10 Best Hawker Centers in Singapore (+ Free Map!)

Are you trying to find out where to enjoy a great meal in Singapore without breaking the bank? Looking for the best street food around? Believe me, the hawker centers in Singapore are your answer!

If you’re anything like me, you love exploring new places and tasting the finest local cuisine. In Singapore, the ultimate way to do this is by visiting the city’s amazing hawker centers.

For those who might not know, hawker centers are bustling food courts where you can get incredibly tasty meals at very budget-friendly prices.

Here, you’ll find everything from Michelin-star hawker food to classic Singaporean dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and chili crab.

In this guide, I’m excited to share my top 10 hawker centers in Singapore. I’ll also point out my must-try dishes, the best spots for a hearty hawker breakfast, and some handy tips to help you navigate these food markets like a local.

So, let’s discover the best street food Singapore has to offer!

Ultimate Guide to Singapore’s Hawker Centers

History of Singapore Food Courts

Ever wondered how hawker centers in Singapore became such a big part of the city’s food culture? Let’s take a quick trip back in time.

In the early 1800s, the streets of Singapore were filled with hawker stalls, serving affordable and delicious food to the working class. However, hygiene was not exactly a priority back then.

In the 1960s and 70s, the government stepped in, moving these street vendors to dedicated hawker centers with better facilities like running water and electricity. This made things much cleaner and safer.

Fast forward to 2024, Singapore has 120 hawker centers with around 13,000 licensed stalls. Each specializes in a single dish, with some even earning Michelin stars. Click here to see the full list of hawker centers in Singapore.

Why Are Hawker Centers So Popular in Singapore?

Hawker centers are super popular because they offer the best delicious, cheap, and authentic street food in Singapore.

Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly capsule hotel in Singapore, these affordable restaurants let you try a wide variety of local dishes all in one place, often for just around $3.50 USD per meal.

So, next time you’re wondering what to eat in Singapore, head to a hawker center and try something new. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Hawker Centers vs. Food Courts: What’s the Difference?

Hawker centers are open-air, super affordable, and packed with traditional food stalls, giving you that authentic local vibe.

On the other hand, Singapore’s food courts are typically in air-conditioned malls, offering both local and international dishes but at a higher price. They’re nice, but I think the food isn’t as good.

For a real taste of Singapore’s food scene, I’d stick to hawker centers. But if you’re curious, check out Food Republic in VivoCity while heading to Universal Studios Singapore.

Explore Singapore’s Best Hawker Centers

As you can imagine, with over 120 hawker centers in Singapore, it’s nearly impossible to visit them all.

I’ll dive deeper into some of them later, but to get you started, I’ve put together a list of hawker centers in Singapore that are must-visits, complete with a map to help you find them.

But remember, this list is just the beginning! If you get hungry while exploring Singapore, drop by the closest hawker center. You might stumble upon something amazing and unexpected!

Free Map of Singapore’s Hawker Centers

As promised, here’s a free map highlighting the best hawker centers in Singapore. If you’re wondering about travel times, check out this guide on how long it takes to get to Singapore from different cities worldwide in 2024. I hope it helps!

10 Best Hawker Centres in Singapore

When I was planning my first trip to Singapore, I spent countless hours reading reviews and looking for must-try dishes at every hawker center.

The effort was so worth it. Having a game plan helped a lot because these food markets are massive and can be a bit overwhelming. Decision paralysis is real! But don’t worry too much—half the fun is discovering new favorites as you wander around.

Here are some of the best hawker centers in Singapore that you absolutely have to visit:

1. Maxwell Food Centre: Best Hawker Center in Singapore

Location: 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 2 AM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Maxwell (3-minute walk)

Maxwell Food Centre is a true gem and one of the best hawker centers in Singapore, perfect for starting your hawker food tour. Located in Chinatown, this bustling spot offers some of the best street food in Singapore. For fewer crowds, try an early hawker breakfast or a late lunch.

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice (#01-10/11): This famous hawker stall offers tender chicken and fragrant rice for just 6 SGD. Even Gordon Ramsay loved it! 
• Zhen Zhen Porridge (#01-54): Their creamy fish porridge is a comforting way to start your day.
• Rojak, Popiah & Cockle (#01-56): Don’t miss their tangy rojak and crunchy popiah. Both are unique and delicious!

