Talk about the best prawn noodles in Singapore and you may be in for some heated argument hotter than the hae mee soup.

Some of the usual suspects include Da Dong Prawn Noodles (Joo Chiat), Jalan Sultan Prawn Mee, Whitley Road Prawn Noodles, Zion Road’s Fresh Taste Big Prawn Noodle, Blanco Court Prawn Mee (Beach Road), to River South (Hoe Nam) Prawn Noodles.

But people in the East is likely to give their vote to Beach Road Prawn Noodle House 美芝律大虾面.

This is one of those prawn noodles shops that is always swarming with customers.

People come here in buses, taxis, (some very expensive) cars, bikes or walk from the East Coast vicinity.

A little bit of fun-history: There used to be a famous Prawn Noodles stall at Beach Road, and this shop is apparently set up by the grandson of the founder. Other family members also opened Jalan Sultan Prawn Mee and Joo Chiat Prawn Mee, so they are kind of related.

While the queues are Beach Road Prawn Noodle House often quite long, they have a pretty efficient serving system where you can sit at the table and wait rather than standing in line.

You should get your food relatively fast.

Other than the most popular option of Jumbo Prawn Mee ($12), other choices include Prawn Noodles, Prawn with Pork Rib Mee, Pork Ribs Mee with Pig’s Tail, and Prawn with Pig’s Tail Mee – priced at $6, $9 or $12.

The place may be crowded, but I got a medium serving of their Dry Prawn Noodles (Small $5.80, Medium $8.80, Jumbo $11.80) within a couple of minutes.

The presentation was basic but the taste was quite exceptional.

The prawns were fresh, noodles, tossed in delicious chili sauce, fried with lard bits and fried shallots.

Soup version was flavourful with slight sweetness, without being overly intense. This is one of the few shops that does both versions relatively well.

Most established Prawn Noodle shops seem to sell deep-fried Ngoh Hiang and Fish Cakes on the side, this is no exception.

Delivery
Via foodpanda

Beach Road Prawn Noodle House
370 East Coast Road, Singapore 428981
Tel: +65 63457196
Opening Hours: 7am – 4pm (Mon, Wed – Sun), Closed Tues

Other Related Entries
10 Must-Try PRAWN NOODLES In Singapore
Jalan Sultan Prawn Mee (Geylang)
Whitley Road Prawn Noodles (Old Airport Road Food Centre)
Fresh Taste Big Prawn Noodle (Zion Road)
Da Shi Jia 大食家大大大虾面 (Killiney Road)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

To many foreigners, 328 Katong Laksa has become synonymous with “Katong Laksa”. It is so named “328” as it sounds like “prosperous” in Cantonese. (Also read: 10 Must-Try LAKSA In Singapore)

328 Katong Laksa has many branches throughout Singapore, but the one in East Roast Road is the most famous, especially after it was graced by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay himself.

During a Hawker Heroes cookoff challenge years ago, he ‘lost’ to 328 Katong Laksa’s founder Lucy (regulars call her Nancy) and son Ryan Koh. (There was a taste-test conducted for 1000 pax in the public.)

He commented that the laksa dish was hard to master, as there were too many variables involve from pasta, coconut, tofu to shrimps.

The store was also previously awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for consecutive 2 years, but was dropped off in subsequent years.

Over at the outlet at 216 East Coast Road, the walls are adorned with posters of celebrities.

Its signature Laksa needs little introduction, cooked with a Peranakan-based recipe passed down for generations (Janggut Laksa is said to be the original), known for that aromatic and spicy coconut based gravy.

The other defining ingredients include fish cakes, shrimps, hum (cockles) and laksa leaves.

For first timers, note that there are no chopsticks or fork given for your consumption, only a spoon.

The thick vermicelli is cut into shorter strands, meant to be slurped up with only a spoon for a more better eating experience.

Albeit a bit pricey, their Laksa ($5.50 for a small serving) can be upgraded by paying $2 extra.

Most fans would say this used to taste much better in the past. Also perhaps portion has gotten less, and standard differs across various outlets, especially those in malls.

There is still something special about the gravy here – the balance of coconut flavour, richness, and freshness and sweetness of seafood.

Other than the Laksa, the other popular items to look out for include the Curry Chicken, and Nasi Lemak. I think another must-add is also the Otah Otah.

328 Katong Laksa
216 East Coast Road, Singapore 428914
Tel: +65 9732 8163
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm (Mon – Sun)

Other Related Entries
10 Must-Try LAKSA In Singapore
928 Yishun Laksa (Yishun)
Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa (Hong Lim Food Centre)
Janggut Laksa (Queensway)
Sungei Road Laksa (Jalan Berseh)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

This food guide is for the zi char lovers.

These 15 top zi char restaurants are some of Singapore’s favourites, providing satisfying and affordable dishes full of wok-hei that you can enjoy at the comfort of home.

You can now dine-in as well – limited to a table of 5 pax max, while practicing safe distancing of at least 1m apart for “Phase 2”.

The added bonus?

OCBC 365 Credit Cardmembers can now enjoy 10% cashback* (up from 6% cashback previously) when you order from any of these selected popular zi char places for takeaway, delivery (if available) or dine-in (limited to 5 per table).

Valid only from now till 31 July 2020, so time to order that zi char feast for your family. Here’s more:

White Restaurant
3 Punggol Point Road, #01-10, Singapore 828694
30 Sembawang Drive, #03-12, Sunplaza, Singapore 757713
78 Airport Boulevard #B1-245- 246 Singapore 819666
2 Jurong East Street 21, #02- 24, Singapore 609601
3 Temasek Boulevard Suntec City, Fountain Court, #B1-131 Singapore 038983

White Restaurant is best known for its simple yet satisfying White Bee Hoon, originally prepared as a homely dish by their founder Mr Tay.

But they don’t only sell that one iconic dish.

There are other chef recommended food to go along, including Cereal Prawns, Signature Beancurd with Minced Pork, Homemade Fried Beancurd, Salted Egg Squid, Prawn Omelette, and Sambal Sweet Potato Leaves.

End off with a dessert of Yam Paste with Gingko, because why not?

Signature dish – The Original White Bee Hoon
From the same recipe when they first started out as a hawker stall at Chong Pang Market, the Original White Bee Hoon is known for its generous ingredients such as squid and prawns, and vermicelli steeped in flavourful broth for a taste of comfort.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via online: order.whiterestaurant.com.sg, or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Keng Eng Kee Seafood
124 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01- 136, Singapore 150124

Perhaps this needs little introduction. Keng Eng Kee located near Alexandra Village Food Centre is one of those zi char places in Singapore that serves up tasty service AND with good service.

There are a number of dishes that regulars order from this Michelin-recommended restaurant.

The most talked-about dish is the Moonlight Horfun, along with Mingzhu Roll, Prawn Roll, Yam Basket, Coffee Pork Ris, Claypot Pig Liver, Marmite Chicken, and Salted Egg Sotong.

Do you know that they were also featured in Netflix’s “Street Food”?

Signature dish – Moonlight Horfun
The photographic dish where an egg yolk is crack in the middle of wok-fried rice noodles, thus the name.

It reminds me of a cross between dark-sauced fried horfun (like beef rice noodles without the beef) and the local char kway teow especially with the addition of dried lup cheong (Chinese sausages). Give it a good mix before you enjoy.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6272 1038
(payment onsite); or
2. Pre-order online: order.kek.com.sg; or
3. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

New Ubin Seafood*
CHIJMES – 30 Victoria St, #02- 01B/C Singapore 187996
Tampines – 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent, #01-16 Singapore 528605
Zhongshan Park – 16 Ah Hood Road Singapore 329982

New Ubin Seafood is considered as one of Singapore’s favourite zi char restaurant, and has also been listed in the Michelin Bib Gourmand for 2 consecutive years.

Known for its unique dishes such as US Black Angus Ribeye Beef, Heart Attack Fried Rice, Boss Bee Hoon, Chocolate Alexander, Fish Roe Masala, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Satay Foie Gras, and BBQ Pork Collar, it has a new flagship outlet at Tampines.

Signature dish – USDA Choice Black Angus Ribeye
That’s right. A zi char restaurant with good steak.

Succulent, bold-flavoured beef pieces, served together with caramelised onions, Idaho potato wedges, sea salt flakes, and my favourite… fried rice cooked with beef drippings.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in/WhatsApp: 9740 6870 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)
* Exclusive to pre-order/order at outlet only.

Long Ji Zi Char*
253 Outram Road, Singapore 169049

Regulars come here for the Crab Bee Hoon – certainly one of the best in Singapore, but let us not forget about their Chilli Crab, Salted Egg Crabs, and Black Pepper Crab.

While the environment speaks of old-school Chinese restaurant charm, its no-nonsense appetising food is what keeps customers returning.

Signature dish – Crab Bee Hoon
The appeal is the robustly appealing gravy, cooked with crabs, cabbage and oyster sauce with a peppery aroma.

Both the beehoon and gravy are in a light brown colour. That is because Chef would fry the vermicelli all the way till almost to a point of getting burnt. Plus point, no MSG or chicken powder are used in the stock.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 9790 5682 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)
* Exclusive to pre-order/order at outlet only.

Por Kee Eating House 1996 (Seng Poh Lane)
69 Seng Poh Lane #01-02 Singapore 160069

This zi char restaurant at Tiong Bahru which has stood the test of time has been a favourite for many, especially for family meals.

There is also that nostalgic charm about this place and its food.

It is hard to choose a favourite from Por Kee’s signature dishes, from the likes of the Champagne Pork Ribs, Homemade Beancurd, Cereal Prawns, Crispy Butter Prawns, to Yam Basket with Chicken and Shrimp.

Signature dish – Homemade Beancurd
My personal favourite goes to the Homemade Beancurd with Mushrooms. While deep fried, the inside remains very smooth and silky, poured over by a flavourful sauce with power wok-hei.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6221 0582 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Mellben Seafood (Ang Mo Kio)
232 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3 #01- 1222 Singapore 560232

Located at Ang Mo Kio, the family-run Mellben Seafood has established itself as a well-known seafood destination in Singapore.

Choose from any of the 15 ways their in-house chef freshly prepares the star crustacean, from the classic Chili Crab to Black Pepper Crab, Butter Crab, Curry Sauce Crab, Salted Egg Yolk Crab, Shimmering Sands Crab, Claypot Crab Vermicelli Soup, Laksa Crab, and many more.

Signature dish – Chilli Crab, Claypot Crab Bee Hoon Soup
Hard to choose, but both the Chilli Crab and the Claypot Crab Bee Hoon Soup aka Claypot Crab Vermicelli Soup are the must-try.

Served piping hot, the milky broth is rich and aromatic with its inherently sweet crabs and smooth glass noodles.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6285 6762 / 9232 3449 / 9450 7301 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Kelly Jie Seafood (Formerly TPY Mellben)*
Blk 211 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 #01-11/15, Singapore 310211

Located next to Toa Payoh Lor 8 Food Centre, Kelly Jie used to be known as Mellben Toa Payoh, but manager Kelly and Chef Mun have branched out on their own.

Some of its favourites include Shimmering Sand Crab, ‘Kan Xiang’ Mee Tai Mek, Kelly Signature Salted Egg Fried Rice, Yue Guang Hor Fun aka Moonlight Horfun, Italian Style Fried Rice, Longevity Noodles, and “Yuan Yang” Crispy Fried Rice.

The restaurant also offers convenient set meals for the family, which includes 3 types of seafood or meat, and 1 vegetable.

Signature dish – Claypot Crab Vermicelli Soup
The Claypot Crab Vermicelli Soup of vermicelli served in a luscious, savoury thick milky broth with seafood flavours of the crab.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6353 3120 / 8123 4156 / 9234 0107 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)
* Exclusive to pre-order/order at outlet only.

Sin Hoi Sai Seafood Restaurant (Tiong Bahru Road)
Blk 55 Tiong Bahru Road #01- 59 Singapore 160055

Located near the Tiong Bahru residential area, Sin Hoi Sai is known for its spacious laid-back surroundings and Singaporean seafood dishes.

The offer a range of live seafood, from different types of fish to shellfish, and you can simply pick what you want from the aquarium tanks.

Must-try is their famous Chili Crab and Black Pepper Crab, while other styles such as Deep-Fried Crab with Chinese Wine, Salted Egg Crab, Butter Crab, Black Bean Sauce Crab, and Spring Onion & Ginger Crab are available.

Signature dish – Pig Trotters Bee Hoon
Because it is a dish that is getting harder to find, and Sin Hoi Sai makes a rather house-style and much saucier version than the usual.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6223 0810 / 6224 3905 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Sum Kee Food
No.2, Telok Blangah Street 31, Yeo’s Building Singapore 108942
19 Yung Ho Road Singapore 618592

A restaurant that looks like it is caught in time, but can be considered a hidden gem as both outlets are not in plain sight – one at Yeo’s Building, the other at Taman Jurong.

Its food, from Curry Fish Head, XO Sum Lor Horfun, Pig Trotter Beehoon to Braised London Duck, is enough to make people go that extra mile.

Signature dish – Ultra Man Chicken
This is actually a play on the words “xian dan” which sounds both like salted egg and Ultra Man.

A dish of fried, boneless chicken pieces coated in ‘golden’ salted egg sauce with a crispy, addictive touch.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in:
• Telok Blangah – 6737 3233 / 6333 8556
• Jurong – 6873 3069 (payment onsite); or
2. Pre-order online: sumkee.oddle.me; or
3. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat
812 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198779

Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat is one of the oldest and most authentic fish head steamboat restaurants found in Singapore.

It is located at an old shophouse at the corner of North Bridge Road and Jalan Sultan, and also serves up other dishes such as Fried Fritters, Homemade Beancurd, Salted Egg Bittergourd and Prawn Paste Chicken Wings.

Signature dish – Fish Steamboat
Only charcoal and not the conventional gas-stove is used for the steamboat, freshly prepared upon order.

The fish comes with choices of grouper, pomfret, Song fish or red snapper, then cooked the classic Teochew way.

Ingredients added include fried yam, mushrooms, chye sim, white cabbage, spring onion and beancurd.

