Hey there, foodies! Are you ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure through the vibrant streets of Singapore in search of Michelin-starred street food?
Yes, you heard that right – we’re talking about gourmet delights that come with an affordable price tag and are served with a side of Singaporean flair.
Join me as we explore some of the best spots to tantalize your taste buds with Michelin-starred street food in this culinary paradise!
1. Hawker Chan – The First Ever Michelin-Starred Street Food Stall
We kick off our journey with a visit to the legendary Hawker Chan. This place holds the esteemed title of being the first-ever street food stall in the world to receive a Michelin star. Located in Chinatown Complex Food Centre, Hawker Chan has garnered a massive following for its delectable Soya Sauce Chicken Rice.
Picture yourself savouring tender, succulent chicken drizzled in a signature blend of soya sauce, served atop fragrant jasmine rice. The flavors are simply divine, and it’s no wonder that locals and tourists alike queue up for this Michelin-starred street food experience.
2. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle – Michelin-Starred Noodles Worth the Wait
If you’re a noodle lover (who isn’t?), then Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle is a must-visit destination. This humble stall, nestled in Crawford Lane, secured a Michelin star for its incredible Bak Chor Mee, also known as minced pork noodles.
What makes it so special? Well, imagine springy noodles tossed in a tantalizing mix of vinegar, chili, and minced pork, garnished with fresh mushrooms and crispy pork lard. Each mouthful is a burst of delightful textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more. Be prepared to wait in line, but trust me, the wait is well worth it!
3. Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle – Michelin-Starred Heritage
Next on our list is another Michelin-starred gem from the world of street food – Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle. The accolades keep coming for this family-run stall, with their signature Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Char Siew Rice leaving diners spellbound.
Located at Smith Street in Chinatown, this unassuming stall offers dishes that are steeped in culinary heritage. The velvety smooth chicken and succulent char siew (barbecue pork) are the stars of the show. The secret recipe soya sauce glaze adds a touch of magic, elevating the taste to Michelin-star status!
4. A Noodle Story – A Unique Fusion of Flavors
Prepare to have your taste buds dance with joy as we head to Amoy Street Food Centre to savor the delightful offerings of A Noodle Story. This modern hawker stall has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a category that recognizes exceptional yet affordable food.
A Noodle Story is all about combining local flavors with international flair. Their Singapore-style Ramen incorporates traditional elements like prawns and char siu with a tantalizing sous-vide egg and crispy potato-wrapped prawn. It’s an ingenious fusion that captures the essence of Singapore’s diverse culinary scene in one bowl!
5. Tai Hwa Eating House – Heavenly Handmade Noodles
Let’s continue our Michelin-starred street food adventure with another noodle haven – Tai Hwa Eating House. Located in Crawford Lane, this eatery has perfected the art of crafting handmade noodles that leave diners in awe.
Tai Hwa Eating House earned its Michelin star for its amazing Bak Chor Mee. Picture a bowl filled with springy noodles, succulent pork, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables, all brought together in a delightful vinegar-infused sauce. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!
6. Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle – Multiple Michelin Stars
Not to be confused with Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle, this other gem is located in Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre. This establishment is also known for its divine Soya Sauce Chicken Rice, and it has achieved the remarkable feat of receiving not one but two Michelin stars!
The masterful preparation of the soya sauce chicken here is simply awe-inspiring. The tender, juicy chicken is cooked to perfection, and the glossy glaze of soya sauce gives it an irresistible aroma and flavor. You’ll find yourself in food heaven with every mouthful.
7. Lagnaa – Michelin-Starred Indian Street Food
Singapore’s Michelin-starred street food scene isn’t just limited to local delicacies. Lagnaa, situated in Little India, showcases the vibrant and diverse Indian street food culture that earned them a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
Lagnaa’s speciality lies in its delectable Indian curry dishes, and vegetarians are particularly in for a treat here. From the flavorful Paneer Tikka to the creamy Dal Makhani, you’ll be taken on a delightful journey through the exotic spices and rich tastes of India.
