must visit hawker centre in singapore

A first timer's guide to Singapore's hawker centers

It's 90 degrees outside with 75% humidity on this February day. There's no air conditioning, and a group of retired, 80-year-old men in flip flops sit around a table in Chinatown's People Park to munch on some decadent chicken rice and fish head soup while sharing stories in Hainanese.

On the other side of town in Little India, Bollywood beats and the endless, mouthwatering smells of spices like fenugreek accompany the crispy masala dosas coming off the griddles.

This was my welcome to Singapore's hawker centers.

With ties to the city-state's colonial past, working-class roots, multicultural heritage and ever-changing sociodemographics, Singapore's hawker centers are more than just open-air markets filled with smoking hot woks and sizzling tandoors. They are sprawling food courts that serve as a social epicenter for Singaporeans.

In fact, hawker culture is so entwined with daily life in Singapore that it was added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2020.

So, what do you need to know about these cultural institutions before you experience them for yourself? Here's an overview of Singapore's famous food stalls, including where you'll find them and which dishes you should try.

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The history of Singapore's street food

Hawker centers first appeared in Singapore in 1819 when it became a British colony.

Recognizing the area's strategic significance for trade, which only grew once the Suez Canal opened in 1869, Britain began utilizing Singapore as a key stop for loading natural resources like rubber and tin onto ships bound for Europe.

Needing strong (but cheap) laborers who could move heavy supplies on and off of ships, Britain adopted an open-door immigration policy. This resulted in an influx of Chinese immigrants eager to escape poor living conditions in southern China sparked by a series of famines. To pay for their journeys to Singapore, many became indentured servants.

These Chinese immigrants became the backbone of the future city-state's labor pool, along with the convicts brought to Singapore from India (another British colony) and a sizable group of Malays and Indonesians who came to Singapore seeking a better way of life.

As Singapore's migrant community grew, so, too, did its need for sustenance. Craving the dishes enjoyed in their home countries, many laborers set up hawker food carts serving affordable versions of their favorite fare.

Early iterations of hawker food stalls lacked hygiene protocols and were therefore avoided by wealthy residents. However, once British rule in Singapore ended in 1963 and the former colony gained independence from Malaysia in 1965, the new city-state's government sought to overhaul its street cart scene by creating the clean, meticulously monitored hawker centers prevalent today.

As a result, hawker centers now welcome a range of patrons, from working-class citizens to vacationing foodies. While the exact items featured on hawker center menus vary by location, you can expect to find all kinds of noodle dishes, refreshing drinks, soups, fried chow and more -- all for a few bucks each.

I started my foodie extravaganza southwest of downtown in Singapore's Chinatown area. Although the People's Park Complex (one of the neighborhood's main buildings) was closed briefly from March to June 2020 due to the pandemic, it was open and welcoming shoppers, diners and more during my visit.

To enter the building's hawker center, the members of my Singapore Foodsters food tour were required to tap in using the TraceTogether app, which is used throughout Singapore for COVID-19 contact tracing. A guard at the entrance to the food court ensured everyone tapped in and received a green light.

Although most of the people at this hawker center were senior citizens, I felt strangely at peace and comfortable inside. Unlike other hawker centers I visited, I could simply soak up the setting and go where I pleased without being approached by vendors pushing their food.

Before Jerry, the tour guide, ordered a few items for us to try, I had a chance to interact with Mr. Lim, an 85-year-old man who grew up in Singapore when it was occupied by Japan during World War II. Despite a language barrier, I enjoyed putting a smile on his face when I attempted to tell him he was very handsome in Mandarin Chinese.

Since it was so hot outside, Jerry ordered our group cups of pineapple juice — freshly squeezed right before our eyes — before proceeding with our food tasting. At 2 Singapore dollars (less than $1.50) per glass, the juice was incredibly affordable given how fresh it was.

Can't-miss dishes

After finishing my pineapple juice, it was time to try some of the Chinatown market's dishes.

The first item Jerry brought to the table was a combination platter featuring roast duck, barbecue pork and roast pork belly, which cost $18 Singapore dollars (or about $13). Although I found the pork to be a bit too fatty, the duck was exceptional. It reminded me of Peking duck, but better. I also enjoyed the hoisin dipping sauce, which had a smooth and slightly sweet aftertaste.

Next up was my favorite dish from Chinatown: fried carrot cake. Contrary to what its name implies, the black-and-white cake (known locally as chai tow kway) isn't actually made with carrots. Instead, the tasty treat, which cost SG$4 (about $3), is made with radishes. That may not sound particularly appealing, but the dish is served in a savory sauce that's packed with flavor. Trust me — you won't want to miss this item.

Another dish worth trying is the oyster omelet (luak), which will set you back SG$8 (approximately $6). Admittedly, oysters are not my favorite ingredient (though I love cooked shellfish), so I wasn't a huge fan of this item. It's a local staple worth trying -- just know that it's an acquired taste.

Fried noodles called char kway teow were also on the menu. Costing just SG$5 (about $3.70), the dish tasted like a mix of pad Thai and drunken noodles. If you're craving a bite of something familiar while you're in Singapore without straying from Asian cuisine, this is the dish to try.

Lastly, Jerry ordered a plate of Hainanese chicken rice for SG$4.50 (roughly $3.50). After the first bite, it was easy to understand why this item is Singapore's unofficial national dish. The delicate chicken reminded me of a ceviche preparation with a citrus-based sauce, and the rice was incredibly flavorful thanks to it being steamed in chicken stock. It was beyond scrumptious.

Little India

After exploring Chinatown, Jerry took us three stops on Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit subway to Little India. Right away, I noticed several stalls selling flowers for puja, a Hindu, Buddhist and Jain tradition of ceremonial worship.

As we walked around the neighborhood, I couldn't help but feel as if I'd been transported to the streets of Chennai, India. Workers were quick on their feet as they headed home after a long day's work, and fumes from passing vehicles filled the air.

Signs to the hawker center were nowhere to be found, but with Jerry's guidance, we soon found ourselves surrounded by subziwallas (vegetable sellers) and vendors selling all kinds of dishes.

Unlike the market in Chinatown, no one stood by the entrance checking visitors' TraceTogether app accounts. Bollywood music could be heard everywhere we turned, creating a much more lively dining experience than in Chinatown. It's no surprise, then, that this food court catered to a considerably younger clientele, serving predominantly first-generation immigrants.

Vendors were also much more active in trying to sell their food, approaching tourists (like us) to attempt to draw us to their stalls.

Once we settled on a spot to sit, Jerry brought us a round of iced mango lassis, a refreshing Indian drink made with fresh chunks of mango. Costing only SG$1.50 (about $1) the sweet beverage was the perfect way to cool off in the hot venue while eyeing the various dishes being sold inside.

We started our meal in Little India with dosa masala, a staple of south Indian cuisine that cost just SG$2 (roughly $1.50). Best described as a savory Indian-style crepe, the slightly sour but incredibly tasty concoction features crisp, thin edges and a soft center topped with a tomato-based sauce. I've always loved dosas, and after eating this one, I found myself craving dosas for the rest of the trip.

Once we finished the dosa masala, Jerry brought out our next set of dishes: chicken tikka (boneless, skinless chicken breast coated in spices and cooked in a traditional oven called a tandoor), saag paneer (a spinach dish made with cubed cheese), aloo matar (a potato and pea curry), garlic naan (an Indian flatbread coated with garlic) and chana masala (chickpeas in a flavorful sauce that included ginger, turmeric and cumin).

While the prices were reasonable — each item cost no more than SG$3 (or about $2.20) — the flavors for some of the dishes were a bit more muted than I expected. Still, I loved trying everything, especially in such an upbeat setting.

It was great to see such a wide array of southern Indian dishes available, as many of these items are hard to find at Indian restaurants in the U.S., which often focus on northern Indian staples. To say my mom and I thoroughly enjoyed our time in Little India would be a huge understatement.

Arab Street

Our last stop on our food tour took us to Arab Street, which is located about a mile east of Little India. Despite lacking proper hawker centers, this culinary hot spot is well worth a visit, as it's home to all kinds of locally loved establishments, including Zam Zam, where we ended up.

Serving Singaporeans for more than 100 years, Zam Zam offered a menu full of Indian Muslim specialties (i.e., dishes from nearby countries like Malaysia and Indonesia).

Its location right across the street from the Sultan Mosque only added to the ambiance.

Following a brief exchange with some of the restaurant employees, who were excited to learn I speak Indonesian, Jerry proceeded to place our order.

Our meal at Zam Zam began with nasi goreng, Indonesia's version of fried rice featuring egg, onion, sweet soy sauce, garlic, green onions, chiles and shrimp paste for SG$5 (about $3.50). While the Zam Zam take on this relatively simple dish wasn't the best version I've ever had, its reasonable price of SG$5 (approximately $3.50) made it worth trying.

The meal became much more impressive after that.

Next up was mie goreng ayam. Costing SG$6 (about $4.50), this fried noodles with chicken dish was incredibly spicy. Despite the fiery kick, each bite was heavenly, as the curry flavor was present without overwhelming the other ingredients. The dish was so mouthwateringly tasty that it was easily my favorite from the trip.

Before leaving, we also ordered a plate of mutton murtabak for SG$8 (or roughly $5.75). Perhaps the most well-known Southeast Asian Muslim dish, the goat meat-filled flatbread didn't disappoint. It reminded me of a thin, chewy Italian calzone. I loved the zesty sauce served on the side, which added a slight punch to what would have otherwise been a relatively bland dish.

Other hawker centers to consider

With more than 100 hawker centers in Singapore, you could easily spend your entire vacation hopping from market to market while barely scratching the surface of what's available.

While Chinatown and Little India house two of Singapore's most popular hawker centers, other neighborhoods also feature food courts worth checking out.

Head to Bedok by Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to sample traditional Malay dishes. The Bedok South Market and Food Centre, in particular, is a must-visit spot for foodies, as it serves everything from comforting bowls of fish soup to yummy breakfast favorites like chwee kueh (steamed water rice cakes).

There are also hawker centers in more upscale neighborhoods like shopping-centric Orchard Road, which appeared in "Crazy Rich Asians." Keep in mind, though, that the markets in bustling tourist spots are going to feel a bit more Western than those found in other parts of Singapore. Should you find yourself visiting the jaw-dropping Gardens by the Bay, be sure to stop by Satay by the Bay, a hawker center situated next to the Cloud Forest.

No culinary trip to Singapore would be complete without exploring Tiong Bahru Market. Located just west of the central Outram neighborhood, this bustling hawker center is known for its Singapore chili crab.

Bottom line

Thanks to their notable characters and lots of mouthwatering dishes, Singapore's hawker centers are unlike any food stalls you'll find elsewhere.

From their humble beginnings as cheap places to savor authentic tastes of home to lively spots where you can satiate your appetite while socializing with fellow patrons, these UNESCO-listed food courts offer a front-row seat to everything I love about Singapore, including its rich culture and friendly residents.

The camaraderie you'll experience while sharing a table with strangers is unmatched, and the budget-friendly prices can't be beat.

Then, of course, there's the food, which is some of the tastiest you'll find in Singapore.

It's no wonder why hawker centers draw droves of hungry locals and tourists every day.

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The best hawker centres in Singapore

Singapore's top hawker centres and the stalls worth queueing for

Looking for cheaper alternatives when dining in the city? Eat like a local and guzzle your way through national dishes like chicken rice, nasi lemak, laksa, satay and more at Singapore's top hawker centres, or as we like to call em' when feeling fancy, 'alfresco' eating spots. Championed by local food connoisseurs, these hawker centres in Telok Ayer, Chinatown, Amoy Street and Maxwell Road are sure to hit the spot.

While dining in hawker centres, do observe returning trays and crockery after enjoying your meal – it's now mandatory unless you want to receive a fine.

RECOMMENDED: Six modern Singaporean hawkers and seven pioneer hawkers who've been around since your parents' time

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Best hawker centres in Singapore

Tiong Bahru Market

• Restaurants
• Tiong Bahru

First known as Seng Poh Market, a one-storey refuge built by the government to house the street hawkers eking out a living in Singapore’s oldest public housing estate, Tiong Bahru Market is now a sprawling two-storey complex that retains much of its timeless appeal despite the surrounding landscape’s burgeoning ‘hip factor’. The ground floor is a hubbub of frenetic bargaining activity on most mornings, with over 250 wet market and retail stalls hawking anything from dried goods to ornamental fish and cheap clothes. But in stark contrast to the claustrophobic experience downstairs, pigging out at the upper deck’s food haven is a spacious, breezy affair. High ceilings, well-spaced-out tables and an alfresco area spell good news for even the fussiest of hawker centre eaters.

TRY  The chwee kueh from J ian Bo Shui Kueh is legendary and has endured for  over 50 years despite the surfeit of similarly-named imposters masquerading as the real deal. This breakfast staple of oily rice cakes and fried chye poh  is simple, sinful and addictive.  Another institution down the same stretch of stalls is Tiong Bahru Pau , which  has since expanded to six outlets island-wide. And a  visit to TBM is never complete without the perennial debate over the two famous lor mee stalls vying for supremacy – both attract long queues and require a 20-minute wait on weekends. 178 Lor Mee is the new kid on the block that boasts pretty unusual ingredients while the more traditional take on this starchy noodle dish can be found at long-standing Tiong Bahru Lor Mee .

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Chwee kueh is the breakfast of choice for Singaporean champs so come down early and start your day right.

Amoy Street Food Centre

• Raffles Place

Whether you’re on a hunt on the city’s best street art or hungry for an assortment of noodle dishes, look no further than the two-storied Amoy Street Food Centre. It is decked with wall art that reflects its heritage, as well as a smorgasbord of hawker choices, from spicy Thai dishes and hearty congee to hearty plate of pasta and traditional nasi padang. For a caffeine fix, head upstairs to Coffee Break for a cup of flavoured lattes and mochas, in place of your regular kopi. And in terms of a range of options for a cheap lunch, Amoy can’t be beaten.

TRY  Michelin-approved A Noodle Story for a local spin on Japanese ramen.  Han Kee Fish Soup is a top favourite with its generous servings of sliced fish in a deliciously fragrant broth. Don’t walk out without curry puffs from the J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff stall.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Beat the lunch crowd by arriving around 11am. Most of the stalls should be ready for business by then and you won't have to fight for a table.

Maxwell Food Centre

Home to a plethora of food stalls that champion different local fare – from flavourful Hainanese chicken rice and nasi lemak to wholesome porridge and mee pok – Maxwell Food Centre is among the favourites for lunchtime nosh in the CBD. The chicken rice hype is real here: you can’t leave this hawker centre without ordering from Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice where Michelin-starred heavyweight Gordon Ramsay and celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain were impressed with its take on the national dish.

TRY   Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice ’s signature dish — its blend of garlic and chilli sauce goes well with the fragrant rice and deboned chicken smothered in light soy sauce. For something less intense, check out Zhen Zhen Porridge where its steaming hot bowls of chicken and fish porridge topped with ginger shreds will leave you satisfied for cheap.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  There are plenty of breakfast and lunch options here but avoid coming by in the evening. Most stalls close by 4pm.

Tekka Centre

• Things to do
• Markets and fairs

Originally an abattoir in the early 1900s at its initial site closer to Sungei Road, Tekka Centre in its present incarnation at the corner of Buffalo, Race Course and Serangoon Roads presents a far more appetising prospect. Now home to one of the best wet markets in town with a greater offering of halal-slaughtered meats than most, the pasar’s adjoining food centre has become a hawker institution offering great grub from a range of cuisines.

TRY Great things are always said about the biryani at Tekka Centre, and tangled in vicious rivalry are the plates offered by Yakader and Allauddin . Other good Indian cuisine options on offer include the mixed plates of shrimp fritters, fishballs and potatoes drenched in a spicy thick orange sauce at Temasek Indian Rojak .

BEST TIME TO VISIT  When you feel hungry enough to order two plates of biryani to finally declare your favourite once and for all.

Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre

What better way to try local food than in the heart of Chinatown? The Chinatown Complex Food Centre is fully loaded with all your favourite Singapore dishes at reasonable prices. This massive hawker centre is also home to over 200 stalls, including local craft beer bar Smith Street Taps and the Michelin-starred Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle – impressive!

TRY  Without a doubt, Liao Fan Hawker Chan  for signatures such as the soya sauce chicken rice or noodle, char siew rice or noodles, as well as roasted pork rice for less than $3 each – the cheapest Michelin meal you’ll ever get! For old-school claypot rice, look no further than Zhao Ji Claypot Rice – think chunky chicken pieces over piping hot aromatic, charred rice.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Chinatown Complex is a great all-day dining option. Pop by during lunch for yong tau foo and chicken rice or come during dinner for claypot rice and beer. You won't be out of options here.

Hong Lim Market & Food Centre

Built in 1978, Hong Lim Market & Food Centre was one of the first proper hawker centres in the Chinatown area (both the more well-known Amoy Street and Maxwell Food Centres nearby came later). It now hosts over 100 cooked food stalls across its two floors and mostly serves the ravenous CBD crowd with its host of award-winning stalls.

TRY A good number of the hawker stalls here have been in the business for several decades, the most prominent among these being the Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa , is known for its fruit juice mee siam and  Ji Ji Wanton Noodle Specialist  serves delicious fresh prawn dumpling noodle.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Come slightly after lunch – 1pm to 2pm – to beat the horde and secure a table before the food sells out.

Ayer Rajah Food Centre

Yeah, it may be a little walk outside of Clementi's central area but a trip to Ayer Rajah Food Centre is well worth the effort, whether by foot or by bus. There are tons of Halal options at this hawker centre including ayam penyet, Indian rojak, mutton soup and mee goreng.

TRY  We love Habib's Rojak , a second-generation Indian rojak store. Pick as many ingredients from the display case as you can manage and the stall owner will lightly fry them in a wok before serving them with a fab sweet dipping sauce. There's also Hong Kong Soy Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles for fab dumpling and roast meats.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Due to its location, this food centre isn't as packed as others, making it a safe bet to visit during lunch.

Old Airport Road Food Centre

From yesteryear, a hawker centre has countless snaking lines at many of its acclaimed stalls – this is possibly the most renowned hawker centre on the island. But be prepared to brave the heat, there are three rows of back-to-back stalls built closely parallel to each other, so the steam and the heat from the stoves are trapped. Your best bet is to sit as close to the main road as possible for a breezy and comfortable meal.

TRY  Start with the soft, smooth handmade rice rolls from Freshly Made Chee Cheong Fun.  Save   space   for the thick yellow ones in a rust-coloured prawn-and-pork- rib broth – simmered at the Albert Street Prawn Noodles . Although the prawns are the headliners, the tender, juicy pork ribs are the real stars. Other highlights include  Toa Payoh Rojak and  Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  As previously mentioned, this place is hot   so you're better off visiting in the evening for a satisfying dinner.

• Singaporean

While locals usually turn their noses up at Lau Pa Sat due to its touristy nature, this historic building has its charms. Aside from its stunning architecture, this hawker centre is loaded with scrumptious local food and international cuisine – providing tons of variety. Each stall is clearly labelled with the specialty it serves, from North Indian and Vietnamese to Hakka and Japanese. Come night-time, the Boon Tat Street side of Lau Pa Sat makes way for satay, the perfect spot for after-work nosh.

TRY  There’s a reason why the queue stands long at Seng Kee Local Delights — customers swarm the stall for its hot-off-the-wok fried Hokkien prawn mee soaked in rich gravy for less than $5. For the health-conscious customer, a visit to the Thunder Tea Rice stall is a must for a bowl of rice served with basil, mint, vegetables, beans, peanut, and fried anchovies – and accompanied with a savoury green tea broth prepared from nuts, sesame, and tea.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Come after 7pm to gorge on satay, grilled sticks of marinated meats. Avoid coming by during lunch as the place is packed with people working in the CBD.

Market Street Hawker Centre

Nested on the second and third levels of CapitaSpring just two minutes away from bustling Raffles Place MRT,  Market Street Food Centre (previously known as Golden Shoe)  now showcases 56 stalls with capacious dining areas and thoughtful design. A short walk from the touristy hawker centre of Lau Pa Sat, this food spot has a cheaper variety — even a cup of hot teh tarik costs less than $1. Whether you’re craving for nasi lemak, hor fun, chicken biryani or fruit smoothies, you can easily find them here, under one roof.

TRY  Give the Market Street Nasi Lemak a try – there’s a reason behind its long, snake-like queue. If you’re in a hurry, try out Golden Nur ’s crispy, fried chicken biryani. The queue moves fast and its signature rice dish is a must-try for any Indian food lover. Ah Liang Ipoh Hor Fun is a hot favourite for slippery-smooth rice noodles smothered in the stall’s flavoursome gravy, topped with the meat of your choice for less than $5.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  If you want to avoid the lunch crowd, come after 1.30pm. The queues are more manageable and you should be able to snag a seat from people rushing back to the office.

Whampoa Drive Food Centre and Market

Deep in the heartlands, Whampoa Drive Food Centre packs 80 stalls serving solid hawker staples, done fresh, well and cheap. It might be quite a trek to get to, but trust us when we say you'll be rewarded with the true taste of local cuisine. It's full of nostalgic finds that locals have been visiting for years, often made by hawkers that have watched them grow up.

TRY Whampoa Drive has long been known for having the best Chinese rojak in Singapore, courtesy of Hoover Rojak , which dates back to the ’60s. The barbeque chicken wings from Whampoa Barbeque Seafood & Chicken Wing  are another favourite at Whampoa. In addition to those two faves, there are plenty of solid hawker staples – try the satay bee hoon at Whampoa Satay Bee Hoon  or the dark carrot cake at Kim Kee Homemade Carrot Cake , fried up by a friendly hawker operator who’ll happily chat up a storm while you wait. For something different, Rabiah Muslim Food  notably offers a nasi Melayu selection including mutton curry, deep-fried potato and sambal tempeh tahu.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  While some stores open till the evening, you get the most variety when you visit while the sun's still up.

East Coast Lagoon Food Village

Nothing beats dining by the beach. After a dip in the sea and sand, show off your brand new tan at the East Coast Lagoon Food Village for piping hot street nosh. The food centre is big on barbecued seafood and local fare such as chili crab, satay, mee goreng and popiah. With plenty of stalls serving up a variety of dishes, as well as seats catered for larger groups, stuffing yourself silly with food and beer at East Coast Park with fellow beach bums is sorted. Just watch out for the strong winds come night time.

TRY  One word – satay. The barbecued classic is unbeatable here. Haron Satay has been around for a long time, and there's a reason why. Its generous servings of chicken, beef and lamb satay, paired with rice cakes and tasty peanut sauce, is an absolute favourite amongst beachgoers here. If you're brave enough,  Stingray Forever BBQ Seafood 's barbecued sambal stingray ranks high on the heat-o-meter, and its serving-size is great for sharing. Craving for fried carrot cake and popiah? Lagoon Famous Carrot Cake 's seafood take on the dishes is one to try.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  In the evenings after a day cycling through the park or out on the beach.

Haig Road Market

Whether you're down Geylang Serai for a bit of grocery shopping at its massive wet market, making a pit stop at Haig Road Market for a bite or two is an absolute must. Just a walk away from Geylang Serai Market, the hawker centre is the largest in the area, and boasts a plethora of stalls offering menus ranging from Indian, Malay and Chinese fare to Western delights and fusion food. 

TRY  Satisfy your sweet tooth at Traditional Haig Road Putu Piring where the stall is popular for its gula Melaka-filled steamed rice flour cakes topped with grated coconut. For a taste of Malaysia, hit up Lin Yu Mei Sarawak Laksa & Kolo Mee . It's $4 for a bowl of kolo mee here, and it's served with a generous amount of egg noodles, minced pork and sliced char siew. But if you're looking for a way cheaper option, HJ Waliti HJ Mazuki 's mee rebus and aromatic mee soto is an affordable option too.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  Putu piring makes for an excellent tea time snack – more so when paired with a piping hot cup of frothy teh tarek.

Boon Lay Place Food Village

For delectable hawker grub in the West, look no further than Boon Lay Place Food Village. The menu here comes with a wide selection, from your go-to nasi lemak to fiery seafood dishes, in reasonably low prices. Queues move fast here, and if you ever get stuck in one, the hawker centre has Wi-Fi to keep you busy too – just in case you end up in a particularly long queue.

TRY   Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak 's classic take serves coconut rice, peanuts and sambal with a selection of turmeric-coated fried chicken, fish paste otah or a tiny piece of deep fried fish – usually ikan selar – with edible pin bones. Ho Huat Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee also deserves a shoutout for its signature wet noodles.

BEST TIME TO VISIT  One of the best hawker centres for supper, Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak is open till 3.30am alongside other stalls that keep the late night tummy grumbles at bay.

Makan Spotlight: Biryani

Makan Spotlight: Rojak

Makan Spotlight: Laksa

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9 Best Hawker Centers in Singapore—and What to Eat There

Take in singapore’s multi-faceted food culture, one bite at a time..

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A visit to one of the world’s most expensive cities doesn’t mean you’ll spend a fortune dining out. Singapore’s lively, no-frills hawker centers are where the best food is found, and you can enjoy a full meal for less than $5. Don’t just take our word for it: Singapore’s hawker culture is so distinctive that it was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2020. Around the city, there are more than 118 of these open-air food courts, all offering a wide variety of cuisine (Chinese, Malay, Indian), reflective of the city-state’s multi-ethnic makeup. Expect to see halal and Chinese hawkers cooking side by side, casual seating arrangements (it’s not unusual for people to share tables), and a mostly cash-based self-service ordering system (some stall owners now accept card/digital payments like Apple Pay and AliPay). Because the food is freshly prepared, most hawkers have sporadic opening hours, closing shop once they’re sold out, so go by lunchtime or risk being disappointed.

