There are all kinds of travellers out there, each with their quirks and bucket lists. The selfie-snapping Instagram influencers are chasing that perfect Gardens by the Bay shot, history lovers retracing colonial footprints, hopeless romantics strolling hand in hand under the glowing Supertrees, and nature enthusiasts who vanish into the green trails of Bukit Timah. And then there are people like me, the forever-hungry foodies, armed with a bottomless appetite and a Google Maps collection full of hawker stalls. This island city-state is a flavour-packed melting pot where Indian, Chinese, Malay, and Peranakan influences clash in the best way possible.

Yes, I know you’ve probably already heard of the iconic chilli crab, the comforting Hainanese chicken rice (known to be the national dish), and the toasty sweetness of kaya toast. But trust me, those are just the appetisers. Singapore’s street food scene is a full-blown culinary adventure, stretching from Michelin-starred hawker centres to sizzling night markets where every dish has a story.

To put it simply, Singapore doesn’t just welcome you, it feeds you, inspires you, and maybe even spoils you a little. I’ve put together a list of the best street foods you need to try while you’re here. So come hungry, stay curious, and whatever you do, don’t be afraid to try new things. 

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What are the must-try Street Foods in Singapore?

The list could honestly go on forever if I started naming every incredible dish you can try in Singapore, because let’s face it, this place is a food lover’s dream come true. But to keep things digestible, I’ve narrowed it down to the must-try street foods you can’t miss while in Singapore. And of course, with all that eating, you’ll need something to cool down your taste buds. So I’m also throwing in a few local beverages and coolers that are perfect for washing it all down and surviving the island’s warm, tropical vibes. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

• Hainanese Chicken Rice

• Laksa 

• Chilli Crab

• Char Kway Teow

• Nasi Lemak

• Kaya Toast

• Roti Prata

• Hokkien Mee

Beverages

• Kopi (Coffee)

• Chendol

• Singapore Sling (national drink)

• Milo Dinosaur

• Bandung

• Barley Water

• Teh Tarik

Dessert

• Yam Paste (Orh Nee)

• Cold Cheng Tng

• Avocado Sago

• Durian with Purple Rice and Coconut Cream

• Kueh

• Mango Sago

Hainanese Chicken Rice (海南鸡饭)

When you're in Singapore, you'll think that Hainanese Chicken Rice is a highly hyped dish sold almost at every street-side stall. But you'll only know that it's worth the hype when you try it. The first time I saw it, it was poached chicken, a scoop of rice, a few cucumber slices, and chilli on the side. I didn’t quite get the hype. But then I tasted it, and my taste buds were having a blast.

The chicken is gently poached in a seasoned broth, keeping it melt-in-the-mouth tender, then plunged into ice water to give the skin that signature smooth, almost silky texture. It’s the kind of technique that speaks to generations of culinary wisdom. But what I loved the most was the rice. Cooked in that same rich broth with garlic, ginger, and pandan, every grain is fragrant, buttery, and bursting with umami. Most people assume the chicken is the hero here, but any seasoned traveller will tell you that this dish is all about the rice.

It’s a comfort food in Singapore. And if you’re like me, someone who’s careful about what you eat while travelling, this one is a safe, soulful, and downright delicious pick. One bite, and you’ll know exactly why it’s a national obsession.

Where to Eat?
You’ll find Hainanese Chicken Rice just about everywhere in Singapore. From humble hawker stalls to upscale food courts. For an authentic local experience, head to the Chinatown Complex Food Centre or Maxwell Food Centre, where iconic stalls like Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice have earned international praise (including praise from Anthony Bourdain, the famous American celebrity chef).

How Much Does It Cost?
At a hawker stall, expect to pay around SGD$3 to SGD$5 for a generous serving. At a Michelin-starred spot or an air-conditioned food court, prices can range from SGD 6 to SGD 8, but are still incredibly affordable for the quality.

Best Accompanied With?
Cool down with a refreshing glass of iced lime juice, sugarcane juice, or the local favourite barley water. These drinks are light, slightly sweet, and perfect for balancing the savoury depth of the dish.

Laksa (叻沙)

The first time I tried Laksa in Singapore, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had heard people talk about it, calling it a must-try dish, but I didn’t know what made it so special. Then I took my first bite, and I understood why everyone loves it.

The broth was warm and creamy with a light kick of spice. It had a rich coconut flavour, mixed with hints of lemongrass and dried shrimp that gave it a nice depth. Inside the bowl were thick rice noodles, fish cakes, prawns, boiled egg, and sometimes cockles, all soaked in that tasty broth.

What I liked most was how comforting and filling it was. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down and enjoy every bite. Laksa is more than just a popular street food; it brings together different flavours from Chinese and Malay cooking and shows what Singapore’s food culture is all about. If you're visiting, it's one of those local dishes you need to try.

Where to Eat?