Want to know more? Check out this amazing Maxwell Hawker Centre food tour by 2Passports 1 Dream.

2. Chinatown Complex Food Centre: Largest Hawker Center in Singapore

Location: 335 Smith St, Singapore 050335
Opening Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 10 PM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Chinatown (4-minute walk) or Maxwell (5-minute walk)

For budget food in Singapore, Chinatown Complex Food Centre is unbeatable. With over 260 stalls, it’s the largest hawker center in Singapore. Whether you’re after healthy meals or tasty snacks, this place has it all.

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• Hawker Chan (#02-126): Known for the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal. Their soya sauce chicken rice is a must-try and costs only 3.5 SGD.
• Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao (#02-135): Their juicy xiao long bao and handmade noodles are some of the best street food to eat in Singapore.
• Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice (#02-198): This Michelin Bib Gourmand stall serves up smoky, aromatic claypot rice.
• 1950 Coffee: Need a caffeine boost? Their traditional kaya toast and kopi (coffee) are the perfect hawker breakfast.

Pro Tip: The center is divided into different sections, and you can tell where you are by the color of the tables.

3. Newton Food Centre: Singapore’s Most Famous Hawker Center

Location: 500 Clemenceau Ave North, Singapore 229495
Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 2 AM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Newton (2-minute walk)

Newton Food Centre is probably the most famous hawker center in Singapore, thanks to its feature in “Crazy Rich Asians.”

The atmosphere here is lively, and while the vendors can be a bit pushy and prices slightly higher, it’s still a fantastic spot to explore some of the best street food to try in Singapore, especially if you’re staying near Orchard Road.

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• Alliance Seafood (#01-27): Their chili crab, paired with deep-fried mantou buns, is messy but oh-so-delicious.
• Heng Carrot Cake (#01-28): This savory radish cake comes in both “white” and “black” versions. Both are fantastic, even if they’re not a dessert.
• 88 San Ren Cold and Hot Dessert (#01-25): End your meal with refreshing cendol, a traditional dessert with shaved ice and sweet toppings.

If you´re heading to Newton Food Centre and don’t want to carry your shopping bags back to the hotel, check out my Uber in Singapore blog post for some useful transport tips!

4. Tekka Centre

Location: 665 Buffalo Road, Singapore 210665
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 11 PM (shop hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Little India (4-minute walk)

If you’re craving a mix of flavors, head to Tekka Centre in Little India. This spot is a favorite because it showcases the diversity of Singapore eats.

Yes, it can be a bit chaotic, but the street food here is amazing. With plenty of halal, vegan, and vegetarian options, you’re bound to find something you love!

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• Allauddin Briyani (#01-232): Delicious briyani with basmati rice and aromatic spices for less than 5 USD. Michelin-recommended.
• Heng Gi Goose and Duck Rice (#01-335): Rich, savory braised duck rice that’s a must-try hawker food in Singapore.
• Ah Rahman Cafe and Royal Prata (#01-247/248): Their murtabak and onion prata are incredible. Pair them with a mango lassi or teh tarik from the neighboring drink stall.

5. Lau Pa Sat

Location: 18 Raffles Quay, Singapore 048582
Opening Hours: 24 hours (shop hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Telok Ayer (5-minute walk)

Lau Pa Sat, or Telok Ayer Market, is one of the most iconic hawker centers in Singapore. Located in the central business district, it’s a fantastic place to grab a bite before or after watching the Gardens by the Bay Light Show. 

Start your day with a traditional hawker breakfast at the Kopi Kiosk for kaya toast, soft-poached eggs, and kopi coffee. It’s budget-friendly and a refreshing change from the usual avocado toast!

In the evenings, Boon Tat Street next to Lau Pa Sat turns into a lively satay street with various stalls grilling delicious marinated meat skewers. The satay here is absolutely delicious!

Bonus Tip: If you want to learn more about this hawker center, take a look at Seth Lui’s food tour of Lau Pa Sat.

6. Changi Village Hawker Centre

Location: 2 Changi Village Road, Singapore 500002
Opening Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Pasir Ris (followed by bus service 89 to Changi Village.

If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe near the beach, Changi Village Hawker Centre is the perfect spot. It’s close to Changi Beach Park and makes for a great pit stop for a cheap lunch in Singapore.

Afterward, you can hop on a ferry to Pulau Ubin island for some biking, kayaking, or even hiking up Puala hill.

Wondering what to eat in Singapore at Changi Village? Start with the Million Star Fried Banana—crispy, golden, and just sweet enough. Another favorite of mine is Wong Hing Kitchenette, especially their Fried Mee with Bitter Gourd and Pork Ribs.

But the real star here is the Nasi Lemak from either Mizzy Corner Nasi Lemak or the International Muslim Food Stall. This dish features rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with crispy fried chicken or fish—definitely a must-try!

7. Old Airport Road Food Centre

Location: 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051
Opening Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 11 PM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Dakota (5-minute walk)

Opened in 1973, Old Airport Road Food Centre is one of the oldest and largest hawker centers in Singapore. It was once a hidden gem but has become a popular destination for food tours.

If you’re looking for tasty and affordable hawker food, this is the place to be. It can get hot during the day, so visiting in the evening is best.

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• J & J Special Beef Noodle (Stall #01-111): Known for its tender beef and rich broth, their beef noodle soup is a local favorite. The dry version is also excellent with well-marinated beef.
• Roast Paradise (Stall #01-121): This spot offers juicy, charred char siu (barbecued pork) and crispy roast pork. The flavors are incredible, and the honey mustard dip is a perfect match.
• 132 Claypot Rice (Stall #01-132): For just six dollars, you get crispy-edged rice with tender chicken and Chinese sausage.
• Geylang Lor 20 Banana Fritters (Stall #01-155): Don’t miss these crispy, delicious fried bananas for dessert. They’re a must-try!

8. Golden Mile Food Centre

Location: 505 Beach Road, Singapore 199583
Opening Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 8 PM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Nicoll Highway (7-minute walk)

Golden Mile Food Centre, near the Central Business District and Kampong Glam, is one of my top hawker centers in Singapore. It’s still somewhat under the radar for tourists, making it perfect for budget-friendly meals in Singapore without the crowds.

The food options here are super diverse, offering everything from Thai and Malay to Indian and even Western dishes, which is pretty rare to find in Singapore’s hawker centers.

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• 86 Lor Mee and Chicken Rice: You’ve got to try their lor mee with braised pork belly, fried egg rolls, crispy wontons, cilantro, sprouts, and a half-boiled egg—all for just 4 SGD.
• Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice: Tender white chicken and flavorful rice cooked in chicken broth for just $3.50. It’s a classic Singaporean dish that you can’t miss.
• Golden Mile Curry Rice: For $3.70, you get a pork chop curry rice with a tender breaded pork cutlet, rice, curry, cabbage, and a fried egg. Delicious and filling!

Bonus Tip: Cool off with a refreshing chendol from Old Amoy Chendol or grab a fresh watermelon juice for $2.50. For more on what to eat in Singapore, check out Bino´s detailed food guide.

9. Tiong Bahru Market

Location: 30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168898
Opening Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 11 PM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Tiong Bahru (5-minute walk)

Tiong Bahru Market is one of the oldest and most loved hawker centers in Singapore. Built in the 1950s, it’s now a clean, spacious spot to enjoy some of the best Singapore street food.

You’ll find everything from local breakfast favorites to Michelin-recommended dishes. The ground floor also has a fantastic wet market with fresh produce and flowers.

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice (Stall #02-67): Try flavorful curry rice with tender pork chops, braised pork belly, and more. Don’t skip the curry sauce!
• Granny’s Pancake (Stall #02-40): These airy pancakes come with peanut butter and peanuts or coconut.
• Lor Mee 178 (Stall #02-23): Enjoy thick, rich lor mee with chewy noodles, fish cake, and a hearty gravy for just $4 SGD.
• Tong Kee Cooked Food (Stall #02-29): Famous for springy noodles and light, flavorful wontons. A great spot for a filling meal.
• Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee (Stall #02-01): Get a plate of prawn mee with squid, fish cake, and a rich, umami-packed gravy.
• Yue Hao Cafe (Stall #02-24): Try the Kaya toast breakfast set here for just $2.30.

10. Amoy Street Food Centre

Location: 7 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069111
Opening Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM (stall hours may vary)
Closest MRT Station: Telok Ayer (2-minute walk)

Amoy Street Food Centre is a bit of a hidden gem in the Central Business District. Established in 1983, it’s a favorite among office workers and locals, but not swarmed by tourists.

This two-story food center is packed with affordable and delicious local dishes, making it a top spot for Singaporean street food. If you love fusion food on a budget, you’ve got to check this place out!

Must-Try Hawker Stalls:

• A Noodle Story (Stall #01-39): Their Singapore-style ramen is a must-try, with springy noodles, crispy potato-wrapped prawn, tender char siu, and an onsen egg. No wonder it’s got the Michelin Bib Gourmand!
• Kin Men Seng Heng Halal Hokkien Braised Duck (Stall #01-49): Their tender braised duck rice is hearty and full of flavor.
• Hong Kee Beef Noodle (Stall #01-42): This place serves amazing beef noodle soup with tender beef slices and rich broth. It’s a Michelin-rated spot.
• J2 Famous Crispy Curry Puff (Stall #01-21): Their flaky curry puffs, with fillings like chicken, sardine, or potato, are a real treat. Another Michelin Bib Gourmand winner.

10 Tips for Visiting Hawker Centers in Singapore

Now that you know some of the best hawker centres in Singapore, let´s move on to some great tips to make your experience even better. Here’s what you need to know before your first visit:

1. Follow the Locals

One of the best ways to find the tastiest food in Singapore is to follow the locals. They know where the best dishes are served. If you see a long line at a stall, that’s usually a good sign. Singaporeans don’t mind waiting for quality hawker food, and neither should you.

While you’re in line, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the person in front of you. A simple, “What are you ordering?” can lead to great recommendations. People are generally friendly and love sharing their food tips.

Also, keep an eye on the stall’s license score. The National Environment Agency (NEA) grades each stall from A (highest) to D (lowest). I usually opt for stalls with an A or B rating to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

2. Choose Your Timing

Timing is everything when visiting hawker centers. Before you head out, check the opening hours of the stalls you want to visit online. Some popular hawker stalls in Singapore close early or have specific days off.

Hawker centers can get incredibly crowded during peak hours, especially lunch (12-2 PM) and dinner (6-8 PM). As a Spaniard used to eating late, having lunch at 3 PM or dinner at 9 PM works perfectly for me. It’s quieter, and I can enjoy my meal without the rush.

3. Stay Comfortable

Singapore can be hot and humid, and most hawker centers don’t have air conditioning. However, many are well-ventilated with plenty of shade. Dress in light, comfortable clothing, and consider bringing a handheld fan to stay cool, even if you are visiting Singapore during winter.

Staying comfortable will make your dining experience much more enjoyable, especially if you plan to hop from stall to stall trying different dishes.

4. Know the Drinking Rules

Food stalls usually only sell food, with separate stalls for drinks and desserts. Drinks can sometimes cost as much as the food because ice and refrigeration are pricey in a hot climate.

If you plan to enjoy an alcoholic drink, remember that the legal drinking age in Singapore is 18. Public drinking is banned from 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM, and in some areas, it’s off-limits from Saturday morning until Monday morning.

Knowing these weird rules in Singapore can help you avoid fines and enjoy your meal without any issues.

5. Bring Cash

One of the most common questions I get is, “How do you pay at hawker centers? Do they accept cards?” Most hawker stalls in Singapore only accept cash, so make sure you have enough Singapore dollars with you, including small bills and coins for quicker transactions.

The only exceptions are some tourist-heavy spots like Lau Pa Sat and certain stalls that accept mobile payments, but that’s mostly for locals.

Bonus tip: There’s no tipping at Singapore hawker centers, so you can just relax and enjoy the delicious street food without any extra costs.

6. “Chope” Your Seat

Before you line up for hawker food, find a table and “chope” it by placing a tissue packet, umbrella, or business card on it. This is the local way to reserve seats and one of my must-know tips for anyone visiting Singapore.

I learned this the hard way when I accidentally sat at a “choped” table and got an earful from a local. Now, I always carry a small pack of tissues for this purpose—they are a travel bag essential. Plus, most hawker centers don’t provide napkins, they come in handy for that too.

7. Self-Service vs. Service

Wondering how to get your food at hawker centers? It varies from stall to stall. Some offer self-service, where you pick up your order yourself, while others will deliver it right to your table. Just check the sign at the stall or ask the vendor to be sure.

