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Authentic Food Quest Authentic Food Quest
  • About
    • What is Authentic Food Quest
    • Work With Us / Media
    • Contact Us
  • Destinations
  • Eat
    • Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Street Food
    • Restaurants
  • Drink
  • Recipes
  • Shop
    • Food Itineraries
    • Books
    • International Food
    • Cookbooks
  • Resources
    • Accommodations
    • Cooking Classes
    • Food & Wine Tours
    • Food Traveler Tips
    • People in Food
Jul 10
Food in Singapore Authentic Food Quest

Top 12 Authentic Food in Singapore You Want To Try

  • Rosemary
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  • Singapore, Dishes, Restaurants
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Pinterest top 12 Food in Singapore Authentic Food Quest

When “Makan” or have you eaten, is the main greeting in Singapore, that immediately tells you something about the importance of food in the country.

On our quest for Authentic Food in Singapore, we were surprised by the depth and diversity of the local flavors.

Food in Singapore has cultural influences from everywhere, and have been assembled together to create something totally unique. You’ll find Chinese, Indonesian, Southern Indian influences and not surprisingly, a significant Malay influence.

Choosing the 12 authentic food and dishes to highlight was actually a really difficult task. The country offers so much to choose from, and there are many similarities to the food in Malaysia.

This list is by no means exhaustive, but it does take you on a culinary journey across the island to taste the best authentic Singapore food.

Are you ready to eat? Let’s go!

Article last updated July 8th 2019 with additional resources
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Table of Contents

  • 1 – Chili Crab – The National Dish of Singapore
    • Where to Eat Chili Crab in Singapore
  • 2- Hainanese Chicken – Chicken Rice from Hainan Province
    • Where To Eat Hainanese Chicken in Singapore
  • 3- Nasi Lemak –Famous Malay Local Dish
    • Where to Eat Nasi Lemak in Singapore
  • 4 – Otak-Otak – A Nyonya Cuisine Specialty
    • Where to Eat Nyonya Food in Singapore
  • 5 – Bak Kut Teh – Pork Rib Soup
    • Where to Eat Bak Kut Teh in Singapore
  • 6- Kaya Toast with Kopi – Singapore’s National Breakfast
    • Where to Have Kaya Toast in Singapore
  • 7 – Murtabak – Stuffed Folded Omelette Pancake
    • Where to Eat Murtabak in Singapore
  • 8- Biryani  – Aromatic Fried Rice Dish
    • Where to Have Biryani in Singapore
  • 9- Roti Prata – South Indian Flatbread
    • Where to Eat Roti Prata in Singapore
  • 10- Fried Hokkien Mee – Famous Singapore Stir Fried Noodles
    • Where to Eat Hokkien Mee in Singapore
  • 11- Char Kway Teow – Famous Local Singapore Food
    • Where to Have Char Kway Teow in Singapore
  • 12 – Pork Satay – Singapore’s Favorite Late Night Food
    • Where to Have Pork Satay in Singapore
  • In Summary
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1 – Chili Crab – The National Dish of Singapore

A 2011 CNN poll ranked the World’s 50 Best Foods and Singapore Chili Crab made the list at number #35.

Your visit to Singapore will not be complete without trying this famous food in Singapore which is an iconic Singaporean seafood dish. While there are ways to cook up the delicious crab, the two most famous styles are Singapore crab with a spicy tomato chili sauce and crab with black pepper sauce.

This dish is said to have been invented from a pushcart in 1956, by a husband who asked his wife to experiment with other methods of cooking crab other than steaming. After adding chili to stir-fried crab in tomato sauce, their crabs became wildly popular.

Later, a local chef added a slight twist to the dish using sambal sauce (local chili and shrimp paste), tomato paste and eggs to cook the gravy. This has now become the version most commonly served in Singapore.  

Our friend Sheena, a teacher in Singapore who writes about off-beat adventures and delicious foods at estsyexplores.com, guided us through the Singapore chili crab experience.

At Mellben Seafood, one of the Singapore must-eat restaurants, we had chili crab and clay pot crab vermicelli soup (clay pot crab bee hoon) accompanied with salted egg yolk green beans.

The crabs were gigantic in size with the juiciest and succulent chunks of meat we have ever eaten. The chili crab is actually not chili or spicy despite its name. It is slathered in a thick delicious chili paste which is perfect to dip fried buns called mantous, which are served with the crab.

Chili Crab for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest, Don't miss this famous local food Singapore 2018. Delicious Singapore local foodChili Crab - one of the famous local foods in Singapore

The amazingly flavorful broth of the claypot crab bee hoon soup made us melt from the first spoon of soup. The milky aromatic broth filled with meaty and chunky pieces of crab took us straight to culinary heaven. Combined with the delicate vermicelli noodles, we couldn’t help but keep slurping away at this delightful soup.

