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Food Guide

Top 10 Best Late Night Eats Near Bugis & Naumi Singapore

Just touched down in Singapore after a late-night flight and in need of a delicious meal? Look no further than our neighbourhood! From BBQ skewers and mala hotpot to grilled fish, the diverse range of options will leave you spoiled for choice. Whether you’re craving a light snack or something heartier, there’s a perfect option for every palate. Here’s a list of our top 10 late night eats around Naumi Singapore and Bugis, handpicked by our local team.  

 

 

1. Tess Bar & Kitchen

 

Located just next door to Naumi Singapore is Tess Bar & Kitchen, a culinary gem for those seeking a relaxed space for some food and drinks. With its dimly-lit, chic design and black-painted furniture, the restaurant is perfect for a late-night snack or drink after a long flight. Apart from its spectacular dinner selection, they also feature an extensive drinks menu including single malt whisky, rum, gin, wines and signature cocktails.  

 

Not to be missed are their award-winning cocktails, such as the Clergyman Martini—a mixture of Tanqueray 10 Gin, Grapefruit Bitters, Tonic Reduction and Lime Cordial; Queen of the Club—a mix of Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky, Soursop, Mascarpone Cheese, Orange and Lemon; and their Harley Quinn Martini—a mix of Four Pillars Gin, Butterfly Pea Vermouth and Spiced Orange Cordial. Be sure to order their Triple Cooked Crackling Pork Belly as well for a perfect end to the meal! 

 

Opening hours: 

Mon – Thur, 4 pm – 1 am 

Fri – Sat, 12 pm – 3 am 

Sun, 12 pm – 1 am 

Cost: $25 – $45 

Address: 36 Seah St, Singapore 188392 

Link: https://tessbar.com/

Directions: 1 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

2. Fat Bird

 

Sichuan cuisine enthusiasts will rejoice at the sound of this restaurant—renowned for their signature Kampung Chicken Hot Pot, this gem along Liang Seah Street offers free-flow Mala and Chicken Stew Hot Pot buffet. Choose from a tantalizing array of eight signature pots, featuring delights like the Fragrant Chicken Pot, House Special Chicken Pot and Spicy & Fragrant Chicken Pot. Adventurous eaters may also consider going for the Bullfrog Pot option for something more unique.  

 

To top it off, diners can select from a total of 40 sides to match their hot pot, including must-tries like the Fried Tofu Strip, Winter Melon, and Handmade Noodle. If you’re not a hotpot fan, consider going for their range of ala-carte Si Chuan specials, including the Fish Head Steamboat with thick slices of fish in a cloudy, fragrant broth, and their Spicy Chicken Cubes, a must-order for all Sichuan food lovers. Be sure to grab a friend or two at this restaurant for a taste of everything!  

 

Opening hours: 

Sun – Thur, 11 am – 11:30 pm 

Fri – Sat, 11 am – 2 am 

Cost: $25 – $45 

Address: 1 Liang Seah St, #01-15/16, Singapore 189022 

Link: https://fatbird.com.sg/

Directions: 6 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

3. Xian De Lai

 

Another gem for all the hotpot lovers, Xian De Lai is a restaurant you should not miss! Priced at just $25.80, they offer hot pot and bbq buffet for no set time limit, so you can feast to your heart’s content at an affordable price. Its cozy, wooden interior makes it the perfect spot for a family outing, a dinner within large groups, or catching up with some friends and colleagues. Some highlights include their signature soup bases like Sichuan, Tom Yum, Mala, and Bak Kut Teh, as well as their Braised Pork Belly. The restaurant tends to get crowded easily during peak hours, so make sure to arrive early to beat the queue!  