No milk is included and so the sweet-tasting and cloudy soup is purely cooked from the fish, bones and ingredients. Rich and slurp-worthy.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 8613 2732 (payment onsite); or
2. Pre-order online: nanhwachong.com.sg; or
3. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Tasty Loong by Chef Pung
50 Tiong Bahru Road #01-04 Singapore 168733
81 Lor Chencharu Orto Park Singapore 769198

Tasty Loong by Chef Pung 龙鲜阁 located at both Link Hotel (Tiong Bahru) and Orto Park (Yishun) is helmed by award winning celebrity chef, Chef Pung Lu Tin (He regularly appears in Channel 8’s TV programmes).

What you get is a menu of traditional Chinese dishes with a touch of modern creativity.

You won’t just get the usual dishes here, and expect the likes of Fried White and Brown Rice with Caviar and Sea Treasures, Stewed Rice Vermicelli with Seafood and Supreme Stock in Opeh Leaf, Charcoal Tofu with Minced Pork and Dried Shrimps, to Trio Sauce Chicken in Hot Stone Pot.

Signature dish – Crispy “Dong Tok” Roasted Chicken
Some ‘drama’ in the roasting of the chicken. Rose rice wine is poured over the hanging poultry before setting it to flame.

This gives the outer skin a pleasant crispy texture, and fragrant wine aroma.

Don’t worry about getting your hands dirty as the chicken would be chopped out so you can slowly savour its juicy meat.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in:
• Yishun – 6757 7887
• Tiong Bahru – 6909 5700 (payment onsite); or
2. Pre-order online: tastyloong.com; or
3. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Uncle Leong Signatures/ Seafood*
83 Punggol Central, #B1-21 Waterway Point, Singapore 828761
6 Tebing Lane, #01-03, Punggol East, Singapore 828835
368 Alexandra Road, Anchorpoint Shopping Centre, Singapore 159952

First founded in a neighbourhood coffeeshop in Ang Mo Kio, Uncle Leong Seafood has expanded and that includes full-fledged seafood restaurants at Punggol, Waterway Point and Anchorpoint Shopping Centre.

The family-style concept is known for its Shimmering Sand Crab, Salted Egg Crab, Hong Kong Style Typhoon Shelter Crab, Claypot Crab Bee Hoon Soup, Golden Pumpkin Prawns, and Salted Egg Prawns. Great for seafood lovers.

Signature dish – Claypot Crab Bee Hoon Soup
Its Claypot Crab Bee Hoon Soup (seasonal price) contains broth which is simmered for hours, flavourful and sweet with natural goodness from the crustaceans.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in:
• Waterway Point – 6385 9989
• Punggol East – 6441 1848
• Anchorpoint – 6259 9861 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)
* Exclusive to pre-order/order at outlet only.

Geylang Claypot Rice
361/363/365 Beach Road Singapore 199576

Do not be confused, Geylang Claypot Rice has moved from Geylang Lor 33, and is now located at 361 Beach Road (opposite The Concourse).

From a humble coffeeshop space, it is now a modern swanky restaurant with 3 shop spaces.

Founded by Mr. Ng Kim Hock, Geylang Claypot Rice has been in business for more than 30 years.

Signature dish – Claypot Rice
Considered by many as one of the most popular in Singapore, Geylang Claypot Rice is also the last few ones that still uses charcoal to cook the rice.

Each pot is served with toppings of pork belly, bits of salted mackerel fish, well-marinated chicken, two types of lup cheong (Chinese sausages), and fresh vegetables.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6744 4574 (payment onsite); or
2. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Good Chance Restaurant
1 Jalan Berseh, #01-15 New World Centre, Singapore 209037

One of the few popiah plus zi char speciality restaurants. The popiah (otherwise called “spring roll”) is a traditional dish from Xia Men, and the founder Mr Hou learnt his culinary skills and recipe from his parents.

Good Chance Restaurant is now helmed by the 3rd generation owners, serving up a range of home-style dishes such as Ah Gong Seafood Vermicelli, Home Made Prawn Rolls and Prawn Paste Chicken Mid Wing.

Signature dish – DIY Popiah
The Hokkien Popiah style with a twist, the main “mang guang” fillings is included with cabbage, turnip, carrot, bamboo shoot, leek, dried tofu, French bean.

Some shrimps are also added to enhance the sweetness and fragrance.

Lay the skin, fill it up, do your own wrapping, and customise with home-made sauces such as the chilli and garlic paste, minced peanut and other condiments. Kind of fun for the family.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 8823 6363 (payment onsite); or
2. Pre-order online: goodchance.com.sg; or
3. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

B.K. Forture Seafood 得运海鲜火锅
885 / 887 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 279896

No, there is no typo error there. This zi char restaurant is called B.K Fortune with a “r” for better fengshui and luck.

Families love this place for its Assam Fish Head, fresh and chunky fish drenched in spicy and sour assam gravy to whet the appetite.

Other favourites include the Cereal Prawns, Coffee Pork Ribs, Herbal Chicken, Mongolian-style Beef, Thai-style Fish Head, Red Wine Pork Ribs to Home-style Beancurd.

Signature dish – Yam Ring
One of those traditional Chinese dishes that is getting harder to find now due to the effort needed to prepare, this consist of crispy yam ring with smooth paste, filled with ingredients of prawns, baby corn and crunchy cashew nuts.

Order channel
1. Pre-order via call in: 6469 5957 (payment onsite); or
2. Pre-order online: https://fortureseafood.oddle.me/; or
3. Order at outlet (Takeaway or limited dine-in options)

Enjoy 10% Cashback with Zi Char Delights
OCBC 365 Credit Cardmembers can now enjoy 10% cashback when you takeaway or dine at the above “Top 15 Zi Char Restaurants”.

In addition, there are other benefits such as 6% cashback on dining & online food delivery; 3% cashback on groceries, land transport, utilities and online travel; up to 22.1% fuel savings at Caltex and more.

T&C:
– To enjoy the above cashback, OCBC 365 Credit Cardmembers need to spend a minimum of $800 based on posted transactions in a calendar month.
– Promotion period shall run from 12 June 2020 to 31 July 2020 (both dates inclusive).
– Cashback amount is capped at S$80 per calendar month.
– Other T&C applies here

For more OCBC 365 Credit Card benefits and details, head over to: https://www.ocbc.com/personal-banking/cards/365-cashback-credit-card

* This post is brought to you in partnership with OCBC 365 Credit Card.

Kampong Gelam (sometimes spelt as “Kampong Glam”) is where you go for diverse variety of food with rich culture.

Fun fact: Kampong means “village”, and do you know that the name “Gelam” is derived from the Gelam trees (Melaleuca cajuputi) which grew in the area?

For first time visitors, I would recommend you starting your tour with the landmark Sultan Mosque to explore the colourful streets and sights.

Then move on to find vibrant shops, restaurants and indie cafes along Haji Lane, Arab Street, Baghdad Street and Bussorah Street, and these have become favourite places for people to take their #ootd Instagram shots.

In terms of food, you can find local delicacies such as Nasi Padang (such as the Michelin-recommended Hjh Maimunah Restaurant and Catering), Nasi Lemak (SoulFood Catering), Malay kueh and coffeeshops for a fragrant cup of teh tarik.

(Discover the Flavours of Kampong Gelam. Click video above for the wide variety of halal food in Kampong Gelam.)

There is also a wide variety of Halal international food, from Swedish cuisine (Fika Swedish Cafe and Bistro), Japanese (The Ramen Stall, Waku Waku) to Mexican fare (Afterwit Mexican Taqueria).

Here are the 10 restaurants that can be found at Kampong Gelam, as featured in the video above:

Fika Swedish Cafe and Bistro
257 Beach Road, Singapore 199539
Tel: +65 6396 9096
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

For Swedish Food, Pastries and Those Delicious Meatballs
Established for over 10 years in Singapore, Fika is one of the few places which offers Halal and hearty Scandinavian fare and desserts in a relaxed bright environment.

“My meatballs are the best Halal ones you will find in Singapore”, co-owner Tasneem Noor could be right.

She opened this Nordic-inspired café as an extension of her love for Scandinavian things, and it is a great place for a gathering with friends and family.

I enjoyed the all-beef Swedish Meatballs ($19) of home-made beef meatballs with baby potatoes, served with lingonberry jam drizzled with creamy homemade sauce.

If you have room for more, do try the Korvstroganoff ($15) which is a creamy tomato-based chicken sausage stew service with sautéed seasonal vegetables and rice; Pytt i Panna ($19.90) which is Swedish Hash made of potatoes with sautéed diced black angus beef cubes; and Toast Skagen ($18) – a cold salmon roe and fresh water shrimp open-faced sandwich on toasted artisan bread.

Alaturka Mediterranean & Turkish Restaurant
15 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199436
Tel: +65 6294 0304
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm (Mon – Sun)

Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in Kampong Gelam
Located right in the heart of historic Kampong Glam, Alaturka Mediterranean & Turkish Restaurant has been serving classic Turkish dishes along with new interpretations for 15 years.

Its quality was also met with approval, when it was once listed in the Michelin Guide Singapore with a “Bib Gourmand”.

Some of the dishes you can look forward to include the Tas Kebab ($27.80) which is an oven-baked beef stew with mashed potatoes; Makarna, a Turkish-style pasta covered with vegetable sauce, mozzarella cheese and topping of your choice.

One of the highlights is the Karisik Kebab, a feast platter of succulent beef, lamb and chicken kebabs ideal for sharing, served with butter rice and a generous portion of vegetable salad.

Don’t forget to end with sweet treats of Kunefe made of thin vermicelli pastry baked in soft cheese and sweet syrup, and of course the Baklava filled with chopped pistachios in light filo layers.

The Ramen Stall
787 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198755
Tel: +65 6655 0800
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 11pm (Mon – Thurs), 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 2am (Fri), 11am – 2am (Sat), 11am – 11pm (Sun)

Halal Japanese Spread To Satisfy Late-Night Cravings
While the outlet at North Bridge Road is called The Ramen Stall, the offerings are a lot more than just noodles, with a wide range of appetizers, sushi, sashimi, kushiyaki, gohan and desserts.

The Japanese dishes served are generally adapted to the local palate.

The chicken-based soup is prepared much lighter and milder, still cooked under high heat for 20 hours to achieve the milky-texture and flavours.

No artificial flavouring, no MSG, no salt, no sugar added. The slight saltiness comes from the meat and kombu dashi, while the sweetness is due to the addition of corn and vegetables.

You can also go for the Dry Ramen, available in spicy or non-spicy versions. This is like a cross between the Japanese Ramen, Indonesian Bakmi and local minced meat noodles.

Mix up with the shoyu marinated chicken cha shu, braised egg, and the cucumber strips and spring onions would add some crunch on every bite.

Tipo Pasta Bar
785 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198753
Tel: +65 8768 0785
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Handmade Italian Pasta with a Twist Of Flavours
The name Tipo came about from “Tipo 00”, a type of smooth wheat flour also known as “doppio zero” or “granero tero” which originates from Italy.

The pasta-café serves up hand-crafted pasta with various permutations such as Dill & Lemon Fettuccine and Saffron Fusilli, all at a rather affordable price of $13.90 to $15.90 for their recommended combinations.

Diners can also customise pasta dishes from $9.90 (100g) and $12.90 (150g) onwards.

If making pasta choices seem too hair-splitting for you, then go for the standard choices of Royal Ragu ($15.90), Creamy Chicken & Mushroom ($14.90), Prawn Aglio ($15.90), Seafood Slam Pomodoro ($19.90) or Full Vegan ($13.90).

The well-lived choice is the Crazy Carbonara ($15.90), toped with smoked duck and sous vide egg for a creamy finish.

Soulfood Catering
13 Pahang Street, Singapore 198614
Opening Hours: 12pm – 9pm (Tues – Thurs), 12pm – 10pm (Fri – Sat)

Aussie-Style BBQ Meets Traditional Malay Nasi Lemak
Soulfood Catering is a family-run Aussie BBQ Nasi Lemak food stall in a coffee shop, and it is located in the fringe of Kampong Gelam at Pahang Street.

From Paprika & Herbs Chicken Wing Nasi Lemak, Bangers & Hash Nasi Lemak, Eggs Benny Nasi Lemak, BBQ Prawns Nasi Lemak, to Steak Nasi Lemak, you know you can expect original combinations that cannot be found elsewhere here.

Its makcik-approved Surf & Turf Nasi Lemak ($21.90) is the most popular, a filling plate of BBQ ribeye steak, scallops and prawns, with homemade creamy garlic sauce drizzled on fragrant rice.

This is also available in a family-platter size meant for 2 to 4 pax, included with ribeye steak, BBQ chicken rillet or 1/4 chicken, BBQ prawns, scallops, lemon garlic prawn skewers with Nasi Lemak and that sauce tantalising sauce.

Afterwit Mexican Taqueria
778 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198746
Tel: +65 8816 9481
(Closed temporary till August 2020)

Hearty Mexican Dishes With Artisanal Coffee
This is not your typical Mexican food place, as you can find hearty items such as Butter Chicken Burrito, Cajun Spiced Chicken Tacos, and Tom Yum Shrimp Quesadillas on its menu.

Afterwit Mexican Taqueria offers Mexican dishes such as Pulled Beef Tacos and Muchos Nachos more, but diners also come here for something more exciting on the palate.

The Chipotle Chicken Burrito is one of the recommended items, with spiced chicken and Mexican tomato rice drizzled with spicy chipotle salsa accompanied by fresh slaw, black beans, guacamole and pico de gallo (a type of salsa fresca).

They are undergoing renovations now, and is likely to return in August with a brand-new look and interior. Stay tuned.

Rumah Makan Minang
18 & 18A Kandahar Street, Singapore 198884
Tel: +65 6977 7064
Opening Hours: 9am – 6pm (Mon – Sun)

Halal Indonesian Eatery Serving Minangkabau Cuisine
Founded way back in 1954, this Halal Indonesian restaurant specialises in reasonably priced Minangkabau cuisine, namely Nasi Padang and Beef Rendang.

Their flagship outlet is located at Kandahar Street near Sultan Mosque.

Many diners head to the restaurant for a hearty plate of Nasi Padang – steamed rice served with various choices of cooked dishes.

Most would add a dish of Beef Rendang of succulent beef cooked over slow charcoal fire; or Ayam Belado Hijau – tender chicken in signature green chilli marinate.

The Sotong Masak Hitam – fresh marinated squid in a tangy dark soy gravy; Ikan Belado Hijau – fried mackerel in signature green chilli marinate; and Sayur Lodeh of mixed vegetables boiled soft, spiced and flavoured will also add fiery kicks to your meal.

If you have space, do order the Indonesian Tahu Telur, a dish of large fried tofu mixed with eggs, grated peanuts with addictive dark sweet soy sauce. Sedap lah.

