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Your guide to everything BestFoodWhere – from kiasu food-hunting tips to the inside scoop on Singapore’s hottest mall dining spots!
Foodie Hacks
Insider tips for discovering hidden gems and maximizing your dining experience.
12 QuestionsMall Navigator
Everything about mall locations, layouts, and finding your way to the best food spots.
9 QuestionsApp Features
Guides for postal code search, filters, and getting the most out of our platform.
15 QuestionsRestaurant Owners
Everything you need to know about listing your restaurant and joining our platform.
11 QuestionsAccount & Reviews
Managing your profile, writing reviews, and personalizing your experience.
8 QuestionsDeals & Rewards
Everything about exclusive promotions, discounts, and loyalty rewards.
7 QuestionsComing Soon
Exciting new features in our roadmap including recipes, food guides, and more.
4 QuestionsContact Support
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our friendly support team is here to help.
3 Ways to Reach UsFoodie Hacks
What’s the best strategy for food hopping in Singapore?
Food hopping is a beloved Singaporean pastime that lets you sample multiple dishes across different venues in a single outing. Here’s how to perfect your food hopping strategy:
- Plan around neighborhoods, not just malls – Some of Singapore’s best food districts span both malls and surrounding streets. Target areas like Katong, Tiong Bahru, and Tanjong Pagar where you can easily walk between multiple food spots.
- Use our “Food Trail” feature – Our app offers curated food trails that guide you through the best dishes in each area, optimized for walking distance and avoiding food coma too early!
- Start light, end heavy – Begin with lighter dishes like appetizers or small bites, then move to mains, and finish with heavier, richer foods.
- Share everything – Order one signature dish at each place and share with your companions to maximize the number of places you can visit.
Pro Food Hopping Tip: Pack a small “food hopping kit” with wet wipes, a collapsible water bottle, portable utensils, and antacids (just in case!). Also, wearing comfortable walking shoes and stretchable pants is non-negotiable for serious food hoppers!
How can I find Singapore’s seasonal food specialties?
Singapore has several seasonal food specialties that are only available at certain times of the year. Here’s how to track them down:
- Use our “Seasonal Eats” filter – In the BestFoodWhere app, we have a dedicated filter that shows currently available seasonal foods nearby.
- Follow the calendar – Major seasonal specialties include Durian (June-August), Mooncakes (August-September), Bak Kwa (Chinese New Year), and Hairy Crabs (October-December).
- Check our notifications – Enable push notifications to get alerts when seasonal specialties first appear in markets or restaurants.
- Follow local food bloggers – Many Singaporean food bloggers announce the arrival of seasonal specialties the moment they hit the market.
Insider Tip: For the freshest durians, visit Geylang during durian season after 10pm. That’s when the freshest shipments from Malaysia typically arrive, and you’ll find the best selection before they’re picked over the next day.
What are Singapore’s best-kept hawker secrets?
Beyond the famous hawker stalls with long queues, Singapore has many hidden gems known mainly to locals. Here are some insider secrets:
- Look for elderly hawkers – Some of the best hawker stalls are run by seniors who have been perfecting the same dish for 30+ years. They rarely appear in guidebooks but are treasured by locals.
- Check for “semi-retired” hours – Many legendary hawkers only operate 3-4 hours daily and sell out quickly. Stalls that open only from 6am-10am or close by 2pm often have the most devoted followings.
- Look for “no-name” stalls – Some of the best hawkers don’t even have proper signage, just a queue and maybe a handwritten menu. If locals are lining up at a humble stall, that’s a good sign.
- Explore “mixed rice” stalls – These economical rice (cai png) stalls offer amazing variety, and many have standout signature dishes hidden among their selections.
Local Secret: Use our app’s “Hawker Gems” filter to see stalls rated highly by locals but with fewer than 100 reviews – these are typically the undiscovered treasures that haven’t been written up in tourism publications yet.
How can I spot authentic vs. tourist-trap eateries?
In Singapore’s competitive food scene, knowing how to distinguish authentic local favorites from tourist traps can make a huge difference in your dining experience:
- Check the customer demographics – If a restaurant is filled with mainly locals (especially elderly Singaporeans), that’s usually a good sign of authenticity.
- Beware of excessive advertising – The best local places rarely need to advertise heavily; they rely on word-of-mouth. Places with many tourist board awards prominently displayed might be catering to visitors.
- Look at the opening hours – Many authentic places have unusual or limited hours based on when the food is ready, not when tourists want to eat.
- Check the prices – If a hawker dish costs 2-3 times more than the average price, it’s likely catering to tourists. Real local gems are usually reasonably priced.
Authentication Tip: Use our “Local Approval Rating” feature that shows the percentage of reviewers who are Singapore residents. Places with 70%+ local approval are typically authentic favorites rather than tourist hot spots.
What are the unwritten rules of Singapore food culture?
Singapore has several unwritten dining customs and etiquette rules that locals follow. Understanding these will help you dine like a true Singaporean:
- “Choping” seats with tissue packets – At hawker centers, it’s acceptable to reserve your table by leaving a packet of tissues or a small personal item before going to order your food.
- Sharing is caring – Singaporeans typically order several dishes for the table and share everything family-style, rather than each person having their own separate dish.
- Return your trays – It’s now mandatory to return your trays and dispose of trash properly at hawker centers and food courts.
- “Die die must try” – When a Singaporean says this about a dish, it means it’s absolutely essential to try it – this is the highest food recommendation you can get!
- Respecting queues – Singaporeans are willing to queue for good food, sometimes for hours. Cutting the queue is a serious faux pas.
Cultural Note: In Singapore’s multicultural society, you’ll see people from different backgrounds eating together, so it’s common for some at the table to be following specific dietary practices (halal, vegetarian, etc.). Good friends always make sure everyone has something they can eat.
How do I order like a local at traditional coffee shops?