And remember, it’s important to clean up after yourself. Return your tray and dispose of your waste properly. Cleanliness is a big deal in Singapore, and hawker centers are no exception.

Bonus Tip: If they deliver your food, like at Newton Food Center, be sure to remember your table number. I always take a quick photo to avoid forgetting!

8. Safety and Hygiene First

Even though most hawker centers in Singapore have hand-washing stations, I always find it handy to carry some hand sanitizer. I use it before and after my meal to keep my hands clean, especially since you often eat with your hands.

Trust me, after a day enjoying all the rides at Universal Studios Singapore, it’s refreshing to clean up a bit before diving into your meal.

While Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, it’s still smart to keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places like hawker centers. Never leave your phone alone on the table!

9. Share Tables

Hawker centers in Singapore can get really crowded, making it tough to find a seat. Don’t hesitate to ask if you can join someone at their table – it’s completely normal!

I’ve had some fantastic conversations and made new friends this way. Once, I met another solo traveler, and we ended up exploring the city together. Another time, a local family shared their favorite free activities at Gardens by the Bay. You never know who you’ll meet!

10. Consider a Hawker Food Tour

Feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? A hawker food tour might be just what you need to get started. A guide will take you to the top hawker stalls, explain the local dishes, and share fascinating stories about Singapore’s food culture.

Although I usually love exploring on my own, I’ve heard fantastic things from friends who’ve taken these tours. Maybe I’ll give it a try on my next visit!

FAQs About Singapore Hawker Centers

What are hawker centers in Singapore?

Hawker centers in Singapore are bustling food courts filled with various hawker stalls serving delicious and affordable local dishes. These centers are a cornerstone of Singaporean culture, offering everything from satay to laksa, making them a must-visit for any food lover.

What time do hawker centers open?

Most hawker centers in Singapore open early in the morning, around 7 AM, and stay open until late at night, around 10 PM. However, opening hours can vary by stall, so it’s always a good idea to check online before heading out.

What to eat in Singapore hawker centers?

At Singapore hawker centers, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes to try, such as Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow, laksa, and chili crab. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample rojak, satay, and some delicious freshly squeezed sugar cane juice.

How much is a typical meal at a Singapore hawker center?

A typical meal at a Singapore hawker center usually costs between SGD 3 to SGD 5. For this price, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious dish, making it an incredibly affordable way to experience Singapore’s diverse and flavorful street food.

Why is the food at Singapore hawker centers so cheap?

The food at Singapore hawker centers is so cheap because the government provides subsidies to keep stall rental costs low. This allows vendors to offer high-quality, delicious meals at very affordable prices, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Are hawker centers only in Singapore?

While hawker centers are a significant part of Singapore’s culinary scene, similar food markets can also be found in Malaysia, Hong Kong, and other parts of Southeast Asia. However, Singapore’s hawker centers are particularly famous for their diversity, cleanliness, and the quality of food.

Read Next: Hong Kong vs Singapore: Which City Should You Visit in 2024?

Final Thoughts About Singapore Street Food

So, there you have it—my ultimate guide to Singapore’s hawker centers. I know Singapore can be super expensive, but with these hawker center tips, you’ll enjoy the best street food without breaking the bank.

Have you been to any of these hawker centers? What dishes did you love? Share your stories in the comments, and I’ll make sure to try them on my next trip! Can’t wait to hear from you all. Happy eating!

Learn More About Traveling To Singapore 

• Top 9 Capsule Hotels in Singapore for Budget Travelers
• No Uber in Singapore? Discover the Best Alternatives
• Hong Kong vs. Singapore: Which City Should You Choose in 2024?
• Ultimate Guide to Gardens by the Bay Light Show: Tips and Best Views
• Ultimate Universal Studios Singapore Tips: Avoid These Mistakes
• 15 Crucial Singapore Travel Tips for First-Timers
• How Long Does It Take to Fly to Singapore? Flight Times From Major Cities
• 23 Bizarre Singapore Laws You Need to Know Before Visiting
• 17 Best Rides at Universal Studios Singapore Ranked
• 15 Free Activities in Gardens by the Bay You Can’t Miss
• Winter in Singapore: What to Expect and How to Prepare

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