Sabar Menanti II
747 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198715
Tel: +65 6291 0109
Opening Hours: 6am – 4:30pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon

Well-Loved Malay Restaurant Serving Minangkabau Dishes
This restaurant at North Bridge Road is named “Sabar Menanti” which really means “wait patiently”.

That is because people do need to queue and wait to try some of its authentic Minangkabau dishes which originated from West Sumatra, Indonesia.

The family-run business has been around for more than 50 years, and now managed by the founder’s children.

For breakfast, people head for the comforting items of Nasi Lemak, Mee Siam, Mee Rebus and Lontong with sayor lodeh, tahu and signature sambal tumis.

Also popular are its Nasi Padang which you can add ingredients such as beef rendang, bagedil, ikan bilis kacang and egg omelette; and Nasi Ambeng with fluffy white rice.

M.A Deen Biasa
95/97 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 198998
Tel: +65 6392 2712
Opening Hours: 24 Hours

House of Soup Tulang
Perhaps you never had Soup Tulang (or Sup Tulung) before, and Kampong Gelam is THE place to find eateries and hawker stalls serving this dish.

Soup Tulang consists of meaty mutton bones in a spicy and vibrant red gravy, which you can soak up with slices of bread.

But the main star are those bone marrows contained within the bone, which you can suck up using straws or by ‘knocking’ them the plate to get it out.

M.A Deen Biasa is one of the popular places to get it as it is opened 24/7, with various portions priced at $10, $20, $30 and $50 for the large.

There are also hearty Muslim dishes such as Nasi Goreng Ikan Billis, Maggi Goreng Chicken, Mutton or Chicken Briyani, Murtabak, and other wok-fried items such as Butter Prawns and Cashew Chicken for sharing here.

FatPapas Burgers and Shakes
17 Bali Lane, Singapore 189853
Tel: +65 6291 8028
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Sun – Thurs), 12pm – 10:30pm (Fri – Sat)

American-style Burgers, Ribs, Shakes And More
Fatpapas is a family diner where you can find your favourite burgers, BBQ Beef Ribs, and Salmon on Greens – for those who want something healthier.

Set up by celebrity Sheikh Haikel and the creators of Fatboys’, FatPapas is that same unforgettable taste but made halal.

The Country Fried Steak ($19.90) is one of the hot favourites and it is also because of this very dish, FatPapas was born (As Sheikh Haikel was determined to make his favourite dish from Fatboys’ Halal.)

What you get is tender cube steak coated in herbed seasoning, cooking till crisp, and topped with cheesy bechamel sauce.

For burger lovers, you can go for the Wimpy ($15.00) with a choice of housemade Australian chunk tender beef (or lamb), turkey bacon, melted aged cheddar, and fried egg with BBQ sauce smothered over.

From the colourful Haji Lane to Bussorah Street, foodies and shopaholics can also check out hipster cafes (%Arabica Coffee, All Things Delicious, Julie Bakes), multi-label stores, fashionable boutiques as well as souvenir shops.

Don’t forget to hashtag #VisitKampongGelam and #KampongGelamUnited in your instagram posts.

* This post is brought to you by Fyreflyz, and supported by Visit Singapore: Passion Made Possible and One Kampong Gelam (OKG).

Chilli Crab is one of the iconic “national dish” of Singapore, characterised by that sweet, spicy and savoury sauce.

You would find this chilli crab sauce component being added to pasta, buns to tendon, and “Chilli Crab Pasta” is becoming a popular localised dish you can find in many cafes around.

Something we can say is quite “uniquely Singapore”.

Here are 9 places you can find Chilli Crab Pasta in Singapore:

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens
1 Cluny Road, Ginger Garden Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 259569
Tel: +65 8444 1148
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm (Mon – Thurs), 10am – 9pm (Fri – Sun)

Tucked within the lush foliage of the Ginger Garden, The Halia at the Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the first restaurants in Singapore to showcase modern European cuisine with Asian influences.

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens was one of the very first to pioneer the signature Chilli Crab Spaghettini ($26), all the way back in 2005.

Inspired by the famous Singaporean dish, the chefs found the right balance of keeping the spiciness level manageable for international guests, while not losing its flavours of sweet and tangy.

Le Fusion
The Pier at Robertson, 80 Mohamed Sultan Rd, #01-7 8/9, Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 6363 9966
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Sun)

Lè Fusion is a modern Chinese cuisine restaurant and bar in the hip Mohamed Sultan area, located near the iconic Singapore River.

What I enjoyed about their Soft Shell Chilli Crab Pasta ($26) was that there were many pieces of crispy soft shell crabs (and not just one or two) and the pasta was al dente with a chewy bite.

Sauce was not too spicy at all, with the right amount of consistency after a good toss.

Note: They also serve up a Trio Pasta ($34), a 3-in-1 pasta dish crafted three ways which showcases green pesto, red chili crab, and black squid ink flavours. The chilli crab part is still my favourite.

Rayz Bistro
62 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199478
Tel: +65 6352 6651
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 11pm (Tues – Thurs, Sun), 11:30am – 12am (Fri – Sat), Closed Mon

The Halal dining place seems to be able to capture the sweet spot with the provision of Western favourites and Asian comfort food, in an almost-hipster environment.

The Chilli Crab Pasta ($15.90) with generous servings of jumbo crab meat and trout roe, complete with a flowy poached egg, was tastily spicy.

Nassim Hill Bakery & Bistro
56 Tanglin Rd, #01-03, Singapore 247964
Tel: +65 6835 1128
Opening Hours: 8am – 10pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon

Nassim Hill Bakery’s Chilli Crab Pasta ($17, $25 for full size) is one for those who like spice, with spaghetti cooked in glorious, homemade chilli crab sauce.

The sauce is stir-fried with chilli padi, bringing out the spice and flavour, with a hint of sweetness.

The pasta dish is then topped with generous portion of jumbo lump crab meat.

Tip: Order some fries to mop up the remaining sauce.

Eatz19
Tampines Walk, Our Tampines Hub #01-84, Singapore 529684
Tel: +65 6222 2006
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Running successfully for more than 20 years, this Halal-certified restaurant serves up Western dishes such as pastas with Eastern flavours.

The pasta dishes are included with interesting flavours from teriyaki, tom yam, sambal, curry, Szechuan, to chilli crab.

Featured in “Our Makan Places: Lost and Found”, I can see why the Soft-Shell Chili Crab ($12.80) comes highly recommended.

It was a moderately fiery dish of pasta cooked with fresh chili padi and zesty tomato paste, included with crisp soft-shell crab. Just check out the size of that crab.

Good to know: This social enterprise restaurant is employing, supporting, and training women from all walks of life who face challenges at work and at home.

Carrara
2 Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-5148, Singapore 150002
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 9:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 11:30am – 10pm (Fri – Sat)

Carrara’s signature Chilli Crabs Pasta ($17.90) offers a variety of seafood such as prawns, white clams, squid and blue swimmer crab meat, instead of the usual deep-fried soft shell crab.

The crab meat is sautéed with butter to give it a buttery fragrance.

The pasta sauce contained generous amounts of silky egg beaten into the homemade chilli sauce to give it more texture.

I also noted that it didn’t have that much sauce as it was a drier version, but didn’t quite mind it as the pasta was still very flavourful.

Refuel II
28 Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 152028
Tel: +65 6265 7368
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm (Mon – Sun)

Refuel Café can be found at 744 Bedok Reservoir Road and 28 Jalan Bukit Merah, but this dish is only available at the Bukit Merah branch.

The Double Chilli Crab Pasta ($14.90) is called “double” because there are both flaky crab meat and crispy soft shell crab, in a spicy, creamy and eggy tomato base sauce. Good to know that the soft shell crab is first fried with a special spice coating.

Noticed that they gave quite a lot of sauce, and it was strong in flavours, from the tomato-tanginess, sweetness, to the spicy kick.

Would have preferred chunkier crab meat for better bite and a lighter sauce, but it is a not-bad version for its price point.

Wheeler’s Yard
28 Lor Ampas, Singapore 328781
Tel: +65 6254 9128
Opening Hours: 10:30pm – 3pm, 5pm – 9pm (Tues – Fri), 10:30am – 9pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon

Wheeler’s Yard is the ‘world’ where bicycles, coffee, food and all things vintage meet.

Located right along the Whampoa park connector, this is the ‘hidden’ cafe cum bicycle workshop, known for the entrance where almost every visitor would take that token #OOTD shot.

The Chilli Crab Pasta ($18.90) which was introduced as a National Day special became a big hit with customers, and was subsequently added permanently into the menu.

Using real crab meat and egg, the sauce was cooked with the right amount of sweetness and spiciness, served with a whole softshell crab.

GRUB
510 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Singapore 569983 (Within Bishan – Ang Mo Kio Park)
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 10pm (Sat – Sun)

GRUB located in the scenic Bishan Park, is known for its Western style dishes with a local twist.

Its Chilli Crab Pasta ($19) contained linguine tossed in spicy chili crab sauce, topped with one whole crispy soft-shelled crab.

The sauce was towards the spicy side, with no tomato sauce added.

Other Related Entries
10 Must-Try CHILLI CRABS In Singapor
10 Must-Try KAMPONG GELAM Halal Restaurants
10 Outstanding ONDEH ONDEH Cakes In Singapore
10 Best Fish and Chips In Singapore
10 Tasty TRUFFLE FRIES In Singapore

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

As one nation of food lovers who enjoy congregating over food, we find no better way of celebrating than to feast on delicious meals with good deals.

This National Day, many restaurants are also coming up with Singapore Specials, from Bak Kut Teh Xiao Long Bao, Baked Chilli Crab Casserole, to Durian Penyat Pancakes.

Plus, ChopeDeals’ National Day Sale brings foodies great discounts.

Get as much as $55 off by taking $5.50 off your next 10 purchases when you pay with DBS PayLah! (Use code “SG55”. A minimum spend of $35 per order is required.)

Save big time at more than 800 dining joints all over Singapore, including Violet Oon Singapore, Chatterbox, Extra Virgin Pizza, Vatos Urban Tacos, Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill, REDPAN, Godmama, Yàn, Alter Ego, Providore, and Wine & Chef.

Hurry as this promo runs only from 3 to 9 August 2020. Here’s more:

Chatterbox
333 Orchard Road Level 5, Mandarin Orchard Hotel Singapore 238867
Opening Hours: 11am – 11pm (Mon – Sun)

Known as the home of the legendary Mandarin Chicken Rice, Chatterbox is an award-winning Asian cuisine restaurant offering all-day dining. Singapore Prestige Brand has awarded it the Hall of Fame distinction as a Heritage Brand.

Do not miss out on its popular signature dishes like Chatterbox Lobster Laksa ($38), King Prawn Fried Hokkien Noodles ($28), Char Kway Teow ($28), and Salted Egg Chicken Wing ($20).

For seafood lovers, the Chatterbox Signature Lobster Laksa ($38) gives you a whole Boston lobster.

This laksa comprises thick rice vermicelli, quail eggs, chunks of fish cake, and dried beancurd all blended in a spicy coconut gravy.

Special: Mandarin Hainanese Chicken Rice
Of course, Chatterbox has taken the iconic Singapore dish chicken rice and elevated it to world-famous status with the Hainanese Chicken Rice ($27).

This Singapore Special is composed of tender-boiled chicken in a flavourful chicken soup, and soft and fluffy jasmine rice.

Season this chicken-rice combo with traditional condiments homemade chili, ginger, and dark soya sauce.

ChopeDeals: $40 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $80 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: Chatterbox

Extra Virgin Pizza
8 Marina View #01-04 Asia Square, Singapore 018960
Opening Hours: 11am – 9:30pm (Mon – Fri), 5pm – 9pm (Sat, Sun)

While there is the popular EVOO or extra virgin olive oil, there is also EVP or Extra Virgin Pizza – a playfully named resto serving pure (“virgin”) and natural pizzas.

What’s special about EVP is that it was the first pizzeria in Singapore to use Caputo double zero pizza flour.

Known as the world’s best pizza flour, Caputo is specially imported from Naples, Italy and used by EVP in all its pizzas.

With the best pizza flour, you need the best natural, artisanal ingredients such as Californian Saporito tomatoes (100% organic), premium EVOO from Verona, Italy, and Campanian Bufala mozzarella. Find out why the classic Bufala Margherita is a fan fave.

Specials: Pistachio & Pumpkin Pizza, Pepper Pig, Roasted Shrooms
Signature pizzas to taste include Pistachio & Pumpkin Pizza ($24), Pepper Pig ($30), and Roasted Shrooms ($27).

Made with pistachio-pesto base, the Pistachio & Pumpkin Pizza is topped with chunks of roasted pumpkin chunks and peppery baby arugula.

Pepper Pig is a popular choice among meat-lovers, using a trio of spicy pepperoni, pork sausage and guanciale, an Italian cured pork jowl or cheeks.

Finally, Roasted Shrooms. This umami-packed pizza combines roasted mushrooms and onions, béchamel sauce, and splash of aromatic truffle oil.

ChopeDeals: 1-for-1 Mains @ $35.31 nett (U.P $70.62)
Book a seat here: Extra Virgin Pizza

Vatos Urban Tacos
36 Beach Road #01-03, Singapore 189766
Opening Hours: 5pm – 11pm (Tues – Fri), 12pm – 11pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Mon

A proponent of fresh ingredients, Vatos Urban Tacos is the creation of three Korean-Americans who envisioned a new concept for Korean diners.

What they did, together with their culinary team, is to fuse Korean and Mexican cuisines and create a fun food experience.

Specials: 5-Pax Set Menu
Vatos Urban Tacos is offering a limited 5-Pax Set Menu, consisting of Kimchi Carnitas Fries, Mama’s Nachos (choose between Chicken or Pork Belly), your choice of Quesadilla (any Quesadilla from ala carte menu excluding Mango Prawn), choice of 3 sets of 3 Tacos (any taco from a la carte menu excluding Galbi), and Nutella Nachos for dessert.

Plus, you can get any 5 beers or medium Classic Margaritas.

The Kimchi Carnitas Fries is not something you’d find anywhere. This unique French fries is dressed up with sautéed kimchi and braised pork carnitas. Adding extra flavours are melted cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro and chopped onions, and Vatos hot sauce.