Singapore’s traditional coffee shops (kopitiam) have their own specialized ordering language that can be confusing for newcomers. Here’s how to order like a local:
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Coffee basics:
- Kopi – Regular coffee with condensed milk and sugar
- Kopi O – Black coffee with sugar (the “O” means “black”)
- Kopi C – Coffee with evaporated milk and sugar
- Kopi Kosong – Coffee without sugar (“kosong” means “zero”)
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Modifiers:
- Gao – Strong (e.g., “Kopi Gao” is strong coffee)
- Po – Weak/diluted (e.g., “Kopi Po” is weak coffee)
- Peng – Iced (e.g., “Kopi Peng” is iced coffee)
- Siu Dai – Less sweet (e.g., “Kopi Siu Dai” is coffee with less sugar)
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Other popular drinks:
- Teh – Tea with condensed milk and sugar (same modifiers apply)
- Milo – Chocolate malt drink
- Horlicks – Malted milk drink
- Lime Juice – Often referred to as “limau”
Ordering Tip: You can combine modifiers, for example “Kopi C Kosong Peng” would be iced coffee with evaporated milk but no sugar. Practice your order before stepping up to the counter, as the queue moves quickly!
What are the best food souvenirs to bring home from Singapore?
Singapore offers many food souvenirs that showcase the country’s unique flavors and can be easily packed in your luggage:
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Shelf-stable local specialties:
- Bak Kwa – Sweet-savory dried meat similar to jerky
- Kaya – Coconut jam with pandan (great on toast)
- Pineapple tarts – Buttery pastries filled with pineapple jam
- Kueh lapis – Colorful layered cake
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Snacks and candies:
- Chilli crab potato chips – Potato chips flavored like Singapore’s national dish
- Salted egg fish skin – Crunchy savory snack
- Hainanese chicken rice-flavored cookies – Sweet cookies with savory chicken rice flavor notes
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Cooking ingredients:
- Spice pastes – Premixed pastes for laksa, rendang, etc.
- Local coffee powder – Traditional Singapore-style robusta blend
- Specialty sauces – Chili crab sauce, black pepper sauce, etc.
Packing Tip: Check our app’s “Souvenir Shopping” list which shows where to buy the most authentic versions of these items, arranged by terminal at Changi Airport so you can plan your last-minute shopping efficiently!
How do I navigate Singapore’s street food scene?
Singapore’s street food scene has evolved from actual street vendors to organized hawker centers, but the authentic flavors remain. Here’s how to navigate this essential Singapore experience:
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Types of eating venues:
- Hawker centers – Open-air complexes with dozens or hundreds of food stalls
- Food courts – Air-conditioned indoor versions, often in malls
- Kopitiams – Traditional coffee shops with a few food stalls
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Navigating hawker centers:
- Look for queues – They typically indicate popular stalls
- “Chope” a table first with tissue packets before ordering
- Note the stall number when ordering multiple dishes
- Be prepared with cash (though many now accept cashless payments)
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Must-try dishes:
- Chicken Rice
- Char Kway Teow
- Laksa
- Hokkien Mee
- Satay
- Carrot Cake (which is not a dessert!)
First-Timer Tip: Use our app’s “Hawker Center Tour Guide” feature which provides layouts of popular hawker centers with recommended stalls highlighted, so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the many options.
Which dining spots offer the best skyline views?
Singapore’s dramatic skyline offers a stunning backdrop for dining. Here are the best spots to enjoy a meal with a view:
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High-end options:
- 1-Altitude – The highest alfresco bar in Singapore with 360° views
- JAAN – Michelin-starred dining on the 70th floor
- CÉ LA VI – Atop Marina Bay Sands with views of Gardens by the Bay
- LeVeL33 – World’s highest urban microbrewery with Marina Bay views
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Mid-range options:
- Smoke & Mirrors – Rooftop bar atop National Gallery
- Southbridge – Oyster bar with views of the Singapore River
- Potato Head – Rooftop garden in Keong Saik
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Budget-friendly spots:
- Makansutra Gluttons Bay – Hawker food with Esplanade views
- The Deck @ Raffles Hotel – Food court with views of Marina Bay
- Lau Pa Sat – Historic hawker center near skyscrapers
Reservation Tip: For restaurants with the best views, book at least 2-3 weeks in advance and request a window table. Our app lets you specify “window seat preferred” when making reservations through the platform.
What’s the etiquette for sharing food in Singapore?
Communal dining is a cornerstone of Singapore’s food culture, with most meals designed to be shared. Here’s the etiquette for sharing food:
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General sharing etiquette:
- Wait for everyone to be served before eating
- Offer food to elders or guests first as a sign of respect
- Use serving spoons (not your personal utensils) to take food from shared plates
- Take small portions initially so everyone gets to try each dish
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Chinese meal etiquette:
- Turn the lazy Susan slowly and clockwise
- Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice (resembles funeral incense)
- Use the back end of chopsticks to take food from communal plates if serving spoons aren’t available
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Indian meal etiquette:
- Traditionally, food is eaten with the right hand
- Break breads like naan or prata with one hand only
- When passing dishes, use both hands as a sign of respect
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Malay meal etiquette:
- At traditional settings, wash hands before and after eating
- Take food from the communal plate closest to you
- Use your right hand for eating and passing dishes
Cultural Tip: In Singapore’s multicultural environment, it’s important to be aware of religious dietary restrictions when sharing food. Our app marks halal, vegetarian, and other dietary considerations clearly so you can order appropriately for mixed groups.
How can I find the most photogenic food spots?
Singapore has become a paradise for food photographers and social media enthusiasts looking for Instagram-worthy dining spots. Here’s how to find the most photogenic places:
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Use our app features:
- “Insta-Worthy” filter – Shows restaurants with high photo ratings
- Photo Gallery View – Browse restaurants by their food images
- “Best Lighting” tag – Identifies places with optimal photography conditions
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Most photogenic dishes:
- Rainbow-colored Peranakan kueh
- Cheese-pull shots from halal beef burgers
- Dramatic ice kachang desserts
- Foam art on specialty coffees
- Colorful bubble teas with unique toppings
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Restaurants with unique aesthetics:
- Botanical-themed cafés with living walls
- Heritage shophouse restaurants with traditional tiles
- Ultra-modern molecular gastronomy presentations
- Rooftop venues with skyline backdrops
Photography Tip: Visit our “Photo Hotspot” locations during off-peak hours (2-5pm) when restaurants are less crowded and you’ll have more time to set up the perfect shot without holding up other diners. Many venues will even help arrange your table for photos if you ask nicely!