 

Opening hours: 10:30 am – 4 am daily 

Cost: $15 – $90 

Address: 18 Liang Seah St, Singapore 189039 

Link: https://xian-de-lai.business.site/

Directions: 6 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

4. Mr Mookata

 

If you can’t decide between hotpot and bbq for supper, go for mookata instead—a Thai cuisine involving hotpot with a metal grill in the centre giving you the best of both worlds. Located just a 5 minute-walk away from Naumi Singapore, Mr Mookata is a vibrant eatery boasting a colorful array of chairs and neon-lit interiors. Whether you opt for the ala carte option or the all-you-can-eat buffet, make sure to give their homemade thai chilli a try for a taste of their authentic thai flavours. As an added bonus, they also provide free-flow beverages like lemon tea, barley, and calamansi on top of the buffet. 

 

Naumi’s Pro-tip: Consider sitting outside as heat from the hotpot and grill can contribute to the heat and stuffiness. Remember to dress light and preferably in lighter shades to avoid any splash stains! 

Opening hours: 12pm – 6 am daily 

Cost: $20 – $40 

Address: 516 Liang Seah St, Singapore 188740 

Link: https://www.facebook.com/MrMookata

Directions: 6 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

5. Chong Qing Grilled Fish

 

Not looking for the typical hot pot or bbq? Try Chong Qing Grilled Fish instead, a restaurant specialising in the signature Chong Qing dish of the same name. Touted as the first restaurant to introduce this dish to Singapore, their Signature Grilled Fish is available in 7 different broths, and diners can easily customise their dish according to their preferred spice level, type of fish, and extra ingredients. 

 

Coupled with its mouthwatering visuals, the combination of its fragrant aroma, rich, flavoured broth and slightly charred fish skin will be sure to make you crave for more. While you’re there, don’t forget to give their Spicy Chicken Cubes, Double-cooked Spicy Pork Slices and Mouthwatering Chicken a try! 

 

Opening hours:  

Sun – Thur, 11 am – 1 am 

Fri – Sat, 11 am – 2 am 

Cost: $20 – $50 

Address: 1 Liang Seah St, #01-05/06, Singapore 189022 

Link: https://www.cqgf.com.sg/

Directions: 5 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

6. Ah Chew Desserts

 

Another treasure of Liang Seah Street, Ah Chew Dessert is undoubtedly a local favourite evidenced by its snaking long queues every night. Beginning as a humble store owning half of their current space in 2003, this Chinese dessert shop slowly grew to become one of Singapore’s most popular and long-standing local dessert shops in the area through their unwavering commitment to providing good quality dessert. 

 

Step inside the shop and you will find an interior filled with old wooden furniture, Chinese calligraphy paintings and traditional handicrafts exuding the vibe of an old-school dessert shop in Hong Kong. Some of their must-try desserts include the Mango Pomelo Sago or Durian Pomelo Sago, Fresh Milk Steam Egg White and Yam Paste with Ginko Nut. 

 

Opening hours:  

Mon, Wed – Thur, 12:30 pm – 12 am 

Fri, 12:30 pm – 1 am 

Sat, 1:30 pm – 1 am 

Sun, 1:30 pm – 12 am 

Closed on Tuesdays 

Cost: $5 – $10 

Address: 1 Liang Seah St, #01-10/11 Liang Seah Place, Singapore 189032 

Link: https://www.ahchewdesserts.com/

Directions: 6 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

7. BBQ Box

 

Feeling peckish late into the night but are not prepared to eat a full meal? BBQ Box is the perfect place to satisfy your late night supper cravings, offering Chinese-style grilled skewers just a 7-minute walk away from the hotel. With an extensive menu of over 50 different choices of skewers, including chicken, beef, pork, lamb, seafood and vegetable options at an affordable price, you will be spoilt for choices. Each of their skewers are marinated in a range of different sauces, such as sweet and sour, teriyaki and chilli, and they are placed on a hotplate once cooked to keep it warm throughout your supper. 

 

Be sure to check out some of their signature dishes, such as the Chicken Skewers with Sweet and Sour Sauce, Beef Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce and Prawn Skewers with Garlic Sauce while you’re there! 

