Joanna James
A decadently cinematic cityscape, Singapore is a feast for the senses, its irresistibly diverse food culture competing with its show-stopping attractions. Here are some unmissable delicacies in this richly nuanced cosmopolis.
Whether you’re a brand-savvy sojourner headed for Singapore’s swanky boulevards and upmarket entertainment arenas or a budget-friendly traveller chasing hidden gems in its vibrant culture-rich districts, the city’s gourmet street eats cannot be overlooked! If you want to start your gastronomic adventure with a tried-and-tested classic, you can’t go wrong with the sweet and spicy seafood medley of Singapore’s unofficial national dish, elevated by its one-of-a-kind chilli tomato sauce.
If you’ve customised a comprehensive itinerary detailing the highlights of your trip, from event tickets, hotel reservations, and special invitations to non-negotiable attractions, transport options, and where to eat, don’t forget to include lunch at Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice. Every addictive bit consists of fragrant rice basking in rich stock, succulent soy-steeped chicken, ginger paste, zingy sauces, and a whole host of spices.
Soul food is a staple at every corner of this jewel-toned urban jigsaw and you can’t go wrong with authentic local favourites like aromatic curried laksa topped with fish cake and bean curd puffs, crispy golden-brown banana fritters, and slurp-worthy wanton chilli soup. However, if you’re a fan of South Indian cuisine, fish marinated in traditional spicy sauces, and tender-cooked vegetables like okra to add heartiness, this deliciously briny curry is the ultimate comfort dish.
With budget-friendly feasts like Nasi Lemak, comprising coconutty rice, fried anchovies, zingy sambal, and other delectable add-ons, and deep-fried phenomena like rojak and crusty carrot cake for a guilty-pleasure indulgence, it’s not surprising that ‘Have you eaten?’ is a frequent greeting in Singapore! If you crave stir-fried noodles topped with vibrant veggies and well-cooked proteins, a plate of Char Kway Teow is worth the long lines!
You haven’t truly experienced Singapore if you don’t get addicted to at least two or three local street eats, from fluffy oyster omelettes dipped in chilli vinegar and curry puffs stuffed with tender meat or purple sweet potato to pillowy rice cakes topped with preserved radish and chilli. However, if you’re looking for a light, protein-rich snack, there’s nothing more binge-worthy than juicy, charcoal-seared satays accompanied by lip-smacking peanut sauce. If you’re looking for a contemporary boutique hotel in Singapore with premier access to its lively gastronomic hubs, venture no further than the likes of Hotel Classic by Venue.
From golden-crisped tandoor-cooked murtabak bursting with curried meat and vegetables to deep-fried meatballs marinated in five-spice powder and tossed in crushed chestnuts, Singaporean cuisine tastefully combines the best of Indian, Arab, and Chinese cookery. However, dig into this zesty barbequed stingray dish, wrapped in banana leaf and slathered with sambal, to sample something truly out of the box.
Singapore boasts a generous share of toothsome treats like ice Kachang doused in syrup and condensed milk, durian Swiss rolls, and luxuriant chiffon cake. However, if you need to wake up to a wholesome sweet breakfast, this pandan-infused bread coated in creamy kaya jam and topped with a soft-boiled egg is the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