What are Singapore’s food districts worth traveling to?
Each of Singapore’s distinctive neighborhoods offers unique food experiences worth the journey. Here are the food districts that deserve a special trip:
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Katong & Joo Chiat
- Specialty: Peranakan cuisine and famous laksa
- Highlights: Colorful shophouses with traditional eateries, original Katong laksa, Peranakan kueh shops
- Best for: Cultural food exploration and heritage dining
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Tiong Bahru
- Specialty: Mix of traditional hawker foods and modern cafés
- Highlights: Art Deco architecture, Tiong Bahru Market, artisanal bakeries
- Best for: Hipster café hopping alongside authentic local fare
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Geylang
- Specialty: Bold, flavorful dishes and late-night dining
- Highlights: Frog porridge, durian stalls, zichar restaurants
- Best for: Adventurous eaters and authentic local experience
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Little India
- Specialty: Regional Indian cuisines beyond just North Indian food
- Highlights: Tekka Market, banana leaf meals, 24-hour eateries
- Best for: Spice lovers and vegetarian options
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Chinatown
- Specialty: Chinese regional cuisines and traditional treats
- Highlights: Hawker centers, traditional bakeries, specialty tea houses
- Best for: Chinese food diversity and heritage snacks
Exploration Tip: Our app offers downloadable walking food tours for each of these districts, with offline maps and audio guides explaining the cultural significance of each food stop. Perfect for self-guided exploration!
App Features
How do I use the postal code search?
Our postal code search is one of BestFoodWhere’s most powerful features, allowing you to quickly find dining options near any location in Singapore:
- Open the search bar at the top of the app’s home screen.
- Enter any 6-digit Singapore postal code (e.g., 238839 for Orchard Central).
- Set your search radius (100m to 2km) using the slider that appears.
- Refine results using additional filters like cuisine type, price range, or dietary requirements.
- View results sorted by distance, ratings, or price.
Power User Tip: You can save frequently used postal codes by tapping the star icon next to search results. This is perfect for finding food near your office, home, or other regular locations.
How can I filter restaurants by specific requirements?
Our app offers comprehensive filtering options to help you find exactly what you’re looking for:
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Basic Filters:
- Cuisine Type (Chinese, Malay, Indian, Western, Japanese, etc.)
- Price Range ($, $, $$, $$)
- Distance (100m to 5km from selected location)
- Ratings (1-5 stars)
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Dietary Filters:
- Halal Certified
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Options
- Gluten-Free Options
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Experience Filters:
- Good for Groups
- Child-Friendly
- Romantic Setting
- Business Meetings
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Special Features:
- Accepts Reservations
- Current Wait Time
- Special Deals Available
- Open Now
Filter Tip: You can save your most-used filter combinations as presets. Just configure your filters and tap “Save Current Filters” at the bottom of the filter screen, then name your preset (e.g., “Family Dinner” or “Quick Lunch Options”).
Can I view a restaurant’s menu before visiting?
Yes, BestFoodWhere offers comprehensive menu previews for most restaurants. Here’s how to access and use this feature:
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Accessing menus:
- Navigate to any restaurant’s profile page
- Tap the “Menu” tab below the restaurant photos
- Or look for the menu icon in search results for quick access
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Menu types available:
- Photo Menus – Actual photos of menu pages
- Digital Menus – Searchable text-based menus
- QR Menus – Direct links to restaurant’s online menu
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Menu features:
- Filter menu items by categories (appetizers, mains, desserts)
- Search for specific dishes or ingredients
- View dish photos for popular items
- See price ranges and special promotions
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Special menu indicators:
- Vegetarian/vegan options highlighted
- Spice level indicators
- Chef’s recommendations and signature dishes
- Seasonal/limited-time offerings
Menu Tip: For restaurants with large menus, use our “Menu Highlights” feature, which shows the most-ordered and highest-rated dishes based on user data. This helps you quickly identify the must-try items without scrolling through extensive menus.
How do I make a reservation through the app?
Making reservations through BestFoodWhere is simple and provides several advantages over calling directly. Here’s how to use this feature:
- Find a restaurant using search or browsing features.
- Check for the “Reserve” button on the restaurant profile (if it’s available for online booking).
- Select your preferred date and time from the available slots.
- Enter party details including the number of guests and any special requirements (high chair, birthday celebration, etc.).
- Add special requests in the notes section (window seating, quiet area, etc.).
- Confirm your reservation with a single tap.
- Receive confirmation via app notification and email.
Reservation Perks: Reservations made through our app often come with exclusive benefits not available when booking directly, such as complimentary welcome drinks, priority seating, or special menu items. Look for the “BestFoodWhere Exclusive” tag when making reservations.
How accurate are the wait times shown in the app?
Our wait time estimates for popular restaurants are based on multiple data sources to provide the most accurate information possible:
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Data sources for wait times:
- Real-time reports from users currently at the restaurant
- Restaurant partner data from venues that share their queue management systems
- Historical patterns based on day of week and time
- Crowdsourced check-ins that indicate current capacity
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Accuracy levels:
- High accuracy (±5 minutes) – Partner restaurants with integrated systems
- Good accuracy (±15 minutes) – Popular spots with frequent user updates
- Estimate only (±30 minutes) – Based solely on historical data
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Wait time indicators:
- Green – Under 15 minutes
- Yellow – 15-30 minutes
- Orange – 30-60 minutes
- Red – Over 60 minutes
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Special considerations:
- Wait times update approximately every 10-15 minutes
- Sudden changes (large groups arriving) may not be immediately reflected
- Some restaurants have separate queues for different party sizes
Queue Skip Tip: For some partner restaurants, you can join the virtual queue directly through our app and receive a notification when your table is almost ready. This lets you shop or explore nearby while waiting, rather than standing in a physical line.
