Welcome to Singapore, the dazzling Lion City – where culinary wonders await around every corner. This vibrant melting pot of cultures blends Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan traditions into one of the most dynamic food scenes in the world. From sizzling hawker stalls and heritage-rich dishes to Michelin-starred surprises and cutting-edge gastronomy, Singapore is every food lover's dream destination.
Ready to indulge? Here's your ultimate guide to Singapore's culinary treasures—complete with iconic eats, secret spots, and unforgettable experiences!
Hawker Centres: Singapore’s Flavour-Packed Soul
If Singapore had a heartbeat, it would be the lively hum of its hawker centres. These bustling open-air food courts are a paradise for gourmands, offering authentic dishes that capture the city’s soul – without breaking the bank.
Hainanese Chicken Rice: The National Icon
This seemingly simple dish is the crown jewel of Singaporean cuisine. Tender poached chicken is paired with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and served with tangy chili sauce. Pro tip? Head to Tian Tian Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre for a plate that will ruin you for chicken rice anywhere else.
Chili Crab
Singapore's most famous dish, is a must-try. This iconic meal features sweet, tender crab cooked in a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy tomato-based sauce. Pair it with mantou (fried buns) to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce. Jumbo Seafood is renowned for serving some of the best chili crab in the city.
Laksa: Comfort in a Bowl
This spicy noodle soup with a coconut-rich broth is a fusion of Chinese and Malay influences. Katong Laksa, where you can eat noodles with just a spoon, is legendary for its rich, slurp-worthy bowls.
Jumbos Seafood, image credit JCC Food Concepts
Chinatown: A Feast for the Senses
Chinatown is a sensory wonderland, where Singapore’s rich Chinese heritage blends seamlessly with modern culinary creativity. Here, tradition meets innovation, and every corner offers a tantalising culinary discovery. From comforting classics to groundbreaking bites, Chinatown is a treasure trove for food lovers.
Bak Kut Teh: Hearty Pork Rib Soup
A dish steeped in history, bak kut teh (literally "meat bone tea") features tender pork ribs simmered in a peppery, herbal broth. Want to elevate the experience? Pair it with a pot of traditional Chinese tea to cut through the richness.
Dim Sum Dreams.
Step into Yum Cha in Chinatown for a dim sum feast! Savour bamboo steamers filled with plump har gow, fragrant siew mai, silky cheong fun, and crispy spring rolls. Don’t miss the golden egg custard buns—sweet, molten perfection. Chinatown is the ultimate spot for a relaxed brunch or late-night dim sum cravings!
Hawker Chan: Michelin Starred Meals
Craving gourmet flavours on a budget? Head to Hawker Chan, home of the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred dish. Whether you're into traditional street food or new culinary adventures, Hawker Chan offers an indulgent yet affordable dining experience!
Hawker Chan, image credit Betal Box Asia
Little India: Spices and Vibrancy
Welcome to Little India, Singapore’s vibrant and aromatic district. The air is filled with the enticing scent of curry leaves, roasted spices, and freshly fried snacks. The streets sparkle with colourful flower garlands, traditional textiles, and glowing shopfronts. It’s a celebration for all the senses, offering much more than just a delicious feast.
Fish Head Curry: A Bold Flavour Explosion
Fish head curry is a bold, flavour-packed dish with tangy, spicy, and savory notes. A whole fish head simmers in a rich curry spiced with tamarind, chili, and herbs. Messy, flavourful, and perfect for mopping up with rice—dig in!
Roti Prata: Crispy, Flaky Perfection
Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, roti prata is a beloved Singaporean comfort food. Served with a side of fragrant curry, this pan-fried flatbread is a versatile favourite—eat it plain, stuffed with egg, cheese, or even chocolate for a sweet twist.
Thosai and Idli: South Indian Breakfast Staples
Mornings in Little India are best started with the fragrant aroma of freshly prepared thosai and idli. Thosai (also known as dosa) is a crispy, golden pancake made from fermented rice and lentils, often served with coconut chutney and tangy sambar (a spiced lentil soup).
Little India Prata, image credit Singapore Tourism Board
Kampong Glam: Malay and Middle Eastern Flavors
Nestled beneath the stunning Sultan Mosque, Kampong Glam blends heritage with hipster flair. This vibrant neighbourhood, rich in Malay, Arab, and Middle Eastern influences, offers a foodie’s paradise with sizzling satay, freshly brewed Arabic coffee, and a mix of timeless classics and modern twists.
Nasi Padang: A Symphony of Flavours
Nasi Padang isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. This hearty dish consists of steamed rice surrounded by an array of colourful side dishes, from creamy rendang to tangy sambal prawns. Think of it as a buffet on a plate, where you mix and match curries, stir-fries, and sambals to suit your cravings. Each bite is a flavour bomb, rich in spices and tradition.