 

Opening hours: 

Sun – Thu, 12 pm – 12 am 

Fri – Sat, 12 pm – 1:30 am 

Cost: $10 – $25 

Address: 21 Tan Quee Lan St, #01-03, Singapore 188108 

Link: https://bbqbox.org/

Directions: 7 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

8. The Ramen House

 

Forget snacking; this ramen joint at Short Street serves hearty Japanese food from late night till wee hours of the morning at 6am, so you are guaranteed a full stomach! Dive into their array of food options, including their signature ramen menu, sushi and even bbq skewers. Each bowl of ramen is being delicately boiled for 30 hours, ensuring a rich flavour and milky smooth broth, and perfectly springy noodles to pair.  

 

Diners can choose from a choice of three soup bases, including the Shoyu Chicken Broth, Beef Broth or Pork Broth. If you prefer something more exciting, do not miss their specialty dish—the Volcano Ramen offered in three different spicy levels for a little challenge. To top it off, their prices are extremely affordable, giving you a satisfying midnight treat without breaking the bank. 

 

Opening hours: 5 pm – 6 am daily 

Cost: $10 – $80 

Address: 6 Short St, Singapore 188213 

Link: https://www.theramenhouse.sg/

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

9. Analogue

 

Located just 8 minutes away at CHIJMES is Analogue, a revolutionary 100% plant-based bar with a focus on environmental sustainability. Step into the space and you will be greeted by a stunning, 20-meter long undulating aqua blue bar top that is made from 1.6 tonnes of recycled plastic. The smaller tables next to the astounding bar top are made from mycelium, a type of fungus that helps to reduce their environmental footprint.  

 

With their dedication to sustainability and focus on a nutrionally-minded menu, they were awarded No. 37 in the Asia’s 50 Best Bars List in 2022. To top it off, they also offer an innovative cocktail menu, such as the Smokey Jersey blending whisky, palo cortado sherry, as well as the best jackfruit tacos in the city that makes this award-winning bar worth a try! 

 

Opening hours: 5 pm – 12 am daily 

Cost: $15 – $30 

Address: 30 Victoria St, #01-31 Chijmes, Singapore 187996 

Link: https://www.analogueinitiative.com/

Directions: 8 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

10. Newton Food Centre

 

There’s no better place to satisfy your late-night hunger pangs than going to a hawker centre—with Newton Food Centre opening round the clock daily, it’s the perfect place to get a taste of Singapore’s local culture while fulfilling your supper cravings. Above all, its cameo in Crazy Rich Asians in 2018 and its range of MICHELIN-approved stalls are a clear sign that this is a spot not to be missed. 

 

Some famous must-try stalls include Soon Wah Fishball Kway Teow Mee for their famed fishball noodles, Kwang Kee Teochew Fish Porridge for their sliced fish porridge, La Porpo for their crispy ayam goreng, Hup Kee Fried Oyster Omelette for their oyster omelette and Heng Carrot Cake for their carrot cake. 

 

Opening hours: 24 hours daily 

Cost: $5 – $15 

Address: 500 Clemenceau Ave N, Singapore 229495 

Link: https://newtonfoodcentre.com/ 

Directions: 15 min drive from Naumi Singapore 

 

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Food Guide

Top 11 Food To Try At Kampong Glam, Haji Lane & Arab Street

Apart from being one of Singapore’s bustling cultural neighbourhoods, Kampong Glam is also known for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of cafes, restaurants and bars from various cuisines. If you’re heading to Kampong Glam and are not sure what to eat, here is a specially curated food guide featuring the top 12 food to try at Kampong Glam, Haji Lane and Arab Street to keep your tummy happy.

restaurants

 

1. the coconut club

 

This MICHELIN Bib Gourmand listed restaurant place is a treat for all coconut lovers—if you’re on the hunt for the best Nasi Lemak in Singapore, The Coconut Club is the place to go. Perfectly spiced and crispy on the outside, their Signature Ayam Goreng Berempah Nasi Lemak has a distinct home-made taste to it that is hard to find elsewhere.

With the restaurant sourcing their coconuts directly from a plantation in Sabak Bernam, Malaysia, you can expect the best quality ingredients being used. Be sure to try their Kambing Percik (Charcoal-grilled Australian lamb short ribs marinated in coconut milk and spices), Chendol and selection of Kuehs made fresh daily.

