The table that I sat at had ketchup stains. I placed my order and the waiter proceeded to lay out my utensils and paper napkins. After it was done, I said 'Thank you'. But there was no reply and no smile returned.

After I was done with my meal, I wanted to pay my bill. The waiters were crowded around the counter and having a chat. Even though I was seated directly opposite the counter table, none of them took notice. After waiting for five minutes, I walked up to one of the waiters and gave him my card, saying I would like to pay my bill.

No apologies. He took my card and proceeded to process the bill. He returned with the bill, I signed it, took my card back and said: 'Thank you.' Again, no reply and no smile.

While I do think it is not uncommon for F&B service staff in Singapore to not take pride in their work (considering that most of the waiters are paid peanuts), at the other end of the spectrum, I think there is the wonderful Fish & Co at Suntec City.

The two times I visited the place in recent weeks, I received fantastic service reminiscent of the great F&B service standards I was used to when I was studying in Australia.

The Fish & Co staff are bright, cheery and attentive. While having my fish and chips, my tartar sauce was replaced without me having to ask for it. I was greeted with a Happy New Year and a warm handshake when I left.

This is what I call exemplary service, something extremely rare in daily dining at Singapore eateries.

Jason Su ChengLong