How to Eat Like a Local in Toa Payoh
Toa Payoh, one of Singapore's oldest neighbourhoods, boasts a thriving culinary scene with diverse, flavourful options.
Whether you're into hip cafes or old-school hawker centres, this hub has everything.
This ultimate cheat sheet covers local food spots in Toa Payoh across all budget ranges, making it a foodie's paradise where there is something to satiate every palate.
Best Hawker Centres in Toa Payoh
1. Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market and Food Centre
Step into the lively Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market and Food Centre to spend quality time with your family.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich local culture while enjoying various delicious foods.
Among the 80 food stalls, don't miss the chance to try popular stalls such as Hai Kee Noodle, Wanted Western Delights, Sin Sin Prawn Crackers, and Da Lao Fried White Kway Teow for famous Hainanese chicken rice, mouthwatering prawn noodles, spicy laksa, and much more!
Opening hours: 12pm to 9pm, Tues: Closed
Address: 210 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310210 (map)
2. Gourmet Paradise Food Court
Located in the basement of a bus interchange, Gourmet Paradise Food Court may not be an obvious first choice, but this place will not disappoint.
Make a beeline for Soon Heng Rojak, which serves rojak (a sweet and spicy fruit and vegetable salad).
The queue might be long, and the wait even longer, but trust us, it'll be worthwhile.
Opening hours: Mon to Sun:10am to 9.30pm; Sat: 9am to 9:30pm
Address: 480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, #B1-01 HDB Hub Gourmet Paradise, Singapore 310480 (map)
3. Toa Payoh Vista Market
Toa Payoh Vista Market is known for its delicious local food options.
Some must-try stalls include Hua Fong Kee Roasted Duck, which serves Chinese-style barbecued pork, and 127 (Lor 1) Fish Porridge, Fish Soup, and Seafood Soup, offering its signature lip-smacking fish soup.
Additionally, you can find fresh seafood in the market.
Opening hours: Open daily, 7am to 9pm
Address: 74 Lorong 4 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310074 (map)
4. Kim Keat Palm Food Centre
Your childhood memories will come flooding back when you visit Hai Nan Xing Zhou Beef Noodles stall at this food centre.
This food stall has earned a spot in the Singapore Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand award for its tasty beef noodles.
Later, for a quick snack, you can swing by Old Long House Popiah down the same stretch of stalls for their delicious popiah (freshly wrapped spring roll), always a great option.
Opening hours: Open daily, 6am to 11pm
Address: 22 Lorong 7 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310022 (map)
5. Toa Payoh West Market and Food Centre
People throng here on weekends for some of the best local food in Toa Payoh.
Try the fried fish ban mian (a popular Chinese noodle dish) at Fried Fish Soup or indulge in fish porridge at 88 Congee.
Additionally, they offer raw fish, commonly known as yu sheng – fresh raw fish slices with a variety of vegetables, all topped off with sesame oil.
Opening hours: Open daily, 6am to 4pm
Address: 127 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #02-02, Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre, Singapore 310127 (map)
Best Cafes in Toa Payoh
6. Shrove Tuesday
If you crave ice cream and waffles after a hearty meal, then Shrove Tuesday is the place to be in Toa Payoh.
The Nyonya chendol waffle, topped with vanilla, coconut, and gula melaka ice cream, along with red bean and chendol jelly, is something you shouldn’t miss here.
They also offer a variety of other desserts and drinks. Absolutely no need to tame your sweet tooth!
Opening hours: Sun to Thur: 12pm to 9pm, Fri & Sat: 12pm to 10pm
Address: 94 Lorong 4 Toa Payoh, #01-32, Singapore 310094 (map)
7. The Larder Cafe
If you need caffeine in your system, hit up The Larder cafe for your favourite brew.
This charming place exudes sophistication and elegance with its chic decor, making it an ideal spot for coffee and delicious lunch with family and friends.
They also offer flavourful brunch options, including chicken and avocado wrap, bacon, eggs Benedict and more.
Opening hours: Open daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: Blk 177 Toa Payoh Central, #01-124, Singapore 310177 (map)
8. Niche Savoureuse
At Niche Savoureuse, you can enjoy a variety of Western and Asian fusion dishes, ranging from burgers and pasta to generously portioned rice bowls.
The menu also features a diverse selection of coffee and tea, catering to different palates.
Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 9:30am to 7:30pm. Sat & Sun: 9am to 7:30pm
Address: 128 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, #01-833, Blk, Singapore 310128 (map)
9. Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream and Coffee
An ice cream a day keeps the sorrows away!