How do I save my favorite restaurants?
BestFoodWhere makes it easy to save and organize your favorite dining spots:
- Save a restaurant by tapping the bookmark icon on any restaurant page.
- Create custom collections by visiting your profile and selecting “My Collections.” You can create collections like “Birthday Dinner Ideas,” “Business Lunch Spots,” or “Weekend Brunches.”
- Organize saved places by adding them to one or more collections. A restaurant can belong to multiple collections simultaneously.
- Set privacy settings for each collection (Public, Friends Only, or Private).
- Share collections with friends via messaging apps, social media, or by generating a unique link.
Organization Tip: Create a “Tried & True” collection for places you’ve visited and loved, and a “Want to Try” collection for spots on your wishlist. This makes weekend dining decisions much easier!
Can I see a history of places I’ve visited?
Yes, BestFoodWhere keeps track of your dining history to help you remember great meals and find them again. Here’s how to access and manage your dining history:
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Accessing your history:
- Go to your profile page
- Tap “My Dining History” or “Places I’ve Been”
- View your complete chronological history of visited places
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How visits are recorded:
- When you check in at a restaurant
- When you post a review or photos
- When you use a deal or reservation made through the app
- When you manually add a visit to your history
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History features:
- Filter history by cuisine, location, or time period
- See what you ordered at each visit (if recorded)
- View your personal ratings and notes
- Statistics on your dining habits and preferences
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Privacy options:
- Set history to private, visible to friends, or public
- Delete specific visits from your history
- Pause history recording temporarily
- Control what details are saved with each visit
Memory Tip: Add quick notes to your visit entries right after dining – note standout dishes, special occasions, or who you dined with. This makes it much easier to recall your experience months or years later when you’re trying to remember “that amazing seafood place we went to last year.”
How do I set my dietary preferences?
Setting up your dietary preferences helps BestFoodWhere personalize recommendations and highlight suitable restaurants for your needs:
- Access dietary settings by going to Profile > Settings > Dietary Preferences.
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Select your dietary type from the main categories:
- Omnivore (everything)
- Flexitarian (mostly plant-based, occasional meat)
- Pescatarian (seafood, no meat)
- Vegetarian (no meat or seafood)
- Vegan (no animal products)
- Raw Vegan (uncooked plant foods)
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Specify religious requirements if applicable:
- Halal
- Kosher
- Buddhist/Jain Vegetarian
- Hindu Vegetarian
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Add specific allergies and avoidances from the comprehensive list:
- Common allergens (peanuts, shellfish, gluten, etc.)
- Individual ingredients you avoid
- Specific cuisines you prefer to avoid
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Set preference strength for how strictly these should be applied:
- “Strict” – Only show fully compliant restaurants
- “Preferred” – Prioritize compliant places but show others
- “Consider” – Just use as one factor among many
Preference Sharing Tip: If you’re dining with friends who also use BestFoodWhere, you can temporarily share your dietary preferences with them when they’re planning a group meal. This helps them find restaurants that accommodate everyone’s needs without having to manually check with each person.
Is there a way to share restaurant recommendations?
BestFoodWhere offers multiple ways to share your favorite dining spots with friends and family:
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Share individual restaurants:
- Open any restaurant page
- Tap the “Share” icon in the top right
- Choose your sharing method (WhatsApp, Telegram, SMS, etc.)
- Add a personal note before sending (optional)
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Share collections:
- Go to “My Collections” in your profile
- Select a collection to share
- Tap “Share Collection”
- Choose between sharing as a link or as a beautifully formatted list
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Create food itineraries:
- Use the “Create Itinerary” feature
- Select multiple restaurants for a food tour
- Add notes and visiting times for each stop
- Share the complete itinerary with your group
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Social sharing:
- Connect your social media accounts
- Share your reviews directly to Instagram, Facebook, etc.
- Create “Food Stories” with multiple photos and venues
- Export recommendations as visually appealing graphics
Group Planning Tip: For large group outings, use our “Group Poll” feature. Select 3-5 restaurant options, then send the poll to all attendees. They can vote on their preferences and even indicate dietary restrictions, making it easy to find a spot everyone will enjoy.
How do I report inaccurate information about a restaurant?
We strive to maintain accurate information about all restaurants in our database. Here’s how you can help by reporting inaccuracies:
- Navigate to the restaurant page with the incorrect information.
- Tap the three dots (…) in the top right corner.
- Select “Report Information” from the dropdown menu.
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Choose the type of inaccuracy from the categories:
- Incorrect operating hours
- Restaurant closed or relocated
- Menu or prices outdated
- Wrong contact information
- Inaccurate location on map
- Misleading photos
- Other issues
- Provide details about what’s incorrect and the correct information (if known).
- Add photo evidence if applicable (e.g., a picture of the current menu or opening hours sign).
- Submit your report for review by our data team.
Verification Process: After submitting a report, our team verifies the information through multiple channels, including contacting the restaurant directly. You’ll receive a notification when your reported information has been reviewed and updated. Contributors who regularly provide accurate corrections earn “Data Accuracy” badges on their profiles.
Can I see pictures of dishes before ordering?
Yes, our app features an extensive dish photo library to help you see exactly what you’ll be getting. Here’s how to access and use this feature:
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Finding dish photos:
- Restaurant menu section – Many dishes have photo thumbnails
- Photo gallery – Filter by “Food” to see only dish images
- Dish search – Search for specific dishes to see pictures from multiple restaurants
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Photo types available:
- Official photos – Provided by the restaurant
- Verified user photos – From confirmed diners
- Community photos – From all app users
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Photo features:
- Zoom in for details
- See date when photo was taken
- View portion size indicators
- Compare different versions of the same dish
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Contributing photos:
- Take photos of your food when dining
- Upload and tag the specific dish name
- Add notes about customizations
- Earn points for helpful food photos
Photo Reliability Tip: Look for our “Freshness Indicator” on dish photos, which shows how recently the image was taken. Restaurant dishes can change in appearance and portion size over time, so more recent photos are often more accurate. You can sort photos by newest first.