 

Opening hours: 

Closed on Mondays 

Tues – Fri, 11 am – 2:30 pm, 5 pm – 9:30 pm 

Sat – Sun, 11 am – 9:30 pm 

Address: 269 Beach Rd, Singapore 199546 

Link: https://www.thecoconutclub.sg/

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

2. Zam Zam Restaurant

 

Since opening in 1908, Zam Zam Restaurant has built its reputation as one of the best biryani restaurants in Singapore. Serving classic Indian-Muslim cuisine ranging from murtabak, biryani, mee goreng and more, you will be spoilt for choices at their long list of options. Be sure to give their murtabak and nasi biryani a try, and don’t forget to order a Milo Dinosaur (iced Milo with Milo powder on top) or Teh Halia (pulled ginger tea) to complete your meal! 

 

Opening hours: 7 am – 11 pm daily 

Address: 697-699 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198675 

Link: https://zamzamsingapore.has.restaurant/ 

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

3. Hjh Maimunah Restaurant

 

Frequently seen sporting long queues during lunch peak hours, this MICHELIN Bib Gourmand listed eatery is undoubtedly one of the best nasi padang stalls in the area. Their traditional, kampong-style dishes have won the heart of many Singaporeans, and their popularity have led them to open more outlets across the island. Some of their must-try dishes include the Sundanese Grilled Chicken, Beef Rendang, Lemak Siput and Tahu Telur. 

 

Opening hours: Mon – Sat, 7:30 am – 6:30 pm 

Address: 11 Jln Pisang, Singapore 199078 

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

Link: https://www.hjmaimunah.com/en_SG/ 

 

4. Alaturka Mediterranean Turkish Restaurant

 

With its distinct Turkish lamps, tiles and furniture, Alaturka Mediterranean Turkish Restaurant definitely stands out as one of the many Turkish and Middle-Eastern restaurants in the area. Since opening in 2005, they are known for serving authentic, good quality Turkish food and have also been listed on the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand list in 2016 for bringing the authentic taste of Turkey to Singapore. Must-order dishes include their range of kebabs, such as the Karisik Kebab containing a mix of flame-grilled beef, lamb and chicken, or the Alaturka Platter offering charcoal-grilled meats. 

 

Opening hours: 11:30 am – 10:30 pm daily 

Address: 15 Bussorah St, Singapore 199436 

Link: https://www.alaturka.com.sg/

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

5. Fika Swedish Café and Bistro

 

If you’re sick of eating the same IKEA meatballs, Fika Swedish Cafe and Bistro serves up excellent Swedish meatballs that rivals IKEA. Run by a Singaporean-Swedish husband-and-wife team, the cafe is completely halal and is the perfect venue for a leisurely weekend brunch. Some of their must-try dishes include their Salmon Gravlax, Ligonberry Cheesecake and Mushroom Stuffed Roasted Turkey Breast. 

 

Opening hours:  

Sun – Thur, 11 am – 10 pm 

Fri – Sat, 11 am – 11 pm 

Address: 257 Beach Rd, Singapore 199539 

Link: https://www.fikacafe.com/ 

Directions: 10 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

6. Kampong Glam Café

 

Kampong Glam Café is the perfect eatery for a no-frills dining experience. Located at the junction of Bussorah Street with a view of the Sultan Mosque, this street-side eatery serves a variety of local, Malaysian and Indonesian cuisine and is known for their affordable, authentic food. Some of their popular dishes include Mee Rebus, Nasi Lemak, Nasi Goreng, and not to mention their delicious Teh Tarik (pulled tea)! 

Naumi’s pro-tip: Kampong Glam Café is open until 2 am most days and is the perfect place for a quick hunger fix during a late night out! 