While the choices can prove overwhelming, the good news is you rarely get a bad hawker meal. When in doubt, join the stall with the longest queue and replicate the order of the patron in front of you. Looking for a little more guidance? These are among the best hawker centers in Singapore—most patronized by locals for decades—and what we recommend you order.

1. Hong Lim Market & Food Centre

A fixture in the Chinatown area since it was built in 1978, this hawker center near Chinatown MRT is on the smaller side (it has just 100 stalls) but it’s a go-to spot for many working in the area. Loyal customers join snaking queues daily at heritage hawker stalls. It’s busiest at lunchtime thanks to its location in the Central Business District; try going a little before to beat the crowds. When in doubt, order from the Michelin Bib Gourmand awardees (selected by the French tire company for serving “great food at reasonable prices”).

Best stalls to visit

Tai Wah Pork Noodle #02-16 Hong Lim Market & Food Centre, Blk 531A Upper Cross St., S051531. Open daily 7:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

Arguably one of Singapore’s best versions of bak chor mee (minced pork noodles tossed in a vinegar-chili sauce), this family-owned eatery has earned multiple awards and has unrelenting queues daily. A Bib Gourmand winner, the saucy, springy noodles in a mixture of tangy black vinegar, chili, and lard oil has an unmistakable umami flavor enhanced by well-seasoned minced meat, soft wontons, and pork meatballs. Thin slices of pork liver and crispy sole fish are the crowning glory.

Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee #02-17 Hong Lim Market & Food Centre, Blk 531A Upper Cross St., S051531. Open daily 6 a.m.–3 p.m.

This third-generation hawker stall—another Bib Gourmand awardee—has no shortage of customers, thanks to its ability to produce a plate of char kway teow (stir-fried rice noodles) that’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet. (More amazing still: They have no written recipe.) The noodles are bathed in dark soya sauce and chili with a generous punch of wok he i (wok aroma, for that inimitable smoky flavor), accented by crunchy bean sprouts, juicy cockles (optional), and nuggets of pork lard fried fresh daily. Pro tip: If you see a particularly big portion being fried up, it’s veteran hawker Ng Chin Chye at the helm.

Tanglin Crispy Curry Puff #02-34 Hong Lim Market and Food Centre, Blk 531A Upper Cross St., S051531. Open daily 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

Chances are you’ll be waiting a bit for your main meal so you might as well have a snack while doing so. These handrolled curry puffs are especially popular—they’re generously stuffed with a mix of curried chicken, egg, and potato in a crisp, light pastry before it is flash fried to perfection.

2. Adam Road Food Centre

Small in size and known for its halal-certified eats, this hawker center is located opposite the Singapore Botanical Gardens (Bukit Timah Gate). After exploring the tropical grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage site, tuck into some hawker favorites: mee soto (spicy chicken noodle dish), Hokkien mee (stir-fried noodles with prawns), and mee goreng (Indonesian style stir-fried noodles). Organized in a simple U-shape and framed by five angsana trees, there are approximately 40 stalls run by longtime owners doing brisk business for decades.

Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak #01-02 Adam Road Hawker Centre, 2 Adam Rd., S289877. Open Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m.–3 p.m.; Monday–Thursday 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

This plate of nasi lemak (coconut rice) is fit for royalty—literally. (It is a favorite of the Sultan of Brunei, according to the Straits Times .) There’s always a queue for the Royal Rumble, a combination plate of fluffy aromatic basmati rice served with an assortment of sides: deep-fried potato pancake, flash-fried chicken, otah (spiced fish cake), crispy peanuts and fried anchovies, accompanied by a generous dollop of sambal chili.

Bahrakath Mutton Soup King #01-10 Adam Road Hawker Centre, 2 Adam Rd., S289877. Open daily 1 p.m.–3 a.m.

There aren’t many places to still get a warm bowl of mutton soup, but this longtime favorite has been deemed sedap (delicious) by those in the know. Hours of boiling mutton bones result in this rich, robust, spiced soup with chunks of tender mutton topped by crispy scallion and onions.

Noo Cheng Adam Road Big Prawn Mee #01-17 Adam Road Hawker Centre, 2 Adam Rd., S289876. Open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m.

On cold rainy days, there’s rarely anything more comforting than a piping hot bowl of prawn noodles ( hae mee ): your pick of yellow egg noodles or thin rice vermicelli, festooned with fresh prawns, sweet pork slices, and springy fish cake. This hawker stalwart is known for its rich, umami broth cultivated from slowly simmering prawn heads, shells, pork bones, herbs, and spices; enjoy it to the last drop.

3. Amoy Street Food Centre

In the Central Business District, this newly renovated, bustling food center has a mix of heritage hawkers, Michelin Bib Gourmand winners, and new-generation owners serving modernized hawker staples like A Fishball Story’s Singapore-style ramen with handmade fishballs. There’s a wide selection of eats, including sliced fish soup, vadai (fried Indian snacks), mee goreng, and rice dumplings to sample. Avoid lunchtime, as it gets crowded when the surrounding office crowds gather for their favorite hawker meal.

Hoo Kee Rice Dumplings #01-18, Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Rd., S069111. Open Tuesday–Friday 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

This traditional bak zhang (rice dumpling) seller has been in business for more than 50 years. A Bib Gourmand awardee, Hoo Kee is the gold standard for many locals, who flock here morning, noon, and night. Prepared daily at dawn by hand, the Hokkien-style glutinous rice is studded with nuggets of pork and roasted chestnuts and flavored with five-spice powder and soya sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the salted egg version with its earthy, semi-sweet flavor.

Amoy Street Fried Kway Teow #01-01, Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Rd., S069111. Open Monday–Saturday 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

What started as a traveling pushcart in the 1960s has become one of the best plates of char kway teow on the island. It is favored by many for its healthy amount of wok hei and use of fresh cockles coated with just the right amount of dark soy sauce.

Han Kee Fish Soup #02-122, Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Rd., S069111. Open Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

A go-to option for locals seeking a healthier hawker meal. Don’t despair if the queue for this fish soup stall seems endless—it moves quickly. This nourishing bowl (they offer three sizes) of fish soup brims with thick slices of Spanish mackerel (batang); it’s popular for its clean, fresh flavor and sweet broth spiked with bits of fried garlic.

4. Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre

Buzzing with activity from dawn till the late afternoon, this popular eating spot in the west is hidden from most tourists. Attracting a mix of students, nearby residents, and active hikers refueling while traversing the nearby 15-mile Green Corridor nature trail, it offers a selection of timeless hawker treats: boneless braised duck, appam (fermented rice pancake), fried prawn mee, and peanut pancakes. It’s also an excellent place to catch new-generation hawkers carrying on their family’s legacy.

Li Lao San Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh #01-54 Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre , 20 Ghim Moh Rd., S270020. Open daily 6:30 a.m.– 5 p.m.

The springy steamed rice cakes topped with a savory-sweet chai poh (preserved turnip) have been handmade by the same family since the 1960s. Li Lao San Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh remains a favorite of locals for its use of pork lard, which gives each cake a fuller flavor.

Jiu Jiang Shao La #01-17 Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre , 20 Ghim Moh Rd., S270020. Open Thursday–Sunday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Brave the snaking queues for a plate of its roasted goodies: char siew (barbecue pork), roast duck, and roast pork. Choose the fattier cut of barbecued pork that’s charred beautifully—it’ll still be juicy with every bite—but you really can’t go wrong with the affordable Three Roast Meat combo plate, so you can sample it all. Heaven’s Indian Curry #01-26 Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre , 20 Ghim Moh Rd., S270020. Open Tuesday–Sunday 6 a.m.–1 p.m.

Hit up this stall for a taste of Indian breakfast staples like thosai (savory thin pancake made from fermented lentil and rice batter), appam, and putu mayam (rice flour string hoppers). If you only have stomach space to sample one item, order the bowl-shaped appam, which is handmade fresh in an iron mini wok to achieve a crisp texture. The subtle sour flavor? That’s from the rice flour and coconut milk batter, which is left to ferment for eight hours before hitting the pan.

A plate of chicken rice from Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice

Photo by Kapi Ng/Shutterstock

5. Maxwell Food Centre

In the heart of Chinatown, this single-story hawker center offers a wide range of Singapore-style Chinese food. Once a wet market in the 1950s, it remains popular with residents, office workers, and tourists as a one-stop location to try everything from oyster cake to fish soup.

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice #01-10/11 Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur St., S069184. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

No visit to Singapore is complete without a plate of chicken rice, and Tian Tian arguably serves the best version. Its flavorful poached chicken is drizzled with house-made soya sauce–based dressing and served with a mound of chicken stock-–nfused rice.

China Street Fritters #01-64 Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur St., S069184. Open times vary; call +65 9239 6464 before going.

Try these crispy Hokkien-style fritters while you still can. The owners of the 80-year-old hawker stall have announced they’ll hang up their aprons for the price of S$1 million dollars (US$750,000) for their secret family recipe. Until that happens, get your fill of their handmade fritters: meat rolls, egg slices, and pink sausage dipped in a starchy sweet sauce with a drop of piquant chili sauce.

Fu Shun Roasted Meat Specialist #01-71 Maxwell Food Center, 1 Kadayanallur St., S069184. Open Monday–Saturday 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m.

Hungry office workers make a beeline here for their fix of this Cantonese stall’s crispy sio bak (roast pork belly), flavorful roast duck, and charcoal roasted char siew, served either with noodles or rice. Regulars love this stall for its generous portions and high-quality ingredients.

6. Newton Food Centre

A short drive (or walk) from Orchard Road, this bustling hawker center will look familiar thanks to its cameo in Crazy Rich Asians . (Credit to the scriptwriters who didn’t embellish the experience.) Here, the seafood stalls are plentiful (and most are excellent) and there’s a dizzying array of food to try, from laksa (spicy coconut noodle soup) to satay (spiced skewers served with a peanut sauce), ice kachang (shaved ice), and fresh-off-the-griddle oyster omelette. Top it all off with a glass of cold sugarcane juice.

Hup Kee Fried Oyster Omelette #01-73 Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Ave. N., S229495. Open Tuesday–Saturday 6 p.m.–midnight.

Hup Kee’s fans are steadfastly loyal to this hawker icon, who has been plying his trade since the 1960s. Expect a generous plate of crispy-edged, juicy oyster omelette accompanied by a dipping sauce of garlic-accented chili.

Guan Kee Seafood #01-53 Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Ave. N., S229495. Open daily 11 a.m.–midnight.

There are many seafood stalls at Newton Food Centre, but Guan Kee’s halal certification makes it a safe choice for all travelers. If you order only one dish here, make it the sambal stingray, which is grilled fresh and moist to the bite, brushed with a rich shallot and dried shrimp sambal sauce. Ask for the sauce on the side if you prefer an unspicy meal.

Bee Heng Popiah and Satay Newton #01-12 Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Ave. N., S229495. Open Friday-Wednesday noon–midnight.

Don’t even try to order a single roll of popiah (fresh Teochew-style spring roll filled with stewed turnip); there’s a minimum order of two from this hawker, who’s been in business since the 1930s. While they’re pricier than others, their traditional style of stewed soft turnip, crunchy bean sprouts, and freshly diced boiled eggs encased in a paper-thin popiah skin with a generous topping of crushed peanuts, sweet sauce, and potent chili (optional) is a multi-textured mouthful of deliciousness.

7. Old Airport Road Food Centre

Home to several famous Singapore hawkers, Old Airport Road Food Centre has been one of the island’s best-loved hawker haunts for over 40 years. The queues for popular dishes— lor mee (Hokkien-style noodles in gravy), rojak (fruit and vegetable salad with palm sugar dressing), satay, char kway teow—can get long, but there are excellent people-watching opportunities to bide the time.

Dong Ji Fried Kway Teow #01-138 Old Airport Road Food Centre, 51 Old Airport Rd., S390051. Open Monday—Saturday 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Different from the sweet, dark, and wet Singapore-style fried kway teow, this Penang-style version full of wok hei is drier with charred bits of noodle and fried with a generous amount of cockles, fishcake, and prawns. The elderly uncle manning the one-man operation meticulously fries each order individually, which is reason enough to join the line.

Toa Payoh Rojak #01-108 Old Airport Road Food Centre, 51 Old Airport Rd., S390051. Monday–Saturday noon–7 p.m.

Arguably one of the better versions of Chinese-style rojak in Singapore, the secret to Toa Payoh’s success lies in the piquant prawn-paste sauce that coats the chunks of pineapple, jicama, and kang kong (water spinach) that make up this sweet-salty fruit and vegetable salad. Expect it served with crushed peanuts and freshly toasted dough sticks.

132 Claypot Rice #01-132, Old Airport Road Food Centre, 51 Old Airport Rd., S390051. Open Wednesday–Monday 12:30–9:30 p.m.

There’s a good reason you’ll be kept waiting for this fragrant, sweet-salty rice dish of lightly charred chicken and savory Chinese sausage with salted fish drizzled in thick dark soy: Each portion is only cooked upon order. Top up with some salted egg yolk for extra flavor and be sure to scrap all the charred bits of rice at the bottom.

Spring for the prawn fritters at Temasek Indian Rojak.

Photo by ZDL/Shutterstock

8. Tekka Market Food Centre

Located at the entrance of Singapore’s vibrant Little India enclave, this multi-use building houses a wet market, food center, and retail shops in a single complex. Go here to sample the island’s best Indian food: The sprawling complex has more than 100 hawkers to sample, but the section on the first level (facing Bukit Timah Road) has a concentration of stalls serving favorites like biryani ( aka briyani), thosai, and murtabak .

Note : Tekka Market Food Centre will be undergoing renovations from July 3, 2023, until September 30, 2023.

Rasa Raja Bojun #01-280 Tekka Centre, 665 Buffalo Rd., S210665. Open daily 9:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m.

Sri Lankan food, specifically Sinhalese cuisine, isn’t particularly easy to track down in Singapore, which makes this hawker stall especially popular. Take your pick of dishes like savory-sour fish curry, seasonal jackfruit curry, and specialties like stir-fried banana blossom and side dishes like gotukola sambal , a refreshing raw green salad made with pennywort and grated coconut.

Allauddin’s Briyani #01-232 Tekka Market Food Centre, 666 Buffalo Rd., S210665. Open daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

If you love a good biryani (spiced Indian rice dish with slow-cooked meats), Tekka Market is biryani central. Amid all the stalls hawking their version of this comfort dish, Allauddin’s Briyani is known for its dum-style biryani where the meat is layered and cooked till fall-apart tender with the rice to fully infuse the spices and flavors. In operation since 1968, Allauddin’s also serves a chicken and fish option.

Temasek Indian Rojak #01-254 Tekka Market Food Centre, 666 Buffalo Rd., S210665. Open daily Tuesday–Thursday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Friday–Sunday 9 a.m. –7 p.m.

There are many versions of rojak (“mixture” in Malay), but this stall serving the Indian version of deep-fried fritters (prawn, cuttlefish, tofu, fish cake) is celebrated for its crisp batter and sweet, homemade dipping sauce with a hint of heat. Order with your eyes, but definitely include its three types of prawn fritters, and eat them with a touch of sauce and fresh onions.

9. Tiong Bahru Market

This curved, two-story hawker center looks perfect in the art deco, hipster enclave of Tiong Bahru. As one of the oldest public housing estates in Singapore, it’s home to a few heritage hawkers and some Bib Gourmand awardees. With a wet market on the ground floor and more than 80 stalls on the upper level serving hawker classics like chwee kueh (steamed rice flour cakes topped with preserved turnip), sweet mung bean soup, Hokkien prawn mee, and lor mee, there’s something for everyone.

Tiong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee #02-01 Tiong Bahru Market, 30 Seng Poh Rd., S168898. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 4:30–7:30 p.m.

A multiple Bib Gourmand awardee, this signature Hokkien mee is cooked to order in small batches so you know your dish is always fresh from the wok. Locals love the slightly charred noodles studded with bits of egg, prawns, and fishcake. Don’t forget to squeeze the fresh lime before your first bite for a touch of refreshing citrus. Go early as it typically sells out before closing time.

Tiong Bahru Lor Mee #02-80 Tiong Bahru Food Centre, 30 Seng Poh Rd., S168898. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 5:30 a.m.–2 p.m.

The crowds gather early for a bowl of tummy-warming noodles bathed in velvety gravy with mild herbaceous notes. Topped with braised pork belly, fish cake, fried wonton, hard-boiled egg, and ngoh hiang (five-spiced pork rolls), the bowl is full enough—but customize yours by adding black vinegar, red chili, and garlic.

Zhong Yu Yuan Wei Wanton Mee #02-30 Tiong Bahru Market, 30 Seng Poh Rd., S168898. Open Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday 7 a.m.–1 p.m.

Residents of Tiong Bahru swear by this bowl of wonton noodles, which continually wins favor for its slices of beautifully marbled char siew that are lightly charred and tender to the bite. Don’t forget to top it all off with a smidge of chili jam.

This article was originally published in 2022. It was most recently updated on May 2, 2023 to include new information.

9 Best Hawker Centres in Singapore

Marianne Rogerson

May 5, 2023

We take a look at the best hawker centres in Singapore , highlighting the top spots for delicious and affordable street food.

When visiting Singapore, one of the must-try experiences is indulging in the diverse and delicious street food scene at the city’s hawker centres. 

As a food lover, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice, with a wide array of flavours and cuisines that showcase the multicultural nature of Singapore. Hawker centres are teeming with stalls that serve a variety of dishes such as Char Kway Teow, Laksa, and Hainanese Chicken Rice, all at affordable prices.

As you explore the Lion City, these culinary gems will provide a fantastic experience that is both budget-friendly and authentically local. You’ll not only satisfy your appetite, but also gain a deeper understanding of Singapore’s diverse heritage and culinary traditions.

But with more than 100 hawker centres to choose from at these open-air food courts, how do you know which one to go to? Here, we help you narrow it down to help you find the best Singapore hawker centres that are also easy to get to for visitors to Singapore. 

So bring your appetite and an adventurous spirit and enjoy your culinary journey.

Happy feasting!

Before you get started – check out our pick of the best local food dishes in Singapore . 

Table of Contents

What is a hawker centre?

A hawker centre is an (often open-air) food complex featuring a multitude of food stalls, serving up affordable food in a variety of local dishes. 

Originally hawkers would walk the streets pushing their carts and setting up shop in temporary surroundings. As time evolved, these ‘villages’ of food stalls became permanent. 

They are now carefully regulated by the Singapore government to ensure strict health and safety compliance.

Got questions? Come join our Singapore Travel Tips Facebook group . It’s the perfect place to ask questions and get inspiration for your trip!

Why visit a hawker centre?

Visiting a hawker centre is one of the best authentic cultural experiences you can have in Singapore.  You’ll get to eat as the locals do, try delicious local dishes and, best of all, it won’t cost you very much at all!

Here’s why else we recommend visiting a hawker centre. 

• You’ll find a range of different cuisines : Savour dishes from various Chinese, Indian, and Malay culinary traditions, reflecting Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
• There’s something for everyone : With over 50 stalls in some centres, you’re bound to find something to suit your taste buds.
• It’s affordable : Enjoy delicious dishes for around $4-10, making it easy to sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
• It’s a great atmosphere : You’ll get to experience the bustling buzzing atmosphere as locals and tourists alike gather to bond over their love for good food.

A Melting Pot of Cultures

Singapore’s hawker centres are more than just convenient dining options – they represent the very essence of what makes the nation unique, vibrant, and unforgettable.

The food stalls here epitomise the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Singaporean cuisine. 

You’ll find an incredible array of dishes from the nation’s main ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, Indian and Indonesian, as well as some Western, Japanese and Korean options. You’ll even find stalls selling the local Tiger Beer to wash it all down with.

Don’t be shy to ask the friendly stallholders for recommendations or tips on how to best enjoy their dishes. They’ll be more than happy to share their passion for food with you.

Iconic Hawker Centres and Their Star Dishes

Singapore is home to more than 100 hawker centres. We’ve narrowed it down to some of our favourites that a) have fantastic food options and b) are easy for tourists to get to, especially if you are short on time while visiting the city. 

1. Lau Pa Sat

Lau Pa Sat is probably the most famous hawker centre in Singapore. It is handily located in the heart of the CBD, making it a popular choice for office workers, who flock here at lunchtime. 

The cast-iron Victorian structure was built in 1894 and shipped from Glasgow and the hawker centre here boasts over 80 stalls. 

Boon Tat Street to the side of Lau Pa Sat is locally known as ‘Satay Street’, and really comes to life after dark when hundreds of satay lovers flock to the area and the stalls start churning out clouds of smoke and vying for business. It’s a great atmosphere. 

The Best food at Lau Pa Sat:  

• Satay on Satay Street (after dark only)
• Sambal Stingray from Ming Yen Seafood
• Chicken Rice at Ipoh Hainanese Chicken Rice 
• Hokkien Mee at Golden Shoe Hokkien Mee

How to Get to Lau Pa Sat : MRT to Raffles Place EW14/NS26

2. Makansutra Gluttons’ Bay

Makansutra Gluttons’ Bay offers a bit more of an upmarket and tranquil experience, compared to most other hawker centres. 

Located next to the Esplanade Theatre on Marina Bay, Glutton’s Bay is one of the smaller hawker centres, with a select few stalls serving up good quality versions of all the favourites. 

The open-air umbrella-ed seating means breezy alfresco dining with a view of the skyline across the bay, making this one of the more pleasant hawker centres to spend an evening at. (Not open for lunch)

The Best Dishes at Makansutra Gluttons’ Bay:

• BBQ Chicken Wings from Huat Huat Chicken Wings
• Mee Goreng from Old Satay Club
• Satay from Alhambra Padang Satay
• Sambal Stingray at Redhill Rong Guang B.B.Q Seafood

How to get to Makansutra Gluttons Bay : MRT to City Hall EW13/NS25

3. Maxwell Food Centre

Located in the heart of Chinatown , the Maxwell Hawker Centre has over 100 food stalls. Its proximity to Chinatown and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple make this a great option for lunch if you are in the area sightseeing. 

The most famous stall here is Tian Tian Chicken Rice, widely regarded as one of the best chicken rice stalls in Singapore. They have been serving up their famous version of one of Singapore’s best loved dishes since 1987. 

If you come here for the Chicken Rice, be prepared to queue! It’s one of the most popular hawker stalls in Singapore. 

The Best food at Maxwell Food Centre :

• Hainanese Chicken Rice from Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
• Congee from Zhen Zhen Porridge
• Fuzhou oyster cake from Maxwell Fuzhou Oyster Cake
• Briyani at Famous Queens Briyani

How to get to Maxwell Food Centre : MRT to Maxwell TE18

4. Newton Food Centre

You may recognise Newton Food Centre as it famously appeared in the movie Crazy Rich Asians. 

Even before the movie was released, this was always a popular food centre with tourists and with the expats who live in the Orchard Road area, leading many locals to complain that it is an expensive tourist trap. 

It’s true it does feature on some bus tours, but it is easy to get to, airy and offers a staggering variety of stalls, so we still think it is worth a visit.

Best food stalls at Newton Food Centre:

• Carrot Cake from Heng Carrot Cake
• BBQ Stingray from Guan Lee Seafood 
• Oyster Omelette from Hup Kee Fried Oyster Omelette
• Chilli Crab at Alliance Seafood

How to get to Newton Food Centre:  MRT to Newton DT11/NS21

5. Chinatown Complex Food Centre

Singapore’s largest hawker centre, the Chinatown Complex Food Centre is handily located in the heart of Chinatown very close to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Chinatown markets. 

With over 250 stalls, there is something for everyone at this popular hawker centre. This food centre features several Michelin Bib Gourmand awardees and famous stalls.

 However the most famous of all is Hawker Chan  Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle. This was the first hawker stall to be awarded a Michelin Star in 2016. 

Chef Chan now has 12 outlets in six countries, but you can still visit the humble hawker stall where it all began right here.

The best food at the Chinatown Complex Food Centre:

• Soya Sauce Chicken Rice at Hawker Chan
• Char Kway Teow at Hill Street Fried Kway Teow
• Popiah at Ann Chin Popiah
• Claypot at Lian He Ben Ji Claypot

How to get to Chinatown Complex Food Centre: MRT to Chinatown DT19/NE4

6. East Coast Lagoon Food Village

The East Coast Lagoon Food Village offers a breezy alfresco atmosphere in which to indulge in some delicious hawker food. It’s Singapore’s only beachside hawker centre, making for a relaxed holiday vibe. 

It’s a popular dining spot for local East Coast families and a frequent stop-off point for cyclists to refuel at lunchtime.

Best food at the East Coast Lagoon Food Village:

• Satay at Haron Satay
• Char Kway Teow at Choon Hiang
• Sambal Stingray at Stingray Forever BBQ Seafood
• Bak Kut Teh at Han Jia Bak Kut Teh

How to get to East Coast Lagoon Food Village: Bus 401 from Bedok MRT station EW5

7. Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre

Located above the wet market, the Tiong Bahru food centre is very popular with local Singaporeans who will travel across town to come here. 

Tiong Bahru market is known for its exceptional Chwee Kueh and Lor Mee, so don’t miss out on a chance to try these local dishes. 

You’ll also find five hawker stalls recommended in the Michelin guide, so you can be confident that the standard is high here. 

Best food at Tiong Bahru Market:

• Chwee Kueh at Jian Bo Shui Kueh
• Lor Mee at Lor Mee 178
• Chicken Rice at Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice
• Prawn Mee at Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee

How to get to Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre: MRT to Tiong Bahru EW17

8. Amoy Street Food Centre

Handily located close to the Central Business District, Amoy Street Food Centre is another popular hawker centre with office workers at lunchtime. 

There are a lot of good stalls here, spread out over the two levels, so take your time to wander around and take them all in before deciding what to order. 

We highly recommend the Curry Puffs at J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff, they are some of the best in Singapore. Fish Soup is another popular dish here. 