How do I view restaurant opening hours?
BestFoodWhere provides detailed and up-to-date information about restaurant opening hours in several convenient ways:
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Quick-view indicators:
- Green dot – Currently open
- Red dot – Currently closed
- Yellow dot – Closing soon (within 1 hour)
- Blue dot – Opening soon (within 1 hour)
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Viewing full hours:
- Tap on the restaurant profile
- Scroll down to the “Hours” section
- Tap “See All Hours” for complete weekly schedule
- Check special holiday hours when applicable
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Special notations:
- Split hours – For places that close between lunch and dinner
- Last order times – When available (e.g., “Kitchen closes at 9:30pm”)
- Limited menus – Times when only partial menus are available
- Special events – When regular hours are affected by events
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Planning features:
- Filter search results by “Open Now” or “Open At [specific time]”
- See when popular restaurants are least busy
- Set reminders for restaurants with irregular hours
- Get notifications when a favorite restaurant changes its hours
Hours Accuracy Tip: For hawker stalls and other places with flexible closing times, we display both official hours and “typically closes by” times based on user reports. This helps you avoid arriving only to find your favorite stall has already sold out and closed early.
How do I find restaurants within my budget?
BestFoodWhere offers several tools to help you find delicious food that fits your budget:
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Price range filters:
- $ – Budget (under $15 per person)
- $ – Mid-range ($15-30 per person)
- $$ – High-end ($30-60 per person)
- $$ – Premium ($60+ per person)
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Precise budget setting:
- Use the “Exact Budget” slider to set a specific maximum per-person amount
- Set separate budgets for lunch and dinner
- Include or exclude drinks in your budget calculation
- Factor in service charge and GST automatically
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Value-focused features:
- “Best Value” sorting – Ranks restaurants by quality-to-price ratio
- “Budget Gems” filter – High-rated places at lower price points
- “Set Menu Deals” – Special price fixed menus
- “Off-Peak Discounts” – Places offering cheaper rates at certain times
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Price transparency features:
- View average cost per person based on actual user spending
- See price ranges for specific menu categories
- Check which places include service charge and GST in menu prices
- Find restaurants with free appetizers or complimentary items
Budget Strategy Tip: Use our “Price-Conscious Foodie” guide in the app, which shows you how to enjoy Singapore’s top cuisines at every price point. For example, if you’re craving Japanese food but have a limited budget, it suggests specific dishes and restaurants that give you authentic flavors without premium pricing.
Is there a way to compare multiple restaurants?
Yes, BestFoodWhere includes a powerful restaurant comparison tool to help you make decisions when you have multiple options. Here’s how to use it:
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Select restaurants to compare by:
- Using the checkbox icon in search results
- Long-pressing on restaurant cards
- Tapping “Add to Compare” on restaurant profiles
- Selecting from your favorites or recent views
- Tap “Compare” once you’ve selected 2-4 restaurants.
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View the comparison table with key metrics:
- Overall ratings and category-specific ratings
- Price ranges and average costs
- Wait times and reservation availability
- Distance and travel time from your location
- Special features (outdoor seating, views, etc.)
- Cuisine types and signature dishes
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Customize comparison priorities by:
- Selecting which factors matter most to you
- Adjusting weights for different criteria
- Setting deal-breakers that disqualify options
- Focusing comparison on specific menu items or features
Group Decision Tip: When dining with friends, use our “Group Compare” feature. Add the preferences and dietary restrictions of each person in your group, and our app will highlight which restaurant would best satisfy everyone’s needs. You can even share the comparison table with your friends so they can see the reasoning behind the recommendation.
How do I get notified about new restaurants near me?
BestFoodWhere offers several notification options to keep you informed about new dining spots in your preferred areas:
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Setting up location-based alerts:
- Go to Profile > Settings > Notifications
- Tap “New Restaurant Alerts”
- Add locations you want to monitor (home, work, etc.)
- Set the radius for each location (500m to 5km)
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Customizing alert preferences:
- Frequency – Daily digest, weekly roundup, or immediate alerts
- Cuisine filters – Only notify for specific types of food
- Price range – Set budget parameters for notifications
- Rating threshold – Only notify for highly-rated new spots
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Notification types:
- New openings – Brand new restaurants
- Soft launches – Places in preview/testing phase
- Pop-ups – Temporary dining concepts
- Coming soon – Advanced notice of planned openings
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Additional features:
- “New In Town” curated lists updated weekly
- Monthly “Fresh Finds” newsletters customized to your preferences
- Opening promotions and special deals for new restaurants
- First-to-visit badges for being among the earliest customers
Insider Tip: Enable our “Preview Access” notifications to get invites to soft openings and friends-and-family events at new restaurants. Our app partners with many new establishments to offer exclusive preview access to active BestFoodWhere users before they open to the general public.
Restaurant Owners
How do I get my restaurant listed on BestFoodWhere?
Getting your restaurant listed on BestFoodWhere is straightforward and offers great exposure to Singapore’s food enthusiasts:
- Create a Business Account – Visit our website and click “For Restaurant Owners” to register for a business account. You’ll need your business registration number.
- Complete Your Profile – Fill in all details about your restaurant including opening hours, location, cuisine type, price range, contact details, and a brief description.
- Upload High-Quality Photos – Add at least 5 high-resolution photos of your restaurant interior, exterior, and signature dishes. Professional photos increase customer interest.
- Add Your Menu – Upload your full menu with prices and highlight your signature dishes.
- Verification – Our team will verify your listing within 2-3 business days before it goes live.
Pro Tip: Basic listings are free, but our Premium Restaurant Listing offers additional benefits including featured placement in search results, special promotional badges, and access to customer analytics. See our pricing plans for details.
What are the benefits of premium restaurant listing?
