Singapore’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan influences. Indian travelers will find a wide variety of must-try dishes and iconic eateries that offer authentic tastes and unique culinary experiences.
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice
Why try: Singapore’s national dish, loved for its tender chicken and fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth.
Highlights: – Served with chili sauce and ginger paste – Available at hawker centers and restaurants – Simple yet flavorful comfort food
Timing: Most stalls open from 10 AM – 9 PM
Entry: SGD 3–6 per serving
2. Chili Crab
Why try: A signature Singaporean seafood dish featuring crab in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce.
Highlights: – Best enjoyed with mantou (fried buns) – Served at famous places like Jumbo Seafood and No Signboard Seafood – A messy but delicious experience
Timing: Lunch and dinner hours
Entry: SGD 40–70 per crab
3. Laksa
Why try: Spicy noodle soup with coconut milk, prawns, fish cake, and tofu puffs, reflecting Peranakan heritage.
Highlights: – Rich, creamy broth with a spicy kick – Popular at Katong Laksa and 328 Katong Laksa – Comforting and satisfying
Timing: Typically 10 AM – 8 PM
Entry: SGD 4–7 per bowl
4. Satay
Why try: Skewered and grilled meat served with peanut sauce, a popular Malay dish loved across Singapore.
Highlights: – Chicken, beef, or mutton options – Accompanied by rice cakes and cucumber – Available at Lau Pa Sat and East Coast Lagoon Food Village
Timing: Evening stalls open 6 PM onwards
Entry: SGD 0.70–1.50 per stick
5. Hokkien Mee
Why try: Stir-fried noodles with prawns, squid, and a rich seafood broth.
Highlights: – Garnished with lime and sambal chili – Savored at Maxwell Food Centre and Geylang Serai Market – Hearty and flavorful
Timing: 10 AM – 8 PM
Entry: SGD 4–7 per plate
6. Roti Prata
Why try: Crispy and soft Indian flatbread served with curry, popular as a breakfast or late-night snack.
Highlights: – Variety of fillings like egg, cheese, or banana – Served at The Roti Prata House and Mr. Prata – Affordable and delicious
Timing: Most outlets open 7 AM – midnight
Entry: SGD 1.50–5 per piece
7. Bak Kut Teh
Why try: Pork rib soup simmered with herbs and spices, known for its rich and savory taste.
Highlights: – Served with rice and youtiao (fried dough) – Found in restaurants like Founder Bak Kut Teh – Comfort food for many locals
Timing: Breakfast and lunch hours
Entry: SGD 6–12 per bowl
8. Kaya Toast with Kopi
Why try: Traditional breakfast of toasted bread with coconut jam and butter, paired with strong local coffee.
Highlights: – Best at Ya Kun Kaya Toast and Toast Box – Simple yet iconic Singaporean combo – Light and energizing start to the day
Timing: 7 AM – 10 PM
Entry: SGD 2–5 per set
9. Fish Head Curry
Why try: A rich curry featuring a whole fish head cooked with vegetables and spices, popular among Indian and local diners.
Highlights: – Tangy and spicy gravy – Served at restaurants like Muthu’s Curry – Perfect with rice or bread
Timing: Lunch and dinner
Entry: SGD 15–30 per serving
10. Ice Kachang
Why try: A refreshing dessert made from shaved ice, sweet syrups, jelly, and beans, perfect for tropical weather.
Highlights: – Colorful and sweet with varied textures – Available at most hawker centers – Ideal to cool down after meals
Timing: All day at hawker centers
Entry: SGD 2–4 per bowl
