Singapore is famous for its vibrant food scene and diverse cuisine. From street food to high-end restaurants, the city-state offers an array of delicious culinary delights that cater to different tastes and budgets.
As a food lover, trying out the best food in Singapore should be at the top of your to-do list. But with so many options available, deciding what to eat and where to find it can be overwhelming.
We have compiled a list of the best popular food in Singapore that will leave your taste buds tingling. From the iconic Hainanese Chicken Rice to the savory Laksa, we have included all the must-try dishes to give you a true taste of Singapore.
Our list includes recommendations for both budget-friendly options and high-end restaurants, so no matter what your preference or budget may be, you’ll be able to find something.
Top 19 Best Popular Food In Singapore
Regarding popular food in Singapore, there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s always something new and exciting to try. One must-try dish is Roti Prata, a crispy Indian-style flatbread typically served with curry sauce.
The bread is made from dough flattened, stretched, and folded repeatedly, resulting in numerous layers of flaky goodness. This dish can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Another must-try dish is Kaya Toast and Soft-Boiled Eggs. This traditional breakfast dish consists of toasted bread spread with kaya (a sweet coconut jam) and butter, accompanied by soft-boiled eggs seasoned with soy sauce and white pepper. The combination of sweet and savory flavours makes this dish an instant hit with many locals and tourists. Scroll down for unique dishes.
1.Kaya Toast And Soft-Boiled Eggs
Regarding breakfast in Singapore, Kaya Toast and Soft-Boiled Eggs are a must-try dish. The perfect blend of crispy toast and smooth, creamy eggs makes for a delicious start to the day. This breakfast staple is popular among locals and tourists and can be found at many local coffee shops and food courts throughout Singapore.
Combining kaya, a sweet coconut jam, and soft-boiled eggs creates a unique taste that represents the diverse cultural influences in Singaporean cuisine. Pair it with hot coffee or tea for an authentic experience.
2.Roti Prata
Roti Prata is a beloved dish in Singaporean cuisine originating from Indian cuisine. You make it by flipping and stretching the dough until it becomes thin, then frying it on a hot grill. You can stuff the bread with egg, cheese, or onion fillings. Often served with a side of curry, this crispy and flaky flatbread melts in your mouth.
It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh with a cup of teh tarik (pulled tea), available at many local hawker centres throughout Singapore. The tempting aroma of Roti Prata as it’s flipped on the grill cannot be resisted, making it a must-try in Singapore.
3.Chwee Kueh
Chwee Kueh is a delicious breakfast dish that has become a favourite among locals and tourists alike in Singapore. This delectable steamed rice cake is topped with preserved turnips and chilli sauce, giving it a unique flavour that is hard to resist.
Immigrants brought the dish from the Teochew community in China to Singapore. Today, most hawker centres and food courts throughout the city-state offer it, making it easily accessible for everyone. Chwee Kueh has a soft, smooth texture and savoury taste, which makes it a must-try for anyone visiting Singapore.
4.Curry Puffs
Try the popular curry puffs if you’re looking for a quick and tasty snack in Singapore. These flaky pastry snacks contain various ingredients, including curried potatoes, chicken, or beef. They’re perfect for anyone on the go who needs a quick bite to eat. You can find curry puffs widely available in almost every hawker centre and street food stall in Singapore. Making them an easy option for locals and visitors alike. So next time you need a quick snack fix, try curry puffs.
5.Popiah
Have you heard of the versatile and delicious Singaporean snack, Popiah? These thin crepes filled with vegetables, meat or seafood, and a sweet sauce are a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Popiah is often enjoyed as a light meal or snack and can be found at many hawker centres and restaurants throughout Singapore.
What’s great about Popiah is that it can be customized to suit each person’s preferences, making it an ideal choice for those who like to mix and match their flavours. This snack offers taste and nutrition in one bite, with turnips, bean sprouts, lettuce, peanuts, and fried shallots as common fillings.
6.Bak Chor Mee
Bak Chor Mee is a beloved noodle dish that originated in the Hokkien community of Singapore and has since gained worldwide recognition. This popular dish features minced pork, noodles, and various toppings such as fish balls, mushrooms, and vegetables.
The combination of fresh ingredients, savoury broth, and flavorful chilli sauce makes it a favourite among locals and tourists. You can customize Bak Chor Mee to suit your individual preferences by choosing different noodle types and spice levels. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this delicious dish will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
7.Singapore Laksa
Singapore Laksa is a popular and flavorful noodle soup that’s a must-try for anyone visiting the country. This dish combines rice noodles with coconut milk, shrimp, chicken, herbs, and spices to create a savoury and spicy flavour profile.
