Must Eat in Singapore
Singapore is a dream for food lovers. With flavors from all over Asia coming together, every bite tells a story. Two local must-tries that truly represent Singapore’s food scene? Ya Kun Kaya Jam and Hainanese Curry Rice. These iconic bites are packed with local flavor and culture.
Hainanese Curry Rice
Hainanese Curry Rice is true comfort food. Brought over by Hainanese immigrants, this dish is all about mixing bold local flavors with simple ingredients. It’s rice topped with a variety of sides and drenched in thick, rich curry.
Expect to see:
- Crispy pork chop
- Stewed cabbage
- Ngo hiang (spiced meat roll)
- Braised pork belly or squid
- All smothered in savory curry
It’s messy, it’s tasty—and it hits all the right spots.
Where to Eat Hainanese Curry Rice in Singapore
Want to try the best Hainanese curry rice? Check out these local favorites:
- Scissors Cut Curry Rice (Jalan Besar) – Famous for their scissor-snipped pork chops and late-night hours
- Beo Crescent Curry Rice – Old-school charm with full-on flavor
- Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice (Tiong Bahru) – Big portions, bold curry, and serious local love
Tip: Get a mix of pork chop, cabbage, and a generous scoop of curry. It’s messy in the best way.
Ya Kun Kaya Jam
Kaya Jam is a sweet coconut spread with a hint of pandan—smooth, rich, and oh-so-Singaporean. It’s a breakfast must-have, especially at Ya Kun Kaya Toast, a heritage brand dating back to 1944.
The classic combo?
- Crispy toast
- A slab of butter
- Ya Kun’s signature kaya
- Soft-boiled eggs and local kopi (coffee) or teh (tea) on the side
It’s a simple breakfast, but it hits the spot every time.
Where to Try Ya Kun Kaya Toast
You’ll find Ya Kun outlets all over Singapore, including:
- Far East Square (the flagship)
- Changi Airport – grab a bite before your flight
- Plaza Singapura, Bugis Junction, and other top malls
Souvenir Idea: Take home a jar of kaya jam—it’s the taste of Singapore in a bottle!
Kaya vs Curry: Two Local Legends
- Kaya Toast – Sweet, toasty, and perfect for mornings
- Curry Rice – Savory, saucy, and great for lunch or dinner
These two dishes show how Singapore blends cultures into something delicious. Try both and taste the best of local food in one day!
Top Tips for Foodies in Singapore
- Head to hawker centres like Maxwell, Tiong Bahru, or Old Airport Road for affordable local eats
- Go early for kaya toast, and hit up curry rice stalls in the afternoon to dodge crowds
- Ask locals where they eat—they’ve got the best insider tips
Start your day with sweet kaya toast, end it with hearty curry rice—that’s how you eat like a true Singaporean.
Start your day with sweet kaya toast, end it with hearty curry rice—that’s how you eat like a true Singaporean.
- Ask locals where they eat—they’ve got the best insider tips
- Go early for kaya toast, and hit up curry rice stalls in the afternoon to dodge crowds
- Head to hawker centres like Maxwell, Tiong Bahru, or Old Airport Road for affordable local eats
Top Tips for Foodies in Singapore
These two dishes show how Singapore blends cultures into something delicious. Try both and taste the best of local food in one day!
- Curry Rice – Savory, saucy, and great for lunch or dinner
- Kaya Toast – Sweet, toasty, and perfect for mornings
Kaya vs Curry: Two Local Legends
Souvenir Idea: Take home a jar of kaya jam—it’s the taste of Singapore in a bottle!
- Plaza Singapura, Bugis Junction, and other top malls
- Changi Airport – grab a bite before your flight
- Far East Square (the flagship)
You’ll find Ya Kun outlets all over Singapore, including:
Where to Try Ya Kun Kaya Toast
It’s a simple breakfast, but it hits the spot every time.
- Soft-boiled eggs and local kopi (coffee) or teh (tea) on the side
- Ya Kun’s signature kaya
- A slab of butter
- Crispy toast
