hawker – Indie Singapore Tours

Ordering Kopi like a Pro

Indie Singapore — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 13:15:20 +0000

The Panic is Real.

You know the feeling. You’re at a bustling Singapore hawker centre. The air smells of wok hei and frying garlic. You step up to the drink stall, ready for a caffeine fix. The “Uncle” in the white singlet looks at you, raises an eyebrow, and barks:

“Yes, what you want?”

Your mind goes blank. You wanted an iced coffee with milk but less sugar. You stammer, “Uh, one coffee… cold… a little sweet?”

He shouts to the back: “Kopi Siew Dai Peng!”

You walk away with your drink, relieved but slightly confused. Welcome to the beautiful, complex world of Singaporean Kopi.

At Indie Singapore, we believe that ordering a drink shouldn’t feel like a pop quiz you didn’t study for. It should be your first step into feeling like a true local. That’s why we’ve created a little magic trick to help you out.

Meet Your New Best Friend: The Kopi Generator

We built this interactive tool just for you. No more guessing, no more pointing. Just toggle your preferences, and we’ll tell you exactly what to say to the Uncle or Aunty.

Singapore Kopitiam Drink Builder & Secret Menu

Kopi Thiam Decoder

Master art of ordering coffee and tea in Singapore

Build Your Drink

1. Choose Base

2. Choose Milk

3. Strength

4. Sugar Level

5. Temperature

Drink Composition

YOU ORDER:

Kopi

Standard Coffee with Condensed Milk

Secret Menu & Special Orders

Click a secret item to see its composition.

Yuan Yang Coffee & Tea Mix

Kopi Gu You Coffee with Butter

Teh Halia Ginger Tea

Kopi Thiam Lingo Cheat Sheet

Kopi Coffee with condensed milk.

Teh Tea with condensed milk.

-O (Oh) Black, with sugar.

-C (See) Evaporated milk + sugar.

Kosong Zero sugar.

Siu Dai Less sweet.

Gah Dai More sweet.

Peng Iced.

Gao Thick/Strong.

Poh Thin/Diluted.

Tiloh Super thick.

Why is Kopi so Special?

Before you master the lingo, you have to respect the brew. Singaporean Kopi (the Malay word for Coffee) isn’t your typical espresso.

It’s robust. It’s tenacious. It’s got kick.

The beans—usually Robusta—are roasted with margarine (sometimes butter) and sugar until they are dark and glossy. They are ground and brewed in a long “sock” filter, resulting in a thick, aromatic, and highly caffeinated base. It is traditionally stirred with condensed milk, which settles at the bottom of the cup like liquid gold.

It is the fuel that powers our nation, from the boardroom executives to the taxi drivers.

In Singapore, we love our coffee (and tea), but it takes a literal flow chart to be able to order your perfect blend.

Kudos to the folks at The Sunday Times for this gorgeous infographic. Just replace the “Kopi” with “Teh” and you can order tea that is “just nice” for you

Join us for a cuppa on our Traditional Taste tour or our walk through Kampong Glam to find out more about the uniquely Singaporean coffeeshop culture!

The post Ordering Kopi like a Pro appeared first on Indie Singapore Tours.

Prata-cally Obsessed: A Local Foodie’s Guide to the Best Prata Places in Singapore (2025 update)

Indie Singapore — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 03:06:17 +0000

If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’ve gotta try roti prata the next time you’re in Singapore. This delicious flatbread is often served with mutton, fish, chicken or dhal curry and can be found at Indian Muslim stalls in coffee shops and hawker centers all over the city.

There are two basic types of roti prata you’ll find in Singapore: plain prata and prata with egg. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the more creative variations out there, like prata with onions, cheese, mushrooms, bananas, or even chocolate and ice cream. Trust me, it’s a game changer.

But what exactly is roti prata? Well, it’s actually a type of bread that has its origins in India. It’s unclear exactly where it came from, but some people believe it’s of Punjabi origin because wheat dishes are so popular in that region, while others think it was introduced by Muslim conquerors who were skilled at making various types of bread. Regardless of its origins, roti prata has become a staple in Indian cuisine in Singapore.

So how is roti prata made? It’s actually pretty simple. All you need are flour, ghee or margarine, salt, and water. First, you mix the ingredients together to form a dough, then you knead it until it’s soft and pliable. After that, you let the dough rest for a bit before dividing it into smaller portions. This is an important step because it helps the dough become light and fluffy.