Best Food at Amoy Street Food Centre:

• Curry Puffs at J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff
• Bak Zhang (Rice dumplings) at Hoo Kee Rice Dumpling
• Fish Soup at Han Lee
• Singapore-style Ramen at A Noodle Story

How to get to Amoy Street Food Centre:  MRT to Telok Ayer DT18 or Tanjong Pagar EW15 or Shenton Way TE19

9. Tekka Centre

Located in the heart of Little India , the Tekka Centre is a haven for those who enjoy Indian and South Asian cuisine. But there are plenty of other hawker dishes on offer here too. 

The Tekka Centre also houses one of the best wet markets in Singapore, so take your time to look around while you are here. 

Best Food at the Tekka Centre:

• Mee Siam at Grandma Mee Siam
• Rojak at Temasek Indian Rojak
• Briyani at Allauddin’s Briyani
• Prawn Noodles at 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodles

How to get to the Tekka Centre: MRT to Little India DT12/NE7

Lens on Local Singapore Hawker Dishes

As you explore the rich culinary offerings of Singapore’s hawker centres, you’ll discover mouthwatering dishes that cater to a variety of taste buds. 

Here focus on three major culinary categories – Chinese Delights, Indian Flavours, and Malay Specialities.

You can read more about all these dishes and more in our article about the best local food in Singapore.  

Chinese Delights

Chinese Singaporeans make up 75% of the population, so it is no surprise that you will find plenty of dishes of Chinese origin. Many of these dishes were brought to Singapore by the waves of Chinese immigrants during the 19 th  century and have been adapted over time to become distinctly Singaporean.

Some of these culinary delights include:

• Hainanese Chicken Rice : One of Singapore’s most famous dishes, this delectable dish prepared by steaming or poaching chicken and serving it with fragrant jasmine rice cooked in chicken stock. 
• Char Kway Teow : A satisfying stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, prawns, eggs, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts. It’s often cooked with dark soy sauce and chilli paste for an extra kick.
• Hokkien Prawn Mee : A savoury noodle soup dish featuring a flavour-packed broth made from prawn shells, served with yellow noodles and topped with fresh juicy prawns. 
• Bak Kut Teh – a clear garlicky, peppery pork rib soup with the meat falling off the bones.
• Fried Carrot Cake – A steamed radish ‘cake’ stir-fried with garlic, soy sauce, eggs and spring onion. 

Indian Flavours

With around 10% of the Singapore population being of Indian descent, you can also find a good variety of delicious Indian dishes within the hawker scene. Here are some of our favourites:

• Roti Prata : Singapore’s most ubiquitous Indian dish. Thin, flaky Indian flatbread served with an accompanying curry sauce. 
• Biryani: A layered dish that includes rice and either vegetables or meat with Indian spices.
• Rojak : A mixture of fruits and vegetables, fried dough sticks and sometimes grilled cuttlefish and fried tofu, all mixed up in a sweet and spicy sauce.
• Masala Dosa: Thin lentil pancake stuffed with served with potato curry, chutney and sambar.

Malay / Indonesian Specialities

The Malay community make up around 12-13% of the Singapore population, and many of Singapore’s most famous dishes come from Malay cuisine. These include Laksa, Nasi Lemak – and everyone’s favourite: Satay.

• Satay : Skewers of marinated meat, often chicken, beef, or mutton, grilled to perfection and served with a delectable peanut sauce. This dish can be found at most hawker centres.
• Sambal Stingray : Barbecued stingray smothered with a spicy sambal sauce made from a mixture of chilli paste, shallots, and shrimp paste.
• Nasi Lemak : A popular Malay dish consisting of rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with sides like fried fish, chicken, or ikan bilis (anchovies), egg, and sambal chilli. 
• Mee Goreng : A flavourful Indonesian fried noodle dish, topped with vegetables, tofu, and your choice of meat.

Navigating Hawker Centre Etiquette

New to eating in a hawker centre? Here are a few tips around Singapore’s hawker culture to make sure you blend in with the locals!

Picking the Perfect Meal

With a plethora of food stalls to choose from, selecting the perfect meal may seem daunting. However, a few simple strategies can help you navigate the options: 

• Take your time to walk around the centre and explore your options before deciding.
• Look for long queues, as this often indicates how good and well-known the stall is.
• Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations. 
• Keep an eye out for any awards or accolades displayed at the food stalls, which suggest a higher level of quality.
• Hawker centre seating is first-come, first-served. During busy times, it’s best to secure a seat before ordering your food. 
• If you see a packet of tissues on a table, this means the seat is reserved. Feel free to do the same to reserve your own seat.
• Don’t be shy and ask to share tables with other diners. 
• Although some stalls will accept cashless payment, usually Cash is King at hawker stalls.

Lunchtime Peak Hours

Visiting a hawker centre during lunchtime peak hours can be a bustling experience. Be prepared for the rush, as both office workers and tourists flock to these culinary havens during this time. 

The key to success is patience and good manners, as you will likely find longer queues at popular food stalls.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Plan ahead by arriving slightly earlier or later than the peak rush, since finding a seat and ordering food can be challenging during these times.
• Be prepared for queues at popular food stalls. 
• Finally, remember to be patient and polite with the stall owners and other customers, as everyone is here to enjoy their shared love of delicious food!

Yes it is safe to eat hawker food in Singapore. Hawker stalls are carefully regulated by the Singapore government to ensure strict health and safety compliance. Licenses are subject to regular inspections.

Singaporeans like to eat at hawker centres because they offer a wide variety of food choices at affordable prices. They are also quick and convenient and offer a community atmosphere for dining.

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22 Best Hawker Centres In Singapore [2024]

Hawker centres in Singapore are like treasure troves of delicious and affordable food, each one offering a unique culinary experience that reflects the rich tapestry of our local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone looking to explore the flavors of Singapore, these hawker centres are a must-visit. In this guide, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering journey through some of the best hawker centres in the city. Keep in mind that this list is entirely based on personal experiences and preferences, and there are many more fantastic hawker centres waiting to be discovered.

Table of Contents

1. Maxwell Food Centre

2. golden mile food centre, 3. old airport road food centre, 4. amoy street food centre, 5. geylang serai market and food centre, 6. whampoa drive food centre and market, 7. east coast lagoon food village, 8. haig road market & food centre, 9. adam road food centre, 10. chinatown complex market & food centre, 11. tiong bahru food centre, 12. tekka centre, 13. ghim moh market & food centre, 14. hong lim market & food centre, 15. ayer rajah food centre, 16. market street hawker centre, 17. tampines round market & food centre, 18. abc brickworks market & food centre, 19. changi village hawker centre, 20. bedok 85 fengshan food centre, 21. lau pa sat, 22. newton food centre, hawker centres in singapore, best hawker centres in singapore.

Maxwell Food Centre, an iconic hub in Singapore’s culinary scene, boasts not only the globally renowned Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice but also its equally celebrated neighbor, Ah Tai Hainanese Chicken Rice, where Wong Liang Tai, formerly head cook at Tian Tian for over two decades, continues to impress. This hawker haven is also home to other culinary gems, including Old Nonya, serving up comforting Peranakan classics, and Jin Hua Fish Head Bee Hoon, acclaimed for its exceptional fish soup. The seasoned chefs behind these stalls bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table, ensuring an authentic and delectable dining experience.

Read our article on Maxwell Food Centre .

Discover Golden Mile Food Centre, fondly known as the ‘Beach Road Army Market’ offering an exceptional culinary journey. Located along Beach Road, this bustling food center boasts two levels of delectable food stalls, with the upper floor doubling as a marketplace filled with military-themed merchandise. Seasoned hawkers at the center have honed their culinary skills over the years, showcasing their expertise through a diverse range of dishes. Highlights include 86 Lor Mee’s Signature Lor Mee, topped with crispy fried chicken cutlet, ebi prawns, and more; Chi Le Ma’s value-packed steamed fish sets; the wok hei magic of 91 Fried Kway Teow Mee’s char kway teow; and the sweet conclusion at 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup, featuring handcrafted tang yuan with various fillings. Golden Mile Food Centre guarantees a memorable dining experience for all, promising to satisfy every craving.

Read our article on Golden Mile Food Centre .

Old Airport Road Food Centre, a culinary gem boasting over a hundred stalls, offers a delightful journey through Singapore’s hawker food culture. Visitors can savor renowned classics like Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee’s irresistible prawn noodles and Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow’s aromatic char kway teow, both featured in the Michelin Guide. For a comforting treat, To-Ricos Guo Shi’s rich Kway Chap is a must-try. What sets this place apart is the emergence of innovative newcomers like Minced Pork Bros, who infuse tradition with innovation, and Hei Po Po, known for their indulgent crayfish hor fun. With a vibrant mix of experience and expertise, Old Airport Road Food Centre is a trusted destination where culinary tradition and innovation come together to create memorable dining experiences.

Read our article on Old Airport Road Food Centre .

Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District, Amoy Street Food Centre beckons with a two-storey gastronomic journey. This culinary haven boasts an intriguing fusion of timeless hawker classics and avant-garde creations, all prepared by seasoned artisans who’ve dedicated their lives to perfecting their craft. Diners can savor the rich, authentic flavors of renowned stalls like Han Kee Fish Soup and Hong Kee Beef Noodle, showcasing generations of expertise. For those seeking innovation, Michelin-approved A Noodle Story offers Singapore-style ramen with a twist, while Chun Feng Man Mian tantalizes taste buds with truffle-infused wonton mee. While navigating the bustling peak-hour crowd can be a challenge, the trust earned by this establishment over the years makes every visit worth the culinary adventure.

Read our article on Amoy Street Food Centre .

Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre, with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, is a culinary gem in Singapore. It boasts some of the finest Malay cuisine among hawker centers in the city. At Otak-Otak Kampung, traditional Otak Otak is meticulously crafted with fresh fish chunks, ensuring an authentic taste. For an aromatic journey, Geylang Briyani Stall offers mouthwatering Nasi Briyani, known for its fall-off-the-bone tender mutton and chicken. Meanwhile, Rojak & Mee Siam delights with its Indian Rojak, blending an array of scrumptious ingredients. Complete your gastronomic adventure with a refreshing S$2 bowl of Cendol from Cendol Geylang Serai or indulge in sweet treats like Kueh Salat from Kueh Talam Asli. A visit to this culinary haven promises a flavorful journey through time.

Read our article on Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre .

In the heartlands of Whampoa Drive Food Centre, food enthusiasts can discover a treasure trove of 80 stalls offering beloved hawker classics, prepared with care and affordability in mind. Though the journey to this culinary haven may be a tad long, the reward is an authentic taste of local cuisine, steeped in nostalgia. A standout is Hoover Rojak, a time-tested establishment renowned for its Chinese rojak dating back to the ’60s. Equally delightful are the barbeque chicken wings from Whampoa Barbeque Seafood & Chicken Wing. Other must-tries include the satay bee hoon at Whampoa Satay Bee Hoon and the dark carrot cake at Kim Kee Homemade Carrot Cake, prepared by friendly hawker operators who love a good chat. For a different flavor experience, Rabiah Muslim Food offers an authoritative selection of nasi Melayu dishes, including mutton curry, deep-fried potato, and sambal tempeh tahu, perfect for those seeking authentic Malay cuisine.

Read our article on Whampoa Drive Food Centre and Market .

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores, East Coast Lagoon Food Village beckons with a tempting array of street food delights. Following a leisurely dip in the sea and a day basking on the sandy beaches, visitors can savor piping hot dishes that have garnered trust over the years. This iconic food hub boasts experienced chefs who have perfected their craft, offering expertly prepared treats like satay, sambal stingray, and unique seafood-infused renditions of classics such as fried carrot cake and popiah. With ample seating for larger groups and a reputation as a go-to source for beachside cuisine, East Coast Lagoon Food Village is a must-visit culinary paradise by the sea, where both locals and tourists can relish delectable flavors while taking in the refreshing ocean breeze.

Read our article on East Coast Lagoon Food Village .

In the heart of Geylang Serai lies a culinary gem waiting to be explored: Haig Road Market. Just a short stroll from the bustling wet market, this hawker center stands as a haven for food enthusiasts. Offering a tantalizing array of dishes ranging from traditional Putu Piring, featuring gula Melaka-filled steamed rice flour cakes topped with fresh grated coconut, to the authentic Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee at Lin Yu Mei, this food haven promises a delightful Malaysian culinary journey. For those on a budget, HJ Waliti HJ Mazuki’s mee rebus and aromatic mee soto present wallet-friendly options. Haig Road Market is undoubtedly a food lover’s paradise, beckoning all to savor its rich and diverse flavors.

Read our article on Haig Road Market & Food Centre .

Adam Road Food Centre, while compact, is a treasure trove of halal culinary excellence in Singapore. It boasts a rich heritage of Malay cuisine, featuring renowned stalls like No. 1 Adam’s Nasi Lemak and Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak, both serving up delectable renditions of the beloved nasi lemak. Noteworthy Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded eateries include Bahrakath Mutton Soup, famed for its aromatic soup kambing, and the non-halal Adam Rd Noo Cheng Big Prawn Noodle. Here, visitors can savor the essence of Malay flavors with dishes like nasi lemak, indulge in comforting mutton soup, and relish the bold flavors of prawn mee. Discover a culinary journey where tradition meets innovation at Adam Road Food Centre.

Nestled within the labyrinthine Chinatown Complex, visitors are in for a culinary adventure like no other. Start with a sizzling experience at Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice, where the aromatic delight of claypot rice beckons. For those seeking beef brisket noodle perfection, Fatty Ox HK Kitchen’s expertise shines through in every bowl. Jin Ji Teochew Braised Duck & Kway Chap offers a taste of tradition, with their authentic Teochew flavors. Hong Kong Mong Kok Tim Sum brings the dim sum delights, crafted with finesse. Meanwhile, Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao masters the art of dumplings. These stalls represent just a fraction of the hawker food gems within the complex, where claypot rice, dim sum, and duck rice reign supreme, each a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Singapore.

Read our article on Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre .

Nestled on the second floor of Tiong Bahru Market, the Tiong Bahru Food Centre has become a culinary haven for food lovers. Renowned stalls, such as Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice, offer an array of iconic Singaporean dishes. Loo’s, often hailed as one of Singapore’s finest curry rice destinations, serves up mouthwatering classics that encapsulate the essence of Hainanese cuisine. Zhong Yu Yuan Wei Wanton Noodle stands out with its unique char siew, sourced from a distinctive cut of the pig. This flavorful twist on wanton noodles is a must-try for any visitor. Finally, Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup delivers hearty, comforting flavors that embody the essence of Singaporean culinary tradition. Whether it’s curry rice, wanton mee, or pig’s organ soup, Tiong Bahru Food Centre offers an authentic taste of Singapore that’s not to be missed.

In the heart of Little India lies Tekka Centre, a vibrant hub boasting an array of delectable Indian cuisine. Allauddin’s Briyani stands out as an iconic stall, offering fragrant and flavorful briyani. Haji Johan Indian Muslim Food serves up Indian-style rojak, a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. For crispy prata lovers, Ar-Rahman Cafe and Royal Prata craft delectable delights to savor. Meanwhile, 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodle tempts taste buds with its flavorful broth and succulent prawns, and Heng Gi Goose and Duck Rice impresses with succulent, flavorful duck rice. Though Tekka Market Food Centre is currently undergoing renovations, foodies eagerly await its return, making Tekka Centre a must-visit for Briyani, Prata, and Prawn Mee enthusiasts alike.

Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre may not be a tourist hotspot, but it boasts a rich tapestry of local flavors. At this bustling hawker center, renowned stalls like 63 Laksa offer their signature “Sungei Road-style” dish, a must-try for its unique taste. Guan Kee Fried Kway Teow crafts wok hei-infused char kway teow, while Hin Fried Hor Fun serves up savory, gravy-filled hor fun. For those seeking lighter fare, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh and Teck Hin Delicacies delight with chee kueh and chee cheong fun, respectively. Experience and expertise shine through each dish, prepared by seasoned hawker stall owners with time-honored family recipes. Locals vouch for the authenticity of these flavors, making Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre a trusted destination for Singaporean culinary delights.

Hong Lim Market & Food Centre, a pioneer hawker hub dating back to 1978, offers an authentic culinary journey through Chinatown’s rich gastronomic history. With over 100 food stalls, it caters primarily to the CBD crowd, boasting numerous award-winning establishments. Many of these hawker stalls have honed their craft over decades, ensuring an unparalleled dining experience. Among the standouts is the Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa, renowned for its unique fruit juice mee siam, and Ji Ji Wanton Noodle Specialist, a go-to for delicious fresh prawn dumpling noodles. Trust in the cleanliness, safety, and reliability of these stalls, and the food center’s established reputation as a culinary authority, make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike, embodying the spirit of authentic Chinatown cuisine.

Ayer Rajah Food Centre, while slightly beyond Clementi’s central area, promises a rewarding culinary journey, be it on foot or by bus. This vibrant hawker center boasts an array of Halal delights, from flavorful ayam penyet to savory Indian rojak, comforting mutton soup, and irresistible mee goreng. A standout gem is Habib’s Rojak, a second-generation Indian rojak stall, where patrons can handpick their preferred ingredients from a display case. These are skillfully stir-fried to perfection and served with a delightful sweet dipping sauce. Equally enticing is Hong Kong Soy Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles, renowned for its delectable dumplings and succulent roast meats.

Market Street Food Centre, nestled in CapitaSpring just minutes from Raffles Place MRT, has undergone a remarkable transformation. With 56 stalls and a thoughtful design, it offers a budget-friendly culinary adventure that’s hard to resist. Conveniently located near the touristy Lau Pa Sat, this food haven provides a more economical alternative. Whether it’s the renowned Market Street Nasi Lemak, the quick and delectable Chicken Biryani from Golden Nur, or Ah Liang’s silky Ipoh Hor Fun, there’s a dish to satisfy every palate. These stalls are revered for their culinary expertise, making them a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring the area. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in a variety of delectable options, all under one roof.

Tampines Round Market & Food Centre, an enduring icon in Tampines since its establishment in 1983, remains an integral part of the local community. This bustling culinary hub, accompanied by charming neighboring shophouses, offers a diverse and trustworthy dining experience. Yummy Sarawak Kolo Mee, with over three decades of culinary mastery, boasts an array of delights, including the renowned Sarawak Sibu QQ Spaghetti and exceptional Spare Ribs Chicken Feet Noodle. Meanwhile, Xing Ji garners a devoted following with its expertise in Wanton Noodle, Shredded Chicken Noodle, and Dumpling Soup. Xin Xing Carrot Cake specializes in soft and fluffy Carrot Cake, optionally featuring prawns. For dosa aficionados, Rajarani Thosai serves up tantalizing varieties like Masala and Butter Egg Onion. A visit to this cherished food center promises an authentic and flavorful culinary adventure.

Nestled between Alexandra and Bukit Merah, ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre, a historical hawker hub since 1974, beckons with a diverse culinary adventure. Wow Wow West tempts with wallet-friendly Western cuisine, offering savory Pork Chop and Fish & Chips. Ah Er Herbal Soup, a Michelin Bib Gourmand gem, serves nutritious soups with flavorful pumpkin rice. For dessert lovers, Jin Jin Dessert boasts 44 hot and cold delights, including the irresistible Power Chendol and refreshing Ice Jelly Soursop. Hua Shun Bak Kut Teh satisfies cravings with peppery Bak Kut Teh and pig’s organ soup. And don’t miss the Hong Kong Soy Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle, where soy sauce chicken and tantalizing noodles create a symphony of flavors. Explore the rich tapestry of Singaporean food culture at ABC Brickworks.

Nestled at the eastern end of Singapore, Changi Village Hawker Centre is a cherished destination for early risers and supper aficionados. Two hawker stalls, Mizzy Corner Nasi Lemak and International Muslim Food Stall Nasi Lemak, reign supreme with their exceptional Nasi Lemak Sets. For those craving crispy delights, Million Star Fried Banana offers an array of sinful treats like Fried Tapioca, Fried Sweet Potato, and Fried Banana. A must-try experience awaits at Weng Kee Ipoh Hor Fun, where delectable plates of Chicken Chop Hor Fun and Wanton Noodle await. Hjh Salbiah serves up hearty Nasi Padang, featuring flavorful Nasi Sambal Goreng and Nasi Ambeng dishes. Meanwhile, Hassan Stall takes diners on a nostalgic journey with their kampung-style Mee Rebus and Laksa, offering a memorable culinary adventure rooted in Singapore’s rich culinary traditions.

Read our article on Changi Village Hawker Centre .

Bedok 85 Fengshan Food Centre, a beloved supper destination in the East, stands out for its diverse array of barbecued delicacies like savory satay, crispy chicken wings, and delectable stingray. Amid its fame, the hawker center hosts a captivating culinary showdown – the bak chor mee rivalry between Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian and Seng Hiang Bak Chor Mee, drawing food enthusiasts from across Singapore. For those craving satay bee hoon, Shi Wei Da serves up plates of pure delight. While the search for the best Dry Laksa ended at Omage Foods, be sure to arrive before 2pm to savor this delight. Don’t miss the chance to relish hotplate BBQ stingray at Chomp Chomp BBQ or a comforting bowl of porridge from Chai Chee Pork Porridge. With years of exploration and expertise, this culinary enthusiast guarantees a delectable food journey at Bedok 85 Fengshan Food Centre.

Lau Pa Sat, originally Singapore’s inaugural wet market, underwent a remarkable transformation in 1972, evolving into an iconic hawker center that now symbolizes the city’s culinary heritage and architectural history. It has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists, offering an array of must-try dishes, including succulent satay skewers, fragrant Hainanese chicken rice from Fragrance Garden Chicken Rice, and smoky hokkien mee from Golden Shoe Hokkien Mee. Beyond its culinary delights, Lau Pa Sat’s architecture, influenced by the Victorian era, adds a unique charm, while its historical significance and numerous accolades further underscore its cultural importance. Visitors not only savor tradition but also step into the heart of Singapore’s culinary soul, making Lau Pa Sat an essential stop for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The renowned Newton Food Centre, a top choice for tourists, owes its fame not only to its appearance in Crazy Rich Asians but also to its acclaimed stalls. Among them, Heng Carrot Cake and Alliance Seafood have earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand award, while Soon Wah Fishball Kway Teow Mee boasts consistently long queues. This hawker haven, steeped in tradition and culinary expertise, presents an array of delectable options, including savory carrot cake, flavorful fishball noodles, and enticing zi char dishes. With a history deeply rooted in the hawker food culture, Newton Food Centre continues to draw visitors seeking an authentic taste of Singaporean street food.

As you embark on your culinary adventure in Singapore, don’t forget to explore the hawker centres mentioned in this guide. Each one has its own unique charm and offers a delectable array of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re craving Chinese classics, Western delights, Muslim specialties, or Indian flavors, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite at these hawker centres. So, step into the vibrant world of Singaporean street food, immerse yourself in the local culture, and savor the affordable and mouthwatering dishes that make our hawker centres a food lover’s paradise. And remember, while these are some of the best, there are countless other hidden gems waiting to be explored, so don’t hesitate to embark on your own makan adventures to discover your personal favorites!

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20 Best Hawker Centres in Singapore With Delicious Local Food (2024)

Discover vibrant hawker centres with Singaporean food culture, featuring the best hawker stalls and food courts in Singapore. Experience authentic Singaporean food, including nasi lemak, at top-rated hawker centers, celebrating hawker culture.

Updated on October 30, 2023 

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✅ Our team is dedicated to provide helpful reviews on the best places for you to choose! ✅ We research and rate the places based on factors such as features , pricing , quality , services and popularity .

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Hawker Centres Singapore

Are you a culinary enthusiast in Singapore looking for delectable regional dishes? You don’t need to go any farther since we have put together a list of the top hawker centers that will satiate your appetite and leave you wanting more.

We adore these hawker centers because they provide a wide selection of mouthwatering and reasonably priced food to satisfy every taste. These hawker centers serve cuisine for everyone, whether you like spicy food or prefer something milder.

Additionally, they are strategically placed all across Singapore, making it simple for you to have a delectable meal anytime you’re in the city. The greatest thing is that visiting these centers is an excellent opportunity to get a taste of Singapore’s diverse food scene.

Why then wait? Start dining on the amazing delicacies at these hawker centers right away by diving into our list!

What To Look For in a Hawker Centres in Singapore

• Variety: Singapore’s hawker centres provide a wide variety of excellent food! To fulfill your cravings and try new flavors, choose a hawker center with a decent mix of local and international cuisine. Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, and Char Kway Teow are must-eats.
• Accessibility and Location: Pick a hawker center that’s close to public transit and walking. This saves time and improves your meal. Bonus points if the hawker centre is in a lively neighborhood that offers wonderful sightseeing and shopping before or after your lunch!
• Singapore’s hawker centres are clean and hygienic. It’s still important to find a well-maintained center that follows NEA criteria. Each booth has an NEA cleanliness rating from A (highest) to D (poor).
• Affordability: Hawker centres serve tasty meals at low rates! To obtain the greatest deal, compare hawker centre pricing. Some booths only accept cash, so bring some.
• Finally, examine the hawker center’s atmosphere and seats. Choose a bustling restaurant to experience the local culture. Comfortable seats and plenty of room are also important, especially during peak meal times when the center might grow busy.

Best Hawker Centres in Singapore (2024)

Our team of experts have researched and curated a list of the best Hawker Centres in Singapore . Our list of recommendations are based on ours and others' first-hand experience, so it will be helpful for you! Let's not wait and get to it!

🏆 Best Overall

Maxwell Food Centre

• Savor the authentic flavors of Singapore at the bustling Chinatown hawker centre, featuring famous chicken rice and dim sum stands!

Changi Village Hawker Centre

• Feast on a variety of mouthwatering dishes at no-frills food stands, including nasi lemak rice, fried bananas, and satay, while enjoying the lively atmosphere and communal seating!

Best Classic Option

Old Airport Road Food Centre

• Exciting variety of local dishes: From noodle soups and stir-fries to curries and dumplings, satisfy your cravings at this bustling indoor hawker center!

