Singapore is a true paradise for food lovers, offering a remarkable mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan cuisines. The famous food of Singapore reflects its multicultural heritage from the tender Hainanese Chicken Rice to the rich, spicy Laksa and the crispy, flavorful Roti Prata. Each dish tells the story of the nation’s diverse culinary roots.
Whether you’re exploring popular food in Singapore at Michelin-starred hawker stalls or savoring street eats at vibrant night markets, the city delivers world-class flavors at every price point. For those wondering about the most famous food in Singapore, this guide highlights 15 must-try dishes where to find them, how much they cost, and why they deserve a spot on every foodie’s list.
From popular Chinese dishes in Singapore to local favorites that define its street food culture, this is your ultimate guide to discovering the best food to eat in Singapore.
Singapore Cuisine: 15 Singapore Famous Food To Try In 2025
Singapore’s cuisine is a perfect reflection of its multicultural roots. Each dish has a history, often passed down through generations, evolving with modern influences. Here’s a list of the 15 most famous foods in Singapore that you must try when visiting in 2025.
Non-Vegetarian Singapore Cuisine
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice
Considered Singapore’s national dish, Hainanese Chicken Rice is a simple yet flavorful meal. The chicken is poached to perfection, retaining its tenderness, and served over aromatic rice cooked in chicken broth. The dish is accompanied by chili sauce, dark soy sauce, and minced ginger.
Where to Try:
- Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (Maxwell Food Centre) – One of Singapore’s most famous stalls.
- Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice (Novena) – Offers both roasted and steamed chicken.
Must Try: Classic Hainanese Chicken Rice with a side of vegetables.
Price Range: INR 500/ 7.77 Singapore Dollar onwards
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2. Chili Crab
One of Singapore’s most iconic seafood dishes, Chili Crab is stir-fried in a sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy tomato-based sauce. The dish is often eaten with mantou (fried buns), perfect for dipping into the sauce.
Where to Try:
- Jumbo Seafood (Clarke Quay) – Known for their famous chili crab.
- No Signboard Seafood (Geylang) – Popular among locals.
Must Try: Black Pepper Crab for a bolder, spicier alternative.
Price Range: INR 1,800/ 27.97 Singapore Dollar onwards
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3. Laksa
Laksa is one of the most famous food in Singapore, a spicy noodle soup that perfectly blends Malay and Chinese flavors. This iconic famous food of Singapore features a rich coconut milk-based broth filled with prawns, fish cakes, and bean sprouts. A staple of Peranakan cuisine, it comes in two main versions — Katong Laksa, the creamy and mildly spiced popular food in Singapore, and Asam Laksa, a tangier Malaysian-style variant. For travelers exploring the best food to eat in Singapore, Laksa is a must-try dish that captures the city’s authentic taste and cultural fusion.
Where to Try:
- 328 Katong Laksa (East Coast Road) – The best place for authentic Katong Laksa.
- Sungei Road Laksa (Jalan Berseh) – Charcoal-cooked for a smoky taste.
Must Try: Katong Laksa, where noodles are cut for easy eating.
Price Range: INR 600/ 9.32 Singapore Dollar onwards
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4. Hokkien Mee
Hokkien Mee is a stir-fried noodle dish made with a combination of yellow noodles and rice vermicelli, cooked in a rich seafood broth. The dish is packed with prawns, squid, eggs, and pork belly, all infused with the deep umami flavors of the broth. Traditionally, Hokkien Mee is stir-fried over high heat and served with a side of sambal chili and a squeeze of fresh lime, which enhances its tangy and spicy kick.
Where to Try:
- Geylang Lor 29 Hokkien Mee – Known for their wok hei (smoky flavor).
- Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee (Old Airport Road Food Centre) – A drier, lighter version preferred by many.
Must Try:
- The traditional wet-style Hokkien Mee, with rich, flavorful broth.
- The dry version is more intense in smokiness.
Price Range: INR 600/ 9.32 Singapore Dollar onwards
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5. Char Kway Teow
Char Kway Teow is a beloved Singaporean street food dish consisting of flat rice noodles stir-fried with dark soy sauce, eggs, Chinese sausage (lap cheong), cockles, and bean sprouts. What sets this dish apart is the technique of cooking it over high heat, creating the distinctive wok hei (smoky charred aroma).
Where to Try:
- Hill Street Char Kway Teow (Bedok South Market) – Offers a perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness.
- Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee – Known for their generous portions of cockles.
Must Try: The classic version with Chinese sausage and cockles.