Claypot Crab for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is one of the most popular dishes in Singapore and a must eat local famous food Singapore.Flavorful Claypot Crab Bee Hoon - another famous local food in Singapore
Mantous for dipping into famous local food in Singapore like Chili Crab for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. The perfect accompaniment for your Singapore food guide and the famous local foods SingaporeMantous for dipping in the famous Singapore Chili Crab

Where to Eat Chili Crab in Singapore

Mellben Seafood is a local Tze Char restaurant (also spelled Che Char or Zi Char) which are uniquely Singaporean restaurants that serve home-style dishes in more elaborate settings than hawker centers. The prices are also more expensive than hawker centers, but cheaper than upscale restaurants.

This particular location was in Toa Payoh, a  residential neighborhood. In the open courtyard setting are several restaurants, hawker stalls, fruit stands, and local shops.

Mellben Seafood TPY

Address: Blk 211 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 #01-11/15, Singapore 310211

Hours: Daily, 4:30 pm to 11:30 pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: SGD 55, approx $39.70 USD

Tze Char restaurant Singapore Food Authentic Food QuestMellben Seafood, Tze Char restaurant for the best Singapore crab

Jumbo Seafood

While we didn’t eat here, Jumbo Seafood is also recommended by locals for their award winning chili crab.

Jumbo Seafood

Address: East Coast Seafood Center, Blk 1206 East Coast Parkway #01-07/08

Hours: Daily, 5:00pm – 11:00pm, Sunday’s, 12:00pm – 12:00am

Average Food Price in Singapore: SGD 50.00, approx $36.00 USD

Authentic Food Quest Tip: Explore the food in Singapore with a local guide and taste the local specialties while learning about the city’s history. Book a Singapore food tour and go deeper in one of the world’s best food cities.

2- Hainanese Chicken – Chicken Rice from Hainan Province

This is one of my favorite local Singapore foods. What I love about Hainanese chicken is that it is as succulent as it is simple. It practically melts in your mouth.

Hainanese chicken is a rice dish with juicy steamed white chicken cut into thin pieces. The chicken is served over fragrant rice with light soy sauce. The dish is topped with cilantro and sesame oil and accompanied by with a garlic-chili sauce. The rice is cooked in the chicken broth with ginger and pandan leaves giving it its unique fragrance.

This traditional food in Singapore comes from Chinese immigrants from the province of Hainan in Southern China. They kept the traditional methods of cooking the chicken and rice, which give this dish its unique flavors.

Hainanese Chicken for Hawker Center Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is the best Hainanese chicken from Tian Tian food stall in Singapore.Unbelievably flavorful Hainanese chicken rice

Our visit to Singapore would not have been complete if we did not eat at this stall, ranked one of the best hawker food stalls in Singapore. After waiting in line, we sat down to enjoy the most tender chicken and flavorful rice that exceeded all other chicken and rice dishes we’d had previously. Satisfied and content, we recognized that same look in diners eating close by.

Tian Tian is one of the best hawker food stalls in Singapore and celebrated for the Hainanese chicken rice. It has been popularized by celebrity chefs like Anthony Bourdain as well as voted by locals as the best chicken rice in Singapore.

Where To Eat Hainanese Chicken in Singapore

In Singapore, you will find many places where you can have Hainanese chicken. Every Singaporean has their own favorite Hainanese chicken stall.

While Tian Tian was our favorite, we also discovered Eng Kee food stall at Eunos hawker center where we were staying.

Like at Tian Tian, you also have to wait in line at this popular vendor to get this famous local Singapore food.

Tian Tian

Address: Maxwell Road Food Center, 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore.

Hours: Everyday, 8:00 am – 11:00 pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: About SGD 3.50, approx $2.50 USD

Tian Tian for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. Tian Tian is famous for local food in Singapore, especially for Hainanese chicken. Tian Tian is one of the best local restaurants in SingaporeWaiting in line at Tian Tian at Maxwell center one of the best hawker centers in Singapore

Eng Kee – Eunos Food Center

Address: Eunos Food Center, 7 Eunos Crescent, Singapore.

Hours: Open every day from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Average Food Price in Singapore: About SGD 2.80, approx $2.00 USD

EngKee_FoodinSingapore_AuthenticFoodQuestThe queue for chicken rice at Eng Kee food stall at Eunos hawker center

3- Nasi Lemak –Famous Malay Local Dish

Nasi Lemak is a Malay dish is a very popular food in Singapore. There are several ways of preparing it, though at the core, it  is a rich rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf. 

This popular Singapore food is typically served with deep-fried fish or chicken wings, grilled fish paste, fried anchovies and peanuts, eggs, cucumber slices, and sambal (spicy chilli paste).

Flavorful and rich, this hearty dish and best eaten when you have a big appetite.

Nasi Lemak Anchovies for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This food guide gives you the most famous dishes in Singapore and what to eat in Singapore in 2018A hearty plate of Nasi Lemak, a popular local Singapore dish

Where to Eat Nasi Lemak in Singapore

Nasi Lemak Kukus

This local joint and self-service concept is quite popular with Singapore locals. With your meal, you can have unlimited rice and sambal chili sauce. With this option, you can have Nasi Lemak with different sides and taste the local specialties all on one plate.