1. Maxwell Food Centre

With a plethora of options and reasonable prices, you’ll get a true taste of local cuisine at Maxwell Food Centre. Not only is the food delicious, but the centre is kept clean, making for a pleasant dining experience.

You’ll love the famous chicken rice from Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and the variety of fritters and local sausages at China Street Fritters. For something different, try Zhen Zhen Porridge’s pork congee or raw fish.

As a tourist in Singapore, visiting Maxwell Food Centre is a must because it offers an incredible opportunity to taste and enjoy the best of Singaporean cuisine in a vibrant, bustling setting.

What We Like

• Indulge in a multitude of mouthwatering choices at popular restaurants and food stalls, all reasonably priced and in a clean environment.
• Experience the local food culture as a tourist in Singapore, making memories while trying tasty dishes from various vendors.
• Don’t miss the renowned Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice stall, where you can enjoy their specialty dish packed with authentic local flavors.
• Treat your taste buds to China Street Fritters and Zhen Zhen Porridge, offering delicious options like deep-fried prawn fritters, ngoh hiang, and various congee dishes.

Testimonial

“Great food and drink stall options. Prices are reasonable, and the place is kept very clean. I had rendang chicken with rice, which was delicious.”

2. Changi Village Hawker Centre

A fantastic place to satiate your hunger with a broad range of inexpensive and delectable food alternatives is Changi Village Hawker Centre. You’ll adore the wide variety, which includes halal Indian, seafood from Thailand, Indonesia, and more. Weekend trips to this well-liked location are recommended because it’s ideal for both visitors and residents.

You will adore the hygienic facilities in addition to the tantalizing cuisine options. Charlie’s Corner, which serves hearty Western cuisine, Ho Guan, which specializes in authentic satay bee hoon, and the International Muslim Food Stall, which serves delicious nasi lemak, are a few of the notable vendors.

• Satisfy your cravings with diverse food options such as halal Indian, Thai seafood, chippy, Indonesian, and more – all at wallet-friendly prices!
• Located in a bustling tourist hotspot, join avid cyclists and enthusiastic tourists in exploring the vibrant culinary scene at Changi Village Hawker Centre.
• Make weekends extra special by relishing delicious Western food and refreshing beers at Charlie’s Corner, famous for their fish and chips and namesake burger!
• Indulge in the ever-so-rare satay bee hoon at Ho Guan, lovingly prepared by a couple who has been serving this traditional dish for over four decades, using homemade sauce and fresh ingredients.

“My hotel was 2 minutes’ walk from this gem. For every 5 stalls, there is a halal stall. Had different varieties of food, from halal Indian to Thai seafood, chippy, Indonesian, and many more. It is also cheap and affordable. I definitely recommend this for local food.”

3. Old Airport Road Food Centre

At Old Airport Road Food Centre, you’ll be delighted by the variety of delicious local dishes, perfect for satisfying your cravings and introducing your overseas friends to Singapore’s hawker culture. With numerous popular stalls like Albert Street Prawn Noodles and Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow, you can enjoy mouthwatering prawn noodles, char kway teow, and more, all under one roof.

You’ll love the lively atmosphere and the friendly competition between vendors, as it allows you to compare and find your favorite version of each dish. Because of its extensive selection and authentic local vibe, this hawker centre is definitely worth a visit!

• Must-try food stalls: Don’t miss out on mouthwatering prawn noodles and pork ribs noodles at Albert Street Prawn Noodles, and the flavorful char kway teow at Lucky Char Kuey Tiao!
• Perfect for visitors: Introduce your overseas friends to Singapore’s rich hawker culture and authentic local food at this popular food center.
• Taste and compare: With numerous vendors offering their unique takes on classic dishes, you can sample and decide which is your favorite version!
• Immerse yourself in local atmosphere: Join the crowds of Singaporeans enjoying breakfast or lunch at this lively hawker center, truly a must-visit destination for food lovers!

“I love the Whitley Road prawn noodles and have been patronising their stall for many years.”

4. Tiong Bahru Food Centre

You may discover a vibrant and varied assortment of Singaporean hawker stalls serving delectable foods like roasted duck rice and Hainanese chicken rice at Tiong Bahru Food Centre. You’ll like the wide selection of meals available in this spacious, well-lit setting, all at affordable pricing.

Everyone may visit the food center easily because it is handicap accessible and close to the Havelock MRT Station. We savored the assortment of Indian, Chinese, and Malay dishes as well as the various vendors’ established reputations. In a pleasant and comfortable setting, it’s a terrific place to sample real Singaporean food.

• Savor mouthwatering dishes at popular stalls like Lee Hong Kee Cantonese Roasted, Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice, and 178 Lor Mee!
• Enjoy a lively food court experience in an airy, well-lit space with plenty of seating for a comfortable dining adventure.
• Discover a fantastic variety of affordable local Chinese, Malay, and Indian delicacies under one roof.
• Easily accessible for everyone, including wheelchair users, and a short walk from Havelock MRT Station and the bus stop on the main road.
• Don’t miss the chance to explore the wet market on the same building, offering fresh produce, meat, and fish for a complete Singaporean experience!

“Love the variety of food there! And a reasonable price too! Wheelchair accessibility: Tables allow wheelchairs to slot in easily without having the need to get up.”

5. ABC Brickworks

At ABC Brickworks, you’ll be delighted by the diverse range of food options catering to every palate. From sausages and steaks to traditional treats and iconic dishes, this hawker center has it all. We particularly love Bao Zai’s char siu bao, Fatty Cheong’s fresh char siu and wanton, and Jason Penang Cuisine’s hearty Malaysian dishes.

You’ll love the mix of old and new stalls, making it an affordable and exciting place to dine with friends and family. The best part? The hawker center is clean, tidy, and well-maintained, with friendly vendors who are eager to serve you.

• Feast on diverse food options: From sizzling sausages to traditional chye tow kway, satisfy your cravings with a variety of mouth-watering dishes!
• Must-try food stalls: Don’t miss out on the best sellers at Bao Zai, Fatty Cheong, and Jason Penang Cuisine, offering unique and flavorsome bites!
• Old meets new: Enjoy a mix of classic, well-established food stalls and exciting newcomers, catering to every taste bud.
• Affordable indulgence: Experience top-notch dining with the best facilities, without breaking the bank.
• Impeccable ambience: Relish your meal in a clean, tidy environment with friendly and approachable vendors.

“So many delicious local dishes that you will be spoiled for choice.”

6. Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre

Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre is a culinary haven in Singapore, offering a variety of delicious dishes that cater to different tastes. With its vast selection of vendors, you can indulge in traditional favorites like Sin Chew Satay Bee Hoon or explore modern options like pasta. We love that you can satisfy your cravings for authentic hawker food, such as Hainanese chicken rice and chendol, all in one place.

The convenient location, directly accessible via MRT Beauty World station, makes it an ideal spot for a quick meal or a leisurely feast. Plus, the affordability and option to order through Deliveroo and Foodpanda make it even more enticing.

• Over 80 diverse vendors: Indulge in a wide variety of traditional and modern cuisines, including Sin Chew Satay Bee Hoon and mouthwatering pasta dishes!
• Must-try stalls: Savor the flavors of 138 Kway Chap & Porridge, Chin Hock Mutton Soup, and Curry On for a truly authentic hawker experience.
• Famous dishes galore: Discover the best of Singapore’s hawker scene with favorites like Hainanese chicken rice, satay, carrot cake, fishball noodles, and more.
• Unbeatable location: Easily accessible via MRT Beauty World station, making it a breeze to enjoy a delicious meal at Bukit Timah Market & Food Centre.
• Delivery options: Craving some hawker goodness at home? Order through Deliveroo and Foodpanda for a convenient, tasty treat!

“A pleasant eating place for hawker center goers with a myriad of food choices. Worth a visit.”

7. Golden Mile Food Center

At Golden Mile Food Centre, you’ll find an incredible variety of mouth-watering local dishes like wanton mee, Hokkien mee, and curry noodles. We particularly enjoyed Charlie’s Peranakan for their impressive Peranakan dishes, Chef Choo Signature for their delightful Sizzling Seafood Spaghetti, and Choon Kee Roasted Delights for their delicious roast meats.

Because of the extensive selection of food spread across two floors, you will never run out of options, including unique finds like mango pudding and gourmet burgers . Plus, the prices are reasonable, and the stall owners are friendly and informative, making your dining experience even better.

• Feast on a variety of local dishes at the Golden Mile Food Centre, with favorites like wanton mee, Hokkien mee, and curry noodles!
• Indulge in authentic Peranakan cuisine at Charlie’s Peranakan, featuring mouthwatering dishes such as Babi Assam and Bakwan Kepiting.
• Savor a scrumptious seafood experience at Chef Choo Signature with their perfectly-cooked Sizzling Seafood Spaghetti, rich in flavor and texture!
• Explore the delicious roast meat classics at Choon Kee Roasted Delights, from delectable Roasted Pork to succulent Char Siu and Roasted Duck meat.
• Enjoy a fantastic food adventure in this huge, two-story hawker center with a wide selection of high-quality dishes, friendly stall owners, and reasonable pricing!

“You will be spoiled for choice in this food centre. Plenty of choice to choose from. Keng Heng whampoa lor mee, Ah xiao braised duck rice, Thai chicken rice, etc.”

8. Hong Lim Market & Food Centre

You may experience Singapore’s bustling hawker culture at Hong Lim Market & Food Centre while savoring a delectable selection of genuine Chinese foods at reasonable pricing.

The market is an excellent place for people-watching because it is constantly crowded with both residents and tourists. There is accessible multi-story parking, so you won’t have any problem locating a space.

We really enjoy Heng Kee Curry Chicken Bee Hoon Mee, Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa, and Ji Ji Wanton Noodle Specialist among the wide variety of food booths. Lean wonton noodles and fruit juice mee siam are just two examples of the delectable, premium foods that these shops sell.

• Savor the deliciousness of Singaporean dishes at this bustling market, featuring mouthwatering wonton soup, laksa, and fried noodles!
• Indulge in Ji Ji Wanton Noodle Specialist’s lean and smooth pork filling, setting the standard with only 2% fat compared to other stalls’ 60%!
• Get a taste of Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa’s unique and creamy Asia Delight Laksa and intriguing Fruit Juice Mee Siam!
• Immerse yourself in the authentic hawker culture in Singapore, enjoying cheap and tasty eats alongside locals, students, and tourists!
• No need to worry about parking – a multi-storey parking building is conveniently located right next to the food center!

“Good food tastes better than restaurant food, and the price is reasonable for families. Old folks enjoy the local and intangible surroundings.”

9. Whampoa Food Centre

You may get lots of wonderful, real local cuisine at Whampoa cuisine Centre for reasonable pricing. You’ll never run out of alternatives with two sections devoted to breakfast and lunch or dinner.

The savory Singapore Fried Hokkien Mee, the distinctive Balestier Road Hoover Rojak, and the Teochew staple, Liang Zhao Ji Duck Rice, are among foods you just must taste.

This hawker center has excellent customer service and spotless facilities, which enhance the eating experience. With their SOP, you can anticipate a seamless and well-planned lunch that makes sure you have everything you need.

• Feast on the best of Singapore’s local cuisine at Whampoa Hawker Centre, featuring separate sections for breakfast and lunch/dinner crowds.
• Indulge in the famous Singapore Fried Hokkien Mee, a flavorful dish with a unique twist of thick bee hoon and plenty of minced garlic.
• Experience the multi-time Bib Gourmand recipient Balestier Road Hoover Rojak, featuring delicious traditional add-ons like century egg and jellyfish.
• Savor Liang Zhao Ji Duck Rice, another Bib Gourmand awardee, offering one of the best Teochew braised duck rice dishes in Singapore.
• Explore hundreds of food stalls offering a wide variety of affordable, high-quality local dishes, like oyster omelette and sugar cane drinks, perfect for adventurous food hunters.

“Wide variety of delicious, authentic local food at affordable prices. two cooked food centers, one for the morning crowd while the other operates after noon. Clean toilets. But limited halal food stalls.”

10. Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market & Hawker Centre

You’ll be pleased with a superb choice of local delicacies and cuisines from over 80 food sellers at Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market & Food Centre. Delicious yong tau foo, bak chor mee, nasi briyani, as well as Vietnamese and Thai food , are available. For a filling supper , we especially suggest eating the Hai Kee Noodle, Wanted Western Delights, and Sin Sin Prawn Crackers.

The hawker center has a lot of roomy seats that makes it possible for you to eat comfortably. You won’t have to stress about going broke in order to enjoy a delectable feast because the rates are so affordable. A nice eating experience is provided by the spotless, well-lit, and spacious surroundings.

• Savor the amazing flavors of Singapore at Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market & Food Centre, with a diverse range of regional specialties like yong tau foo, bak chor mee, and nasi briyani!
• Explore an exciting mix of international dishes from Vietnam and Thailand among the 80 food vendors at this bustling hawker center!
• Don’t miss the scrumptious offerings from recommended stalls like Hai Kee Noodle, Wanted Western Delights, and Sin Sin Prawn Crackers!
• Enjoy a comfortable dining experience with plenty of well-spaced seating, a clean and well-lit environment, and great crowd behavior!
• Get the best bang for your buck with reasonably priced dishes, perfect for a fun and delicious meal for the whole family!

“Lots of good food and economical meals available.”

11. Chomp Chomp Food Centre

At Chomp Chomp Food Centre, you’ll find a vibrant array of delicious street food that will excite your taste buds! With popular stalls like Ah Hock Hokkien Noodles and Ang Mo Kio Carrot Cake, you’ll enjoy authentic Singaporean dishes that are both affordable and satisfying. If you’re a seafood lover, Lucy BBQ Seafood is a must-visit for their BBQ stingray and squid.

We love how Chomp Chomp offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for you to bring friends and family, including tourists. The cleanliness and constant buzz of activity only add to its charm.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it there in person, because you can still treat yourself by ordering through Deliveroo or Foodpanda.

• Taste the authentic flavors of Singapore with a wide variety of street food options at the bustling Chomp Chomp hawker center!
• Savor the delicious Ah Hock Hokkien Noodles and the mouth-watering Ang Mo Kio Carrot Cake, highly recommended by food enthusiasts!
• Indulge in the irresistible BBQ Seafood from Lucy BBQ, with must-try dishes like BBQ stingray, BBQ squid, sambal chili, sambal Kang Kong, and green dragon vegetables!
• Experience the chill vibe, cleanliness, and constant buzz of excitement at Chomp Chomp, making it a perfect destination for tourists and locals alike!
• Enjoy the amazing and affordable food from Chomp Chomp in the comfort of your own home by ordering through Deliveroo or Foodpanda!

“Delicious food with many choices in this hawker center.”

12. Upper Boon Keng Market & Food Centre

At Upper Boon Keng Market & Food Centre, one of Singapore’s oldest hawker centres, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious and affordable traditional dishes. Because of its diverse offerings, this hawker centre will satisfy everyone’s taste buds, making it perfect for you and your friends.

You’ll love the rich and flavorful kambing soup from Haji M. Abdul Rajak and the light and airy appams. The halal food options like Prata, Nasi Sambal Goreng, and Mee Goreng Mamak will delight you, and the authentic Thai food stall adds a unique touch to the overall experience.

The convenience of ordering through Foodpanda makes it even easier for you to enjoy these tasty dishes.

• Savor Singapore’s rich culinary heritage at one of its oldest hawker centres, featuring mouth-watering dishes like kambing soup, ayam penyet, and curry rice!
• Indulge in the most scrumptious Halal food options, from Prata to Nasi Sambal Goreng, Mee Goreng Mamak, and the must-try Soup Kambing from Haji M. Abdul Rajak!
• Delight your taste buds with the incredibly airy appams at APPAM stall, or satisfy your cravings with a delicious plate of Fried Kway Teow from Hock Huat!
• Discover a hidden gem in this hawker centre, offering tantalizing Hainanese curry chicken rice, braised pork belly, and more!
• Craving authentic Thai food? You’re in luck! Order from the excellent Thai food stall through Foodpanda and enjoy a fantastic meal!

“Extremely good food and drinks. Very affordable.”

13. Pek Kio Market & Food Centre

Pek Kio Market & Food Centre offers a wide variety of delicious food at affordable prices, making it a fantastic choice for you to explore Singapore’s hawker scene. The spacious and well-ventilated environment adds to the overall dining experience.

The Michelin Plate stall, Pin Wei Chee Cheong Fun, is a must-try because of their smooth and delicious Hong Kong-style dishes. Heng Leong Carrot Cake also stands out as they make their own carrot cakes, a rarity in today’s fast-paced world. Lastly, don’t miss out on Sheng Seng Fried Prawn Noodle, another Michelin Plate stall offering tasty Hokkien mee that won’t break the bank.

• Feast on Michelin Plate-winning dishes: Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Pin Wei Chee Cheong Fun and Sheng Seng Fried Prawn Noodle, two award-winning stalls offering exceptional taste at unbeatable prices!
• Indulge in authentic homemade carrot cake: Savor the scrumptiousness of Heng Leong Carrot Cake, one of the few places still making their own radish cake from scratch – don’t miss their delicious black and white versions!
• Experience a diverse range of cuisines: With a majority of Chinese stalls and a handful of Indian ones, prepare to be spoilt for choice with the delightful variety of dishes available!
• Enjoy great value with CDC vouchers: Save on your meal with select stores accepting CDC vouchers, giving you even more reasons to indulge in the amazing food!
• Dine in comfort: Appreciate the spacious, well-ventilated food centre, offering a perfect environment to enjoy your favorite local dishes at affordable prices!

“An airy food centre with lots of delicious food at great prices. Most of the stalls are open from morning until afternoon.”

14. Geylang Bahru Market and Food Centre

We appreciate the presence of vendors like Hua Ji Carrot Cake, Fucheng Shiping Homemade Spring Roll, and Hui Wei Chilli Ban Mian at the Geylang Bahru Market and Food Centre since these foods are all well regarded for their mouthwatering and distinctive flavors.

You’ll appreciate the spotless and well-kept surroundings, which will make your eating experience even more pleasant. The ease of utilizing Net-Pay for purchases, which guarantees a secure and sanitary payment mechanism, is another fantastic benefit. It is now more large and comfortable thanks to recent renovations, and everyone can visit it simply thanks to its close proximity to the MRT.

• Feast on a wide range of mouthwatering cuisine options, from local specialties to international favourites at this bustling food centre
• Don’t miss out on Hua Ji Carrot Cake’s irresistible White Carrot Cake with extra chilli, featuring crispy bites and a generous dose of sambal chilli
• Join the loyal fanbase of Fucheng Shiping Homemade Spring Roll for their scrumptious and affordable Popiah and Kueh Pie Tee
• Spice up your meal with Hui Wei Chilli Ban Mian’s Signature Chilli Ban Mian, complete with al dente noodles, minced meat, and a side of chilli
• Enjoy a well-maintained, clean, and spacious dining experience, conveniently within walking distance to the MRT and offering Net-Pay for a cashless, germ-free transaction

“I love the atmosphere here. Carrot Kueh Wah Kee Hawker. A small cup of coffee is also sold for seven or eight cents. All can be scanned with Net-Pay. There is no need to move money or bacteria.”

15. Blk 75 Lorong 5 Toa Payoh Food Centre

We adore the smokey flavor of Cockle Fried Kway Teow and the crispy pork fat at Blk 75 Lorong 5 Toa Payoh Food Centre, and Da Ji Hainanese Chicken Rice’s fried chicken wings with their addicting chilli sauce. Don’t overlook Fang Yuan Satay’s delicious and flavorful pork satay!

This hawker complex, which is as ancient as Toa Payoh itself, provides a nostalgic experience for people who grew up in the region. You’ll like the variety of Chinese and Malay meals on offer, as well as the clean setting and excellent assortment of local food and beverages. Furthermore, many booths stay open late, making it ideal for a late-night supper.

• Savor the irresistible smoky flavor of Cockle Fried Kway Teow, complete with crunchy pork lard for an unforgettable taste experience!
• Indulge in Da Ji Hainanese Chicken Rice’s famous fried chicken wings, perfect with their addictive chili sauce for a spicy twist!
• Treat your taste buds to Fang Yuan Satay’s mouth-watering pork satay, grilled to perfection over a charcoal fire for ultimate flavor!
• Enjoy a plethora of food options, including Muslim stalls and Chinese desserts, at this nostalgic and clean hawker center that stays open late!
• Discover an excellent selection of local food and drink choices, even after 10 p.m., making it the perfect spot for late-night cravings!

“There’s a lot of nice food there. I recommend the Chaoyang Prawn Noodle stall, the Toa Payoh Hot Plate BBQ Fish stall, and the Kim Western stall.”

16. Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre

The Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre showcases Singapore’s unique street food culture, with a majority of Chinese stalls and a mix of Thai, Western, and Japanese dishes. You’ll love the delicious and satisfying dishes like Ikan Bilis Bee Hoon, steamed dumplings, and soy sauce chicken rice.

The Chinatown Complex is conveniently located, with parking available and the Chinatown MRT station just a short walk away. What particularly impressed us was the Michelin-starred stall serving chicken rice, and the chance to taste some soon-to-be-lost old Chinese and local recipes.

• Feast on delicious local cuisine at affordable prices, including must-try dishes like fried fish cake, steamed dumplings, and soya sauce chicken rice!
• Experience Singapore’s unique hawker centre food culture, akin to street food markets in other countries, with an array of tantalizing options.
• Discover a diverse mix of cuisines, from Chinese and Thai food stalls to Western and Japanese dishes, all in one vibrant location.
• Don’t miss the chance to taste Michelin-starred chicken rice and savor soon-to-be-lost old Chinese and local recipes.
• Enjoy easy access with nearby parking and Chinatown MRT train station just a short walk away.

“A great hawker centre serving an assortment of local cuisine at an affordable price. Many stalls are worth trying, especially those with long queues! Parking is available in the same building on the upper floors. Chinatown MRT train station (Blue and Purple lines) is within a short walking distance. Highly recommended!”

17. Sims Vista Market & Food Centre

At Sims Vista Market & Food Centre, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious and affordable dishes just minutes from Aljunied MRT Station. We love how the hawker centre offers diverse options like Green Chilli Chicken Rice, Nain Food Stall’s Nasi Padang, and Hollywood Duck Rice. The flavors are so addictive, you’ll keep coming back for more!

You’ll also find Jia Confectionery, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with their kueh bahulu and pineapple tarts . The spacious and well-ventilated environment makes it an excellent spot for a satisfying lunch. Because of the multitude of food choices and reasonable prices, you’ll definitely want to visit Sims Vista Market & Food Centre.

• Just a short walk from Aljunied MRT Station: Sims Vista Market and Food Centre offers a convenient location for a mouthwatering meal adventure!
• Indulge in diverse culinary delights: From Cantonese-style duck rice to Malay and Chinese seafood dishes, vegetarian options, and more – there’s something for every palate!
• Must-try food stalls: Get your taste buds tingling with the addictive Green Chilli Chicken Rice, satisfying nasi padang from Nain Food Stall, and flavorful duck dishes at Hollywood Duck Rice.
• Don’t forget dessert: Swing by Jia Confectionery for scrumptious kueh bahulu and pineapple tarts to satisfy your sweet tooth!
• Enjoy a spacious and well-ventilated dining experience: With ample seating and a wide variety of affordable, delicious food choices, Sims Vista Market and Food Centre is the perfect spot for a satisfying lunch outing!

“I toured the centre and decided on the fish soup stall, #01-21. Fish soup was outstanding, as its side sauce, garlic with lime juice, opened up my appetite.”

18. Telok Blangah Crescent Market & Food Centre

At Telok Blangah Crescent Market & Food Centre, you’ll be delighted by the variety of delicious street food options that cater to your taste buds and wallet. We love Su Yuan Vegetarian’s Bee Hoon, which is packed with flavors from chewy mushrooms, tasty char siew, and crunchy cabbage. Xiang Ji Porridge adds a burst of flavor with spring onions and shallots, while Guan Seng Carrot Cake stands out by adding dark soy sauce to their White Carrot Cake.

The lively atmosphere, coupled with the fresh air and greenery, adds to the overall dining experience. You’ll be pleased with the cleanliness as patrons return trays and keep tables and chairs tidy.

• Feast on a wide variety of affordable, scrumptious street food at this medium-sized hawker centre – satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank!
• Dive into Su Yuan Vegetarian’s Bee Hoon, featuring mouth-watering mushrooms, vegetarian char siew, and crunchy cabbage – a delightful start to your meal!
• Warm your soul with Xiang Ji Porridge’s comforting blend, enhanced by spring onion and shallot toppings – a perfect comfort food!
• Experience the unique White Carrot Cake from Guan Seng Carrot Cake, with a twist of dark soy sauce for an extra flavor boost – a must-try dish!
• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and lush greenery as you dine, all while appreciating the fair cleanliness and hygienic practices at this bustling hawker centre!

“I’ve been patronising this market and hawker center since the 80s.”

19. Commonwealth Crescent Market and Food Centre

At Commonwealth Crescent Market and Food Centre, the Hong Kee Porridge stall serves comforting Cantonese-style porridge, which has been their specialty for over four decades. We love the smooth and flavorful Pork Porridge with Century Egg and Fish Head Porridge.

For a unique snack, try Milah Hokkaido Curry Puff, offering four scrumptious flavors of curry puffs. You won’t want to miss their Potato, Sardine, Mentaiko Cheese, and Cinnamon Banana options.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional desserts from Xi Le Ting, where a lovely granny has been using the same recipes for nearly 50 years. Choose from green bean soup, red bean soup, cheng tng, and sweet wheat porridge – all served hot.