Singapore Laksa has roots in Chinese and Malay cuisine, making it an excellent representation of Singaporean culture through its unique blend of flavours. Whether you’re looking for something spicy or want to try something new, you can’t go wrong with this delicious dish. So head to any hawker centre or food court and try it.
8.Fried Kway Teow
Fried Kway Teow is a classic Singaporean dish that has become a favourite among locals and tourists. The dish consists of stir-fried flat rice noodles in soy sauce-based seasoning, accompanied by Chinese sausage, shrimp, bean sprouts, and eggs.
This mouthwatering combination of flavours and textures makes it an irresistible option for those seeking comfort food in Singapore. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite at a hawker centre or want to indulge in delicious street food, Fried Kway Teow is worth trying.
9.Chicken Rice
One of the most iconic and beloved dishes in Singapore is Chicken Rice. You can find this national dish almost everywhere, from hawker centres to high-end restaurants. The dish features tender chicken pieces with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, chilli sauce and soy sauce.
While the ingredients may seem simple, the preparation and cooking techniques make this dish special. Each chef has a secret recipe for creating the perfect balance of flavours, making each plate of Chicken Rice unique and delicious. It’s no wonder locals, and visitors consider it a must-try when visiting Singapore.
10.Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a beloved dish that has become a staple in Singaporean cuisine. This fragrant coconut rice dish is typically served with spicy sambal chilli sauce, fried chicken wings, fried anchovies and peanuts, and a boiled egg. You can enjoy it any time of the day, and it’s a popular breakfast option.
At the same time, the classic recipe is delicious; some chefs and home cooks like experimenting with different ingredients to make it their own. Whether you prefer it traditional or with a twist, Nasi Lemak is a must-try for anyone visiting Singapore.
11.Chilli Crab
Chilli Crab is a quintessential Singaporean dish that locals and tourists can’t resist. This seafood delicacy features fresh crabs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce bursting with flavour. The best way to enjoy this messy but delicious dish is to soak up all the tasty sauce with steamed buns or rice.
When choosing crab for this dish, selecting high-quality ones is important to ensure the best texture and taste. To fully experience Singapore’s food scene, visit famous hawker centres where you can find Chilli Crab and other seafood dishes at affordable prices.
12.Black Pepper Crab
Black Pepper Crab is a must-try seafood dish in Singapore. Originating from the East Coast, it features fresh crabs cooked in a fragrant black pepper sauce made with a blend of spices such as garlic, ginger, and freshly ground black pepper. This dish has become a local favourite for its unique flavour and aroma.
The crabs are typically stir-fried in the savoury sauce until tender and juicy. To enjoy the flavorful sauce, it is best to have Black Pepper Crab with steamed rice or bread. If you’re a fan of spicy food, this dish should be on your list.
13.Sambal Stingray
Sambal Stingray is a beloved seafood dish in Singapore that packs a spicy punch. This dish is not for the faint of heart but for those who appreciate bold and intense flavours. Sambal Stingray is usually served on banana leaves and accompanied by lime wedges and cucumber slices to balance the heat. If you want to indulge in authentic local cuisine, this fiery dish should definitely be on your foodie bucket list when visiting Singapore.
14.Dim Sum
Dim Sum is a beloved Chinese cuisine consisting of small, bite-sized portions served in steamer baskets or on small plates. This Cantonese delicacy has gained immense popularity in Singapore, and it’s no surprise why. With its vast array of flavours, textures, and ingredients, Dim Sum is a culinary experience that appeals to foodies everywhere.
We craft every dish with precision and attention to detail, from the savory siu mai to the sweet char siu bao. Dim Sum restaurants offer an extensive menu of dishes that cater to every palate, making it an excellent option for those looking for variety and adventure.
15.Wanton Mee
Introducing an interesting fact, Wanton Mee is considered a staple dish in Singaporean Chinese cuisine. This popular noodle dish has its roots in Hong Kong and Guangzhou. But the Singaporean version has taken on a unique flavour with the addition of local ingredients.
The dish consists of egg noodles and dumplings filled with pork or shrimp, served with a savoury sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Variations may include vegetables or barbecued pork. You can find Wanton Mee at hawker centres or Chinese restaurants throughout Singapore. Making it an easily accessible and delicious option for locals and visitors alike.
