There’s a Singapore that people think they know, a hyper-globalized city of modern skyscrapers. However, once you know where to look, it unveils another world, one where traditional beliefs and age-old customs thrive. Eating is a national obsession; you know the city means serious business when the first inscription on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list is the hawker or street food culture.
My background revolves around food, having worked in restaurants and hosted supper clubs. I took my knowledge of local eateries to create a food tour company focusing on the backstreets and local flavors of the place I was born and raised. I have made it my mission to help people discover the best eats in the city. Consider this guide your key to understanding the less visible side of Singapore, allowing you to immerse yourself in the life of its local cuisine. Let’s dive in!
Breakfast
If I could choose just one breakfast to have for the rest of my life, it would undoubtedly be the quintessential Singapore breakfast: coconut and egg jam (kaya) toast. An old-school breakfast spot, YY Kafei Dian, continues to make its kaya from scratch. The result is a subtly smoky toast slathered with homemade kaya and topped with slices of buttery goodness. If you’re looking for all things sourdough, Bakers Bench Bakery is a great spot for work meetings or simply enjoying a productive day in a welcoming environment, where the sticky buns are a personal favorite!
Coffee and Snacks
Singapore boasts a vibrant coffee culture, mixing traditional coffee (kopi) with modern specialty coffee shops. Starting with kopi, this dark and full-bodied brew uses robusta beans, which thrive in the region’s warmer temperatures and lower altitudes. There are many ways to enjoy kopi, leading to infographics that help demystify the art of ordering. For example:
- Kopi-O kosong: Straight black
- Kopi-C: With condensed milk
- Kopi-Peng: Iced coffee (perfect for humid afternoons)
Additionally, I’m lucky to live near Nylon, a charming café located in one of the oldest social housing estates in the city. The coffees are exquisite, and the staff is incredibly welcoming, making it a repeat destination worth visiting.
While in the area, don’t miss Ji Xiang Ang Ku Kueh, which offers what I affectionately consider Singapore-style mochi that is made fresh daily. If this is your first time exploring this snack, I suggest trying the traditional flavors like peanut or sweet bean. For freshly baked granola, make a stop at Dearborn.
Lunch
It’s time to experience one of the most defining aspects of local life – dining at a hawker center. A visit to Singapore would be incomplete without enjoying hawker food. My go-to spot is Beach Road Market, known for its myriad delicious options. However, I particularly recommend the chicken curry noodles from Da Po Hainanese, which truly exemplifies how this dish should be prepared: the light, savory gravy is perfect for soaking up with tofu puffs and other delicacies.
For those mid-afternoon, humid days, consider the heritage dishes at Rempapa, an air-conditioned establishment. The buah keluak fried rice is a must-try. This unique seed, native to Indonesia and Malaysia, is delectable when prepared correctly and represents a real culinary adventure. Never forget to leave room for dessert; indulging in kuehs (local sweets) is a delightful way to end your meal.
Dinner
Singapore offers a plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants. However, if you prefer a more casual dining experience, I suggest 808 Eating House. While reservations are recommended, walk-ins are sometimes possible. With a tagline of “more fun dining than fine dining,” you’re guaranteed a memorable experience.
Situated in the charming Joo Chiat neighborhood, the chef highlights local and regional ingredients and provides a new twist on classic dishes. For instance, the barramundi served on a lightly spiced garam masala pumpkin puree with curry leaf oil is a must-try.
If you’re craving Indian cuisine, look no further than Revolver, which offers innovative modern Indian dishes influenced by global flavors, cooked expertly over an open flame. With impeccable service and an extensive drink menu, it ensures a vibrant evening out.
Bar
One of the standout locations in Singapore is Fura. The drink selection is exceptional, and the food menu is curated to complement the beverages. Furthermore, the use of sustainable ingredients is commendable. For example, their jellyfish martini features this overpopulated species from the oceans—an adventurous cocktail choice worth trying!
Close by, Platform is a charming cocktail bar with a minimalist aesthetic. The drinks here not only taste great but are also surprisingly nutritious. For something light and refreshing, consider the Rooibos72, a delightful mix of orange blossom water, horseradish, sparkling sake, and blue pea flower. It feels like you’re unwinding at a friend’s home, making it a wonderful spot to escape and relax, even if just for an hour or two.
