Festive Foodie’s Guide to CNY Dining in Singapore

Chinese New Year (CNY) is just around the corner, and in true Singaporean fashion, it’s time to feast! Whether you’re craving traditional reunion dinners, Insta-worthy eats, or a modern twist on classics, Singapore’s food scene has it all.

From luxurious hotel spreads to cozy family-run gems, here’s your guide to where to makan this Lunar New Year.

#1: PEACH BLOSSOMS @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay

If you’re all about the classics done right, Peach Blossoms offers the epitome of Cantonese elegance. Think tender abalone, double-boiled soups, and their standout Yu Sheng (prosperity toss) featuring fresh lobster and gold flakes. The restaurant’s understated elegance sets the tone for a meaningful reunion dinner.

Arrive early for some cute family pics in front of their floral displays and say hello to IG feed goals!

#2: THE SOUP SPOON

For those looking for affordable yet satisfying CNY dishes, The Soup Spoon has you covered. Their festive offerings include a hearty Prosperity Soup filled with ingredients like mushrooms, pork, and abalone. Paired with their popular soups and hearty sides, it’s a perfect spot for a family reunion meal without burning a hole in your wallet.

You can enjoy a full meal in under S$20, perfect for a laid-back yet festive gathering.

#3: CAROUSEL @ ROYAL PLAZA ON SCOTTS

Want variety? Carousel’s award-winning buffet lineup has something for everyone, from Asian delicacies to international flavors. Their CNY spread features crowd favorites like chili crab, pineapple tarts, and even Yu Sheng stations for endless tossing.

Pro tip: Go with stretchy pants as you’ll need them.

#4: HUA YU WEE

If your family loves nostalgic vibes, Hua Yu Wee is a must-visit. Nestled in an old colonial bungalow along Upper East Coast Road, this seafood haven is perfect for those who appreciate tradition and flavor without the glitz. Their signature chili crab is legendary, and the bustling old-school atmosphere adds charm.

The outdoor seating under fairy-lit trees makes for a perfect throwback shot.

#5: CHINATOWN STREET FOOD

For a wallet-friendly yet ultra-authentic experience, head to Chinatown Food Street. Feast on dishes like satay, oyster omelet, and Hainanese chicken rice under glowing red lanterns. It’s perfect for soaking in the festive energy without breaking the bank.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Bring a friend to capture TikTok-worthy food shots and bonus points for twirling noodles in slo-mo.

#6: EMPRESS @ ACM

Who says plant-based can’t be indulgent? Empress, located at the Asian Civilisations Museum, offers a stunning CNY vegan menu that even meat lovers will adore. The menu features dishes like crispy tofu skin rolls and vegan Yu Sheng, all with riverside views to boot.

Don’t miss their cocktail menu—it’s a mood.

#7: YAN @ NATIONAL GALLERY SINGAPORE

Celebrate in style at Yan, known for its elevated Cantonese dishes and impeccable presentation. Their Yu Sheng, artfully arranged like a painting, is almost too pretty to toss. The restaurant’s rooftop garden view adds extra sparkle to the festive season.

Order their curated cocktails inspired by Chinese zodiac animals for an added cool factor.

#8: JANICE WONG SINGAPORE

No CNY feast is complete without dessert, and Janice Wong’s artisanal creations are pure artistry. From Mandarin orange chocolate bonbons to pineapple tarts with a modern twist, her confections are a hit for gifting or indulgence.

Grab their festive gift boxes for a chic and delicious souvenir.

ADDITIONAL TIPS!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

a. Book Early: Popular spots fill up fast during CNY, so snag your reservations ASAP!
b. Yu Sheng Etiquette: Toss as high as you want as it’s good luck! Just don’t poke anyone with the chopsticks (been there, done that).
c. Share the Love: Many restaurants offer takeaway or delivery options if you prefer a cozy meal at home.

This Chinese New Year, celebrate with flavors that reflect Singapore’s vibrant food culture. Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or treating yourself to a solo feast, these spots promise to make your reunion meals unforgettable.

 

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5 Best Hawker Centres in Singapore

Singapore boasts one of the most diverse food scenes on Earth, serving as a melting pot of various cultures. It is a place where you can indulge in a rich tapestry of culinary delights, encompassing Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, French, Japanese, Korean, and Italian cuisines. You can immerse yourself in these culinary experiences by visiting the nearest hawker centre.

The Lion City is renowned for its hawker centres, where you can still relish a delectable meal at a reasonable price. The available options are simply astounding.

On that note, here are some of the finest hawker centres in Singapore that you must try!

WHAT IS A HAWKER CENTRE?

