Must-try Dishes
Nasi Lemak - Coconut Rice (scented rice dish) - Fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled eggs. This is often enjoyed for breakfast, and you might see locals ordering it from hawker centers for a quick start to their day.
Char Kway Teow - Stir-fried Rice Noodles (wok-fried noodles) - A tantalizing mix of flat rice noodles, shrimp, Chinese sausage, and egg cooked in a hot wok, resulting in a smoky flavor. It's the go-to street food at night markets where people gather for supper.
Chicken Rice - Hainanese Chicken Rice (poached chicken dish) - Silky, tender chicken served with fragrant rice and a variety of dipping sauces. Locals often enjoy it for lunch, sometimes sharing a table at popular spots where you might overhear passionate discussions about the best chicken rice.
Chicken Satay - Satay Ayam (grilled skewers) - Juicy marinated chicken skewers grilled over an open flame and served with peanut sauce. It's a communal dish often shared among friends at barbecues or hawker centers, emphasizing the social nature of Singaporean dining.
Chili Crab - Chili Crab (spicy crab dish) - Fresh crab simmered in a rich, spicy tomato and chili sauce, which is as messy as it is delicious. Enjoy it during dinner, often served with mantou (fried buns) to soak up the sauce, and be prepared for the messy fingers!
Pandan Coconut Rice - Nasi Ulam (aromatic rice dish) - Fragrant rice mixed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and coconut. This seasonal dish is often highlighted during family gatherings, with each home offering their unique touch.
Roti Prata - Roti Prata (crispy flatbread) - Flaky, layered flatbread typically served with curry for dipping. A popular late-night snack, locals savor it after hours, showcasing the multi-cultural influence in Singapore's food scene.
Oyster Omelette - Orh Jian (savory egg dish) - A thick omelette packed with fresh oysters, starch for a crispy base, and often served with a spicy sauce. Frequented during late evenings at hawker centers, this dish offers a satisfying bite after a night out.
Desserts & Drinks
Kopi - 咖啡 (local coffee) - Strong black coffee brewed using a sock-like filter, typically sweetened with condensed milk. Kopi is often enjoyed in the mornings alongside breakfast at kopitiams (traditional coffee shops), where it serves as a local ritual to kickstart the day.
Teh Tarik - 撑座茶 (pulled tea) - A smooth blend of black tea and condensed milk, skillfully ‘pulled’ back and forth between two cups to create a frothy top. Locals often sip it after their meals, and the dramatic pouring action is both a skill and a show—be prepared for a little splash!
Chendol - 珍多 (shaved ice dessert) - A refreshing treat made from shaved ice topped with pandan-flavored green jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar. Typically enjoyed in the hot afternoons, it’s a popular choice during hawker meals. Just a tip: watch for the right texture; it should be super smooth!
Onde Onde - ondeh ondeh (glutinous rice balls) - Chewy rice balls filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut, giving them a sweet and slightly salty flavor. Typically served at festive occasions, these little delights are best enjoyed fresh, when the gooey center bursts with sweetness.
Beers and Ciders - Local Brews (artisan beverages) - Craft beers and ciders made by local breweries have taken off recently, perfect for relaxing after a long day. Often enjoyed in a chilled glass at local bars, they’re popular on a Friday night when the workweek comes to a close. Just don't ask for them by generic brands; locals love to brag about their favorites!
By the way, if you’re planning to try these treats, stop by a hawker center in the late afternoon; it’s when you’ll find the vibe buzzing with locals unwinding from the day.