 

Opening hours: Tues – Sun, 8 am – 2 am 

Address: 17 Bussorah St, Singapore 199438 

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

Link: http://kgglamcafe.ec-platform.net/index.html

 

 

SWEETS & DESEERTS

7. Mother Dough

 

Home to the one of the best almond croissants in Singapore, Mother Dough is a Muslim-owned bakery known for its almond croissants, sourdough bread and freshly-made pastries. Having started off as a pop-up stall, word-of-mouth has led the bakery to open a full-fledged stall in Kampong Glam in 2018, where it continues to be a popular café spot among Singaporeans. Apart from their steady bestsellers, be sure to check out their daily special menu for special items! 

Naumi’s pro-tip: Pre-book or visit the stall early, as their best-selling items are always sold out fast! 

 

Opening hours: Tues – Sun, 10 am – 5 pm 

Address: 3 Jln Kledek, Singapore 199259 

Directions: 20 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

Link: https://www.motherdough.com.sg/ 

 

8. Rich & Good Cake Shop 

 

Love a good swiss roll? This specialty shop sells incredibly soft and moist swiss rolls for a standard price of $12. To ensure the best quality and taste, their swiss rolls are cooked fresh daily in small batches, with their kaya made in-house using real pandan leaves. Some bestselling flavours include the Durian and Kaya swiss rolls. Other flavours, including the Red Velvet, Chocolate, and Coffee, are also highly rated among its customers.

 

Opening hours: 

Mon, 10:30 am – 5 pm 

Tues – Sat, 9 am – 5 pm 

Address: 24 Kandahar St, Singapore 198887 

Directions: 20 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

Link: https://richngood.com/ 

 

 

9. Overrun.SG

 

One look and it’ll have you drooling for sure—if you’re craving a sweet treat, Overrun.SG has got you covered! This humble-looking street-side stall serves an amazing array of delectable sweet treats. Not to be missed are their all-time signatures: Overrun Chendol, a twist on the local favourite chendol dessert, and the Durian Chendol version with durian puree on top for added goodness. If that doesn’t sound good enough, they also have special flavours rotating each week, such as the Ondeh Ondeh, Blueberry Biscoff Pie and Bubblegum flavours to keep you coming back for more. 

 

Naumi’s Pro Tip: Overrun.SG’s soft serve portions are huge, so make sure you’re coming with a friend or two to share this delectable goodness with! 

 

Opening hours: 

Tues – Thur, 12 pm – 8:30 pm 

Fri – Sat, 12 pm – 10 pm 

Sun, 12 pm – 6 pm 

Closed on Mondays 

Address: 29 Arab St, Singapore 199728 

Link: https://www.instagram.com/overrun.sg 

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

10. Birds of paradise

 

If Overrun.SG’s vibrant colour scheme doesn’t suit your palate, this pastel and cream-coloured cafe might be just up your alley! Inspired by botanical flavours of nature such as plants, fruits and flowers, this artisanal MICHELIN Guide-listed gelato shop has won the hearts of many Singaporeans for their unique, Southeast Asian flavours. All-time popular flavours include: White Chrysanthemum, Lychee Raspberry, Sea-salt Hojicha and Osmanthus Pear Sorbet.  

 

Naumi’s Pro Tip: While their ice cream is served in either a cone or a cup, we recommend topping up $1 for their Thyme Cones, which has an extra added toasty fragrance to the usual cone wafer option. The outlet is also takeaway only with minimal seating area, so make sure to reach early to grab a seat! 

 

Opening hours: 12 pm – 10 pm daily 

Address: 263 Beach Rd, Singapore 199542 

Link: https://birdsofparadise.sg/

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

11. konditori artisan bakes

 

Can’t get enough of artisan bread and bakery? Konditori Artisan Bakes is the sister bakery to Fika Swedish Cafe and Bistro just a 2-minute walk away. Serving artisanal bakes ranging from bread, croissants and pastries to whole cakes and tarts, their mouthwatering collection has the outlet brimming with loyal patrons all the time. If you’re lucky to get your hands on some of their bestselling items, don’t forget to try their Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish, Red Velvet Croissant and French Charcoal Cheese Bun. 

