After a recent visit to Maison Boulud at Marina Bay Sands, I’m convinced it’s not just another French restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a business lunch, or just want to treat yourself, Maison Boulud consistently delivers with its innovative take on French cuisine, all while maintaining the balance between sophistication and comfort. And yes, I took a few photos during my visit, so you can see what I mean!
But Singapore is filled with incredible French restaurants, and it wouldn’t be fair to talk about just one. Let’s compare Maison Boulud to some of the other notable French spots in town like Brasserie Gavroche, Odette, and Les Amis to see what makes each of these places stand out.
1. Celebrity Chef Appeal:
Maison Boulud is the brainchild of Daniel Boulud, a globally recognized chef with two Michelin stars under his belt. His menus always reflect a personal touch—rooted in Lyon but adapted for the modern palate. Every dish feels like it carries a piece of his global culinary empire, with high attention to detail and a seasonal twist.
Meanwhile, if we’re talking about another celebrity chef experience, Odette is a strong contender. Helmed by Julien Royer, Odette offers an artful, almost museum-like experience with its elegant, minimalist design. Ranked consistently in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Odette focuses on using the finest seasonal ingredients, bringing French gastronomy to the next level. But while Odette leans into the fine-dining, almost artistic experience, Maison Boulud remains more accessible—allowing diners to feel comfortable whether they’re there for a special occasion or just a nice meal.
2. Fine-Casual Vibe vs. Elevated Dining:
Maison Boulud shines in offering a fine-casual experience, blending high-end French cuisine with a relaxed, approachable atmosphere. This sets it apart from places like Les Amis, a three-Michelin-star restaurant that offers one of the most opulent French dining experiences in Singapore. Les Amis is all about formality, offering an ultra-refined, haute cuisine experience where you’ll find classics like foie gras terrine and French caviar presented with the utmost precision.
In contrast, Maison Boulud gives you that same level of culinary artistry but in a more approachable way—whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner. And if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate the versatility of the space, where you can choose between the light-filled ground floor for a casual bite or the more intimate basement for a romantic evening.
3. Location Matters:
Location plays a big role when deciding where to dine, and Maison Boulud has a prime spot in Marina Bay Sands, one of Singapore’s most iconic destinations. Dining here means you’re surrounded by luxury, from high-end shopping to the world-renowned infinity pool. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to indulge.
Les Amis, located on Scotts Road, may not have the same global landmark appeal as MBS, but it offers exclusivity in the Orchard area. Brasserie Gavroche, on the other hand, is located in Tanjong Pagar, a quaint historical area perfect for a cozy, nostalgic night out. Each of these restaurants excels in its own right, but Maison Boulud’s Marina Bay Sands location gives it an edge in terms of visibility and prestige.
4. Innovation vs. Tradition:
If you’re looking for innovation, Maison Boulud is your place. The dishes are ever-changing with the seasons, and Chef Boulud’s global influence ensures that the menu never feels static. During my last visit, I indulged in a Crab Bisque that was as rich and flavorful as it was unexpected. Every dish offers a modern twist, from the Ora King Salmon with Buckwheat Beurre Blanc to the Chocolate, Café dessert, which is a perfect balance of indulgence without being overly sweet.
While Brasserie Gavroche is perfect for those seeking a more traditional experience—think steak frites and duck confit—Maison Boulud keeps the menu dynamic and fresh. Odette, of course, is another innovative option, but it leans into a more art-inspired approach, offering food that’s as much about the visual experience as it is about the taste.
For those who crave an ultra-refined experience, Les Amis stays loyal to classic French dishes but presents them with the utmost elegance. However, if you prefer French cuisine with a bit of creativity and surprise, Maison Boulud will not disappoint.
5. Ambience & Atmosphere:
When it comes to the overall vibe, Maison Boulud offers the best of both worlds. The upstairs dining area feels lively and vibrant, with views of the waterfront, while the basement provides a more intimate, romantic setting—perfect for a date night. The décor, designed by Joyce Wang, adds a touch of Mediterranean charm and coastal opulence.
Odette offers a more minimalist, art-gallery-like experience, where the focus is entirely on the food and the serenity of the space. Les Amis is the epitome of luxury, with a more formal atmosphere, while Brasserie Gavroche brings a homey, vintage Parisian vibe that’s charming in its own right.
Here’s a shot of me at Maison Boulud, enjoying the seafood tower. Trust me, this is one dining experience that’s hard to beat!
Final Thoughts:
Maison Boulud brings something special to Singapore’s dining scene—a perfect balance between approachable fine dining and high-end French cuisine. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a casual meal, Maison Boulud stands out for its versatile setting, innovative menu, and world-class service.
That’s not to say other French restaurants in Singapore don’t have their merits—Odette and Les Amis are stellar if you’re in the mood for formal fine dining, while Brasserie Gavroche is your go-to for classic French comfort food. But for me, Maison Boulud strikes the perfect balance, offering French dining without the fuss.
If you’re in Singapore, I highly recommend trying it out. I even left them a Google review!
What’s your favorite French restaurant in Singapore? Let me know in the comments below!
