Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects that beautifully. For tourists, trying the local cuisine is an essential part of the experience. From hawker stalls to fine dining, Singapore offers an array of dishes that are simply irresistible. This guide takes you through the top 20 foods you must try in Singapore, where to find them, and the best insider tips to make the most of your culinary adventure.
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Photo credits to Food 8nd Trips
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice
Where to Try: Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (Maxwell Food Centre)
Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street, #01-10/11, Singapore 069184
Hainanese Chicken Rice is a must-try dish in Singapore. Known for its tender poached chicken served over fragrant rice, this dish is all about balance. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the rice is cooked in chicken broth, giving it a flavorful boost. It's typically served with chili sauce, minced ginger, and dark soy sauce on the side. The star of the show is often the rice, with many restaurants perfecting this element to make the dish stand out.
Why Tian Tian?
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre is legendary. It has garnered attention from food critics and even celebrity chefs like Anthony Bourdain. The rice is fragrant and flavorful, and the chicken is tender without being overcooked. Tian Tian is also known for its generous portions and affordable prices.
Insider Tips:
Arrive early to avoid long queues, as it’s one of the most popular stalls at Maxwell Food Centre.
For the full experience, ask for extra ginger sauce, which perfectly complements the flavors of the chicken.
Try pairing the dish with a cold local drink, such as sugarcane juice, available at nearby stalls.
Photo credits to Fire Forty Six
2. Chilli Crab
Where to Try: Jumbo Seafood (Clarke Quay) Address: 30 Merchant Road, #01-01/02 Riverside Point, Singapore 058282
Chilli Crab is perhaps Singapore’s most famous dish. The crab is cooked in a thick, spicy tomato-based sauce, and it’s best enjoyed with your hands. The rich, flavorful gravy has just the right amount of sweetness, spice, and tanginess, making it irresistible when mopped up with fried or steamed mantou buns. It's a must-try for any seafood lover visiting Singapore.
Why Jumbo Seafood? Jumbo Seafood is synonymous with Chilli Crab and is one of the most famous seafood in Singapore. Located in Clarke Quay, this restaurant offers a great riverside dining experience along with its iconic dish. The crabs here are fresh, and the sauce for the Singapore chilli crab is rich, flavorful and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more.
Insider Tips:
Order the fried mantou (Chinese steamed buns) to soak up the rich chilli crab sauce. This pairing is a local favorite.
Try the black pepper crab if you’re looking for a slightly spicier alternative.
Clarke Quay is a great place to explore nightlife after your meal, with bars and clubs nearby.
Photo credits to Kopi Waffles
3. Laksa
Where to Try: 328 Katong Laksa Address: 53 East Coast Road, Singapore 428771
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that combines Chinese and Malay elements, making it a true representation of Singapore’s multicultural food scene. The dish is made with thick rice noodles submerged in a spicy coconut milk broth, topped with prawns, cockles, and fish cakes. The creamy, aromatic broth is what makes Laksa so addictive.
Why 328 Katong Laksa? Located in the heritage-rich Katong district, 328 Katong Laksa is the go-to place for Laksa. Known for its rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles, this stall allows you to enjoy Laksa without the need for chopsticks—the noodles are cut short, so you can easily slurp them with a spoon.
Insider Tips:
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long queues.
Pair your Laksa with Otah (grilled fish cake), a popular side dish available at most Laksa stalls.
Explore the surrounding Katong area, known for its Peranakan heritage and colorful shophouses.
Photo credits to umamidiary
4. Char Kway Teow
Where to Try: Hill Street Char Kway Teow Address: 16 Bedok South Road, Singapore 460016
Char Kway Teow is a beloved dish in Singapore, made with flat rice noodles stir-fried with eggs, Chinese sausages, bean sprouts, and prawns. Often cooked with lard for extra flavour, it’s a savoury, smoky, and slightly sweet dish. The key to a good Char Kway Teow is achieving the "wok hei" or "breath of the wok," which gives the dish its characteristic smoky flavour.
Why Hill Street Char Kway Teow? Hill Street Char Kway Teow has been serving up this delicious dish for decades. The stall is famous for its flavorful, well-balanced version of the dish, cooked to perfection in a hot wok. The prawns are fresh, and the noodles have that much-coveted smoky flavor.
Insider Tips:
Order your Char Kway Teow with extra chili for a spicy kick.
Ask for more Chinese sausage if you prefer a sweeter version.