• Savor the ultimate comfort food at Hong Kee Porridge, serving delicious Cantonese-style porridge for over four decades!
• Snack on unique and mouth-watering curry puff flavors at Milah Hokkaido Curry Puff, including Potato, Sardine, Mentaiko Cheese, and Cinnamon Banana.
• Indulge in traditional, homey desserts at Xi Le Ting, made by a granny who’s been perfecting her recipes for almost 50 years.
• Enjoy a diverse selection of Hong Kong-style dishes, all at a reasonable price, in a welcoming environment with friendly people.
• No parking woes! Find ample parking spaces while you explore the local delights at this amazing hawker centre.

“There is nice hawker food available there. I like the Cantonese porridge stall.”

20. Blk 4A Jalan Batu Hawker Centre

At the Blk 4A Jalan Batu Hawker Centre in Singapore, not only do the dishes taste amazing, but their affordable prices make it a great place for a satisfying meal.

Because of the diverse food stalls, you can try various dishes like the Tanjong Rhu Wanton Noodle, Feng Ji Kway Chap, and Wang Lao Wu Chicken King set meal. These dishes offer mouth-watering flavors that cater to different preferences, making it an ideal spot for friends and family to dine together.

What we love about this hawker centre is its cleanliness and tidy environment, which add to the overall dining experience.

• Savor the mouth-watering Tanjong Rhu Wanton Noodle with its juicy, tasty wantons and perfectly seasoned noodles, topped with delicious char siu!
• Indulge in a flavorful Feng Ji Kway Chap set, featuring a mix of pig skin, braised eggs, pork belly, tau pok, and beancurd for a scrumptious feast!
• Treat yourself to a Wang Lao Wu Chicken King set meal, complete with succulent steamed white chicken, fresh vegetables in oyster sauce, rice, and a comforting bowl of soup!
• Discover a hidden gem for amazing hawker food, offering great value for money and a clean, neat, and tidy environment!
• Explore the small yet diverse hawker center, with a fantastic combination of stalls catering to a variety of taste buds!

“Wanton noodle (soup version) from Kim Kee (#01-18) was a very satisfying lunch. A bowl of yummy wanton, nice flavorful soup, and springy noodles.“

More Info On Hawker Centres in Singapore

What is a hawker center.

You may be wondering what these bustling street food hotspots involve and how they’ve become such an important part of the city’s culinary landscape.

In Singapore, a hawker centre is simply a big, open-air complex that has multiple food vendors serving a broad range of economical and tasty local cuisine.

These centers are not just popular with visitors, but they are also an important part of many locals’ daily lives since they allow quick and easy access to a varied selection of foods that reflect Singapore’s cosmopolitan community.

Hawker culture is firmly ingrained in Singaporean culinary culture, with generations of families operating their stalls side by side, making it the ideal spot to sample real local cuisines all under one roof.

Why Is Singapore Hawker Center So Special?

Imagine entering a busy, lively food paradise where beautiful fragrances and tantalizing sensations combine to create an extraordinary gourmet experience like no other.

That’s what you’ll discover in Singapore’s hawker centres, which are unique in that they reflect the heart and spirit of Singapore’s food culture. These open-air complexes are home to a variety of vendors selling a broad variety of local foods at reasonable costs, making them accessible to everybody.

What distinguishes the Singapore hawker center is its designation by UNESCO as an intangible cultural asset, emphasizing its significance in maintaining and promoting the city-state’s various culinary traditions.

When you visit a hawker centre in Singapore, you’re not just getting wonderful cuisine; you’re also getting a taste of the country’s rich cultural tapestry.

What Is The Most Popular Hawker Food In Singapore?

It’s tough to pinpoint just one dish as the most popular hawker food in Singapore, as locals and tourists alike can’t get enough of the mouthwatering variety of dishes available at these bustling culinary havens. The beauty of Singapore hawker centres is that they offer a melting pot of flavors, representing the rich cultural diversity of this island nation.

Some may argue that certain dishes stand out as quintessential Singaporean fare, but ultimately, it’s up to your taste buds to decide.

• Hainanese Chicken Rice : This fragrant and flavorful dish is often hailed as Singapore’s national dish—tender poached chicken accompanied by aromatic rice cooked in chicken stock and pandan leaves.
• Laksa : A spicy noodle soup with Chinese-Malay origins, featuring thick rice noodles in a rich coconut curry broth laced with shrimp paste and topped with prawns, fish cake slices, and bean sprouts.
• Chilli Crab : A must-try for seafood lovers visiting any food market in Singapore; this iconic dish features succulent crab stir-fried in a sweet-spicy tomato-chilli sauce best enjoyed when mopped up with fried mantou buns.

It’s clear that there are countless options when it comes to satisfying your cravings at Singapore hawker centres—making it impossible to choose just one most popular hawker food—but these three dishes should definitely be on your list!

What Are Some Top Tips For Eating At A Hawker Centre?

Navigating the crowded food booths and delicious fragrances at a hawker centre may be a thrilling experience, but there are a few guidelines to follow to make the most of your gastronomic trip.

To begin, conduct some research on the finest hawker centres in Singapore to select one that fits your preferences and budget.

Take a trip around the entire food court before picking what to eat; this way, you’ll have a fair understanding of all the meals offered and won’t miss out on any hidden treasures.

Look for lengthy crowds and locals dining at hawker stalls when deciding where to dine, since this is typically a sign of high-quality cuisine.

Don’t be hesitant to ask fellow diners or stall owners for ideas or assistance with ordering – they’ll be pleased to share their favorites with you.

Finally, bring cash for payment because many booths do not take credit cards, and keep in mind that patience is essential when waiting for your great lunch!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Check out some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hawker Centres in Singapore .

Are There Any Vegetarian Or Vegan Options Available At Singapore Hawker Centres?

Absolutely! You’ll find numerous vegetarian and vegan options available at Singapore hawker centres. Many stalls cater specifically to these dietary preferences, offering a wide variety of dishes such as noodles, rice dishes, soups, and even plant-based versions of popular local favorites like laksa or curry. Additionally, you can also customize your meal by requesting the stall vendor to omit any non-vegetarian ingredients from their regular offerings. So rest assured that you can enjoy delicious and affordable plant-based meals while exploring the diverse culinary scene in Singapore’s hawker centres.

What Are The Typical Operating Hours Of Hawker Centres In Singapore?

In general, hawker centres in Singapore typically operate from early morning, around 6 or 7 am, until late at night, with some closing around 10 pm while others stay open even later. However, individual stalls within hawker centres may have their own operating hours and many might be closed on certain days of the week. It’s worth noting that some hawker centres cater to specific meal times like breakfast or lunch rush hours, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before visiting any particular centre for a specific type of food or timing.

How Can I Find A Specific Hawker Centre Or Locate One Nearby My Current Location In Singapore?

To find a specific hawker centre or locate one nearby your current location in Singapore, you can use online resources like Google Maps or food apps such as Burpple and HungryGoWhere. Simply type ‘hawker centre’ into the search bar, and these platforms will show you a list of hawker centres around your area along with their addresses, operating hours, and reviews. Alternatively, you can also ask locals for recommendations or check out local websites that feature popular hawker centres to help guide your search.

Is It Possible To Find Halal Food At Singapore Hawker Centres?

Absolutely! You can easily find halal food at Singapore hawker centres. Many of these centres have a diverse range of food stalls, including those that offer halal options for Muslim diners. To ensure the food you’re ordering is halal, look for the green ‘Halal’ certification sticker displayed by the stall or simply ask the vendor if their dishes are halal-compliant. With numerous delicious and affordable choices available, you’ll have no trouble satisfying your cravings while adhering to your dietary requirements in Singapore’s vibrant hawker scene.

What Are The Average Prices For Meals At A Hawker Centre In Singapore, And Do They Accept Credit Cards Or Only Cash?

At a hawker centre in Singapore, you can expect to find delicious meals at affordable prices, with most dishes ranging from SGD 3 to SGD 6. Although cash is the most common mode of payment, an increasing number of stalls are starting to accept credit cards and digital payments such as PayNow or NETS. However, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash with you just in case your preferred stall doesn’t accept card payments.

So, you’ve learned about Singapore’s amazing hawker centres and the mouth-watering dishes they offer. Don’t hesitate to dive right in and treat your taste buds to a unique culinary adventure!

Remember our top tips for eating at a hawker centre: arrive early, be patient, and don’t forget to bring some cash. Now, go forth and satisfy your cravings while immersing yourself in Singapore’s vibrant food culture!

We have reached the end of the article! We’re glad that you made it this far! Now that you have our list of the best Hawker Centres in Singapore , do let us know if you feel that there are others that should be part of this list!

We hope this article that we have reviewed has been helpful for you! If you find this article helpful, do check out other related articles in Singapore !

• 15 Best Chicken Rice in Singapore (2024)
• 20 Best Fried Chicken Restaurants in Singapore: Delicious, Juicy & Crispy Korean & Fast Food Fried Chicken Joints (2024)
• 15 Best Rice Cookers in Singapore To Cook The Perfect Rice (2024)
• 30 Best Supper Spots in Singapore for Late Night Eats (2024)
• 15 Best Hawker Stalls in Old Airport Road Food Centre (2024)
• 20 Best Peranakan Restaurants in Singapore For Authentic Peranakan Food And Nyonya Cuisines (2024)

Jason Wong is a food lover based in Singapore. He is always on the hunt for the best culinary delights the city has to offer, from street food stalls to fine dining restaurants. With his passion for all things food, he shares his findings and experiences with readers through his writing, providing a unique perspective on Singapore's thriving food scene.

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Hawker Centres in Singapore

Published on 08 aug 2023..

Populated by passionate foodies, Singaporeans enjoy a wide variety of good food at affordable prices. Hawker centres, which are an indispensable pillar of the Singaporean way of life, offer numerous cuisines. Follow this guide to live like a local and be privy to the best eats in town.

Muslim travellers looking for Halal eats, thrilling itineraries or places of worship should check out the Muslim Visitor’s Guide— Download your copy here .

Convivial, multi-cultural, and true melting pots, Singapore’s hawker centers are a reflection of the country’s community spirit. At these hubs of good, affordable food, it's not uncommon to see Singaporeans sharing a meal made up of Malay satay, Indian biryani, and Chinese oyster omelettes. For visitors, it's a great way to sample all of Singapore’s quintessential dishes in one delicious sitting. While hawker centers are common across the island, these are the long-established favorites among locals, and our picks for Singapore's best hawker centers.

Maxwell Food Centre Arrow

With over 100 stalls, deciding what to eat can be overwhelming. The most popular stalls here are Tian Tian Chicken Rice and its rival Ah Tai, as well as the fry-it-yourself Hum Jin Pang, which serves plain or red bean-filled dough fritters. Join the queue for Zhen Zhen Fish Porridge or pick from a host of flavorful curries to eat with steamed white rice at Zhong Guo Jie Hainanese Curry Rice.

East Coast Lagoon Food Village Arrow

The choices here are mind-boggling, so when in doubt, join the queues at Hwa Kee BBQ Pork Noodle for, well, just that; Cheok Kee Duck Rice for the duck braised in a thick soy-based sauce and served with rice studded with taro; or Song Kee Fried Oyster for gooey omelettes strewn with small local oysters and served with a vinegar-spiked chilli sauce. Also order a couple of sticks of satay—best dipped in a delicious peanut sauce—from Haron Satay.

Tekka Centre Arrow

Singapore's Indian community likes to hang out here for a familiar taste of home, and it's easy to see why: Standouts include Allauddin's Biryani, Teochew dumplings and cakes from Yan Seng Traditional Teochew Kueh, prawn vadai (Indian fried dough fritters) from Sky Lab Cooked Food, and dosa stuffed with marsala-spiced potatoes from Anna Dosai Stall.

Tiong Bahru Market Arrow

With over 80 stalls under one roof, Singaporeans regard this as one of the best hawker centers around; people schlep here from across the island to get their fix of chwee kueh (steamed rice flour cakes topped with preserved turnip) at stall five, and tau suan (sweet mung bean soup) at stall 55. But whatever you do, don't leave without picking up some local kueh (cakes) from HarriAnn's Delights at stall 25.

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Old Airport Road Food Centre Arrow

At more than 40 years old, Old Airport Road Food Centre is one of Singapore's best-loved hawker complexes , with 150 stalls spread across a single floor in neat rows. It can seem daunting, but as a general rule, a long line in front of a stall means excellent food. And while it can be quite a wait, food-obsessed Singaporeans will assure you that it's totally worth it. Dishes that demand your patience here include hokkien mee (fried yellow wheat noodles doused in a seafood stock and studded with prawns and pork) from Nam Sing Hokkien Mee, and silky beancurd pudding from Lao Ban Soya Beancurd.

Chinatown Complex Food Centre Arrow

Many of the stalwarts of this hawker center got their start as nearby roadside stalls in the 1950s and 60s, and have a loyal following of Singaporeans. Head to Xiu Ji Ikan Bilis Yong Tau Fu for vegetables stuffed with fish paste and served with noodles in a broth; Tian Tian Porridge for its famed pork congee; and the immensely tasty Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice, which usually comes with an up-to 45-minute wait as the sisters who own the stall cook each pot of meat-topped rice over a charcoal fire.

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The 10 Best Hawker Centres to Savour Singapore's Flavours

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

24 JUL 23 . 6 MIN READ . GUIDES

The Best Hawker Centres in Singapore Unveiled

Are you ready for an unforgettable food adventure? Look no further than the best hawker centres in Singapore, undeniably the heart and soul of the local food scene. These lively open-air food courts bring together an incredible array of affordable and delicious eats that will satisfy your cravings like never before.

Did you know that hawker culture in Singapore has a fascinating history dating back to the 1800s? Immigrants found their calling in street hawking, serving their regional specialities for just a few cents. Fast forward to today, and hawker culture has become a source of immense pride, even earning UNESCO’s recognition as part of our world’s cultural heritage.

When you step into a hawker centre, you’re not just diving into a meal but also immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Singapore’s multicultural identity. These food hubs have nourished locals and visitors for generations, showcasing diverse dishes that reflect a melting pot of cultures.

With plenty of hawker centres to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice. We’ve handpicked some of our absolute favourites you must try on your next trip. Here’s our ultimate list of the best hawker centres in Singapore:

• Newton Food Centre
• Amoy Street Food Centre
• Maxwell Food Centre
• Old Airport Road Food Centre
• Adam Food Centre
• Mei Ling Market & Food Centre
• Bedok Hawker Centre
• Tanjong Pagar Food Centre
• Changi Village Hawker Centre

1. Newton Food Centre

Newton Food Centre is a must-visit hawker haven in Singapore, and it even made a star appearance in the hit rom-com Crazy Rich Asians. Remember that iconic scene where Rachel and Nick indulged in laksa , satay , and chilli crabs? Well, it all happened right here.

While Newton is slightly touristy due to its location near Orchard Road, don’t let that deter you. This bustling food paradise offers a fantastic outdoor atmosphere where you can feast on delectable local dishes and wash them down with refreshing cold beers.

@sanaaseats Everything I ate at the Newton Hawker Centre in Singapore #Singapore #Food #Fyp #travel #seafood #hawkercentre ♬ original sound – Sanaaseats

Now, let’s talk about one of the true gems hidden within Newton Food Centre – Kwang Kee Teochew Fish Porridge (#01-20). This humble stall earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award for its culinary prowess. One taste of the signature clear fish head soup ($6), and you’ll understand why it’s received such high praise.

But let’s not forget the main act of many local dishes – sambal chilli. When generously slathered over BBQ stingray ($12), you’ll be coming back for more. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of deliciousness that you won’t soon forget.

2. Amoy Street Food Centre

Amoy Street Food Centre is famous for hosting renowned Michelin Bib Gourmand awardees and noteworthy stalls.

This hawker centre comes to life during weekday office hours, and get incredibly crowded. If you want to secure a seat, arrive by 11am for your best chance. Don’t miss the mouthwatering offerings of Han Kee Fish Soup (#02-129), where office workers gather for a satisfying lunch.

@timeoutsg Everything's that worth queuing up for at Amoy. #t imeouteats # t imeoutsg # h awker # s gfood ♬ Sunglasses – Lux-Inspira

For a truly satisfying braised duck rice experience, head straight to Kin Men Seng Heng (#02-133). Their Braised Duck Rice Set ($6) is a pure delight. The duck is tender, bathed in a savoury and lightly braised sauce. It’s worth noting that this stall is halal-certified so that everyone can indulge in its deliciousness.

Looking for a stellar cup of coffee without the fuss? Look no further than Mad Roaster (#02-107). They are proof that exceptional coffee doesn’t require fancy cafes or frills, and can be found at hawker centres too!

3. Maxwell Food Centre

Maxwell Food Centre is a foodie’s paradise right in the heart of Singapore! You can’t visit this iconic hawker centre without trying the famous Maxwell Fuzhou Oyster Cake (#01-06) – it’s a mouthwatering delight that will leave you craving more.

And if you’re in the mood for something crispy and sweet, Hum Jin Pang (#01-28) is the place to go for their affordable fried dough fritters ($1) with a luscious red bean filling. The best part? They even let you cook the fritters yourself – talk about getting hands-on.

@thecaroandtina I need like an entire month just to try everything #hainanesechickenrice #singapore #maxwellfoodcentre #hawkerstall #asiastreetfood ♬ Until I Found You – Em Beihold Version – Stephen Sanchez & Em Beihold

Now, let’s talk about China Street Fritters (#01-64), where you can savour Hokkien-style ngoh hiang , liver rolls, and other tasty bites. Don’t forget to dip them in their irresistible sweet and spicy sauces for that extra kick of flavour!

Oh, and we can’t skip the legendary Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (#01-10). Their succulent chicken, fragrant rice, and mouthwatering sauces have made them a crowd favourite, with Anthony Bourdain and Gordon Ramsay among some of the stall’s famous fans.

4. Old Airport Road Food Centre

Back in 1972, the Old Airport Road Food Centre was created as a solution to relocate street hawkers from the Kallang Estate after the closure of Kallang Airport in 1955. These days, this bustling food centre is home to over 150 hawker stalls, each with its own friendly rivalries and delicious offerings.

@thereelpeople [Worth The Queue Hawker Gems💎] Local favourites at the Old Airport Road Food Centre Part II! Saving the best for the last! Watch to find out! 😋 📍Old Airport Road Food Centre 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051 #thereelpeople #toapayohsatay #yijihokkienprawnmee #sengkeengohiang #hokkienmee #ngohiang #hawkergem #satay #hawkergems #foodgems #foodtok #oldairportrdhawker #oldairportroad ♬ original sound – The Reel People

When you visit, make sure to try Roast Paradise’s (#01-1) mouthwatering char siew rice ($4.50) that will leave you craving for more. And for a delightful treat, Nyonya Chendol’s (#01-115) durian chendol ($3.50) is a must-try, blending the richness of durian with the refreshing sweetness of chendol .

But the culinary journey doesn’t stop there. Be sure to swing by To-Ricos Kway Chap (#01-135) for a hearty bowl of their kway chap ($6). You’ll be treated to a delectable combination of pig intestines, stomach, pork belly, tau kwa , tau pok , and braised eggs.

5. Adam Road Food Centre

Don’t be fooled by Adam Road Food Centre’s small size – this place is a hidden gem bursting with flavourful delights!

One stall that has gained worldwide acclaim is Selera Rasa’s (#01-02) nasi lemak. It’s so delicious that even the Sultan of Brunei requests it whenever he visits Singapore.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Singapore Foodie (@singapore.foodie)

Also, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong proudly served this dish to Indonesian President Joko Widodo once. Treat yourself to the full house set priced at $5.50, which includes mouthwatering fried chicken, perfectly cooked egg, crispy anchovies, and fiery sambal chilli.

At the same time, stop by Adam’s Indian Rojak (#01-05) for a plate of pure indulgence. They serve a delightful mix of fried fritters, hard-boiled eggs, potatoes, cuttlefish, and cucumber.

6. Mei Ling Market & Food Centre

While Mei Ling Food Centre may not have the same level of popularity as others on this list, it’s a hidden gem that shouldn’t be overlooked. This under-the-radar spot is perfect for enjoying a satisfying meal away from the crowds.

Make your way to Lao Jie Fang (#02-15) and treat yourself to their Hong Kong-style noodles, especially their famous beef brisket noodles ($5) with tender beef and noodles in a delicious sauce.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rayson Hazra (@crazy_rayzy)

Try the Hup Kee Teochew Fishball Noodles (#02-33) teochew fishball noodles in dry meepok , with fishballs, fishcake, and fish dumplings. This stall has earned a recommendation in the Singapore Michelin Guide, so it’s legit.

7. Bedok Interchange Hawker Centre

Calling all food lovers! Get ready to satisfy your taste buds at Bedok Interchange Hawker Centre, a must-visit gem in the heartlands.

Start your foodie adventure Inspirasi (#01-11), where you can dive into a bowl of mee rebus (S$2.50) bursting with savoury goodness. Don’t miss out on the soto ayam (S$2.50) either, a comforting chicken soup that will warm your heart.

Craving something unique? Fatt Soon Kueh (#01-18) is here to delight you with their delectable soon kueh (S$1). These steamed dumplings filled with flavourful ingredients will leave you craving more with every bite.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by @bennydunreallycare

Jefri The Original Botak Chicken Rice (#01-65) is also a must-try for irresistible nasi goreng ayam ($3.50). Picture this: a vibrant plate of bright orange fried rice accompanied by tender roasted chicken – perfection in the mouth.

8. Redhill Food Centre

Redhill Food Centre, one of Singapore’s oldest hawker centres, was constructed in 1972 as a complement to the adjacent wet market, so it’s one of the OGs when it comes to great hawker food in Singapore.

Seng Heng (#01-28), one of the centre’s must-try stalls, is famous for its braised duck noodles.

But here’s the catch: the stall is so insanely popular that they open at 7.30am and sell out by 9am. So, it’s better to set your alarm clocks early for this one.

@foodieversals Y’all been to Redhill food center yet?🥵🥵 #singaporefood #singaporefood #sgfoodie #sgfood #fyp #sgtiktok ♬ Getaway – BCD Studio

You can also give the mee siam a go at Jia Xiang Mee Siam (#01-35). This dish has thin vermicelli noodles, tau kwa , eggs, spring onions, fried croutons, and beansprouts.

Finally, if you’re looking for something unique, try out red wine chicken and the carefully prepared chicken feet noodles at Zhong Ji Mian Shi (#01-85).

9. Tanjong Pagar Food Centre

Tanjong Pagar Plaza Market & Food Centre stands out as one of the top hawker hotspots in Tanjong Pagar.

It provides a refreshing contrast to the towering high-rise buildings surrounding it. However, be prepared for the weekday lunchtime crowd as office workers from the nearby CBD flock to this lively hub. Visit Lucky Wanton Mee (#02-32), where the chefs cook noodles in a lovely black sauce and finish them with vegetables and crispy fried wontons.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hello Hawkers (@hellohawkers)

If you plan on keeping that diet on track, have a wholesome meal at Traditional Hakka Rice (#02-21) with a bowl of hakka thunder tea rice. ($4.50). This dish has fresh vegetables and a healthier oil than other hawker foods, plus you can eat it with brown rice too.

10. Changi Village Hawker Centre

Ah, the mouthwatering delights that await you at Changi Village Hawker Centre, one of the best hawker centres in Singapore. First, we have Weng Kee Ipoh Hor Fun (#01-19), where you can savour their delectable chicken chop hor fun for only $4. And if you’re a fan of the classic Ipoh Hor Fun, they’ve got you covered, too, for just $3.50.

Craving some aromatic nasi lemak ? Look no further than International Muslim Food Stall Nasi Lemak (#01-03). Their delicious chicken set is a steal at just $4.50, featuring a plate of fragrant coconut rice, perfectly fried egg, crispy fried chicken, fried ikan billis , and sambal . It’s a delightful explosion of flavours!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Korina Tagala (@dangyydingyy)

For seafood lovers, Woon Woon Pek Beehoon (#01-52) is the place to be. Treat yourself to their delightful seafood platter priced at $35, brimming with freshness and goodness.

Other exciting ways you can experience Singapore's street food scene:

11. learn about singapore's hawker culture, ultimate hawker centre food tour.

Singapore’s hawker centres have a fascinating history, evolving from illegal street vendors to being recognised on UNESCO’s Heritage List. Embark on an eating tour that dives into the heart of Singapore’s beloved wet and dry markets, hawker centres, and the rich heritage of iconic foods like kopi , belachan , and roti prata .

12. Explore the heritage and taste of Chinatown

Singapore chinatown and exotic hawkers tour.

With the Singapore Chinatown and Exotic Hawkers Tour , you will learn about Chinatown’s history as the original settlement for Chinese migrants. You can witness its transformation into a modern hub with cultural treasures, trendy eateries, and vibrant retail stores.

13. Indulge in Singapore's nostalgic flavours

Hawker walk local retro snacks tour.

Relish the flavours of the past on a two-hour retro snacks tour that’ll take you to Chinatown Complex, one of the best hawker centres in Singapore. Have beloved treats from every Singaporean’s childhood, like ear biscuits and carrot cake dishes, and meet the people who craft these traditional snacks.

14. Discover hidden culinary gems

Beyond michelin food tour in hawker centres and alleys.

Forget the usual Michelin-starred spots and dive into the heart of Singapore’s street food scene. Join a tour that takes you to hidden gems loved by locals, where you’ll taste authentic Singaporean delights. It’s a culinary adventure that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also give you a deeper understanding of the rich heritage behind each dish.

Commonly Asked Questions

1. what is a hawker centre in singapore .

A hawker centre in Singapore is a food court-like establishment with various food stalls under one roof, offering affordable and diverse street food.

2. How many hawker centres are there in Singapore? 

There are 118 hawker centres in Singapore. NEA manages and regulates these markets, hawker centres’ tenancies, and public health. 

3. Are hawker centres clean and hygienic? 

Hawker centres in Singapore are known for strict hygiene standards enforced by NEA, ensuring cleanliness and food safety.

4. Can I use credit cards at hawker centres? 

Cash is widely accepted but many hawker stalls now accept credit cards and online payments. However, carrying cash in smaller or older hawker centres is recommended.

