lime, chilli and red onions ($24), cochinillo “Ola” ( whole roasted suckling pig with orange caramel, and sweet and sour sauce; from $48) and churros with warm chocolate sauce ($15), plus six different paellas (from $38) including a squid ink version.

In honour of Ola’s fifth anniversary, the restaurant has rotating daily specials all month long, plus a “Paellada” party on 30 July (12 noon to 4pm), where chef Daniel will play host to chefs Rishi Naleedra (Cheek by Jowl), Asai Masashi (Bincho) and Mario Malvaez (Tono Cevicheria). All four chefs will serve their special takes on the traditional Spanish rice dish ($150 per person, including free-flow food, wine and other drinks). Visit olarestaurant.sg/latestevents for more details.

GREAT FOR: Business lunches and quiet dinner dates