16.Fish Head Curry
Fish Head Curry is a must-try Indian dish popular in Singaporean cuisine. The curry base of the dish is a blend of Indian spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which adds depth and complexity to the flavour. We add vegetables like okra and eggplant to the dish, complementing the fish head perfectly.
The spicy and flavorful taste of Fish Head Curry makes it a favourite among locals and tourists visiting Singapore. Be sure to add it to your list of must-try dishes when exploring the diverse food scene in Singapore.
17.Biryani
Biryani is a beloved Indian dish that has made its way to Singapore and become a popular food item. Made with aromatic basmati rice, meat (usually chicken, lamb, or beef), and a rich blend of spices and herbs like saffron, cinnamon, and bay leaves, Biryani is much more than just another rice dish.
This mouthwatering delicacy is often served with raita (yoghurt sauce) and chutney, adding depth to its intricate flavour profile. If you’re looking for something hearty and flavorful in Singapore, Biryani is worth a taste.
18.Malay Cuisine
Malay cuisine is a unique blend of flavours and cultural influences. It features a mix of Indian, Chinese, and Indonesian elements to create mouthwatering dishes that are hard to resist. Many popular Malay dishes like nasi lemak, rendang, and Laksa incorporate spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin for flavour.
Hawker centres or local restaurants in Singapore often serve these dishes with rice, and people can enjoy them. With its diverse ingredients and cooking methods, Malay cuisine offers a unique culinary experience that will delight food enthusiasts.
19.Nasi Padang
Nasi Padang is a flavorful and popular Malay dish that has become a staple in Singaporean cuisine. This traditional dish offers a variety of curries, vegetables, and meats served alongside steamed rice. The customizable nature of Nasi Padang makes it perfect for individuals with different preferences.
This dish also features many accompaniments, such as crispy fried chicken, spicy beef rendang, and sambal chilli sauce, offering diverse flavours. Whether you’re looking for something spicy or mild, Nasi Padang is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to experience the best Malay cuisine in Singapore.
Conclusion
Singapore is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with various dishes unique to the country and influenced by neighbouring cuisines. Some of the best popular food in Singapore includes Hainanese chicken rice, a fragrant and savoury dish featuring tender poached chicken served over rice cooked in chicken broth. Singapore has a variety of food options that cater to different taste buds.
From the crispy Roti Prata and savoury Chilli Crab to the wholesome Nasi Lemak, there’s something for everyone. To fully immerse yourself in Singapore’s food culture, it’s best to try out the local dishes. Sampling some of these dishes will give you a glimpse into what the locals love and enjoy. So make sure to add these 19 best popular food in Singapore to your list of must-try dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1.What Is The Most Popular Food In Singapore?
Ans. Singapore’s national dish, Hainanese chicken rice, is a must-try when visiting the city-state. Other popular dishes include Laksa, chilli, and char kway teow. Head to the hawker centres to find the most authentic and affordable Singaporean food. For vegetarians, there are also delicious options like vegetarian popiah or mee goreng. With such a diverse range of flavours and options, Singapore is truly a food lover’s paradise.
2.What Is Singapore’s National Dish?
Ans. Singapore’s national dish is officially recognized as Hainanese chicken rice, but many other popular dishes in Singapore, including Laksa, chilli, and satay. Various cultures, including Chinese, Malay, and Indian, influence the city-state’s cuisine. Foodies can explore hawker centres and street food stalls to discover the best eats in Singapore, where they will find a diverse range of flavours and dishes to sample.
3.What Food Is Local To Singapore?
Ans. Singaporean cuisine is a delicious fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences. Many iconic local dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, Laksa, and char kway teow. Additionally, no trip to Singapore would be complete without trying chilli crab, satay, and roti prata. The city-state is also famous for its street food culture, with hawker centres offering various affordable and tasty options that reflect the region’s diverse cultural influences.
4.What Are The Popular Chinese Food In Singapore?
Ans. Some popular Chinese dishes in Singapore include Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, and bak kut teh. Dim Sum is also a popular meal in Singapore’s Chinese community, and traditional Chinese desserts such as tau huay and tang yuan are widely enjoyed. Many hawker centres and restaurants in Singapore offer authentic Chinese cuisine, making it easy to find delicious dishes.
5.What Are Popular Dishes In Singaporean Restaurants Cuisine?
Ans. Singaporean cuisine is a delicious blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Indonesian influences. The popular dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, Laksa, chilli, and satay. Nasi lemak, rojak, and char kway teow are famous dishes in Singapore. To truly experience the flavours of Singaporean cuisine, visit hawker canters and local food markets.