Price Range: INR 500/ 7.77 Singapore Dollar onwards
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6. Satay
Satay is one of the most famous food in Singapore, featuring tender, skewered meats marinated in a flavorful mix of turmeric, lemongrass, and aromatic spices. Grilled over charcoal, these skewers develop a signature smoky taste that makes them a popular food in Singapore for both locals and tourists. Traditionally served with creamy peanut sauce, cucumber slices, and ketupat (compressed rice cakes), satay perfectly captures the rich, multicultural essence of the famous food of Singapore. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for the best food to eat in Singapore that’s both savory and authentic.
Where to Try:
- Lau Pa Sat Satay Street – The best spot for an authentic Satay experience.
- Chomp Chomp Satay (Serangoon Gardens) – Known for juicy, well-marinated skewers.
Must Try: Chicken and beef satay with a spicy peanut sauce.
Price Range: INR 400/ 6.22 Singapore Dollar onwards
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7. Bak Kut Teh
Bak Kut Teh, also known as “pork bone tea,” is one of the most famous food in Singapore, featuring tender pork ribs simmered in a fragrant broth of garlic, white pepper, and traditional Chinese herbs. The light yet flavorful soup delivers a deep umami richness that reflects the city’s culinary heritage. This popular food in Singapore is best enjoyed with steamed rice, youtiao (fried dough sticks), and braised tofu, making it a comforting and hearty meal. For those exploring popular Chinese dishes in Singapore, Bak Kut Teh is an essential experience that combines tradition, flavor, and warmth.
There are two versions:
- Teochew-style – A peppery, clear broth.
- Hokkien-style – A darker, more herbal version.
Where to Try:
- Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (Clarke Quay) – Famous for its peppery broth.
- Ng Ah Sio Pork Ribs Soup Eating House – Traditional Hokkien-style soup.
Must Try: The classic peppery broth with tender pork ribs.
Price Range: INR 700/ 10.88 Singapore Dollar onwards
Vegetarian Singapore Cuisine
8. Roti Prata
Roti Prata is a crispy, flaky Indian flatbread that is pan-fried and served with curry. Originally from South India, this dish has been localized in Singapore, with variations including cheese, eggs, and even chocolate fillings.
Where to Try:
- Springleaf Prata Place – Known for creative toppings like murtabak (stuffed prata).
- Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata – Famous for its extra crispy texture.
Must Try: Cheese Prata with Fish Curry.
Price Range: INR 250/ 3.88 Singapore Dollar onwards
9. Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a fragrant dish of coconut rice, crispy anchovies, peanuts, sambal, egg, and fried chicken. Originally a Malay dish, it is now a staple in Singapore’s hawker food scene.
Where to Try:
- Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak (Adam Road Food Centre)
- The Coconut Club (Ann Siang Hill)
Must Try: Nasi Lemak with fried chicken and extra sambal.
Price Range: INR 500/ 7.77 Singapore Dollar onwards
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Street Food in Singapore
Singapore’s street food scene is among the most famous food experiences in Singapore, celebrated for its bold flavors, rich aromas, and multicultural influences. From bustling hawker centers to lively night markets, you’ll find everything from spicy noodles to sweet desserts all at affordable prices. This guide highlights the best food to eat in Singapore, featuring local street dishes that capture the essence of the city’s vibrant and diverse culinary heritage.
10. Carrot Cake (Chai Tow Kway)
Despite its name, Singaporean Carrot Cake has nothing to do with the sweet dessert. Instead, it is a savory dish made from white radish (daikon) and rice flour, steamed, then stir-fried with eggs, garlic, and preserved radish (chai poh). There are two versions:
- White Carrot Cake – Stir-fried without sweet soy sauce, resulting in a more eggy, crispy texture.
- Black Carrot Cake – Cooked with sweet dark soy sauce for a caramelized, slightly sweet flavor.
Where to Try:
- Lau Goh Teochew Chye Thow Kway (Zion Riverside Food Centre) – Known for its light and crispy white carrot cake.
- Chey Sua Carrot Cake (Toa Payoh Food Centre) – Famous for its ultra-crispy, pancake-like texture.
Must Try: A mix of both white and black versions to compare flavors.
Price Range: INR 350/ 5.44 Singapore Dollar onwards
11. Wanton Mee
Wanton Mee is a Cantonese-style noodle dish featuring thin, springy egg noodles served with char siu (barbecued pork), dumplings, and a light soy-based sauce. There are two main versions:
- Dry Wanton Mee – Tossed in soy sauce and served with fried dumplings.
- Soup Wanton Mee – Served in a clear, fragrant broth with boiled dumplings.
Where to Try:
- Eng’s Wantan Noodle (Tanjong Katong Road) – Famous for its ultra-spicy chili sauce.
- Dunman Road Char Siew Wanton Mee – Loved for its sweet and smoky char siu.
Must Try: Dry Wanton Mee with extra fried dumplings.