Our Premium Restaurant Listing offers significant advantages over the basic free listing:
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Enhanced Visibility
- Priority placement in search results
- Featured in the “Recommended” section
- “Premium Partner” badge on your listing
- Inclusion in relevant category highlights
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Advanced Features
- Integrated reservation system
- Ability to showcase up to 20 dishes with descriptions
- 360° virtual tour capability
- Special promotions section
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Business Intelligence
- Detailed customer analytics dashboard
- Demographic information about viewers
- Conversion metrics from views to visits
- Competitor performance benchmarking
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Customer Engagement
- Direct messaging with interested customers
- Ability to respond to reviews
- Push notification announcements to followers
- Create exclusive deals for BestFoodWhere users
ROI Insight: Our data shows that Premium restaurant listings receive on average 5.2x more views and 3.7x more customer visits compared to basic listings. The monthly fee typically pays for itself with just 2-3 additional table bookings.
How do I respond to customer reviews?
Responding to customer reviews is a crucial aspect of restaurant management on BestFoodWhere. Here’s how to effectively engage with customer feedback:
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Access your review management dashboard
- Log in to your business account
- Navigate to “Reviews & Ratings” section
- View all reviews sorted by date, rating, or response status
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Compose thoughtful responses
- Personalize each response with the customer’s name
- Thank them for their feedback (positive or negative)
- Address specific points mentioned in their review
- Keep responses professional and courteous
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Handling positive reviews
- Express genuine appreciation
- Invite them back for future visits
- Mention any new menu items or experiences they might enjoy
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Addressing negative reviews
- Apologize for their unsatisfactory experience
- Provide context without making excuses
- Explain steps taken to address the issue
- Offer to continue the conversation privately
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Follow up options
- Send direct messages to reviewers
- Offer recovery vouchers for negative experiences
- Request review updates after resolution
Response Strategy: Our data shows that restaurants responding to at least 70% of their reviews (both positive and negative) see a 12% higher click-through rate from search results. Premium accounts receive “Response Suggestions” tailored to each review, making it easier to craft appropriate responses quickly.
How can I create special offers for BestFoodWhere users?
Creating exclusive offers for BestFoodWhere users is a powerful way to attract new customers and encourage repeat visits. Here’s how to set up special promotions:
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Access the promotions dashboard
- Log in to your business account
- Navigate to the “Promotions” tab
- Select “Create New Offer”
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Choose your offer type
- Percentage discount (e.g., 20% off total bill)
- Fixed amount discount (e.g., $10 off when spending $50+)
- 1-for-1 deals (buy one, get one free)
- Complimentary item (free dessert, drink, appetizer)
- Set menu promotion (special price for curated menu)
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Set offer details
- Promotion title and description
- Valid date range
- Days/times when applicable
- Maximum redemptions allowed
- Any minimum spend requirements
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Define targeting options
- All users or specific membership tiers
- First-time visitors only
- Previous customers only
- Birthday month specials
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Set verification method
- QR code scan at restaurant
- Unique redemption code
- Show and verify in app
- Automatic application for in-app reservations
Promotion Strategy: Our analytics show that limited-time offers (5-7 days) create more urgency and higher redemption rates than longer promotions. Also, offers valid on typically slower days (Monday-Wednesday) can help balance your customer flow throughout the week. Premium accounts can access our “Promotion Impact Report” to measure the ROI of each offer.
How much does it cost to be featured on BestFoodWhere?
BestFoodWhere offers various visibility options at different price points to suit restaurants of all sizes:
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Basic Listing
- Cost: Free
- Features: Standard restaurant profile, ability to upload basic information, photos, and menu
- Best for: New establishments just starting their online presence
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Premium Listing
- Cost: $99-$199/month (based on restaurant size)
- Features: Enhanced profile, priority in search results, analytics dashboard, review management, special promotion tools
- Best for: Established restaurants looking to grow their customer base
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Featured Restaurant
- Cost: $299-$599/month (location-dependent)
- Features: All Premium features plus homepage placement, inclusion in curated collections, push notifications to targeted users
- Best for: High-end restaurants or new openings seeking maximum visibility
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Promotional Campaigns
- Cost: Starting from $299 for one-week campaigns
- Features: Dedicated promotional banners, featured placement in “Special Deals” section, targeted email inclusion
- Best for: Special events, new menu launches, seasonal promotions
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Annual Packages
- Cost: 20% discount on monthly rates when paid annually
- Features: All relevant tier features plus quarterly promotional campaign
- Best for: Long-term brand building and consistent visibility
ROI Insight: Most Premium-tier restaurants report breaking even on their investment within the first month, with an average return of 3-5x their monthly fee in additional revenue. Our team can provide a detailed ROI projection based on your specific restaurant metrics if you’d like to learn more.
How do I update my restaurant’s information?
Keeping your restaurant information current is essential for attracting customers. Here’s how to update various aspects of your listing:
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General information updates
- Log in to your business dashboard
- Click on “Restaurant Profile”
- Select “Edit” for the section you want to update
- Make your changes and click “Save”
- Updates appear immediately for basic information
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Menu updates
- Navigate to the “Menu” section of your dashboard
- Use the visual menu editor to add, remove, or edit items
- Update prices, descriptions, or availability
- Add new food photos to highlight dishes
- Create seasonal or special menu sections
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Operating hours changes
- Go to “Hours & Availability”
- Set regular operating hours
- Add special holiday hours
- Schedule temporary closures
- Note last order times if different from closing
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Photo gallery management
- Access “Photo Gallery” section
- Upload new high-quality images
- Rearrange photos to prioritize best ones
- Add captions and categorize images
- Remove outdated photos
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Major changes requiring verification
- Location/address changes
- Restaurant name changes
- Ownership updates
- Complete concept overhauls
- These may require additional verification by our team
Update Strategy: Set a calendar reminder to review your entire listing quarterly. Regular updates signal to customers that your information is current and reliable. Premium accounts can enable “Update Alerts” to be notified when user suggestions for your listing (such as menu changes) are submitted.
How can I see analytics about my restaurant page?