 

Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily 

Address: 33 Bussorah St, Singapore 199451 

Link: https://www.konditori.sg/

Directions: 15 min walk from Naumi Singapore 

 

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Food Guide

Top 10 Best Local Food in Singapore

Embark on a culinary journey through Singapore’s diverse foodscape – a fusion of local cuisines inspired by the country’s Chinese, Malay, and Indian beginnings. Whether you’re savoring $5 street eats or treating yourself to MICHELIN-starred extravagance, you won’t go hungry in Singapore. From mouthwatering chilli crab to durians, our team at Naumi has put together their top 10 best local food in Singapore for you to discover.

 

Mains

 

1. Singaporean Chilli Crab

Local food chilli crab

 

This classic dish needs no explanation – The Chilli Crab has earned its title as Singapore’s national dish for a good reason! Well-loved by Singaporeans and tourists alike, this dish is prepared by stir-frying crabs (most commonly mud crabs) in a thick, heavenly chilli and tomato-based sauce that is sweet, tangy and slightly spicy. Despite other variations such as the black pepper or salted egg yolk version serving up stiff competition in recent years, the classic chilli crab has continued to own its spot as Singaporeans’ favourite option and is considered one of the best local food in Singapore.

 

For the popular classic go-to chilli crab in Singapore, check out Jumbo Seafood, No Signboard Seafood and Redhouse Seafood. 

 

Naumi’s pro tip: Don’t forget to order mantou (fried buns) as well. Once you’re done with your chilli crab, drench them thoroughly in the remaining sauce for that perfect finish. Eating chilli crab can get messy! Be prepared to dig in with your hands. Dress appropriately and avoid wearing white clothes 😀 

 

Address:

Jumbo Seafood: 20 Upper Circular Rd, #B1-48 The Riverwalk, Singapore 058416 (30 min walk from Naumi) 

No Signboard Seafood: 414 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389392 (30 min by train from Naumi) 

Redhouse Seafood: 3C River Valley Road 01-02/03, The Cannery, Singapore 179022 (30 min by train from Naumi) 

 

2. Hainanese Chicken Rice

Hainanese Chicken Rice

 

The Hainanese Chicken Rice is another national dish and Singapore local food that is widely known. The best version of this dish is fiercely debated amongst foodies in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand and depending on who you speak to and where they’re from, you’ll probably get a different answer. 

 

At first glance, this humble dish looks fairly simple and even plain, with several pieces of poached, white chicken served on top of white rice. After your first taste, however, you’ll definitely not overlook its modest appearance.

 

To create this dish, the chicken is poached at sub-boiling temperatures until it is perfectly tender, and the rice is cooked with a blend of chicken stock, pandan leaves, ginger and garlic to give it a rich, fragrant flavour. Paired with the classic “Chicken Rice chilli” or garlic chilli sauce, it is no wonder this heavenly delicacy is one of the best local dishes in Singapore. For some of the popular Hainanese Chicken Rice spots in town, head over to Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, but be prepared to queue! 

 

Naumi’s pro tip: Commonly found in hawker centres, some stalls have the chilli sauce pre-packed in small plastic bags for takeaway customers. If you’re ordering for takeaway, make sure to ask for the chilli sauce as some stall-owners might forget to put it in your order! 

 

Address: 

Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice: 1 Kadayanallur St, #01-10/11 Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore 069184 (30 min by train from Naumi) 

 

3. Katong Laksa

Katong Laksa

 

When talking about local food in Singapore, you can’t miss out on laksa. Another local favourite, laksa is at the top of every food list in Singapore, and for good reason. Made up of a combination of rice noodle, shrimp and fishcake drenched in a thick, creamy coconut gravy, this delectable dish has gained recognition both locally and overseas for its unique, flavourful broth.

Laksa is inspired by Peranakan cuisine, and several versions of laksa exist today, including the Penang, curry and Assam versions, but none are as popular as the Katong Laksa that originated in Singapore which uses a special dried shrimp paste to give it a richer flavour. For some of the popular laksa spots in Singapore, try Janggut Laksa, 328 Katong Laksa and Katong Laksa by George. 