So, get ready to satiate your sugar cravings at Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream and Coffee - one of the best cafes not just in Toa Payoh but in Singapore, too.
A local favourite, they are known for their handcrafted ice cream and coffee.
Don't miss out on their must-try chocolate ice cream with crispy waffles. Go on and indulge without feeling remorseful!"
Opening hours: Open daily, 12pm to 10pm
Address: Blk 131 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #01-02, Singapore 310131 (map)
Best Restaurants in Toa Payoh
10. Kelly Jie Seafood (TPY Mellben)
Kelly Jie Seafood is a popular seafood restaurant in Toa Payoh known for its delicious crab dishes.
Swing by for their signature claypot crab thick bee hoon soup, where sweet crab meat and generous portions of comfy bee hoon are served in a thick, milky broth.
Also, make room for wasabi mayo prawn, coffee pork ribs and more.
Opening hours: Open daily, 12pm to 2:30pm, 4.30pm to 10:30pm
Address: Blk 211 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh, #01-11/15, Singapore 310211 (map)
11. East Treasure Chinese Restaurant
You will get a cosy ambience here to make you feel right at home.
Double-boiled tonic soup with crocodile meat, stir-fried Okayama wagyu beef and fresh mushrooms in black pepper sauce, East Treasure chilli crab and their special 60-hour dry-aged roasted duck are must-tries here.
Opening hours: Open daily, 11:30am to 2:30pm, 5:30pm to 10:15pm
Address: 470 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, #01-72, Singapore 310470 (map)
12. Swatow Seafood Restaurant
Visit this neighbourhood gem for authentic Teochew-style seafood delicacies like steamed fish and oyster omelette.
They also offer a variety of other delectable dishes, including noodles and rice.
And if you're looking to satisfy your dim sum cravings, Swatow has got you covered -remember to make a reservation if you can.
Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 9am to10pm; Sat to Sun: 8am to 10pm
Address: 181 Lorong 4 Toa Payoh, #02-602, Singapore 310181 (map)
A Day Out in Toa Payoh: Cool Things to Do
It's not all about eating. While you're in this heritage-rich place, take a tour around its hidden gems to make your trip even more enriching and memorable.
Get going on a cultural tour
Embark on a cultural exploration of the heartlands, where you'll discover the authentic lives of Singaporeans.
This down-to-earth journey kicks off in the local neighborhood of Ang Mo Kio, where you'll delve into the unique hobby of bird singing, rooted in the kampong (Malay for village) era.
Continue the adventure with a visit to a bustling wet market and a lively hawker centre before taking a detour to the heartland hub of Toa Payoh.
Leisure time with kids
Indulge in the joy of play at Kidz Amaze SAFRA Toa Payoh, Singapore's expansive indoor playground.
Created as a dreamland for children, the visually stunning and fully-themed interactive soft play centres showcase a variety of motion play events.
Exciting slides and activities pose challenges that enhance children's coordination skills as they navigate the play system, making it one of the best indoor playgrounds in town.
Plan Your Visit Like a Pro
Get an EZ Link Card for Singapore Public Transport
Acquiring an EZ-link card is a must for any tourist visiting Singapore. This card seamlessly embodies the essence of convenience, ensuring swift, accurate, and secure cashless transactions. Embraced by almost every local, the EZ-link card is indispensable for smooth transit and unlocks a world of convenience for various lifestyle needs.
Stay connected on the eSIM data pack
If you are looking for a hassle-free way to stay connected when you arrive in Singapore, then consider picking up regional Asia eSIMs, which will allow you to download a data plan directly to your phone's embedded chip. Avoid swapping physical SIM cards or dealing with pricey roaming charges.
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I get to Toa Payoh from the city centre?
Toa Payoh is conveniently connected to the city centre by various public transportation options. Hop on the MRT to reach Toa Payoh MRT station, situated in the heart of the neighbourhood, or opt for buses and taxis for easy access.
What are some popular attractions in Toa Payoh?
Some popular attractions in Toa Payoh include Toa Payoh Town Park, which is known for its lush green gardens and ponds, play at Kidz Amaze SAFRA Toa Payoh, one of Singapore's largest indoor playgrounds and the Toa Payoh Dragon playground.
Are reservations required at these local food spots?
Making reservations at the restaurants is recommended, especially during peak hours. There are late-night eateries as well in case you crave food at odd hours.
Do these restaurants in Toa Payoh offer delivery or takeaway services?
Yes, most of them provide delivery and takeaway services.