From experience, we found the rice to be quite addictive. When you taste it once, you’ll want to have more. For the sides, we recommend the lamb and the anchovies. These two local Singapore foods were definitely our favorites.

The food and concept is quite unique and you won’t be disappointed either by the decor. The illustrated walls, where customers can write messages, makes this local restaurant a unique venue for your food travels to Singapore.

Nasi Lemak Kukus

Address: 229 Selegie Road, Singapore

Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm, closed on Sundays.

Average Food Price in Singapore: About SGD 4.00, approx $2.90USD

Nasi Lemak Kukus for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is one of the best affordable restaurants in SingaporeWriting on the walls is part of the eating experience at Nasi Lemak Kukus

4 – Otak-Otak – A Nyonya Cuisine Specialty

Otak Otak is a popular classic Nyonya specialty that can be found in Malaysia and Singapore alike. 

Nyonya cuisine refers to the cuisine from the descendants of the early Chinese immigrants who settled in Malaysia and Singapore. The cuisine is the result of blending Chinese ingredients with various distinct spices and cooking techniques used by the Malay.

Otak Otak actually means “brains” in Malay due to its texture and shape. Not to worry however, this food in Singapore has nothing to do with brains.

This popular Singapore food is grilled or steamed fish cake made with the fillet of fish which is mixed with tapioca starch, and wrapped in a banana leaf. This dish can be eaten as a snack or as a main meal with a side of rice.

We enjoyed this dish as an appetizer and we found it light and refined in taste. A nice treat to open up to Nyonya flavors.

READ our article about discovering Nyonya food in Malaysia

Otak Otak for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. Otak Otak is one of the famous local foods that people eat in Singapore.Otak Otak or steamed fish cakes

Where to Eat Nyonya Food in Singapore

Guan Hoe Soon is a Nyonya restaurant located in the Joo Chiat neighborhood, popularly known as a foodie haven. Opened since 1953, it is one of the oldest Nyonya restaurants in Singapore.

Dedicated to Nyonya cuisine, you will find several Nyonya specialties to enjoy including the delicious Otak-Otak.

Guan Hoe Soon

Address: 40 Joo Chiat Pl, Singapore

Hours: Open every day, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: Expect to pay SGD8.00 for Otak-Otak appetizer ($5.80 USD). A main dish costs about SGD $20.00 to $30.00, approx $15.00 to $20.00 USD

NyonyaGuanHoeSoon_FoodinSingapore_AuthenticFoodQuestThe interior of Guan Hoe Soon Nyonya Restaurant

5 – Bak Kut Teh – Pork Rib Soup

This humble dish of Chinese origin is one of the most popular Singapore foods. It is also popular in Malaysia and we actually had it in Kuala Lumpur, the capital.

Bak Kut Tey is a pork rib soup, made up of juicy pork ribs, simmered for hours in a rich herbal broth. While it sounds simple, the soup is actually highly complex and demands the right amount of peppers, garlic among other ingredients to achieve the best flavors.

The name Bak Kut Tey, literally means meat bone tea and is in reference to the Chinese tea that is consumed with this dish.

We enjoyed this delicious soup and found the broth flavorful and peppery. Not spicy, but just the right amount of flavors for a nice bite. Having boiled for hours, the pork was tender and literally fell off the bones.

Bak Kut Teh for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is a famous local soup to eat in Singapore for dinner. Bak Kut Teh is another famous local food to eat in Singapore.A steaming bowl of Bak Kut Teh soup

Where to Eat Bak Kut Teh in Singapore

To taste this famous food in Singapore, the following restaurant was recommended by locals and rated one of the top spots to try Bak Kut Teh in Singapore.

Founder Bak Kut Teh

This restaurant has been serving Singapore Bak Kut Teh for over 40 years. It is an institution that is globally famous for its meaty, pork ribs simmered in a delicious broth, using a family secret recipe.

Address: 347 Balestier Road, Singapore 329777

Hours: 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 2:00 am (Closed on Tuesday)

Average Food Price in Singapore: Expect to pay between SGD 6.50 to SGD 10.00 (approx $4.50 USD to $7.50 USD)

Authentic Food Quest Tip: Singapore is a food obsessed country. One of the best ways to taste the culture is to take a cooking class. Learn how to cook Singapore’s most famous dishes, when you book your cooking class here.

6- Kaya Toast with Kopi – Singapore’s National Breakfast

Toast and coffee might not seem that exciting as a breakfast dish. But in Singapore, it is treasured. We first tasted Kaya Toast and Kopi (coffee) when we landed in Singapore’s Changi Airport and were immediately blown away. The taste and flavors are outstanding.