Price Range: INR 450/ 6.99 Singapore Dollar onwards
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12. Kaya Toast & Soft-Boiled Eggs
Kaya Toast is a simple yet iconic breakfast dish, consisting of crispy toast slathered with kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam), served with soft-boiled eggs and coffee or tea. The eggs are usually seasoned with dark soy sauce and white pepper, creating a rich and flavorful combination.
This dish is a must-try for visitors, offering a glimpse into Singapore’s traditional coffee shop culture.
Where to Try:
- Ya Kun Kaya Toast (Multiple Locations) – A legendary spot for authentic kaya toast.
- Killiney Kopitiam (Killiney Road) – Famous for its thick, crispy bread and strong kopi (coffee).
Must Try: Traditional kaya toast with kopi-o (black coffee).
Price Range: INR 300/ 4.66 Singapore Dollar onwards
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Desserts in Singapore
13. Ice Kachang – A Colorful Shaved Ice Delight
Ice Kachang is a vibrant and refreshing dessert made with finely shaved ice, colorful syrups, red beans, jelly, sweet corn, and condensed milk. Some versions even include durian or attap seeds for extra flavor.
This dish is perfect for Singapore’s humid climate, offering a cool, sweet, and texturally rich experience.
Where to Try:
- Boon Tat Street Ice Kachang – Known for generous toppings and rich syrup flavors.
- Mei Heong Yuen Dessert (Chinatown) – Famous for its finely shaved ice and fresh ingredients.
Must Try: Ice Kachang with durian for a bold flavor.
Price Range: INR 250/ 3.88 Singapore Dollar onwards
14. Popiah
Popiah is one of the most famous foods in Singapore, a delicate wheat crepe roll packed with turnip, tofu, egg, peanuts, and a drizzle of sweet sauce. Similar to a fresh spring roll but lighter, it delivers a satisfying mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. Widely found at hawker centers, this popular food in Singapore is a must-try snack or appetizer for anyone exploring the city’s authentic local flavors.
Where to Try:
- Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah (Joo Chiat Road) – A heritage shop serving traditional popiah.
- Ann Chin Popiah (Maxwell Food Centre) – Known for its thin, delicate wrappers and rich filling.
Must Try: Classic popiah with extra crispy bits.
Price Range: INR 300/ 4.66 Singapore Dollar onwards
15. Fish Head Curry
Fish Head Curry is a bold, tangy, and spicy dish featuring a whole fish head simmered in a rich coconut-based curry. It is influenced by both Indian and Chinese cooking styles, often served with rice or bread.
The dish is loved for its tender fish meat, creamy curry, and aromatic spices.
Where to Try:
- Muthu’s Curry (Little India) – Famous for its South Indian-style fish head curry.
- Ocean Fish Head Curry (Toa Payoh) – Known for a milder, Chinese-style version.
Must Try: The traditional version with rice and pickled vegetables.
Price Range: INR 800/ 12.43 Singapore Dollar onwards
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FAQs
What is the national dish of Singapore?
Singapore’s national dish is Hainanese Chicken Rice, a simple yet flavorful dish made with poached chicken, fragrant rice, and a side of chili sauce.
What is the best street food in Singapore?
Some of the best street foods include Laksa, a spicy coconut-based noodle soup; Satay, grilled skewered meat with peanut sauce; Hokkien Mee, stir-fried prawn noodles; and Chili Crab, a sweet, spicy, and tangy seafood dish.
Is Singaporean food spicy?
Yes, many dishes like Laksa and Chili Crab have bold, spicy flavors, but milder options like Hainanese Chicken Rice and Char Kway Teow are also widely available to suit different spice preferences.
Where can I try authentic Laksa?
For an authentic taste of Laksa, visit 328 Katong Laksa, a famous eatery known for its rich coconut broth and thick rice noodles, served with prawns and fish cake, without chopsticks—just a spoon!
What is the best dessert in Singapore?
Popular desserts include Ice Kachang, a refreshing shaved ice treat with colorful syrups and toppings, and Kaya Toast, crispy toast filled with coconut jam and butter, often paired with soft-boiled eggs and kopi (coffee).
Are there vegetarian options in Singaporean cuisine?
Yes, plenty! Many famous foods of Singapore have vegetarian versions. Favorites include Roti Prata (flaky flatbread with curry), Popiah (fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables), and Vegetarian Laksa (a creamy coconut-based noodle soup with tofu).
What are the best hawker centers in Singapore?
Some of the best food to eat in Singapore can be found at iconic hawker centers like Maxwell Food Centre (home of Tian Tian Chicken Rice), Lau Pa Sat (famous for satay and grilled delights), and Old Airport Road Food Centre, known for authentic local favorites.
How can I get a Singapore visa quickly?
For a fast and reliable visa process, use OneVasco, a trusted travel and visa service provider that ensures smooth applications and quick approvals for travelers visiting Singapore.
