Jalan Besar is a fascinating district in the heart of Singapore. Its history is filled with triumph and tragedy. It is also a culinary melting pot that sees a unique blend of cultures and spices over time to create truly unique dishes! And Jalan Besar at night brings all of this to the forefront!
From traditional Singaporean street food to modern interpretations of classic hawker dishes, we’ll be sampling a variety of delicious dishes and drinks as we explore the neighborhood.
As you chow down on some of the ugliest eats the neighborhood has to offer, we’ll take you on a wild ride through the fascinating history of this bustling district. From the notorious gangs that once ruled the streets, to the cabarets and clubs that kept the party going all night long, Jalan Besar has a past (and present) as colorful as the food on your plate.
But it’s not all gangsters and glamour – this neighborhood has also been home to some of Singapore’s biggest sporting events and historic landmarks. So come hungry, because we’re about to feast on some delicious history (and maybe a few spicy samosas).
Read more about this tour in this brilliantly written article by our friends from Conde Naste Traveller
This ‘ugly food tour’ of Singapore spotlights the gritty side of one of Asia’s shiniest cities | Condé Nast Traveller Middle East
See you on the tour!
What is the “Ugly Food” Tour?
In a city obsessed with Instagram-perfect cafes, we go the other way. This Jalan Besar food tour celebrates “Ugly Food”—traditional dishes that prioritize flavor over presentation. Think sloppy curry rice, dark herbal soups, and braised meats that look messy but taste like history. This is not a food waste tour; this is a soul food tour.
Are you bored of the same old fancy restaurants and food tours? Tired of having travelled many countries and not finding the “real” food around? Our Ugly Food Tour Series brings you an unapologetic and less-traveled perspective of Singapore’s diverse culinary scene. We focus on the micro stories that we find in our everyday lives, and how these make for more interesting experiences than the Michelin stars and the typical touristy highlights.