Kaya toast is toasted bread with butter and kaya, a jam made from eggs, sugar, coconut milk, and pandan leaves. Not too sweet, this is one of the most delicious jams we’ve had.

The breakfast dish is enhanced even further when paired with soft boiled eggs and a steaming cup of coffee or tea.

Kopi, the signature coffee drink comes with sugar, sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. This famous breakfast food in Singapore is the perfect start to a new day or for a snack in the middle of the day.

Kaya Toast for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. How to order local Singapore coffee is quite easy with the ordering coffee map at Toast Box. Singapore coffee is a local favorite. It is one of the famous local foods in SingaporeUnbelievably delicious Kaya Toast and Kopi

Where to Have Kaya Toast in Singapore

We had Kaya toast several times, and each time our appreciation of the flavors increased.  We stumbled onto Toast Box, while escaping the rain on a chilly afternoon and enjoyed Kaya Toast and hot Kopi in a cozy environment.

Ya Kun Kaya Toast is a popular Singaporean chain with locations throughout the city. At Chiang Airport, be sure to stop at Wang Cafe for the last time or for a “welcome to Singapore” breakfast.

Toast Box

Address: More than 70 locations across the island

Hours: Daily, 8:00 am – 10:30 pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: Between SGD 2.00 for Kaya Toast and SGD 1.50 for Kopi, approx $1.44 USD to $1.10 USD

Ya Kun Kaya Toast

Address: Several locations throughout the island

Hours: Daily, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: Between SGD 2.00 for Kaya Toast and SGD 1.50 for Kopi, approx $1.44 USD to $1.10 USD

Wang Cafe

Address: Changi Airport, Terminal 1, #01-02,

Hours: Everyday, 24/7

Average Food Price in Singapore: Between SGD 2.00 for Kaya Toast and SGD 1.50 for Kopi, approx $1.44 USD to $1.10 USD

7 – Murtabak – Stuffed Folded Omelette Pancake

We love Indian food, although most of the Indian dishes we’ve had have been mostly in the U.S. Murtabak, this famous Singapore food was new to the both of us and highly recommended as a dish not to miss in Singapore.

The single place that kept coming up to have Murtabak was Zam Zam, an Indian Muslim restaurant with an international reputation.

Murtabak is a like a huge and stuffed pancake filled with either chicken, beef, and mutton, which are the most popular fillings. However, you can also find venison and sardine versions as well.

At Zam Zam, we ordered their signature chicken Murtabak. Given this calorie-laden and oversized dish, we opted to share just one.

Murtabak at one of the best affordable restaurants in Singapore. This food in Singapore is one of the best dishes to eat in Singapore for dinner. It is also one of the famous local food Singapore.Murtabak at ZamZam restaurant in Singapore

There is everything to like about Murtabak. Layers of crispy buttery naan pastry with a golden, flaky appearance. Bursting on the inside are chunks of succulent chicken, folds of egg and sweet onions, and spices that give it an orange glow.

The Murtabak comes with a bowl of thick chicken curry, that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

While Murtabak is flavourful on its own, it reaches a higher level of deliciousness when coated liberally with the curry sauce.

Zam zam for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is one of the best affordable restaurants in Singapore. For what to eat in Singapore, Zam Zam is the place to go.Zam Zam, one of the best local restaurants in Singapore

Where to Eat Murtabak in Singapore

Singapore Zam Zam

This is one of the best local restaurants for Murtabak, and it is also one of the oldest restaurants in Singapore, founded in 1908.

At Zam Zam, watch the theatrics of different vendors flipping dough and sizzling flatbread. It is truly fascinating to watch the preparation of Murtabak.

Address: 679 North Bridge Road

Hours: Daily, 7:00am to 11:00pm

Sizes: Five different sizes: Small, Medium, Large, Special, Super Special

Average Food Price In Singapore: Prices range from SGD 6.00 to SGD 17.00, approx $4.30 USD to $12.30 USD

8- Biryani  – Aromatic Fried Rice Dish

Biryani is a fried rice dish of Indian Muslim influence and a popular food in Singapore. The rice used is a distinctive long grain rice, usually Basmati rice, which cooks to a light and fluffy texture.

Meats can be added and the most popular are chicken, mutton or fish. The spices used are heavy in flavor with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and bay leaves. In one dish, the rice is served with the accompanying chicken or mutton curry.

Biryani for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. The common ingredients in this Singaporean cuisine are all familiar, but it is the combination that makes this local famous food one of the dishes to eat in Singapore 2018.Flavorful Chicken Biryani

Where to Have Biryani in Singapore

You’ll find Biryani at several Singapore hawker centers. We enjoyed this simple and fragrant dish at Eunos hawker center, where we stayed. Listed below are additional recommendations given to us by locals.

