Date Night #4: Burgers, beers & bright lights

This week’s date night was all about indulgence—juicy burgers, crispy tater tots, more craft beer and a city lit up in all its glory. We kicked things off at Honbo, a burger joint from Hong Kong, before taking a stroll through Light to Night 2025, an annual festival of stunning light projections and art installations in the Civic District. Here’s how it went…

Where?

• Honbo – 30 Victoria St, #01-06/07, CHIJMES, Singapore 187996
• Light to Night – Civic District

What?

The moment I heard about Honbo, a popular burger chain from Hong Kong, I knew we had to check it out. With my husband being from Hong Kong, anything that reminds him of home is an instant draw. And let’s be honest—I’ll never say no to a good burger (or any burger, for that matter!).

Honbo sits in CHIJMES, a stunning former church and school that now houses some of Singapore’s best dining spots. (Does anyone else instantly think of the Crazy Rich Asians wedding scene when they step in?!)

Honbo nails the classic American diner vibe—cozy booths, bar stool seating, and even a working jukebox spinning some great tunes to set the mood—without feeling overly polished or staged.

If you’re planning a visit to Honbo, the All-Day Burger Combo is the best way to go. You simply pay for your chosen burger plus $4.90 for a side and a drink—a solid deal, especially for Singapore.

• Double Cheeseburger ($24) – Jaw-dislocatingly big. Juicy. Juicy, messy, and not exactly the most romantic meal—but if you’re comfortable enough with your date, why not go all in?
• Tater Tots – Pure nostalgia in crispy, bite-sized form.
• Chili Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Spicy, crispy, and the only way Brussels sprouts should ever be served.
• Brewlander Beer (Local Craft Brewery) – Only two choices on tap, but at $10 a pint, the Freedom Lager was fresh, yeasty, and totally worth it.

Service was fast, and we ate even faster (though that’s on us—it was that good). But despite the generous portions, we somehow still felt like we could eat more. Maybe it was the “McDonald’s effect” (when a burger just doesn’t quite fill you up), or maybe it was just that delicious.

One thing to note: No desserts or milkshakes here. The menu makes that very clear with a cheeky reminder:
“No milkshakes. Grow up. Drink a beer.”
So… we did as we were told.

Also—don’t be fooled by the “insert coin” sign on the jukebox. It’s free to use! A fun date idea? Pick a song for each other and share why you chose it.

After stuffing ourselves, we took a walk through the Light to Night Festival in the Civc District. The highlight was the projections on The National Gallery. Watching the lights dance across the historic building, perfectly timed to music, was one of those silent appreciation moments—just standing together, taking it all in.

Would I make this the main event of a date night? Probably not. But as a post-dinner stroll? Absolutely. There’s something special about seeing the city you love lit up in such a magical way.

WOW tips:

• Go for the All-Day Burger Combo – best value for your meal.
• Play your tunes on the jukebox – it’s free!
• Order the chili crispy Brussels sprouts – spicy, crispy, delicious.
• Don’t wear white – these burgers are messy!
• Pair your burger with a Brewlander beer – great value and quality.
• Stop by the National Gallery for the best Light to Night projections, but only if you’re in the area! (Although tonight was the last night for 2025 – so you will have to wait until next year now!)

Worth it?

Another night of simple but excellent fun—burgers, beers and city lights. The kind of date night that never disappoints.

I’m giving it a 7/10—solid food, great vibes, but I could’ve used just one more bite!

What HE said…

“Cool jukebox, nice pint, and juicy burger—quality food as expected from my hometown.”

And as for Light to Night? He agreed that it was a nice addition but not the highlight of the night.

His rating: 8/10. (Finally! We don’t agree! Pretty sure the beer swayed him. 😂)

Wanna see?

For more photos, check out Instagram.

Wrap-up

Sometimes, the best date nights are the simplest—great food, good drinks, and a city that never fails to impress. Honbo delivered on the Hong Kong flavours, and Light to Night added that extra sparkle to the evening. While I’d definitely go back for the burgers and beer, the festival was more of a nice bonus than a must-see event.

Would you check out Honbo for your next date night? Let me know in the comments! And stay tuned for our next adventure next week. 😊