Singapore - Sometimes, visiting a hawker centre is not just about finding something delicious to eat. It is also about discovering the story behind the place.
Today, I made my way to Ci Yuan Hawker Centre, located within Ci Yuan Community Club at 51 Hougang Avenue 9. This is the 3rd hawker centre in Hougang and was quite a unique place in Singapore because the hawker centre is actually integrated into a community club; one of those interesting co-location concepts that makes Singapore's community spaces so distinctive.
Ci Yuan Hawker Centre opened on 4 August 2015 and was the first new hawker centre built by the government since 1985. More interestingly, it was the first hawker centre to be co-located within a community club. The idea was to bring affordable food and community facilities together under one roof.
My first stop was HK Wanton Noodle at #01-06, where I ordered their Mushroom Chicken Feet Noodles for $4.50. I have always enjoyed chicken feet, especially when they are braised until they become tender and absorb all that wonderful savoury sauce. This bowl did not disappoint.
The noodles had a nice texture, the mushrooms were flavourful, and the chicken feet were soft and delicious. It was a simple bowl of noodles, but one that really hit the spot. For just $4.50, I thought it was a very satisfying meal.
For my second meal, I headed over to Man Man Chi 慢慢吃 at #01-38 to try their handmade salty glutinous rice.
This was another pleasant surprise. The glutinous rice was nicely cooked with a good texture, and the savoury flavour made it a very enjoyable dish. There is something comforting about traditional handmade food with simple, filling and full of character.
By then, I was happily satisfied with my two meals.
Unfortunately, Singapore's weather had other plans for me. Just as I was getting ready to head home, it started to rain! So, instead of rushing off, I had to find a sheltered spot and wait for the rain to stop. Eventually, the weather eased, and I made my way to the bus stop to catch the bus home.
Another food adventure completed!
What I enjoyed most about this visit to Ci Yuan was not only the food but also discovering another interesting corner of Singapore. From a unique community club and hawker centre combination to affordable and delicious local food, Ci Yuan is a reminder of what makes Singapore's neighbourhoods so special.
