Love Singapore Food

Heng Huat Fried Kway Teow

2012-01-08T16:06:00.006+08:00

Although the words "fried kway teow" and "healthy" may sound contradictory when used together, Heng Huat Fried Kway Teow in Pasir Panjang Food Centre serves one topped with generous servings of green vegetables and fried with no lard.

I ordered a $3 plate of fried kway teow and was impressed by the crunchy pieces of fresh chye sim that cleverly add a healthy component to the otherwise unhealthy dish. Well-fried with a remarkable wok hei flavour, the noodles come with the usual egg and juicy cockles but lacking in fish cake, Chinese sausage and lard.

If you are a health-conscious foodie who craves for fried kway teow, this one from Heng Huat will make you feel less guilty after eating. However I personally prefer my fried kway teow to come with plenty of lard and sweet sauce instead.

7/10

Heng Huat Fried Kway Teow
Pasir Panjang Food Centre
121 Pasir Panjang Road
#01-36
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Lao Ban Soya Beancurd

2011-12-26T13:19:00.003+08:00

Even though there are a few stalls selling soya beancurd in Old Airport Road Food Centre, only Lao Ban Soya Beancurd had a queue when I was there at 8pm on a Saturday and the queue seemed perpetually long.

After queuing for more than 10 minutes, I got my bowl of original soya beancurd which costs $1.50. My first impression when I tried the beancurd was that it seemed to taste like soya pudding instead because it does not come with syrup and it is so soft and smooth that it "dissolves" effortlessly in the mouth. Unlike the typical soya beancurd, it has a unique malt sweetness that lingers on the taste buds.

I believe the reason why Lao Ban soya beancurd is so appealing to the crowds because it is so special and different. However, if you are a fan of traditional soya beancurd like me, Lao Ban will probably not impress you enough to return for more.

7.5/10

Lao Ban Soya Beancurd
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road, #01-127

Xi Xiang Feng Curry Yong Tau Foo

2011-12-16T19:22:00.016+08:00

Having been out of action for two months, I am finally back to try the famous Xi Xiang Feng yong tau foo in Ang Mo Kio Ave 6 Food Centre which has a long queue when I was there at 515pm.

With a wide variety of steamed and deep fried dishes, vegetables and beancurd whose prices range from 30 cents to 1 dollar per piece, I chose 6 pieces of yong tau foo to go with noodle and laksa gravy which cost $4.20 in total.

I was most impressed with the special laksa gravy that is remarkably thick and flavorful yet not overly concentrated or spicy. In terms of the yong tau foo, I like the steamed homemade meat ball best. The sweet sauce is fragrant and savory and goes well with the yong tau foo.

Although it is slightly more expensive than some neighborhood yong tau foo, I have to agree that Xi Xiang Feng is one of the most delicious in Singapore. If you haven't tried it before, come down to Ang Mo Kio central and decide for yourself.

8/10

Xi Xiang Feng Yong Tau Foo
Ang Mo Kio Ave 6 Food Centre
Blk 724 Ang Mo Kio Ave 6
#01-23
Closed on Sundays

Top 1 Home Made Noodle

2011-10-15T22:19:00.007+08:00

The odds of finding two delicious home made noodle within a month must be very low. Yet, soon after featuring Poon Nah City Home Made Noodle in City Plaza, I came across Top 1 home made noodle in Chinatown.

I ordered a bowl of prawn ban mian which costs $3. Topped with prawn, minced meat, mushroom, vegetable and fried anchovy, the homemade noodle is smooth and tasty. Filled with delightful seafood broth, the soup is remarkably sweet and flavorful.

Certainly better than the home made noodle from Poon Nah City, what Top 1 lacked is a special chilli paste to go along with the noodle. Nevertheless it impresses with its outstanding seafood broth. Come down and try it for yourself.

7.5/10

Top 1 Home Made Noodle
Chinatown Branch
? Address
Bukit Timah Branch
Beauty World Centre
144 Upper Bukit Timah Road
#04-44

Cai Li Seafood Soup

2011-09-26T22:26:00.004+08:00

I came across this stall named Cai Li Fish Head Steamboat in Blk 90 Whampoa Drive Food Centre one day when the more famous one in Blk 91 Whampoa Drive Market was closed and was surprised to find that its fish head steamboat is just as good, if not better. Hence I returned today to try its seafood soup.

A bowl of seafood soup which costs $4, comes with 3 medium sized deshelled prawns, a few pieces of sotong and several huge chunks of fresh fish. Unlike the bland broth which other stalls use for their seafood soup, Cai Li's winning point lies in its superior quality soup which is indeed as thick and flavorful as the one it uses for its fish head steamboat. And unlike cheapstake ingredients eg fish cake, fish balls, crab stick which other stalls use for their seafood soup, Cai Li uses fresh fish, prawn and sotong which I am willing to pay slightly more for.

Impressed by its outstanding fish head steamboat and seafood soup, I will definitely return for back. However Cai Li is a relatively small stall with few helpers hence its service can sometimes be rather slow, so please be prepared to wait.

8/10

Cai Li Fish Head Steamboat
Blk 90 Whampoa Drive
Whampoa Drive Food Centre
#01-70

Sin Chie Toke Huan Pork Porridge

2011-09-14T21:41:00.000+08:00

Whenever I have the craving for delicious porridge, I will think of Zhen Zhen in Maxwell Food Centre. Unfortunately, Zhen Zhen only opens in the morning and the queues are invariably long. Recently I found this porridge stall inside a coffee shop along Upper Serangoon Road well-known for its curry rice but I was impressed by its porridge instead.

A bowl of pork porridge from Sin Chie Toke Huan costs $2.50 (add $0.50 for egg) and comes with sliced lean meat, minced meat balls and pig liver. Remarkably soft and silky in consistency, the piping hot porridge is fragrant and flavorful. The minced meat balls are very well-marinated with a delightful tinge of pepper.

The key to an outstanding porridge lies in two factors: its textile and its taste. But although it sounds simple, many porridge that I have tried seem to get one or the other wrong. Sin Chie Toke Huan has got both right, hence this is one porridge that you must definitely try.

7.5/10

Sin Chie Toke Huan
1018 Upper Serangoon Road
S534756
Closed on Tuesday

Poon Nah City Home Made Noodle

2011-09-03T21:53:00.006+08:00

When I was taking photos of the Hari Raya bazaar in Geylang Serai, I stumbled upon Poon Nah City Home Made Noodle inside a coffee shop on the 5th storey of City Plaza. Surprised to see many people ordering from this stall when I didn't even know that this coffee shop exists, I couldn't resist but try it myself.

Upon seeing the wide variety of home made noodles eg prawn, fish, clam, abalone etc that Poon Nah City has and the thick chilli paste that it sells, I immediately noticed the striking resemblance between this stall and China Whampoa Home Made Noodle in Whampoa Drive Market.

I ordered a bowl of prawn ban mian which costs $3 and was served within 15 minutes. Topped with prawns, minced meat, vegetables and sliced mushroom, the home made noodle is thick and tasty and the piping hot soup is filled with delightful seafood essence. The special chilli paste is remarkably spicy and burns inside the mouth.

Although I have to admit that Poon Nah City home made noodle is one of the best in Singapore, I still prefer China Whampoa home made Noodle as the latter comes with more flavorful soup and deshelled prawns. However Poon Nah City home made noodle is open till 830pm on Monday to Saturday hence there is ample opportunity for you to come down to City Plaza to try it.

8/10

Poon Nah City Home Made Noodle
City Plaza
810 Geylang Road
#05-02
S409286

Ai Xin Lor Mee

2011-08-25T22:32:00.006+08:00

On a day when I had the sudden craving for lor mee, I coincidentally found this new stall in Bendemeer Food Centre named Ai Xin Lor Mee.

A bowl of lor mee which costs $3 comes with braised meat, ngor hiang, braised egg and fried fish. Pleasantly thick and savory with the subtle fragrance of herbs and spices, the tasty gravy goes very well with the noodles. The use of traditional ingredients like braised egg and braised meat accentuates the old school flavour of this lor mee, something which is missing in most lor mee nowadays.

A simple lor mee, like what it was in the good old days, warms my heart more than any other. Perhaps this is where Ai Xin lor mee derives its name from.

7.5/10

Ai Xin Lor Mee
Bendemeer Market And Food Centre,
29 Bendemeer Road
#01-39

Dunman Duck Rice

2011-08-10T23:19:00.000+08:00

Having read great reviews of this duck rice on the first storey of Dunman Food Centre, I went with high expectations to try it.

I ordered a plate of $3 braised duck rice and a braised egg which cost $3.50 in total. Thinking that the dark colored rice was traditional yam rice, I was rather disappointed to find out that it was actually plain rice coated with braised gravy . However, Dunman duck rice makes it up with its well-marinated braised duck which is remarkably tender and tasty. The herbal soup is fragrant and savory.

Besides duck rice, Dunman Duck Rice also has duck porridge and duck kway chap which I will return to try someday.

7/10

Dunman Duck Rice
Dunman Food Centre
271 Onan Road
#01-10
S424768

Zhong Hua Mian Zhuang Stewed Beef Noodle

2011-07-24T11:56:00.007+08:00

I recently discovered that People's Park Food Center in Chinatown has a number of stalls selling traditional cuisine from Mainland China. After much hesitation, I decided to try the stall with the longest queue - Zhong Hua Mian Zhuang which has cuisine from the Henan province.

I ordered a bowl of stewed beef noodle which costs $4. What immediately impressed me was the huge chunks of stewed beef which are fleshy and tasty. Filled with the delightful sweetness of meat and spices, the flavorful soup goes very well with the handmade noodle which is soft and silky.

Zhong Hua Mian Zhuang certainly has one of the more impressive Chinese beef noodle in Singapore, comparable in terms of standard to those in restaurants like Crystal Jade yet available at coffee shop prices.

7.5/10

Zhong Hua Mian Zhuang
People's Park Food Centre
32 New Market Road
#01-1052

88 Mixed Vegetables Curry Rice

2011-07-06T19:53:00.000+08:00

Located inside an inconspicuous Kopitiam in Kovan, just beside Eddy Western Delights which I frequently patronize, I did not have a lasting impression of 88 mixed vegetables rice when I first tried it some years back. Nevertheless when I had the craving for vegetables and curry last week, I decided to try it again and this time, I was very impressed.

A plate of plain rice with fried beansprouts, cabbage and curry chicken drumstick cost only $3.50. Concentrated with the delightful sweetness of coconut milk and the subtle aroma of spices, the curry gravy is extremely thick and savory. The fried beansprouts and cabbage are juicy and tasty and the chicken drumstick is huge and fleshy.

What I enjoyed most about 88 mixed vegetables curry rice is the traditional home-cooked flavour of the dishes which is missing in most economic rice in Singapore.

7.5/10

88 Curry Fish Head
Kopitiam
Blk 210 Hougang St 21

9-11 Teochew Fish Soup

2011-06-29T22:06:00.007+08:00

While having dinner at Toa Payoh Lorong 4 Food Centre last week, I discovered 3 things.
(1) Chi Hao Liao which is famous for its $10 signature hor fun has closed down.
(2) Ocean economic rice which was previously located at Toa Payoh Lorong 8 has shifted to Toa Payoh Lorong 4.
(3) There is a kway chap stall in the food centre with an extremely long queue.
Not a fan of kway chap, I decided to try the seafood soup from 9-11 Teochew Fish Soup instead.

A bowl of seafood soup which costs $3 comes with a generous variety of ingredients including 2 medium sized prawns, sotong, sliced fish, vegetables, tomato, seaweed and bittergourd. Filled with the natural sweetness of fish, the mouthwatering soup is very flavorful even without the addition of evaporated milk. What distinguishes this fish soup from the others is the remarkable freshness of its ingredients.

9-11 Teochew fish soup is the perfect example of a healthy yet delicious fish soup. I will certainly return for more whenever I come to Toa Payoh for sunset photography.

7.5/10

9-11 Teochew Fish Soup
Blk 93 Food Centre
Toa Payoh Lorong 4
#01-44

Chai Chee Prawn Noodle

2011-06-19T21:57:00.004+08:00

Previously whenever I had the craving for delicious prawn mee soup, I would travel all the way to the Eastern part of Singapore as there is none in the Northeast region where I live. Until I found Chai Chee Prawn Noodle in Kovan Food Centre located just beside Kovan MRT station.