5. Do hawker centres have halal food options? 

Many centres do offer halal-certified food options, catering to the Muslim community with strict halal requirements.

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Or, select on the map, 10 best singapore hawker centres worth taking your tourist friend to, best hawker centres for tourists to visit.

With most of our famous local dishes to be found in hawker centres, it is almost necessary for tourists to visit them to get a true slice of Singaporean cuisine. The question, then, is which hawker centre to visit. This listicle will take you through the 10 hawker centres you should bring your tourists friends to , which are home to Michelin-approved eats and stalls that draw long queues.

Table of Contents

1. Lau Pa Sat

2. maxwell food centre, 3. old airport road food centre, 4. adam road food centre, 5. amoy street food centre, 6. chinatown complex, 7. tiong bahru food centre, 8. tekka centre, 9. newton food centre, 10. ghim moh market & food centre, what hawker centres in singapore to bring tourists to.

Originally Singapore’s first wet market, Lau Pa Sat was later converted into a hawker centre in 1972, and has since become an iconic place for local food in Singapore. All your local classics can be found here, whether it be the chicken rice at Fragrance Garden Chicken Rice , hokkien mee at Golden Shoe Hokkien Mee , and of course, the various satay stalls. Beyond just the food, however, Lau Pa Sat is an architectural marvel—you can see the strong Victorian influence that remains there to this day. Historically significant, and a great place to feast at.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Satay – Chicken rice – Thunder tea rice

Address: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582

Maxwell Food Centre is home to arguably the most famous chicken rice stall on the planet, Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice , but that isn’t all it’s known for. Just two stores down, there’s the highly acclaimed Ah Tai Hainanese Chicken Rice , run by Wong Liang Tai, who was head cook at Tian Tian for more than 20 years. Other famous stalls here include Old Nonya , which offers homely Peranakan eats, and Jin Hua Fish Head Bee Hoon , known for its top-tier fish soup.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Chicken rice – Peranakan food – Fish soup

Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184

25 Maxwell Food Centre Stalls Including Green Chilli Chicken Rice And Famous Ondeh-Ondeh

With over a hundred stalls to pick from, Old Airport Road Food Centre is a treasure trove of good food. Some of the popular stalls, namely Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee , Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow , and To-Ricos Guo Shi , are featured in the Michelin Guide Singapore Bib Gourmand . But it isn’t just the established veteran stalls here that are worth checking out—relative newcomers such as Minced Pork Bros and Hei Po Po , which is known for its crayfish hor fun, have been making waves, too.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Hokkien Mee – Char kway teow – Kway chap

Address: 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051

25 Old Airport Road Food Centre Stalls To Eat At—Wagyu Beef Noodles, Famous Hokkien Mee And More

Adam Road Food Centre may be one of the smaller hawker centres on the list, but it’s home to some of the most famous halal stalls in the country. The two highly popular nasi lemak stalls in the place, No. 1 Adam’s Nasi Lemak and Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak , offer moreish renditions of the fragrant Malay dish. There are two Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded stalls here: Bahrakath Mutton Soup , known for its soup kambing, and the non-halal Adam Rd Noo Cheng Big Prawn Noodle .

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Nasi lemak – Soup kambing – Prawn mee

Address: 2 Adam Road, Singapore 289876

The two-storey Amoy Street Food Centre has an exciting mix of hawker choices, ranging from old but well-known business to next-gen stalls. From the former, you have picks such as Han Kee Fish Soup and Hong Kee Beef Noodle . From the latter, you have the Michelin-approved A Noodle Story , famed for its unique Singapore-style ramen, and Chun Feng Man Mian , which offers truffle wonton mee. Though you may have to tussle with the CBD crowd during peak hours, it’s worth it for the excellent eats you can find here.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Fish soup – Beef noodles – Wonton mee

Address: 7 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069111

20 Amoy Street Food Centre Stalls To Visit When You’re In The CBD

With its labyrinth layout and staggering amount of stalls, Chinatown Complex is a must-visit. If you’re bringing your tourist friend here for some hearty eats, be sure to try stalls such as Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice , Fatty Ox HK Kitchen , which is known for its beef brisket noodles, and Jin Ji Teochew Braised Duck & Kway Chap . You can also get some dim sum from Hong Kong Mong Kok Tim Sum or Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao to go along with those.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Claypot rice – Dim sum – Duck rice

Address: 335 Smith Street, Singapore 050335

15 Chinatown Complex Food Stalls For Cheap Xiao Long Bao, Michelin-Approved Chicken Rice And More

Located on the second floor of Tiong Bahru market, Tiong Bahru Food Centre features a wide variety of hawker eats, many of which are by renowned stalls. Perhaps the most popular there is Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice , which is considered one of the best places for Hainanese curry rice in Singapore. Other stalls here include Zhong Yu Yuan Wei Wanton Noodle , known for its char siew taken from pigs’ armpit, and Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup .

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Hainanese curry rice – Wonton Mee – Pig’s organ soup

Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168898

In the heart of Little India is Tekka Centre , so it is no surprise that the place has many amazing Indian stalls. It is home to Allauddin’s Briyani , an iconic stall that serves the rich and fragrant briyani. Indian-style rojak can be found at Haji Johan Indian Muslim Food , and Ar-Rahman Cafe and Royal Prata offers great crispy prata. But it isn’t just Indian dishes the place is known for—you can also get prawn mee at 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodle and duck rice at Heng Gi Goose and Duck Rice here.

Do note that Tekka Market Food Centre is currently undergoing renovations, and will return on 30 September 2023.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Briyani – Prata – Prawn mee

Address: 665 Buffalo Road, Singapore 210665

Newton Food Centre ranks among the top hawker centres that are frequented by tourists, and it’s easy to see why. The fact that it was featured in Crazy Rich Asians has surely bolstered its name, but the acclaimed stalls here are what truly draw eaters. A few stalls, including Heng Carrot Cake and Alliance Seafood , received the Michelin Bib Gourmand award. Plenty others, such as Soon Wah Fishball Kway Teow Mee , seem to have perpetually long queues. A safe option for your tourist friend.

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Carrot cake – Fishball noodles – Zi char

Address: 500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Singapore 229495

Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre isn’t the most obvious pick when it comes to hawker centres that tourists should check out, but that doesn’t mean it is any less of a hotspot for good food. Here, you can find the famous “Sungei Road-style” by 63 Laksa , wok hei-infused char kway teow by Guan Kee Fried Kway Teow , and gravy-filled hor fun by Hin Fried Hor Fun . If you’re looking for something less hearty, there are stalls here that offer moreish snacks, including chee kueh at Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh and chee cheong fun at Teck Hin Delicacies .

Singapore hawker food this place is famous for: – Carrot cake – Char kway teow – Hor fun

Address: 20 Ghim Moh Road, Singapore 270020

These were some of the best hawker centres for tourists to visit. For a list of must-try Singaporean dishes, read our ultimate Singapore food guide . For places to get chilli crabs and other seafood dishes, check out our best seafood restaurants in Singapore guide .

The Ultimate Singapore Food Guide: 75 Truly Local Dishes You Must Try

Feature image adapted from Johnson Lam and @orange_in_the_fridge .

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What Are the Must-Visit Hawker Centers in Singapore?

Food is something Singaporeans and expats here both share a passion for. And why not? Singapore as a multicultural nation offers a variety of unique delicacies, from Michelin dishes to local cuisines, including food served at well-loved hawker centers.

Singaporeans are passionate foodies who enjoy a broad variety of delectable dishes at reasonable prices. Hawker Centers , which are an important aspect of Singaporean culture, offer a wide variety of cuisines. You’ll be able to live like a local and have access to the best eateries in town if you read this list all the way to the end.

Best Food Hawker Centers When in Singapore

Adam road food center, amoy street food center, newton food center, ·         tekka center, abc brickworks food center, tiong bahru market, chomp chomp, golden mile food center, the bedok marketplace.

What Singapore lacks in land space, it makes up for a diverse cultural legacy, which is most evident in the food it offers. If you’ve never visited this bustling city-state island, you should know that there are various hawker centers throughout the country where you may have a unique culinary experience. According to residents, the following are some of the most popular sites in the major city districts:

The Singapore Botanic Gardens, whose tranquil trails pass by swan lakes and lead to award-winning eateries such as Corner House and The Halia, are just a short walk away from Adam Road Food Centre.

Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak (fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, complemented by a variety of side dishes like as omelette, fried fish, and anchovies) and Bahrakath Mutton Soup King (mutton soup) are two of Adam Road’s famed hawker centres.

If you’re curious about the dining experience in this place, here’s what Md Zulkifli Aziz has to say: “The best place for your goreng combos here is at a stall named Al Sheik. Look them up! Won’t disappoint you!”

Opening Hours : 7am-10:30pm daily. Address : Adam Road Food Centre (Beside Botanic Gardens MRT station). 2 Adam Rd, Singapore 289876. Google Map Location:

Amoy Street Food Center is a popular lunch destination for professionals and white-collar employees from the surrounding area, offering both traditional hawkers and trendy fusion fare at reasonable costs.

While traditional hawker stalls serve classics such as fish porridge (#02-100) and lor mee (#02-79), yellow noodles in a deep, savory gravy, you might like to try some of the more innovative cuisine offered. A Noodle Story (#01-139) is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded noodle dish that blends Japanese ramen with shrimp, roast pork, and dumplings.

As for C Pang, dining here has been nothing but a treat. They said: “This place is full of nice local foods. Why pay more for ATAS eateries when you got your UNESCO listed hawker food culture to support without breaking your bank.”

Opening Hours : 6:30 am to 9 pm daily. Address : Amoy Street Food Centre (Near Telok Ayer and Tanjong Pagar MRT stations). 7 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069111 Google Map Location:

George Coleman designed this historic market in the 1830s, and it has been lovingly repaired since then. Lau Pa Sat is the go-to spot for good hawker fare in the Central Business District, with local favorites and international cuisines like North Indian, Korean, and Vietnamese.

Stalls 7 and 8, which run parallel to Lau Pa Sat on Singapore’s famous Satay Street, offer the best version of the street’s namesake grilled beef and chicken skewers (satay).

Opening Hours : Select stalls are open 24 hours daily. Address : Lau Pa Sat (Near Raffles Place, Tanjong Pagar, Telok Ayer and Downtown MRT stations.) 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582.Maxwell Food Center Google Map Location:

If you’ve seen the Hollywood film Crazy Rich Asians, you’ll recognize Newton Food Center. With over 100 hawker stores and a major appearance in one of the film’s early scenes, this bustling hawker Center has long been one of the island’s most popular eating destinations.

It can be difficult to choose a dish to try with the variety of options. Among popular favorites though are Guan Kee Grilled Seafood’s (#01-53) barbecued sambal stingray, or Kwee Heng’s (#01-13) savory duck noodle.

Here’s what Michelita Sorvida thinks about her dining experience in this hawker center: “If you’re looking for a lively food market with lots of food stalls and hawkers to choose from, NEWTON FOOD CENTRE is for you! They offer delicious seafood and hawker specialties…and the prices are budget friendly. Most of the stalls are Halal. The ambiance is also relaxing and fun at the same time.”

Opening Hours : Noon-2am daily Address : Newton Food Center (Near Newton MRT station). 500 Clemenceau Avenue North #01-05, Singapore 229495. Google Map Location:

Tekka Centre,  located at the heart of Little India’s bustle and was once known as “Kandang Kerbau” because of its buffalo pens, is now known as “Tekka Bamboo” because of the bamboo that once grew here. The upper floor sells traditional clothing and accessories, while the food stalls below sell some of the greatest dum briyani (an Indian spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables) and Indian rojak (mixed dough, potato, and shrimp fritters).

As for Hamzah Daud’s experience, dining here has been worth it. “Always crowded. But a lot of stall and food to choose from. Best bryani and local Indian cuisine. Best price in town. Worth the travel.”

Opening Hours : 5am-1pm daily. Address : Tekka Centre ( Above Little India MRT station ) 60 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 229900. Google Map Location:

ABC Brickworks Food Centre is named after the Archipelago Brewery Company and the brickworks factories that used to populate this neighborhood and is located within walking distance of HortPark, Henderson Waves Bridge, and the various art galleries of Gillman Barracks.

Built in the 1970s, ABC Brickworks Market is still a modern and popular destination for foodies around the country, with dishes like claypot rice (chicken, preserved sausages, veggies, and rice charred and served in a claypot) and Bib Gourmand-winning Ah Er herbal soup.

Here’s what Kamarulzaman Kamarudin has to share about their experience dining here: “Cheap and delicious food here. Lots of varieties and definitely worth the $$. Do come by to show support and keep the hawker culture alive!”

Opening Hours : 8am-11pm daily. Address : ABC Brickworks Food Centre (Near Redhill and Queenstown MRT stations) 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 150006.Tiong Bahru Market Google Map Location:

Tiong Bahru Market is located in a historic neighborhood with Art Deco style apartments and delicious restaurants. Don’t miss the famed roasted pork buns at Tiong Bahru Pau, as well as exquisite wanton mee (egg noodles with dumplings) and chwee kueh (steamed rice cakes topped with preserved radish). Then, for coffee and dessert, visit one of the numerous modern cafés in the vicinity.

Despite the community restrictions, Avan Chua was able to make their experience taking out food frmom this hawker place. They said: “Due to the current Covid Situation, about 50% of the stalls are closed, but you’ll still find enough variety to satisfy your cravings. The Grilled Fish that I took away was amazingly grilled, soft and tender. No regrets buying from there.”

Opening Hours : 9am-8pm daily. Address : Tiong Bahru Market (Between Outram and Tiong Bahru MRT stations). 30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168898. Google Map Location:

Chomp Chomp, in the Serangoon Gardens residential neighborhood, is a must-visit for scrumptious cuisine before visiting Coney Island or Seletar Aerospace Park. Satay bee hoon (thin rice noodles with satay sauce) and Hokkien mee (fried prawn noodles) are popular items at this market. Sugar cane juice is supplied in an extra-large glass to wash down your food.

According to Harsh Saxena, dining here again has brought back great memories. They said: “Always fun to be back. Good food, relaxed ambience …can chill with friends. Getting a table is a whole other thing though. Come early if you are a big group. Also got safe distancing ambassadors making regular rounds with camera. Have fun!”

Opening Hours : 4pm-12:30am daily. Address : Chomp Chomp Food Centre (Take a bus from Serangoon MRT station). 20 Kensington Park Road, Singapore 557269. Google Map Location:

Kampong Gelam, which is home to chic cafes and bars, is adjacent to Golden Mile Food Centre. The two-story Golden Mile Food Centre sells good sup tulang (mutton bone cooked in gravy), Peranakan cuisine, and Ah-Balling (glutinous riceballs with peanut, sesame or red bean filling, in a peanut soup).

User W8ll8amS8m moneygrow38gmail shares their experience dining here, saying: “Many nice and delicious food stall , 2 levels selling all kinds of traditional foods. From Indian to Chinese to Western. I especially like the Hokkien Prawn Noodles. Fantastic and Yummy!”

Opening Hours : 11 am – 9:30 pm daily. Address : Golden Mile Food Centre (Between Nicoll Highway and Lavender MRT stations). 505 Beach Road, Singapore 199583. Google Map Location:

The Bedok Marketplace, formerly known as Simpang Bedok Marketplace, is a popular hawker center where East-siders have long congregated for good mee pok (flat egg noodles with fish balls and minced meat) and Indian Muslim cuisine. This prestigious hotel is a ten-minute walk from Tanah Merah MRT station and a fifteen-minute cab ride from Changi International Airport.

Young chefs and restaurateurs now operate the hawker centre, and their home-baked bread, ramen, and seafood are must-tries. The Wagyu steaks at The Burning Oak (#02-16) and the Japanese delicacies at KoKoRo Ramen (#02-22) are highly recommended.

Opening Hours : 11:30am-10:30 pm daily except Mondays. Address : The Bedok Marketplace (Take buses 2, 9 or 48 from Tanah Merah MRT station). 348 Bedok Rd, Singapore 469560. Google Map Location:

Indeed, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering dishes you’ll find in any of the hawker centers included on this list. And while restrictions are temporarily set in place, visiting these dining spots are a must when you’re visiting Singapore! Hopefully, things will settle down soon so that more people can enjoy these excellent cultural locations in the country.

READ NEXT:   Here’s What You Need to Know about Drinking in Singapore

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16 best affordable hawker centres in Singapore for delicious local fare

Hawker centres in Singapore are a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of wallet-friendly delights, including Chinese favourites , delicious Western fare , heartwarming Muslim dishes , and aromatic Indian options .

Whenever I have friends from overseas visiting, I always make it a point to take them to our vibrant food centres, where they can be fully immersed in the sights and sounds of our local culture.

Singapore boasts a total of 118 hawker centres (!) and everyone has a preferred food spot. It’s challenging to determine the absolute best, but I’ve curated a food guide featuring the 16 best affordable hawker centres in Singapore for delicious local fare ; based on my own personal makan adventures and opinions.

Do note that this is entirely subjective, and your favourite place may not be included. Please don’t be offended if it’s not listed!

1. Old Airport Road Food Centre

When it comes to getting recommendations for hawker centres in Singapore, Old Airport Road Food Centre is often at the top of the list. Built in 1972, this iconic food centre has stood the test of time and continues to be a favourite among locals and visitors alike. With approximately 168 food stalls, it offers an extensive range of culinary delights to satisfy every palate.

For satisfying roast pork or char siew , drop by Roast Paradise (#01-121) and pair it with my favourite Hakka Noodle. Xin Mei Xiang Zheng Zong Lor Mee (#01-116) and Xiang Ji Lor Mee (#01-81) each have their loyal following of supporters for their great bowls of Lor Mee .

Visit Shi Nian (#01-63) for palatable plates of Pig Trotter Rice. If you’re in the mood for something unique, Cho Kee Noodle (#01-04) is the place to be, with their handmade noodles available in a range of varieties including whole grain, beetroot, and spinach. Don’t miss out on their must-try Fried Wanton Noodle!

51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051 Daily: 6am – 10.30pm

2. Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre

Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre is known to be one of Singapore’s largest hawker centres in Singapore with over 260 food stalls available. Visit Mum Daughter Kitchen (#02-159) for scrumptious plates of nasi padang with freshly-cooked dishes.

For aromatic Nasi Rendang Daging with Bamboo, visit Bamboo Nasi Rendang (#02-154) which steams the rice with meat wrapped in phrynium pubinerve in bamboo for 3 hours; resulting in a fragrant dish.

Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice (#02-198/199) sells clay pot rice that’s cooked from scratch over charcoal! Order the Mixed Rice which has a little of everything including lup cheong , salted fish and chicken chunks.

Shang Hai Fried Xiao Long Bao (#02-104) serves freshly-made Original  Sheng Jian Bao stuffed with pork or prawn. Maria Virgin Chicken 瑪莉亞處女雞 (#02-189) is known to dish out succulent soya sauce chicken and to be the mentor of renowned Hawker Chan . My favourite side dish here is the Signature Braised Beancurd.

If you’re feeling stuffed with food, you can visit SohGood Bak Chang (#02-209) and take home some good quality Cantonese rice dumplings .

46 Smith Street, Singapore 058956 Daily: 8am – 9pm Facebook | Instagram

3. ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre

Strategically nestled between the neighbourhoods of Alexandra and Bukit Merah, ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre is a stone’s throw away from IKEA and Queensway Shopping Centre . It was built in 1974 and is considered to be one of the oldest hawker centres in Singapore.

For those in search of huge portions of Western cuisine priced below S$10, Wow Wow West (#01-133) has options like Pork Chop and Fish & Chips. Michelin Bib Gourmand stall, Ah Er Herbal Soup (#01-141), sells bowls of nutritious soup and you can pair it with tasty pumpkin rice.

When it comes to delectable desserts, Jin Jin Dessert (#01-21) is a true paradise. The stall boasts an impressive selection of 44 hot and cold desserts! You absolutely must try their Power Chendol (my favourite) with the gooiest gula melaka around and Ice Jelly Soursop for a refreshing dessert. Yum.

There’s also Hua Shun Bak Kut Teh (#01-117) for bowls of flavourful and peppery rich bak kut teh  and pig’s organ soup. My personal recommendation is Hong Kong Soy Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle (#01-102) which has yummy soy sauce chicken and tantalising noodles.

6 Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 150006 Mon to Sat: 8am – 11pm Sun: 8am – 12am Instagram

4. Geylang Bahru Market and Food Centre

After a swimming session at Kallang Basin Swimming Complex, my buddy introduced me to Geylang Bahru Market and Food Centre . Ever since that visit, I’ve become a loyal fan of this place, captivated by its diverse range of delectable offerings.

Ding Xiang Mei Shi (鼎香美食) (#01-32) is owned by a native Chinese couple. Their specialty lies in homemade Xiao Long Bao and a variety of dumplings crafted right before your eyes. Get the Red Oil  Chao Shou which is doused in a chilli oil and vinegar mixture, topped generously with spring onions and coriander.

I’m so glad that Hui Wei Chilli Ban Mian (#01-58) was newly-added to the 2023 Michelin Bib Gourmand list . I’ve been a fan of their Signature Chilli  Ban Mian , even if it makes me sweat profusely and sets my tongue on fire. Oikos Western Delight (#01-66) serves up old-school Western dishes such as Chicken Cutlet and Spring Chicken.

Visit Mei Ji Fishball Noodles (#01-70) for shiok bowls of Fishball Noodles, and Victory Hainanese Curry Rice (#01-40) for a plate of economical curry rice with generous servings, and tasty ingredients.

When you’re on a mission to quench your thirst, search for Fruit & Juice House (#01-34) and order the Pink Guava and Pineapple Mixed Juice (my personal go-to) for a refreshing taste of summer.

69 Geylang Bahru, Singapore 330069 Mon to Sat: 6am – 11.45pm Sun: 7am – 11.45pm

5. Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre

Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre is situated within the matured estate of Ghim Moh. While it may not be the most conveniently-located hawker centre, a leisurely 15 to 20- minute walk from Buona Vista MRT station will bring you to this culinary gem.

Among the 72 stalls, there’s one standout destination worth exploring— 63 Laksa (#01-20). This hidden gem serves affordable bowls of laksa for just S$2.80, prepared using a cherished family recipe passed down from the owner’s grandfather since the 1960s. For a delightful combination, don’t miss out on their scrumptious Mackerel Otah .

Indulge in one of my personal favourites; Old Teochew 老潮州 (#01-18) which sells mouth-watering plates of mee siam and satay bee hoon (except on Thursdays).

For an authentic taste of Thai cuisine, head over to Yuan Authentic Thai Stewed Beef Noodle (#01-32). This eatery, owned by a native Chiang Rai lady, serves up heartwarming bowls of Thai Beef Combination Noodle that’s perfect for slurping. Don’t forget to give their refreshing Century Egg Salad a shot, too.

For perfectly-charred and crispy white carrot cake , join the queue at Ghim Moh Carrot Cake (#01-16); trust me, the wait will be worth it.

20 Ghim Moh Road, Singapore 270020 Daily: 10am – 10pm

6. Hong Lim Market & Food Centre

Located in the heart of Singapore’s bustling Chinatown lies Hong Lim Market & Food Centre , a well-known culinary destination famous for its assortment of local food. This 2-storey hawker centre contains loads of stalls like the ever-popular Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee (#02-17), which sells its plates of char kway teow from S$4.50 onwards.

Michelin-recommended Ji Ji Noodle House (#02-48/49/50) serves up delicious bowls of wanton noodles that don’t disappoint. Another Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee awaits at Tai Wah Pork Noodle (#02-16), where you’ll find plates of bak chor mee that are worth the long queues.

Heng Kee Curry Chicken Noodle (#01-58) recently also made it to the 2023 Michelin Bib Gourmand list, and serves traditional bowls of curry chicken noodles.

During lunchtime, Tang Kay Kee Fish Head Bee Hoon (#01-70) does tze char bowls with options like Har Cheong Gai Rice Bowl while at dinner, it switches things up to more classic offerings like Salted Fish Fried Rice and Stir Fry Dry Beef Hor Fun .

531A Upper Cross Street, Singapore 051531 Open 24 hours

7. Tampines Round Market & Food Centre

Since its establishment in 1983, Tampines Round Market & Food Centre , accompanied by its neighbouring shophouses, has become an iconic landmark in Tampines .

It stands as a vibrant social and commercial hub, deeply ingrained in the lives of local residents. This popular food spot is also big and airy like an open courtyard with big fans on the ceiling.

Yummy Sarawak Kolo Mee (#01-45) stands out as one of the most sought-after stalls in this food centre, consistently attracting a lengthy queue of eager customers. While renowned for its Sarawak Sibu QQ Spaghetti, their Spare Ribs Chicken Feet Noodle also garners high praise for its exceptional quality.

Xing Ji (#01-35) is another beloved stall that commands a loyal following which sells Wanton Noodle, Shredded Chicken Noodle and Dumpling Soup.

Xin Xing Carrot Cake (#01-44) dishes out plates of soft and fluffy Carrot Cake with an option of adding prawns. For thosai enthusiasts, a visit to Rajarani Thosai (#01-33) is a must. Indulge in their mouthwatering varieties, such as Masala and Butter Egg Onion.

137 Tampines Street 11, Singapore 522137 Daily: 6.30am – 3pm

8. Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre

The charming and quaint neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru is not only known for their cafes and restaurants, but also Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre . Have some silky-soft rice cakes topped with savoury cai poh  at Jian Bo Shui Kueh (#02-05) for breakfast to start your day.

Enjoy the coconutty fragrance of blue pea Nasi Lemak at The CoCo Rice (#02-58) with a variety of different sets like a fried chicken whole leg or sambal prawn with sambal petai .