Try to get there early, as the stall tends to sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
Photo credits to Foodpanda
5. Hokkien Mee
Where to Try: Nam Sing Hokkien Mee (Old Airport Road Food Centre) Address: 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051
Hokkien Mee is another popular noodle dish in Singapore, consisting of yellow noodles and rice vermicelli stir-fried with prawns, squid, and eggs in a rich, seafood broth. The dish is finished with a dollop of sambal chili and a squeeze of lime, which enhances its flavors.
Why Nam Sing Hokkien Mee? Nam Sing Hokkien Mee at Old Airport Road Food Centre is known for its perfectly balanced flavors and generous servings of seafood. The noodles are cooked in prawn and pork broth, giving the dish a rich umami flavor that’s hard to resist. Nam Sing’s version is lighter and less oily, making it a favorite among locals.
Insider Tips:
Squeeze the lime over your noodles for an extra burst of freshness.
Pair your Hokkien Mee with a glass of sugarcane juice for a refreshing contrast.
Explore the Old Airport Road Food Centre, home to some of the best hawker food in Singapore.
Photo credits to The Occasional Craving
6. Roti Prata
Where to Try: Mr. and Mrs. Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata Address: 300 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427551
Roti Prata is a popular Indian flatbread in Singapore, usually served with a side of curry. It’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and can be eaten plain or with fillings such as eggs, onions, or even cheese. The dish is typically enjoyed as a breakfast item but can be eaten at any time of the day.
Why Mr. and Mrs. Mohgan’s? This unassuming stall in Joo Chiat is famous for its crispy Roti Prata. The prata here is flaky and buttery, with just the right amount of crispiness. It’s no wonder that locals and tourists alike flock here for their prata fix. The accompanying curry is flavorful and has the right balance of spices.
Insider Tips:
Try the egg prata or cheese prata for a more indulgent option.
Pair your prata with Teh Tarik, a frothy milk tea that perfectly complements the dish.
Visit early in the morning to avoid long queues, as the stall is known to sell out quickly.
Photo credits to Aaron and Claire
7. Satay
Where to Try: Lau Pa Sat Satay Street Address: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582
Satay is a beloved street food in Singapore, consisting of skewered and grilled meats served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. Whether you opt for chicken, beef, mutton, or even prawn satay, the key to a great satay lies in its marinade and the perfect char from grilling over an open flame. This dish is typically served with cucumber, onion, and rice cakes (ketupat) to balance the richness of the peanut sauce.
Why Lau Pa Sat Satay Street? Lau Pa Sat’s Satay Street is a must-visit for tourists who want to experience satay in an atmospheric setting. Located in the heart of the financial district, this street transforms into a satay haven at night, with numerous vendors setting up grills and selling this delectable dish. The smoky aroma that fills the air and the bustling nightlife around you make for an unforgettable experience.
Insider Tips:
Arrive in the evening, as that’s when Satay Street comes alive.
Order a mix of chicken, beef, and mutton satay for a variety of flavors.
Pair your satay with a cold local beer or a glass of sugarcane juice from nearby stalls.
Photo credits to Tripadvisor
8. Bak Kut Teh
Where to Try: Founder Bak Kut Teh
Address: 347 Balestier Road, Singapore 329777
Bak Kut Teh, or pork rib soup, is a comforting and flavorful dish that is loved by many in Singapore. The dish is traditionally made by simmering pork ribs in a peppery broth flavored with garlic, soy sauce, and a variety of herbs and spices. The result is a rich, flavorful soup that is typically served with rice, fried dough sticks (you tiao), and a side of preserved vegetables.
Why Founder Bak Kut Teh?
Founder Bak Kut Teh is one of the most famous places to try this dish in Singapore. Located in the Balestier area, this restaurant has been serving up bowls of piping hot Bak Kut Teh for decades. The soup is known for its robust peppery flavor and the pork ribs are tender and fall off the bone. Celebrities and food lovers alike frequent this spot, making it a must-visit for tourists.
Insider Tips:
Don’t miss the crispy fried dough sticks (you tiao), which are perfect for dipping into the broth.
If you prefer a less peppery version, request a milder broth.
Explore Balestier Road after your meal, an area known for its historic shophouses and food heritage.
Photo credits to Johor Kaki
9. Carrot Cake (Chai Tow Kway)
Where to Try: Chey Sua Carrot Cake Address: 127 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #02-30 Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre, Singapore 310127
Carrot Cake in Singapore is nothing like the Western dessert with cream cheese frosting. It’s a savory dish made from radish cake that is stir-fried with eggs, garlic, and preserved radish, also known as "chai poh." There are two styles of this dish: black (with sweet soy sauce) and white (without soy sauce). Both versions are equally delicious and are a staple at Singapore’s hawker centres.
