Dinner @ Galangal in Bishan - very good Thai food

 Singapore -  A beautiful walk & jog around Bishan park.....

For dinner, Edmund and I walked into Galangal Restaurant at Bishan, we couldn't help but laugh. The restaurant was beautifully decorated with an abundance of pink roses, creating a romantic and elegant atmosphere. For a brief moment, we joked that perhaps we had walked into the "wrong" restaurant! Nevertheless, the food was good, and we settled in for what turned out to be a thoroughly enjoyable Thai meal.

We started with the Green Mango Salad, and it was an excellent choice. The shredded green mango was wonderfully crisp and refreshing, with just the right balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours. 

What made the dish particularly memorable was the generous sprinkling of small pieces of deep-fried beancurd on top. The crispy beancurd added a delightful crunch and subtle savoury flavour that complemented the tangy mango beautifully, creating a well-balanced and satisfying appetiser.

For the main course, we shared the Pineapple Fried Rice, and it certainly didn't disappoint. The fragrant fried rice was packed with flavour and generously filled with large, fresh prawns that were perfectly cooked. The generous cubes of sweet pineapple added bursts of natural sweetness that balanced the savoury rice wonderfully. But there were no cashew nuts, raisins or meat floss which could have provided additional texture and flavour. Every spoonful was colourful, aromatic, and delicious.

Beyond the food, Galangal's Instagram setting and food plated presentation made the dining experience even more enjoyable. Despite our initial amusement at the floral décor, we soon realised that the restaurant offers much more than just a beautiful setting—it serves authentic Thai cuisine prepared with quality ingredients and careful attention to flavour.

Yu Pavilion @ Kovan MRT

 Singapore - Yu Pavilion delivers some truly impressive dim sum, making it a place I'd happily return to for the food alone. One of the highlights was the Fish Roe Siew Mai, which tasted exceptionally fresh. The filling was juicy and flavourful, while the fish roe added a delightful burst of texture and savoury richness that elevated this classic dim sum favourite.

Another standout was the Deep Fried Beancurd Skin with Prawn. Wrapped in a delicate beancurd skin and fried until perfectly golden and crispy, each bite revealed succulent prawns packed with natural sweetness and umami. It was beautifully executed without being overly greasy.

To round off the meal, I ordered the Yam Paste with Ginkgo Nuts, and it was equally impressive. The paste was smooth, creamy, and wonderfully balanced, allowing the natural fragrance of the yam to shine through. Unlike some versions that rely on artificial flavourings or excessive sweetness, Yu Pavilion's rendition tasted authentic, rich, and comforting.

Unfortunately, while the food deserves high praise, the service left much to be desired. Despite having three service staff on duty and relatively few diners in the restaurant, it was surprisingly difficult to get anyone's attention. The staff appeared preoccupied with their own tasks and repeatedly walked past our table without stopping to take our order. The lack of attentiveness was disappointing and detracted from what could have been an excellent dining experience.

Overall, Yu Pavilion offers delicious, well-crafted dim sum that is certainly worth trying. However, the restaurant would benefit greatly from improving its customer service, as attentive hospitality should complement food of this quality. With better service, Yu Pavilion could easily become one of the top dim sum destinations in Singapore.

Hainanese Village Food Centre – A Taste of Heritage and Hawker Excellence in Hougang

 Singapore - Tucked away in the heart of Hougang, Hainanese Village Food Centre is more than just a neighbourhood hawker centre; it is a place steeped in history and packed with culinary treasures. Officially known as Hougang Hainanese Village Centre, and also referred to by many as Lorong Ah Soo Market, the food centre derives its name from the early Hainanese settlement that once occupied this site in the early 20th century. Although Hougang has long been recognised as a traditional Teochew enclave, this pocket of Hainanese heritage remains an enduring reminder of Singapore's multicultural roots.

My food adventure began with Beo Crescent Lor Mee, one of several outlets found across Singapore. For just $4, the bowl offered excellent value. 

The thick, silky gravy was rich with savoury flavours, coating the yellow noodles perfectly. Every mouthful was comforting and satisfying, making it an ideal start to the meal.

Next came a local favourite—Ming Jiang Kueh (和合). At only $1.30 each, the peanut pancake was one of the best I've tasted. 

