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Unearthing Singapore’s Hidden Culinary Gems

7 min read
Join us on an unforgettable journey through Singapore’s lesser-known food spots, where we’ll savour local delicacies, uncover hidden gems, and experience the vibrant culinary culture that makes this city a foodie paradise.

Exploring Singapore’s food scene is like embarking on a treasure hunt. From bustling hawker centres to quaint cafes tucked away in alleys, the city offers a plethora of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, there’s always something new to taste. Here’s an itinerary for a day filled with delicious surprises, showcasing the best hidden spots and secret food locations in this vibrant city.

Sunrise and Street Food: Start Your Day with Local Flavours

Image Credit: https://www.jianboshuikueh.com

Begin your day at Tiong Bahru Market, one of Singapore’s oldest hawker centres. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy breakfast like a local, then take some time to explore the wet market on the ground floor, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, including seasonal fruits, vegetables, meat, and even artisanal cheeses. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful flower stalls for a lovely bouquet to brighten your day!

Try the famous Chwee Kueh (steamed rice cakes topped with preserved radish) from Jian Bo Shui Kueh, a household name in Singapore since 1958. Known for its smooth and chewy rice cakes topped with savoury chai poh (preserved radish) and house-made sambal, this stall has consistently earned accolades, including the Michelin Bib Gourmand for three years running. Be prepared for a short wait, as locals flock here to enjoy this beloved breakfast dish!

Picture for illustration only and may not depict the actual dish from the hawker

Another must-try is the traditional Nasi Lemak (coconut rice served with fried anchovies, peanuts, and sambal) from Super Shiok Nasi Lemak. This stall is well-loved for its fluffy basmati rice cooked in coconut milk, paired with crispy fried chicken, fried anchovies, peanuts, and a delightful sambal that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. Be prepared for a queue, as this spot is popular among locals and visitors! The market buzzes with energy as vendors prepare their dishes, offering a perfect immersion into Singapore’s rich food culture.

After you are done with your morning delights, take some time to explore the wet market on the ground floor, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, including seasonal fruits, vegetables, meat, and even artisanal cheeses. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful flower stalls for a lovely bouquet to brighten your day!

For early risers, after breakfast, take a stroll around the Tiong Bahru neighbourhood, known for its charming Art Deco architecture and vibrant murals. Be sure to visit Cat Socrates, an independent lifestyle shop selling eclectic products including books, home deco, kitchenware, plants, bags, fashion accessories, and vintage memorabilia, with a pet cat in attendance.

Nature’s Wake-Up Call: Farm-Fresh Brunch in Tranquil Setting

For those who prefer a leisurely brunch, head to Bistro by Gardenasia. Located at 240 Neo Tiew Cres, Bistro by Gardenasia offers a cosy atmosphere with a menu featuring local farm-to-table dishes such as the Traditional Fish & Chips and Assam Fish Chowder, using ingredients from local farms including the fish. It’s a great spot to enjoy brunch while surrounded by greenery. The café is known for its fresh ingredients and has options for both indoor and outdoor seating.

Image Credit: https://www.gardenasia.com/

The Kranji Countryside is often overlooked by tourists but offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature and explore a variety of activities. Visit Hay Dairies, Singapore’s only goat farm, where you can watch the goat milking process and taste delicious goat milk. If you’re interested in local agriculture, stop by Bollywood Farms for a farm-to-table dining experience featuring fresh produce from their gardens. For nature lovers, the Kranji Marshes offer stunning views and opportunities for bird-watching, with over 170 species of birds to spot.

After brunch, head to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve for a quick nature walk. This expansive nature park is known for its rich biodiversity, where you can explore scenic trails and spot various wildlife, including migratory birds and monitor lizards. Stroll along the Mangrove Boardwalk to get up close to the unique mangrove ecosystem, or climb the Aerie Tower for breathtaking views of the reserve. Whether you’re looking to relax in nature or enjoy some bird-watching, Sungei Buloh is the perfect way to digest your meal!

Taste Trails: Midday Exploration of Singapore’s Iconic Hawker CentresPost-brunch, it’s time to dive into Singapore’s renowned hawker culture at the Maxwell Food Centre. This bustling food court is home to some of the best local dishes, patronised by office professionals during the weekdays and everyone else during the weekends! Don’t miss out on the famous Hainanese Chicken Rice from Tian Tian Chicken Rice, which has received accolades from celebrity chefs.

Picture for illustration only and may not depict the actual dish from the hawker

While you’re there, sample other local favourites like Char Kway Teow (stir-fried flat rice noodles) and Laksa (spicy noodle soup). Grab a refreshing drink of sugarcane juice to cool down from the afternoon heat.

Chinatown Secrets: Hidden Culinary and Cultural Gems

After lunch, wander through Chinatown’s hidden alleys for all sorts of Chinese traditional trinkets. After a mini shopping spree, stop by Chinatown Complex Food Centre, where you can find lesser-known but less crowded stalls serving authentic dishes like Bak Chor Mee (minced pork noodles) or try some delightful desserts at Chinatown Sweet Treats.

Flavours After Dusk: Savoring Peranakan Cuisine and Street Eats

As evening approaches, head to Joo Chiat Road, known for its Peranakan heritage and vibrant food scene. Start your dinner with some traditional Nyonya cuisine at Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen, a beloved spot among locals for its authentic dishes. Here, you can savour specialities like Otak-Otak (grilled fish cake) and Ayam Buah Keluak (chicken stewed with black nuts), both prepared using traditional recipes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Peranakan culture.

Image Credit: https://oldbibik.com

Next, explore the street food stalls lining Joo Chiat Road. Try some freshly made Kueh Lapis, a multi-layered cake that is both colourful and delicious. With its vibrant atmosphere and array of food options, Joo Chiat is the perfect place to indulge in the flavours of Singapore!

Midnight Feasts: Exploring Geylang’s Supper Scene

To cap off your day as a food explorer, venture into Geylang for some late-night eats. This area is famous for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food offerings. Start by sampling the iconic Claypot Rice at Claypot Rice (Ah Chuan), where the dish is cooked over charcoal for that smoky flavour. Next indulge in some spicy Sambal Stingray, at Heng Long Teochew Satay, grilled to perfection and served on banana leaves. Both dishes are local favourites and showcase Singapore’s culinary heritage.

Picture for illustration only and may not depict the actual dish from the hawker

For dessert, do not miss out on trying some traditional Chendol from Cendol Geylang Serai, located just a short walk away in Geylang Serai Market. Their chendol features freshly made green jelly noodles topped with rich coconut milk and gula melaka (palm sugar syrup), providing a refreshing end to your meal. With its lively atmosphere and array of flavours, Geylang is the perfect place to conclude your culinary adventure!

Picture for illustration only and may not depict the actual dish from the hawker

Savouring Singapore

Your day as a food explorer in Singapore showcases not only the incredible variety of flavours but also the rich cultural tapestry that each dish represents. From breakfast at Tiong Bahru Market to late-night supper in Geylang, every meal tells a story about the people and traditions that shape this culinary haven.

So grab your fork and get ready for an adventure—Singapore’s hidden food gems are waiting for you! Whether you’re indulging in Michelin-starred street food or savouring local favourites in the cosy corners of hawker centres, every bite is an experience worth savouring.