Singapore is known for its hawker centers, bustling street food markets where locals and tourists alike can sample a variety of dishes at affordable prices. From traditional local dishes to international flavors, hawker centers are a must-visit destination for any foodie visiting the island. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hawker centers in Singapore and highlight some of the tastiest street food dishes you can find.
Maxwell Food Centre
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Maxwell Food Centre is one of the most popular hawker centers in Singapore. Here, you’ll find an array of local dishes such as chicken rice, satay, and laksa, as well as international cuisine such as Korean and Japanese dishes. One of the must-try dishes at Maxwell is the Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, which is consistently ranked as one of the best in the city.
Tiong Bahru Market
Tiong Bahru Market is a food lover’s paradise, with over 80 food stalls serving up some of the best hawker food in the city. Popular dishes include chwee kueh, a steamed rice cake topped with preserved radish, and fried carrot cake, a savory dish made with radish cake and eggs. Be sure to try the char siew (barbecue pork) and roasted meat from Fatty Ox and Xin Mei Xiang Zheng Zong Lor Mee, a thick Hokkien-style noodle dish.
Chomp Chomp Food Centre
Chomp Chomp Food Centre is a popular hawker center located in Serangoon Gardens, known for its barbecue seafood and satay. Some of the must-try dishes include the BBQ stingray, sambal stingray, and oyster omelet. For a sweet treat, try the famous Chendol, a refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and green jelly noodles.
Old Airport Road Food Centre
Old Airport Road Food Centre is a sprawling hawker center that’s been around since the 1970s. With over 150 food stalls, this hawker center is a favorite among locals for its affordable and delicious food. Some of the popular dishes include the Hokkien mee, a dish of stir-fried noodles and seafood, and the fried carrot cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the durian pancakes from Jin Jin Dessert, a sweet and creamy treat made with the famously pungent fruit.
Amoy Street Food Centre
Located in the Central Business District, Amoy Street Food Centre is a popular lunchtime destination for office workers. Some of the must-try dishes include the Hainanese curry rice, a hearty dish of rice topped with various curries and sides, and the nasi lemak, a fragrant coconut rice dish served with a variety of accompaniments. For something sweet, try the kueh from HarriAnn’s Delight, a traditional Peranakan dessert made with rice flour and coconut milk.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s hawker centers are an essential part of the city’s food culture, offering a diverse range of dishes at affordable prices. Whether you’re a fan of local cuisine or international flavors, there’s something for everyone at these bustling street food markets. With so many delicious dishes to try, it’s no wonder that hawker centers are a favorite among both locals and tourists alike. Also learn about The Evolution of Singapore’s Food Culture: From Hawker Centers to Michelin Stars.