Freshly made to order, it arrived piping hot with a wonderfully crispy exterior, while the inside was generously filled with fragrant crushed peanuts and sugar. The contrast between the crunchy crust and the soft, fluffy pancake made it absolutely irresistible.

The highlight of my visit, however, was the famous Punggol Noodles, renowned for its pig intestine noodles costing $5. The queue stretched well beyond 20 minutes, a clear sign of its popularity, but the wait was well rewarded. 

The noodles had a wonderful springy texture and were coated in a perfectly balanced soy-based sauce that was both aromatic and flavourful. The pig intestines were the star of the dish; tender, delightfully chewy, and completely free of any unpleasant porky odour. That's a sure sign they had been meticulously cleaned and expertly prepared.  The owner is clearly a master with the art of cooking innards, and fans of offal will certainly appreciate the care and skill behind every bowl.

Hainanese Village Food Centre may not be one of Singapore's most famous hawker centres, but it is undoubtedly one of its hidden gems. Combining a rich historical background with outstanding local food, it offers a rewarding culinary experience that is well worth exploring for both locals and visitors alike.

A Refreshing Morning Walk Through MacRitchie and a Michelin-Worthy Mee Soto & Mee Rubus

 Singapore - There's something special about starting the day with good company, fresh air, and a hearty breakfast at the end of a long walk. This morning, my friend Edmund and I met at Marymount MRT and embarked on a leisurely 6 km walk through the lush greenery of MacRitchie Reservoir.

The trail was peaceful and shaded by towering trees, with the calming sights and sounds of nature providing the perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Along the way, we passed joggers, kayakers, and families enjoying the reservoir, while occasionally catching glimpses of macaques and colourful birds hidden among the forest canopy. It was an enjoyable walk that reminded us how fortunate Singapore is to have such beautiful nature reserves so close to the city.

Our destination was the ever-popular Adam Road Food Centre, where breakfast was waiting. I had one mission in mind—to finally try the famous Warong Pak Sapari Mee Soto, which has earned the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for three consecutive years.

Mee Soto

The popularity of the stall was evident. I joined the queue and waited patiently for more than 20 minutes, watching bowl after bowl of fragrant Mee Soto being served to eager customers. Thankfully, the wait proved worthwhile. The rich, aromatic broth was full of flavour, the tender chicken complemented the springy noodles perfectly, and every spoonful justified the long queue.

I ordered the signature Mee Soto, while Edmund opted for the equally delicious Mee Rebus, topped with its thick, savoury gravy and garnished generously with fried shallots and fresh green chillies. Both dishes were comforting and satisfying after our morning hike.

With our appetites fully satisfied, we took a short stroll to Botanic Gardens MRT before catching the train back to Bishan.

A simple morning of walking, nature, good conversation, and exceptional local food, sometimes that's all you need for a perfect start to the day.

A Hidden Gem in Hougang – Discovering Authentic Ipoh Hor Fun at Promenade @ Pelikat

Singapore - Lunch today was a delightful discovery with my good friend Willy at Promenade @ Pelikat, a quaint mixed-use development tucked away in the Hougang district. From the outside, it looks like an ordinary residential building, but beneath the apartments lies a charming row of eateries and specialty shops that make it a destination for food lovers seeking hidden gems.

Our destination was JM (Sisters) Noodle House Traditional Ipoh Hor Fun, a modest eatery that has quietly built a loyal following for serving what many consider one of Singapore's most authentic bowls of Ipoh Hor Fun. The restaurant focuses almost exclusively on a single signature dish, a testament to its confidence in perfecting the classic.

The bowl that arrived looked deceptively simple, but the first spoonful of soup immediately revealed why so many diners make the trip here. The clear broth was incredibly rich in umami, brewed from prawns and chicken, delivering layers of sweetness and depth without being overly heavy. Every sip was aromatic and comforting, leaving a lingering savoury finish that invited another spoonful.

The silky-smooth hor fun noodles were beautifully cooked, soft yet retaining just the right amount of bite. Fresh prawns, tender shredded chicken, and fragrant fried shallots completed the dish, with each ingredient contributing to a bowl that was balanced and satisfying. It is easy to understand why food critics and regular customers alike praise the stall for its authenticity and consistency.