Now comes the fun part: flipping the dough. This is where the real skill comes in. The prata uncle will grease his work table and hands with oil before taking a piece of the dough and stretching it out until it’s paper thin. It takes a lot of practice to get the technique down, but when it’s done right, it’s a thing of beauty (and also the source of many awesome tik tok videos). Once the dough is stretched out, it’s folded into a rectangle or circular shape and tossed onto the hot griddle. When dark brown “blisters” start to appear on the surface, you know the roti prata is cooked to perfection. The process of flipping and cooking the dough is considered an art form and requires skill and practice. A well-made roti prata SHOULD be crisp on the outside and soft on the inside (although there are variations).

Once served, the prata is traditionally eaten with the fingers, torn into bite-sized pieces and dipped in curry (or sugar, or *horrors* sugar AND curry) before being consumed.

Apparently we have many axe murderers amongst us

As self-proclaimed prata connoisseurs, we’ve scoured the city in search of the most delicious roti prata around. And we’ve finally narrowed it down to our top 5 picks. Get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously tasty Indian flatbread.

If you’re in the mood for some seriously crispy roti prata, you need to check out Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata near Joo Chiat. This small coffee shop used to be run by the dynamic duo of Mr and Mrs Mohgan, who have been perfecting the art of prata-making for over 30 years. As the name suggests, they have some of the freshest and most crispy prata you’ll find in Singapore. But be warned, this place is so popular that we have heard of queues of up to two hours to get your hands on a serving (which in Singapore logic means that it must be good). The coffee shop itself has a rustic vibe that only adds to the excitement of eating prata there. And with three types of curry to choose from – mutton, fish, and dhal – you can’t go wrong. So if you’re in the east and craving some seriously crispy, delicious prata, you know where to go.

Springleaf Prata Place is probably one of the most innovative prata place in Singapore! With chains all around the city, it should be easy to find an outlet near you. We gotta say, the prata here is top-notch, but it is the curry that keeps regulars like us coming back. The atmosphere is generally on point (although the air con can be a bit too cold). It’s clean, comfortable, and just overall welcoming. Perfect for chowing down with friends and family. Now let’s get to the real star of the show: the specialty pratas. Other than the classic pratas, the plaster blaster, the umami prata and murtaburger are definitely worth trying. The umami prata is loaded with a savory blend of minced meat, onion, and spices, and the murtaburger is a twist on the classic burger made with murtabak (stuffed prata) instead of a bun. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

If you are a fan of roadside, hole-in-the-wall type of establishments, you have got to check out *New Mahamoodiya Prata*. Whether you are craving for some late night munchies, or maybe an early morning breakfast to cure your hangover, this 24 hour prata joint has got you covered. They have got the crispiest, flakiest prata you’ll ever sink your teeth into, and everything is made fresh to order. The curry is acceptable, but the homemade sambal sauce (a rarity in Singapore) greatly elevates the taste to a whole new level.
This is our King-of-the-Hill for 2025!!

The results were closer than we anticipated

The pratas listed so far are all crispy pratas, but there is something to be said about about the more doughy, fluffy variety. We find it harder to fine tune this list as almost every neighbourhood have their favorite prata walas touting this variety.

Some of the fluffiest pratas in Singapore we know is at Sin Ming Roti Prata. While their famous Coin Prata steals the spotlight, the real hidden gem lies in their underrated fluffy pratas! Before we say anything, the Coin Prata is an absolute must-try – crispy, buttery, and chewy, it’s a taste sensation like no other. Paired with their tangy and spicy fish curry, it’s a match made in prata heaven. But don’t let the Coin Prata overshadow the fluffy regular pratas. Soft, pillowy, and oh-so-delicious, they are the unsung heroes of this prata shop. Whether it’s the classic Kosong (Plain) or the fragrant Garlic Prata, each bite is a delightful surprise.

R.K. Eating House is one of those very local places that has been satisfying prata cravings for decades. Their “Double Dough Prata” leaves you with a delightful buttery, sweet taste. The Prata Kosong allows you to fully appreciate the subtle flavors of the dough. While they have lots of other dishes on their menu, we think that we need to give a special shoutout to their tsunami prata. It is one of those dishes that overwhelm senses, with a loaded plate of roti prata drowning in a quartet of delectable sauces, tender mutton cubes, and perfectly round soft-boiled eggs.

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Vegetarian Food and Plant-Based Restaurants in Singapore – Our Pick (2026 Update +1 Hidden Gem)

Indie Singapore — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 10:30:11 +0000

We know firsthand the struggles of finding delicious and satisfying vegetarian/vegan meals in Asia that do not compromise on the authentic taste of our local cuisine.