8. Tsuta – Michelin-Starred Ramen
Ramen enthusiasts, rejoice! Tsuta, located at Pacific Plaza, is Singapore’s first Michelin-starred ramen establishment. This renowned Japanese eatery brings you an extraordinary blend of traditional ramen flavors with a touch of innovation.
Their Shoyu Soba is the star of the menu – a carefully crafted soy-based broth paired with perfectly cooked noodles and tender slices of char siu. The attention to detail and the use of premium ingredients make Tsuta a must-visit destination for ramen aficionados.
9. A Michelin-Starred Nasi Lemak Experience
One cannot truly explore Singapore’s street food without savoring the beloved local delicacy – Nasi Lemak. And where better to indulge in this fragrant rice dish than at Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak, located in Adam Road Food Centre.
Selera Rasa’s Nasi Lemak earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its mouthwatering combination of coconut rice, crispy anchovies, peanuts, fragrant sambal, and succulent fried chicken or fish. The explosion of flavors with each spoonful is pure bliss.
10. 328 Katong Laksa – A Michelin-Starred Laksa Sensation
Laksa, a spicy noodle soup, is an all-time favorite among locals and visitors alike. For a Michelin-starred Laksa experience, make your way to 328 Katong Laksa in East Coast Road.
Their laksa boasts a harmonious blend of creamy coconut milk, flavorful broth, rice noodles, and fresh prawns. The distinct richness and depth of flavors will have you slurping up every last drop with a smile on your face.
Exploring Iconic Hawker Centres in Singapore
Beyond the Michelin-starred street food stalls, Singapore is home to numerous hawker centres, which are an integral part of the country’s food culture.
These bustling and vibrant food markets offer an extensive array of mouthwatering dishes, making them a must-visit for any food lover. Let’s delve into some of the most iconic hawker centres in Singapore and the delectable treats they have to offer!
1. Maxwell Food Centre – A Historic Culinary Haven
Our first stop takes us to Maxwell Food Centre, situated in the heart of Chinatown. This hawker centre boasts a rich history and is beloved for its traditional and authentic local delicacies.
One of the must-try dishes here is the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice. Tender, juicy chicken served with fragrant rice and accompanied by a delightful blend of chili and ginger sauces – it’s no wonder this stall has earned international recognition.
For something spicier, head over to Ah Tai Hainanese Chicken Rice, just a few stalls down. Their version of the dish is equally scrumptious and has garnered a loyal following over the years.
2. Old Airport Road Food Centre – A Food Lover’s Paradise
A true mecca for food enthusiasts, Old Airport Road Food Centre boasts an extensive selection of hawker stalls that cater to every taste and craving imaginable.
For seafood lovers, the Famous Sungei Road Trishaw Laksa is a must-try. Their laksa, brimming with fresh prawns, fishcakes, and a harmonious blend of spicy and creamy flavors, will leave you wanting more.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss out on the delectable Goreng Pisang (Fried Banana) from Lim’s Fried Oyster. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fried banana fritters are a delightful treat.
3. Tiong Bahru Market – A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Next up, we venture to Tiong Bahru Market, a melting pot of traditional hawker fare and modern gastronomic delights.
For breakfast or brunch, head to Tiong Bahru Teochew Kueh for their delectable Chwee Kueh – steamed rice cakes topped with savory radish. The combination of soft, delicate rice cakes and flavorful toppings creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
If you’re in the mood for something unique, make your way to Jian Bo Shui Kueh for their Signature Rice Cakes. These colorful, translucent rice cakes are topped with a mix of sweet and savory toppings, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
4. Chomp Chomp Food Centre – A Nighttime Delight
As the sun sets, head over to Chomp Chomp Food Centre in Serangoon for a true nighttime food adventure. This bustling hawker centre comes alive after dark with an array of tantalizing dishes.
One of the must-try dishes here is the famous Chomp Chomp Hokkien Mee. The flavorful prawn-based broth and generous portions of prawns and squid make this noodle dish an absolute delight.