BestFoodWhere provides comprehensive analytics to help restaurant owners understand their online performance and customer engagement:
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Accessing analytics
- Log in to your business dashboard
- Select the “Analytics” tab
- View summary cards for key metrics
- Set custom date ranges for comparison
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Profile performance metrics
- Profile views (daily, weekly, monthly trends)
- Search appearance counts
- Click-through rates from search results
- Average time spent on your page
- Photo view statistics
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Customer action insights
- Reservation requests and completions
- Menu views and most-viewed dishes
- Direction requests and map interactions
- Phone call and website click rates
- Save/bookmark activity
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Audience demographics (Premium accounts only)
- Age and gender distribution
- User locations and distance traveled
- Dining preferences and patterns
- New vs. returning visitor breakdown
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Competitive insights (Premium accounts only)
- Performance vs. category average
- Market position in your cuisine category
- Share of search visibility
- Trending comparison with similar restaurants
Analytics Strategy: Pay special attention to your “conversion funnel” metrics, which show how many profile viewers take specific actions like viewing your menu, saving your restaurant, or making reservations. Optimizing your listing to improve these conversion rates can have a significant impact on actual visits.
What photos should I upload for my restaurant listing?
High-quality photos significantly impact customer interest and conversion rates. Here’s how to create an effective visual presentation:
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Essential photo categories
- Hero image – Your main profile photo that appears in search results
- Exterior shots – Storefront and entrance for easy identification
- Interior ambiance – Dining space, decor, and atmosphere
- Signature dishes – Your most popular or distinctive menu items
- Special features – Private dining areas, outdoor seating, views
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Photo quality guidelines
- Minimum resolution: 1080 x 1080 pixels
- Well-lit with natural lighting when possible
- In-focus and sharp without filters
- Landscape orientation preferred (except for stories)
- Authentic representation of current offerings
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Quantity recommendations
- Minimum: 8-10 photos total
- Optimal: 15-20 diverse images
- Food photos: 60% of your gallery
- Ambiance/space: 30% of your gallery
- Exterior/location: 10% of your gallery
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Content recommendations
- Show tables set as customers would experience them
- Include people (staff or customers) for atmosphere
- Capture special touches like presentation or service style
- Feature seasonal menu items or specialties
- Showcase different times of day (lunch/dinner atmosphere)
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Photo management best practices
- Update photos seasonally
- Remove outdated images promptly
- Add captions with dish names and descriptions
- Organize photos by category for easy browsing
- Feature user-generated content with permission
Photo Impact: Our data shows that restaurants with 15+ high-quality photos receive 71% more profile views and 90% more reservation requests than those with just a few images. Premium accounts can access our “Photo Performance” analytics to see which images drive the most engagement.
How do I set up online reservations for my restaurant?
Enabling online reservations through BestFoodWhere can significantly increase your bookings. Here’s how to set up and manage this feature:
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Enable reservations
- Log in to your business dashboard
- Navigate to “Reservation Settings”
- Toggle “Enable Online Reservations” to on
- (Available for Premium accounts and above)
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Configure table inventory
- Set up your floor plan or table inventory
- Define table types (2-seater, 4-seater, etc.)
- Set maximum party size
- Configure special tables (private rooms, outdoor)
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Set availability parameters
- Define reservation time slots (e.g., 15, 30, or 60-minute intervals)
- Set operating hours for reservations
- Configure advance booking window (how far ahead users can book)
- Block out unavailable dates (holidays, private events)
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Customize reservation policies
- Set minimum/maximum party sizes
- Define cancellation policy
- Configure no-show handling
- Set special requests options
- Enable deposit requirements for larger groups
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Integration options
- Use BestFoodWhere’s native reservation system
- Or integrate existing systems (Chope, Quandoo, etc.)
- Set up email/SMS notifications
- Configure calendar integration (Google, Outlook)
Reservation Strategy: Consider implementing a graduated reservation window that gives your most loyal customers earlier access. Premium accounts can enable “Preferred Guest” settings that allow customers who’ve previously dined at your restaurant to book further in advance than first-time visitors.
How can I promote special events at my restaurant?
BestFoodWhere offers several tools to help promote special events at your restaurant, from wine dinners to holiday celebrations:
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Create event listings
- Log in to your business dashboard
- Navigate to “Events & Special Occasions”
- Select “Create New Event”
- Fill in event details, dates, times, and pricing
- Upload enticing event photos or promotional graphics
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Event types supported
- Special menu promotions (seasonal, holiday menus)
- Tasting events and pairing dinners
- Guest chef collaborations
- Cooking classes and demonstrations
- Live entertainment nights
- Holiday celebrations
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Enhanced visibility options (Premium & Featured accounts)
- Featured placement in “Upcoming Events” section
- Inclusion in weekly event roundup emails
- Push notifications to interested users
- Boosted visibility in search results during event promotional period
- Targeted promotion to users based on preferences
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Ticket & reservation integration
- Set up in-app registration/ticketing
- Configure deposit requirements
- Manage attendee lists
- Send automated reminders to registered guests
- Process payments securely through the platform
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Post-event engagement
- Collect feedback from attendees
- Share event photos in your gallery
- Send thank-you messages with future event previews
- Analyze attendance data for future planning
Event Promotion Tip: Create your event listings at least 3-4 weeks in advance for maximum visibility. Our data shows that special events with clear, unique themes and professional images receive up to 5x more interest than generic holiday promotions. Premium accounts can access our “Event Performance” dashboard to measure registration rates and ROI.
How do I manage multiple restaurant branches?
BestFoodWhere makes it easy to manage multiple locations of your restaurant brand through our multi-branch management system:
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Set up multi-branch account
- Register your main business account
- Navigate to “Locations Management”
- Select “Add New Branch”
- Verify ownership of additional locations
- Link all branches under your master account
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Centralized vs. branch-specific management
- Manage brand-wide elements centrally (logo, brand description, website)
- Customize branch-specific details (address, contact, operating hours)
- Set location-specific menus and prices
- Upload unique photos for each branch
- Configure separate reservation systems per location
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User permission management
- Add multiple managers with different access levels
- Assign branch-specific administrators
- Set company-wide administrators
- Control who can respond to reviews or create promotions
- Track user activities with audit logs
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Multi-branch promotion tools
- Create chain-wide promotional campaigns
- Launch branch-specific offers
- Set unified loyalty programs
- Manage brand-wide gift cards
- Schedule synchronized menu updates
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Consolidated analytics
- View combined performance metrics across all locations
- Compare branch-by-branch statistics
- Analyze regional performance trends
- Identify high-performing locations and menu items
- Generate consolidated reports for business planning
Multi-Branch Strategy: Our Premium Multi-Branch package offers significant savings compared to individual Premium accounts for each location. Plus, our “Brand Consistency Report” helps ensure your customer experience and brand presentation remain unified across all branches while still highlighting each location’s unique character.
