Singapore is renowned for its vibrant food scene, with a wide array of street food stalls offering everything from traditional local dishes to contemporary fusion flavors. Whether you’re craving savory snacks, sweet treats, or hearty meals, the city’s hawker centers and street-side eateries are the perfect places to satisfy your hunger. Here’s where you can find some of the best street food stalls in Singapore.
1. Maxwell Food Centre (Chinatown)
Maxwell Food Centre is one of the most popular hawker centers in Singapore, beloved by locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this bustling food hub is home to a variety of street food stalls serving classic Singaporean dishes. You’ll find everything from chicken rice and laksa to roti prata and satay.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice: Famous for its tender chicken and fragrant rice, this stall is often voted as one of the best in Singapore.
- Zhen Zhen Porridge: A go-to spot for congee lovers, serving up warm, comforting bowls of rice porridge with toppings like fish and century egg.
2. Lau Pa Sat (Financial District)
Lau Pa Sat is one of the most iconic hawker centers in Singapore, located in the city’s bustling financial district. Set in a beautiful Victorian-style building, Lau Pa Sat offers a fantastic variety of street food, especially in the evenings when the nearby satay street comes to life. Here, you can sample a variety of skewered meats and seafood grilled to perfection over an open flame.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Satay: The satay stalls at Lau Pa Sat are famous for their flavorful skewers of marinated meats, including chicken, beef, and lamb, served with a rich peanut sauce.
- Char Kway Teow: Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, eggs, and bean sprouts—perfect for those craving a hearty meal.
3. Chinatown Complex Food Centre (Chinatown)
Chinatown Complex is one of the largest and most famous hawker centers in Singapore, boasting over 200 food stalls. It’s a must-visit for any food lover looking to explore the best of Singapore’s street food scene. This hawker center serves an impressive range of local dishes, including dim sum, duck rice, and roti john.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle: Famous for its Michelin-starred soy sauce chicken, this stall offers tender chicken served with fragrant rice and noodles.
- Chinatown Fried Kway Teow: A local favorite, this dish features stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, Chinese sausage, and eggs.
4. Old Airport Road Food Centre (Geylang)
Located in the Geylang area, the Old Airport Road Food Centre is a local gem that’s beloved for its diverse selection of street food. The hawker center features stalls serving a wide range of local delicacies, from savoury noodle dishes to desserts and everything in between.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Laksa: A spicy, coconut-based noodle soup that is a Singaporean favorite. The Siam Thai stall here serves up one of the best versions in the city.
- Oyster Omelette: A unique Singaporean dish made with eggs, oysters, and starch, creating a savory and crispy omelette.
5. Tekka Centre (Little India)
For those looking to explore the flavors of Indian street food, Tekka Centre in Little India is the place to go. The hawker center offers a range of authentic Indian dishes alongside local favorites. From spicy curries to tasty snacks, you’ll find an incredible array of food stalls serving vibrant and flavorful meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Murtabak: A savory stuffed flatbread with fillings like minced meat, onions, and eggs, typically served with curry sauce.
- Biryani: Fluffy rice cooked with fragrant spices, served with tender meat like chicken or lamb, and accompanied by a cooling raita.
Conclusion
Singapore’s street food scene offers an endless array of delicious, affordable, and authentic dishes. Whether you’re seeking out Michelin-starred chicken rice or indulging in spicy satay by the riverside, the city’s hawker centers and food markets are perfect for every palate. Make sure to explore the local favorites at these bustling street food stalls and savor the diverse flavors that make Singapore a true food paradise.