After trying out countless vegetarian restaurants in the city, we have narrowed it down to our top five favorites. These five places not only offer delicious and diverse menus, but they also have a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. These stores will leave your taste buds and stomach fully satisfied.

First up on the list is Fortune Centre. Located in the heart of city, this strata mall is a hidden gem for vegetarians. With a variety of stalls offering everything from Indian curries to Chinese stir-fries, there is something for everyone here. Our personal favorite is Tian Yuan Healthy Vegetarian Food Paradise Restaurant, which serves up delicious dishes like their signature Thunder Tea Rice, and also “chicken” rice and “beef” noodles that are so realistic, you’ll swear they’re the real deal. Special mention goes to Teng Bespoke that serves vegetarian sashimi (??!). It is no surprise that this strata mall is along our “Street of Harmony” along Waterloo Street. Find out more about the street with Churches, Temples, Mosques and Synagogues and how all this ties together on our Balik Kampong Tour!

Next on the list is Green Dot. This chain of vegetarian fast food restaurants can be found all over Singapore, making it a convenient option for those on the go. Their menu features a variety of local dishes, alongside rice bowls, burgers, sandwiches, and wraps all made with plant-based protein sources. Our favourite is the local Rendang made with lionmane mushrooms, which is a delicious and satisfying gravy that goes beautifully with their selection of healthy red/brown rice.

For those looking for a more traditional dining experience, Komala Vilas is a must-try. This Indian restaurant has been serving delicious vegetarian dishes for over 70 years, and it’s easy to see why. The menu features a range of classic dishes, from masalas and biryani to dosas and idlis, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients.The food here is always fresh and flavorful, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Guides on our Little India tour swears by this restaurant, and we are in pretty good company!

There are some really good finer dining options as well. Joie by Dozo, perched atop Orchard Central, transcends vegetarian dining stereotypes, offering a captivating fusion of Japanese-European flavors and innovative culinary artistry. The delightful menu features dishes that transform vegetables, fruits, and herbs into a symphony of colors and textures. Prices start from SGD$38++ for the lunch menu and goes up to SGD$88++ for dinner. Signature side dishes like Gratinated Champignon with Mozzarella and Baby Root Vegetables Garden showcase the chef’s culinary technical skills. Cold dishes, such as Transparency of Pear and Vegetable Sashimi on Ice with Oyster Leaf Shooter Glass, impress with their artful presentations. This is definitely one of those special occassion places. The dining journey unfolds against the backdrop of sweeping views of Orchard Road. We think that this is a haven for fine dining enthusiasts, offering a unique, meatless culinary adventure in a sophisticated setting.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Kind Kones is the place to go. This ice cream shop is completely vegan, offering a range of creamy and delicious flavors made with coconut milk and other plant-based ingredients. They offer a range of unique flavors like “matcha green tea” and “mango lassi”. The best part? They also have a variety of toppings and waffles to choose from, so you can create your own custom sundae. Trust us, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).

Last but certainly not least is VeganBurg, a vegan gourmet burger restaurant that has taken Singapore by storm. With a range of plant-based burgers and sides, VeganBurg is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. Our personal favorites include Char-Grilled Satay burger, which is made with a GMO-free pan-grilled plant-protein patty and topped with crunchy lettuce, onion, cucumber and fresh pineapple. The very local Chilli Krab bears special mention as well – a tender and crispy plant-protein “crab” meat patty, farm-fresh greens, and authentic homemade chili crab sauce made from handcrafted rempah

==Hidden gem update==

Guests on our recent Signature Chinatown tour might hear our guides gushing about the vegetarian food court at the basement of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Now, we know what you’re thinking – “A temple? That’s not exactly a foodie destination.” But trust us, it’s home to one of the tastiest and most underrated vegetarian places in of Singapore.

First things first, let’s talk about the food. This place is a vegetarian paradise, and has a daily change in menu from local offerings to “western” pasta to satisfy even the most carnivorous of appetites. And the best part? You get to load up on as many free condiments as you want. That’s right, free. Think pickled vegetables, crispy fried onions, and spicy chili sauce. It’s like a vegetarian version of a sundae bar.

An added bonus is definitely the ambiance at Lian Xin 莲芯膳坊, which we like to call “calming chic”. It’s all clean lines and natural wood accents, with plenty of greenery to remind you that you’re in a temple. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Chinatown and enjoy a peaceful meal. Plus, the prices are more than reasonable, so you won’t be stressing about your wallet while you’re there.