A bowl of Chai Chee prawn mee soup, which is reasonably priced at $3, comes with fresh prawns, lean meat and fish cake. The flavorful soup is filled with the sweet essence of prawn and pork rib and with the addition of pork lard, further accentuates its remarkable fragrance.

Besides prawn noodle, Chai Chee also has pork rib prawn noodle at $4. This is certainly one of the more outstanding prawn mee soup in the heartlands.

7/10

Chai Chee Prawn Noodle
Kovan Food Centre
209 Hougang Street 21
#01-03

Dunman 28 Fried Kway Teow

2011-06-05T21:03:00.005+08:00

Better known as Stall No 28 on the second storey of Dunman Food Centre, this stall with no signboard has won several culinary awards for its fried kway teow. Ironically I only tried it this evening because the prawn mee soup stall was closed, the duck rice was sold out and I just had the wanton mee yesterday.

A plate of fried kway teow which costs $2.50 comes in a reasonable portion. Superbly fried with a rich wok hei flavour, the delicious kway teow is remarkably savory and sweet. While some other hawkers cut costs by using small cockles, this fried kway teow is served with large juicy cockles.

Certainly praiseworthy for its outstanding culinary standards, this stall also sells a variety of local cooked food eg fried hokkien mee, fried carrot cake, fried oyster, oyster omelette etc. Come down to Dunman Food Centre and try.

7.5/10

28 Fried Kway Teow
Dunman Food Centre
271 Onan Road
#02-28
Singapore 424768

Paradise Inn Braised Hor Fun With Venison In Black Bean Sauce

2011-05-26T21:51:00.002+08:00

Reminscent of the famous Geylang Lorong 9 beef hor fun, the braised hor fun with venison in black bean sauce from Paradise Inn Restaurant left me a lasting impression when I had dinner there.

A small plate of braised venison hor fun which costs $12++ comes in a satisfactory portion for 2 persons. Extraordinarily thick and flavorful, the savory black bean sauce gravy complements the well-fried hor fun with an irresistable wok hei fragrance. The marinated venison is extremely tender and tasty.

Beside braised venison hor fun, we also tried the coffee pork ribs and sambal kang kong which were also very impressive. Come down to Paradise Inn Restaurant and try for yourself.

7.5/10

Paradise Inn Restaurant
http://www.paradisegroup.com.sg/inn/index.html

Fei Kee Claypot Chicken Rice

2011-05-18T21:47:00.000+08:00

Inside an old coffee shop along Beach Road lies an insconspicuous claypot chicken rice stall whose sign read "waiting time at least 15 minutes". I'm glad that I didn't give it a miss when I walked past because it was indeed worthwhile waiting for.

I ordered a bowl of claypot chicken rice for one which costs only $4. Unlike other traditional claypot rice, Fei Kee claypot rice is topped with generous pieces of fresh and crunchy cabbage which add a delightful sweetness to the distinctive charred flavour of the fragrant rice. If you dislike removing pieces of bones when having claypot rice, you will be happy to know that Fei Kee claypot rice uses boneless grade A chicken thigh meat which is remarkably fleshy and tasty.

With the use of superior quality ingredients eg boneless chicken meat, Fei Kee claypot chicken rice certainly impressed me as one of the best in Singapore. Open until 730pm daily except on Sunday, this will definitely make a satisfactory dinner for you and your family.

7.5/10

Fei Kee Claypot Chicken Rice
Luk Lu Eating House
341 Beach Road
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Todai International Seafood And Sushi Buffet

2011-05-11T17:03:00.023+08:00

Newly opened at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, I did not expect Todai Restaurant to be so crowded on a weekday evening when I was there to try its international buffet dinner. Fortunately, the service was remarkably efficient and we were able to start eating without much waiting.

Looking at the generous selection of mouthwatering dishes ranging from seafood on ice, sushi and sashimi to churrasco, pizza and pasta, salads, tempura, cold cuts, Korean snacks, desserts and cakes etc, I had a really hard time deciding what to try first.

A big fan of Brazilian churrasco, I was most impressed with the outstanding grilled steak that is exceptionally flavorful and succulent.

My partner enjoyed the special snow crabs which are sweet and fleshy as well as the fresh oysters which are huge and juicy.

She was also delighted by the assortment of sushi and sashimi available.

The cooked food section, on the other side of the spacious restaurant, greeted us with a wide variety of Chinese and Western cuisine which included dory fish with cream Mornay sauce, roast beef with Jalapeno Demi sauce, mushroom with Demi cheese sauce, clam stew, teriyaki parrot fish and local favorites like fried rice and our signature chilli crab with its irresistable gravy. The tempura prawns are cripsy and tasty.

We completed our sumptuous dinner with delectable cakes, pastries and Korean strawberries from the dessert section.

Although the prices of Todai International Buffet may seem rather exorbitant, the spectacular spread of food, sushi and dessert, as well as the excellent culinary standard, make every single dollar worthwhile. It was a very memorable dining experience and I will definitely return to try the other dishes that I have missed out.

8/10

Todai International Seafood And Sushi Buffet
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
2 Bayfront Avenue B2-001
Singapore 018972

Lunch: 11.30am to 4.30pm (last order at 4.00pm)
Mondays to Thursdays – S$42++ (adult), S$22++ (child)
Fridays to Sundays, Public Holidays, Eve of Public Holidays – S$58++ (adult), S$26++ (child)

Dinner: 5.30pm to 11.00pm (last order at 10.30pm)
Mondays to Thursdays – S$54++ (adult), S$26++ (child)
Fridays to Sundays, Public Holidays, Eve of Public Holidays – S$58++ (adult), S$26++(child)

Blanco Court Fish Soup

2011-04-28T22:04:00.010+08:00

Many foodies in Singapore have been searching for the original Blanco Court fish soup that was previously located at Blanco Court Food Centre but failed. I thought I found the answer when I saw a long queue in front of this stall along Beach Road but I was sadly mistaken.

I ordered a bowl of Blanco Court mixed fish soup and plain rice which cost $5.50 in total. Topped with spinach and fried egg, the tasty soup is served with numerous pieces of battered fried fish and thick slices of fresh fish. I was however disappointed that the flavours of the fish, evaporated milk and spinach somehow fail to blend with one another in the soup. Moreover, I felt that the fried egg could have been fresher and the chilli sauce less mediocre.

Looking at the long queues during lunch time despite its higher prices, I guess many will disagree with me that this Blanco Court fish soup is a far cry from the original. Come down to Beach Road and try it for yourself.

7/10

Blanco Court Sliced Fish Bee Hoon
Luk Lu Eating House
341 Beach Road
Closed on Sundays

Coffee Hut Coffee

2011-04-12T15:55:00.012+08:00

Located in Jalan Berseh Food Centre just beside the famous black & white fish soup, Coffee Hut has the reputation of having one of the best coffee in Singapore. Hence I decided to kill two birds with one stone when I was there to have the sumptuous fish soup for lunch last week.

I ordered a cup of coffee which costs $1.10. Rich with the distinctive aroma of coffee beans, the outstanding coffee is delightfully thick and flavorful.

Certainly more impressive than most coffee from franchises and food centres, Coffee Hut's coffee gave me an unexpected caffeine boost, keeping me incredibly awake for the entire afternoon and evening.

7.5/10

Coffee Hut
Jalan Berseh Food Centre
#02-43
166 Jalan Besar
S208877

Rong Hua Milk Corn Shake

2011-04-05T17:13:00.012+08:00

Previously blogged about its special teh cino, I decided, for a change, to try the milk corn shake from Rong Hua Hot and Cold Drinks at Golden Mile Food Centre last weekend.

Highly addictive with plenty of saccharine goodness, the milk corn shake, which costs $2.50, comes with smooth blended milk ice topped with fragrant cream and sweet corn.

If you have a sweet tooth, you must try Rong Hua's milk corn shake which will certainly keep you coming back for more.

7.5/10

Rong Hua Hot And Cold Drinks
Golden Mile Food Centre
505 Beach Road #B1-08
S199583

Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat

2011-03-12T22:48:00.007+08:00

Having tried the various famous fish head steamboats in Singapore, I still like the one from Nan Hwa Chong along North Bridge Road most.

Reasonably priced at only $20, a small pomfret steamboat for two comes with satisfactory portions of fresh and tasty pomfret, vegetables and yam pieces. Filled with the concentrated sweetness of fish and the subtle aroma of herbs and spices, the mouthwatering soup is definitely the distinguishing factor for this fish head steamboat. However, please refrain from asking for a refill of the soup unless necessary as the refill is considerably diluted compared with the original.

Nan Hwa Chong fish head steamboat is certainly one of the best in Singapore. To beat the crowd which can be overwhelming during weekends, do try to reach there before 630pm.

7.5/10

Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat Corner
814 North Bridge Road

Dunman Road Char Siew Wanton Mee

2011-02-26T22:32:00.004+08:00

What makes an outstanding wanton mee? I found the answer last weekend when I had Dunman Road Char Siew wanton mee at Dunman Food Centre.

A big plate of wanton mee which costs only $3 comes with a generous portion of handmade noodles topped with char siew (marinated roast pork) and wanton (meat dumplings). Unlike other wanton noodles, the special egg-flavoured noodle is so fragrant and tasty that you can eat it on its own. Not forgetting the extraordinary chilli sauce that is so unbelievably spicy that it actually burns inside the mouth, leaving an unforgettable aftertaste. Fortunately the owner never fails to oblige me whenever I ask for a bigger bowl of the anchovy-flavoured soup.

The interesting story behind Dunman Road Char Siew Wanton Mee is that it was started by a fellow worker of another wanton noodle stall in the same hawker centre. I shall not mention the name as the disciple has clearly surpassed the master, yet remaining humble and providing good service to customers. Come down and try Dunman Road Char Siew Wanton Mee if you haven't. It's definitely one of the best in Singapore.

8/10

Dunman Road Char Siew Wanton Mee
Dunman Food Centre
271 Onan Road
#02-19
S424768
Closed on Thursday

Mei Xiang Black & White Fish Soup

2011-02-20T15:57:00.005+08:00

When I tasted the best fish soup that I ever had in my life, the first thought that came to my mind was to buy it back for my family. Unfortunately the sign in front of the stall read "Dine in only". It didn't take me long to figure out why. With an extraordinary fish soup like this, this stall can certainly afford to set its eccentric rules eg open at 10.12am, $0.30 for extra chilli, only mixed black and white fish soup etc and still keep its customers coming back for more.

Mei Xiang black & white fish soup comes in two sets: $7 for big and $5 for small, inclusive of rice and chilli. In case you wonder why this fish soup is so expensive, let me assure you that the amount of fish you find inside is worth every dollar you spend, if not more.

The fresh slices of "white" fish are remarkably thick and fleshy while the generous chunks of battered "black" fish are delightfully fragrant and flavorful. Filled with the concentrated sweetness of fish and spices, the mouthwatering soup is so irresistable that I could hardly stop drinking after having my first spoonful.

Undoubtedly the best fish soup in Singapore, Mei Xiang certainly lives up to every bit of its reputation. If you are looking for a special fish soup that will blow you off your feet, you must not miss Mei Xiang at Jalan Berseh Food Centre.

8.5/10

Mei Xiang Black & White Fish Soup
Jalan Berseh Food Centre
#02-44
166 Jalan Besar
S208877
Closed on weekends & public holidays

N&B Soya Bean Milk

2011-02-15T21:58:00.005+08:00

Located at Hougang Green Shopping Mall directly opposite Arnolds Fried Chicken, I did not know that N&B Snacks has fantastic soya bean milk until I tried it last week.

Thick and fragrant with the delightful goodness of soya beans, N&B soya bean milk is remarkably creamy and sweet.

Although slightly more expensive than most soya bean milk at $1.30 a cup, N&B soya bean milk is more concentrated and tasty. I certainly wouldn't hesitate paying the slight difference in price to enjoy better quality soya bean milk from N&B Snacks.

7.5/10

N&B Snacks
Hougang Green Shopping Mall
21 Hougang Street 51, #01-01

Sinar Murni Mee Soto

2011-02-07T22:31:00.018+08:00

When I was at Changi Jetty for photography last weekend, I was hesitant about what to have for dinner at Changi Village until I saw two customers having mee soto. Tempted by the appearance of the mouthwatering mee soto, I decided to give it a try.

Served in a big bowl topped with piping hot soup, Sinar Murni mee soto, which costs only $2.50, is served with a satisfactory portion of shredded chicken and a begedil (deep fried potato patty). The savory soup is filled with the delightful aroma of spices and the sweet essence of chicken.

Being a fan of mee soto, I really cannot stand those which are served in a small plate filled with miserable amount of lukewarm soup. On the other hand, Sinar Murni mee soto is the exact opposite, generous and impressive. Come down to Changi Village and try it today.

7.5/10

Sinar Murni Muslim Food
Changi Village Market and Food Centre
Blk 3 Changi Village Road #01-39
S500003

Robert Mee Siam

2011-01-30T00:17:00.000+08:00

Popular mee siam stalls in Singapore seem to have some things in common. Somehow their mee siam are less costly than others and they only open in the morning. Robert mee siam at Whampoa Market is no exception.

Inexpensively priced at $2 a plate, it is not surprising to see a queue in front of Robert Mee Siam especially on weekends. The queue was even longer previously when they used to sell lontong too but had stopped in recent months.

Spicy and sweet with a sourish tinge of tamarind (assam), the savory gravy complements the fine bee hoon very well. Topped with egg and bean curd, this mee siam is definitely value for money.

7.5/10

Robert Mee Siam
Whampoa Drive Food Centre
Blk 91 Whampoa Drive
#01-43

Chong Pang Nasi Lemak

2011-01-20T12:14:00.000+08:00

Hidden in the far corner of a row of shophouses along Sembawang Road, Chong Pang Nasi Lemak is one of the more famous nasi lemak in Singapore.

Yet, in spite of its popularity, the prices of its dishes are very reasonable. A plate of nasi lemak with fried egg, curry vegetables, fried ngor hiang (Hokkien meat roll) and curry potato cost only $3.20. Fragrant with the delightful essence of coconut milk, the flavorful rice goes very well with the spicy-sweet chilli paste. Very worthy of mention is the curry vegetables that is exceptionally savory.

Chong Pang nasi lemak certainly lives up to its reputation as one of Singapore's best. With an impressive array of dishes available for mix and match, this is one nasi lemak that you must not miss.

8/10

Chong Pang Nasi Lemak
447 Sembawang Road
Opening hours: 5pm – 7am

Jaan West Coast Mee Kuah

2011-01-12T21:19:00.005+08:00

Even though there are so many Indian Muslim food stalls in Tekka Market, I wondered why I had to wait close to half an hour for my dinner from Jaan West Coast stall. I found the answer when I tasted the delicious mee kuah which costs only S3.

Topped with thick and spicy gravy that is pleasantly savory, the tasty mee kuah comes with egg, mutton, beans and vegetables. What I like about Jaan West Coast mee kuah is the delightful pieces of mutton that makes it "non-vegetarian", unlike some of the less impressive but more expensive mee kuah in Singapore that are devoid of meat.

If you are a fan of mee kuah like me, you must not miss this stall at Tekka Food Centre. Complete your meal with a glass of hot teh cino, which I will introduce someday.

7.5/10

Jaan West Coast
Tekka Food Centre
Blk 665 Buffalo Road
#01-249

Arnold's Fried Chicken

2011-01-06T22:19:00.006+08:00

Strongly recommended by some listeners on a popular radio show recently as having the best fried chicken in Singapore, I decided to try Arnold's soon after hearing about it.

Conveniently located at Hougang Green Shopping Mall not too far away from my home, I ordered Arnold's two piece chicken set which costs $6.40. Served with fries and coleslaw, the fried chicken was indeed hot and crispy on the outside while fleshy and tender on the inside. What I found lacking in Arnold's chicken, however, was the "eleven herbs and spices" that make KFC's chicken "finger-licking good".

In terms of freshness and crispiness, Arnold's chicken certainly has the advantage over other fried chicken. But when it comes to flavour and value for money, I still prefer KFC over Arnold's. Come and try for yourself if you haven't.

7/10

Arnold's Fried Chicken
21 Hougang Street 51, #01-49
Hougang Green Shopping Mall
Singapore 538719

Astons Specialties Wagyu Ribeye Steak

2010-12-31T10:00:00.000+08:00

Even though I am not a steak connoisseur, I could not resist the temptation of trying the wagyu ribeye steak from Astons Specialties which was offered at a promotional price of $38.90 for 200 grams.

Served with two free side dishes (baked potato and tasty rice), the Grade 5/6 wagyu steak is well-marbled with an exceptionally smooth texture and a remarkably tender consistency. Another differentiating factor of wagyu beef is its delightful succulence with mouthwatering juices exuding with every bite.

Given its expensive price, I certainly had very high expectations of Astons' wagyu ribeye which unfortunately, failed to impress me to return for more. Somehow I still prefer its prime ribeye that is not only more robust and flavorful but costs less than half the price of the wagyu.

7/10

Astons Specialties
Sembawang Shopping Centre
#03-14
604 Sembawang Road

Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice

2010-12-23T01:43:00.000+08:00

Not a fan of scissors cut curry rice after trying some not-so-good ones in Singapore, I finally managed to try the original Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice at Jalan Besar today and it indeed lives up to every bit of its reputation.

Delightfully drenched with irresistable curry gravy, a plate of Beach Road curry rice served with curry chicken, fried cabbage and fried egg, costs only $2.60. The distinguishing factor of this curry rice is its special curry gravy which is exceptionally rich and flavorful with just the right sweetness, spiciness, thickness and consistency. Even though the serving was reasonably large, I found myself finishing it mouthful after mouthful and had to resist the temptation of ordering another plate.

Unlike the not-so-good scissors cut curry rice whose gravy were either too sweet or too salty, too thick or too diluted, Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice certainly deserves commendation for its outstanding curry gravy that must be the best in Singapore.

8/10

Beach Road Scissors Cut Curry Rice
229 Jalan Besar
Open daily from 11am to 3.30am

Liang Zhao Ji Duck Rice

2010-12-16T23:10:00.005+08:00

Located beside the famous Hoover Rojak in Whampoa Food Centre, Liang Zhao Ji also has its queue of customers waiting to have braised duck rice for lunch.

I ordered a plate of duck rice which costs $3. Expecting the dark-colored rice to be the traditional yam rice served in some braised duck stalls, I was slightly disappointed to find out that it was just white rice thoroughly coated with braised gravy. Nevertheless the rice was soft and savory. I enjoyed the delicious braised duck which was fleshy and tasty. The chilli paste, which was spicy mixed with a sourish tinge, didn't leave much of an impression.

Although nowhere near the best of the braised duck rice that I have tasted, Liang Zhao Ji certainly has its fair share of fans who feel otherwise. Perhaps I should have tried its duck porridge instead.

6.5/10

Liang Zhao Ji Duck Rice
Whampoa Food Centre
Blk 90 Whampoa Drive
#01-07

Joo Chiat Hokkian Prawn Mee

2010-11-28T14:08:00.005+08:00

No other food can bring me more reminiscence of my childhood than a bowl of traditional prawn mee soup from Joo Chiat. Back in those days, a small bowl of prawn mee was to be shared between several people eg myself and my cousins, certainly delicious but not at all satisfying. Thus today I can't help but feel very privileged to be living in Singapore, an affluent society and a food paradise.

Recently relocated to a new coffee shop further down the road, Joo Chiat Hokkian Prawn Mee finally has a prominent signboard featuring its name. Previously I have only known it as the prawn mee soup inside the old coffee shop with Fei Fei Wanton Mee.

I ordered a $3 bowl of prawn mee soup which comes with sliced prawns, lean meat and pork rib. What is most outstanding about this prawn mee is its mouthwatering soup which is concentrated with the irresistable essence of prawn and pork rib. The remarkable flavour is accentuated by the fragrance of fried onion shallots, making this prawn mee soup one of the best I have tasted in Singapore.

If you are craving for the old school type of prawn noodle with no fanciful ingredients eg big prawns, Joo Chiat Hokkian prawn mee is just the right one for you.

8/10

Joo Chiat Hokkian Prawn Mee
No 59
Joo Chiat Place

Uncle Sim Curry Chicken Noodle

2010-11-13T17:05:00.007+08:00

Previously blogged about his delicious economic rice in Whampoa Food Centre, I was delighted to find out that Uncle Sim has opened a new curry chicken noodle stall there.

Feeling really hungry that evening, I ordered the larger $4 bowl instead of the usual $3. Absolutely value for money, the curry chicken noodle came with a huge chicken drumstick, several pieces of chicken, egg, potato and you tiao (fried Chinese doughstick). The mouthwatering curry gravy is thick and savory with an authentic homemade flavour. The fresh chicken is undoubtedly fleshy and tasty.

One of the more outstanding curry chicken noodle in Singapore, Uncle Sim will certainly give fellow competitors like Hock Hai a run for their money.

7.5/10

Uncle Sim Curry Chicken Noodle
Blk 90 Whampoa Food Centre
#01-76

Yummy Rice Shop Economical Rice

2010-10-24T15:37:00.003+08:00

Certainly one of the more popular economical rice stalls in Albert Centre Food Centre, it is not uncommon to see a queue forming in front of Yummy Rice Shop during dinner time.

While it has a variety of appealing rice sets eg Hainanese curry chicken set, Teochew braised pork set, good taste fish etc, I chose to order its ala carte dishes instead. A plate of rice with curry chicken drumstick, fried brocolli with cauliflower and fried omelette cost only $2.90.

I like the curry chicken drumstick that is fleshy and tender and goes very well with the savory curry gravy. Filled with a distinctive home-cooked flavour, the fried brocolli and cauliflower and the egg omelette certainly left a good impression.

If you are in favour of a simple economic rice that is value for money and satisfying for dinner, come down to Bugis and try Yummy Rice Shop economic rice today.

7.5/10

Yummy Rice Shop
Albert Centre Market & Food Centre
270 Queen Street #01-53

Deenas Sarabat Stall Teh Tarik

2010-10-17T20:41:00.005+08:00

Frequently patronizing Golden Shoe Food Centre for dinner after a long day at work, nothing warms my heart more than a cup of teh tarik (translated as pulled milk tea in English) from Deenas Sarabat Stall.

What is so special about this teh tarik compared with the countless others in Singapore is the special fragrance of the tea leaves which blends so perfectly with the saccharine sweetness of milk, making it a satisfying thirst quencher after a sumptuous dinner.

So wonderful that I can drink two cups at one go, come down and try the teh tarik from Deenas Sarabat Stall today.

7.5/10

Deenas Sarabat Stall
Golden Shoe Food Centre
50 Market Street #02-05

365 Potong Curry Rice

2010-10-03T19:19:00.000+08:00

Located opposite Shaw Towers at Balestier inside Kian Lian coffee shop which is famous for its bak kut teh, I was surprised to find 365 Potong Curry Rice which has a wide variety of curry dishes, including my favorite curry mutton.

I ordered a plate of plain rice with curry vegetables, egg omelette and curry mutton which cost $3.50.

Rich with the concentrated fragrance of spices and curry powder, the curry gravy is exceptionally thick and savory, coating the tender and fleshy pieces of mutton. The egg omelette is tasty with a subtle charred aroma and the vegetable curry has a distinct traditional flavour.

If you are a fan of curry mutton, 365 Potong Curry Rice is one of the few stalls in Singapore with delicious curry mutton. Come down to Balestier and try it for yourself.

7/10

365 Potong Curry Rice
Kian Lian Coffee Shop
365 Balestier Road
Singapore 329785

Xin Xiang Gang Claypot Chicken Rice

2010-09-19T22:56:00.006+08:00

Definitely not my first time having claypot rice, I never seemed to learn my lesson as I scalded my finger against the scorching surface of the claypot again. This happened when I was feeling very hungry after waiting a long time for Xin Xiang Gang claypot rice. Fortunately it was worth every bit of the wait (and the pain).

A bowl of claypot chicken rice which costs only $3.50 comes with generous servings of chicken and Taiwanese sausage. The remarkable charred fragrance of the claypot rice goes very well with the lingering flavours of salted egg and dark soya sauce.

Besides having special claypot rice eg sea cucumber, seafood, pork rib etc, Xin Xiang Gang at Albert Centre Food Centre in Bugis also has a variety of Hong Kong congee, curry fish head and other cooked dishes that will certainly satisfy your taste buds. Come down and try it for yourself.

7.5/10

Xin Xiang Gang Congee Centre Traditional Claypot Rice
Albert Centre Market & Food Centre
270 Queen Street #01-55
S180270

Beach Road Fried Fish Bee Hoon Soup

2010-09-12T10:27:00.006+08:00

I was never a fan of fried fish bee hoon soup until I tried the one from this stall at Whampoa Drive Food Centre yesterday.

Reasonably priced at $3.50, Beach Road fried fish bee hoon soup comes with a very satisfactory portion of bee hoon topped with generous pieces of tasty fried fish. The winning point of this special fried fish bee hoon is the mouthwatering soup which contains the irresistable sweetness of evaporated milk blended so perfectly with the delightful fragrance of fish.

Certainly one of the best fried fish bee hoon I have tasted in Singapore, I will definitely come back for more.

8/10

Beach Road Fish Head Bee Hoon
Blk 91 Whampoa Drive #01-42
Whampoa Drive Food Centre
S320091

Katong Chicken Curry Puff

2010-08-29T22:25:00.005+08:00

One of the more famous curry puffs in Singapore, I was initially doubtful if Katong Chicken Curry Puff really existed. Frequently patronising Marine Parade Food Centre for dinner, I did not recall seeing this stall before. Today when I was there in the afternoon, I finally found it hidden in some inconspicuous corner.

I ordered a chicken curry puff which costs $1. The distinctive aroma of the spices and the robust flavour of the curry powder make this curry puff outstanding. Bite through the soft crust to savour the warm tasty filling made of potato and chicken.

Somehow I just wished that the chicken came in bigger chunks like the ones in Wang Wang Crispy Curry Puff at Old Airport Road Food Centre. Nevertheless I enjoyed the special curry flavour of Katong chicken curry puff which makes it a great snack for breakfast or tea.

7/10

Katong Chicken Curry Puffs
Marine Parade Food Centre
Blk 84 Marine Parade Central
#01-132

Char-Grill Bar Char-Grilled Chicken

2010-08-14T05:15:00.001+08:00

Yet another rapidly expanding Western food chain that infiltrates coffee shops in Singapore, Char-Grill Bar certainly gives Astons and Botak Jones a run for their money.

I ordered the recommended char-grilled chicken which costs only $5.90 inclusive of 2 free side dishes. I decided to have California raisin rice and baked potato with my chicken. The service was fast for a weekend lunch and I received my order within 15 minutes.

Topped with a thin layer of savory mushroom sauce, the specialty char-grilled chicken is fleshy and delectable, though the charred aroma could be more distinctive. The California raisin rice is sweet and tasty while the baked potato is fragrant and flavorful.

Besides grilled chicken, Char-Grill Bar also has an impressive variety of Western dishes eg steak, fish, burgers, salads, sausages etc at affordable prices.

7.5/10

Char-Grill Bar
Kim San Leng Coffee Shop
Blk 417 Yishun Ave 11

Tong Fong Fatt Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice

2010-08-07T17:13:00.005+08:00

With quite a number of franchises in Singapore, I used to doubt the standard of Tong Fong Fatt Hainanese boneless chicken rice until I tried it for myself last week. In fact I was at Golden Shoe Food Centre for its nasi lemak but it was closed on a Wednesday evening, so I decided to try this chicken rice instead.

I ordered the $3.50 portion which comes with a plate of steamed white chicken, a bowl of rice and a bowl of soup. I was impressed by the superior quality of the rice, every golden yellow grain is filled with delightful chicken essence with remarkable fragrance. The steamed chicken is fresh and tasty but not exactly boneless as its name suggests. The chicken soup is also outstanding in terms of flavour and aroma.

If you are a fan of chicken rice, Tong Fong Fatt is a must try. It is certainly one of the more delicious chicken rice in Singapore.

7/10

Tong Fong Fatt Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice
Golden Shoe Carpark
50 Market Street
#02-26
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Chef Hainanese Western Food Mixed Grill

2010-08-01T16:05:00.013+08:00

My recent fascination with Western food brought me back to Chef Hainanese at the newly renovated Commonwealth Drive Food Centre. Previously tried and blogged about its grilled steak two years ago, I decided to have its mixed grill for dinner today.

Incredibly priced at only $6, this must be the cheapest and most comprehensive mixed grill in Singapore. Believe it or not, the fabulous mixed grill comes with pork chop, chicken chop, fish fillet, fried egg, sausage, French fries, baked potato and salad. I seriously couldn't think of anything else I would like to have in this mixed grill. In spite of its remarkable value for money, the superb quality of the dishes was not at all compromised.

If you are a foodie like me, you must not miss Chef Hainanese's mixed grill which is simply sumptuous and gratifying. Just by looking at the picture, I'm sure you will be craving for it very soon.

8/10

Chef Hainanese Western Food
Commonwealth Drive Food Centre
Blk 3 Commonwealth Drive
#01-04

Rong Hua Teh Cino

2010-07-26T22:12:00.000+08:00

Otherwise known as the tea version of cappuccino, teh cino is best described as milk with a layer of tea on top. I decided to try this drink out of curiosity a few months ago and fell in love with it since then.

Having tried the teh cino from several places, my favourite is the one from Rong Hua Hot And Cold Drinks located in the basement of Golden Mile Food Centre.

I usually order the hot teh cino which costs $1.20. What makes this teh cino outstanding is how the thick saccharine milk layer below blends so well with the distinctive fragrant tea layer above, creating a memorable bitter-sweet interface.

So do remember to try this special teh cino from Rong Hua the next time you dine at Golden Mile Food Centre.

7.5/10

Rong Hua Hot And Cold Drinks
Golden Mile Food Centre
505 Beach Road #B1-08
S199583

Western Barbeque Mixed Grill

2010-07-18T20:33:00.010+08:00

Having blogged about its chicken chop previously, I decided to try the mixed grill from Western Barbeque at Old Airport Road Food Centre today and it was simply extraordinary.

For only $7.50, the sumptuous mixed grill comes with an enormous piece of chicken chop, a juicy slab of pork chop and a tasty chunk of lamb chop. Enjoy this wholesome combo meal with French fries, a fried egg and a butter bun.

Other than the expensive meaty buffet dinner at Carnivore, I cannot think of any other meal that is as sinful as this mixed grill. If you are a meat lover like me, you must not miss Western Barbeque's mixed grill which will certainly leave you feeling very satisfied and wanting to return for more.

8/10

Western Barbeque
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road #01-53

Lai Heng Fried Kway Teow

2010-07-09T22:32:00.008+08:00

Surrounded by ERP gantries and expensive parking rates, Lau Pa Sat Festival Market is one of the last places that I would patronise for dinner. Until recently when I went there, did I realise the wonderful variety of foodstuff and their affordable prices, even though it is located in the heart of Shenton Way.

I ordered a plate of Lai Heng fried kway teow which costs only $3 ($2.70 if you pay by the Kopitiam card), cheaper than in most foodcourts. Expertly fried with a distinctive charred aroma, the flavorful kway teow is served in a semi-moist consistency and coated with sweet gravy. Topped with fresh cockles and slices of Taiwan sausage, Lai Heng fried kway teow comes in a reasonable portion that is certainly satisfactory for dinner.

Besides local foodfare, Lau Pa Sat also has a wide range of International cuisine eg Taiwanese, Korean, Italian etc. I would certainly come back here for dinner again soon.

7.5/10

Lai Heng Fried Kway Teow
Lau Pa Sat Festival Market
18 Raffles Quay
Stall 77

Mellben Seafood

2010-06-22T07:28:00.000+08:00

So famous that it needs no introduction, Mellben Seafood at Ang Mo Kio is well-known for its outstanding crab dishes. Despite intense competition from Uncle Leong Seafood located just diagonally opposite, Mellben always emerged the winner with its longer queues.

Having dinner with a friend there some Fridays ago, we ordered a chilli crab, a claypot crab beehoon and a plate of fried kang kong with abalone mushroom, which cost close to $100 inclusive of drinks.

Living up to every bit of its reputation, the claypot crab beehoon is undoubtedly one of the best in Singapore. Filled with the concentrated sweetness of crab and the delightful fragrance of milk and spices, the mouthwatering gravy is creamy and flavorful.

The irresistable chilli crab with its luscious spicy gravy, goes very well with the fried man tou (Chinese buns).

Having dined at both Mellben and Uncle Leong on several occasions, I still could not tell the difference between the quality of their crab dishes.

Although more people seem to like Mellben as evident by its longer queues, I prefer Uncle Leong simply because I find that its prices are less expensive and its service faster. Try the two and decide for yourself too.

7.5/10

Mellben Seafood
Blk 232 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3
#01-1222

Bao Ma Economic Rice

2010-06-17T22:31:00.007+08:00

Frequently patronising Golden Mile Food Centre for dinner, I wondered how I could have missed this delicious economic rice located on its basement. With a wide variety of dishes including its famous curry fish head, I decided to try its fried brocolli, fried egg omelette and braised chicken after much hesitation.

Priced more reasonably than most economic rice, a plate of plain rice with the 3 dishes above cost only $2.50. Well-marinated with a subtle tinge of ginger spiciness, the braised chicken is remarkably tasty and succulent. The fried brocolli is fresh and crunchy while the egg omelette is fragrant and flavorful.

Having dishes with quality so close to home-cooked standard and yet prices so affordable, Bao Ma certainly has one of the best economic rice in Singapore.

8/10

Bao Ma Curry Fish Head
Golden Mile Food Centre
505 Beach Road
#B1-01/07
S199583

Hai Tang Lor Mee

2010-06-06T13:15:00.006+08:00

I have read about this lor mee since 2 years ago but when I was there last year, Mei Chin Market and Food Centre was closed for renovation. After it had re-opened, I was hesitant to go down as I heard that many of the old stalls were no longer around. Until recently when I stumbled upon a thread on Hardwarezone forums did I remember that I have not tried Hai Tang Lor Mee yet.

When I went there this morning, the queue was relatively short and the service was fast, so I got my lor mee within five minutes. Hai Tang lor mee comes in 3 sizes: $2.20 for small, $2.50 for medium and $3 for large. I ordered the $3 lor mee and it came in such a huge serving with plenty of ingredients that I could hardly finish.

Just right in terms of thickness, the special gravy is delightfully savory and sweet with the subtle fragrance of spices. The outstanding lor mee comes with a generous variety of ingredients ranging from braised meat, fish nuggets, chicken, you tiao, ngor hiang, fish cake and braised egg.

Definitely comparable with famous lor mee like Lorong Ah Soo, Tiong Bahru etc, Hai Tang lor mee is not only delicious but value for money. It is certainly worthwhile making a trip down to Mei Chin Food Centre just to try this lor mee.

7.5/10

Hai Tang Lor Mee
Mei Chin Market and Food Centre
159 Mei Chin Road #02-14
Singapore 140159

Xin Heng Feng Minced Meat Noodle

2010-05-29T06:01:00.000+08:00

The first thing that caught my attention about this noodle stall in Whampoa Food Centre is that it has two counters taking orders simultaneously, similar to the express service in fastfood restaurants eg Mac Donalds. Thus even though the queue appeared long, I was served in a relatively short while.

The second thing that caught my attention about Xin Heng Feng is the amazing prices of its noodles. A bowl of minced meat noodle which costs only $2.20, comes with two Teochew dumplings, two meatballs, minced meat and sliced jean meat. Despite its affordable price, there is absolutely no compromise in the quality of the noodles. Well-cooked with a slightly springy consistency, the noodles go very well with the special sauce that is savory and spicy.

Because of its outstanding culinary standard and its value for money, Xin Heng Feng noodles are very popular among the residents in Whampoa and are usually sold out by lunch time. Do remember to try it when you visit Whampoa Market for breakfast.

7.5/10

Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan
Blk 91 Whampoa Drive #01-15
Whampoa Drive Food Centre

132 Mini Steamboat

2010-05-22T18:35:00.003+08:00

Of the many mini steamboats and hotpots that I have tried and blogged about in Singapore, the one I like most is 132 Mini Steamboat at Old Airport Road Food Centre, simply because of its irresistable herbal soup.

132 comes with a variety of mini steamboat sets ranging from chicken to pork, mutton, beef, prawn and fish, priced at only $5 inclusive of rice. Choose to enjoy your steamboat with one of the following soup bases: normal, spicy, tom yam or herbal.

My favorite combination is chicken steamboat set with herbal soup base. The chicken steamboat set comes with a generous serving of fresh sliced chicken with vegetables, meatballs, crabmeat, hotdog, vermicelli and egg. Served piping hot in a mini hotpot, the mouthwatering soup is concentrated with the distinctive aroma of ginseng and traditional herbs. Enjoy the cooked dishes by dipping them into the sweet and sour chilli sauce.

Regardless of whether you are a steamboat fan or not, $5 is certainly a worthwhile price to pay for a sumptuous mini steamboat dinner that must not be missed.

7.5/10

132 Mini Steamboat
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road
#01-132
S390051

Market Street Nasi Lemak

2010-05-16T13:40:00.006+08:00

Providing strong competition against the famous Golden Shoe Nasi Lemak at Golden Shoe Food Centre, Market Street Nasi Lemak has delicious nasi lemak sets at incredible prices.

For only $2.50, you get a plate of nasi lemak with a fried chicken drumstick, a piece of fish fillet, a fried fish and a serving of ikan bilis. Wow, that is almost everything I would have asked for in a plate of nasi lemak. In spite of its value of money, the flavorful rice is exceptionally tasty with the satisfying aroma of coconut milk and pandan leaf.

Compared with Golden Shoe Nasi Lemak, the spread of dishes at Market Street Nasi Lemak is certainly more outstanding. However Golden Shoe Nasi Lemak impresses with its fried chicken drumstick which is more fleshy and juicy. Come down to Golden Shoe Food Centre and try both to judge for yourself.

7.5/10

Market Street Nasi Lemak
Golden Shoe Carpark
50 Market Street #02-24
Singapore 048940

Wang Wang Crispy Curry Puff

2010-05-08T09:28:00.000+08:00

I am not a fan of curry puff but when I was still hungry after having dinner at Old Airport Road Food Centre last weekend, I decided to try Wang Wang crispy curry puff.

Priced at $1.10 each, I was immediately impressed when I took my first bite of the curry puff. Stuffed with pieces of tasty potato and fleshy curry chicken, the mouthwatering filling is warm and spicy, like it is fresh from the oven. The fragrant crust is sufficiently thick and crispy.

As I have not tasted many curry puffs before, I hesitate to call Wang Wang Crispy Curry Puff the best in Singapore. Nevertheless it has left me such a favorable impression that I will certainly return for more.

7.5/10

Wang Wang Crispy Curry Puff
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road
#01-126
Closed on Mondays

People's Park Hakka Yong Tau Fu

2010-05-01T14:11:00.007+08:00

Walking along the streets of Jalan Besar famous for its curry rice, I stumbled upon this stall with an impressive array of exotic Hakka yong tau fu on display. Equally exorbitant are its prices which range from 40 cents to $1 for each piece of yong tau fu and from $1 to $3.50 for a piece of cuttlefish.

I ordered a bowl of bee hoon with 5 pieces of yong tau fu, a piece of cuttlefish and laksa gravy which cost $6.50 in total. Concentrated with the sinful thickness of coconut milk, the laksa gravy is fragrant and flavorful. I was very impressed with the exquisite Hakka yong tau fu I ordered eg meat patty stuffed with Shiitake mushroom, traditional ngor hiang, minced meat and fish cakes with salted fish etc.

Although more pricey than other yong tau fu, People's Park Hakka yong tau fu is certainly worthwhile paying for its innovativeness. Come down to try it for yourself and be convinced.

7.5/10

People's Park Hakka Yong Tau Fu
290 Jalan Besar
Singapore 208953

Western Barbeque Chicken Chop

2010-04-25T07:17:00.003+08:00

The recent opening of Dakota MRT station of the Circle Line has greatly increased the accessibility of Old Airport Road Food Centre which is well-known for many delicious food eg fried kway teow, fried Hokkien mee, Western food, lor mee, wanton mee and cze char, just to name a few.

When I was there for dinner last night, I decided to try this stall named Western Barbeque which features several awards from Makansutra, Channel U and I Weekly etc. I ordered the chicken chop which costs $5 and comes with French fries, bread and baked beans. Fabulously grilled with a crispy charred outer layer, the chicken chop is remarkably tender and fleshy and tastes great even without any sauce.

No special flavors like teriyaki or black pepper, no side dishes like corn or coleslaw, Western Barbeque has the traditional old style chicken chop which impresses with its simplicity. If you crave to sink your teeth into a thick and fleshy piece of chicken chop, come down to try Western Barbeque today.

7.5/10

Western Barbeque
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road #01-53

Swee Ting Seafood Hor Fun

2010-04-15T20:50:00.008+08:00

Hidden inside Maxwell Food Centre is a stall named Swee Ting which has seafood hor fun with the best wok hei that I have tasted. While most seafood hor fun costs only $3 or $3.50, Swee Ting's costs $4 but don't be tricked, what you get is worth more what you pay for.

Topped with every ingredient you can ever think of, ranging from prawns, sotong, lean meat, sliced fish, fish cake to mussel, pig intestine and chicken liver, a $4 plate of seafood hor fun comes in such a generous portion that even though I was hungry, could not finish all of it. Every piece of hor fun is marvellously fried with a irresistable wok hei flavour and coated with savory seafood gravy. What impressed me most was in spite of the excellent hor fun, the ingredients are all remarkably fresh and tasty.

Certainly praiseworthy for its outstanding culinary standards, Swee Ting seafood hor fun is undoubtedly one of the best that I have tasted in Singapore. I will definitely return to try its fried hokkien mee someday.

8.5/10

Swee Ting
#01-51 Maxwell Food Centre
Maxwell Road
Closed on Tuesdays

International Food Stall Nasi Lemak

2010-04-06T21:41:00.010+08:00

Over the years, despite fierce competition from Mizzy's Corner and Sri Sujana, International Food Stall still retains its title of the most famous nasi lemak in Changi Village with the longest queue.

Similarly priced as its competitors, a plate of International nasi lemak which costs $3, comes with ikan bilis, fried egg and fried chicken wing. Sufficiently fragrant with the aroma of coconut milk, the flavorful rice goes very well with the sweet sambal chilli. The highlight of the nasi lemak is the fried chicken wing that is crispy and juicy.

Apart from their names, I honestly can't tell the difference between the three nasi lemak in Changi. Judging by the longer queue, there must be something special about International Food Stall's nasi lemak that distinguishes it from the other two and keeps its fans coming back for more. Perhaps readers who know can share it with me.

7/10

International Food Stall Nasi Lemak
Changi Village Hawker Centre
Blk 2 Changi Village Rd #01-57

Fu Kee Cartilage Ramen

2010-03-30T21:23:00.008+08:00

Having tried several disappointing ramen from food centres and food courts, I finally found a praiseworthy ramen from Fu Kee at Kovan Food Centre.

I ordered the cartilage ramen which costs $4. Topped with juicy straw mushrooms and fleshy and tender pieces of well-marinated braised cartilage meat, the special ramen is indeed value-for-money. Concentrated with the delightful sweetness of pork ribs and carrot, the mouthwatering soup complements the smooth ramen really well.

One of the few ramen that leaves me wanting to return for more, Fu Kee also has delicious mutton soup which I will definitely try someday.

7.5/10

Fu Kee Ramen
Kovan Food Centre
Blk 209 Hougang St 21

Bishan 504 Boneless Chicken Rice

2010-03-19T23:00:00.005+08:00

With stalls selling chicken rice for as cheap as $1.80 sprouting all across Singapore, it is no wonder why chicken rice sellers nowadays have to think of all kinds of gimmicks to woo their customers. Located in the S-11 coffee shop directly across Junction 8 in Bishan, this stall gives away free soup of the day with every purchase of chicken rice.

For $3.30, you get a bowl of rice, a satisfactory plate of chicken and a large bowl of chicken feet with groundnut soup. Fragrant and flavorful, the golden grains of rice are robust in consistency and go very well with the spicy chilli sauce. The steamed white chicken is fresh and tender and served with crispy beansprouts. The chicken feet with groundnut soup which is sweet and savory, certainly helps to quench one's thirst at the end of the sumptuous meal.

Although paler in comparison with the expensive chicken rice from the famous Five Star and Boon Tong Kee, Bishan 504 has affordable chicken rice that is certainly more delicious than that from many neighborhood stalls.

7/10

Bishan 504 Boneless Chicken Rice
Blk 504 Bishan Street 11
S-11 Coffee Shop
#01-444 S(570504)

Liang Seah Street Prawn Mee

2010-03-10T22:42:00.009+08:00

At Golden Shoe Food Centre where the famous nasi lemak and lor mee cost only $2, I was surprised to find out that a bowl of Liang Seah Street pork rib prawn mee costs $5. What made me even more skeptical was that the stall also sells laksa and lor mee, which makes me wonder if the prawn mee is indeed so delicious.

On a Thursday evening when the nasi lemak is sold out and the lor mee stall is closed, I finally decided to try the $5 pork rib prawn mee and it was certainly worth the price.

What I liked most about Liang Seah Street prawn mee is the special soup that is highly concentrated with the desirable sweetness of prawn and pork rib. Served with halved medium prawns, sliced small prawns and pork ribs, the noodles come in a generous portion that is definitely satisfactory for dinner.

Whether you are working in the CBD or not, do come down to Golden Shoe Food Centre and try Liang Seah Street prawn mee as it is open even after office hours.

7/10

Liang Seah Street Prawn Mee
Golden Shoe Food Centre
50 Market Street
S(048940)

Loy Kee Chicken Rice

2010-02-28T22:45:00.007+08:00

Located in Whampoa Block 91 food centre which is well-known for its fish head steamboat, handmade noodles, mee siam etc, Loy Kee is one of the famous chicken rice in Singapore.

A chicken rice set for one person costs $4 and comes with a plate of steamed chicken, a bowl of rice and soup. Lightly coated with a layer of chicken essence and pandan fragrance, the rice is sufficiently tasty but not overly greasy or sticky. The steamed chicken is fresh and tender and goes very well with the unique chilli sauce that is salty and sour. I especially enjoyed the juicy preserved pickles that came with the chicken, adding a desirable tinge of sweetness to the dish.

Besides delicious chicken rice, Loy Kee also has seafood steamboat. Bring your family down to Whampoa and try it for dinner today.

7/10

Loy Kee Chicken Rice & Porridge
Whampoa Drive Food Centre
Blk 91 Whampoa Drive
#01-49/50

New World Mutton Soup

2010-02-21T16:59:00.004+08:00

Located on the second storey of Jalan Berseh Food Centre, this must be the most potent mutton soup that I have ever tasted.

Very reasonably priced at $3.20 (add $0.50 for a bowl of rice), New World mutton soup is concentrated with the desirable sweetness of mutton and the distinctive bitterness of herbs and spices, certainly appealing to die-hard mutton soup fans but probably not for the faint-hearted. The numerous pieces of mutton are indeed fleshy and tasty.

If you are looking for a mutton soup that is mind-blowing, New World mutton soup is the one for you. Come down to Jalan Berseh and be overwhelmed.

7/10

New World Mutton Soup
Jalan Berseh Cooked Food Centre
Jalan Berseh #02-57
Singapore 209037

Ah Tat Kitchen Mini Hotpot

2010-02-15T10:13:00.009+08:00

After Marina Square and Marine Parade, my new-found fascination with mini steamboat led me to Chinatown where I discovered Ah Tat Kitchen at Smith Street Food Centre. Here I found the cheapest mini hotpot set meals (inclusive of rice at $3.80) for chicken or pork and $4.20 for seafood.

What impressed me most about Ah Tat Kitchen mini hotpot is the superior quality of the soup base. With a subtle fragrance of ginseng, the mouthwatering soup is irresistably flavorful that you can have it on its own. The chicken mini hotpot set comes with slices of chicken, hotdog, beancurd, mushrooms and vegetables.

If you are a fan of mini steamboat like me, do come down to Smith Street Food Centre to try Ah Tat Kitchen mini hotpot today.

7.5/10

Ah Tat Kitchen
Smith Street Food Centre
#02-054
335 Smith Street Singapore 050335

Update 1/8/2010 - This stall has closed down.

Ji Xiang Ang Ku Kueh

2010-02-06T22:59:00.007+08:00

Ang ku kueh, literally translated as red tortoise cake in Hokkien, is a Chinese pastry of steamed rice flour filled with green bean paste or roasted peanut. When I was at Everton Park recently to buy pineapple tarts for Chinese New Year, I came across Ji Xiang Confectionery which I read on the Internet has one of the best ang ku kueh in Singapore.

With a fabulous variety of ang ku kueh ranging from sweet bean paste to savory bean paste, peanut, corn, coconut, sesame and durian, I decided to try the traditional sweet bean paste ang ku kueh which costs $0.60. The special rice flour skin is amazingly smooth and chewy yet does not stick onto the teeth at all. Just right in terms of sweetness, the fragrant bean paste filling is delightfully soft and melts gently in the mouth.

Although I am not a fan of ang ku kueh, I was certainly impressed by that from Ji Xiang Confectionery. Do also try its highly recommended pineapple tarts which make an excellent gift for Chinese New Year.

7.5/10

Ji Xiang Confectionery
Blk 1 Everton Park
#01-33
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

Katong (Peter) Fried Kway Teow

2010-01-29T21:43:00.006+08:00

Formerly located at Jago Close along East Coast Road, Katong (Peter) Fried Kway Teow has shifted to Tanjong Pagar Food Centre, bringing competition to the already famous Tanjong Pagar Fried Kway Teow there.

I ordered the $3 plate of fried kway teow which is served on a banana leaf with a generous variety of ingredients such as prawns, cockles, fish cake and Taiwan sausage. Well-fried with a subtle charred flavour, the tasty kway teow is savory and fragrant, not overly wet or greasy.

Comparing the two fried kway teow, Katong (Peter)'s is the salty type whereas Tanjong Pagar's is the sweeter type. Also Katong (Peter) uses the normal thick kway teow whereas Tanjong Pagar uses thin kway teow. Come down and try both to decide which one you like better but be prepared to queue with the lunch time crowd.

7/10

Katong (Peter) Fried Kway Teow
Blk 6
Tanjong Pagar Plaza
#02-14
Singapore 081006

Marine Parade Ginseng Mini Steamboat

2010-01-24T22:13:00.009+08:00

Located in the recently renovated G8 Food Court opposite Parkway Parade Shopping Centre, this new stall has 6 different mini steamboat sets (chicken, pork, mutton, beef, prawn and fish) priced at only $5.50 each ($6 with a bowl of rice). You get to choose from 3 types of soup bases (chicken, tom yam or spicy hot).

My favorite is the chicken mini steamboat set which comes with a plate of lean tender chicken and a plate of miscellaneous ingredients eg fishball, prawn ball, crabmeat, hotdog, beancurd, egg, vermicelli, vegetables etc. The chicken soup is clear and flavorful with a subtle tinge of ginseng.

Compared with Old Hong Kong Mini Steamboat at Marine Square Food Court, the ginseng chicken soup from Marine Parade Mini Steamboat seems to be less impressive but it easily makes up for the deficit with its fantastic sambal chilli sauce which goes so well with the fresh ingredients. Bring your family down to Marine Parade and try it for yourself today.

7.5/10

Marine Parade Ginseng Mini Steamboat
G8 Food Court
5 Marine Parade Central

House Of Tau Sar Piah

2010-01-17T20:39:00.016+08:00

Having featured Loong Fatt as the most well-known tau sar piah in Singapore, I feel compelled to blog about House Of Tau Sar Piah in Balestier because I like the tau sar piah from the latter better.

As taste is often subjective, I shall first share some objective differences between the two.
1. Loong Fatt's tau sar piah costs $0.70 whereas House's costs $0.50 (sweet) or $0.60 (salty).
2. Loong Fatt is closed on Sundays but House is open.
3. Loong Fatt's tau sar piah is non-vegetarian whereas House's is made using pure vegetable oil hence suitable for vegetarians.

Now I shall share the subjective differences. Served in a smaller portion than Loong Fatt's, House's tau sar piah is just sufficient for a light snack. The fragrant crust is less thick and more robust and goes very well with the red bean filling which is soft and flavorful.

Just as I prefer Leung Sang's egg tarts to the famous Tong Heng's, I feel that House's tau sar piah tastes much better than Loong Fatt's. Come down to Balestier and try both to decide for yourself.

7.5/10

House Of Tau Sar Piah
529 Balestier Road

Old Hong Kong Seafood Mini Steamboat

2010-01-10T08:48:00.011+08:00

Used to be well-known for its signature trolley noodle trolley noodle, Old Hong Kong at Marina Square Food Court now has mini steamboat sets at very affordable prices.

For only $6.80 inclusive of rice, you get to choose one of the following sets ie seafood, chicken, beef or pork with either ginseng chicken or tom yam soup.

When I was there last week, I decided to try the seafood mini steamboat with ginseng chicken soup. The first thing that impressed me was the flavorful soup filled with the irresistable sweetness of chicken and the distinctive fragrance of ginseng. The seafood set comes with fresh prawns, cuttlefish, fishballs, meatballs, hotdog, crabmeat, mushroom and a variety of vegetables.

If you are a fan of steamboat but not keen to indulge in the pricey buffet type, Old Hong Kong Mini Steamboat is just the ideal choice for you. Plus you get to dine in an air-conditioned restaurant which makes it even more value-for-money. When I returned a few days later to try the chicken mini steamboat, I must admit that it is just as fantastic.

7.5/10

Old Hong Kong Seafood Mini Steamboat
Marina Food Loft
Level 4
Marina Square Shopping Centre

Update 1/8/2010 - This stall has closed down.

Whampoa Prawn Noodle

2010-01-02T07:54:00.000+08:00

Closed on Sundays and often sold out before lunch on the other days, I finally managed to try Whampoa Prawn Noodle when I was there for breakfast last Friday.

I ordered a bowl of $3 prawn noodle which is served with sliced prawns and sliced lean meat. Topped with fried spring onion and pork lard, the delicious soup is irresistably savory and fragrant with a distinctive traditional flavour.

No big prawns, pork ribs or other fanciful gimmicks, Whampoa prawn noodle is the typical "old school" style prawn mee that will certainly touch your heart.

7.5/10

Whampoa Prawn Noodle
Blk 91 Whampoa Dr #01-39
Closed on Sundays

Yeap Seng Egg Tart

2009-12-27T20:20:00.000+08:00

When I was having my favorite ban mian at Whampoa Market this morning, I stumbled upon this stall named Yeap Seng Handmade Pau Tim which has a variety of pastries and dim sum at very affordable prices.

Although priced at only $0.70, I feel that Yeap Seng's egg tart tastes better than the famous $1.30 egg tart from Tong Heng in Chinatown. Filled with thick butter fragrance, the flavorful crust goes very well with the mouthwatering egg custard that is just of the right sweetness.

Besides egg tart, Yeap Seng also has carrot cake, char siew bao, fried ngor hiang, curry puff etc. If you are a pastry lover, come down to Whampoa and try it for yourself.

7.5/10

Yeap Seng Handmade Pau Tim
Blk 91 Whampoa Dr #01-33

Gourmet Claypot Herbal Chicken

2009-12-22T23:04:00.005+08:00

With a wide variety of claypot dishes ranging from herbal chicken to claypot rice, bak kut teh, curry chicken and claypot noodle, Gourmet Claypot at Compass Point Food Court has one of the best claypot herbal chicken that I have ever tried.

Reasonably priced at $5 with additional $0.50 for a bowl of plain rice, the delicious herbal soup comes with several pieces of fresh and tender chicken. Served piping hot in a claypot, the mouthwatering soup is rich with the authentic flavours of Chinese herbs such as angelica root, codonopsis root and wolfberries etc. Another plus point is the special chilli sauce which goes very well with the tasty chicken.

If you have the craving for traditional homemade herbal chicken soup, you must come down to Sengkang and try Gourmet Claypot herbal chicken today.

7.5/10

Gourmet Claypot
Compass Point Shopping Centre
Kopitiam Food Court
Level 4
1 Sengkang Square
Singapore 545078

Kim Seng Live Prawn Noodle

2009-12-12T22:37:00.008+08:00

Formerly known as Feng Yun Live Prawn Noodle when it was located at Kim Seng Plaza, it has shifted to Marina Square Food Court and is now known as Kim Seng Live Prawn Noodle.

Served at a promotional price of $3.90, the prawn noodle comes with two live tiger prawns, shredded braised meat and fish cake. You can choose to have either the traditional prawn soup or the nutritious herbal soup. Having tried both, I prefer the nutritious herbal soup which is exceptionally savory and fragrant. The live tiger prawns are indeed fresh and sweet.

Whether you are a fan of prawn noodle or herbal soup, come down to Marina Square and try this special herbal prawn noodle from Kim Seng today.

7.5/10

Kim Seng Live Prawn Noodle
Marina Food Loft
Level 4
Marina Square Shopping Centre

Loong Fatt Tau Sar Piah

2009-12-01T22:24:00.005+08:00

Search for "Balestier" and "tau sar piah" on Google and the name Loong Fatt comes out in most hits, ahead of all its other competitors along Balestier Road.

Closed on Sundays, I finally had the chance to savour the famous Loong Fatt tau sar piah when I went there on a Friday morning. Although slightly more expensively priced at 70 cents instead of 50 or 60 cents from its other competitors, the tau sar piah from Loong Fatt is considerably larger in size. Served fresh from the oven, the special crust is soft and warm with a distinctive butter fragrance. The thick red bean filling is irresistably delicious with the right balance of sweet and salty flavours.

Having my Loong Fatt tau sar piah with a cup of hot green tea was a wonderful experience. Come down to Balestier and try it for yourself.

7.5/10

Loong Fatt Eating House & Confectionary
639 Balestier Road
Closed on Sundays

Ah Yee's Soon Kueh

2009-11-27T07:21:00.000+08:00

Located at the basement of Dunman Food Centre, Ah Yee's Soon Kueh has one of the best soon kueh (steamed Chinese dumpling with rice flour skin and chopped turnip filling) in Singapore.

Handmade on the spot and served piping hot, Ah Yee's soon kueh are undoubtedly fresh and tasty. Reasonably priced at 80 cents per piece, I was amazed by the generous variety and superior quality of the ingredients which ranged from crunchy turnip strips to mushroom, carrot and fragrant dried shrimps.

Although I am not a fan of soon kueh, I was certainly impressed by Ah Yee's and would definitely return for more.

7.5/10

Ah Yee's Soon Kueh
Dunman Food Centre
Blk 271 Onan Road
#01-05

Ocean Economic Rice

2009-11-18T22:21:00.009+08:00

When I was having dinner with my friends at the Toa Payoh branch of Mellben Seafood some weeks ago, I noticed a long queue in front of this economic rice stall named Ocean Curry Fishhead. Curious to find out what is so special about this economic rice, I returned on another day to try it for myself.

I ordered a plate of rice with curry vegetables, curry chicken and fried omelette which costs $3.30. Richly scented with a distinctive lemon grass fragrance, the curry gravy is spicy and savory. I was most impressed with the fried omelette which came with fresh shrimps.

Yet to try its other signature dishes such as curry fishhead, sambal prawn, mutton rendang, sambal cockles, oyster sotong etc, I would certainly bring my family down to Ocean Curry Fishhead for dinner soon.

7/10

Ocean Curry Fishhead
Blk 212 Toa Payoh Lorong 8

Tan Soon Mui Soya Beancurd

2009-11-13T06:07:00.000+08:00

At only 50 cents a bowl, Tan Soon Mui soya beancurd at Serangoon Gardens Food Centre must be the cheapest in Singapore. Unless you can still find those soya beancurd in some primary school canteens, which if I remembered correctly, used to cost only 20 cents.

Served in a porcelain bowl, the soya beancurd is soft and smooth with a traditional flavour.

Although it says offer on its signboard, I have not seen a price increase, at least for the past 2 years. If you patronise Serangoon Garden Food Centre for dinner, do complete your meal with a bowl of sweet soya beancurd from Tan Soon Mui.

7/10

Tan Soon Mui Soya Beancurd
Serangoon Garden Food Centre
49A Serangoon Garden Way
Stall 41

Ishi Mura House Special Ramen

2009-11-07T22:21:00.013+08:00

This Japanese-themed foodcourt on the level 3 extension of Northpoint Shopping Centre looks more like a restaurant on the outside. Which is why even though I have been working in Yishun, I never knew that Ishi Mura is a foodcourt until recently.

An interesting concept of food stalls with an impressive variety of delicious Japanese food ranging from ramen to baked rice and omelette rice, pizza and pasta, okonomiyaki, bento and burger, sushi and sashimi etc, I decided to have the house special ramen after much hesitation.

Reasonably priced at $6.90, the house special ramen comes with a prawn, two scallops, a piece of char siew (braised meat) and half a braised egg. Filled with delightful seafood essence and a slight milky tinge, the special soup is sweet and flavorful and goes very well with the springy ramen. The authentic homemade chilli paste is remarkably spicy and savory. The fresh scallops and prawn are also juicy and tasty.

Delicious yet affordably priced, Ishi Mura ramen will certainly give Ajisen ramen a run for its money.

7.5/10

Ishi Mura (Northpoint)
Northpoint Shopping Centre
930 Yishun Avenue 2
#03-47/50

Blanco Prawn Noodle House

2009-10-30T17:44:00.002+08:00

When I passed by Jalan Kayu last weekend, I was delighted to see a new addition to its stretch of delicious eating places - Blanco Prawn Noodle House.

I ordered the $5 bowl of pork rib prawn mee which comes with 4 pieces of pork ribs and 3 pieces of halved prawns. What immediately impressed me was how the thick and mouthwatering soup, which was concentrated with the flavours of prawn and pork rib, complemented the noodles so well. The halved prawns are sweet and the pork ribs are fleshy and tasty.

Though similar in names, I do not know if Blanco Prawn Noodle House is related to the famous Blanco Court Prawn Noodle at Beach Road. Nevertheless its pork rib prawn mee is certainly fantastic enough to keep me coming back to Jalan Kayu for more.

7.5/10

Blanco Prawn Noodle House
Jalan Kayu
Closed on Tuesdays

Leung Sang Egg Tart

2009-10-25T06:48:00.000+08:00

Located in the heart of Chinatown, the delicious egg tarts from Leung Sang Hong Kong Pastries go for only $0.70 instead of the usual $0.90 after 6pm. Compared with the pricey $1.30 egg tarts from the famous Tong Heng Confectionery across the road, one may think that the Leung Sang egg tarts are inferior in quality but I beg to differ. After trying the egg tarts from both Leung Sang and Tong Heng on several occasions, I still feel that Leung Sang's egg tarts taste much better.

The special crust of Leung Sang's egg tart is thick and crispy and exudes a delightful butter fragrance with every bite. The flavorful egg custard is soft and smooth and just right in terms of sweetness.

An egg tart from Leung Sang, together with a cup of hot Lipton tea, makes the ideal afternoon tea that I would crave for. Come down and try it for yourself if you haven't.

8/10

Leung Sang Hong Kong Pastries
18 Sago Street

Bishan Malacca Claypot Chicken Mee Sua

2009-10-17T07:17:00.000+08:00

While searching for something different to try for dinner at Bishan, I found this stall located above Bishan interchange which sells claypot mee sua (fine vermicelli).

I ordered a bowl of claypot chicken mee sua which costs $4. Served bubbling hot in a claypot, the delicate mee sua is coated with thick soya sauce gravy that is delightfully sweet and savory. The fleshy chunks of chicken are tender and well-marinated and go very well with the spicy chilli sauce with a sourish tinge.

If you are a fan of claypot braised chicken, Bishan Malacca claypot chicken mee sua is something new and delicious that you wouldn't want to miss.

7/10

Bishan Malacca Claypot Chicken Mee Sua
Bishan Bus Interchange Food Court
Level 2
514 Bishan Street 13

Queensway Famous Curry Chicken

2009-10-09T19:55:00.000+08:00

When I was at Queensway Shopping Centre a few months ago, I couldn't help being attracted to the irresistable aroma of Nyonya curry which came from this stall on the ground floor. Named Queensway Famous Curry Chicken, this stall has both curry chicken and Katong laksa.

I ordered a bowl of curry chicken and a plate of plain rice which cost only $3. Concentrated with the delightful fragrance of coconut milk, the exceptionally thick gravy is remarkably sweet and spicy, reminiscent of the delicious homemade curry which I used to savour when I was a kid. Although so good that you can have it on its own, the mouthwatering curry comes with 3 pieces of chicken and 2 pieces of potato.

During my subsequent visits there, Queensway Famous Curry Chicken has never failed to consistently impress me as one of the best in Singapore. Besides being famous for soccer jerseys and running shoes, Queensway Shopping Centre has a famous curry chicken which indeed lives up to its name.

8/10

Queensway Famous Curry Chicken
Queensway Shopping Centre
Level 1
1 Queensway
Singapore 149053

Wow Wow West Chicken Chop

2009-10-02T13:34:00.001+08:00

Behind this Western food stall in ABC Brickworks Food Centre is a heartwarming story of how the owner, who spent part of his childhood in Boys' Town, decided to give ex-convicts a second chance by hiring them to run his stall. However this is not the reason why Wow Wow West is so popular. Instead it is well-known for its Western food that is not only very delicious but comes in super generous portions.

I ordered the chicken chop which costs $5. Although it was a crowded Friday evening, the service was efficient and I was served within 15 minutes of ordering. Indeed living up to its reputation, the generous portion of chicken chop is the largest that I have seen so far. Perfectly grilled with a delightful charred aroma, the tender chicken chop is topped with savory black pepper sauce that accentuates its distinctive flavour. The complementary coleslaw is also plentiful and tasty.

Enough said, the chicken chop is one of the best that I have tasted in Singapore. While a heartwarming story may entice customers to try the food, it is the outstanding culinary standard that will keep them coming back for more. Wow Wow West has both.

8/10

Wow Wow West
ABC Brickworks Food Centre
#01-133
Closed on Sundays

Ajisen Ramen Hokkaido Seafood Ramen Lunch Special

2009-09-27T07:10:00.000+08:00

I was never a fan of ramen (Japanese handmade noodle) because I used to think that ramen tastes the same as instant noodle. Only after my friend brought me to Ajisen Ramen for lunch did I realise my misconception. From then on, I became a big fan of Ajisen's $10.90 ramen lunch special which comes with a bowl of ramen, a plate of side dish and a drink ($12.83 with service charge and GST).

My favorite lunch special combination is the Hokkaido seafood ramen and white fish with hot green tea.

Topped with scallop, sotong and crabmeat slices, the Hokkaido seafood ramen is popular for its special soup base that is slightly milky in consistency and filled with the irresistable essence of seafood. The tasty soup goes very well with the ramen which has a smooth and flour-like texture. I like to add dried chilli flakes because they make the soup spicy yet do not alter its authentic flavour.

The white fish, which is actually fried crispy nuggets stuffed with fresh fish meat, tastes great with the savory chilli sauce. The hot green tea helps to quench every bit of thirst at the end of the sumptuous meal.

For an affordable yet satisfying ramen set lunch, I strongly recommend Ajisen Ramen. With 17 outlets scattered all over the island, there is almost certainly one that is near to you. Come down and try it for yourself today.

7.5/10

Ajisen Ramen
http://www.ajisen.com.sg/contact.htm

Mohamed Sultan Road Cheng Tng

2009-09-23T18:50:00.004+08:00

The standard of a cheng tng depends on two things: the flavour of the soup and the variety of the ingredients. The best cheng tng that I have tasted in Singapore so far is Ye Lai Xiang at Bedok Corner Food Centre. Coming close in second place would be Mohamed Sultan Road cheng tng at Zion Riverside Food Centre.

A bowl of cold cheng tng which costs $1.50 comes with a wide range of ingredients eg dried longan, fresh longan, lychee, gingko nut, sweet potato and sago seed. Delightfully sweet and highly addictive, the refreshing soup has a special flavour that distinguishes it from other cheng tng.

If you frequent Zion Riverside Food Centre for lunch or dinner, do remember to try Mohamed Sultan Road cheng tng if you haven't.

7.5/10

Mohamed Sultan Road Hot & Cold Cheng Tng
Zion Riverside Food Centre
No 32

Western Chow Hainanese Beef Stew

2009-09-16T19:33:00.001+08:00

After trying the delicious beef stew from Jacob's Cafe, I decided to embark on a journey to try the other beef stews in Singapore. My next stop is Western Chow at Bishan Central.

A plate of Hainanese beef stew, which costs only $6.50, comes in a generous portion that is certainly worthwhile for its price. Served with carrot and potato, I was delighted to find huge chunks of beef inside the stew. Creamy and peppery, the savory stew goes very well with the rice. While extremely tenderised, the beef seems to have lost its natural beefy flavour which is something very essential in a dish like beef stew.

Although Western Chow's Hainanese beef stew is cheaper and comes in a larger portion, I still prefer the beef stew from Jacob's Cafe. Nevertheless if you crave for beef stew but do not wish to travel all the way down to Changi Village, Western Chow at Bishan Central is certainly worth trying.

7/10

Western Chow
Blk 504 Bishan Street 11
S-11 Coffee Shop
#01-444 S(570504)

Million Fishball Noodle

2009-09-09T18:00:00.000+08:00

I vaguely recalled having this fishball noodle a few years ago but it did not leave a lasting impression. Nevertheless when I was at Bishan Central for dinner last week, I decided to try Million fishball noodle for a second time.

I ordered a bowl of fishball dry mee pok which costs $3. Upon taking my first bite, I was impressed with the springy consistency of the dry mee pok and how well it blended with the spicy chilli sauce. It was a long time since I last had mee pok so well-cooked that it tasted so springy. With a distinctive fishy aroma, the tasty fishballs are reasonably bouncy in consistency and go very well with the noodles.

Even though I am not a fan of fishball noodle, I thoroughly enjoyed Million fishball dry mee pok. Come down to Bishan and try it for yourself today.

7.5/10

Million Fishball Noodle
Kim San Leng Food Centre
Blk 511 Bishan St 13 #01-522

Rochor Original Soya Beancurd

2009-09-03T21:58:00.000+08:00

Of the many soya bean stalls and franchises in Singapore eg Selegie, Mr Bean, Jollibean etc, my vote for the best soya beancurd still goes to Rochor original soya beancurd.

Located opposite Peace Centre in Selegie, a bowl of Rochor original soya beancurd costs only $1. Silky smooth in texture, the flavorful beancurd disintegrates effortlessly with every bite, exuding a distinctive soya bean aroma that is simply irresistable.

Rochor original soya beancurd is definitely outstanding for its extraordinary smoothness and amazing soya bean fragrance. After trying it, you wouldn't want to settle for other soya beancurd anymore.

8/10

Rochor Original Beancurd
2 Short Street

Ming Ji Clam Prawn Mee

2009-08-28T05:09:00.001+08:00

While most traditional prawn noodles come with prawn, pork rib and pig's tail, I was excited to find a prawn noodle at Sembawang Hill Food Centre which comes with clam.

A bowl of Ming Ji clam prawn mee which costs $3 comes with several slices of fresh clams and halved prawns. Although sprinkled with fragrant pork lard, the soup could have been thicker and more flavorful. Nevertheless I enjoyed the juicy clams.