Account & Reviews
How do I write helpful restaurant reviews?
Great reviews help other diners and support quality restaurants. Here’s how to write effective reviews on BestFoodWhere:
- Be specific about what you ordered – Mention specific dishes rather than generalizing about “the food.” This helps readers know which items are worth trying.
- Balance positives and negatives – Even if you loved a place, mention any minor drawbacks. If you didn’t enjoy it, try to highlight at least one positive aspect.
- Comment on more than just food – Include notes on service, ambiance, cleanliness, and value for money to provide a complete picture.
- Add context to your visit – Mention when you visited (lunch/dinner, weekday/weekend) and how busy it was, as experiences can vary.
- Include helpful photos – Clear images of food, interior, and menu add tremendous value to reviews. Avoid heavily filtered photos that misrepresent colors.
Review Pro Tip: Our “Foodie Credibility Score” increases when you write balanced, detailed reviews. Users with high credibility scores get their reviews featured more prominently and earn extra rewards points for each review.
Can I save my favorite restaurants?
Yes, BestFoodWhere makes it easy to save and organize your favorite dining spots:
- Save a restaurant by tapping the bookmark icon on any restaurant page.
- Create custom collections by visiting your profile and selecting “My Collections.” You can create collections like “Birthday Dinner Ideas,” “Business Lunch Spots,” or “Weekend Brunches.”
- Organize saved places by adding them to one or more collections. A restaurant can belong to multiple collections simultaneously.
- Set privacy settings for each collection (Public, Friends Only, or Private).
- Share collections with friends via messaging apps, social media, or by generating a unique link.
Organization Tip: Create a “Tried & True” collection for places you’ve visited and loved, and a “Want to Try” collection for spots on your wishlist. This makes weekend dining decisions much easier!
Deals & Rewards
How do I claim exclusive BestFoodWhere deals?
Our app offers exclusive dining deals that you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s how to claim them:
- Find available deals by tapping the “Deals” tab in the app or looking for the special deal badge on restaurant listings.
- Review deal details including terms, validity period, and any special conditions (e.g., “Valid Mon-Thu only” or “Min. spend of $30”).
- Claim the deal by tapping “Get Deal” button. This adds it to your “My Deals” section.
- Redeem at the restaurant by showing the deal screen to your server before ordering. Tap “Redeem Now” to generate a unique verification code.
- Rate your experience after using the deal to help us curate better offers for you in the future.
Value Tip: New deals are released every Monday at 10am. The most popular ones (especially 1-for-1 offers at trendy restaurants) can be claimed within minutes, so set a reminder to check the app at that time!
Are there any membership rewards programs?
Yes, BestFoodWhere offers a tiered loyalty program that rewards active users:
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Membership Tiers:
- Regular Member (Everyone starts here)
- Silver Foodie (Earn 500+ points in 3 months)
- Gold Gourmet (Earn 1,500+ points in 3 months)
- Platinum Connoisseur (Earn 3,000+ points in 3 months)
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How to Earn Points:
- Write a review: 100 points
- Upload food photos: 20 points per photo (max 5 per restaurant)
- Check-in at restaurant: 10 points
- Answer Q&A about a restaurant: 5 points per answer
- Redemption verified by restaurant: 50 bonus points
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Tier Benefits:
- Silver: Early access to new deals (1 day before), 5% extra discount on deals
- Gold: All Silver benefits + priority reservations, 10% extra discount on deals
- Platinum: All Gold benefits + exclusive invite-only tasting events, 15% extra discount on deals, dedicated support line
Points Strategy: Active reviewers can easily reach Gold status by posting 3-4 quality reviews per week. Photos significantly boost your points, so always snap a few pictures of your meal!
Coming Soon
What new features are coming to BestFoodWhere?
We’re constantly improving BestFoodWhere with new features based on user feedback. Here’s what’s in the pipeline:
- Recipe Hub – Launching next month, this feature will include authentic recipes from participating restaurants, allowing you to recreate your favorite Singapore dishes at home.
- AR Menu Visualization – Point your camera at a menu item in participating restaurants to see a 3D rendering of the dish before ordering.
- Personalized Food Recommendations – Our AI will learn your preferences over time to suggest dishes you’re likely to enjoy at each restaurant.
- Food Tourism Guides – Curated multi-day food itineraries for visitors to Singapore, organized by cuisine, district, or cultural significance.
- In-App Delivery Integration – Order delivery directly through BestFoodWhere from your favorite restaurants without switching apps.
Beta Testing: Want early access to these features? Join our beta testing program by going to your profile settings and toggling “Join Beta Program.” Beta testers get to try new features 2-3 months before public release.
When will the Recipe Hub be launched?
Our Recipe Hub is one of our most requested features, and we’re finalizing it for release:
- Scheduled launch: The Recipe Hub will be available in the next app update, planned for release on June 15th, 2025.
- Initial offering: We’re launching with 200+ authentic recipes from 50 partner restaurants across Singapore, covering local favorites like Laksa, Chicken Rice, and more exotic specialties.
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Key features include:
- Step-by-step video guides from actual chefs
- Ingredient substitution suggestions
- Automatic portion adjustment calculators
- Integration with online grocery services for one-click ingredient shopping
- Special sections: “Heritage Recipes” featuring traditional dishes passed down through generations, and “Modern Singapore” showcasing contemporary fusion creations.
Early Access: Gold and Platinum members will receive early access to the Recipe Hub starting June 1st, two weeks before the public launch. This will allow our most loyal users to provide feedback before the full release.
Still have questions?
We’re here to help! Reach out to our friendly support team through any of these channels: