Local Delights: The Top Spots to Eat and Drink in Singapore

There's a version of Singapore that many are familiar with, a bustling metropolis of sleek skyscrapers.

However, if you know where to search, a different world emerges, one steeped in traditional beliefs and timeless customs. Food is a national passion, and the city means serious business, as evidenced by the hawker or street food culture being the first entry on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

With a background steeped in food—cooking in restaurants and hosting supper clubs—I established a food tour company that explores the backstreets and hidden culinary gems of my hometown. My mission is to help people discover the finest dining experiences in the city.

Consider this guide your gateway to the unseen side of the city, allowing you to dive deep into the authentic life of Singapore. Ready to begin?

Breakfast

If there’s one breakfast I could enjoy for the rest of my life, it would be the iconic Singapore breakfast of kaya toast at YY Kafei Dian. In a city that values efficiency, this nostalgic breakfast spot still crafts its kaya from scratch. The result is a delightfully smoky toast generously spread with homemade kaya and topped with rich butter. For those craving sourdough, Bakers Bench Bakery is my favorite spot for breakfast meetings or simply working in a cozy atmosphere for a few hours. Their sticky buns are an absolute must-try!

Coffee and snacks

Singapore boasts a vibrant coffee culture, featuring both traditional kopi and contemporary specialty coffee shops.

Let’s begin with kopi. This dark, rich brew uses robusta beans that thrive in the region’s warm temperatures and lower altitudes. There are numerous ways to enjoy kopi, so much so that infographics have been created to simplify ordering. For instance, Kopi-O kosong is served black, Kopi-C includes condensed milk, and Kopi-Peng is iced coffee (a must-remember for those humid days in the city). If you opt for takeaway, it might even come in a plastic bag.

I’m fortunate to live just a short walk from Nylon, a charming café located on the ground floor of one of the city’s oldest social housing estates. Their coffee is exceptional, and the friendly staff make it a place I keep coming back to.

While you're in the area, be sure to stop by Ji Xiang Ang Ku Kueh for what I like to call Singapore's version of mochi, handmade fresh each day. If it’s your first time trying this treat, I suggest starting with the classic flavors of peanut or sweet bean. For delicious freshly baked granola, Dearborn is an excellent choice.

Lunch

It's time to experience one of the most quintessential parts of local life – eating at a hawker center. A trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without this, and my top pick is the Beach Road Market. There are countless delicious options, but I often find myself drawn to a hidden gem: the chicken curry noodles at Da Po Hainanese. This dish exemplifies what chicken curry noodles should be. The highlight is the gravy, which has a subtle savoriness that the ingredients, like tofu puffs, absorb beautifully. This market is also well-known for its array of hiking gear shops, and I fondly remember picking up supplies for camping trips before indulging in the food market.

Mid-afternoons in Singapore can be sweltering, and if you’re seeking authentic Singaporean heritage recipes in a cool environment, Rempapa is an excellent choice. You absolutely must try the buah keluak fried rice. The buah keluak is a seed from a tree native to Indonesia and Malaysia that is quite toxic if not prepared properly! And don’t forget dessert; I highly recommend finishing your meal with some delightful kuehs (local sweets).

Dinner

Singapore boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, but if you want to dine at one, booking ahead is essential. For a more relaxed atmosphere, I suggest 808 Eating House. While reservations are encouraged, they do accept walk-ins. With a motto of 'More fun dining than fine dining,' you can expect a lively experience.

Nestled in the delightful Joo Chiat neighborhood, the chef showcases local and regional ingredients with a creative twist on traditional dishes. The outcome is a menu filled with both precise technique and bold innovation, such as barramundi served on a subtly spiced garam masala pumpkin puree drizzled with curry leaf oil.

For Indian cuisine, my top recommendation is Revolver, known for its inventive modern Indian dishes influenced by global flavors, all prepared over a grill or open flame. The service is exceptional, and the extensive drink selection promises a lively evening.

Bar

There’s so much to adore about Fura. The drinks are exceptional, and the food menu is thoughtfully crafted to complement them. As if that weren't enough, their commitment to sustainable ingredients is truly commendable. For instance, the jellyfish in the jellyfish martini comes from an overpopulated species in our oceans. I’ve tried it and highly recommend you do too! You can expect a laid-back vibe and attentive service from the all-female team.

On the same street, you’ll find Platform, a charming cocktail bar with minimalist decor. The drinks here are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Don't miss the light and refreshing Rooibos72, a mix of orange blossom water, horseradish, sparkling sake, and blue pea flower. The ambiance feels like lounging at a friend's home, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind. It’s wonderful that such cozy escapes still exist, even if just for a couple of hours!