Over lunch, Willy and I enjoyed catching up while savouring every mouthful. Sometimes, the best dining experiences are found not in glamorous shopping malls but in quiet neighbourhood corners where passionate owners devote themselves to doing one dish exceptionally well.

Lunch Bukit Canberra Hawker Centre @ Sembawang MRT

 Singapore - Nestled in the northern part of Singapore, Bukit Canberra is more than just a sports and community hub. It is a thoughtfully designed 12-hectare integrated development that combines history, recreation, nature, dining, and community activities into one vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

The name "Bukit Canberra" reflects both the area's natural landscape and historical heritage. "Bukit" is the Malay word for hill, referencing the undulating terrain upon which the development sits. The name "Canberra" has deep roots in the history of Sembawang and dates back to Singapore's colonial era. Canberra Road was named in 1937 after the H.M.A.S. Canberra, a Royal Australian Navy cruiser that visited Singapore. The nearby Former Admiralty House, located atop the hill, was once the residence of senior British naval officers and was originally known as Canberra House due to its proximity to Canberra Road.

One of the highlights is the Bukit Canberra Hawker Centre, which has quickly become a favourite dining destination in the north. The spacious and well-ventilated hawker centre offers a wide variety of local favourites ranging from nasi lemak and Hokkien mee to international cuisines and desserts. With its clean surroundings and ample seating, it provides a comfortable dining experience for families, fitness enthusiasts, and visitors exploring the area.

For nature lovers, Bukit Canberra also offers beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and green spaces that provide a refreshing escape from the urban environment. The elevated location offers pleasant views and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for morning walks, exercise, or simply relaxing with friends.

I found myself looking for a place to have lunch. While browsing through the food options available, I came across Pangkor Island Nasi Lemak, a hawker stall that had received quite a number of positive online reviews. Curious to find out what the buzz was about, I decided to give it a try.

The menu offered a variety of nasi lemak and Nyonya-inspired dishes. I was initially attracted to the Nyonya Curry Chicken Turmeric Rice. Unfortunately, I was informed that the turmeric rice was unavailable that day. The staff kindly offered to substitute it with blue pea rice instead, which I accepted without hesitation.

Given the price point, I had expected a reasonably high-quality meal. The presentation looked attractive enough when it arrived, with the vibrant blue rice providing a nice visual contrast against the curry chicken. However, the eating experience did not quite match my expectations.

The first disappointment was the rice. It was noticeably mushy and appeared to have absorbed too much water during the cooking process. Instead of the fluffy texture I was hoping for, the rice lacked definition and felt overly soft. While the curry itself was reasonably flavourful, the chicken pieces were less impressive. The texture suggested that the chicken had been previously frozen and then cooked, resulting in meat that lacked the tenderness and freshness I was expecting.

My dining buddy Edmund, ordered the Nasi Lemak Lemon Satay Fish Set, priced at $8.90. He was looking forward to the dish, especially since the menu description sounded promising. Unfortunately, his experience was also underwhelming. The fried fish was heavily coated in batter, to the point where there seemed to be more flour than actual fish. While the exterior was crispy, the fish itself lacked substance, leaving Edmund somewhat disappointed.

As we compared our meals, we both felt that the food was generally mediocre. Nothing was particularly bad, but neither dish stood out in a way that justified the positive reviews we had seen beforehand. The flavours were acceptable, and the portions were decent, but there was little that would motivate us to make a return visit specifically for these dishes.

I also ordered rojak from a neighbouring stall and it tasted good.

Then ordered soya bean from a drink stall.

A Comforting Lunch at The Braised House @Kovan MRT

Singapore - One of the joys of exploring Singapore's food scene is discovering eateries that specialize in doing one thing exceptionally well. Recently, I visited The Braised House, a casual dining establishment known for its hearty braised meat dishes and comforting rice and noodle bowls.

Located along Upper Serangoon Road, The Braised House has built a reputation for its flavorful braised pork, chicken, and smoked duck dishes. The restaurant focuses on traditional Chinese-style braising, where meats are slowly cooked in aromatic sauces until they become tender and infused with rich flavours. Their signature braised pork bowls remain one of their most popular offerings.