For satay lovers, the satay stalls here serve up skewers of succulent grilled meat, served with a side of fragrant peanut sauce and cucumber slices. Satay Bee Hoon, another unique dish from this hawker centre, combines bee hoon (rice vermicelli) with an assortment of satay skewers, prawns, and cockles in a rich peanut sauce.
5. Lau Pa Sat – A Historical Gastronomic Landmark
No exploration of Singapore’s hawker centres would be complete without a visit to Lau Pa Sat. Located in the heart of the Central Business District, this iconic food market is a historical landmark and an excellent spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Satay Street, a section within Lau Pa Sat, is a must-visit for satay enthusiasts. Here, you’ll find various stalls grilling up skewers of mouthwatering meat and seafood, all accompanied by the quintessential peanut sauce.
For a taste of Singapore’s Indian culinary heritage, head to The Roti Prata House. Their crispy and flaky Roti Prata, served with a side of savory curry, is a beloved breakfast option and also a delightful treat any time of the day.
6. Newton Food Centre – A Feast of Local Flavors
Our culinary adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Newton Food Centre, an open-air hawker centre known for its wide range of local delights.
Craving some grilled seafood? The Seafood BBQ stalls at Newton Food Centre have you covered. Feast on succulent barbecued stingray, prawns, squid, and more, all topped with a flavorful sambal sauce that adds a spicy kick.
For those looking to try something exotic, head over to the BBQ Chicken Wings stall. These wings are marinated with a delectable blend of spices and then grilled to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy goodness.
7. East Coast Lagoon Food Village – A Seaside Delight
To combine the pleasure of good food with a refreshing sea breeze, make your way to East Coast Lagoon Food Village. This hawker centre, situated along the scenic East Coast Park, offers a variety of seafood and local delicacies.
Indulge in a feast of succulent seafood dishes, such as Black Pepper Crab and Chilli Crab, from various stalls at East Coast Lagoon. The sweet and savory flavors of the crab dishes will leave you in a state of bliss.
For a unique dessert experience, don’t miss out on the Ice Cream Uncle stall. This nostalgic stall serves traditional ice cream sandwiches, where creamy scoops of ice cream are nestled between colorful slices of bread. It’s a delightful treat that will transport you back in time.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Hawker Stalls with Amazing Street Food
As we continue our culinary journey through Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, let’s venture off the beaten path to discover some hidden gems – lesser-known hawker stalls that offer equally mouthwatering street food delights. These stalls may not have Michelin stars or widespread fame, but they are cherished by locals for their authentic flavors and heartwarming dishes.
1. He Ji Braised Duck Rice – A Duck Lover’s Delight
Nestled in a quaint corner of Alexandra Village Food Centre, He Ji Braised Duck Rice is a humble stall that deserves your attention. Specializing in tender and flavorful braised duck, this stall has won the hearts of duck lovers from far and wide.
The succulent duck meat, marinated in a secret blend of spices, is slow-cooked until it reaches the perfect level of tenderness. Served with fragrant jasmine rice and a side of savory braised sauce, each bite is an explosion of taste that will leave you wanting more.
2. Heng Carrot Cake – A Classic with a Twist
Carrot cake in Singapore doesn’t actually contain carrots but is a scrumptious dish made from radish and rice flour. While it’s a common hawker fare, Heng Carrot Cake at Newton Food Centre offers a unique twist on this traditional dish.
Heng Carrot Cake stands out for its innovative preparation. Instead of the usual savory version, they also offer a sweet option. The Sweet Carrot Cake is a delightful dessert-like treat, with a caramelized glaze adding a touch of sweetness to the soft and fragrant carrot cake. It’s a wonderful surprise that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
3. Da Dong Prawn Noodles – A Prawn Noodle Extravaganza
Located in the heartlands of Ang Mo Kio, Da Dong Prawn Noodles is a hidden gem cherished by locals for its rich and flavorful prawn noodles.