Allauddin’s Biryani, Tekka Center

Address: 665 Buffalo Rd, #01-229, Tekka Food Centre

Hours: Daily, 9:00am – 8:00pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: Between SGD 4.50 – SGD 6.50, approx $3.25 USD to $4.70 USD

Singapore Zam Zam

Address: 679 North Bridge Road

Hours: Daily, 7:00am to 11:00pm

Average Food Price in Singapore: SGD 6.50, approx $4.70 USD

9- Roti Prata – South Indian Flatbread

Roti Prata is a signature Singapore food. It is also extremely popular in Malaysia where it goes by the name Roti Canai. Its history can be traced back to Indian subcontinent as well as Pakistan.

The meaning of Roti Prata is simple. Roti means roti or bread and Prata means flat. The Indian version is known as Paratha.

This local Singapore food is a simple and tasty dish.The pancake-like flatbread is served with a meat-based or a vegetable-based curry.  

You simply tear up slices of the roti and dip it into the delicious curry for a light meal or a filling snack.

Tasty and flavorful, this was one of our favorite local Singapore foods.

Roti Prata for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is one of the most affordable street food Singapore and a famous local food. This is definitively what to eat in Singapore 2018Roti prata with different dipping curries

Where to Eat Roti Prata in Singapore

Komala Vilas Restaurant

This popular Indian restaurant in Little India serves delicious and inexpensive South Indian and North Indian vegetarian food.

Address: 76-78 Serangoon Road

Hours: Daily, 7:00am to 11:00pm

Average Food Price in Singapore:  Prices range from SGD 6.00 to SGD 17.00, approx $4.30 USD to $12.30 USD

Singapore Zam Zam

Address: 679 North Bridge Road

Hours: Daily, 7:00 am to 11:00 pm

Average Food Price in Singapore:  Prices range from SGD 6.00 to SGD 8.00, approx $4.30 USD to $5.80 USD

10- Fried Hokkien Mee – Famous Singapore Stir Fried Noodles

Hokkien Mee, a dish found in Malaysia and Singapore originated from Hokkien, in the Southern province of China.

Hokkien Mee is prepared differently depending on where you have it. In Singapore, it is a stir-fried dish made of a combination of rice and egg noodles. It comes with prawns, squid, oysters, spring onions and fresh lime. The dish is served with a thick and fragrant sauce made from fresh shrimp and dried prawns. 

Served on the side is a sambal sauce with red chilis and a light soy sauce.

Hokkien Mee for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This famous local food Singapore is available at most hawker centers. It is what people eat in SingaporeFried Hokkien Mee, the Singaporean Way

Where to Eat Hokkien Mee in Singapore

Kim’s Hokkien Mee is a famous local joint a the corner a busy street. You will not miss the flashy neon sign with the name “Mr Kim.”  We got this recommendation from our Airbnb host, a local Singaporean. 

The open air seating is inviting and you will find several variations of Kim’s Hokkien Mee on the menu. Rich and creamy, this Hokkien Mee will satiate your hunger.

Enjoy it with a glass of fresh coconut juice.

Kim’s Hokkien Mee

Address: 62B Jln Eunos, Singapore

Hours: Everyday from 11:00 am to 1:00 am

Average Food in Price: Expect to pay between  SGD8.00 – SGD 12.00, approx $5.78USD – $8.66 USD

Kims Hokkien Mee Food in Singapore Authentic Food QuestAt the counter of KIm's Famous Fried Hokkien Mee

11- Char Kway Teow – Famous Local Singapore Food

Char Kway Teow is one of the most popular dishes found in both Singapore and Malaysia. This dish is part of the Singapore food culture.

This is a stir-fried dish made of flat rice noodles, with prawns, eggs, slices of Chinese sausages, bean sprouts, Chinese chives, shrimp-paste. It is stir-fried over very high heat with a light and dark chili soy sauce.

It is hard to resist to a delicious plate of Char Kway Teow. We named it the Pad Thai of Malaysia. If you love fried noodles, you will love this dish. It can be quite fatty but it is truly exceptional.

Char Kway Teow for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This is one of our favorite dishes and the most popular dish in Singapore. It is available at any of the best local restaurants. This food guide Singapore tells you where to eat in Singapore and what to eat in Singapore 2018Plate full of the addictive and delicious Char Kway Teow

Where to Have Char Kway Teow in Singapore

Chon Hiang is a famous Char Kway Teow food stall in the East Coast Lagoon Food Village. Ms. Mui Mui, a second generation hawker, is known for her cooking skills.

Her stall was recommended to us by several locals. We didn’t eat Char Kway Teow in Singapore because we ate it several times in Malaysia. Our focus was on the unique specialties and authentic food in Singapore.

However, if you make it to this relaxing hawker center by the beach, don’t forget to visit Ms. Mui Mui food stall.

Chon Hiang

Address: 1220 East Coast Park Service Road.

Hours: Open every day, 10:30 am – 2:00 am

Average Food Price in Singapore: Expect to pay about SGD3.00, approx $2.20 USD

READ our article best 6 hawker centers to eat in Singapore

12 – Pork Satay – Singapore’s Favorite Late Night Food

Pork Satay is grilled bamboo skewered pork served with spicy dipping sauce. The sauce is a combination of soy and peanut sauce and chili. Pork satay is served with cucumbers and onions and is a great snack to enjoy on a late night.

