When exploring Singapore, don’t miss out on trying a variety of local dishes, from beloved favorites to delicious and affordable eats. Which Singaporean culinary delights are your favorites? Although Singapore may not have as many food options as Indonesia, its culinary scene is definitely worth exploring!
For those who are tired of shopping or other tourist attractions in Singapore, diving into its food scene is a must-do activity. This is why I recommend sampling Singaporean cuisine, especially for travelers on a budget or backpackers.
With a population made up primarily of Chinese, Indian, and Malay ethnicities, Singapore’s food offerings are incredibly diverse. Here are 7 Singaporean dishes I tried during my trip:
1. Laksa Noodles – My Favorite Singaporean Dish!
At Woodland Center’s food court in Singapore, a vendor with a Malaysian accent called this dish Laksa Noodles, also known locally as Mee Laksa. Although similar dishes are found in Indonesia, the Laksa in Singapore is renowned, especially in Malaysia and Singapore.
This Laksa consists of noodles mixed with various seafood and fried tofu, all simmered in a rich, slightly orange soup. The most enjoyable part is the flavorful, thick broth.
2. Fish Ball Soup – A Singaporean Dish Similar to Indonesian Meatballs, but Made from Fish
This Singaporean dish resembles Indonesian meatballs, but it is made from fish rather than meat. Although the white fish balls reminded me of my favorite Malang meatballs, the taste was distinctively different.
3. Hot Pot Noodles – A Unique Presentation of Singaporean Food!
Hot Pot Noodles intrigued me with its unique presentation. It features noodles similar to instant noodles but tastier, served in a large bowl of soup with various seafood, kept hot by a small flame underneath. The large portion for 4 SGD is worth it.
4. Thosai – A Singaporean Dish with Indian Roots!
Originally called Dosa in India, it’s known as Thosai in Singapore. I tried Masala Thosai, which is an Indian-style bread filled with spicy potatoes and onions. It’s a flavorful dish for those who enjoy spiced food.
5. Nasi Lemak – A Dish from a Neighboring Country!
Originally from Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is also a must-try in Singapore due to the significant Malay community. This dish, often served for breakfast with chicken, egg, and sambal, is similar to Nasi Uduk but with a richer flavor.
6. Ice Kacang – A Perfect Singaporean Treat for Hot Days
Although originating from Malaysia, Ice Kacang is also popular in Singapore. Initially just shaved ice with red beans, it now includes various toppings like nuts, fruits, cendol, jelly, corn, syrup, and ice cream. It’s a refreshing dessert for a hot day.
7. Ice Cream Sandwich – A Singaporean Favorite!
This Ice Cream Sandwich is not related to Android devices but is a sandwich-style ice cream sold by street vendors across Singapore. With various flavors and a price of only 1 SGD, it’s a great treat for a hot day.
Where to Find Affordable Singaporean Food?
There are numerous places to explore, especially food courts, if you’re looking for cheap eats in Singapore. Here are some recommendations:
- D’Laksa (Cantine, Causeway Point): 1 Woodlands Square, Level 7 Bagus Foodcourt. Nearest MRT: Woodlands.
- 328 Katong Laksa: 51 E Coast Rd, popular for Laksa. Nearest MRT: Eunos / Dakota.
- Maxwell Food Centre: 1 Kadayanallur St, known for street food like chicken rice and dim sum. Nearest MRT: Maxwell.
- Albert Center Bugis: 270 Queen St, bustling area with various affordable food stalls. Nearest MRT: Bugis.
- Old Airport Food Center: 51 Old Airport Rd, busy food center with a range of affordable dishes. Nearest MRT: Dakota.
- Tuckshop Harbourfront Centre**: 1 Maritime Square, a food court with diverse options. Nearest MRT: Harbourfront.
- Lau Pa Sat Festival Market: 18 Raffles Quay, a Victoria-style indoor food court with local and international stalls. Nearest MRT: Downtown, Shenton Way, or Telok Ayer.
- ABC Brickworks Food Center: 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, a renowned hawker center for affordable food. Nearest MRT: Queenstown or Redhill.
So, after touring the sights and sampling the food, which of these 7 Singaporean dishes have you tried? Most of these favorite dishes can be found at affordable prices at the Woodland Center food court near the Woodlands Checkpoint, close to the Malaysia border.
Happy food hunting in Singapore!