Their signature Prawn Noodle Soup is a heavenly bowl filled with plump prawns, tender pork ribs, and a robust prawn-based broth. The aroma alone is enough to whet your appetite, and one spoonful will transport you to a world of umami goodness. For spice lovers, don’t forget to ask for a dash of chili to elevate the dish even further!
4. Song Zhou Luo Bo Gao – A Radish Cake Sensation
If you have a soft spot for radish cakes, then Song Zhou Luo Bo Gao at Amoy Street Food Centre should be on your must-visit list. This unassuming stall specializes in crafting delectable and hearty radish cakes that have locals coming back for more.
Their pan-fried radish cakes boast a delightful crispiness on the outside, while the inside remains soft and chewy. With a savory and slightly sweet taste, it’s a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting an extra serving.
5. Guan Kee Kway Chap – A Flavorful Pork Feast
For fans of Teochew cuisine, Guan Kee Kway Chap at Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre is a true hidden gem. This stall is celebrated for its Kway Chap, a dish that combines braised pork and various pig offal with flat rice sheets.
The tender and succulent pieces of pork, along with the comforting aroma of the braising sauce, make each mouthful an indulgent treat. The dish is completed with a flavorful herbal broth that adds depth to the overall experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the pig offal for a truly authentic Teochew culinary experience.
6. Hock Hai Curry Chicken Bee Hoon Mee – A Spicy Affair
When it comes to curry noodles, most people think of the famous Laksa. However, Hock Hai Curry Chicken Bee Hoon Mee at Redhill Food Centre offers an alternative that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
Their Curry Chicken Bee Hoon Mee is a spicy and aromatic dish that features silky smooth bee hoon (rice vermicelli) and tender chunks of chicken, all bathed in a rich and flavorful curry broth. The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a comforting and satisfying bowl of goodness.
7. Ah Tan Wings – Wings Worth Waiting For
Craving some crispy and flavorful chicken wings? Ah Tan Wings at Yishun Park Hawker Centre is the place to be. This stall is famous for its lip-smacking Har Cheong Gai (Prawn Paste Chicken) wings.
Marinated in a secret blend of prawn paste and other spices, these wings are deep-fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy and succulent treat. The prawn paste marinade adds a unique umami flavor that sets these wings apart from the rest.
8. Shi Hui Yuan – A Taste of Old-Style Bak Kut Teh
Bak Kut Teh, a peppery pork rib soup, is a popular dish in Singapore. While there are numerous stalls serving this beloved dish, Shi Hui Yuan at Meiling Market & Food Centre offers a nostalgic experience with its traditional Teochew-style Bak Kut Teh.
The soup here is a hearty brew with a robust peppery flavor that warms your soul. The tender pork ribs, infused with the aromatic broth, create a truly satisfying meal. Pair the Bak Kut Teh with some steamed rice and you’re in for a delightful feast.
9. The Fishball Story – Handmade Fishball Perfection
Fishballs are a staple in many Singaporean dishes, and The Fishball Story at Golden Mile Food Centre takes pride in serving handmade fishballs that are a cut above the rest.
Using only the freshest ingredients, the fishballs here have a delightful bounce and an authentic fish flavor. Whether you have them on their own or in noodle soup, these fishballs are sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
10. Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee – A Seafood Lover’s Dream
Our final hidden gem takes us to Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee at Tiong Bahru Market. This stall is renowned for its Fried Hokkien Mee, a classic dish featuring a mix of egg noodles and rice vermicelli, stir-fried with prawns, squid, and a savory prawn broth.
The wok hei (charred aroma) from the skilled frying technique adds a smoky depth to the dish, making each mouthful a delightful explosion of flavors. For seafood enthusiasts, this dish is an absolute must-try!
In Conclusion
Singapore’s hawker culture is a treasure trove of culinary wonders, and these lesser-known hawker stalls prove that delightful street food can be found in every corner of the city.
So, the next time you find yourself in Singapore, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems. You’ll be rewarded with authentic flavors, heartwarming dishes, and the warm hospitality of the local hawkers – a true feast for your senses.
Happy hunting and bon appétit!
