1. Overview of Katong’s Original Hawker Food Experience
2. Getting to Old Airport Road Food Centre
3. Notable Dishes at the Hawker Centre
4. Refreshing Drinks and Unique Flavors
Katong’s Original Hawker Food Experience
At first glance, Old Airport Road Food Centre may not seem impressive, looking like a series of stalls nestled in a parking structure. However, it is recognized as one of the most beloved public hawker centers on the island, consistently topping informal polls.
Since its opening in 1973, this hawker center has showcased some of the best family-run food stalls, known for their legendary dishes such as satay bee hoon, char kway teow, and rojak. Today, with 168 stalls, it offers a variety of affordable and delicious Singaporean and international food staples.
For just about SGD 5-7 (approximately $4 to $5.50), you can enjoy a satisfying meal at Old Airport Road Food Centre, which reflects the remarkable value found in Singapore’s hawker scene.
2. Getting to Old Airport Road Food Centre
The Old Airport Road Food Centre is situated in Katong, on the east side of Marina Bay. To reach it, take the Singapore MRT and disembark at Dakota MRT Station (Circle Line; CC8). The Food Centre is located just 140 yards west of the station exit. Check out Old Airport Road Food Centre on Google Maps.
Katong is also home to some of Singapore’s finest budget hotels, making it an ideal location for travelers looking for economical accommodations.
3. Notable Dishes at the Hawker Centre
When seeking authentic satay in Singapore, head to Chuan Kee Satay. This vendor specializes in grilled pork skewers served alongside onions and cucumber. Notably, it offers a unique peanut and pineapple gravy, which is unusual but certainly adds a delightful twist.
For an enticing experience, try both pork and chicken satay. The latter is often associated with Malaysian and Indonesian cuisine. According to K.F. Seetoh, the unique pork satay is reflective of a fusion of Chinese and Peranakan culinary influences.
4. Refreshing Drinks and Unique Flavors
Chi Shuang Shuang is famous for its goreng pisang (fried banana), but don’t miss their exotic goreng durian, which features fresh durian meat coated in crispy tempura breadcrumbs. Although opinions on durian vary significantly, this preparation might just win you over!
If you’re hesitant about durian, you should definitely try soursop juice instead. This refreshing drink offers a taste profile reminiscent of apples and lemons, perfect for cooling down after indulging in spicy dishes.
James Fua serves freshly made soursop juice at Lim Hin Assorted Cut Fruits & Fruit Juices, making it a must-try for visitors. Amidst the busy hawker scene, his juice has garnered a loyal following, appealing to both new and seasoned hawker enthusiasts alike.