Savour an aromatic plate of Chicken Rice with tender and juicy meat at Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice (#02-82) or go for Tow Kwar Pop (#02-06), a 54-year-old Michelin-recommended charcoal grilled rojak stall in Tiong Bahru Market.

A list of upcoming & reopened hawker centres for 2023

For a rich and lemak treat, get the Lontong at Ali Corner (#02-17) or if you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of soup, make your way to Koh Brother Pig’s Organ Soup (#02-29). Their clean-tasting broth, filled with tender pig’s organs, will warm your soul.

30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168898 Daily: 7am – 10pm Facebook | Instagram

9. Clementi 448 Market & Food Centre

When you step into Clementi 448 Market & Food Centre , the air is filled with the aroma of delicious dishes as you explore the diverse stalls. Positioned in the vibrant Clementi heartlands, just behind Clementi Mall, this hawker centre boasts selected stalls that consistently draw long queues.

One of them is Boon Kee Wanton Mee (#01-40) which sells Wanton Noodles and Dumpling Noodles with the option to add on Fried Wanton . Soon Lee Porridge (#01-50) gives customers the option to choose between Pork, Chicken or Fish Porridge, and the taste is known to be consistent throughout all these years (something I really appreciate).

Chai Ho Satay (#01-10) offers Chicken and Pork Satay accompanied by a rich and tasty peanut sauce. At Song Fish Soup (#01-38), indulge in their expertly-prepared Fried Fish Bee Hoon , boasting tender fish and a flavourful milky broth.

Lastly, Fried Carrot Cake (#01-45) serves up delectable black or white chai tow kway plates that you simply can’t miss.

448 Clementi Avenue 3, Singapore 120448 Daily: 7am – 9pm

10. Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre

Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. It houses some of the best Malay food you can find out of all the hawker centres in Singapore. Otak-Otak Kampung (#02-165) grills batch after batch of old-school Otak Otak made with fresh fish chunks.

For aromatic plates of nasi briyani bursting with flavour, Geylang Briyani Stall (#02-146) offers fall-off-the-bone tender mutton or chicken to go along with it. For a delicious Indian Rojak featuring an assortment of scrumptious ingredients, search for Rojak & Mee Siam (#02-126).

Make sure to leave room in your tummy for an ice-cold bowl of Cendol priced at just S$2 from Cendol Geylang Serai (#02-107). You can also pack home a variety of sweet snacks like Kueh Salat from Kueh Talam Asli (#02-148) to share with your loved ones.

1 Geylang Serai, Singapore 402001 Mon to Fri: 6am – 9pm Sat & Sun: 6am – 10pm

11. Changi Village Hawker Centre

Situated at the eastern end of Singapore, Changi Village Hawker Centre has garnered an iconic status and remains a favourite among early risers and supper junkies.

Notably, Mizzy Corner Nasi Lemak (#01-26) and International Muslim Food Stall Nasi Lemak (#01-03) have secured their positions as 2 of the most renowned hawker stalls in the area, thanks to their tantalising array of Nasi Lemak Sets.

Indulge in sinful and crispy delights at Million Star Fried Banana (#01-49), where you can savour a variety of delectable snacks such as Fried Tapioca, Fried Sweet Potato, and Fried Banana. For a mouthwatering experience, make sure to try the irresistible plates of Chicken Chop Hor Fun and Wanton Noodle at Weng Kee Ipoh Hor Fun (#01-19).

For a hearty plate of nasi padang , Hjh Salbiah (#01-04) serves up mean plates of Nasi Sambal Goreng and Nasi Ambeng . For a taste of nostalgia, Hassan Stall (#01-29) sells old-school kampung -style Mee Rebus and Laksa .

2 Changi Village Road, Singapore 500002 Mon to Fri: 6am – 2am Sat & Sun: Open 24 hours

12. Bedok 85 Fengshan Food Centre

Bedok 85 Fengshan Food Centre reigns as the ultimate supper spot in the East. Renowned for its diverse selection of barbecued delicacies like satay, chicken wings, and stingray, this hawker centre is a local favourite.

However, its fame doesn’t stop there. Bedok 85 is the epicentre of the renowned bak chor mee rivalry, Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian (#01-07) and Seng Hiang Bak Chor Mee (#01-08) located side by side, attracting crowds from across Singapore.

There’s also Shi Wei Da (#01-41) which serves shiok plates of satay bee hoon . Pavin and I found the best Dry Laksa in the whole of Singapore at Omage Foods (#01-69) but they only operate till 2pm (do take note).

Treat your taste buds to yummy Hotplate BBQ Stingray and other seafood dishes at Chomp Chomp BBQ (#01-44) or have a bowl of piping hot porridge from  Chai Chee Pork Porridge (#01-23 & #01-64).

85 Bedok North Street 4, Singapore 460085 Mon to Sat: 7am – 2am Sun: 7am – 12am

13. Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre

Although Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre is technically located in Toa Payoh, it’s located within closer promixity to Braddell MRT. The wet market is located below but as you ascend to the 2nd floor, you’ll discover a lively food haven where a multitude of flavours and aromas await.

For the best experience, I recommend visiting during breakfast and the early lunch period, as most stalls tend to close by mid-afternoon.

Forget about boring chee cheong fun filled with char siew or prawns; Grandpa Homemade Cheung Fun (#02-22) churns out stone-milled mixtures with interesting colours made from spinach and purple dragon fruit. Discover interesting combinations like Egg + Vegetables or Corn + Sausage. You’ll not regret!

If you’re on the hunt for one of the best white carrot cakes in Singapore, Chey Sua Carrot Cake (#02-30) is a must-visit. It boasts a slightly starchy texture reminiscent of crispy orh luak (oyster omelette).

Delicious treats don’t always have to be visually flawless. Ugli Muffins (#02-34) embraces imperfection with pride. It has over 50 years of history and features irregular-shaped muffins in flavours like Banana Walnut and Cranberry.

If you’re craving delectable buns, Teochew Handmade Pau (#02-02) has an array of sweet and savoury options like Small Kong Bak Pau and Big Chicken Pau . Each bite unveils the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating these mouth-watering treats.

127 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310127 Daily: 6am – 4pm

14. Haig Road Market & Food Centre

If you’re shopping at PLQ Mall or KINEX, clock some steps and make your way to Haig Road Market & Food Centre , where an enticing array of 72 hawker stalls eagerly await your arrival.

If you’re there at 11am, keep an eye out for Chef Chik (#01-36), led by an esteemed ex-executive chef from Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel. This exceptional stall, known for its restaurant-standard zi char dishes such as Steamed Threadfin Belly and Chef Chik’s Garlic Chee Cheong Fun With Prawn, closes promptly at 3.30pm.

Another stall worth mentioning is Muslim-owned establishment, Sinar Harapan (#01-12), which has been around for the past 46 years. It serves shiok Lontong, Lontong Kering as well as Nasi Ambeng .

Visit Lim Yu Mei (林玉梅) Sarawak Laksa & Kolo Mee (#01-33) which serves Laksa Sarawak and Sarawak Kolo Mee with original, black, or red sauce options.

If you have a penchant for mee rebus , Afandi Hawa & Family Mee Rebus (#01-21) does a pretty good job at only S$3.50 a bowl.

14 Haig Road, Singapore 430014 Daily: 6am – 10pm

15. Hougang Hainanese Village Centre

The vibrant neighbourhood of Lorong Ah Soo houses Hougang Hainanese Village Centre . As you take the escalator to the 2nd level, you’ll be welcomed by an impressive array of approximately 51 food stalls, each showcasing a wonderful selection of local favourites.

If you’re craving for a good bowl of noodles, Punggol Noodles (#02-24) offers delicious Bak Chor Mee and Kway Teow Soup. 明发鸭饭  Ming Fa Duck Rice (#02-01) is a popular stall serving lip-smacking braised duck and pork belly, and they’re usually sold out by early lunchtime.

Prepare to join the lengthy queues that often form at Lorong Ah Soo Lor Mee (#02-51), as this stall has gained quite a notorious reputation. Their specialty is Lor Mee , a unique twist on the traditional dish featuring shredded duck meat instead of the more commonly-used mackerel fish.

For a taste of Hokkien Prawn Mee and Char Kway Teow cooked to perfection, head over to Quan Ji Cooked Food (#02-37) where these two classic dishes are expertly prepared with finesse.

105 Hougang Avenue 1, Singapore 530105 Daily: 6am – 6pm

16. Golden Mile Food Centre

Affectionately known as the ‘Beach Road Army Market’ among those serving NS, Golden Mile Food Centre located along Beach Road offers a unique experience. This bustling food centre features 2 levels of food stalls, with the top floor doubling up as a marketplace selling an assortment of military-themed goods and knick-knacks.

86 Lor Mee (#01-86) offers loaded bowls of Signature Lor Mee served with fried chicken cutlet, ebi prawns, fried fish fillets, wanton skins and ngoh hiang . Next-door neighbour, 吃了吗 (Chi Le Ma) (#01-87) offers value-for-money steamed fish sets which is a must-visit.

Savour the exceptional wok hei and pork-free goodness at 91 Fried Kway Teow Mee (#01-91). Indulge in their flavourful char kway teow , expertly prepared with a delightful combination of leafy greens, cockles, egg, bean sprouts, crispy deep-fried ikan bilis , and succulent prawns.

End your meal at 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup (#01-75) with their handcrafted tang yuan filled with delightful fillings like peanut and green tea.

505 Beach Road, Singapore 199583 Thu to Tue: 11am – 8pm Wed: 12pm – 8pm

List of markets & hawker centres scheduled for spring cleaning in June 2023

Written By Aaron Tan

Ex Chef who loves to makan. Music, sports and UV rays fuel me! Nicknamed vampire as I don't seem to look like my age at all.

13 best food spots in Holland Village you should visit while you’re at this culinary gem

New in town: wo wo dian – a 135-year legacy of century-old steamed buns & szechuan rice noodles, char siew yoong: pudu’s legendary buttery, melt-in-the mouth char siew continues to reign supreme, good gai: singapore’s first thai fried chicken specialty store within aperia mall with 2 kinds of crispy chicken, $3.30 peach garden dim sum in may & jun to celebrate mother’s & father’s day, first dibs: apac food & beverage expo — over 300 f&b stalls, up to 70% off deals from 2 to 5 may 2024.

Eating well in this city doesn’t mean emptying your pockets. A tiny island big on food, Singapore has over 110 hawker centers that will serve up a hearty meal for only US$5 (or less). Buzzing with sizzling grills, steaming pots, and heady spices, these open-air food courts are the soul of Singapore’s storied food traditions. The halls of any hawker center hold a spellbinding array of dishes across cultures, from Hainanese chicken rice to nasi lemak (coconut rice) and roti prata (Indian flatbread). The world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal was also once found right here—in the humble hawker center.

If a couple of days in Singapore is all you’ve got, narrowing the hawker picks down can feel overwhelming. To help you out, we got four passionate locals—chefs and food writers, no less—to share their most-loved hawker centers, must-try stalls, and top tips. Whether you’re craving breakfast or supper (eating is an all-day affair!), there’s nowhere better to get the best of local food.

💡 Keen on exploring a few hawker centers at one go? Eat your way around town with a guide .

Chinatown complex food centre, recommended by damian d’silva, founder of rempapa —a restaurant known for heritage cooking.

Hawker centers in Singapore were created to house street vendors under one convenient roof. These roadside cooks used to line the tarmac with their mobile kitchens, serving comfort food for migrant laborers, merchants, and clerks back in the day.

Built in 1981, Chinatown Complex Food Centre is Singapore’s largest hawker center with more than 250 stalls. “There are a few second-generation hawkers here—some of their stalls used to operate along the streets right beside the building,” said Damian D’Silva. If you’re visiting the traveler-fave Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum , this lively spot is (literally) a stone's throw away.

D'Silva’s must-try stalls:

Hill Street Fried Kway Teow for char kway teow (stir-fried flat noodles), Jin Ji Teochew Braised Duck and Kway Chap for kway chap (rice sheets served with braised pork cuts), Weng Kiang Kee Porridge for sliced pork porridge, Fatty Ox Hong Kong Kitchen for beef brisket noodles, Lin Da Qiang (林大强) for sweet-sour pork and their fish head dishes.

ABC Brickworks Food Centre

Recommended by pamelia chia, author of wet market to table & writer of the singapore noodles newsletter.

Opened in the 1970s, ABC Brickworks has long been a local favorite with around 100 stalls whipping up a generous variety of dishes. When exploring the Southern Ridges nature trail or gallery hopping at Gillman Barracks , a 10-minute car ride will whisk you here. “It may be a little out of the way, but there’s so much good food to choose from,” shared Pamelia Chia. “One stall I make a beeline for is Jason Penang Cuisine—their prawn noodles do not skimp on flavor.”

Chia’s must-try stalls:

Jin Jin Hot/Cold Desserts for chendol (a dessert made with jellies, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup), Fatty Cheong for barbecued meat, Jason Penang Cuisine for prawn noodles, ThunderBowl Lei Cha for thunder tea rice.

Tekka Centre

Recommended by vasunthara ramasamy, chef and founder of south indian private home dining experience cutlery optional.

Located in the colorful Little India neighborhood, Tekka Centre is a hawker center, wet market, and shopping arcade rolled into one. This is a great place if you’re on the lookout for halal food. Whenever she’s prepping for a feast, Tekka Centre is one of Vasunthara Ramasamy’s go-tos: “I feel alive in this hawker center—there is so much to take in culturally, and makes Singapore seem less of a concrete jungle.”

Vasunthara’s must-try stalls:

Generation Coffee for great Nanyang coffee; 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodles , Jaan West Coast for mee goreng (stir-fried yellow noodles) and white beehoon goreng (stir-fried rice noodles); Noor Asian Food for goreng pisang (fried banana fritters), jemput-jemput (fritters), and sardine curry puff.

Hong Lim Food Centre

Recommended by evelyn chen, food writer and editor who also runs private hawker tours.

It may be set in Chinatown , but Hong Lim Food Centre keeps a quintessentially local vibe as it’s surrounded by public housing flats. For food writer Evelyn Chen, this two-story haven is great for travelers on the hunt for street food. She may have dined at some of the fanciest spots, but hawker centers hold a special place in her heart: “There are fine-dining restaurants all over the world but not many cities have a hawker culture so deeply ingrained in the lives of the people.”

Chen’s must-try stalls:

Tai Wah Pork Noodle for bak chor mee (minced meat noodles), Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee for char kway teow (stir-fried flat noodles), and Qi Xiang Cha Shi (其祥茶室) for kaya (coconut jam) toast and kopi-o (black coffee).

Top 5 tips when visiting Singapore’s hawker centers

1. get a guide to whisk you to the best stalls.

“Navigating Singapore’s hawker scene is complicated unless you do your research properly or get a guide,” said Chen. There are lots of local pros who’ll bring you around the popular hawker centers in just a couple of hours. Besides rounding up the iconic dishes from different spots for travelers, guide Ching Meng Teng from Withlocals dived into the country's vivid cultures and its decades-long obsession with great food.

Popular hawker food tours

2. Customize dishes as you please

“You can make special requests when you order, like asking for less chili or more vinegar. The stall owner will happily make it for you,” shared Chia. If this feels daunting, go ahead and ask the person behind you in the queue to help you out—most Singaporeans will gladly oblige.

3. Come ready with tissues and wet wipes

“Be sure to bring a packet of tissue paper or an umbrella with you to ‘chope’ a table,” said Chen. To “chope” means to reserve a spot at the hawker center—trust that no one else will snatch your seat away. Vasunthara added, “Always bring wet wipes, so you can clean the seats.”

4. Check the timings of your favorite stalls

Vasunthara’s tip: “A hawker center changes from day to night—do your research, plan your time and stomach, and visit when it’s not as crowded.” This could mean heading down during the lull between breakfast and lunch (around 11 a.m.). Leave time to queue for highly-rated dishes. Stalls tend to close when the food sells out.

5. Order a few dishes and share

“Don’t just order one dish. Go with two or three others and share a few dishes among yourselves,” said D’Silva. You can also order a bigger portion, so there’s more to go around. Communal dining is very Singaporean, so you’ll be in good company.

Should you have some time to spare, try taking a short walk beyond the hawker center. You may uncover bustling wet markets, unique sundry stores, or old-school public housing flats—glimpses of everyday living in Singapore that many travelers have yet to discover.

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10 Best Hawker Centres In Singapore

Food is a true highlight of any visit to Singapore. Despite there being so much to do in the city, hunting down good Singaporean food is one of the best things to do with your time. The city-state is a melting pot of cuisines with influences from China, India, Malaysia and Indonesia.

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You might be surprised to discover that the best food in Singapore is not found in fancy and expensive restaurants but, in fact, in food courts, known as hawker centres. These hawker centres are huge, bustling markets full of small food vendors serving up all sorts of traditional foods, as well as more fusion-style dishes. In pricey Singapore, this is among the most budget-friendly ways to enjoy delicious food.

Eating at  hawker stalls in Singapore  is both a cultural and culinary experience not to be missed. Although the prices are low, you’ll notice patrons range from well-dressed business crowds to budget backpackers. 

If you are planning a trip to the city, then here’s a list of the best food courts in Singapore. You should definitely plan on eating each of your meals at one of the best hawker centres in Singapore.

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1. Maxwell Food Centre

The Maxwell Food Centre is a classic Singaporean Hawker Centre – no list of the best Hawker Centres in Singapore would be complete without it. It’s extremely popular with locals and tourists alike and is in the heart of the heritage Chinatown district. The centre is home to over 100 stalls, with lengthy queues at some of them.

Most people head straight for  Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice  (#10/11), which even beat celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay in a cook-off. The chicken rice at this stall is considered the best hawker food in Singapore, and it’s worth lining up for an hour to get. 

Traditional Cantonese  fish head bee hoon soup  is another popular dish to try at the Maxwell Hawker Centre. One of the best bowls of this traditional fish soup can be found at  Jin Hua Fish Head Bee Hoon stall (#77).   Don’t miss the handmade daily tapioca cakes at Xing Xing for a delightful dessert.

The hawker centre is only closed for six hours overnight, meaning it’s open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. However, be aware that most stalls have their own individual opening hours.

READ NEXT:  Insider’s Guide To The Best Food In Singapore

2. Chinatown Complex Food Centre

Chinatown Complex is the largest food centre in the city and one of the best hawker centres in Singapore. You might find yourself getting lost amongst the  260 stalls , which includes the world’s first Michelin star hawker stall. 

The now world-famous vendor is  Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle (#126) , which was awarded a Michelin star in 2016. It’s known as the cheapest Michelin-starred dish in the world, with soy sauce chicken and rice costing just S$2. They usually serve from 10am until 8pm, but arrive early if you want a guaranteed plate.

There’s a variety of traditional street food in Singapore at this hawker centre, though, and you can try any local dish that you want. At lunch time, you’ll see all sorts of people lining up at the stalls, from tourists to local office executives. 

3. Tiong Bahru Food Centre

The  Tiong Bahru Hawker Centre  is located on the second floor of the  Tiong Bahru Singapore Market,  which was refurbished in 2004. The hawker centre has over  80 stalls  and is considered one of the top hawker centres in Singapore. 

A few of the stalls have been awarded Michelin Bib-Gourmand and The Plate awards, and they can usually be singled out by their lengthy queues. 

A breakfast favourite and one of the most popular stalls in the centre is  Jian Bo Shui Kueh (#5),  where you can find the best chwee kueh or steamed rice cakes topped with turnips, shrimp and chilli. 

It’s also worth taking a walk around the neighbourhood surrounding Tiong Bahru market, which has laidback cafes and hipster shops.

4. Amoy Street Food Centre

The  Amoy Street Food Centre  is located in the middle of Chinatown on Maxwell Road and is spread over two floors. It may not be the most well-known hawker centre, but it has some traditionally good hawker food in Singapore. There are even several stalls that have been awarded a Michelin Bib-Gourmand distinction.

It’s definitely the best food court in Singapore for noodle dishes, with a number of top stalls.  A Noodle Story (#39)  serves only one style of noodles, but their reimagined Japanese ramen was awarded a Bib-Gourmand distinction, and they often sell out quickly. 

Hong Kee Beef Noodle (#42)  is another Bib-Gourmand-recognized stall and has been serving beef noodles for over 60 years.

5. Old Airport Road Food Centre

The  Old Airport Road Food Centre  is built on the old runway of Kallang Airport and is the best hawker centre in Singapore for cheap, local food. It’s become more popular with tourists in the past few years, with over  150 stalls  to choose from on the first level and retail stores on the second floor. 

Top dishes include  hokkien mee  (fried yellow wheat noodles in seafood stock with pork and prawns) at  Nam Sing Hokkien Mee (#32)  and  lor mee  (thick flat yellow noodles in starchy gravy) at  Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee (#116) . It’s not necessarily hard to find the best stalls, as most of these top vendors will have lengthy queues.

The  Old Airport Road Food Centre  is repeatedly voted by locals as the  best hawker centre in Singapore,  and it’s a must-visit on your trip.

6. Hong Lim Market & Food Centre

Hong Lim is known as the best food market in Singapore for traditional street food. The food market in Singapore is located beside Chinatown Point and is very easily accessible from downtown. 

There are many long lines and wait times at stalls here, mostly with locals rather than tourists, which is a telling sign that it has good, cheap hawker food in Singapore. Many stalls are still family-run affairs with a range of different traditional dishes.

One of the best stalls here is  Ji Ji Wonton Noodle Specialist (#48),  which has been serving the noodle dish since the 1960s and has been voted as the best hawker stalls in Singapore in the wonton noodle category by locals. 

7. Chomp Chomp Food Centre

This evening’s favourite Singapore Hawker Centre is a bit out of the way in the residential district of Serangoon Gardens. However, it’s popular for some specific street foods of Singapore, including BBQ sambal stingray and BBQ chicken wings. Many of the dishes here are hot and you’ll soon discover that the sugar cane juice stands serve a purpose in quenching your thirst.

One of the best food stalls at Chomp Chomp is  Ah Hock Fried Hokkien Mee (#27) , with their  signature hokkien mee dish  a must-try in the Singapore food court. You’ll have to wait nearly an hour for a plate, though. Out of all the BBQ stalls to choose from, many locals recommend  Chong Pang Huat (#26) , which has particularly good BBQ chicken wings for S$1.40 each.

It’s the best food centre in Singapore for a late-night dinner, with the general opening hours of most stalls from 5pm until midnight. 

7. Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre Aka Telok Ayer Market 

Lau Pa Sat is located in a lovely 19th-century Victorian-era building surrounded by soaring skyscrapers of the inner central business district. There’s enough space here to seat over 2000 diners, with  200 stalls  churning out some of Singapore’s best food. 

This Singapore food market is sometimes known as the  Old Market  and is a famous hawker centre in Singapore for tourists because of its convenient location and beautiful design – no Singapore hawker centre guide can leave it out. If you are foodies who are fond of historical sites, this historic hawker centre is a must-visit in Singapore. Try their delicious satay at stalls like AZ King Satay or Fazlink Satay. Vegetarians can explore NoBak for plant-based delights like the No Meatball Curry Rice Bowl.

The evenings are the best time to visit the food stalls here, with an almost festive atmosphere. The vendors spill out into Boon Tat Street beside the hawker centre, which turns into the ultimate Singapore street food market at night. Satay is king here, with barbecued chicken satay sticks being a top choice. 

8. Tekka Centre

The Tekka Hawker Center Singapore is set right in the heart of Little India. It’s easy to reach as it’s just outside the MRT Station. There is a range of North and South Indian stalls here where you can sample some of the best street food in Singapore from South Asia. Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Maxwell Food Center, where you can savour the Peanut Porridge from Zhu Jiao Shu Shi.

The best dishes here include  mutton biryani, crispy dosas  (South Indian savoury crepe) and rich, flavourful  curries . It’s popular with the local Indian, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan communities and has a vibrant atmosphere that is reminiscent of South Asia. It is truly worthy to be called one of the best hawker centres in Singapore when it comes to Indian food. 

There’s almost an entire row of stalls dedicated to biryani, with it being the most popular dish to try at this food court in Singapore.  Allaudin’s Biryani (#229)  is widely considered one of the best stalls for the popular South Asian dish. 

9. Newton Food Centre 

In Singapore, no matter the economic boom or futuristic skyline, food, especially hawker delights, defines the culture. The flashiest hawker centre may get mixed reviews, but locals, including those in “Crazy Rich Asians”, flock to Newton Food Centre for Michelin-starred local delights. Newton, a horseshoe-shaped complex, draws design inspiration from nearby colonial-era terrace homes. The stalls encircle a courtyard adorned with umbrella-shaped tables, palms, and over 50 species of flowers. 

Alliance Seafood (#01-27, closed Wednesdays) is a Michelin-listed spot famous for its chilli crab. Next door, Heng Carrot Cake (#01-28, open after 5 p.m.) is another Michelin-listed eatery serving a beloved late-night snack: carrot cake, a savoury Chinese dish made from steamed rice flour and radish fried with garlic and eggs. The black style, coloured with dark soya sauce, is particularly tasty.

10. Airport Road Food Centre

Airport Road Food Centre is a long-time local favourite, named after a road to Singapore’s first airport, located about 4 miles east of the centre. With over 150 stalls, it offers a relaxed atmosphere away from the city’s hustle. To get here, you can take the MRT to Mountbatten, then stroll east under shaded sidewalks. Despite the confusion, continue past the smaller Kallang hawker centre. 

Try wonton soups, char kway teow, prawn noodles, halal Indian dishes, “Aunty Oats pancakes,” soya bean desserts, popiah, and kaya toast. The popular Xin Mei Xiang Zheng Zong Lor Mee (#01-116) may have long lines, but for a quicker option, check out Ru Ji Mee Noodles (#01-37) for a delightful bowl of spiced thick egg noodles with fish balls and fishcakes.