Pork Satay for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. This famous local food is one of the best hawker food in Singapore. This is perfect for what to eat in Singapore for dinner or an after dinner snack.Pork Satay, one of the best hawker food in Singapore

Where to Have Pork Satay in Singapore

One of the best places to have Pork Satay is at Satay by the Bay. Not only you will have the choice of six satay food stalls, you will also enjoy the Gardens by the Bay.

Wander through the different food stalls and sample the different skewers. Let your nose and taste buds guide you. Besides pork, you can also try beef, chicken, mutton and prawns satay.

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore.

Hours: Everyday from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm and until 2:00 am on weekends and Wednesdays.

Average Price in Singapore: About SGD0.70 / per skewer, approx $0.50USD.

Gardens By the Bay for Food in Singapore by Authentic Food Quest. You can find some of the best affordable restaurants in Singapore. This is the perfect place for what to eat in Singapore for dinnerThe spectacular Gardens by the Bay at night
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In Summary

Singapore is a paradise for food lovers. The country’s multi-ethnic culture has resulted in a variety of unique flavors and dishes. In one of the most exciting cities for food, be prepared to eat and leave room in your belly for more. There are not many places in the world, where you can eat the diversity of high-quality dishes for under $5.00 USD.

With the variety of dishes that we have presented, we trust you will have a true taste of the diversity found in local Singapore food. 

Have you had any of these dishes before? Which food in Singapore tempts you the most? Share your comments below.

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Rosemary

Rosemary, ex-marketing and advertising strategist, is a digital nomad and content creator at Authentic Food Quest. Since 2015, with her partner, Claire, they travel the world in search of the best local food experiences. Their mission is to help you enjoy the best local specialties on your travels or via recipes in your home kitchen. Favorite country for food: Peru. Favorite local dish: Bacalhau. Favorite way to keep fit: Running. Rosemary is the chief content writer and strategist on Authentic Food Quest. She is also co-author of Authentic Food Quest Argentina and Authentic Food Quest Peru, available on Amazon.

50 Comments

  1. Eric || The Bucket List Project
    July 15, 2017 at 11:12 am · Reply

    yum. it all looks so amazing. I would love the chili crab, the “Brains”, the Roti, the Biryani, and the Char Kway Teow looks especially great. It all looks so good and I bet the spices mixed in are delightful. I can imagine how the restaurants smell.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 10:12 am · Reply

      Indeed, Eric, the flavors in the restaurants and on the streets of Singapore are deliciously overwhelming. You’ve got to get to Singapore for their culinary delights 🙂

  2. Claudia
    July 15, 2017 at 2:28 pm · Reply

    So many different yummy foods! We visited Singapore last year and I was surprised to see the drastic changes in prices from one place to another, some as little as 0.50$ like you have shown and others as expensive as $40 for a pizza! Next time we visit I will keep your list in mind 🙂

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 10:32 am · Reply

      That’s interesting that you saw such a disparity in the food prices. At Hawker Centers, we found the pricing to be very consistent. Do indeed keep this list in mind for your next visit! Thanks Claudia.

  3. Danik
    July 16, 2017 at 3:42 am · Reply

    Wow! You guys checked out the food scene in Singapore very well. Not sure if I would have the Chilli Crab but the chicken and rice looks cool (I like things simple and sweet) 😀

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 10:38 am · Reply

      Thanks Danik, we really did out job exploring the local flavors. The goal is to invite travelers to try the local foods…like the chicken rice, you would love it. Appreciate you stopping by

  4. Mindi Hirsch
    July 16, 2017 at 6:01 am · Reply

    I absolutely loved the food in Singapore, especially at the hawker stands. It’s been over ten years since I was there though. When I head back, I’m going straight for Hainanese Chicken per your recommendation.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 11:44 am · Reply

      So much good food in Singapore. Definitively worth a return trip…and to Tian Tian for the famous Chicken Rice 🙂

  5. sherianne
    July 16, 2017 at 11:01 am · Reply

    Dying to visit Singapore, now I know what to eat!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 11:45 am · Reply

      Awesome!! Do keep this list handy!!

