This week’s date night we blended something familiar with something new (for my husband!). We kicked things off with a classic comfort-food staple from my UK days—Nando’s—before heading to Films at the Fort, an outdoor cinema on the grassy slopes of Fort Canning Park.
What made it extra fun? My husband had never had Nando’s before. I know! After all these years together, it felt almost criminal. That alone made the evening feel like a milestone.
Where?
📍 Nando’s, Plaza Singapura
📍 Films at the Fort, Fort Canning Green
What?
Nando’s – a rite of passage
For anyone who grew up in the UK, Nando’s is practically woven into the culture. It’s where you’d go with uni mates, for casual birthdays, or just for a “cheeky Nando’s” that somehow always felt more exciting than just saying “dinner out.” The flame-grilled peri-peri chicken was (and still is) the star of the show.
So imagine my surprise when I realised my husband had never been. Not once. We had to put that right.
The Plaza Singapura branch has all the Nando’s hallmarks: warm orange lighting, rustic wooden furniture, bursts of colourful African-inspired art, and that unmistakable smoky-sweet smell of chicken on the grill. For me, it was nostalgic. For him, it was brand new.
We ordered a proper spread to give him the full experience:
* 1/4 chicken with hot peri-peri sauce, plus garlic bread and spicy rice – juicy, smoky, and fiery enough to make you sip your drink.
* Boneless thighs with mild sauce (my go-to), with peri-peri chips and spicy rice.
* Sauces on the side: garlic for me, wild herb for him—both perfect dips for chips or bread.
* To finish: a trio of desserts including bolo bola and the classic Portuguese custard tart.
The verdict? He liked it so much he now wants to try Nando’s in England. For me, the best part wasn’t the food itself (though it was as good as ever) but watching him experience it for the first time. Almost as satisfying as eating it myself.
Films at the Fort
Full and happy, we set off for the main event: Films at the Fort.
Fort Canning Park is one of Singapore’s most historic green spaces. Perched on a hill in the heart of the city, it’s been the site of Malay palaces, British military headquarters, and even a WWII bunker. These days, it’s a leafy retreat filled with giant rain trees, heritage trails, and open lawns.
Getting to Fort Canning Green isn’t just a stroll—you need to climb. Winding stone steps, shaded pathways and glimpses of old colonial gates make the short uphill trek feel like part of the adventure. By the time you reach the top, you really do feel like you’ve left the bustle of Orchard Road and stepped away from the city into another world.
At the summit, the Fort Canning Green spreads out: a broad, sloping lawn edged by towering trees. That night, fairy lights twinkled overhead, food stalls were buzzing, and the giant movie screen glowed softly as dusk fell. Groups were sprawled on picnic blankets, sharing cheese boards, pizzas, and wine. The whole place had a festival feel.
It’s the kind of setting that makes you take a deep breath and just go: yes, this is going to be good.
Attenborough under the stars
We’d booked tickets for David Attenborough’s Oceans, which felt perfect for an outdoor cinema. What better way to be reminded of the planet’s wonders than sitting under the night sky, surrounded by nature?
Each ticket came with a complimentary gin cocktail, and the food stalls had everything from wine and beer to pizza and charcuterie. Some people brought elaborate picnics (top tip: M&S was a popular choice).
We met up with friends and were very glad we’d booked backrests—absolute lifesavers on the slope. With those, our patch of grass felt less like “sitting on the ground” and more like “outdoor sofa.”
As darkness fell, Attenborough’s familiar voice filled the park. Vast coral reefs, blue whales and eerie deep-sea creatures filled the screen in stunning detail. Sitting there with the night breeze rustling the trees, surrounded by the quiet hush of hundreds of people, was magical. It was calming, beautiful and strangely moving—like being reminded of our small but special place in the world.
WOW Tips
⭐️ Book the backrests – comfort game-changer on the slope.
⭐️ Bring your own picnic (snacks from Plaza Singapura or M&S work great).
⭐️ Arrive early if you want prime spots on the lawn.
⭐️ Bug spray is essential – don’t learn the hard way.
⭐️ Wear comfy shoes for the climb—you’ll thank yourself later.
Worth it?
Me: 7/10.
Nando’s was nostalgic and fun, especially seeing the husband’s first-time reaction, and Films at the Fort is just such a unique Singapore experience. Food, nature, cinema—it ticked a lot of boxes.
What HE said…
“8/10. Finally tried Nando’s and I get what the fuss is all about. Outdoor cinema was great too—though I wish I’d remembered bug spray. It was a good idea to go get M&S snacks for the movie… even after a Nando’s”
Wrap-Up
Date Night #30 blended the familiar and the new. I got to share one of my favourite comfort foods, Scott finally had his first Nando’s, and we both experienced the magic of outdoor cinema at Fort Canning… again.
From peri-peri chicken to Attenborough’s oceans, it was proof that food and film can turn an ordinary night into something memorable.
Have you been to Films at the Fort? Drop me a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts. And stay tuned for Date Night #31…
Wanna see?
📸 For photos from the night, check out Instagram.