Why Chey Sua Carrot Cake? Chey Sua is famous for its white version of carrot cake. The stall has been serving this dish for years, and it’s known for its crispy exterior and soft interior. The dish is pan-fried to perfection, giving it a delightful contrast of textures. The carrot cake is diced into small cubes and fried with eggs, creating a fragrant and flavorful meal.
Insider Tips:
Ask for extra chai poh (preserved radish) for more flavor.
Try both the black and white versions to see which one you prefer.
Head to Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre early, as Chey Sua tends to sell out before noon.
Photo credits to Tripadvisor
10. Nasi Lemak
Where to Try: The Coconut Club Address: 6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787
Nasi Lemak is a traditional Malay dish that has become a staple in Singapore’s food scene. The dish consists of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with fried chicken or fish, a boiled egg, peanuts, ikan bilis (fried anchovies), and a spicy sambal chili paste. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Why The Coconut Club?The Coconut Club has elevated this humble dish to gourmet levels, using premium ingredients to create a more refined version of Nasi Lemak. The rice is incredibly fragrant, and the fried chicken is crispy and tender. The sambal is spicy but balanced, and the entire dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Insider Tips:
The Coconut Club is a popular spot, so it’s best to make a reservation, especially during peak hours.
Pair your meal with a traditional Kopi (coffee) or Teh (tea) for the full experience.
After your meal, explore the nearby Ann Siang Hill, a charming area known for its colonial shophouses and trendy cafes.
Photo credits to Tripadvisor
11. Oyster Omelette (Orh Luak)
Where to Try: Ah Chuan Oyster Omelette
Address: 85 Fengshan Centre, Bedok North Road, Singapore 460085
Oyster Omelette, or "Orh Luak" as it’s known locally, is a savory dish made from a mixture of eggs, tapioca starch, and fresh oysters. The dish is fried to crispy perfection, with the tapioca starch giving the omelette its unique chewy texture. The oysters are fresh and juicy, providing a burst of flavor with every bite. A side of spicy chili sauce is typically served with the omelette for an extra kick.
Why Ah Chuan Oyster Omelette?
Ah Chuan at Fengshan Centre is known for serving some of the best oyster omelettes in Singapore. The omelette is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with generous portions of fresh, plump oysters. The dish is cooked over high heat, ensuring that the oysters remain juicy while the omelette achieves the perfect balance of textures.
Insider Tips:
Ask for extra chili sauce if you like your food spicy.
Pair your oyster omelette with a cold sugarcane drink from a nearby stall.
Fengshan Centre, also known as "Bedok 85," is a famous hawker centre where you can try other popular dishes like BBQ stingray and bak chor mee.
Photo credits to The Fat Guide
12. Mee Rebus
Where to Try: Warong Pak Sapari (Adam Road Food Centre)
Address: 2 Adam Road, #01-10, Singapore 289876
Mee Rebus is a Malay dish consisting of yellow noodles drenched in a thick, savory gravy made from sweet potatoes, shrimp paste, and spices. The dish is usually topped with hard-boiled eggs, tofu, and green chilies, and is garnished with fried shallots and lime juice for added flavor. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy elements makes Mee Rebus a satisfying and hearty meal.
Why Warong Pak Sapari?
Warong Pak Sapari at Adam Road Food Centre is famous for its rich and flavorful Mee Rebus. The gravy is thick and creamy, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The stall has been around for decades, and its consistency in delivering high-quality Mee Rebus has earned it a loyal following.
Insider Tips:
Add a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.
Try the stall’s Mee Soto as well, another popular noodle dish that’s equally delicious.
Visit Adam Road Food Centre early in the morning for breakfast, as the Mee Rebus sells out quickly.
Photo credits to Lifestyle Asia
13. Fish Head Curry
Where to Try: Muthu’s Curry
Address: 138 Race Course Road, Singapore 218591
Fish Head Curry is a unique dish that combines South Indian spices with a Chinese twist. The dish features a large fish head (typically red snapper) cooked in a spicy curry gravy along with vegetables like okra and eggplant. The curry is tangy, spicy, and rich, making it a flavor-packed meal. Served with rice or bread, it’s a dish that reflects Singapore’s multicultural culinary heritage.
Why Muthu’s Curry?
