BANCHERIA: WHERE BANCHAN MEETS TAPAS
Made for the Curious, Shared by the Hungry
There’s something irresistible about a table filled with small plates, dishes to dip into and pass around. Bancheria, Singapore’s newest Korean-Spanish fusion restaurant, is built on that very idea – a dining experience designed for variety-seekers and flavour explorers, opens its doors on 1 August 2025.
Taking its name from “banchan” (Korean side dishes) and “taperia” (Spanish tapas bar), Bancheria brings together two cultures with a deep love for bold flavours, casual-warmth communal dining. It’s a concept especially suited for today’s diners, for those who’d rather share five things than commit to one, and those (often women!) who want a taste of everything, without the weight of a heavy meal.
Leading the kitchen is Chef Dannel, who brings over 15 years of culinary experience including Michelin starred establishments to the table. His menu at Bancheria is playful yet refined, with a bold exploration of Korean and Spanish traditions expressed through small plates, comforting belly fillers and vibrant presentation.
At the centre of it all is the Signature Bancheria Banchan Platter, with nine seasonal banchan, each a creative mashup of Korean textures and Spanish flavours from vibrant pickles and kimchi to savoury tortillas, punchy anchovies and sweet-spicy surprises. At just $12 per guest, this shared experience is available only when enjoyed by the entire table, with up to three refills on your favourites. It’s less a dish, more a ritual – one that sets the tone for the rest of the meal.
Tapas-style plates follow, all thoughtfully portioned for sharing at affordable prices. Highlights include Croquettes (available in black truffle, squid and bacalao – $7/3pcs), Galician-style Scallops with Mentaiko ($9/pc), a refreshing Korean Watermelon Salad ($9) that makes a great palette cleanser. A selection of seasonal Korean Rice Balls ($8) and Montaditos, the small open-faced sandwiches featuring bold combinations like Iberico Bulgogi & Piparras ($8), Smoked Spanish Anchovies ($10) and Smoked Salmon with Kimchi Cream Cheese ($8).
For something more substantial, Bancheria’s Belly Fillers deliver familiar comfort with clever twists: the standout Chorizo Tteokbokki ($22), served with gochujang cream and broken Manchego laced with aged sherry vinegar, Truffle Chapagetti with Korean braised cabbage and carrot ($18) and a fiery Pink Buldak Spicy Carbonara Ramyun ($20) round out the heartier side of the menu.
Desserts at Bancheria are playful and nostalgic. Churros ($4/pc), coated in cinnamon or plum sugar, offer a crisp take on a classic, while Hotteok ($5/pc), a chewy Korean pancake, is served with house-infused honeys like barley, orange peel and peppermint which comforting and unexpected.
At the bar, drinks are designed to keep things fun, refreshing and flavour-forward from House Cocktails ($12) and Coolers (mocktails – $6.80) to Specialty Coffee. Highlights include House Sangria (available in red and white – $12) and a curated selection of Korean spirits, like Khee 22 Premium Soju, Ji Pyeong Chestnut and the delicately fizzy Ellyeo Ppyunjoo Takju – each one chosen to complement the playful, layered flavours of the food.
More than just fusion for novelty’s sake, Bancheria is a flavour playground offering variety without excess and value without compromise. It’s the perfect place for those who want a little of everything and a lot of togetherness.
Weekdays – Lunch Sets, Tea-Time and Dinner
Weekends – All Day Full Menu