Upon arriving, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of braised meats simmering in their signature sauce. The menu was straightforward, featuring a variety of rice bowls, knife-cut noodles, smoked duck dishes, and side items. Sometimes simplicity is best, and The Braised House embraces that philosophy well.

I decided to try their Signature Braised Pork Bowl. The dish arrived beautifully presented with generous portions of braised pork belly, minced pork, a braised egg, fresh vegetables, and rice. The first thing that caught my attention was the glossy sheen of the braising sauce coating the pork.

The pork belly was wonderfully tender, with the fat and lean meat balanced perfectly. Each bite delivered a rich, savoury flavour without being overly salty. The braising sauce had a deep umami character that complemented the rice beautifully. The minced pork added another layer of texture and flavour, while the braised egg absorbed the aromatic sauce wonderfully.

What impressed me most was how comforting the meal felt. This was not fancy fine dining. Instead, it was honest, satisfying food that reminded me why braised dishes remain so popular throughout Asia. The vegetables provided freshness to balance the richness of the meat, making the bowl feel complete and well-rounded.

As I enjoyed my lunch, I could see why The Braised House has developed a loyal following. Customer reviews frequently praise the tender meats, generous portions, and flavourful braising sauce, and after trying it myself, I could certainly understand the appeal.

After this lunch, I walked to Kovan hawker centre and had ching tng as the weather is scorching hot and then had rojak.

Kovan Rojak

A Simple Lunch @ Teck Ghee Food Centre

 Singapore - Today, I made my way to Teck Ghee Market and Food Centre, one of the well-known food centres in Ang Mo Kio. Teck Ghee is one of the six primary neighbourhoods within the Ang Mo Kio new town. Its name translates to "Virtue and Righteousness" in Hokkien and was adopted by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in the 1970s when the former rural farmlands were transformed into a modern housing estate.

With plenty of food choices available, I decided to start with a plate of Mee Siam for $3 from 341 Cooked Food. The friendly lady owner was welcoming and clearly experienced. One thoughtful touch was that she squeezed the lime for customers, ensuring the right balance of flavour without diners having to do it themselves. I also noticed how meticulously she prepared each serving. The mee siam portions were pre-portioned beforehand, allowing for consistency, and when adding the gravy, she carefully scooped and drained it twice before serving.

The result was a delicious plate of mee siam with a well-balanced flavour profile. The gravy carried a pleasant blend of assam tanginess, gentle sweetness, and a moderate level of spiciness. No single flavour dominated, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.

After finishing my mee siam, I headed over to the popular Belinda's Pancake stall. I was hoping to try her much-talked-about cone-shaped Min Jiang Kueh, but the owner informed me that it was only available on alternate days. She explained that selling puttu mayam was simpler and faster.

I ordered a serving of puttu mayam and observed the preparation process. The puttu mayam had already been pre-made, with the owner simply removing it from its packaging. Even the sugar came in a pre-packed plastic sachet. The only distinctive touch was the freshly heated grated coconut, kept warm in a steamer and served alongside the dish.

While the puttu mayam was pleasant enough, there was nothing particularly exceptional about it apart from the warm coconut. Nevertheless, it rounded off an enjoyable visit to this charming neighbourhood hawker centre.

Breakfast at Weirdoughs – A Clever Name and a Delicious Burger

 Singapore - This morning walk, I decided to try Weirdoughs, located opposite Serangoon stadium @ 11 Serangoon Ave 4, #01-10.  This a café with a cheeky and memorable name that immediately caught my attention. The name is clearly a playful twist on the word "weirdo" and "dough," perfectly fitting for a café known for its baked creations and unique menu offerings.

Upon entering the café, I noticed that the seating area was surprisingly small. What stood out was the huge communal table placed right in the centre, which seemed to occupy almost half of the customer seating space. Coupled with the café's exceptionally large kitchen area, there was relatively limited room left for patrons. Despite the compact layout, the café had a cosy and intimate atmosphere, with customers quietly enjoying their meals and coffee.

After browsing the menu, I ordered the Taiwanese Breakfast Burger, one of the café's popular offerings. This dish certainly looked impressive. The burger was built around a crusty scallion focaccia bun sprinkled generously with sesame seeds. The focaccia had a lovely texture and aroma, although I found it slightly greasy. Nevertheless, the flavour of the scallions and sesame complemented the fillings beautifully.