Muthu’s Curry is a household name when it comes to Fish Head Curry in Singapore. Situated in Little India, this iconic restaurant has been serving this dish since 1969. The curry here is a blend of Indian and Chinese flavors, with the fish head cooked to tender perfection. Muthu’s also offers a range of other South Indian dishes, but the Fish Head Curry is the star attraction.
Insider Tips:
Pair your Fish Head Curry with a side of garlic naan or white rice for the best experience.
The restaurant offers both spicy and non-spicy versions, so choose according to your heat tolerance.
After your meal, explore Little India, which is known for its vibrant streets, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Photo credits to British Hainan
14. Hainanese Pork Chop
Where to Try: British Hainan
Address: 75 Carpmael Road, Singapore 429812
Hainanese Pork Chop is a dish with colonial roots, blending Western cooking techniques with Asian flavors. It consists of pork chops marinated and fried to crispy perfection, then served with a savory tomato-based gravy. Typically accompanied by fries and a side of vegetables, this dish is a throwback to Singapore’s colonial history and a favorite at Hainanese restaurants.
Why British Hainan?
British Hainan, located in the Joo Chiat area, is known for serving one of the best versions of Hainanese Pork Chop in Singapore. The pork chops are well-seasoned and fried to a golden crisp, and the tangy tomato sauce complements the dish perfectly. The restaurant’s vintage decor adds to the old-world charm, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Insider Tips:
Try their other Hainanese Western fusion dishes like oxtail stew or chicken chop.
Make a reservation, as the restaurant can get busy, especially during weekends.
Explore Joo Chiat’s rich Peranakan heritage after your meal for a cultural experience.
Photo credits to Capitaland
15. Kaya Toast
Where to Try: Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Address: 18 China Street, #01-01 Far East Square, Singapore 049560
Kaya Toast is a quintessential Singaporean breakfast item that’s simple yet delightful. It consists of thin, crispy slices of toast slathered with kaya (a sweet, coconut-egg jam) and a generous amount of butter. Typically served with soft-boiled eggs and a cup of kopi (local coffee), it’s the perfect way to start your day in Singapore. The combination of sweet kaya, savory butter, and runny eggs creates an addictive flavor.
Why Ya Kun Kaya Toast?
Ya Kun Kaya Toast is an iconic chain that has been serving this traditional dish since 1944. Their kaya is handmade, giving it a rich and authentic flavor. The toast is crispy, and the butter melts perfectly with the kaya, creating the ultimate sweet-salty balance. Ya Kun’s outlets can be found across Singapore, but the original branch at Far East Square offers a nostalgic dining experience.
Insider Tips:
Try dipping the toast into the soft-boiled eggs for an authentic local way to enjoy the dish.
Pair your meal with Teh Tarik (pulled tea) for a traditional breakfast experience.
After breakfast, explore the surrounding Far East Square for a glimpse of Singapore’s history.
Photo credits to Lifestyle Asia
16. Popiah
Where to Try: Qi Ji
Address: Various outlets (e.g., Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria Street, #B1-K2, Singapore 188021)
Popiah is a fresh spring roll filled with a variety of ingredients such as shredded turnip, carrots, bean sprouts, egg, and sometimes prawns or Chinese sausage. It’s wrapped in a soft, thin crepe and eaten with a sweet, savory hoisin sauce and chili paste. The fresh and light flavors of Popiah make it a great snack or a light meal.
Why Qi Ji?
Qi Ji is a popular chain that specializes in Popiah, among other local delights. Their Popiah is known for its fresh ingredients, generous fillings, and perfectly balanced flavors. Qi Ji’s outlets are conveniently located across Singapore, making it easy for tourists to grab a quick and healthy meal while exploring the city.
Insider Tips:
Customize your Popiah by adding extra chili for a spicier kick or more peanuts for a crunchier texture.
Pair your Popiah with a bowl of Laksa or Mee Siam for a more substantial meal.
Visit the Bugis Junction outlet for a convenient meal stop while shopping or exploring Bugis Street.
Photo credits to Yahoo Lifestyle Singapore
17. Mee Goreng
Where to Try: M.A. Deen Biasa (Jalan Sultan)
Address: 95 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 198998
Mee Goreng is a popular Indian Muslim dish in Singapore, consisting of yellow noodles stir-fried with a spicy tomato sauce, eggs, vegetables, and often seafood like prawns or squid. The dish has a tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy flavor profile, making it a crowd favorite at hawker centres and Indian Muslim stalls across the island.
Why M.A. Deen Biasa?