The Barbacoa Taco is a signature item in their menu. Using home-made tortillas, this taco cradles a generous serving of barbacoa, ie pork shoulder slow-braised in spicy-sweet seasoning. For freshness, it is served with chopped cilantro, onions, and Vatos hot sauce.

You can also have your tacos filled with braised carnitas, also made with pork shoulder but with a hint of citrus.

ChopeDeals: 5 Pax Set Menu by Vatos Urban Tacos @ $173.02 nett (U.P $247.17)
Book a seat here: Vatos Urban Tacos

Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill
8 Raffles Avenue #01-13B, Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

If you are adventurous in food, the variety of dishes at Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill will delight you. Here they offer an amalgam of cuisines, with some unique fusion dishes to tease your taste buds.

You can relax and unwind in its cosy ambiance as you choose your craving for the day. With plenty of choices, how about some Balinese Crispy Ayam Satay Pasta?

You can go Korean and have some Baked Cheese Ddeoboki. Or maybe you’re in the mood for Japanese-inspired Clam Vongole Udon.

Specials: Noosh Lobster Thermidor
Feel like indulging in seafood? They have Noosh Lobster Thermidor ($44.90, good for 2), a full 400-500g lobster baked with the melty goodness of cheese.

Steak lovers, make sure to try Noosh’ signature Noosh Dome Filet Mignon Surf And Turf ($38.90).

Featuring a premium cut tenderloin, this steak is served on a creamy bed of potato salad. Flanking the turf is a surf of grilled tiger prawns, plus grilled asparagus. As a finale, it is served with brown mushroom sauce drizzled with béarnaise.

Another signature, Jjajangmyeon Noodle ($22.90), takes stir-fried noodles tossed in a sweet bean paste sauce, and pairs them with striploin steak on a sizzling hot plate (Get your cameras ready). Served with steamed seasoned veggies and fried egg.

ChopeDeals: $25.50 for $30 cash voucher; $51 for $60 cash voucher
Book a seat here: Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill

REDPAN
6 Raffles Boulevard #02-03/04 Marina Square, Singapore 039594
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Sun – Sat, PH), 12pm – 11pm (Fri)

When it comes to local fun dining, REDPAN hits the spot as a young and vibrant venue. If you’re looking for a convenient location, creative dishes and wallet-friendly prices, this is one attractive option for you.

REDPAN’s Mod-Sin menu is anchored on local ingredients and accustomed tastes, offering its signature dishes Prawn & Hae Bi Hiam Pasta ($18.50), Bak Chor Foie Gras Pasta ($18.50), Soft Shell Chilli Crab Pasta ($18.50), and Oriental Duck Confit ($20).

Specials: Prawn & ‘Hae Bi Hiam’ Pasta
The all-time fave Prawn & ‘Hae Bi Hiam’ Pasta ($18.50) is a spicy pasta dish prepared with sautéed juicy, bouncy prawns, tossed in a flavour-packed shrimp paste aka hae bi hiam, and served with a wedge of lime.

Aside from the spiciness, regulars love its distinctive umami taste of the in-house shrimp paste, complemented with the acidity of lime juice.

ChopeDeals: $35 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $70 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: REDPAN

Godmama
107 North Bridge Road #04-07 Funan Mall Singapore 179105
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 10am – 10pm (Sat – Sun)

Godmama is a modern Peranakan kitchen and bar offering a centrally-located venue at Funan to gather and bond over food. You will not only satiate your appetite for the bold flavours of Peranakan cuisine, but also feel the warmth of dining together.

Start off with Ayam Buah Keluak, a staple dish of the Peranakans. This classic Nyonya spicy and tangy chicken stew features the seeds of the buah keluak fruit, and is infused with turmeric and lengkuas aka blue ginger, a citrus-scented galangal that tastes piney and sharp.

Specials: Peranakan-style Brunch
Enjoy their specials via a Peranakan-style brunch, including innovative main dishes.

Try the Babi Assam Baked Eggs ($17.90) combining pork belly with brunch-staple eggs. The pork is simmered in a fragrant tamarind stew, then served with baked eggs and freshly-baked sourdough.

If you love pasta, get the Buah Keluak Bolognese Pasta ($19.90) using al dente linguine with a beef Bolognese sauce. What makes it especially Peranakan is tossing it in a classic Nyonya spicy and tangy black nut (buah keluak) stew.

For dessert, the Durian Pengat Buttermilk Pancakes ($18.90) is highly recommended. An order gives you a trio stack of buttermilk pancakes a la mode with vanilla bean ice cream. Served with a sprinkling of coconut crumble and a dollop of smooth and luxuriously creamy durian pengat.

ChopeDeals: $32.50 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $65 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: Godmama

Yàn
1 St. Andrew’s Road #05-02 National Gallery Singapore, Singapore 178957
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri), 11:30am – 2:30pm, 6-10pm (Sat – Sun)

Take this time to discover Yan and its impressive spectrum of Cantonese dishes helmed by Head Chef Ng Sen Tio.

Among the Chef’s Signature Creations, try the Signature Crispy Roast Suckling Pig served 3 ways – crispy skin, carved shoulder, and oven-baked fillet with lemongrass.

Specials: Steamed Xiao Long Bao with White Pepper Soup, Deep-fried Sambal Crayfish Roll
Available for a limited period and during lunch, the Steamed Xiao Long Bao with White Pepper Soup ($5.80 for 4 pieces) is a special dim sum delight that draws inspiration from Singapore’s well-loved dish of Bak Kut Teh.

Each handcrafted pork dumpling highlights the bold pork broth with the fragrance of white peppercorn. Take a bite and it is as though sipping on a piping hot bowl of Bak Kut Teh.

Also to look out for is the Deep-fried Sambal Crayfish Roll ($12 for 4 pieces), in which you would find succulent crayfish stir-fried with piquant sambal, wrapped within crispy deep-fried spring roll.

ChopeDeals: $35 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $70 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: Yàn

Alter Ego
8 Raffles Avenue #01-13D Esplanade Mall Singapore 039802
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 11pm (Sat – Sun)

True to its name, Alter Ego offers you split options to eat health and indulge in dirty.

Famous for its health poke bowls (available until 9pm daily and weekend brunch), it balances the menu with fat and carb loaded meals, decadent desserts, brunch staples and booze.

Start with the favourites of Truffle Fries ($10), Har Cheong Kai ($11), Nachos ($14), Calarmari ($15), to Fish Skin ($7).

Then move on to sumptuous mains such as the Steak Rice Bowl ($25) Grilled Salmon Rice Bowl ($25), to Double Cheese Burger ($22), Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta ($18), Seafood Pasta ($20) with squid ring, king prawns ands and spaghetti tossed in homemade marinara sauce.

Specials: Wasabi Yuzu Dragon Poke Bowl
Healthy eaters can always go for the Original Poke Shaker ($17) loaded with fresh ingredients.

This is one of Alter Ego’s best-seller, a bowl included with sushi rice, honey pineapple, cherry tomato, Japanese cucumber, wakame seaweed, furikake, lime avocado, spiced cashew nuts and tobiko.

For added tangy-citrusy flavours, go for the Wasabi Yuzu Dragon with crunch coming from smoked almonds and tempura crisp. You can also swap for brown rice for a healthier alternative.

ChopeDeals: $35 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $70 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: Alter Ego

Providore – Downtown
6A Shenton Way #B1-07 Downtown Gallery, Singapore 068809
Opening Hours: 8am – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 6pm (Sat – Sun, PH)

Providore – Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road #02-05 Mandarin Gallery, Singapore 238897
Opening Hours: 9am – 10:30pm Last Order 10pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 10:30pm (Sat – Sun, PH)

Chillax in this light and contemporary all-day-dining concept. Talk about convenience – they have a café, bakery, deli, and retail shop all under one roof.

Here you can find handcrafted coffees, European-style breads, cakes and pastries alongside artisanal cheese, charcuterie, wine, gourmet ingredients, even home-ware and gift items.

Using fresh seasonal produce, they offer elevated comfort food best paired with their coffee line-up.

Specials: Baked Chilli Crab Casserole
For the National Day specials, they take the classic Chilli Crab and make it into a casserole.

With fresh crabs as the main ingredient, Baked Chilli Crab Casserole ($24.50) includes eggs, water chestnuts, and radish, and served accompanied with breadsticks and toasted baguette.

The local fave mutton satay takes a different spin as Lamb Skewers ($22.50), served with creamy peanut sauce. Add some side dishes like banana leaves-wrapped steamed rice cakes and crisp bitter belinjau crackers. Both mains are available 12pm onwards.

Cool down with The Providore’s rendition of Milo Godzilla, concocted with their own drinking chocolate topped with gula melaka ice cream coated with Valrhona chocolate. It is twice the choco goodness with the Double Ice Chocolate Godzilla ($10.50), the perfect meal-ender.

ChopeDeals: $35 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $70 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: The Providore @ Mandarin Gallery
Book a seat here: The Providore @ Downtown

Wine & Chef
7 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089115
Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Wine & Chef serves up “semi fine-dining food” at pocket friendly prices. A big reason why they are able to keep costs lower is because the restaurant imports Italian wine directly from the wineries and boutique wine producers, in turn passing on the savings to the consumers.

While its menu has previously been categorised as “Mod-Sin”, I would say these are Italian dishes with a creative Asian take.

Dishes that Wine & Chef recommends include the Wagyu Beef Tartar, 100 Day Grain Fed Ribeye Steak, Salmon Crudo, ‘Due’ Finger, Seared Scallop, Roasted Baby Chicken, Salmon Risotto, Pork Collar, Scallop Capellini, Truffle Fries, and ‘Tea’ramisu.

Special: Hokkaido Scallop Capellini
This is a cold Capellini dish, and probably that one item that left the deepest impression.

This was largely due to a combination of the al dente pasta and fresh sashimi grade Hokkaido scallops.

The truffle flavour was strong on this one, but it was the soy dressing with a Japanese touch that was both aromatic and appetising.

ChopeDeals: $35 or $45 for $50 cash voucher; $70 or $90 for $100 cash voucher
Book a seat here: Wine & Chef

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Step 3 – Dine: Inform the staff that you will be using your voucher prior to ordering.
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* This entry is brought to you in partnership with ChopeDeals.

Being a Wanton Mee fan, I won’t mind seeing more hawker stalls doing well enough to set up their own eateries.

Drama aside, ENG’s Wantan Noodle, Eng’s Char Siew Wantan Mee, Wanton Fu, Ji Ji Wanton Noodle Specialist, Wanton Seng’s Noodle Bar and Wong Kee Wanton Noodles are just some examples of Wanton Noodle specialty shops in Singapore. More to come.

Laifabar is one of the few that didn’t have beginnings as a hawker stall, so it may need some work on the awareness component.

Its name “Laifabar” is actually a play on the Mandarin words which means ”let’s prosper”.

It is located within The Scarlet Hotel, not far away from both Maxwell Food Centre and The Coconut Club.

Maybe people would just walk past without noticing, or could be ‘intimidating’ to walk into a hotel bar without knowing what to expect and what prices to pay.

There are differing views on its $5.50 Wanton Noodles.

While it is pricier than the average hawker stall, it is considered inexpensive and humbly-priced for a sit-down restaurant with service near the CBD.

Other than Wanton Noodles, on the menu are Crispy Pork Noodles ($6.5p0), Char Siew Noodles ($6.50), Char Siew & Crispy Pork Noodles ($7.50), Dumpling Noodles ($7.50), and Shrimp Wanton Noodle Soup ($6.50).

The Wanton Noodles did arrive in a small bowl, without soup – to me, that was the big-something-missing. I personally won’t mind paying a small top-up for the soup with sprinkling of spring onions.

The noodles were cooked to the softer and soggier side, with bu jian tian char siew and tiny wantons that complete the bowl.

This was definitely better than the average Wanton Noodles, but there were components that could be fine-tuned so that it could attract return customers.

The complex chilli sauce was its strength, reminding me Soon Kee Wanton Mee at Pek Kio food centre, but going lesser on the fiery kick. I can imagine people coming here just for the chilli sauce.

On the other hand, noodles could have better springiness; while wantons were more skin than on actual fillings, which was a pity on the overall package.

During a return visit, I topped up with a Dumpling Soup ($7.50), but was slightly surprised it was served in a small soup bowl.

The shui jiao were great as they were plump, packed with shrimp and water chestnut, but there was not enough soup to go around.

In additional, some drizzles of sesame oil would have been great otherwise, but due to the small bowl, the soup became rather oily overall.

You can pair the noodles with sides such as Prawn Fritters ($2.50), Satay ($14 for 10 sticks of chicken, $16 for pork belly), Chicken Wings ($8 for 6), Pot Stickers ($7), Fried Dumpling ($8), Fried Wanton ($7) and Ngoh Hiang ($7).

This has a potential to be a great-tasting bowl, but so hope they can work on the weaker areas, because choices are aplenty in this vicinity.

Laifabar
33 Erskine Road, The Scarlet Hotel, Singapore 069333
Tel: +65 8439 2104
Opening Hours: 10:30am – 4:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 10:30am – 8:30pm (Fri – Sat)

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

For the younger Singaporeans, perhaps their idea of Kaya Toast & Kopi places is Yakun, Killiney Kopitiam and Toast Box.

There is an almost forgotten part of history located at North Bridge Road near Lavender.

Heap Seng Leong 協勝隆 is one of those treasures in Singapore, a short walk away from the famous Michelin-starred Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodles.

It is known for its extremely old-school setting that is caught in a time-warp of the 70s, from the tables, chairs, tiles and décor.

The coffeeshop opens from 5am to 5pm (shortened after COVID-19 days), and also has a Malay stall known for its Nasi Lemak, Mee Siam and Curry Puffs.

I can just imagine unsuspecting people walking past the shop and not giving it a chance.

Walk inside and you would feel that time stood still. The rustic-looking walls, tables, old-school titbit containers and the butter aroma lingering in the air reminded me of Singapore in the 1980-90s.

This place has been here apparently from 1974.

Uncle Shi is the iconic person here, often filmed for making traditional kopi in his white singlet and stripped pajama pants.

You can order its Kopi Gu You, local coffee with a slab of butter dropped within for caramelised flavour and softer notes of the coffee beans.

Local style bulletproof coffee.

Some of you may be uncomfortable with butter in your coffee, but it supposedly provides a slower, more sustained energy high, and kicks the body into fat-burning drive first thing in the morning (not if you also eat loads of other stuff).

Taste-wise, I loved the aromatic Robusta coffee that just had the right amount of bitter notes.