Inside the burger was a thin slab of peppery pork chop, a fried egg, and crisp lettuce. The pork chop was lean yet surprisingly juicy, while the egg added richness and moisture. The fresh lettuce provided a satisfying crunch that balanced the overall texture of the burger.

What I enjoyed most was how clean and balanced the flavours were. Despite being a hearty breakfast item, it did not feel overly heavy or greasy. Every ingredient worked harmoniously together, resulting in a satisfying and delicious meal.

Weirdoughs may have limited seating, but the quality of its food more than makes up for it. Between its clever branding and thoughtfully crafted dishes, it is certainly a café worth visiting for a memorable breakfast experience.

A Delightful Lunch at Mommy's Corner, Potong Pasir

 Singapore - Today, I decided to have lunch at Mommy's Corner, located at 120 Potong Pasir Avenue 1. Nestled within the neighbourhood coffee shop, this humble stall serves comforting home-style dishes that attract a steady stream of regular customers.  After that it would be a short walk to meet my business partner at Ling’s Patisseries for coffee.

After looking through the menu, I decided to order the Chicken Noodle (Dry). What impressed me immediately was the care taken by the chef in presenting the dish. Unlike many hawker meals that are simply assembled and served, this plate was thoughtfully arranged, making it look both appetising and inviting.

The noodles were topped with tender slices of chicken that were moist and flavourful. Every bite of the chicken was satisfying, reflecting the attention given to its preparation. The sauce was particularly memorable. Rich and savoury, it contained black fungus and goji berries, adding both texture and subtle sweetness to the dish. These ingredients elevated what could have been an ordinary bowl of noodles into something more unique and enjoyable.

Accompanying the noodles were freshly boiled baby pak choy vegetables. The vegetables were cooked just right, retaining their vibrant colour and natural sweetness while providing a refreshing balance to the richness of the sauce.

The meal also came with a bowl of soup. Light and comforting, it complemented the dry noodles perfectly and completed the meal. Sometimes it is these simple touches that make a dining experience feel wholesome and satisfying.

As I enjoyed my lunch, I appreciated the effort that went into preparing the food. Mommy's Corner may not be a fancy restaurant, but it delivers what many diners seek; a hearty, well-prepared meal that feels home-cooked.

A Delightful Bánh Mì Lunch at Banh Mi Saigon @ AMK MRT

 Singapore - Today, I decided to try Banh Mi Saigon located at 505 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, just a short walk from AMK MRT.  This is a popular Vietnamese eatery that has built a loyal following among food lovers. Having heard positive reviews about their bánh mì, I was curious to see if it lived up to the hype.

Upon arriving, I was impressed by the neat presentation of the food and the clean, welcoming environment. I ordered one of their signature bánh mì sandwiches and eagerly awaited my lunch.

The first thing I noticed was the bread. The baguette was wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining light and airy on the inside. Each bite delivered that satisfying crunch that is essential to a good bánh mì. The fillings were generous and well-balanced, combining fresh vegetables, herbs, pickled ingredients, and flavourful meat. The contrast of textures and flavours created a delicious harmony that kept me reaching for the next bite.

What stood out most was the freshness of the ingredients. Everything tasted carefully prepared, and the presentation reflected the attention to detail that went into the sandwich. It was evident that quality was a priority.

I must admit that the price was on the higher side. At $9.90 for a bánh mì, it is considerably more expensive than many other versions available around Singapore. However, after finishing the meal, I could understand why. The quality of the ingredients, the excellent taste, and the attractive presentation justified the premium pricing.

Overall, my visit to Banh Mi Saigon was a very enjoyable experience. While it may not be the cheapest bánh mì in town, it is certainly one of the better ones I have tasted. If you appreciate quality ingredients and authentic flavours, this is a place worth visiting when you are in Ang Mo Kio.

A Satisfying Hawker Lunch at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6 @ AMK MRT

 Singapore - One of the joys of living in Singapore is the abundance of excellent hawker food available in every neighbourhood. Today, I found myself at Blk 724 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6, a bustling hawker centre well known among residents for its wide variety of food stalls. As I walked around surveying the options, I was spoilt for choice. From local noodles and rice dishes to desserts and snacks, there seemed to be something for every craving.