 

Address:

Janggut Laksa: 331 Upper Paya Lebar Rd, Singapore 534949 (35 min by train from Naumi) 

328 Katong Laksa: 101 Thomson Rd, #01 – K1, Singapore 307591 (20 min by bus from Naumi) 

Katong Laksa (George’s): 307 Changi Rd, Singapore 419785 (40 min by train from Naumi) 

 

4. Kaya Toast

Singapore Kaya Toast

 

If you’re looking for a good Singaporean breakfast, there’s nothing better than kaya toast, Singapore’s favourite local breakfast menu. Kaya toast is made up of two thinly sliced toasted bread with kaya (coconut jam), and a generous slab of butter in between. It is normally ordered together with two runny, soft-boiled eggs served on a dish and a cup of kopi (black coffee). 

To take it up a notch, locals usually season their soft-boiled eggs with pepper and dark soy sauce and dip their toast in the mixture for their breakfast. For some of the popular kaya toast spots in town, try the popular Ya Kun Kaya Toast or Good Morning Nanyang Café. 

 

Naumi’s Pro Tip: The traditional way of eating the soft-boiled eggs is by mixing the eggs with pepper and dark soy sauce to your taste and eating it directly from the dish—almost like you’re drinking from it. As weird as it sounds, this way of eating is commonplace in Singapore kopitiams (coffee shops) and easily makes it to the top amongst the local food in Singapore. If you’re up for an authentic local experience, give this a try! 

 

Address:  

Ya Kun Kaya Toast: 190 Middle Rd, #01-09, Singapore 188979 (11 min walk from Naumi) 

 

5. Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh

 

Bak Kut Teh, or literally “meat bone tea” is one of the less popularized Singapore local foods. Known for its flavourful soup base and tender pork ribs, this pork ribs soup comes in 3 different styles: the Hokkien version with a dark brown soup and a saltier taste, the Cantonese style with a strong herbal taste, and the Teochew style with a clear, garlicky and peppery broth (the common style served in Singapore). 

 

Bak Kut Teh is typically eaten together with steamed rice and a selection of side dishes including braised bean curd, steamed vegetables and groundnuts. For some of the popular Bak Kut Teh spots in town, try Song Fa Bak Kut Teh and Ng Ang Sio Bak Kut Teh for their peppery, Teochew style pork ribs soup. 

 

Naumi’s Pro Tip: The best way to eat Bak Kut Teh is to discard your utensils and use your hands! And do not forget to dip the delicious chunks of meat in the dark sauce for more oomph and flavour 😉 

 

Address:

Song Fa Bak Kut Teh: 3 Temasek Blvd, #B1-132, Singapore 038983 (13 min walk from Naumi) 

Ng Ang Sio Bak Kut Teh: 208 Rangoon Rd, Hong Building, Singapore 218453 (25 min by bus from Naumi) 

 

snacks

6. Rojak

Rojak

 

Rojak or “mixed” in Malay, is an Indonesian dish that mixes a variety of vegetables and fruits such as cucumbers, Chinese turnips, unripe mangoes and pineapples in a thick, gooey, brown sweet sauce and topped with crushed peanuts.

At first glance, the dish and its ingredients might look like it has been haphazardly put together, but the sweet sauce, together with the juiciness and crunchiness of the different fruits and vegetables result in a surprisingly refreshing and flavourful combination. Normally eaten as a snack or an appetizer, this unique dish is definitely one of the must-try local foods in Singapore! For some of the popular rojak places in town, try Lim Bo Rojak and Brothers Rojak. 