Satay at Lau Pa Sat: A Street Food Spectacle
Satay at Lau Pa Sat is a sizzling street food adventure! Skewers of juicy, marinated meat—beef, chicken, and mutton—are grilled to perfection, served with rich peanut sauce, fresh cucumber, and ketupat. As glowing lanterns light up the night, the air is filled with the buzz of locals and tourists. Grab a cold beer and dive into this vibrant, flavourful feast!
Murtabak: Savoury Stuffed Pancakes
Crispy, golden, and packed with spiced minced meat, onions, and eggs, murtabak is a crowd favourite! Whether filled with chicken, mutton, or veggies, this hearty dish is a must-try in Kampong Glam. Watching chefs expertly flip the dough adds to the thrill—then dive in for a flavour-packed bite!
Lau Pa Set, image credit Singapore Duck Tours
Modern Singapore: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Singapore is a city that thrives on reinvention, blending its deep-rooted heritage with cutting-edge culinary creativity. Here, traditional flavours meet bold experiments, resulting in dishes and experiences that surprise and delight. Modern Singapore is a gastronomic playground where innovation takes centre stage.
Mod-Sin Cuisine: Reinventing the Classics
Welcome to the world of Modern Singaporean cuisine, affectionately called Mod-Sin, where chefs pay homage to traditional flavours while giving them a contemporary twist. At Labyrinth, a Michelin-starred gem, expect innovative dishes like deconstructed Hainanese chicken rice and bold chili crab ice cream that mixes sweet, spicy, and savoury flavours. These culinary wizards push the boundaries of imagination, showcasing the vibrancy of local ingredients with every bite.
Sky-High Dining: Feasting Among the Clouds
Few things can rival the thrill of dining with a panoramic view of Singapore’s dazzling skyline. Perched atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands, Spago by Wolfgang Puck offer unforgettable experiences that combine contemporary dishes with breathtaking vistas. Known for its fusion creations, like laksa spring rolls and kaya-infused panna cotta, Spago showcases boundless creativity. Paired with expertly crafted cocktails and breathtaking skyline views, it’s a feast for all the senses.
Craft Cocktails and Bar Bites
Singapore’s cocktail scene is world-class, blending innovative drinks with local flavours like pandan, lemongrass, and kaffir lime. The city offers a mix of rooftop bars with stunning views and hidden speakeasies, all serving expertly crafted cocktails. No visit is complete without tasting the iconic Singapore Sling, a gin-based cocktail that’s become a symbol of the city.
Chilli Crab Ice Cream, image credit Labyrinth & Michelin
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Singapore has a sweet side too, with desserts that blend tropical flavours and traditional recipes.
Chendol
A refreshing bowl of shaved ice topped with coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green pandan jelly noodles. It's a perfect way to cool off on hot days and can be found at hawker stalls across the city, each with its own variation of the sweet, refreshing dish.
Kueh Lapis
A multi-layered, buttery cake that is as visually striking as it is delicious. With each bite, you'll experience a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. For a trusted version, head to Bengawan Solo, a beloved bakery known for its high-quality offerings.
Durian: The King of Fruits
Love it or hate it, durian is a Singaporean icon. Known for their strong aroma, these spiky fruits are actually banned from being eaten on the MRT due to their pungent aroma. For those new to durian, try it in the form of ice cream or pastries for a gentler introduction to its unique, creamy taste. Whether you’re a fan or a sceptic, it’s a must-try experience when in Singapore.
Durian, image credit Singapore Tourism Board
Tips for Foodies Traveling in Singapore
1. Bring Your Appetite
Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, and you’ll want to be ready to indulge. While the portions may be smaller, this means you can try more dishes in one outing!
2. Use the MRT for Food Adventures
Getting around Singapore is a breeze, thanks to the efficient MRT system. Hop on the train and let it take you to different neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique food scene. With the MRT, you’re only moments away from your next food adventure.
3. Respect Local Customs
Dining in Singapore is not just about the food—it's also about the experience. One important tip: always return your tray at hawker centres. This simple act of respect helps maintain the cleanliness of the space and is considered good manners.
Marina Bay Sands & Supertree Grove, image credit Singapore Tourism Board
A Flavourful Exploration
Singapore’s food scene is a vibrant mix of cultural influences, where every dish reflects the country’s heritage and creativity. From the smoky stalls at Maxwell Food Centre serving local favourites like chicken rice and laksa, to the refined dining experiences at Marina Bay Sands, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re eating with chopsticks, a spoon, or your hands, the city offers a journey of bold flavours and unique textures. So, dive in and enjoy every bite—"Shiok!"
Ready for an adventure in Singapore? Click here to view our top packages, or get in touch with one of our travel experts!
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