After making a round of the hawker centre, I decided to start with one of Singapore's beloved local favourites – Hokkien Mee.

My choice was 99 Hokkien Mee (#01-44), a stall that had attracted a steady stream of customers. For just $6, I was served a generous plate of Hokkien Mee topped with four good-sized fresh prawns.

The moment the plate arrived, I could smell the rich aroma of seafood and wok hei. The noodles were beautifully cooked, absorbing the flavourful prawn stock that forms the heart and soul of a good Hokkien Mee. Every mouthful delivered a wonderful umami taste that kept me wanting more. The prawns were fresh, firm, and sweet, complementing the savoury noodles perfectly.

I've eaten Hokkien Mee at many places across Singapore, but this was easily one of the best versions I have tasted. The balance of flavours was excellent, and the stock-infused noodles were packed with depth and richness. It was one of those dishes where you find yourself slowing down just to savour every bite.

Even though the Hokkien Mee was already quite filling, curiosity got the better of me when I noticed another popular stall nearby.

I headed over to Sin Chon Braised Duck and ordered their duck rice set for only $4. Given today's food prices, it felt like excellent value.

The braised duck was tender and flavourful, with the meat absorbing the rich braising sauce beautifully. Each slice had a pleasant balance of savouriness without being overly salty. The accompanying rice paired well with the duck, making for a comforting and satisfying dish.

What stood out for me was the soup that came with the meal. It carried a distinct herbal flavour that was both warming and comforting. The light herbal notes complemented the richness of the braised duck nicely and added another dimension to the overall meal.

By this point, I was feeling pleasantly full, but no hawker centre visit feels complete without dessert.

For something refreshing, I stopped by House of Dessert (#01-05) and ordered a bowl of Cheng Tng for $2.50.

Served chilled, the dessert was exactly what I needed after the rich and savoury dishes. The bowl contained a delightful mixture of ingredients including longan, barley, white fungus, and other traditional ingredients swimming in a lightly sweetened syrup. It was cooling, refreshing, and not overly sweet — perfect for Singapore's warm weather.

As I sat enjoying my dessert, I took a moment to observe the lively atmosphere around me. Families, retirees, office workers, and students were all gathered around enjoying their meals. It reminded me why hawker centres remain such an important part of Singapore's food culture.

Sometimes, the best meals are not found in fancy restaurants, but in the humble hawker centres that continue to serve delicious food at affordable prices. This lunch was a perfect example of that.

Discovering a Singapore Classic at AMK Hub @ Ang Mo Kio MRT

Singapore - I usually fast by skipping breakfast and give my digestive system a longer rest. By the time I headed out for lunch, I had fasted for more than 12 hours and was definitely looking forward to a hearty meal.

My destination was Ang Mo Kio, one of Singapore's most established heartland towns. As I wandered through AMK Hub looking for something satisfying, I came across Koo Kee Yong Tow Foo Mee, a brand that has been serving Singaporeans since 1954. Despite being familiar with Yong Tau Foo for most of my life, I realised that I had never actually tried Koo Kee before.

Given its long history and loyal following, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to finally experience what has made this brand a local favourite for more than seventy years.

Without much hesitation, I ordered their most popular offering — the Koo Kee Set Meal.

The set consisted of three components: a bowl of Yong Tau Foo with five pieces of stuffed ingredients served in a rich soup, a bowl of specialty egg noodles topped with fragrant minced chicken, and a plate of kang kong drizzled with fermented bean curd sauce.

The meal arrived looking simple yet comforting, representing the type of food that generations of Singaporeans have grown up eating.

I started with the Yong Tau Foo soup. The broth was intensely flavourful, made from a combination of soya beans and ikan bilis. It had a natural sweetness and depth that immediately stood out. The five pieces of Yong Tau Foo followed the traditional style that Koo Kee has maintained since its early days. Each piece was fresh and complemented the soup perfectly.

Next came the specialty egg noodles. The noodles were springy and well-cooked, while the minced chicken topping added a savoury richness that paired beautifully with the noodles. There was something nostalgic about the dish, reminding me of the simple yet satisfying hawker meals that have become an important part of Singapore's food culture.

