The Ultimate Guide to Singapore’s Hawker Centres in 2025: Local Food and Must-Visit Spots
When it comes to Singapore’s food culture, nothing represents it better than the hawker centre. These open-air food courts bring together diverse cuisines at affordable prices and are beloved by both locals and tourists. In 2020, Singapore’s hawker culture was even recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it a must-experience part of the city. This guide introduces the history, must-try dishes, famous hawker centres, and tips for enjoying your visit.
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1. What is a Hawker Centre?
Hawker centres are large food courts where street food vendors have been centralized for hygiene and convenience. Unlike modern mall food courts, hawker centres maintain a local, community-driven atmosphere. They are known for being cheap, fast, and delicious, making them a staple of daily life in Singapore.
2. Must-Try Dishes at Hawker Centres
A trip to a hawker centre isn’t complete without trying iconic local dishes:
- Hainanese Chicken Rice – Singapore’s national dish.
- Laksa – Spicy noodle soup with a coconut milk base.
- Satay – Grilled skewers served with peanut sauce.
- Hokkien Mee – Stir-fried noodles with seafood broth.
- Roti Prata – Indian-style flatbread, usually eaten with curry.
3. Famous Hawker Centres for Tourists
Some of the most popular hawker centres include:
- Lau Pa Sat – Famous for its satay street at night.
- Maxwell Food Centre – Home to the legendary Tian Tian Chicken Rice.
- Newton Food Centre – Known for seafood and featured in movies like “Crazy Rich Asians.”
- Old Airport Road Food Centre – A favorite among locals for affordable, authentic dishes.
4. Tips for Enjoying a Hawker Centre
- Reserve your seat the local way: Use tissues or name cards (“choping”) to secure a table.
- Be prepared for cash payments: Some stalls still don’t accept cards.
- Share dishes: Portions are affordable, so try a variety of foods with friends.
- Avoid peak hours: Lunchtime and evenings can be very crowded.
5. Conclusion
Hawker centres are more than just food courts—they are the heart of Singapore’s cultural and culinary identity. Whether you’re trying chicken rice for the first time or exploring hidden gems loved by locals, visiting a hawker centre is an essential part of experiencing Singapore. Affordable, delicious, and full of cultural flavor, they are a must for anyone visiting or living in the city.
（Photo by Unsplash.com）
