Hawker Centers
Hawker centers are a unique feature of Singaporean culture, also popular in places like Hong Kong, Macau, and Malaysia. These government-established open spaces house multiple food stalls offering affordable rents. In many ways, they resemble Taiwan’s night markets. Most of the Michelin Bib Gourmand eateries in Singapore are located in these hawker centers, offering authentic flavors at unbeatable prices.
1. Lau Pa Sat Hawker Center
Lau Pa Sat is the oldest hawker center in Singapore and the largest surviving Victorian cast-iron structure in Southeast Asia. Originally a wet market, it is now home to various food stalls attracting foodies from around the globe.
• SENG KEE
Specialties: Fujian-style fried noodles and Char Kway Teow. The fried noodles are rich in seafood flavor and perfectly coated with a savory sauce. In addition to noodle dishes, Lau Pa Sat offers a range of seafood delights like pepper crabs and curry fish head. The satay here is legendary—try stalls 7 and 8 for the best skewers in the market.
Address: 18 Raffles Quay
2. Chinatown Complex Hawker Centre
This hawker center spans two levels: the first sells various goods, while the second is home to numerous food stalls, particularly authentic Chinese eateries. The star attraction here is the Michelin-starred Hawker Chan Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodles.
• Hawker Chan Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodles
The soya sauce chicken boasts glossy, crispy skin with tender, juicy meat. Paired with fragrant Thai jasmine rice or handmade noodles, it’s a dish worth waiting in line for.
Address: Level 2, 335 Smith Street, Singapore 050335
3. Fengshan Hawker Centre
Known for housing six Michelin-awarded stalls, Fengshan is legendary among food lovers.
• Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle
Their pork noodles are a local favorite, offering rich, flavorful toppings like minced pork, dumplings, and tender pork liver.
• Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee
Claimed to be the best Char Kway Teow in Singapore, this dish is loaded with wok hei (a unique smoky flavor).
Address: 531A Upper Cross Street, Singapore 051531
4. Maxwell Food Centre
Located near Chinatown, Maxwell is one of the most iconic hawker centers, featuring over 100 stalls.
• Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
A Michelin Bib Gourmand staple, this chicken rice is a must-try for visitors.
• Lao Ban Beancurd
Offering silky-smooth beancurd in original and almond flavors, it’s a refreshing dessert option, especially in Singapore’s tropical heat.
Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184 (Closed on Mondays)
5. Alexandra Village Food Centre
Though further from the city center, this hawker center is a foodie haven worth the trip.
• Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei Claypot Laksa
Known for its claypot laksa, this stall’s rich, coconut milk-based broth is a perfect blend of spice and fragrance.
Address: 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-75, Alexandra Village, Singapore 151120
6. Newton Food Centre
Featured in Chef Nic, Newton is famous for its seafood.
• Alliance Seafood BBQ
This Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant is celebrated for its tiger prawns, stingray, and chili crab, offering great value for money.
• Heng Carrot Cake
Their fried carrot cake (a savory radish cake dish) is an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Address: 500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Newton Circus Food Centre #01-27, Singapore 229495
7. Amoy Street Food Centre
Lesser-known among tourists, this hawker center near Chinatown is a local favorite.
• Hoo Kee Bak Chang (Rice Dumplings)
Michelin-recognized for its perfectly seasoned dumplings filled with salted egg yolk and mushrooms.
• J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff
The ultra-thin, flaky pastry encases a flavorful filling of curry potato and chicken.
Address: 7 Maxwell Road, Amoy Street Food Centre, Singapore 069111
8. Old Airport Road Food Centre
A long-time favorite among Singaporeans, this hawker center near Katong is steeped in history and nostalgia.
• To-Rico Guo Shi
Famous for its lighter, soy-based kway chap broth, this dish is a Bib Gourmand recommendation.
• Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee
This stall serves tender braised pork with egg noodles in a rich, fragrant broth.
Address: Block 51, Old Airport Road
No matter where you go, Singapore’s hawker centers promise unforgettable gastronomic experiences, blending Michelin-recognized dishes with unbeatable prices.