The kang kong provided a refreshing balance to the meal. The fermented bean curd sauce added a unique savoury flavour that elevated what could otherwise have been an ordinary vegetable dish.

Overall, the set meal was filling, delicious, and well-balanced. It was easy to understand why this combination remains Koo Kee's signature dish and why the brand continues to attract customers from all walks of life.

After enjoying such a satisfying brunch, I decided to burn off some calories by exploring AMK Hub. I spent some time walking through the six levels of the shopping mall, browsing the various shops and enjoying the weekend atmosphere.

After my AMK Hub stroll, I walked across the coffee shop and stumbled upon a food stall selling handmade buns. The display immediately caught my attention. They offered various meat fillings.

Unable to resist, I bought a set of four buns (chives, mushroom and prawns) for just $4.50.

Freshly prepared and still warm, the buns were surprisingly delicious. with a slight crispy underside. The fillings were generous and flavourful, while the soft dough provided the perfect texture. The chive filling was aromatic, the mushroom filling earthy and savoury, and the prawn filling added a delightful seafood sweetness.

By the end of the afternoon, I had enjoyed not one but two satisfying food discoveries. From finally trying the iconic Koo Kee Yong Tow Foo Mee to stumbling upon tasty handmade buns at AMK Hub, the outing reminded me that some of Singapore's best food experiences can still be found in our neighbourhood malls and heartland centres.

Tekka Market @ Little India MRT

 Singapore -  This morning I walked from Serangoon to Potong Pair MRT and got on the MRT to Little India station.  Little India is one of Singapore’s most colourful and culturally vibrant districts. Easily accessible via Little India MRT Station, the area is always lively with its mix of heritage buildings, bustling markets, traditional shops, and most importantly, amazing food.

My first stop was the famous 545 Whampoa Prawn Noodles at Tekka Centre, one of Singapore’s best-known hawker centres. Although the bowl cost $6, which felt slightly expensive for hawker food, this stall carries quite a reputation. It has received recognition from the Michelin Guide and was even featured in an episode of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown by the late Anthony Bourdain. The stall has also attracted visits from famous chefs including Massimo Bottura and Julien Royer.

I ordered the dry bee hoon mee prawn noodles, and the highlight was definitely the rich umami flavour from the prawn broth. The prawns were fresh and the noodles absorbed the savoury taste beautifully. It was easy to understand why this stall has become so popular over the years.

Next, I visited another well-loved stall, Grandma Mee Siam. What made the experience memorable was not only the food but also the owner herself; a friendly and chatty aunty running the stall all by herself. She shared that she started helping her grandmother sell mee siam at the young age of eight and still uses the same family recipe dating back to 1963.

The mee siam had a comforting homemade flavour with the right balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. It felt like eating a dish filled with tradition and history rather than just another hawker meal.

After that, I stopped by Sri Aachi Appam to try freshly made appams. Two appams cost only $3 and were served piping hot with coconut milk. 

Unlike the usual versions topped with coconut flesh, these had a slightly different twist that made them unique and enjoyable. Soft in the centre with crispy edges, the appams made for my delicious brunch.

After satisfying my appetite, I spent some time walking around Tekka Centre itself. Beyond the busy hawker centre, the adjoining shopping complex felt surprisingly quiet compared to the energetic food section downstairs. Nearby stood Citadines Rochor Singapore, blending modern city living beside one of Singapore’s oldest cultural districts.

Continuing my walk, I visited the iconic House of Tan Teng Niah along Kerbau Road. This brightly painted Chinese villa from the early 1900s is one of the most photographed buildings in Little India. Its colourful façade stands out beautifully against the surrounding streets and provides a striking contrast within this predominantly Indian cultural district.  I was not allowed entrance to this house.

Just beside it is the Indian Heritage Centre, which I had visited previously. The museum offers fascinating multi-level exhibits showcasing the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Indian and South Asian communities in Singapore.

I also wandered through the Little India Arcade along Serangoon Road, where restored shophouses sell traditional sarees, jewellery, souvenirs, and henna art. The vibrant colours and lively atmosphere perfectly captured the spirit of Little India.  Just before 11.30am, I took the MRT back home.