I must agree that Ming Ji clam prawn mee is certainly value for money in terms of its ingredients. If you have not tried prawn noodle with clam, come down to Sembawang Hill Food Centre and try it for yourself.

7/10

Ming Ji Clam Prawn Mee
Sembawang Hill Food Centre
590 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574419

Yong He Taiwan Beef Noodle

2009-08-23T19:27:00.000+08:00

Located at Geylang Lorong 27A, Yong He Eating House is famous for its dou jiang (soya bean milk) and you tiao (chinese fried breadstick). Today I decided to try its Taiwan beef noodle instead.

A bowl of Taiwan beef noodle which costs $4, comes with handmade noodle (la mian) served with generous chunks of beef. When I saw the reddish colour of the soup, I was immediately reminded of the super spicy la mian from Crystal Jade but I was wrong. The chilli-flavoured soup of Yong He Taiwan beef noodle is fortunately less spicy and more pleasing to my taste buds. I was impressed by the remarkable tenderness of the tasty beef chunks.

If you have the craving for delicious beef la mian at coffeeshop prices, do come down to Yong He and try its Taiwan beef noodle today.

7/10

Yong He Eating House
517 Geylang Road
(Near Geylang Lor 27A)

Jason Penang Pork Rib Prawn Noodle

2009-08-20T22:14:00.001+08:00

I only found out recently that ABC Brickworks Food Centre at Bukit Merah has plenty of delicious food ranging from fried hokkien mee, handmade fishball noodle, top grade char siew, Western food etc. If Hong Lim Food Centre is known as a food paradise, then I feel that ABC Brickworks Food Centre deserves the same title.

When I was there for dinner last weekend, I decided to try the Penang pork rib prawn noodle from Jason Penang Cuisine. Certainly value for money, a bowl of Penang pork rib prawn noodle which costs $4 comes with 3 big deshelled prawns and 5 pieces of pork ribs. Filled with the concentrated essence of prawns and pork ribs and the distinctive flavour of spices, the unique soup of Penang prawn noodle is more salty than sweet as compared to the traditional prawn noodle. I was initially skeptical when the stallholder suggested that I add the special chilli paste, instead of the usual sliced chilli, into the soup but after doing so, I was impressed by how the spicy chilli paste enhances the authentic flavour of the soup. The prawns are fresh and sweet and the pork ribs are meaty and tasty.

Whether you are a fan of Penang cuisine or not, if you like the traditional Hokkien prawn noodle soup, you must not miss Jason Penang pork rib prawn noodle. I will certainly return to try its other signature dishes eg fried kway teow.

7.5/10

Jason Penang Cuisine
ABC Brickworks Food Centre
Blk 6 Jalan Bukit Merah
#01-112

Fu Lu Shou Curry Yong Tau Foo

2009-08-16T20:56:00.001+08:00

I used to patronise Geylang East Food Centre for lunch when I was working around there two years ago but one stall that I never tried was the yong tao foo with the long queue. Perhaps I was not a fan of yong tao foo then but today I decided to try the curry yong tao foo to find out how good it is.

Reasonably priced at only $0.30 per piece, Fu Lu Shou Yong Tau Foo comes with an impressive variety of dishes ranging from fishball, meatball, fishcake, crab meat, wanton, ngor hiang, dried beancurd, cuttlefish, mushroom and vegetables etc. With the delightful sweetness of coconut milk and the subtle fragrance of lemon grass, the mouthwatering curry gravy is the best that I have tasted so far, just of the right thickness and spiciness and not oily at all.

Besides noodles, you can also choose to have Fu Lu Shou yong tau foo with the special yam rice. If you are a fan of curry yong tau foo like me, come down to Geylang East Food Centre and try it for yourself today.

7.5/10

Fu Lu Shou Niang Tou Fu
Geylang East Food Centre
Blk 117 Aljunied Ave 2 #01-33

Nan Sun Horlicks Soya Bean Milk

2009-08-12T13:48:00.000+08:00

As a fan of soya bean milk, the two which I love most are Rochor and Selegie. When I was at Maxwell Food Centre for breakfast last weekend, I jumped at the opportunity to try the special Nan Sun Horlicks soya bean milk.

I ordered a cup of hot Horlicks soya bean milk which costs only $1.30. Concentrated with the natural fragrance of soya beans and the distinctive flavour of Horlicks, the soya milk is delightfully creamy and sweet.

Thicker in consistency than the conventional soya bean milk, Nan Sun Horlicks soya bean milk is certainly worthwhile trying if you are looking for something different.

7/10

Nan Sun Horlicks High Calcium Soya Bean Milk
Maxwell Food Centre
12 Murray Street #01-04

Holy Grill Teriyaki Chicken

2009-08-09T06:12:00.001+08:00

There are at least 3 Western Food stalls in Old Airport Road Food Centre but the one that caught my attention was Holy Grill Authentic Western Cuisine. From the menu displayed on its brightly-colored signboard, I decided to order the teriyaki chicken which costs $5.50, with coleslaw and tasty rice as my two complementary side dishes.

Having waited for 30 minutes, I was famished when my dinner was finally served. Topped with thick teriyaki sauce, the grilled chicken chop comes in a very satisfactory portion that is indeed worthwhile for the price and the wait. Expertly grilled with an outer layer that is delightfully charred and crispy, the delicious chicken chop is tender, fleshy and flavorful. Together with coleslaw and tasty rice, it was a very sumptuous dinner.

With competition from neighbouring Western food stalls, Holy Grill certainly has an outstanding grilled chicken chop. I have yet to try its other signature dishes eg grilled salmon and prime ribeye but from the long waiting time, I can guess that they must be as good, if not better.

7.5/10

Holy Grill Authentic Western Cuisine
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road #01-27

Hock Choon Lor Mee

2009-08-04T16:07:00.000+08:00

I heard about this lor mee stall at Eunos Market which has long queues during weekends and decided to try it for myself.

Although Hock Choon sells both lor mee and laksa, I noticed most of its customers having lor mee instead.

I ordered a $3 bowl of lor mee which comes with braised meat, braised egg and fried fish nuggets. Sufficiently thick and not overly sticky, the savory gravy coats the noodles very well. The delightful combination of braised meat and braised egg with deep fried fish nuggets gives the lor mee a semi-traditional flavour.

Overall, Hock Choon lor mee is one of the more delicious lor mee in the heartlands of Singapore. If there is anything lacking, it would be fried fish which I believe would greatly improve its rating and popularity.

7.5/10

Hock Choon Lor Mee
Eunos Market And Food Centre
4A Eunos Crescent
#01-25

Shanghai Char Siew Chee Cheong Fun

2009-07-30T01:57:00.000+08:00

Located in Chinatown Complex Food Centre, Shanghai Chee Cheong Fen has a variety of special chee cheong fun (steamed rice noodle roll) at very affordable prices.

I especially love its char siew chee cheong fun which costs only $1.20. Served with sweet black sauce, chilli and sesame seeds, the appetizing chee cheong fun is stuffed with abundant servings of fresh and tasty char siew (Chinese roasted pork).

Certainly value for money and comparable with the standards of famous dim sum restaurants, Shanghai char siew chee cheong fun is definitely one of the best that I have tasted in Singapore.

8/10

Shanghai Chee Cheong Fen
Chinatown Complex Food Centre
#02-174
335 Smith Street Singapore 050335

Jacob's Cafe Beef Stew

2009-07-26T09:22:00.001+08:00

After I read the book Tell It @ Jacob's Cafe written by Towsoon Lim, the founder of Jacob's Cafe, I was curious about its famous beef stew, so I went down to the restaurant at Changi Village on a Friday evening to try it for myself.

Seated at the alfresco section of Jacob's Cafe, I enjoyed the cosy and soothing ambience and almost did not realise that I was actually on the void deck of a HDB flat. I ordered a bowl of beef stew and a plate of rice which cost $10.20. With no service charge and no GST, the prices on the menu are exactly what you pay on the bill.

Indeed value for money, the delicious beef stew comes in a satisfactory portion served with generous chunks of beef and pieces of carrot and potato. Concentrated with the sweet essence of beef, the mouthwatering soup is delightfully thick and irresistably flavorful. The beef chunks, though tasty and fleshy, could have been less tough and more marinated.

Overall it was a sumptuous dinner at Jacob's Cafe. I absolutely loved the special ambience of the place and would certainly bring my family and friends down to try its other recommended dishes eg Hainanese mutton stew and chicken curry.

7.5/10

Jacob's Cafe
Blk 5 Changi Village Road
#01-2049 Singapore 500005
Closed on Sundays

Uncle Sim Home Cooked Nyonya Economic Rice

2009-07-22T19:15:00.003+08:00

I walked past this economic rice stall in Whampoa Food Centre and was immediately attracted by its colourful signboard. On it featured the signature Nyonya dishes such as curry fish head, curry chicken, special omelette, sambal sotong, fried chicken etc.

I ordered a plate of plain rice with sambal long beans, fried omelette and curry chicken, which cost only $2.50. Concentrated with the distinctive aroma of coconut milk, the mouthwatering curry gravy is thick and flavorful with the right mix of sweetness and spiciness. Besides the outstanding curry, the crunchy sambal long beans and the tasty egg omelette also complement the rice very well.

Uncle Sim home-cooked Nyonya economic rice is certainly one of best that I have tasted in Singapore. More importantly, its delicious dishes are very affordably priced despite its superior culinary standards. Bring your family down to Whampoa Food Centre and try it for yourself today.

8/10

Uncle Sim Home Cooked Nyonya Food
Blk 90 Whampoa Food Centre
#01-63
Closed on Tuesdays

Teck Kee Cheng Tng

2009-07-16T01:50:00.000+08:00

Whenever I visit Adam Road Food Centre for dinner, I never fail to complete my meal with a bowl of refreshing cheng tng from Teck Kee.

Reasonably priced at $1.50, the cheng tng comes with a wide variety of ingredients such as sweet potato, dried longan, fresh longan, white fungus, gingko nut, jelly etc. The saccharine sweetness and soothing coolness of the cheng tng readily quench one's thirst after a sumptuous dinner.

Besides cheng tng, Teck Kee also has other hot and cold desserts eg ice kachang, bubur hitam, tau suan etc. Do try it when you are having lunch or dinner at Adam Road Food Centre.

7/10

Teck Kee Hot and Cold Dessert
Adam Road Food Centre
Closed on Mondays

Kwai Luck Mee Siam

2009-07-11T22:48:00.000+08:00

According to wikipedia, mee siam is a Siamese dish of thin rice noodles (vermicelli) in sweet, sour and spicy gravy. Thus the quality of the gravy plays a very important role in determining whether a mee siam is impressive or mediocre.

Located in Chong Boon Market in Ang Mo Kio, Kwai Luck is well-liked for its cheap and delicious mee siam. A plate of mee siam which costs only $2 comes with egg and fried beancurd. You can top up 50 cents for extra egg or bee hoon. The mouthwatering gravy, which goes very well with the bee hoon, has a kaleidoscope of flavours, ranging from the sweetness and spiciness of sambal tumis to the sourness of tamarind (assam).

Kwai Luck mee siam, which opens only in the morning, is certainly one of the best mee siam in Singapore. Come down to Ang Mo Kio and try it for yourself.

7.5/10

Kwai Luck Mee Siam
Blk 453A
Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10
#01-96
Singapore 561453
Closed on Mondays

Amoy Street Fried Kway Teow

2009-07-04T23:08:00.000+08:00

Located at the corner of the ground floor of Amoy Street Food Centre, this fried kway teow stall was one of the very few stalls that were open when I was there on a Sunday afternoon. Unable to resist the sinful fragrance of the fried kway teow, I decided to give it a try.

A plate of Amoy Street fried kway teow, which costs only $2.50, comes in a satisfactory portion topped with egg, sausage, cockles and pork lard. Sweet and savory, the kway teow is well-fried with a distinctive charred flavour that is further enhanced by the delightful aroma of pork lard. The fresh cockles, though small, are plentiful and tasty.

If you are passing by Shenton Way and craving for some delicious fried kway teow, come down to Amoy Street Food Centre and try it for yourself.

7.5/10

Amoy Street Fried Kway Teow
Amoy Street Food Centre
7 Maxwell Road
#01-01