  6. Victoria
    July 17, 2017 at 8:50 pm · Reply

    Yay! I was excited to see the Nasi Lemak which appears to be vegetarian! It’s so nice to see things I can eat in new countries

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 11:45 am · Reply

      Yes, you will find lots of vegetarian options in Singapore. So many local dishes and so flavorful! Nasi Lemak is quite tasty 🙂

  7. Peter Korchnak
    July 17, 2017 at 10:00 pm · Reply

    There is literally no better way to explore Singapore than through food. I love the hawker centres, don’t even know which dish is my favorite, it’s all so delicious.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 11:46 am · Reply

      You are right, the best way to explore Singapore is through the food, and at the hawker centers. Understand the difficulty in choosing one fav dish…it’s all good 🙂

  8. Megan Jerrard
    July 18, 2017 at 1:34 am · Reply

    Ah, this is blasphemy I know, but we spent 48 hours in Singapore and since our hotel included an executive lounge with complimentary breakfast, dinner and snacks, we pretty much didn’t eat anywhere else :S!! I did however note that walking through the many ethnic districts of Singapore, the flavors which wafted through the streets were diverse and enticing. Will have to get back and be a little more adventurous with our food choices :D!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 12:03 pm · Reply

      You are right…can’t believe you missed tasting the local flavors on your trip to Singapore!! Guess, it’s time for a trip back 🙂

  9. Jen Joslin
    July 18, 2017 at 5:13 am · Reply

    There are so many of these dishes we missed out on last time we were in Singapore! I definitely want to try the chili crab, the Otak-Otak and Char Kway Teow sounds delicious too. I am definitely saving this to reference for the next time we go to Singapore. Thanks so much for sharing where to find all these dishes too!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 12:05 pm · Reply

      You are most welcome Jen!! And we agree, there is so much good food to explore in Singapore. We would also go back in a heartbeat to explore even more 🙂 This list nonetheless does give you a great place to start. Do let us know what you discover 🙂 Cheers.

  10. NamTamie (required)
    July 18, 2017 at 11:26 am · Reply

    I’m not very adventurous when it comes to trying exotic foods. My husband has traveled to Singapore quite a lot and he has described some interesting foods, for sure! The Stuffed Folded Omelet Pancake actually sounds really good to me, and it looks safe! (As in, it wouldn’t be too spicy, right?).

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 19, 2017 at 12:08 pm · Reply

      Food is one of life’s simple pleasures and it must be enjoyed. Unlike many other Southeast Asian countries we visited, the food in Singapore is not as spicy and the conditions are pretty clean. You’d be safe there as long as you order from an “A” rated vendor. Branch out and join your husband on one of his trips to Singapore and enjoy the food!! Cheers

  11. Jessica
    July 21, 2017 at 3:21 pm · Reply

    Great list! I will definitely be referring back to it when I visit Singapore in October. So many great foods to try, so little time!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 25, 2017 at 7:25 am · Reply

      Awesome. Glad you like the options offered and do keep this list handy. Feel free to reach out with any questions! Have a great and delicious trip in October.

  12. Linda
    November 4, 2018 at 7:55 am · Reply

    I love the Singapore greeting. We certainly ate well when we visited. We don’t like it hot. But our son was travelling with us and loved the Chili Crab. We had it at Jumbo Seafood. The pot seemed bottomless! We tried Nasi Lemak and Biryani in a few spots. Even the food court! Loved the night markets for food choices.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 5, 2018 at 5:52 pm · Reply

      So glad to hear you enjoyed the food in Singapore. The chili crab is fantastic and one of our favorites. So many food courts and so much good food. It’s no wonder Singapore is a top destination for food.

  13. Carol Colborn
    November 4, 2018 at 8:33 am · Reply

    Chili Crab, Hainanese Chicken, and Char Kway Teow are my top 3 favorites. As a matter of fact, I have learned now to make Hainanese so we have it once a month at home!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 5, 2018 at 5:55 pm · Reply

      Lucky you for learning how to make Hainanese chicken. The next time we are in Singapore, we’ll definitively take a cooking class. All the good food in Singapore.Yum. Those are some of our favorites as well. Cheers, Carol.

  14. Mei from Travel with Mei and Kerstin
    November 4, 2018 at 10:39 am · Reply

    I didn’t know that Chili crab is the national dish of Singapore, and would LOVE to try it someday! Char Kway Teow is one of my favorite dishes (I’m originally Teo chew, and Char Kway Teow is also a Teo chew dish…) Anyway, your post is making me hungry! VERY hungry! So I’m off to get some food now! 😀

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 5, 2018 at 5:56 pm · Reply

      So did you get Char Kway Teow? Lucky you for having access to this Teo chew dish regularly. We absolutely loved it!! Singapore chili crab is a delicious experience. Hope you get to savor it soon. Thanks for stopping by.

  15. sherianne
    November 5, 2018 at 10:31 pm · Reply

    I have not been to Singapore yet and I love crab so I am all about the crab chili and mantous buns! I’m also making a note to go to Tian Tian for Hainanese chicken rice. Not going to lie, I stop dead when I read brains… glad it isn’t really brains and think I would have to eat it so I could translate to meaning for my friends ?

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 6, 2018 at 12:10 pm · Reply

      The food is a great reason to visit Singapore. Such delicious and unique delights. Hope your travels take you to The Lion City soon. Thanks, Sherianne.

