Singapore Food

The Singapore food culture possesses an interesting mix of fascinating dishes across different ethnic backgrounds. Local dishes are a unique blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese and Nonya cuisines.

It is no exaggeration to describe Singapore as a gourmet paradise. Apart from shopping, serious eating is also a favorite pastime for this country!.

Chinese Food

Although most of the Chinese population is from Fukien Province, Chinese food in Singapore is mainly Cantonese in style. In Chinese society, eating has greater meaning than simply filling your stomach.

At festive seasons, a Chinese banquet is a feast of colours, elaborate garnishes and ingredients combined to bring out the best quality and taste.

Chinese food is also prepared and their names often carry symbolic meanings which signifies prosperity, harmony and longevity.

Popular Chinese dishes
Hainanese Chicken Rice
Bak Kut Teh
Carrot Cake
Char Kway Teow
Beef Horfun

Malay Food

Malay Food

Malay Food is generally spicy and coconut is also a favorite ingredient in their dishes. Although spicy, it is not necessarily chilli hot. With a moderate use of coconut and local spices, Malay dishes emit a fragrant and yet modest flavor to your sense.

The Malay cuisine in Singapore is strongly influenced by Indonesian islands of Sumatra and Java. Rice is a staple food for Malays as it complements Malay dishes very well.

Malay food is Halal, meaning the meat is slaughtered or prepared in the manner prescribed by Islamic law.

Popular Malay dishes
Nasi Lemak
Satay
Mutton Soup
Beef Rendang
Mee Rebus

Indian Food

South Indian food is generally more spicy as compared to North Indian food, as it offers a distinctive rich taste of fiery curry enriched with coconut milk.

North Indian, on the other hand, prefer their dishes with cream and ghee, a kind of butter made from the milk of cows. Indian Muslim food is widely popular in Singapore.

Order a Murtabak, an unleavened bread with minced meat and onions or Nasi Bryani, a unique rice dish cooked with seasoned chicken or mutton.

Popular Indian dishes
Fish Head Curry
Tandoori
Roti Prata
Nasi Bryani

Nonya Food

Nonya (Peranakan) food combines Chinese and Malay cooking into a unique blend. Peranakans are descendents of early Chinese settlers from Penang and Malacca who married with local Malays.

Nonya food is tangy, aromatic, spicy and herbal. Key ingredients include coconut, tamarind, lemon grass, shrimp paste and chilli. A famous Nonya dish is Laksa (originated in India though).

Popular Nonya dishes
Laksa
Nonya Kueh
Otak Otak

So what is my favorite Singapore dish?

Well, take a look at my Top 7 Best Singapore Food Don't leave Singapore without trying them!.

Been to Singapore before?, what are your favorite Singapore food dishes, please share your favorites with us by adding your best memories.

Click here to submit your story - Holidays in Singapore

Singapore Food Guide

Best Singapore Food - If you are looking for the best local food, look no further. Check out my personal Top 7 favorite mouth-watering MUST TRY dishes...

Best Buffet in Singapore - Finding a delicious buffet in Singapore is a daunting task. That’s because buffet has become a popular trend in our eating culture and we are overwhelmed with choices.

Singapore Hawker Centers - This unbiased singapore street food guide is about locating top 10 Singapore Hawker Centers that will serve best local food.

See what's new in singapore:

Back to Visit Singapore City