10. Adam Road Food Centre

Die-hard fans of nasi lemak should visit Adam Road Food Centre, the centre underwent renovation in December 2023, offering a fresh hawker experience. Adam Road Food Centre has a cozy neighbourhood vibe amidst greenery with the Botanic Gardens nearby. Despite its small size, it buzzes with a delightful food court atmosphere during mealtimes. Unlike some predominantly Chinese hawker centres, Adam Road offers a diverse mix, featuring many Malay and Indian hawker stalls. You can get your share of some other local delights like the delicious wanton mee (egg noodles with dumplings), char kway teow, and the infamous chwee kueh (steamed rice cakes).

Try Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak, colloquially known as Adam Road Nasi Lemak, is a household name for its delectable nasi lemak and infamous succulent prawn noodles. With nearly three decades of service, Adam Road Food Centre hawker stall is a top choice for authentic Singaporean fare, featuring a local vibe, no-frills seating, and a quick, get-in, get-out atmosphere.

Have You Ever Been To Any Of The Best Hawker Centers In Singapore? Which One Is Your Favourite?

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Singapore’s hawker centres: a beginner’s guide

Jul 17, 2019 • 6 min read

Preparing home-cooked chilly crab for dinner © SamuelBrownNG / Getty Images

With their plethora of choices and chaotic pace, Singapore ’s hawker centres can seem daunting at first. But with a bit of savvy, you can navigate the city’s famous fast-food palaces like a pro. Here’s a quick guide to the dishes and the best places to have a tasty meal.

Before you head to the closest hawker stall, make sure to chope (save) yourself a seat by placing a tiny packet of tissues either on the table or on the seat itself. You’ll often find some of Singapore’s less privileged selling packets at the entrance, or you can pick some up at the closest 7Eleven store – the wet ones are the best for wiping your hands post-meal. Once choped , make note of the table number as you’ll need to quote this if the food stall of your choice delivers; if you spot a ‘self service’ sign, you’ll need to wait patiently for your food. Take cash, ideally small notes.

Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, pack your dishes and deposit them at the tray return area. If your stash of tissues hasn’t cut it, head for the toilets – most centres have large hand-washing areas where you can clean up.

What to eat

Hawker centres are the epitome of Singapore’s melting-pot culture. At all centres, you can expect to find dishes from the island’s main ethnic groups: Chinese, Malay, Indian and Indonesian, with a handful of Western, Japanese and Korean stalls (to name a few) thrown into the mix. The best stalls often have long lines but don’t let that deter you; dishes are usually whipped up pretty fast and the wait is rarely longer than 30 minutes.

Crab: Chilli crab is arguably Singapore’s most famous dish. It’s typically served in a slightly spicy, sweet-and-sour tomato-based sauce, but if you’re looking to try something more adventurous, order a white- or black-pepper crab. A 1kg crab will feed two people; don’t forget to order some mantous (steamed or deep-fried buns), which are perfect for mopping up the leftover sauce.

Chicken rice: This somewhat simple-looking dish of chicken served on a bed of fragrant rice with chilli and ginger paste was deemed worthy of a shiny Michelin star in 2016. Head to Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle in the Chinatown Complex to try the Michelin-starred dish for yourself, but be prepared for a substantial wait. The chicken is either served ‘white’ (poached) or ‘black’ (roasted or braised in soy sauce). Don’t be surprised if your chicken is cold; it’s been chilled in ice to ensure maximum succulence.

Kaya toast: This is the breakfast of the nation. Grilled slices of white bread are filled with a pat of salty butter and smear of sweet kaya (coconut jam), and are usually ordered as part of a ‘breakfast set’ that includes two soft-boiled eggs and a cup of traditional kopi (coffee). To eat, crack the eggs into the bowl, add a dash of soy sauce and white pepper, then mix and dip the kaya toast into it. It’s typically available from the drink stalls which also hawk soft drinks, juices and beer.

Char kway teow: The cooking of the flat, wide rice noodles in this dish takes some serious skill to perfect; if handled poorly, it has a tendency to mush into one giant sticky mess. The noodles take on a charred flavour from the wok, which is enhanced by sweet dark soy sauce. Additional ingredients typically include egg, Chinese sausage, bean sprouts, clams and spring onions.

Satay: Holy smokes, you won’t want to miss scoffing down some perfectly charred satay hot off the grill! A minimum order of 10 sticks is common and many stalls let your mix and match your meats, which include chicken, beef, mutton and prawn. Marinated for hours, the succulent meats practically melt into your mouth, and with the addition of the moreish crunchy peanut dipping sauce it’s hard to stop at just 10 sticks.

Hokkien mee: This is one of Singapore’s most loved aromatic noodle dishes. You’ll find bean sprouts, eggs, pieces of squid and juicy prawns hidden amongst your plate of wriggly yellow egg and white-rice noodles. The side of chillis and calamansi (citrus fruit) mean you can add as much spice or sourness as you like.

Nasi lemak: Infused with coconut milk and pandan leaves, the creamy rice is the standout star of this dish. Served with a plethora of sides including – but not limited to –  sambal (chilli paste), bilis (fried anchovies), fried egg and sliced cucumber. Complete your meal with deep-fried fish or chicken wings, otah (grilled fish cake) or some rendang curry; it’s like your own personal buffet on a plate that tastes oh-so-good.

Sambal stingray : Slathered with sambal  and barbecued in a banana leaf, the fleshy stingray wings are the perfect blend of smokey meat and crispy skin. Add some cincalok (condiment of fermented shrimps, chillis, shallots and lime juice) and a squeeze of calamansi  for the full taste experience that has Singaporeans raving. Be warned: most locals like their sambal spicy!

Roti prata: These fluffy, fried South Indian flatbreads may be responsible for many a bulging waistline, but they’re so worth every calorie. Served with a dish of spicy curry sauce, they come in many different flavours, the most popular being plain – egg and cheese. Those wanting to indulge their sweet tooth should opt for the banana and chocolate flavour. Make sure to get ones hot off the grill for maximum crunch.

Rojak: Possibly the closest thing you’ll find resembling a salad in Singapore, this crunchy, sweet and spicy dish is a messy mix of vegetable, fruit and dough fritter pieces lathered in a dark prawn paste, tamarind and chilli sauce. Completed with a topping of crushed peanut pieces, this sticky hodgepodge really does taste much better than it looks.

Carrot cake: Forget the sweet carrot cake you’re probably used to, as this dish is neither a cake nor contains carrot. Instead, it’s made by stir-frying pieces of steamed ‘radish cake’ (white radish and rice flour) in a wok with garlic, eggs, preserved radish and seasonings. There are two versions, black and white; the former is sweeter as it’s cooked with the addition of sweet dark soy sauce.

Where to go

Hawker centres are found all over the island; however, here are a few of the best places to get you started on your gastronomic adventure: Chinatown Complex , Lau Pa Sat , Maxwell Food Centre , Newton Food Centre , East Coast Lagoon Food Village and Gluttons Bay .

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10 Best Singapore Hawker Centres

Our favorite hawker stalls in singapore.

The best hawker center in Singapore is a hotly contested title, and it’s true you can ask 10 different people and get a different answer each time. Singapore ans are passionate about their food, which means the only way to find out which is the best hawker center in Singapore is to try them all yourself. However, with our wealth of experience of eating in hawker stalls across Singapore, we have compiled this list, complete with locations, tips on what to eat and a general explanation of price.

For the uninitiated, Singapore hawker centres are basically large food courts with stalls around the perimeter serving everything from full meals to snacks and drinks. You’ll usually find a selection of local dishes as well as flavors from across the world, including Chinese, Malay, Indian, and western. The mood is vibrant, the dishes are cheap, and enjoying lunch in a tightly packed hawker center is a genuine Singaporean experience not to be missed.

Lau Pa Sat Hawker Center

Your taxi driver might not tell you that Lau Pa Sat is the best hawker center in Singapore – they’ll probably say it’s too crowded and not what is used to be – but it's certainly the most popular. It's also the biggest, seating up to 2,500 people. 

Located right in the heart of the Central Business District and walking distance from Chinatown and Marina Bay, this 120-year-old building is comprised of huge cast-iron frames that were originally shipped from Scotland. The place is huge too, so expect to find a vast range of food from all over the world. Prices are inflated a little due to its close proximity to the CBD and recent renovation, but most basic rice and noodle dishes come in at around $S5-7. It's also known as Telok Ayer Market.

Location: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582

Old Airport Road Food Center

The Old Airport Road Food Center is not particularly pretty, but this isn't a beauty contest. Located a little outside the city center and not that well-frequented by tourists, this 30-year-old food center is widely considered by locals to be the best hawker center in Singapore, both in terms of value, and more importantly: taste.

Specialties here include the satay noodles, char kway teow (noodle dish), and rojak (an Indonesian fruit/vegetable salad). Prices are consistent with the rest of Singapore’s hawker centres, with a basic noodle soup costing less than $S5 – though you can pay more like $S10 for larger meat-based dishes.

Location: Block 51, Old Airport Road, Geyland, Singapore

Open: Daily from 6 am to 11 pm

Phone: +65 6756 0266

photo by Orderinchaos ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

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Loof Rooftop Bar

Maxwell road hawker center.

Located in Chinatown, Maxwell Road Food Center is inevitably one of the best places to come in Singapore for cheap Chinese food. Must-try dishes include the classic Hainanese chicken and rice, as well as the fried oyster omelet, and hearty fish broth.

There are over 100 stalls, but seating isn’t particularly generous, so you might have to wait for a seat a peak times (during lunch times on weekdays). You probably won’t pay much more than $S4 for a plate of rice and chicken or bowl of noodles, whilst the stalls selling grilled meat and specialty seafood charge around $S8-10 for some dishes.

Location: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore

Open: Daily from 8 am to 10 pm

Chinatown Food Street

It’s rare to find a bad hawker center in Singapore in terms of the quality of the food, but some do tend to be a little bit rough in terms of appearance. Chinatown Food Street is not certainly not one of them, though – this row of renovated shop houses and stalls can be found all under one shiny new glass roof, and is an extension of the popular Chinatown Night Market.

The emphasis here is firmly on the Chinese flavors, with roasted duck with rice or noodles being the choice dish. However, satay skewers, as well as grilled meat and seafood, also prove popular. The crowd is quite touristy so expect to pay a few dollars more than your average hawker center in Singapore.

Location: 335 Smith Street, Singapore

Open: Daily from 11 am to 11 pm

photo by Marcin Konsek ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Tiong Bahru Market

Tiong Bahru Market is famous for being one of the best hawker centres in Singapore for breakfast and brunch. Many of the stalls here open as early as 7am and close quite early too, meaning it’s the ideal spot for your first meal of the day.

That said, you might want to wait until lunchtime to indulge in the best of what Tiong Bahru has to offer as it’s mostly meat based. Go for the roasted duck, pork ribs with noodles, boiled pork leg or stick with a simple Hainanese chicken over rice and you can’t go wrong. Prices are cheap too, with basic noodle and rice dishes starting from $S3.

Location: 30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore

Open: Daily from 7 am (stalls close at various times in the afternoon and evening)

photo by Terence Ong ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Tekka Center

This 3-storey complex lies at the gateway to Little India on Serangoon Road, and is one of the best hawker centres in Singapore to find cheap and generously portioned curries, with the overwhelming dish of choice being Biryani.

Though a little bit rough around the edges, the local Indian crowds that flock here for their fill is a clue to the quality of the food. Biryani dishes – complete with rice, a choice of chicken or mutton, poppadum and sauces typically cost between $S6-8. If you’re feeling brave you can also try your hand (quite literally) at eating like the locals do: ditch your spoon and folk and scoop up the curry into your mouth using just your right hand!

Location: 665 Buffalo & Serangoon Roads, Singapore

Open: Daily from 6.30 am to 10 pm

photo by Nick-D ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Singapore Food Treats

Lying in the shadow of the giant Singapore Flyer that towers into the sky above, the Singapore Food Treats is a modern hawker center that features lots of props and nostalgic decor, creating a 1960s Singapore theme.

The range of food stalls isn’t the most comprehensive in Singapore, but this spot is well worth a visit purely for its central location and fun atmosphere. As well as all the delicious food, there's also a mini antique shop as well as a pleasant garden area underneath the Flyer.

Location: #01-09/12, Singapore Flyer 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore

Open: 10.30 am to 10.20 pm

Chomp Chomp Hawker Center

Chomp Chomp Singapore – also known as the Serangoon Gardens Food Center – is one of the famous hawker centres in Singapore among locals. Due to its location outside the city center, near Bishan, Chomp Chomp isn’t usually included in your average Singapore guidebook.

That’s not to say Chomp Chomp doesn’t get busy. Come in the evening to witness the place buzzing, with chefs preparing freshly grilled stingray, barbecued chicken wings, noodle broths and sticks of juicy satay right in front of you.

Location: 20 Kensington Road, Singapore

Open: Daily from 6 pm to midnight

photo by ProjectManhattan ( CC0 1.0 ) modified

Makansutra Gluttons Bay

If you enjoy a meal with a view, Makansutra Gluttons Bay is probably the best hawker center in Singapore. Whilst the food choice is sturdy (must-tries here include the chilli crab, oyster omelet and rotis), the location is Glutton’s main selling point. Situated right by the bay, the views across the water are fantastic.

The nearby Esplanade Theatre also put on regular street performances to entertain you while you eat. This hawker center is open-air and one the latest to close for the night in Singapore – so if you’re after some late-night fills (as late as 3am on the weekend) Makansutra Gluttons Bay is a good bet.

Location: #01-15, Esplanade Mall 8 Raffles Ave, Singapore

Open: Monday–Thursday from 5 pm to 2 am, Friday–Saturday from 5 pm to 3 am, Sunday 4 pm to 1 am

photo by Terence ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Satay by the Bay

One of the best attractions in Singapore is Gardens by the Bay, with its famous SuperTree Grove and more recent additions of the spectacular Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. If you’re heading this way – which you should at least once in Singapore, don’t forget to save room for a trip to Satay by the Bay, which is located within the park. Of course, the specialty here is satay skewers.

The air is filled with aromas from barbecued pork, chicken and beef, which is all served up with a generous helping of that rich peanut sauce. There’s also an onsite bar and plenty of other food stalls if you’re not a fan of satay. Find it by entering Gardens by the Bay (free) and follow the signposted route along the water’s edge – or jump on the free shuttle bus.

Location: Gardens by the Bay 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

Open: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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5 Hawker Centres You Must Visit When In Singapore

Singapore's hawker centres are more than just a part of the country's heritage, they are a lifeline offering authentic, affordable meals that reflect cultural diversity..

• Singapore has an obsession with hawker centres
• They offer authentic meals that are affordable too
• Here are five of the best ones you must visit

Here Are 5 Hawker Centres You Must Visit In Singapore:

1. maxwell food centre.

2. Lau Pa Sat

3. Changi Village Hawker Centre

4. Tekka Centre

5. Tiong Bahru Market

About Ashwin Rajagopalan I am the proverbial slashie - a content architect, writer, speaker and cultural intelligence coach. School lunch boxes are usually the beginning of our culinary discoveries.That curiosity hasn’t waned. It’s only got stronger as I’ve explored culinary cultures, street food and fine dining restaurants across the world. I’ve discovered cultures and destinations through culinary motifs. I am equally passionate about writing on consumer tech and travel.

• Singapore Food
• Singapore Cuisine
• Singapore Hawker

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Maxwell Food Centre

Review Highlights

“ This Hawker Center was the first one I hit up on my quick 24hr trip to Singapore, and it was well worth it. ” in 39 reviews

“ it's always busy, we had the chicken and rice from tian tian , it was incredibly cheap and ridiculously good.. ” in 38 reviews

“ The rice was packed with so much flavor and wasn't dried out compared to other chicken rice spots I've tried. ” in 46 reviews

Location & Hours

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1 Kadayanallur St

Singapore 069184

Tanjong Pagar

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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
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Overall rating

279 reviews

5 stars! Definitely worth the trip here if you are visiting Singapore! It houses the incredibly famous Tian Tian Hainan chicken stall featured on Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations. Trust Anthony and his impeccable taste by ordering the large portion and pairing it was the super tasty ginger spicy sauce! Also, within the same hawker center, is the the roast pig and cha siu rice combo that is located the next 2 rows over. I don't know what it is called because the name is in Chinese...just look for the glass display filled with roast duck, pork, and cha siu and that infamous line! Any stall with a line is worth getting into! If you don't know, ask the locals because they are all serious about their food and know what's good. Keep in mind though, this is an outdoor est

One of my favorite hawker centres in Singapore, with Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice as an always-delicious meal, and an ever-present line that moves surprisingly quickly. Several other delicious places such as Lao Ban Soya Beancurd and Ah Tai Hainanese Chicken Rice as well. Not sure why but I think I prefer this place to Hong Lim, to Newton, or to Lau Pa Sat, although almost all hawker centres have at least one really, really tasty place. Ambiance is typical hawker stall, nicely covered tables and a single-story layout that actually means fairly good airflow at the side aisles, a bit less so on the interior aisles, but still comfortable enough (all things considered) with the high ceiling. Seating during busy hours can be a challenge and they're right on top of an MRT station, although to be fair it never seems to be the MRT station I actually alight from when coming here. And the bathrooms are, well, it's a hawker centre.

When in Singapore...you really should come here. Inexpensive, relative to restaurants, and foods that the locals eat. There are many stalls, and I can't cover them all. We got food from two or three of them. The foods were simple but good. Finding a seat can be a challenge, especially during "rush" times. But if you want to experience the "hawker" stands, and get some good food, come here at least once.

Tian Tian chicken rice

There are multiple tourist must eat disks are in this location. The hawker center is right on the exit of MRT. Just across the Chinatown and surrounded by all other small restaurants in the area. Bring cash and cash. You will need it. Also, bring wet tissues and you will need. it. Recommend go with friends, so after you decide what to order, then one person secure sit and other get foods. You don't need to know Chinese, just point with fingers. If you are looking for dinner then try to get there before 5pm on weekday. The weekend always pack with people. There are some shop close at 3pm or when they sold out their supply. You will not able to try everything in one day. Everyone is taking video and photos on their food and the shop. So, don't wear anything too fancy and keep it simple. It is always very warm as you starting to eat. It is a must visit place in SG.

Maxwell Food Center... Very accessible to the MAXWELL MRT Station (TE18). Tourist area ish since just across the street is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. So far, it's doable in my books. Personally, I have to go here more frequently on different time slots. Perhaps from there, my review might differ. My favorite vendor is the APPAM stall run by a lovely Vietnamese Lady. Every single time I am at Maxwell Food Center, I will order the APPAM from her. Next is the Avocado Beverage vendor, who I always purchase my beverage order from this stall. My recent visit to Maxwell was on Saturday, March 2nd 2024. All in all, it is a doable Hawker to visit. Though I can not deny it is a TOURIST spot NOT as HUGE as compared to NEWTON Hawker Center.. It can get crowded during the PEAK WEEKDAY Lunch Rush Hour or the Weekends. From the FAMOUS Chicken Rice stall or some other Chinese cuisine/food, there are always "snaking" queues from these "well-known" vendors. Hence, plan accordingly.

See all photos from Riza H. C. for Maxwell Food Centre

As others have noted, this particular hawker center is home to Tien Tien chicken and rice, which is worth the visit alone. (Not open on Monday's) It is a bit more crowded than some of the other hawker centers I visited, but as long as you don't mind sharing a table with new friends it does need t detract from the experience. There is an ATM for your convenience at one end since credit cards are not accepted at most of the vendors. (Grab pay is for many though)

First hawker centre I stopped at during my trip to Singapore. Tried a lot of local dishes and all were amazing, but bring your own napkins!!! I couldn't find any here. Food to try: 1. Popiah-- pretty much their version of spring roll here. I requested the spicy version and it did not disappoint. Highly recommend! 2. Satay -- minimum 10 sticks but you can mix and match the types of meat. Note though, don't get the rice wrapped in banana leaves. They steamed it once and it's not heated or reheated after. Basically cold rice, so I would avoid. 3. hainan chicken -- super good here and it comes with all the sauces, rice, and soup. Highly recommend as it's like their national food. 4. Soup dumpling (xiao long bao) & spicy wonton -- these are pretty decent if you want some Chinese food! My friend was craving it and devoured them even though we just stopped by Taiwan. Make sure to return your dishes/trays to the area in the middle that says "tray return". There are sinks in the back to wash your hands as well. Overall a really good hawker Centre to try for your first time!

See all photos from Annie W. for Maxwell Food Centre

With over a hundred stalls, what should you choose? Teh (tea). Kopi (local coffee). Curries. Porridge. Red bean-filled fritters. Soup. But in the end, it comes back to just one main choice... Who makes the best Hainanese Chicken Rice? Do you go for the Michelin stars and the mile long que? Or do you hit the local favorite that is literally two booths down? Or both? Tian Tian or Ah Tai. Too full from breakfast to order two, so went with a choice from Jando. That was my Houston Yelp CM's top recommendation which was echoed by our Indie Singapore tour guide. Ah Tia Hainanese Chicken Rice was so delicious. Moist poached chicken. Rice flavored with chicken broth. Savory thick soy sauce. Vinegared chili...and a bowl of warm chicken broth. Bring cash. Each meal is about $5 USD. So delicious. Hawker markets trace their roots to the early 1800s in Singapore. During that time, street vendors known as hawkers sold their tasty dishes as they travelled from street to street. Over time, the hawker system became organized into more regulated booths. Today, the hawker centers are a great way to enjoy a delicious meal for a reasonable price. In fact, Singapore's hawker centers received an UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 2020. So, definitely visit the Maxwell Food Centre in Singapore. Grab a table. Bring cash. Order a delicious meal...and make sure to clean your table. If not, you may get a hefty fine.

See all photos from Helene S. for Maxwell Food Centre

This was our 5th or 6th time in Singapore n we always went to the food court in Chinatown located on Smith n Sago street. We went there n were so disappointed the whole food court was gone it must have been the Covid pandemic destroying the economy n the hawkers never came back. I was so frustrated as we paid $120 pp at the Park Royal for a buffet that I could not eat so I told my husband we'll walk till we find a food court. I was shocked so many people didn't speak any English. I checked Yelp n found this place. It looked dirty n I had to have a fist fight lol w my husband to get him to go in. Unfortunately Singaporean food is not Cantonese, their cuisine is so different, mostly fish n weird flavor I could not eat, they didn't have wonton soup but dumpling w strange veggie n spices. The satay was much better than the hotel but not as good as Thai satay. The juicery was a godsend, I was so thirsty n had a freshly pressedOJ n pineapple for s2. Overall it's still 4 stars as restaurants prices are insane n 18% tax!! Most people dine at food courts n this one is great.

See all photos from Cheryl N. for Maxwell Food Centre

Amazing array of food stalls to choose from. This is a self service food centre, like a food court and they have kept the tables clean and tidy. The ambiance is nice as well

91 other reviews that are not currently recommended

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8 Must-Try Eateries at Toa Payoh Central in 2024

T oa Payoh Central, nestled in the heart of Singapore, is not just a bustling hub of commerce and activity but also a haven for food enthusiasts. With its diverse culinary landscape, this vibrant neighbourhood offers a plethora of dining options that cater to every palate and preference. From traditional hawker fare to modern gastronomic delights, Toa Payoh Central promises a culinary journey like no other. Here, we delve into 10 must-try eateries that promise to tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more in 2024.

As a quintessential Singaporean experience, a visit to Toa Payoh Central is incomplete without indulging in the offerings of its hawker centres. Toa Payoh Lorong 5 Hawker Centre stands out with its array of local delicacies, including the iconic chicken rice, aromatic laksa, and flavorful rojak.

Address: 75 Lor. 5 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310075

Phone: +65 6225 5632

Known for its savoury Hokkien mee, Kim Keat Hokkien Mee is a must-visit for lovers of stir-fried noodles. Prepared with a delectable combination of seafood, pork, and a rich, savoury sauce, their rendition of this classic dish is bound to leave you craving for more.

Address: 92 Lor 4 Toa Payoh, #01-264, Singapore 310092

Phone: +65 9011 4400

For those with a sweet tooth, Creamier is the ultimate destination for artisanal ice cream and delectable desserts. Indulge in a myriad of flavors, from classic vanilla to innovative creations, and savor the creamy goodness that this beloved dessert parlour has to offer.

Address: 131 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, #01-02, Singapore 310131

Phone: +65 8882 5106

Embark on a culinary journey to Indonesia with a visit to Istimewa Nasi Padang. Feast on an array of authentic Indonesian dishes, from aromatic beef rendang to spicy ayam penyet, and immerse yourself in the rich and diverse flavours of Indonesian cuisine.

Address: 470 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, #02-70 Fork & Spoon Foodcourt, Singapore 310470

Phone: +65 9424 6884

Dive into a world of culinary delights at Gourmet Paradise Food Court, where a diverse range of cuisines awaits. From local favourites to international fare, this food court offers something for every palate, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Address: 480 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, #B1- 01 HDB Hub, Singapore 310480

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Singaporean market at Toa Payoh Vista Market. Here, you’ll find an array of stalls offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and authentic flavours that capture the essence of Singaporean cuisine.

Address: 74 Lor 4 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310074

Indulge in a leisurely brunch or a cosy dinner at The Larder Cafe, a charming eatery known for its delicious fare and inviting ambience. From hearty breakfast classics to indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Address: Blk 177 Toa Payoh Central, #01-124, Singapore 310177

Phone: +65 6253 8382

Savour the flavours of the sea at Kelly Jie Seafood, a renowned seafood restaurant in Toa Payoh Central. Feast on fresh seafood dishes prepared with skill and expertise, and immerse yourself in the tantalising flavours of Singapore’s culinary heritage.

Address: 211 Lor 8 Toa Payoh, #01-11/15 Block 211, Singapore 310211

Phone: +65 6353 3120

Toa Payoh Central in 2024 is a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you’re craving local delights, international cuisines, or sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighbourhood. So, embark on a gastronomic journey and discover the myriad flavours that Toa Payoh Central has to offer.