  16. Shruti Prabhu
    November 5, 2018 at 11:53 pm · Reply

    Can’t believe I missed out on Chili Crab the last time I was in Singapore. Another trip to Singapore is due soon! Gonna bookmark this list and try and grab atleast 8 of 12 items. I’ve had Biryani and Pork Satay before. I’m eyeing the crab, the pork rib soup and otak otak.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 6, 2018 at 12:11 pm · Reply

      Perfect timing if you have an upcoming trip to Singapore. Do eat your way through this list for a delectable and fulfilling culinary journey. Cheers.

  17. Hannah
    November 6, 2018 at 7:48 am · Reply

    This whole article had me salivating! I haven’t visited Singapore, but when I do I will indulge in all the food! I am a fan of Hainanese Chicken rice and Roti Prata, and I’d eat street food style all the time given the chance!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 6, 2018 at 12:12 pm · Reply

      Perfect, Hannah. This is the ideal guide for you. With all the local specialties on this list, you will feast like a local. Hope your travels take you to Singapore soon.

  18. Mansoureh
    November 6, 2018 at 12:51 pm · Reply

    WOW! I didn’t know much about Singapore cuisine before reading your post. I am not fan of crab, but my favourite dish would be Nasi Lemak, and I think I picked the right one since it is one the popular dishes in Singapore. I also would like to try The Stuffed Folded Omelet Pancake 🙂

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 6, 2018 at 5:11 pm · Reply

      So glad you learned a little more about Singapore food. There is so much to choose from and Nasi Lemak is a great place to start. Thanks for stopping by.

  19. Jennifer
    November 6, 2018 at 4:42 pm · Reply

    The chili crab, stir fry noodles and pork satay are all right up my alley. Sounds like there are a lot of delicious things to try in Singapore!

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 6, 2018 at 5:12 pm · Reply

      If you haven’t been to Singapore, highly recommend making a trip just for the food. Amazing delicacies that will not disappoint 🙂 Thanks, Jennifer.

  20. Jenn and Ed Coleman
    November 6, 2018 at 7:14 pm · Reply

    We ate in Little India during our short Singapore visit. It was really good and authentic. Singapore is such a beautiful city I imagine that they do everything top notch. Gardens By the Bay is beautiful so that bumps Satay at the Bay way up on our list. Might have to get an original Singapore Sling while we’re in the neighborhood.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      November 7, 2018 at 9:40 pm · Reply

      You are right, Little India in Singapore is full of history as well as amazing food. So much to see and do. Always worth going back to Singapore for more. Thanks for stopping by.

  21. Julia Wong
    May 6, 2019 at 7:35 am · Reply

    Visiting Singapore for the first time then must try this combination of brininess from Tagiasce olives, bitterness from Castelfranco radicchio and umami from veal tongue makes for a flavor party on the palate.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      May 6, 2019 at 3:36 pm · Reply

      Oh…yum! This sounds divine. Will certainly add it to our must try list on our next Singapore trip. Cheers.

  22. Julia Wong
    May 6, 2019 at 7:44 am · Reply

    Try out Marinate the chilies overnight with rice vinegar and salt for a piquant yet fiery sauce to perk up the flaky white fish in Singapore.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      May 6, 2019 at 3:36 pm · Reply

      Awesome. Thanks for the tip Julia. We’ll absolutely add this to our list the next time we are in Singapore. Thanks for sharing 🙂

  23. Joseph Gordon
    July 11, 2019 at 5:03 am · Reply

    As a tourist, this is a good check-list of authentic local cuisine in Singapore that you must eat when you visit.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      July 11, 2019 at 7:34 am · Reply

      Thank you so much Joseph. For an amazing local experience in Singapore, you cannot go wrong with this checklist. What’s your favorite local Singaporean dish?

  24. T.N Lim
    January 6, 2020 at 8:00 pm · Reply

    Wow, it has been 20 years away from SG for seeking happiness in west . Those all are my favorite food and still missing all of them. can’t wait to eat them again.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      January 7, 2020 at 8:51 am · Reply

      That’s great to hear. You’ll have an amazing time savoring the flavors once again. The food in SG was amazing and curious what your first dish will be. Cheers.

  25. Ant Lolch
    May 20, 2020 at 5:39 am · Reply

    Authentic food in Singapore you will adore is offered in the restaurant Paradise Dynasty at Woodlands Square. Amazing food and great service at this expensive but worth the money restaurant. The staff are helpful and nice, food is of course tasty! Therefore, it is worth visiting the restaurant for everyone who will be in Singapore.

    • Authentic Food Quest
      May 20, 2020 at 11:57 am · Reply

      Thank you Ant, for that tip. Looking forward to traveling to Singapore again and checking it out. Cheers and thanks for stopping by.

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Claire and Rosemary Hi! Welcome to Authentic Food Quest. We are Claire and Rosemary. Our goal is to help you explore local culture through food. As digital nomads, we travel to share authentic food recipes and food guides from around the world so you can savor them during your travels or in your home kitchen. Learn More

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