The 10 Best Hawker Centres to Savour Singapore's Flavours

The Best Hawker Centres in Singapore Unveiled

Are you ready for an unforgettable food adventure? Look no further than the best hawker centres in Singapore, undeniably the heart and soul of the local food scene. These lively open-air food courts bring together an incredible array of affordable and delicious eats that will satisfy your cravings like never before.

Did you know that hawker culture in Singapore has a fascinating history dating back to the 1800s? Immigrants found their calling in street hawking, serving their regional specialities for just a few cents. Fast forward to today, and hawker culture has become a source of immense pride, even earning UNESCO's recognition as part of our world's cultural heritage.

When you step into a hawker centre, you're not just diving into a meal but also immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Singapore's multicultural identity. These food hubs have nourished locals and visitors for generations, showcasing diverse dishes that reflect a melting pot of cultures.

With plenty of hawker centres to choose from, you'll be spoiled for choice. We've handpicked some of our absolute favourites you must try on your next trip. Here's our ultimate list of the best hawker centres in Singapore:

Newton Food Centre

Newton Food Centre is a must-visit hawker haven in Singapore, and it even made a star appearance in the hit rom-com Crazy Rich Asians. Remember that iconic scene where Rachel and Nick indulged in laksa, satay, and chilli crabs? Well, it all happened right here.

While Newton is slightly touristy due to its location near Orchard Road, don't let that deter you. This bustling food paradise offers a fantastic outdoor atmosphere where you can feast on delectable local dishes and wash them down with refreshing cold beers.

Now, let's talk about one of the true gems hidden within Newton Food Centre - Kwang Kee Teochew Fish Porridge (#01-20). This humble stall earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award for its culinary prowess. One taste of the signature clear fish head soup ($6), and you'll understand why it's received such high praise.

But let's not forget the main act of many local dishes - sambal chilli. When generously slathered over BBQ stingray ($12), you'll be coming back for more. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of deliciousness that you won't soon forget.

Amoy Street Food Centre

Amoy Street Food Centre is famous for hosting renowned Michelin Bib Gourmand awardees and noteworthy stalls.

This hawker centre comes to life during weekday office hours, and get incredibly crowded. If you want to secure a seat, arrive by 11am for your best chance. Don't miss the mouthwatering offerings of Han Kee Fish Soup (#02-129), where office workers gather for a satisfying lunch.

For a truly satisfying braised duck rice experience, head straight to Kin Men Seng Heng (#02-133). Their Braised Duck Rice Set ($6) is a pure delight. The duck is tender, bathed in a savoury and lightly braised sauce. It's worth noting that this stall is halal-certified so that everyone can indulge in its deliciousness.

Looking for a stellar cup of coffee without the fuss? Look no further than Mad Roaster (#02-107). They are proof that exceptional coffee doesn't require fancy cafes or frills, and can be found at hawker centres too!

Maxwell Food Centre

Maxwell Food Centre is a foodie's paradise right in the heart of Singapore! You can't visit this iconic hawker centre without trying the famous Maxwell Fuzhou Oyster Cake (#01-06) - it's a mouthwatering delight that will leave you craving more.

And if you're in the mood for something crispy and sweet, Hum Jin Pang (#01-28) is the place to go for their affordable fried dough fritters ($1) with a luscious red bean filling. The best part? They even let you cook the fritters yourself - talk about getting hands-on.

Now, let's talk about China Street Fritters (#01-64), where you can savour Hokkien-style ngoh hiang, liver rolls, and other tasty bites. Don't forget to dip them in their irresistible sweet and spicy sauces for that extra kick of flavour!

Oh, and we can't skip the legendary Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (#01-10). Their succulent chicken, fragrant rice, and mouthwatering sauces have made them a crowd favourite, with Anthony Bourdain and Gordon Ramsay among some of the stall's famous fans.

Old Airport Road Food Centre

Back in 1972, the Old Airport Road Food Centre was created as a solution to relocate street hawkers from the Kallang Estate after the closure of Kallang Airport in 1955. These days, this bustling food centre is home to over 150 hawker stalls, each with its own friendly rivalries and delicious offerings.

When you visit, make sure to try Roast Paradise's (#01-1) mouthwatering char siew rice ($4.50) that will leave you craving for more. And for a delightful treat, Nyonya Chendol's (#01-115) durian chendol ($3.50) is a must-try, blending the richness of durian with the refreshing sweetness of chendol.

But the culinary journey doesn't stop there. Be sure to swing by To-Ricos Kway Chap (#01-135) for a hearty bowl of their kway chap ($6). You'll be treated to a delectable combination of pig intestines, stomach, pork belly, tau kwa, tau pok, and braised eggs.

Adam Road Food Centre

Don't be fooled by Adam Road Food Centre's small size - this place is a hidden gem bursting with flavourful delights!

One stall that has gained worldwide acclaim is Selera Rasa's (#01-02) nasi lemak. It's so delicious that even the Sultan of Brunei requests it whenever he visits Singapore.

Also, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong proudly served this dish to Indonesian President Joko Widodo once. Treat yourself to the full house set priced at $5.50, which includes mouthwatering fried chicken, perfectly cooked egg, crispy anchovies, and fiery sambal chilli.

At the same time, stop by Adam's Indian Rojak (#01-05) for a plate of pure indulgence. They serve a delightful mix of fried fritters, hard-boiled eggs, potatoes, cuttlefish, and cucumber.