The butter other than giving a greasy aftertaste, made the texture of the coffee more silky.

A set with toast and eggs go for only $3.60. While the kaya toast may not be the crispy-thin style that many would have liked, it was thick and fluffy – charcoal grilled and big on taste of nostalgia.

Heap Seng Leong
10 North Bridge Road, #01-5109, Singapore 190010
Tel: +65 6292 2368
Opening Hours: 5am – 5pm (Mon – Sun)

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

One of Singapore’s most bellowed comfort food, Hainanese Curry Rice is basically a plate of rice slathered with a gloopy curry sauce and a soy-based braising sauce, and combined with many sides.

The humble dish of Hainanese Curry Rice is said to be developed during British colonial rule by Hainanese living in Singapore.

As many Hainanese were employed by the British and Peranakan families, dishes such as Pork Chop and Curry Chicken became some of the iconic dishes.

Don’t know what to order? At least go for the ‘four heavenly king’ dishes of Hainanese Curry Rice which are the Crispy Pork Cutlet, Curry Chicken, Braised Pork Belly and Braised Cabbage.

Sides are often crumbed with other items such as pork trotters stewed in soy sauce, fried egg, crisp-fried battered prawns, minced meat patty and more depending on the stall.

Typically messy with the splashing of sauces and gravies, the lovely chaos of ingredients is the trademark of an authentic Hainanese Curry Rice.

Not ‘instagrammable’, never mind. Here are 10 of the best Hainanese Curry Rice in Singapore you can try:

Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice (Tiong Bahru)
71 Seng Poh Road, #01-49, Singapore 160071
Tel: +65 6225 3762
Opening Hours: 8am – 2:45pm (Fri – Wed), Closed Thurs

Operating since 1946, Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice has become an all-time fave of families generations after generations.

The stall is housed in a coffee shop along a row of shop houses at Tiong Bahru.

Mr Loo Kia Chee took the business from his father and has been running it since then, preserving his traditional Hainanese curry recipe.

Each batch of curry is prepared for days, including a couple of days chopping ingredients and a day of machine grinding.

That process makes the curry smooth, creamy, and aromatic. Spice level is mild, and the creamy coconut and refreshing ginger flavours shine through.

Drenched over plain rice, it becomes a messy, hearty indulgence.

Pork Chop is a meat-lover’s dream. Coated with a biscuit crust, it is moist and succulent and complemented with a sweet tomato-based sauce.

But for fatty indulgence, go for the thick chunks of Pork Belly with creamy melt-in-your-mouth fat and a rich, smoky braised sauce.

No Name Hainanese Curry Rice
Blk 40 Beo Crescent, #01-10, Ho Ping Hng Coffeeshop, Singapore 160040
Opening Hours: 7am – 3pm (Thurs – Tue), Closed Wed

Opened in 1988, this nameless Hainanese Curry Rice stall is well-known to Tiong Bahru residents for its shiok curry and crispy pork.

Some call it “No Name Hainanese Curry Rice”; others say “Beo Crescent Curry Rice”. Though discreetly located, it attracts long queues of buyers ordering cai png style.

Each serving of Curry Rice comes with three kinds of sauces: lor bak sauce, and chap chye gravy, and their signature ayam curry. But if you like things spicy, choose the assam curry.

The sweet chap chye gravy gives a nice contrast to the savoury Lor Bak. Though curry is thin in consistency, it is full-bodied in flavour.

For the sides, order their most popular one, Crispy Pork, usually loved at first bite. Marinated overnight, fatty cuts of pork are coated with batter and double-fried ‘til deep brown and extra crispy.

Throw in some Stewed Cabbage to break the chain of fatty flavours. Cooked ‘til tender but not soggy, this well-seasoned side is good enough for two.

China Street Hainanese Curry Rice 中國街咖哩飯
1 Kadayanallur Street, #01-68 Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: 11am – 6pm (Sat – Thurs), Closed Fri

For Hainanese Curry Rice first-timers, Maxwell Food Center is one of ideal places to get introduced to this popular Singaporean comfort food.

You often find a long queue here during lunch hours, and items get sold out wait before their closing hour.

Here you can find a delicious, well-executed rendition prepared fresh daily.

First off, the curry is thick, rich and only mildly spicy. I liked how mellow it was without a weird spicy tinge. Pair it with the highly-recommended Pork Chop ($1.50).

Lounging in the gooey pool of sauces are thick slices of crispy pork chop, coated in a thin, crisp and fragrant batter. You can taste and tell the pork has been marinated well.

Other variations for pork are Pork Belly ($1.50) and Minced Pork ($1.30). If not, go for the Fish, Cuttlefish, Prawns, Beancurd or Egg.

Tian Tian Hainanese Curry Rice
116 Bukit Merah View, #01-253, Singapore 151116
Tel: +65 9821 0200
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon

Founded as a venture by the family’s great grandfather, this Bukit Merah hawker stall has been around since 1973. Secret family recipes are passed down and preserved, forming the foundation of this popular stall located at a coffee shop next to Bukit Merah View 115 Food Centre.

At Tian Tian, each bowl of Curry Rice is slathered with a generous mix three kinds of curry: chicken curry, seafood curry, and vegetarian curry.

And if the sauciness is not enough, you can request for additional meat sauces: lok bak sauce, char siew sauce, and pork chop gravy. You can create your own combination.

Typical of most Hainanese curry, spiciness level is low and its flavour is more on a mild, sweeter flavour.

The go-to choice of meat is the crumb-coated Pork Chop, a thick, well-seasoned meat deep-fried to a golden brown. It is accompanied with a bowl of brown gravy – use it as dipping sauce for the pork or let it mingle with the rest of the curries.

Try also the meaty Squid and enjoy its fresh, savoury-sweet taste and chewy but not tough texture. They only use good quality squids from reputable suppliers so it might not be in the menu if good squid is not available.

Sin Chie Toke Huan
1018 Upper Serangoon Road, Tai Peng Gardens, Singapore 534756
Tel: +65 9003 5337
Opening Hours: 5pm – 3:30am (Mon, Thurs – Sun), Closed Tues, Wed

Sin Chie Toke Huan is all about home-cooked style Hainanese curry rice and an array of side dishes, very popular in Hougang.

Outdoor seats are available, and it has a vibe that brings back memories of family home-cooked dinners.

Their Traditional Hainanese Curry Rice is coated in a well-flavoured mildly-spiced curry, and carry the aroma of curry leaves.

Among the veggies, the braised cabbage is a staple side-kick for the fragrant curry rice. Soft texture, fiber-rich with a naturally sweet taste accentuated with a mild garlic flavour.

Going to the seafood, squids cooked in curry sauce is quite popular, tender in texture with a slight chewiness.

The Pork Chop was disappointing as it seemed left there for a while (cold), though the Har Cheong Gai or Prawn Paste Chicken is recommended.

Made with crisp-fried chicken wing with a mildly pungent taste from the prawn paste, its crunchy exterior encases the juicy meat inside. The slab of Otah Otah was the other saving grace.

Eleven Fingers (Eu Kee) Scissors Curry Rice
269B Queen St, #01-235, Singapore 180269
Opening Hours: 11am – 6:30pm (Mon – Sun)

Even though Google states that the stall closes at 6:30pm, I have never really seen it open during those hours and make it a point to visit before peak hour lunch.

Apparently, the original owner had an extra finger, thus the name of the stall.

This is probably where you can get a fulling and satisfying meal for $3 – $5 right opposite Bugis Plus.

The selection of items is not as wide ranging as some of the other eateries, though you still get decent choices such as Curry Chicken, Braised Pork Belly, Braised Tau Pork, Ngor Hiang, Cabbage and Egg.

The two big pots of gravies looked very appealing, namely the Braised and Curry sauce. The Curry did have an obvious spicy tinge and curried powder taste, not overly gooey in terms of texture.

I did wish for the Crispy Pork Chop to be hotter (cold in fact), and Braised Pork Belly more tender (surprisingly tough). But overall, a satisfying and hearty mix drenched in sauces.

Hong Seng Curry Rice
#01-74 Redhill Food Centre, Blk 85 Redhill Lane, Singapore 150085
Opening Hours: 10am – 10:30pm (Mon – Fri), 9am – 10:30pm (Sat – Sun)

This cheap and good food stall at Redhill 85 Food Centre is run by 2nd gen hawker whose family has been in the same business for over 20 years.

The choices at this stall make it stand out, as there are 20 plus different dishes cooked on a daily basis including Braised Pig’s Skin, Curry Fish, Sambal Long Beans, Chye Poh Egg and Curry Potatoes.

Recommended dishes include Pork Chop, Char Siew, Braised Pig’s Trotters, Dong Po Pork, Boneless Curry Chicken, Fried Chicken, Curry Sotong, Prawn Fritters, Hae Bi Hiam, and Ikan Billis with Peanuts.

Prices go from $0.70 per portion to say $4 – $6 for the fish. There is even a $4 Value Set Menu featuring six dishes include Pork Chop, Prawn Fritter and Fried Egg.

Come in a group, order a small variety, and when you add everything up, you really this rice stall is really quite economical.

The curry has a Japanese curry-like thick texture, more robust with the use of spices (though may not be my personal favourite).

Toa Payoh Scissors Cut Curry Rice 大巴窑八巷剪刀剪咖喱饭
210 Lor 8 Toa Payoh #01-28, Market & Food Centre, Singapore 310210
Opening Hours: 11am – 3:30pm (Mon – Sun)

Quite an under-rated stall, and considered not as famous as many of the other Hainanese Curry Rice.

Prices start affordably, with one veg and a meat at $2.50, and goes up to 2 veg and 2 meats at $4.30. Additional cost for fish orders.

Popular items include Pork Chop, Braised Pork, Curry Chicken Wings, Curry Vegetable and Egg.

While slightly salty, I loved its pale-orangey slight-sticky and thick curry as it was different from all the rest that I had. It was one I thought managed to achieve a balance of savoury, spicy and sweet, without being overly gooey or thin.

Yong Fa Hainanese Curry Rice
#01-25, 448 Clementi Ave 3, Singapore 120448
Opening Hours: 10am – 2pm, 4pm – 7pm (Mon – Fri) or till sold out, Closed Sat, Sun

The Hainanese Curry Stall’s queue at Clementi 448 Food Centre is steadily long throughout the opening hours but the service here is quick and efficient.

Other than Curry Fish Head and Curry Fish, you can order the signature sambal squid, curry mutton, curry chicken wing, pork chop, and vegetables.

Each item ranges from $1 to $3, so better do your calculations if you are price sensitive.

The food is a bit towards the pricy end but the generous serving size and taste makes up for it.

I can understand why people would like this curry rice – it is the freshness and curry. While I always worry about the ingredients being cold after left out in the open, there was still this warm and homely touch.

The curry gravy was one-of-a-kind, slightly on the thin side and spicy. Can ask for the fish curry gravy if you would like a tangy touch.

Scissors Cut Curry Rice
229 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208905
Tel: +65 9826 1464
Opening Hours: 11am – 3:30am (Mon – Sun)

It is still a mystery how the legendary scissor-style Hainanese Curry Rice 剪刀剪咖喱饭 was invented.

The restaurant known for late-night suppers is famous for its clacking, metallic snapping sound of the scissors… and of course its rice.

The serving size is generous, prices are affordable (though not when compared to the past), and continues popular late night place hang-outs.

While the curry rice looks extremely unappetizing and ugly, fans say they taste heavenly, covered with gooey sauces and toppings of your choice.

My personal favourite dish was the Braised Pork, sliced into thin rectangular shapes, of tender meat braised in a dark greasy sauce. The cabbage was cooked till pale green and squashy, but tastefully soft.

Sometimes (getting more often of late), the deep-fried items get served too old, and therefore not crisp enough.

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Talk about one of the ‘must-try’ Hainanese Curry Rice in Singapore, and fans at Hougang should vote for Sin Chie Toke Huan.

Sin Chie Toke Huan 新聚樂歡 is all about home-cooked style Hainanese curry rice and an array of side dishes.

Located just a short walk from Kovan MRT Station, this eatery sits along a row of shop houses along busy Upper Serangoon Road.

Come here during peak evening hours, and you would find a long line (remember to social distance) and waiting time can be about half an hour or slightly more.

Limited outdoor seats are available and has a vibe that brings back memories of family home-cooked dinners.

Since everything is on display, it is easy to pick and point your orders.

Their Traditional Hainanese Curry Rice is coated in a well-flavoured mildly-spiced curry, and carry the aroma of curry leaves.

Something to note that it is not the usual thick, rich and gooey type associated with Hainanese Curry Rice but has a thinner consistency, lighting coating the rice grains. So some people would find the curry gravy average at best.

Among the veggies, the braised cabbage is a staple side-kick for the fragrant curry rice. Soft texture, fiber-rich with a naturally sweet taste accentuated with a mild garlic flavour.

Going to the seafood, squids cooked in curry sauce is quite popular, tender in texture with a slight chewiness. Especially tasty when mixed together with the rice. The Sweet & Sour Fish is also a good choice.

For meats, uncle may ask if you want a “wet or dry” pork. The “wet” would be tender Sliced Pork Belly braised in dark soya sauce, sesame oil and shredded ginger. Goes well with plain rice as it is savoury on its own.

While quite a number of people recommended me the Fried Pork Chop, the pieces I had were disappointing as it seemed left there for a while, therefore room-temperature-tasting.

 
At least the Har Cheong Gai or Prawn Paste Chicken was a good redeeming item.

Made with crisp-fried chicken wing with a mildly pungent taste from the prawn paste, its crunchy exterior encases the juicy meat inside. Best when served hot.

I also spotted a thick slab of Otah Otah which I didn’t regret ordering, filled with thick chucks of fish.

For desserts, there are options of Cheng Tng; Ice Jelly, made from cold-pressed limes, topped with fruit cocktail; or the Ice Kacang with a base of red beans, grass jelly, and attap chee, topped with sweet corn and crushed peanuts.

They also offer 2 types of green handmade Chendol: the Original version with coconut milk, gula melaka and shaved ice; and a Teochew version with additional red beans and grass jelly.

Some also recommended me the Pork Porridge stall at the same coffeeshop, which I have not got to try yet.

A popular spot for after-work, late night suppers and very-early breakfast meals, Sin Chie Toke Huan offers delivery and take-away via Grab Food and Deliveroo.

