A Michelin-starred chef has moved into Chinatown and it is none other than Jason Atherton. If you're expecting a black-tie affair with perfectly starched tablecloths, think again. Occupying a corner shophouse where the Tiffin Club used to be, Esquina is a tapas bar in all sense of the word. For one, it doesn't take any reservations and isn't apologetic about it. But that's where the fun begins. Grab a seat along the L-shaped bar counter and strike up a conversation with Executive Chef Andrew Walsh as he works his magic on the other side. Otherwise, simply stand and mingle. Somewhere between the industrial chic décor, pulsing indie-electro tunes, sizzle of the Josper Grill and intentionally cosy space - conversations happen. The vibe is convivial and it is almost impossible to walk out of there without a few namecards in your pocket.

The menu is a sexy toss up between classic Spanish tapas and mod-Spanish creations. Few places in Singapore can rival the ceviche served here. Scallop ceviche, accompanied by a radish salsa, is spiked with an addictive layer of yuzu. The Iberico pork and foie gras burger is also equally tantilising - think toasty buns and juicy, flavourful meat fortified by the creamy richness of foie gras. Dip it into the accompanying avocado mayonnaise and you'll be asking for seconds. If you love the salty crunch of bonemarrow, you'll find it sprinkled over fork-tender ox cheeks cooked in sherry; sharing the cast-iron pan are crisp bacon chunks and a smooth potato mash - a flavour combination that hits all the high notes. For dessert, the black olive sorbet with strawberry gazpacho and basil takes the most unexpected flavours and melds it into a sweet, tart and refreshing treat.     

16 Jiak Chuan Road, 6222 1616