 

Address:  

Lim Bo Rojak: 1 Punggol Dr., #02-11, Singapore 828629 (50 min by train from Naumi) 

Brothers Rojak: 449 Clementi Ave 3, #01-211, Singapore 120449 (45 min by train from Naumi) 

 

7. Curry Puff

Curry Puff

 

One of Singaporeans’ favourite go-to snacks, curry puff is a small, crescent-shaped pie with curry and potato filling encased in a baked pastry crust. Depending on the variation—Malay, Chinese, or Indian among others, the fillings and crust may vary from chicken to sardine and a layered, flaky version to a thicker, crispy pastry. While curry puffs can be dangerously addictive, beware not to eat too much as some stalls make them extremely spicy! For some of the popular curry puffs in town, head to Old Chang Kee, J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff and Tanglin Crispy Curry Puff. 

 

Address:

Old Chang Kee: 230 Victoria St, #B1 – 13, Singapore 188024 (10 min walk from Naumi) 

J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff: 7 Maxwell Rd, #01-21, Singapore 069111 (25 min by train from Naumi) 

Tanglin Crispy Curry Puff: Blk 531A Upper Cross St, #02-36 Hong Lim Market & Food Centre, Singapore 051531 (30 min by train from Naumi) 

 

DESSERTS

8. Durian

Durian

 

Durians might have earned a bad reputation amongst some due to its overpowering smell, but for the more adventurous eaters, you definitely can’t miss out on Singapore’s national fruit! Also known as the king of fruits, durians are a soft, custard-like yellow fruit encased in a tough, thorny green husk. Apart from its distinctive appearance, its pungent odour is another unique characteristic that has garnered mixed reactions. Despite so, its wonderfully soft custard texture and deliciously decadent taste has won its place as one of the best local food in Singapore.

 

Either deemed wonderfully fragrant or absolutely repulsive, this interesting fruit has won the hearts of many Singaporeans for its rich, creamy taste and has spawned other durian-flavoured desserts, such as the popular durian sago. If you’re not game for the full-power durian, start with a durian-flavoured dessert. For some of the popular durian spots in town, check out 99 Old Trees Durian or Ah Seng Durian and head to Ah Chew Desserts for their durian-flavoured desserts. 

 

Naumi’s Pro Tip: If you’re intending to bring some durians home, be aware that durians are banned on trains and buses in Singapore due to its overpowering smell. In other words, transporting durians on public transport is illegal, so make sure to take a Grab or taxi! 

 

Address: 

99 Old Trees Durian: 1 Teo Hong Rd, Singapore 088321 (25 min by train from Naumi) 

Ah Seng Durian: 20 Ghim Moh Rd #01-119 to #01-122, 270020 (40 min by train from Naumi) 

Ah Chew Desserts: 1 Liang Seah St, #01-10/11 Liang Seah Place, Singapore 189032 (6 min walk from Naumi) 

 

9. Ice Cream Sandwich

Ice Cream Cart

 

One of the oldest traditions and best Singapore local foods is the ice cream carts that can be found dotted around busy tourist attractions around the city. Usually run by older ‘uncles’ or ‘aunties’, these carts serve blocks of ice cream in two ways— sandwiched between a colourful piece of bread, or between two pieces of crispy wafer. For a price of only $1 to $2, these ice cream carts are one of the cheaper options you can find around town and has become an integral part of Singapore’s local food and street hawker culture. 

 

Naumi’s Pro Tip: As these carts operate outdoors, the ice cream tends to melt fast. If you want something less messy, pick the rainbow bread option! 😉 

 

10. Chendol

Chendol

 

Cendol or Chendol is a type of shaved ice dessert topped with green strands of rice flour jelly, red beans, coconut milk, red kidney beans and gula melaka (palm sugar syrup). Some stalls also add other ingredients like diced jackfruit, sweet corn and durian to the dessert. Known for its bright green colour and sweet taste, this refreshing dessert is one of the go-to local food in Singapore to beat the sweltering hot weather. For some of the popular chendol places in town, try Old Amoy Chendol and Nyonya Chendol. 

 

Address: 

Old Amoy Chendol: 335 Smith St, #02-008, Singapore 050335 (30 min by train from Naumi) 

Nyonya Chendol: 90 Whampoa Dr, #01-17 Makan Place, Singapore 320090 (35 min by train from Naumi)

 

Love our guide on the best local food in Singapore? Check out our other local food guides:

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