Sin Chie Toke Huan
1018 Upper Serangoon Road, Tai Peng Gardens, Singapore 534756
Tel: +65 9003 5337
Opening Hours: 5pm – 3:30am (Mon – Sun)

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

When it comes to the best Hainanese Curry Rice in Singapore, it is typically a toss-up between Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice at Tiong Bahru and No Name Curry Rice at Beo Crescent.

Operating since 1946, Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice has become an all-time favourite of families generations after generations.

The stall is housed in a coffee shop along a row of shop houses at Tiong Bahru opposite the food centre, and you would see a long line forming from 8am in the morning. (With that said, the Bak Chor Mee and Vegetarian Bee Hoon stalls in the same coffeeshop both have their ardent regulars as well.)

Mr Loo Kia Chee took the business from his father and has been running it since then, preserving his traditional Hainanese curry recipe.

The curry recipe is said to be created in 1947 by the founder, who blended the cooking style of Hainanese dishes (where he was from) and Nonya curries.

Each batch of curry is prepared for days, including a couple of days chopping ingredients and a day of machine grinding.

That process makes the curry smooth, creamy, and aromatic. Spice level is mild, and the creamy coconut and refreshing ginger flavours shine through.

Drenched over plain rice, it becomes a messy, hearty indulgence.

It was not the super gooey and sticky type (but I know some would prefer this style), but had an appetising spice aroma.

If you come early enough, you would get to choose from dishes such as Dark Soy Sauce Stewed Pork, Crispy Pork Chop, Sambal Sotong, Curry Chicken, Chap Chye (cabbage) and more.

Many of the popular food items generally get sold out by 1pm or so.

The Crispy Pork Chop is a meat-lover’s dream. Coated with a biscuit crust, it was thin, yet moist and succulent (if order by plate, I think it is actually okay to leave out the tomato-based sauce).

I liked how it is still done the old-school way, coated with pounded Khong Guan biscuit crumbs for deep-frying rather than bread-crumbs.

While some slices lost its crispiness after being drenched in sauces, those parts that weren’t remained crispy and hot.

But for fatty indulgence, go for the thick chunks of Pork Belly with creamy melt-in-your-mouth fat and a rich, smoky braised sauce.

Even the Fried Egg drizzled with some dark soy sauce was tasty, with those crispy edges and almost-soft centre.

Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice (Tiong Bahru)
71 Seng Poh Road, #01-49, Singapore 160071
Tel: +65 6225 3762
Opening Hours: 8am – 2:45pm (Fri – Wed), Closed Thurs

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.a

If you are adventurous in food, the variety of dishes at Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill located at Esplanade Mall may delight you.

Here they offer an amalgam of cuisines, with unique Halal fusion dishes to tease your taste buds.

You can relax and unwind in its cosy ambiance as you choose your craving for the day. After that, can lepak one corner near the Esplanade with a view of Marina Bay Sands.

First things first, their menu is extensive and there is a likelihood you may not know what to choose at first glance.

There are various sections from starters, salads, soups, fusion specialties, rice bowls, noodles, to desserts.

Starting with the noodles, you do not get any of the ‘normal’ noodles here, as the offerings range from Spicy Beef Ramyeon, Szechuan Beef Ribs Noodles, Niboshi Ramen with Sliced Beef, Soft Shell Crab Spaghettini, Noosh Style Char Kuay Teow, Creamy Tuscan Salmon, Tortellini Pasta, Laksam Kelantan, to Beef Carbonara with Truffle.

Get the drift? With plenty of choices, how about some Noosh Dry Sambal Udon or Balinese Crispy Ayam Satay Pasta?

The Noosh Dry Sambal Udon was actually not too bad, with thick udon noodles tossed in rich and decadent sambal sauce, added with tenderly sliced beef.

While udon noodles are generally paired with soup, I think that as long as you come with the mindset “I am game to try anything” and you shall be okay.

You can go Korean and have some Baked Cheese Ddeoboki. Or maybe you’re in the mood for Japanese-inspired Clam Vongole Udon?

What I would recommend is the Jjajangmyeon Noodle ($22.90) which is not quitethe typical Korean style. Actually, there are not many similarities at all.

This dish takes stir-fried noodles tossed in a sweet bean paste sauce, and pairs them with striploin steak on a sizzling hot plate (Get your cameras ready).

Served with steamed seasoned veggies and fried egg.

If you are expecting “Korean”, you would be disappointed as there isn’t that earthy fermented black bean taste. But if you are in for some hot, comforting hot-plate noodles with sizzle, the sweet-savoury style may interest you.

Feel like indulging in seafood? They have Curry Crayfish Noodles, Squid Cekodok, to Noosh Lobster Thermidor ($44.90, good for 2) – a full 400-500g lobster baked with the melty goodness of cheese.

Steak lovers can try Noosh’ signature Noosh Dome Filet Mignon Surf And Turf ($38.90).

Featuring a premium cut tenderloin, this steak is served on a creamy bed of potato salad. Flanking the turf is a surf of grilled tiger prawns, plus grilled asparagus.

As a finale, it is served with brown mushroom sauce drizzled with béarnaise.

I generally thought that their noodle dishes fared better than the Western fusion fare – which to me was either closer to the standard fare without big surprises, or that some fusion components did not seem to work as well.

You can end off with a dessert of Ondeh Ondeh Cake – too much on the sweet side for me especially with the side of vanilla ice cream, but still fluffy and moist.

Wash it down with a Halal concoction of chilled Butter Beer ($10.90), Harry Potter style.

ChopeDeals: $25.50 for $30 cash voucher; $51 for $60 cash voucher

Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill
8 Raffles Avenue #01-13B, Esplanade Mall, Singapore 039802
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
Book a seat here: Noosh Noodle Bar & Grill

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Talk about the best Best Hainanese Curry Rice in Singapore, and foodies would most likely direct you to Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice at Tiong Bahru or this “No Name Hainanese Curry Rice” near Bukit Ho Swee.

Opened in 1988, this nameless Hainanese Curry Rice stall is well-known to Tiong Bahru residents for its shiok curry and crispy pork.

Some call it “No Name Hainanese Curry Rice”; others say “Beo Crescent Hainanese Curry Rice”. Though discreetly located, it attracts long queues of buyers ordering cai png style.

The nameless stall is about a 10 minutes’ walk from Tiong Bahru MRT station, in a coffee shop next to Beo Crescent Food Centre.

Things get sold out by about 2pm plus.

Each serving of Curry Rice can come with three kinds of sauces: lor bak sauce, and chap chye gravy, and their signature ayam curry.

But if you like things spicy, choose the assam curry.

The sweet chap chye gravy gives a nice contrast to the savoury lor bak. Though curry is thin in consistency, it is considered full-bodied in flavour though I would think some customers may refer something richer, thicker or spicier.

For the sides, order their most popular one, Crispy Pork, usually loved at first bite. This to me is the highlight, more than all the other items here.

Marinated overnight, fatty cuts of pork are coated with batter and double-fried ‘til deep brown and extra crispy.

If you prefer a saucy pork side, get the tender Braised Pork served drenched in a dark sauce. It is a unison of salty and sweet, and herbaceous flavours.

Cereal Prawns are just as popular among regulars. An order gives you 6-7 pieces of small but well-marinated prawns. Unlike the pork batter, this one is made with cereal, coarse bread crumbs, and egg to create a formidable crunch.

Throw in some Stewed Cabbage to break the chain of fatty flavours. Cooked ‘til tender but not soggy, this well-seasoned side is good enough for two.

Feel free to add a fried egg as a topping. The soft egg yolk adds a silkiness when mixed with the rice.

I remember eating Beo Crescent often years back and there was always something appealing about it. But If you ask me to place a vote, Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice has that extra ‘oomph’ for me.

No Name Hainanese Curry Rice
Blk 40 Beo Crescent, #01-10, Ho Ping Hng Coffeeshop, Singapore 160040
Opening Hours: 7am – 3pm (Thurs – Tues), Closed Wed

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Even before the official opening of Lemak Boys at Shaw Centre, the Nasi Lemak specialty eatery got into some controversy when it was reviewed that they served “Peranakan Nasi Lemak”.

That was later clarified and changed to “Peranakan-influenced Nasi Lemak” after some social media backlash.

Lemak Boys’ statement, “8days has since updated their article and header after we have reached out to them to clarify. As this was an unpaid food review, we are not in control of the opinion of the writer or what their editor chooses for a header.”

There is a school of thought that believes “any publicity is good publicity”. Looking at the mini-queue outside waiting, perhaps there is truth to that statement.

Lemak Boys is a concept of the Les Amis Group, and the three chefs (also featured in the logo) were from Indigo Blue Kitchen right next door.

The dish in the centre of this controversy is the $12.50 Nasi Lemak.

”Wah, can buy 3 plates at a hawker centre already.”

There will be people who question this high price tag, but perhaps Lemak Boys took their cue from The Coconut Club’s $14.90 Nasi Lemak which faced similar criticisms of pricing when the eatery first opened.

Well, the The Coconut Club has gone on to attract constant long queues, a visit from PM Lee, and a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

A Nasi Lemak plate contains a piece of fried chicken berempah, vegetable omelette, otah, fried ikan billis, peanuts, and sambal.

The key component which is coconut rice while light, fluffy, and slightly fragrant, came room-temperature cold and a tad oily to my liking.

If one hasn’t tried enough respectable Nasi Lemak hawker stalls around (just taking for example Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak at Adam Road Food Centre), then the Lemak Boys’ take can be considered a noteworthy version.

As for the other ingredients there were a couple of hits and misses.

The chunky square of juicy otah, and the crispy fried chicken berempah with spiced-fragrance were the highlights.

Some sambal chilli was added separately to the prawns, and didn’t taste like they gelled well together compared to a version if the prawns were seeped with those flavours.

Talking about sambal (another type different from the prawns), it tasted rather flat and couldn’t ‘lift’ the dish up, lacking in that multi-layered excitement.

Also available is a Premium Nasi Lemak ($18.50) which comes with Sayur Lodeh – which I found lacked in the coconut-fragrance and characteristic sweetness.

Other than Nasi Lemak, customers may want to choose the Laksa ($12.50, $18.50 for premium) with generous portion of prawns (I counted three).

It reminded me of a rich and lemak Laksa that you can find in a 3 or 4 star hotel buffet – good enough if you are hungry, but won’t warrant an additional bowl.

The creamy and not-too-sweet dessert of Chendol Pudding ($3) is worth the try; though it is a wasted opportunity that drinks such as the Lemongrass come in bottles rather than ‘homemade’.

Lemak Boys
1, #03-10 Scotts Rd, Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 6235 3218
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 9pm (Mon – Sun)

Other Related Entries
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Indigo Blue Kitchen (Shaw Centre)
The Coconut Club (Ann Siang)
Mizzy Corner (Changi Village)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Nasi Lemak is one of Singapore’s most popular hawker dish, known for fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf.

The basic style that many of us are familiar with comes similarly with egg, small fried anchovies (ikan bilis), roasted peanuts, cucumber and sambal chill.

Typically traditionally eaten during breakfast, there are many restaurants and hawker stalls serving this from noon till supper with more fanciful versions.

Some of the famous places you can get the dish includes Bali Nasi Lemak (Geylang Lor 15), Chong Pang Nasi Lemak (447 Sembawang Road), Yi Liu Xiang (Hainanese Village Centre), International Muslim Food Stall (Changi Village Food Centre), Sri Sujana Muslim Food (Changi Village Food Centre), D’Authentic Nasi Lemak (Marine Parade Food Centre), Latiffa Huri (Jurong West Street 41 Blk 498), Mount Faber Nasi Lemak (47 Kreya Ayer Road), Changi Nasi Lemak (323 Bukit Batok Street 33), Fong Seng Nasi Lemak (22A Clementi Road), and Simple.簡 (CT Hub 2).

There are also more ‘atas’ versions from eateries such as The Coconut Club at Ann Siang and Lemak Boys at Shaw House.

Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak
Adam Road Food Centre #01-02, 2 Adam Road, Singapore 289876
Tel: +65 9843 4509
Opening Hours: 7am – 5pm (Mon – Thurs), 7am – 3pm (Sat – Sun), Closed Fri

This stall deserves a top spot in this list. Perhaps some people do not know that they are one of the partners behind Nasi Lemak chain store CRAVE.

No matter what time of the day you plan to go to Adam Road Food Centre, there is no escaping the snaking long queues, but fans say the wait is surely worth it.

So, what is the “secret to success”?

The current owner attributes it to the family recipe that emphasizes on the 4 key ingredients: basmati rice, sambal chilli, chicken wing and otah otah.

There are 7 choices on the menu, from the basic Flash Meal ($2.90), Fish Meal ($3.90), Chicken Wing Meal ($3.90) to the most ‘elaborate’ Royal Rumble ($5.90).

This Royal Rumble Nasi Lemak includes the full-works of ingredients including fried chicken, otah-otah, fried egg, sliced cucumbers, sambal and fried anchovies.

What stood out for me was first the aroma of the basmati rice, then the rich quality that went unbelievable well with the coconut milk, lemongrass and pandan leaves.

The winning element to me was the Sambal Chilli, specially cooked with both Indian and Japanese chillies.

The story goes that the owner’s grandmother wanted a less spicy version of the chilli to cater to more customers. Thus, the store created this sweet-savoury-spicy version of sambal that would help to elevate the taste of the crispy fried chicken wings.

The Coconut Club
28 Ann Siang Road Singapore 069708 (Chinatown MRT)
Tel: +65 8748 1869
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 9:30pm (Mon – Sat) 11am – 3pm (Sun Lunch Only)

The Coconut Club is listed in the Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore, and received the support of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong that he hosted Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte there when he came visiting.

The Nasi Lemak specialist first got into the limelight with their $12.80 Nasi Lemak, served at the hipster district of Ann Siang Hill.

A plate of Nasi Lemak comes with coconut rice, chicken leg (or breast), ikan billis (anchovies), peanuts, cucumber, fried egg and sambal.

The verdict: The rice was lovely and fluffy, with that undemanding aroma that didn’t overwhelm.

The chicken was the other tasty element, rubbed with lemongrass, galangal and turmeric, carrying with it Asian flavours rather than just a generic fried chicken. Not as juicy as the last time I had it, but still good. The Coconut Club (Ann Siang)

No.1 Adam’s Nasi Lemak
Adam Road Food Centre #01-01, 2 Adam Road, Singapore 289876
Opening Hours: 8:30am – 1pm (Mon, Wed – Sun), Closed Tues

This is the other popular stall for Nasi Lemak at Adam Road Food Centre. Although it has a tough competition with rival stalls at the food centre, it stands out simply because of its authenticity and traditional flavours without any special ingredient or flashy choices.

