Sanobar Gila Gula represented an innovative collaboration between two culinary specialists in Singapore's Kampong Glam district. Located at 48 Kandahar Street, this unique partnership brought together Sanobar's expertise in Lebanese cuisine with Gila Gula's mastery of local desserts, creating a distinctive fusion dining experience near the Malay Heritage Centre and Masjid Sultan.
The restaurant offered diners an unusual combination of succulent Lebanese dishes alongside traditional local desserts. Their menu showcased carefully prepared items such as slow-cooked Lamb Shank served on aromatic Mandi rice, Arayes (Lebanese pita sandwich stuffed with minced lamb, fresh tomatoes and spices), and an impressive seafood tower presentation. The establishment gained particular recognition for their dessert offerings, especially the Gorpis Cheese Ondeh - fried banana drizzled with cheese and coconut with gula melaka and pandan - which became a best-seller amongst patrons.
The collaboration concept allowed Sanobar Gila Gula to bridge Mediterranean and Southeast Asian culinary traditions, offering diners variety within a single venue. The restaurant's location in Kampong Glam positioned it within a culturally rich neighbourhood known for Arab and Malay heritage, making it a natural fit for Middle Eastern cuisine with local touches.
However, according to recent information, Sanobar Gila Gula appears to have permanently closed. Whilst the restaurant operated, it demonstrated how cross-cultural culinary partnerships could create memorable dining experiences that honoured both Lebanese and local Singaporean traditions.