Singapore is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene and one of the best ways to experience its diverse flavours is through hawker centres. These bustling food havens offer an array of affordable and delicious local dishes that cater to every palate. In this guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through some of Singapore’s must-try food stalls in its famous hawker centres.
- Maxwell Food Centre
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Maxwell Food Centre is a food lover’s paradise. Here are two stalls you shouldn’t miss:
a) Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
This stall is synonymous with Singapore’s national dish, Hainanese Chicken Rice. The tender poached chicken, fragrant rice and flavourful condiments make for a mouthwatering combination. Be sure to try the succulent chicken, topped with their special soy sauce and accompanied by chili sauce and ginger.
b) Ah Tai Hainanese Curry Rice
Ah Tai serves up another local favourite, Hainanese Curry Rice. This comforting dish features a variety of curries, braised meats and crispy pork chops. The interplay of flavours and textures is simply delightful, leaving you craving for more.
- Old Airport Road Food Centre
One of the oldest and most iconic hawker centres in Singapore, Old Airport Road Food Centre is home to numerous legendary food stalls. Here are two must-visit stalls:
a) Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee
Indulge in the flavours of a traditional Hokkien-style fried noodles dish at Nam Sing. Stir-fried with a mix of yellow noodles and thick vermicelli, this dish is accompanied by succulent prawns, squid and pork belly. The smoky wok hei flavor combined with the rich black sauce makes it a standout.
b) Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow
Lao Fu Zi is known for their delectable Fried Kway Teow, a stir-fried flat rice noodle dish. Cooked with generous portions of fresh seafood, Chinese sausage and bean sprouts, this dish bursts with umami flavours. Watch the skilled chefs expertly toss the noodles over a fiery hot wok, infusing it with a smoky essence.
- Tiong Bahru Market
Nestled in the hip Tiong Bahru neighbourhood, Tiong Bahru Market is a culinary gem. Don’t miss these two food stalls:
a) Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice
This stall offers a modern twist on the classic Hainanese Chicken Rice. Enjoy boneless chicken served atop fragrant rice cooked with chicken stock, accompanied by flavourful sauces and a side of chicken broth. The tenderness of the chicken and the aromatic rice make it a delightful choice.
b) Jian Bo Shui Kueh
For a taste of traditional Teochew cuisine, Jian Bo Shui Kueh is a must-visit. This stall specialises in handcrafted steamed rice cakes filled with savory turnip and topped with dried shrimp, spring onions and fried shallots. The soft texture of the rice cake and the burst of flavours from the toppings create a delightful combination.
Conclusion
Singapore’s hawker centres are a treasure trove of culinary delights and exploring them is an essential part of any visit to the Lion City. From mouthwatering chicken rice to flavourful fried noodles and traditional rice cakes, these food stalls offer a tantalising array of local flavours. So, grab a seat, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and embark on a gastronomic adventure through Singapore’s hawker centres – a true food lover’s paradise.