Note that even though the queue may not look that long, customers still have to wait quite a while due to the assembling time.

There are the Fish Set ($4), Chicken Set ($4), Sutra Special ($5.50), and Adam’s Special ($5.50) included with mutton rendang full of flavours.

I got the standard Sutra Special ($5.50) with otah, slices of fish cake, chicken wing, ikan billis and nuts.

The winning part was the fluffy rice, soft in texture with a faint coconuty aroma. I loved the balance of the sweetness from coconut milk and spicy and savoury flavours from sambal and other ingredients. I wished that the ingredients stood out a little more (ie crispier wings?)

Aliff Nasi Lemak
49A Serangoon Garden Way, #01-27, Singapore 555945
Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon

Surround yourself in the aroma of fragrant Basmati rice and that tasty sambal chilli.

Nasi Lemak is a delicious traditional hawker treat, and it makes for a hearty and wholesome breakfast to start your day with.

There are a variety of serving sizes of Nasi Lemak (starting from $3.60 to $5.00) that are loaded with ingredients.

You can top up with chicken wing, fish, ikan bills, otah, fish cake, tahu, bagedel, egg, and tempeh, from $0.50 to $1.50.

While I wasn’t that sure of the ingredients as some were on the colder wing, the thing that stands out the most about their dish is the quality and taste of the basmati rice.

It was extremely fragrant, and soft consistency cooked with coconut milk.

The other stand-out part was the sweet-tasting chilli, though you may not be able to request for more.

Power Nasi Lemak
Boon Lay Place Market and Food Village #01-106, 221B Boon Lay Place, Singapore 642221
Tel: +65 6266 4466
Opening Hours: 4:30pm – 3:30am (Mon), 6:30am – 3:30m (Tues – Sun)

Started in 1971, Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak has been selling the famed Nasi Lemak from this very corner store. Our authentic sets are cooked in a central kitchen with the highest quality coconut oil. We pride ourselves on replenishing fast, serving you the freshest of ingredients all day every day.

Signatures include the Chicken Set which comes with a chicken wing, ikan bilis, sambal and a fried egg. If not, there are also the Nasi Lemak Otah Otah, Fish Fillet, Paru, Selar Kunning, Ayam Berempah and Combo sets.

Top up with ala carte items of Sambal Sotong, Bagedel, Ikan Bilis with Peanuts, Popcorn Chicken, Beef Rendang and more.

Mizzy Corner Nasi Lemak – Changi
2 Changi Village Rd, #01-26, Singapore 500002
Tel: +65 9816 4419
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 1am (Mon – Sun)

Established in 1997, Mizzy Corner at Changi Village Food Centre is known for its basmati coconut rice, paired with sweet sambal, and signature marinated chicken wings. (The other popular stalls at this hawker centre include International Muslim Nasi Lemak, Sri Sujana, and Changi Famous Nasi Lemak.)

There are 5 sets to choose from, named Set A to F, priced from $3.50 to $5.00.

However, despite the stall being famous for the chicken wings, while the exterior still retained a bit of crispiness, the inside could be juicier with more marinate – could be lacking in that ‘oomph’ flavour.

What I enjoyed best about the Nasi Lemak was indeed its basmati rice which was very fragrant with the coconuty-panda aroma, and fluffy.

I can imagine some could pair this simply with the sambal chilli, which was on the sweet side and not-too-spicy at all.

Ponggol Nasi Lemak
965 Upper Serangoon Rd, Singapore 534721
Tel: +65 6281 0020
Opening hours: 4:30pm – 12am (Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun), Closed Thurs

Probably one of Singapore’s most famous Nasi Lemak chains which was first established in 1979, Ponggol Nasi Lemak (not spelt “Punggol” was founded by Mr. Ang Chye Choon and Madam Koh Ah Tan.

There are also other outlets at Capitol Singapore, 238 Tanjong Katong Road, 371 Jalan Besar Road.

For convenience, there are four sets. I foresee many would order the Set 3, a double chicken wing and ikan bilis (anchovies) plate at $5.70.

Add-ons include Crispy Wings, Crispy Drumstick, Fried Fish, Crispy Anchovies with Peanuts, Luncheon Meat, Fish Fillet, Fish Cake, Cuttlefish Balls, Spicy Otah, Spicy Shrimp Floss and Homemade Archar.

Thai Hom Mali grain is used for the rice, which did give it an edge – long grained, aromatic, resonating with flavours of coconut milk.

The overall feel was slightly on the dry, compared to some other nasi lemak rice which could be moister and fluffier. But I still enjoy its rather Crispy (and still juicy) Wings and Fish Fillet.

The winner is really in its home-made sambal chilli sauce, which brought the chicken wings (and other items) to another level. Ponggol Nasi Lemak (Jalan Besar)

Soulfood Catering
13 Pahang Street, Singapore 198614
Opening Hours: 12pm – 9pm (Tues – Thurs), 12pm – 10pm (Fri – Sat)

Aussie-Style BBQ meets traditional Nasi Lemak. Soulfood Catering is a family-run Aussie BBQ Nasi Lemak food stall in a coffee shop, and it is located in the fringe of Kampong Gelam at Pahang Street.

From Paprika & Herbs Chicken Wing Nasi Lemak, Bangers & Hash Nasi Lemak, Eggs Benny Nasi Lemak, BBQ Prawns Nasi Lemak, to Steak Nasi Lemak, you know you can expect original combinations that cannot be found elsewhere here.

Its makcik-approved Surf & Turf Nasi Lemak ($21.90) is the most popular, a filling plate of BBQ ribeye steak, scallops and prawns, with homemade creamy garlic sauce drizzled on fragrant rice.

This is also available in a family-platter size meant for 2 to 4 pax, included with ribeye steak, BBQ chicken fillet or 1/4 chicken, BBQ prawns, scallops, lemon garlic prawn skewers with Nasi Lemak and that sauce tantalising sauce.

Pandan Leaf Nasi Lemak
Tanjong Pagar Food Centre #02-25, 6 Tanjong Pagar Plaza Singapore 081006
Opening Hours: 6am – 1pm (Mon – Sat). Closed Sun

There are at least 3 Nasi Lemak stalls around at Tanjong Pagar Food Centre. This is my favourite.

A single dish contains SO MANY ingredients from a plump fried chicken drumstick, egg, ngor hiang, fishcake and dollop of sambal chilli.

For only $3 or $4. Pick the $4 for a hearty portion.

I enjoyed the crispy chicken with quite juicy meat, and the fragrant light-green pandan rice.

Li Xing Nasi Lemak
Amoy Street Food Centre #02-81, 7 Maxwell Rd, #02-81, Singapore 069111
Opening Hours: 7am – 1:30pm (Mon – Fri), Closed Sat, Sun

Affordable Nasi Lemak with Fragrant Rice
A popular Nasi Lemak stall, with ingredients of chicken wing, luncheon meat, ngoh hiang, fish cake, fillet, fish, otah or egg – each priced from $0.50 to $1.50.

You would usually find a line here, a huge reason is due to its affordably with a basic set starting from $3.

Its rice was also fluffy-fragrant, matched with simple but juicy chicken wings.

Nothing too fanciful, but a taste quite close to the old-school traditional taste with subtle flavour of the rice.

Other Related Entries
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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Hae, Prawn-themed restaurant!? You heard it right.

Prawn Noodle Bar serves up a modern rendition of prawn noodles, as well as everything else prawn-related.

Like its name suggests, the majority of their dishes uses prawn as a key ingredient in cooking.

The fusion restaurant is located at Duxton Hill, near well-known coffee haunts like Five Oars Coffee Roasters and Parallel Coffee Roasters.

Upon entering the place, I was rather entertained by its neon signage which says “Nice 虾“.

It could either mean delicious prawns, or perhaps a more local slang of us emphasizing that the food is really nice sia. How apt.

Their signature Prawn Noodle ($21) comes in Dry or Soup version.

The Dry bowl was served with a hearty bowl of noodles tossed in fried shallot and pork lard, with lightly grilled king prawns and rolled pork belly.

While I generally like the scented aroma of fried shallot and pork lard in dry noodles, I felt that the chilli could use a bit more oomph to further elevate its taste profile.

Its accompanying serving of prawn broth, which I presume would be same used for the soup version, was a head-turner.

Despite the texture resembled more of a light soup, it was surprisingly packed filled with sweet umami-ness of prawns.

Legit good stuff.

Moving on from their signature hae mee, other interesting prawn-related dishes are such as Prawn Laksa Risotto ($20), Wok Hei Prawn Noodles ($22), Ebi Burger ($21) and Prawnster Roll ($22).

I was also highly recommended to their sides like Har Cheong Gai ($13). Okay, not prawn but still they use prawn paste to marinate chicken.

When served, a whiff of its alluring prawn paste aroma could be detected even before I dig in.

What appealed to me was its har cheong flavour which has infused thoroughly into the juicy chicken meat.

I absolutely adore Wu Xiang, or Five Spices Platter ($14) and theirs came with an assortment of deep-fried prawn fritters, battered fish fillet, pork roll and spring roll, served with chilli sauce.

The staff did mention that they prepared all the ingredients in-house.

While it wasn’t particularly mind-blowing, this platter could possibly serve as a good plate of bar bites to go along with alcohol.

For those would like to go for a crustacean treat, you could be in for a hae-py time.

Prawn Noodle Bar
9 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089593
Tel: +65 8028 0802
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Tue – Sun), Closed Mon

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Chung Cheng Chilli Mee (Golden Mile Food Centre)
Jalan Sultan Prawn Mee (Geylang)

* Written by Lewis Tan @juicyfingers, a self-proclaimed coffee addict. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

I start this off by saying that I quite like D’Good Café and has probably recommended a couple of friends to the cafe.

D’Good Cafe has outlets in Holland Village and Jewel Changi Airport, while its other branch at Takashimaya Shopping Centre has closed after the lease ended.

The only thing is, in terms of branding and placement, D’Good Café may lack of that strong ‘personality’ that would give café-goers a strong recall value despite being around for a number of years.

Some diners may be curious about their new sister-brand called “Strait Place 1819 石叻坡” at VivoCity.

A friend asked me what “石叻坡” (shi le po) meant, which I replied, ”Didn’t you catch old local dramas such as 豆腐街?”, then I quickly realised our age gap.

Singapore was known as “石叻坡” by the Chinese, which is a direct translation from the Malay word “Selat” (Sit-lat) meaning “Strait”. The word “坡” means “place” while 1819 marks the birth of modern Singapore.

Ah, my Secondary 1 history lesson is all coming back to me now.

The 88-seater (how auspicious) Strait Place 1819 offers a fusion menu with a spin on local favourites. This concept may remind some of the likes of the Colonial Club Signatures at Paragon, and the defunct 1933 at Capitol Piazza.

Walking in, I saw traces of D’Good Café – the booth seats, garden-looking exterior and swings chairs. Which is probably quite disjointed with another part of the café which has more nostalgic Singapore elements.

If you are not familiar with D’Good Café at all, then a first-timer could be quite perplexed with Strait Place 1819.

The menu with a design of an exercise book also features both, and I took some time reading through as I was constantly surprised at its offerings.

Let’s not focus on the prices for now… there were Lobster & Crab Hokkien Mee ($21), Hainanese Chicken Roulade with Foie Gras ($17.50), Ribeye & Fish Hor Fun ($21), Black Garlic Bak Kut Teh on rice ($19), Unagi & Salmon Fried Kway Teow, and BCM (which stands for Bak Chor Mee) Capellini ($16).

One of those situations, in which I didn’t know what to order.

Remember “Mod-Sin”? Funny how this term once considered hip, is seldom used now.

I wanted to be safe and so got a Laksa Seafood with Pasta ($16).

Typically, laksa pasta out there are either creamier or dry with coconuty fragrance, but this was in between soupy and dry with a spicy gravy which needed some getting used to.

Unfortunately, the dish didn’t warm the cockles of my heart, as it was lined with sea hum which had a weird aftertaste. I do not mind my cockles in piping hot gravy, but not placed on top of luke-warm pasta.

The Strait Place Carrot Cake ($10) contained black fried radish cake, sandwiched between two crispy white radish cake. Let that sink in for the moment.

I think the dish was intriguing, and they must have put in a lot of effort in R&Ding all the other dishes.

On paper, it did sound fairly interesting, but upon execution the middle radish portion seemed too mushy and couldn’t bring out the fragrance and ‘wok-hei’ factors.

The best item I had the meal was a Singapore Cendol Deutsch Skillet Pancakes, incorporated with Alchemy Fibre – high fibre, zero cholesterol and transfats.

This worked better as the pancakes tasted plainer and so balanced with the sweeter ingredients of ice cream, red bean and green pandan jelly.

With such an expansive menu, there is bound to be some café favourites, but there could be a couple of ‘risky’ items there that customers would inevitably compare with their favourite local versions.

Strait Place 1819
1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-111 VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

There is more to Hainanese food than just Hainanese Chicken Rice, and also includes the likes of Hainanese Pork Chop, Hainanese Curry Rice, and Hainanese Lamb Stew.

Even the familiar local breakfast of kaya toast, kopi and soft-cooked eggs is considered “Hainanese”.

If you have always been wondering ”What is there to eat at Bukit Panjang?”, there is a NEW The Hainan Story 海南宝 at Hillion Mall Level 1 which gathers the best of Hainanese cuisine in one place.

This is a 5-in-1 multi-brand Hainanese restaurant, with familiar F&B brands of Wee Nam Kee and Ah Chiang’s Porridge, alongside three new names of The Hainan Story, Newspaper Curry Rice and Uncle Robert Western.

The Hainan Story team has worked together with numerous Hainanese chefs to create comforting and nostalgic meals.

I saw that there are several modern touches in its culinary execution as well. For example, you can get Gula Melaka Kaya and Cheese on your toast, “Hae Bee Hiam” Spaghetti, and Pork Cutlet coated with potato chips crumbs instead (of cream cracker crumbs).

Here’s more on the 5 brands at The Hainan Story:

The Hainan Story
This is more than the Toast and Coffee concept, also offering a range including Hainanese Claypot dishes, Hainanese British Pie, Egg Tarts, Cake of the Day, and even Ice Cream with Waffles.

The highlight is the homemade Gula Melaka Kaya with Butter Toast ($1.80 ala carte, $4.80).