The concept of hawker centres has spread rapidly since its inception in the 1970s. These centres were established to provide a new home for street food vendors, and over time, many of them have become cherished institutions. Their stalls showcase the finest of local cuisine, featuring iconic dishes such as chicken rice, bak chor mee, roti prata, nasi lemak, laksa, and much more. Today, a new generation of hawkers has emerged, offering an enticing variety of international flavors, from comforting bowls of ramen to delightful plates of pasta.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Hawker centres are open-air structures that house a range of food stalls offering local dishes and specialties from around the world. These centres are conveniently situated near large housing complexes, allowing you to effortlessly socialize with your neighbors at the communal tables.

#1: CHINATOWN COMPLEX FOOD CENTRE

As a result of being the world’s first hawker stall to gain a Michelin star, Chinatown Complex Food Centre has numerous Bib Gourmand and Plate winners. It stands as one of the largest hawker centres in Singapore, boasting over 260 stalls.

If you’re a fan of desserts, you should definitely try the 115 Tang Shui stall. This stall has been offering sweet soups since the 1960s, made from smooth nut pastes such as sesame, almond, and walnut. With a focus on preserving heritage, this stall offers a delightful selection of sweets.

#2: HONG LIM FOOD CENTRE

Situated conveniently next to Chinatown Point, Hong Lim Market and Food Centre has become more accessible with the implementation of the Downtown Line. It is advisable to have breakfast or brunch here to avoid the bustling office crowd. You can indulge in delicious minced pork noodles at Tai Wah Pork Noodle, savory char kway teow at Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee, and delectable peanut pancakes at Granny’s Pancake. To minimize waiting time, it is recommended to arrive before 8 in the morning.

#3: NEWTON FOOD CENTRE

Further popularized by the film “Crazy Rich Asians” and Gordon Ramsay’s SingTel Hawker Heroes Challenge in 2013, the Newton Food Centre is home to numerous culinary treasures, ranging from chilli crab to carrot cake. This establishment is frequently mentioned by adventurous tourists seeking to indulge in authentic Singaporean cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the seafood offerings and local specialties at the following stalls:

– Soon Wah Fishball Kway Teow Mee
– Hajah Monah Kitchen
– XO Minced Meat Noodles
– Bee Heng Popiah
– 88 San Ren Cold and Hot Dessert
– Newton Authentic Song Kee Teochew Fish Porridge
– Guan Kee Grilled Seafood
– Hup Kee Oyster Omelette
– TKR Honey Chicken Wing (大家乐烧烤鸡翼)

#4: TEKKA CENTRE

If you have cravings for Indian cuisine, there’s no hawker centre in Singapore that can quite compare to the delightful charm of Tekka Centre. From mouthwatering tandoor-cooked dishes and appam to fragrant nasi biryani and tempting Indian rojak, this place has it all.

Situated in the vibrant Little India neighborhood, Tekka Centre stands as a true dining landmark. It offers generous portions of freshly prepared food to both visitors and locals, conveniently located just a stone’s throw away from the Little India MRT station. Housed within a colorful warehouse, it has quickly become a go-to spot for those seeking delicious fare at fair prices.

#5: ALBERT CENTRE FOOD CENTRE

Just a short stroll away from Bugis Junction and Bugis+, you’ll find Albert Centre Market and Food Centre, a bustling hub where you can find everything from fresh produce to dried goods, along with a delectable selection of local cuisine. Start your hawker haunt by trying out the following:

– Say Seng Cooked Food
– Angel Horse Teochew Fish Soup
– Si Ma Lu Goreng Pisang
– Pondok Makan Indonesia
– Zheng Xing Mei Shi
– Fatt Kee Shou Shi
– Hock Lee Fish ball Noodles
– Bai Nian Niang Dou Fu

Image Credits: unsplash.com

While Bugis embraces modern trends, Albert Centre remains wonderfully old-school, serving up honest dishes like Cantonese porridge, fish ball noodles, and hearty pig organ soup. You can rely on this hawker centre to offer affordable and satisfying meals that will leave your appetite thoroughly appeased.

Sources:1,2,& 3

 

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Brunch Guide to 5 Best Places in Singapore

Cafes in Singapore are easy to find. And, as brunch has become a staple in most of our lifestyles, more eateries have presented their brunch offerings.

Brunch is one of the best meals you can have for the day, especially during weekends where sleep is a luxury. Just ask the Singaporean ladies who brunch! If you are an avid fan of brunch, you are in for a treat. Singapore has several restaurants that offer brunch options apart from the classic avocado toast.

Here are some of the brunch places where you can indulge at!

1. THE NEPTUNE SG

Nestled in the trendy streets of Katong, where cold brew and sourdough abound. Decked out in a calming sage green, the Neptune SG is inspired by Japanese cuisine.

Here, you will if brunch options that will tickle your taste buds. You can try their flavorful Shrimp Scampi (S$21.90). This dish comes with ribbons of tagliatelle, which are dressed in garlic butter shrimp sauce with a crispy shallot panko sauce.