Mei Ling Market & Food Centre

While Mei Ling Food Centre may not have the same level of popularity as others on this list, it's a hidden gem that shouldn't be overlooked. This under-the-radar spot is perfect for enjoying a satisfying meal away from the crowds.

Make your way to Lao Jie Fang (#02-15) and treat yourself to their Hong Kong-style noodles, especially their famous beef brisket noodles ($5) with tender beef and noodles in a delicious sauce.

Try the Hup Kee Teochew Fishball Noodles (#02-33) teochew fishball noodles in dry meepok, with fishballs, fishcake, and fish dumplings. This stall has earned a recommendation in the Singapore Michelin Guide, so it's legit.

Bedok Interchange Hawker Centre

Calling all food lovers! Get ready to satisfy your taste buds at Bedok Interchange Hawker Centre, a must-visit gem in the heartlands.

Start your foodie adventure at Inspirasi (#01-11), where you can dive into a bowl of mee rebus (S$2.50) bursting with savoury goodness. Don't miss out on the soto ayam (S$2.50) either, a comforting chicken soup that will warm your heart.

Craving something unique? Fatt Soon Kueh (#01-18) is here to delight you with their delectable soon kueh (S$1). These steamed dumplings filled with flavourful ingredients will leave you craving more with every bite.

Jefri The Original Botak Chicken Rice (#01-65) is also a must-try for irresistible nasi goreng ayam ($3.50). Picture this: a vibrant plate of bright orange fried rice accompanied by tender roasted chicken - perfection in the mouth.

Redhill Food Centre

Redhill Food Centre, one of Singapore's oldest hawker centres, was constructed in 1972 as a complement to the adjacent wet market, so it's one of the OGs when it comes to great hawker food in Singapore.

Seng Heng (#01-28), one of the centre's must-try stalls, is famous for its braised duck noodles.

But here's the catch: the stall is so insanely popular that they open at 7.30am and sell out by 9am. So, it's better to set your alarm clocks early for this one.

You can also give the mee siam a go at Jia Xiang Mee Siam (#01-35). This dish has thin vermicelli noodles, tau kwa, eggs, spring onions, fried croutons, and beansprouts.

Finally, if you're looking for something unique, try out red wine chicken and the carefully prepared chicken feet noodles at Zhong Ji Mian Shi (#01-85).

Tanjong Pagar Food Centre

Tanjong Pagar Plaza Market & Food Centre stands out as one of the top hawker hotspots in Tanjong Pagar.

It provides a refreshing contrast to the towering high-rise buildings surrounding it. However, be prepared for the weekday lunchtime crowd as office workers from the nearby CBD flock to this lively hub. Visit Lucky Wanton Mee (#02-32), where the chefs cook noodles in a lovely black sauce and finish them with vegetables and crispy fried wontons.

If you plan on keeping that diet on track, have a wholesome meal at Traditional Hakka Rice (#02-21) with a bowl of hakka thunder tea rice. ($4.50). This dish has fresh vegetables and a healthier oil than other hawker foods, plus you can eat it with brown rice too.

Changi Village Hawker Centre

Ah, the mouthwatering delights that await you at Changi Village Hawker Centre, one of the best hawker centres in Singapore. First, we have Weng Kee Ipoh Hor Fun (#01-19), where you can savour their delectable chicken chop hor fun for only $4. And if you're a fan of the classic Ipoh Hor Fun, they've got you covered, too, for just $3.50.

Craving some aromatic nasi lemak? Look no further than International Muslim Food Stall Nasi Lemak (#01-03). Their delicious chicken set is a steal at just $4.50, featuring a plate of fragrant coconut rice, perfectly fried egg, crispy fried chicken, fried ikan billis, and sambal. It's a delightful explosion of flavours!

For seafood lovers, Woon Woon Pek Beehoon (#01-52) is the place to be. Treat yourself to their delightful seafood platter priced at $35, brimming with freshness and goodness.

Other exciting ways you can experience Singapore's street food scene:

Learn about Singapore's hawker culture

Singapore's hawker centres have a fascinating history, evolving from illegal street vendors to being recognised on UNESCO's Heritage List. Embark on an eating tour that dives into the heart of Singapore's beloved wet and dry markets, hawker centres, and the rich heritage of iconic foods like kopi, belachan, and roti prata.

Indulge in Singapore's nostalgic flavours

Relish the flavours of the past on a two-hour retro snacks tour that'll take you to Chinatown Complex, one of the best hawker centres in Singapore. Have beloved treats from every Singaporean's childhood, like ear biscuits and carrot cake dishes, and meet the people who craft these traditional snacks.

Discover hidden culinary gems

Forget the usual Michelin-starred spots and dive into the heart of Singapore's street food scene. Join a tour that takes you to hidden gems loved by locals, where you'll taste authentic Singaporean delights. It's a culinary adventure that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also give you a deeper understanding of the rich heritage behind each dish.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is a hawker centre in Singapore? 

A hawker centre in Singapore is a food court-like establishment with various food stalls under one roof, offering affordable and diverse street food.

How many hawker centres are there in Singapore? 

There are 118 hawker centres in Singapore. NEA manages and regulates these markets, hawker centres' tenancies, and public health. 

Are hawker centres clean and hygienic? 

Hawker centres in Singapore are known for strict hygiene standards enforced by NEA, ensuring cleanliness and food safety.

Can I use credit cards at hawker centres? 

Cash is widely accepted but many hawker stalls now accept credit cards and online payments. However, carrying cash in smaller or older hawker centres is recommended.

Do hawker centres have halal food options? 

Many centres do offer halal-certified food options, catering to the Muslim community with strict halal requirements.