Instead of the usual thin flat options found elsewhere, this breakfast toast takes the form of a pillow-soft bun lightly toasted – with a slight crust yet remain fluffy on the touch.

The smooth and creamy kaya worked agreeably with the soft buns (especially after the butter melted through), though I wished the caramelised-sweetness of the Gula Melaka could be more distinct.

“Bulletproof coffee” has become rather trendy these recent years, but the Hainanese have their own form of “Kopi Gu You” which has been in Singapore coffeeshops since the 1930s.

Get your Kopi, Kopi O or Kopi C with butter (additional $0.60). I don’t mind this once in a while, as adding butter gives the kopi a more aromatic and full-bodied, along with a texture that goes down very smoothly. Or for those on keto diet.

Some people may miss out the Hainanese Delicacies section, but there are also claypot and noodle varieties here.

This includes the hearty Ah Kor Hainanese Lamb Stew with Rice ($11.80) or with Crispy Noodles ($12.80), Hainanese Claypot Chicken “Char Siew” Rice ($8.50), Hainanese Clay Pot Ee-fu Noodle Soup ($8.50) and Laksa with Hainanese Steamed Chicken ($8.50).

Newspaper Curry Rice
Hainanese Curry Peng is generally characterised by rice slathered with gloopy curry gravy and soy-based thick braising sauce.

While Newspaper Curry Rice is a new-to-market brand, the curry chicken recipe is said to be passed down the generations from a staunch Hainanese matriarch. Don’t play play.

All their curry, sauces and recipes are made from scratch, including the homemade sambal.

To keep things easier, there are 6 sets to choose from, priced between $6.80 and $9.80. The main ingredients in each of the 6 are the Curry Chicken Drumstick, Fried Chicken Drumstick, ”Kou Rou” (pork belly), Fried Pork, Prawn Fritters and Crispy Fried Silver Dory Fish.

All sets are accompanied by freshly steamed rice, prawn crackers, sambal tempeh, sambal belacan and your choice of a homemade vegetable and egg dish – get the long-bean egg omelette.

I went for the Nanyang Flavour Fried Chicken Drumstick Set ($6.80) – which interestingly was the most inexpensive of the 6. The drumstick had crunchy skin with golden-brown glaze that reminded me of Korean-style chicken.

The Hainanese curry was light and complex; overall the sauces were not the rich and gooey kind, and I wished there was more so that the rice grains would get ‘drenched’. The sambal chilli belacan with the punch was the other highlight.

Uncle Robert Western
Hainanese cuisine is intricately linked with the British colonial era in Singapore, resulting in the Hainanese-style Western food we see quite commonly around now.

Uncle Robert – not a real person, offers Old English Oxtail Stew ($18.80), Grilled Cheese Chicken Chop with Sweet & Sour Sauce ($14.80), Hainanese Crispy Pork Wrap Served With Fries ($11.80), Sir Charles British Fish (Seabass) & Chips ($21.50), and Hainanese Seafood Pasta with Spicy Tomato Cream ($14.80).

The 1980’s Hainanese Fried Pork Cutlet Coated with Potato Chips Crumbs ($14.80) was the recommended highlight.

I grew up in an era when cream crackers were pounded and used as crumbs for our home-cooked pork chops. Uncle Robert Western uses potato chips crumbs instead, which is said to lend the dish a more flavourful profile and crunch.

The pork loin is also marinated in a special mixture of celery, carrot, spring onions and seasoning to better bring out its natural flavours. The pork came in a rather huge slab, even good for two to share, though I thought that slice was slightly to the thick side.

Before you ask ”Where are the tomato gravy and peas?”, this cutlet comes paired with a choice of Yogurt Rojak (creamy and nutty sauce) or Zesty Alabama White BBQ Sauce.

Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice
For lovers of Hainanese Chicken Rice, Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice founded in 1987 by the late Mr Wee Toon Ouut needs little introduction.

For individual diners, you can go for the Steamed or Roasted Single Chicken with Rice ($5.20, $5.70 for drumstick), Vegetable Set ($7.50), Dumpling Set ($8.30), or Vegetable & Dumpling Set ($10.90).

If you come in a group, available are the Quarter Chicken ($8.90), Half Chicken ($17.20) or Whole Chicken ($34.40).

The fresh chickens used are simmered in premium chicken bone stock along with a selection of ingredients at a carefully controlled temperature, so that the poached chicken is more succulent and flavourful.

Best dipped in the accompanying chilli sauce and ginger.

My favourite part was the fluffy rice, with pandan fragrance and not too greasy.

Ah Chiang’s Traditional Porridge
Ah Chiang’s Porridge is my go-to-place for porridge whenever I am at Tiong Bahru. Other than this outlet Tiong Poh Road, Toa Payoh, JEM, this space within The Hainan Story is its fourth.

Founded by Ah Chiang’s uncle since 1968, the porridge is still prepared the same original recipe using the quality rice grains, with no further condiments added. I would usually add a dash of soy sauce and pepper for seasoning.

A set here comes served with two kinds of daily side dishes and you tiao which you can mix in.

My default choice would usually be the Mixed Pork Porridge ($9.50 for set, additional $0.80 for egg) which comes with handmade pork balls and sliced tender pork meat. (Accordingly, they use fresh pork from Tiong Bahru Market and fish from Pasir Panjang Fishery Port.)

While the bowl may look simple and plain, the winning formular is its smooth-creamy consistency with fresh ingredients.

The Hainan Story
Hillion Mall #01-15/16, 17 Petir Road, Singapore 678278
Tel: +65 6970 8191
Opening Hours: 7:30am – 9:30pm (Mon – Sun)
http://www.facebook.com/thehainanstory

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with The Hainan Story.

Another day, another multi-food restaurant concept in Singapore. After Singapura Heritage at The Seletar Mall and The Hainan Story at Hillion Mall, SOCIEATY by Les Amis Group features the best of the group’s favourite offerings under one roof.

Housed in the former Escape of One Farrer Hotel, SOCIEATY contains seven of the Les Amis Group’s concepts, including Tenjin, Hong Kong congee brand Mui Kee, Sushi Jin, Peperoni Pizzeria, Lemak Boys, NamNam and Tarte.

Diners would just need to order by scanning a QR code, with access to more than 100 dishes across the seven concepts.

Ever faced the situation when one picky friend wants to have pizza and the other Japanese – perhaps this can help resolve similar issues.

Also as SOCIEATY is housed in a former hotel buffet restaurant (I thought not much is changed in terms of decor), there is a certain level of comfort and space along with service.

Mui Kee
The original stall of Mui Kee Congee 妹記生滾粥品 in Hong Kong is located at Level 3 of Fa Yuen Street Market Mong Kok, known for its heartiness and incredibly smooth texture.

This is technically Mui Kee’s second outlet in Singapore (and they will also be launching a noodle concept soon). What makes each bowl of congee special is that it is prepared from scratch.

Regular favourites at Mui Kee include Parrot Fish Belly Congee ($11.80), Sliced Beef Congee ($9.80), Homemade Pork Meatballs Congee ($9.80), while there is also the more premium Alaskan Crab Legs Congee ($22). Prices seem to be the same as the Orchard outlet.

The signature fish belly congee in particular is well-loved for a delicious smokiness with wok-hei; best paired with dishes such as Drunken Chicken in Shaoxing Wine ($10) and Poached Kai Lan ($8). Mui Kee (Shaw Centre)

Tenjin
Tenjin serves up Tempura Donburi with Premium Toko-Jo ($22.80), Special Jo ($14.80), Vegetable Yasai ($12.80) and Prawn Ebi ($17.80) sets.

These Tendon come with crispy pieces of seafood and/or vegetable tempura served atop a bed of fluffy Hoshi-Jirushi rice from the Ibaraki prefecture.

All tendons are served with miso soup and Kyabetsu salad, with choice of regular or spicy tare (sauce). Tenjin (Raffles City)

NamNam
Casual Vietnamese quick-service concept NamNam serves up a variety of noodles, including Vietnam’s famous Hanoi Pho with options of Pho Chicken ($11.90), Pho Australian Beef Steak Slices & Balls ($12.90), and Australian beef combination ($12.90) available in spicy or non-spicy versions.

Broths are boiled over 24 hours, garnished with freshly chopped herbs, with no added MSG.

Peperoni Pizzeria
Pepperoni Pizzaria is popular for comforting Italian classics and wood-fired pizzas, with range of flavours from Margherita, Funghi, Hawaiian, Meatball & Scallion, Chicken Truffle, Portobello, Carne (meatballs, bacon, pepperoni, mozzarella), to Frutti Di Mare.

If you come with a group of people, I suggest you just go for the family XXL size of 21 inches ($49.50 onwards) because it is huge and good and fills up the entire table (and your tummy).

Lemak Boys (Opening mid-Dec 2020)
Lemak Boys is one of the newest concept of the Les Amis Group, and the three chefs (also featured in the logo) were from Indigo Blue Kitchen.

This is only available from mid December onwards, and I previously tried it at Shaw House. The key component which is coconut rice while light, fluffy, and slightly fragrant, came room-temperature cold and a tad oily to my liking.

As for the other ingredients I tried, there were a couple of hits and misses. The chunky square of juicy otah, and the crispy fried chicken berempah with spiced-fragrance were the highlights. Lemak Boys (Shaw House)

Sushi Jin
No chirashi don here though. Sushi Jin serves up Bento Boxes with miso soup, with choices of Oyakodon ($18), Katsu-kare Do ($22), Katsu Don ($22), Teriyaki Salmon Don ($26) and Gyudon ($28).

Note that you can only start ordering from this concept at 12pm for lunch (till 2pm last order) at 6:30pm for dinner (till 9pm).

The food also seems to be prepared in Sushi Jin’s kitchen itself (a few units down), and then get sent over to SOCIEATY.

I ordered the Katsu-kare Do ($22) which was unfortunately lacklustre as the pork cutlet was not as crisp as expected, and the curry gravy came disappointingly in a small portion – lacking the heartiness overall.

Tarte by Cheryl Koh
Tarte started out as a takeaway retail concept by Les Amis Group’s Pastry Chef Cheryl Koh.

The store’s popularity went up, especially after when Chef Koh was named “Asia’s Best Pastry Chef” in the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards.

The tarts are available in more than ten flavours – an individual tart size is at 8cm diameter.

They are grouped according to “Fresh Fruit” – Cherry, Strawberry, Pear, Passionfruit Meringue, Clementine, Mixed Seasonal Fruit; “Chocolate & Nut” – Dark Chocolate, Pistachio and Hazelnut Tart; and “Seasonal”.

Quite a number of the popular and seasonal flavours run out pretty soon. So do a quick scan of the counter, and order your favourites FIRST. Tarte by Cheryl Koh (Shaw Centre)

SOCIEATY
1 Farrer Park Station Road, #01-01A One Farrer Hotel & Spa, Singapore 217562
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 2:30pm Last Order 2pm, Dinner 5:30pm – 10pm Last Order 9:30pm (Mon – Sun)

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* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

Even though I went before opening time, I still had to wait for slightly more than an hour for my Moonlight Horfun. Some people had it ‘worse’.

Well, the famous Ipoh Tuck Kee Son 怡保德记仔炒粉 has opened in Singapore.

Restoran Tuck Kee 怡保德记 is considered one of the must-visits when you are in Ipoh, famous for its Cantonese style stir-fry noodles with power wok-hei.

This stall at Noa Nam Building near Jalan Besar is opened by the 3rd gen, thus the “son” in the name.

I actually attempted to queue for a number of times, but put away with the perpetually long-line and decided to turn up before opening hour of 5:30pm – a ‘strategy’ which worked this time.

Even if you see just 8 to 10 pax in front (good news: we all maintain our social distancing on the markers), you may have to wait say about 35 to 45 minutes TO ORDER.

There was a bit of deja vu of the queueing experience as this was where Kok Kee Wanton Mee used to be. (Question: Will Jumbo buy Ipoh Tuck Kee over?)

Get the buzzer and exercise more patience for the food (say another 20 – 30 minutes) to arrive. Helpful with you get a tiny squad to take turns to queue. (Wait, all these is before many other food bloggers *I know I know, don’t hate me* and Mothership even written about it.)

Signature items at Ipoh Tuck Kee Son include the Moonlight Horfun aka Yu Kong Hor ($5.50, $8.50), Baby Octopus in Soy Sauce ($8), Braised Yee Mee ($5, $8), Hokkien Fried Dai Loke Mee ($5, $8), and Fried Low Shu Fun ($5, $8).

The other famous item of War Tan Hor Fun ($5.50, $8.50) is perpetually always “sold out” aka not available.

Yu Kong Hor is called “Moonlight Hor Fun” due to the raw egg yolk that resembles a full moon against the night sky, and in this case on top of the dark wok-fried rice noodles (The other famous zi char place selling this dish is Keng Eng Kee Seafood.)

The Hor Fun is stir fried in savoury-sweet dark soy sauce to add smokiness and distinctive wok-hei to the otherwise bland rice noodles, before adding in lard, pork slices and vegetables.

Each plate of the flat rice noodles is prepared and stir-fried individually, so be prepared to wait a little longer to appreciate the effort.

I thought this was a very good plate of Hor Fun – smooth rice noodles (different from the usual which are thicker), flavours permeated through, with wok-hei though not as much as I would have expected.

The accompany chill sauce with strong belacan flavours was a huge draw for me as well. Perhaps more crunchy pork lard would have sealed the deal.

While I am not typically the biggest fan of octopus, the Baby Octopus in Soy Sauce ($8) is another must-order.

They were first steamed before drizzling shallot oil, fried garlic and spring onion.

The texture of the baby octopus was extremely soft and crunchy, and was totally delicious when dipped in the alluring tangy chilli sauce with peanuts.

Will I queue an hour again for this? Perhaps no, this is easily one of the best Moonlight Hor Fun you can find in Singapore.

Ipoh Tuck Kee Son 怡保德记仔炒粉
No 27 Foch Road Hoa Nam Building #01-02 Coffeeshop Stall No.1, Singapore 209264
Opening Hours: 5:30pm – 9pm (Mon, Thurs), 11:30am – 2pm, 5:30pm – 9pm (Tues, Wed, Fri – Sun)
(Timing changes – do check their Facebook for updates)

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Two Chefs Eating Place (Commonwealth Crescent)

* Written by Daniel Ang @DanielFoodDiary and Nicholas Tan @stormscape. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.