If you’re coming to Singapore for a visit, you’re probably wondering what the best hawker food is to eat while you’re here. It can be a bit overwhelming because there are just so many options! There is a reason why our hawker culture is considered one of UNESCO’s intangible world heritage, so your efforts will be well rewarded.
Well, fear not, because we’ve done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of the top hawker dishes you absolutely have to try.
Trust us! Your taste buds will thank you.
Day 1: Hainanese Chicken Rice
You can’t visit Singapore without trying our national dish, chicken rice. And let me tell you, we take our chicken rice seriously. It’s made up of steamed or roasted chicken served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, and it’s usually accompanied by a spicy chili sauce. You can find chicken rice at almost every hawker center in Singapore, but one of our personal favorites is the one at Tian Tian in Maxwell Food Centre. Trust me, you’ll be dreaming about this chicken rice long after you leave Singapore. There is a reason why this is a dish that had enthralled the likes of Chef Anthony Bourdain and Gordan Ramsay.
Day 2: Laksa
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that’s a combination of Chinese and Malay flavors. It’s made with a coconut milk-based broth and is usually served with rice noodles, shrimp, and tofu. There are different variations of laksa, but my go-to is the famous Katong Laksa, which originated in the Katong district of Singapore. You can find it at Janggut Laksa at Roxy Square. Just be prepared for a spicy kick, because this laksa means business.
Day 3: Char Kway Teow
Char kway teow is a stir-fried rice noodle dish that’s usually made with soy sauce, chili, egg, shrimp, and Chinese sausage. It’s a little bit sweet, a little bit savory, and a whole lot delicious. You can find char kway teow at almost any hawker center in Singapore, but my favorite spot is Hill Street Char Kway Teow at Hong Lim Market and Food Centre. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one plate.
Day 4: Satay
Satay is basically the kebabs of Singapore, and it’s a must-try while you’re here. It’s made with marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) that’s grilled on skewers and served with a peanut sauce. You can find satay at most hawker centers, but my top pick is the satay at East Coast Lagoon Food Village. Just be prepared to wait in line, because it’s always packed with people who know where to find the best satay in town.
Day 5: Roti Prata
Roti prata is a type of Indian flatbread that’s usually served with a side of curry. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and it’s the perfect comfort food for any time of day. You can find roti prata at most hawker centers in Singapore, but my favorite spot is the prata at Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata in at Dunman Road. Just be prepared to wait in line, because this place is always packed with people who know where to find the best roti prata in town.
So there you have it, the FIVE hawker dishes you have to try in Singapore.
If you feel overwhelmed, do consider joining us for our Food Adventures where our passionate guides will tell you a lot more about the delicious offerings in Singapore. Our Ugly Food Tours will tell you a lot more about the stories behind the food.
Alternatively, join us for our Free Walking Tours where our guides will show you their favourite food in the various districts!