Image Credits: facebook.com/theneptunesg

Location: 237 East Coast Road, Singapore 428930

2. WILD HONEY

Wild Honey boasts a hearty list of delicious all-day breakfast dishes inspired by various places around the world. Wild Honey’s beautifully designed restaurants use the highest quality ingredients, which are stunningly presented.

You can start with the extra cheesy Brazilian bread and work your way up to the spicy Shakshouka with chorizo and braised eggs. If you prefer French food, you can order the St Michel, which is a savory French toast.

Image Credits: wildhoney.com.sg

Location: Multiple locations including Mandarin Gallery

3. THE POPULUS COFFEE & FOOD CO.

Constantly graced by queues, Populus is known for being one of the top places for brunch. Its Buckwheat Pancake (S$18.50), the Populus Scramble (S$18), and grain bowls are immensely popular.

You see, Buckwheat Pancakes are fluffy and soft. Surrounded by cornflake crumbs, the pancakes go well with its thyme-infused maple syrup. Be sure to get this Instagrammable moment!

Image Credits: facebook.com/thepopuluscafe

Location: 146 Neil Road, Singapore 088875

4. 6 LETTER BRUNCH

6 Letter Brunch is the latest Instagrammable cafe to hit the East. It is situated along Siglap Road. Started by the same team behind 6 Letter Coffee, this bicycle-themed cafe is decorated with bicycle racks and potted plants.

Its menu is incredibly expensive, with over one hundred items to choose from. You can try the 6 Letter Brunch Rosti (S$16). This dish has Norwegian smoked salmon, house-made rosti, sunny-side-up egg, shiitake mushrooms, avocado, fresh fruits, sour cream, and salad.

Image Credits: facebook.com/6letterbrunch

Location: 103 Frankel Avenue Singapore, Singapore 458225

5. XPERIENCE AT SO/ SINGAPORE

Dubbed as the “Mother of All Brunches”, Xperience at SO/ Singapore displays its brunch offering with perfection. Create magical memories by indulging in a tower of magnificent delights.

You can look forward to tasting dishes like Grilled Truffle and Cheese Toasties, Chicken and Beef Sliders with Poached Tiger Prawn Skewers, and Tonkotsu Tartare Beef Ribeye. People who love sweets can finish their brunch with Chocolate Fondue and Homemade Waffles. Just typing this makes me hungry!

Image Credits: so-singapore.com/wine-dine/xperience-restaurant/#map_ctx

Location: 35 Robinson Rd, Singapore 068876

Bookmark this guide to the best brunch places in Singapore for reference when your cravings hit!

Sources: 1, 2, 3

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Try These New Food Twists In Singapore

From Milo-coated chicken to salted egg yolk fries, here are some of the new flavors available in Singapore.

Salted Egg Yolk Fries by McDonald’s

Last Christmas, I discovered that my nephew has been allergic to potatoes. Imagine not being able to eat fries and all its glorious flavors! What’s more? McDonald’s just introduced the Salted Egg Yolk Fries. It takes the trend to another level! Simply upgrade your regular fries by adding S$1.20.

Pandan Ice Cream by McDonald’s

Launched at the same time as the Salted Egg Yolk fries and the Peach Pie (i.e., retails for S$1.40) is none other than the Pandan ice cream. Local-inspired Pandan desserts are now available on the McDonald’s menu. Begin by trying the Pandan Soft Serve Cone, Pandan Twist Cone, or the Pandan ChocoCone. These three retail for about S$1 to S$1.20.

Image Credits: mukahpages.blogspot.com

McDonald’s Sundae or the McFlurry fans will be happy to hear that the Pandan flavor extends to these treats as well. Pandan Soft Serve Sundae costs about S$2. While, the McFlurry is S$3.

Sweet Potato Milkshake by Don Don Donki

Expect nothing but long queues at Don Don Donki, especially with their newly offered Sweet Potato Milkshake (S$4.90). Members can get this unique milkshake at a dollar off. However, you can also collect points and redeem these in-store points for additional discounts.

This drink is available on a limited time only. Head down to their outlets at Orchard Central or 100 AM to enjoy this drink while stocks last!

Milo-Coated Chicken Pops by Flavour Flings

You do not have to cross the Malaysian border to get the hugely popular calorie bomb called the Milo-Coated Fried Chicken. In Malaysia, the spicy fried chicken is coated with the cocoa powder and Milo dip. In Hougang, an eatery called Flavour Flings recently added the Milo-Coated Chicken Pops to its menu. It costs about S$9.90 per plate. This comes with the Sambal Belachan Mayo and Nacho Cheese Sauce.

Does it sound weird to you? Well, it seems that the people of Have Halal Will Travel gave it a resounding thumbs up. Judge it for yourself!

Image Credits: Flavour Flings via facebook.com

The new year 2019 calls for more foodventures! Be bold enough to try at least one of these dishes. 🙂

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