Overall, these are our top picks in Singapore if you are looking for delicious and ethical plant-based meals. Whether you’re in the mood for fast food or a sit-down dinner, there’s something for everyone at these amazing establishments.

Be Kind, and Happy Eating!

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Chick-Fil-A Who? Our Top Picks of Chicken Rice to Try in Singapore (2023 Update)

Indie Singapore — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 10:30:00 +0000

We have an obsession with Chicken Rice here in Singapore. Some of us consider it our “National Dish” of sorts. So we are here to bring you a delicious and informative blog post about one of our nation’s most beloved dishes

First of all, let’s address the elephant in the room. No, Hainanese chicken rice did not originate in Hainan, China. We know, we know, it’s confusing. But bear with us, there’s a reason for the name.

You see, Hainanese chicken rice actually has its roots in Singapore, where it was created by Chinese immigrants from the Hainan province. These immigrants brought with them their own unique cooking techniques and flavors, which eventually merged with the Southeast Asian cooking techniques and ingredients to create this delicious dish.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – how did chicken rice become such a big deal in Singapore? Well, let me tell you a little secret: it’s all about the rice. You see, the Hainanese were known for their culinary skills, and they quickly learned that cooking rice with chicken fat, ginger and pandan leaves added a whole new level of flavor to the dish. This makes the rice good enough to eat on its own (don’t believe us? Chef Anthony Bourdain thought so too)

But it’s not just the rice that makes Hainanese chicken rice so special. The chicken itself is cooked to perfection, with a soft and succulent texture that is firm and juicy. And let’s not forget the chili sauce and ginger sauce that are essential to rounding out the flavors.

And the sauces! Hainanese chicken rice comes with a side of chili sauce, which adds a spicy kick to the dish. But if you’re not a fan of heat, don’t worry, there’s also a side of sweet soy sauce to balance out the flavors.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “This all sounds great, but where can I find some Hainanese chicken rice?” Lucky for you, this dish can be found at almost any hawker center in Singapore. Just follow the delicious smells and you’ll be sure to find some Hainanese chicken rice.

As self-proclaimed chicken rice connoisseurs, we’ve tried our fair share of chicken rice stores in Singapore. And we have to say, it’s no easy feat finding the best ones – there are just so many to choose from!

But after much experimentation and taste-testing, I’ve narrowed it down to my top five favorite chicken rice stores in Singapore. If you’re a fan of this classic Singaporean dish, you definitely don’t want to miss out on these gems.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice: Located in the iconic Maxwell Food Centre, Tian Tian has gained a cult following for its juicy, succulent chicken and perfectly cooked rice. The sauces here are also spot on – the chili sauce is just the right level of spicy, while the ginger and dark soy sauces add depth and flavor to the dish. Their cookoff battle with Chef Gordon Ramsay is still etched in the minds of Singaporeans.
Loy Kee Chicken Rice: If you’re looking for a heartier, more filling chicken rice experience, Loy Kee is the place to go. In addition to the usual chicken and rice, Loy Kee also serves up sides like braised peanuts, braised eggs, and even roast pork. The result is a satisfying and well-rounded meal that will leave you feeling full and happy.
Boon Tong Kee: This chain of chicken rice stores has gained a reputation for its consistent quality and tasty chicken. The chicken here is always cooked to perfection, with a flavorful skin and tender meat. The rice is also worth mentioning – it’s fragrant and flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Boon Tong Kee Chicken Rice (Balestier): While all of the Boon Tong Kee outlets are great, the one in Balestier stands out for its more traditional, old-school vibe. The store has been around for decades, and the chicken rice here is cooked the same way it has been for years – with love and care.
Katong Mei Wei Chicken Rice – Definitely one of the local favourites that is far off the tourist radar. Locals might know it as the Katong Shopping Centre Basement Chicken Rice. The origin of this store started way back in 1988 at the People’s Park Complex. It got its fame when it settled down at the basement of Katong shopping centre, and serving up delicious chicken rice along with its signature achar (local pickled vegetable), and free flow soup of the day that is overflowing with ingredients and flavor. If you don’t mind heading a bit off the well beaten track, this is the chicken rice store to go to for a bit of local flavor

So, the next time you’re in Singapore and feeling peckish, be sure to give Hainanese chicken rice a try. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making it at home.

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5 Must-Try Dishes in Singapore

Indie Singapore — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:00:24 +0000

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!

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