M.A. Deen Biasa is renowned for its hearty portions and flavorful Mee Goreng. Located in the culturally rich Kampong Glam area, the stall serves up a version of Mee Goreng that is packed with spices and ingredients, offering a satisfying and filling meal. The noodles are stir-fried to perfection, with just the right amount of char and smokiness.
Insider Tips:
For a more indulgent option, order the Mee Goreng Mamak, which includes extra ingredients like mutton or seafood.
After your meal, take a walk around Kampong Glam and visit the iconic Sultan Mosque.
Head over in the evening for a more relaxed dining experience, as the area tends to be quieter at night.
Photo credits to TimeOut
18. Durian
Where to Try: Ah Seng Durian
Address: 20 Ghim Moh Road, #01-197, Singapore 270020
Durian, known as the "king of fruits," is a divisive fruit that’s loved by many in Singapore. Its strong odor and creamy, custard-like texture make it an unforgettable experience for anyone daring enough to try it. Durian comes in many varieties, but the most popular types in Singapore include the Mao Shan Wang (Musang King) and D24, both known for their rich flavor and creamy texture.
Why Ah Seng Durian?
Ah Seng Durian is one of the most reputable durian sellers in Singapore. Located at Ghim Moh, this stall is known for offering high-quality durians at reasonable prices. The owner ensures that each durian is fresh and ripe, and they even offer durians that are pre-opened and packed for easy consumption.
Insider Tips:
For the ultimate durian experience, go for the Mao Shan Wang variety, which is prized for its rich, bittersweet flavor.
Visit during the durian season (typically June to September) for the freshest and most affordable durians.
Pair your durian with a cold drink like iced sugarcane juice to balance the richness.
Photo credits to 313@Somerset
19. Curry Puff
Where to Try: Old Chang Kee
Address: Various outlets (e.g., 89 Neil Road, Singapore 088849)
The Curry Puff is a popular snack in Singapore, filled with a spicy curry mixture of potatoes, chicken, and sometimes egg, all encased in a crispy pastry. It’s portable, affordable, and incredibly satisfying. With its golden, flaky exterior and flavorful filling, Curry Puffs are a must-try for tourists looking for a quick bite on the go.
Why Old Chang Kee?
Old Chang Kee is a household name when it comes to Curry Puffs. With outlets located all over Singapore, this chain has been serving their signature snacks for decades. Their curry puffs are well-known for their crispy crust and generous, flavorful fillings. The chain offers a variety of flavors, but the classic chicken curry puff remains the most popular.
Insider Tips:
Try the sardine puff or black pepper chicken puff for a twist on the classic.
Grab a few puffs to take with you while sightseeing, as they make for a great portable snack.
Visit the Neil Road outlet, the original location where Old Chang Kee started, for a bit of history along with your snack.
Photo credits to The Best Singapore
20. Chilli Crab
Where to Try: Jumbo Seafood
Address: 30 Merchant Road, #01-01/02 Riverside Point, Singapore 058282
Chilli Crab is the crown jewel of Singapore’s culinary scene, often hailed as one of the country's most iconic dishes. This savory seafood delicacy features fresh crabs—usually mud crabs—bathed in a rich, thick sauce that balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The sauce is made with a tomato and chili base, creating a harmonious mix of flavors that pairs perfectly with fried mantou (Chinese buns). The succulent crab meat, combined with the addictive sauce, makes this a must-try for any visitor.
Why Jumbo Seafood?
Jumbo Seafood is a top-tier choice for indulging in Chilli Crab, renowned for its expertise in preparing seafood. Located at Riverside Point, the restaurant offers not only delicious food but also breathtaking views of the Singapore River, making it an ideal dining destination. Jumbo’s Chilli Crab has gained international acclaim due to its consistent quality, with crabs that are always fresh and cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s blend of sweet and savory flavors in the sauce makes it one of the best places in Singapore to enjoy this dish.
Insider Tips:
Don’t skip the mantou! These fried buns are essential for soaking up the flavorful crab sauce. Trust us—you’ll want every drop.
Arrive early or make a reservation, as Jumbo Seafood is a popular spot and can get crowded during peak hours.
After dining, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Singapore River for a beautiful night view of the city skyline. Conclusion
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and its rich food heritage is evident in the vast array of dishes available. From local hawker fare like Laksa and Hainanese Chicken Rice to iconic seafood like Chilli Crab, every dish tells a story about Singapore’s vibrant culinary history. When visiting Singapore, make sure to explore these 20 must-try dishes to fully experience the city's unique flavors.
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