If there’s one thing you have to do in Singapore, it’s eat at a hawker centre.
Before going, I knew this was high on my list. Initially, I thought it would just be like a food court with a cultural experience. But it’s so much more. It’s loud, busy, slightly chaotic, and somehow everything smells amazing at the same time.
You’ve got rows of stalls cooking different dishes, people queuing for specific places, and tables filling up quickly, especially at lunch. It feels local, it’s affordable, and it’s honestly one of the best ways to experience Singapore properly.
You’ll even find Michelin-recommended dishes here.
I ended up eating at hawker centres almost every day, and once you figure out how they work, it becomes part of your routine. I had my favourite meals at hawker centres as well!
So if you’re planning your trip, this is exactly where I’d go, what I’d eat, and how I’d do it again.
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Why Hawker Centres Are Worth It
Hawker centres aren’t just about food.
They’re a huge part of Singapore’s culture, and that’s why they were recognised by UNESCO. It’s where you see different cultures come together, Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, all in one place.
And the best part? You can try multiple dishes without spending much.
Most meals are around $5–$10, which is rare in a city like Singapore.
The Best Hawker Centres to Visit
This is probably the easiest one to start with.
It’s right in the city, the building itself is beautiful, and there’s a huge variety of food inside. But the best part is at night, when the street outside turns into “Satay Street.” This happens from 7pm, when they close a street in the city and set up tables and chairs. It’s quite a thing to see!
Grills come out, smoke fills the air, and it turns into a full outdoor dining experience.
This is where I had some of my favourite satay.
👉 If you’re not sure what to order, I’d actually book a food tour here so you don’t miss the best stalls
This is one of the most well-known hawker centres.
It’s right near Chinatown, and it’s where you’ll find some of the most famous dishes in Singapore.
This is where I tried Hainanese chicken rice (my absolute favourite dish), laksa and porridge.
Everything here felt very local and no-frills, which is part of the experience.
I’d plan to come here earlier in the day or join a guided food tour here so you avoid long queues.
This is one of the biggest and most local-feeling hawker centres.
There are so many stalls here that it can feel overwhelming, but that also means you’ve got a lot of options.
It’s one of those places where you just pick something that looks good and go for it.
Located in Little India, this one has a completely different vibe again.
It’s louder, more colourful, and the food here is incredible if you want biryani, curries and prata.
I loved watching them make fresh naan right in front of you!
It’s also one of the more affordable places to eat.
This one felt a bit more local compared to Maxwell.
It’s in a quieter neighbourhood, and there’s a mix of traditional stalls and newer ones.
It’s a good place to try a few different things without it feeling too touristy.
This is actually the largest hawker centre in Singapore.
There are hundreds of stalls here, including some Michelin-recognised ones.
It’s a bit more chaotic, but that’s part of the experience.
👉 If you want to try Michelin hawker food without guessing, I’d book a food tour here so you go straight to the best spots
This one was completely different.
You’re eating by the water, there’s a breeze, and it feels much more relaxed.
This is where I’d go in the evening, especially for satay, BBQ seafood and stingray.
👉 If you’re planning a sunset evening, I’d pair this with a small food tour here so you can try multiple dishes properly
If you love trying local food when you travel, I’d definitely recommend booking this food tour. It’s a fun way to taste traditional dishes and explore the city with a local.
Must-Try Hawker Dishes (What I’d Order Again)
Hainanese Chicken Rice
This is the dish you’ll hear about the most.It’s simple, but one really well, tender chicken, flavourful rice and chilli and ginger sauce.
👉 I’d try this at Maxwell Food Centre or on a guided food tour here so you get the best version
Laksa
This ended up being one of my favourites. It’s a coconut-based noodle soup that’s rich, slightly spicy, and really filling.
Satay
Grilled meat skewers with peanut sauce. Best eaten at night, especially at Lau Pa Sat or East Coast Lagoon.
Char Kway Teow
Fried noodles cooked over high heat. It’s smoky, slightly sweet, and packed with flavour.
Hokkien Mee
Another noodle dish, but wetter and more seafood-based.
Prawn Mee
A rich prawn-based noodle soup. It looks simple but has a lot of depth in flavour.
Popiah
Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables and sauce. A lighter option compared to everything else.
Kaya Toast (Breakfast)
This is what I’d start the day with. Toast with coconut jam and butter, usually served with coffee and eggs.
Desserts (Chendol & Ice Kachang)
If you need something to cool down. It’s shaved ice, coconut milk and palm sugar. Perfect in Singapore’s heat.
How to Eat at Hawker Centres (What I Learned)
The first time can feel a bit confusing, but once you get it, it’s easy.
- Find a table first
- “Chope” your seat (leave something like tissues)
- Queue at the stall
- Order and pay
- Collect your food
Also:
- Bring cash just in case
- Expect queues (it usually means it’s good and they move fast)
- Return your tray after eating
Where did I Stayed in Singapore
Watch our hotel review staying at Mercure in Singapore.
👉 View the hotel here
Where to Stay in Singapore for Iconic Views
($$) PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay
($$$) Pan Pacific Singapore
($$$$) Marina Bay Sands
FAQ: Hawker Centres in Singapore
Yes, Singapore has very strict food regulations.
Most meals are between $5–$10.
Some places accept cards, but I’d still carry cash.
Lau Pa Sat or Maxwell Food Centre.
Before lunch or after peak times to avoid queues.
Yes, many centres have both, especially Tekka Centre and Golden Mile.
Hainanese chicken rice.
Yes, but I’d spread them out so you don’t rush.
Read More ✈️
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Singapore Itinerary 1, 2, 3 or 4 Days – What to Do Each Day
How to Plan Your First Trip to Singapore (Full Guide)
Top Free and Iconic Things to Do in Singapore for First-Time Visitors
Where I Stayed in Singapore (And What I’d Recommend)
Things to Do in Marina Bay Singapore for First-Time Visitors
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