Laksa is widely available at hawker centres across Singapore, but for an authentic taste, head to 328 Katong Laksa for the famous spoon-only style, or try Sungei Road Laksa, known for its traditional charcoal-cooked broth. Whether you're in Chinatown, Geylang, or Tiong Bahru, you're never far from a great bowl of laksa.

How Much Does It Cost?
Expect to pay SGD 4 to SGD 6 at hawker stalls, and slightly more at speciality shops or cafes.

Best Accompanied With?
Pair it with a glass of iced calamansi juice or teh tarik (pulled tea). These cool, slightly tangy drinks help cut through the richness of the broth, keeping your palate refreshed.

Chilli Crab (辣椒螃蟹)

One of the most memorable meals I had in Singapore was Chilli Crab. I still remember sitting at a busy seafood place, cracking open a giant crab while the sweet and spicy sauce got everywhere. The flavours were bold but balanced. Just enough heat to keep it interesting, but nothing too intense. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together over a shared table and a pile of napkins.

Where to Eat?
Chilli Crab is a star at many seafood restaurants. Top picks include Jumbo Seafood (East Coast), No Signboard Seafood, and Long Beach Seafood, where the crab is fresh, the sauce is generous, and bibs are a must.

How Much Does It Cost?
Expect to pay SGD 50–80, depending on the crab size and restaurant. It’s a dish made for sharing.

Best Accompanied With?
Don’t forget the mantou (fried buns), they’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of that addictive sauce. Pair it with a cold lime juice or iced barley to cool things down.

Char Kway Teow ( 炒粿條)

I thought I was ordering noodles. Turns out, Char Kway Teow is so much more. It’s smoky, saucy, a little sweet, a little savoury, and before I knew it, I had cleaned the plate. Between the lap cheong, cockles, and the perfectly slippery noodles, every bite felt like a cheat day (in the best way). Warning: You may need a nap after.

I’ve seen fancy versions of Char Kway Teow with crab meat and all the premium bells and whistles, but honestly, give me the greasy, wok-tossed, hawker centre version any day.

Where to Eat?
Char Kway Teow is a staple at hawker centres like Outram Park Fried Kway Teow Mee, Hill Street Char Kway Teow, and Food Republic at Wisma Atria. It’s a must-try, especially if you want to eat like a local.

How Much Does It Cost?

 A hearty plate typically costs around SGD 4–6, though upscale versions with crab meat or prawns may go up to SGD 10–15.

Best Accompanied With?
Pair it with a glass of iced lemon tea or sugarcane juice to balance the richness and cleanse your palate between bites.

Nasi Lemak (椰浆饭)

I had Nasi Lemak for breakfast one morning, thinking it’d be a light start to the day. Wrong. It was hearty, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Nasi Lemak is a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, making it rich, aromatic, and addictive (trust me when I say it smells delicious). But what surprised me was how everything worked together. The saltiness of the ikan bilis, the crunch from the peanuts, the heat from the sambal, and the richness of the fried chicken. This dish is enjoyed across breakfast, lunch, or dinner and honestly, any time in between.

Where to Eat?
Try it at Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak in Adam Road Food Centre or The Coconut Club for an upscale twist.

How Much Does It Cost?
Around SGD 3–5 at hawker stalls; up to SGD 12–15 at restaurants.

Best Accompanied With:
A cup of iced Milo or teh tarik (pulled tea) makes it the ultimate local breakfast combo.

Kaya Toast (咖椰吐司)

If there’s one thing that screams a classic Singaporean breakfast, it’s Kaya Toast. The first time I tried it, I didn’t expect much. It’s just toast, right? But one bite and you will be hooked. It’s simple, comforting, and oddly addictive.

Kaya Toast is made with slices of crispy, charcoal-grilled bread, slathered with kaya, a sweet, creamy spread made from coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and pandan and finished off with a thick slab of cold butter. The combination of warm toast, melted butter, and sweet coconut jam is truly magical.

It’s usually served as a set breakfast, with soft-boiled eggs on the side (seasoned with a splash of soy sauce and white pepper), and a hot cup of kopi (local coffee) or teh tarik (pulled tea). I’d call it the perfect morning starter.

Where to Eat?
Head to iconic chains like Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Toast Box, or Killiney Kopitiam.

How Much Does It Cost?
Typically, SGD 2–4 for a set with toast, eggs, and coffee or tea.

Best Accompanied With:
Always paired with a strong cup of kopi (local coffee) or teh (tea).

Roti Prata (印度煎饼)

When I’m in Singapore and craving something crispy, flaky, and satisfying, I always go for Roti Prata. It’s a local favourite that I can eat any time of the day, breakfast, supper, or whenever the mood strikes. It’s a pan-fried Indian flatbread, cooked on a hot griddle till it’s golden and crisp on the outside, yet soft and chewy inside.

I usually order mine with egg or cheese, but there are all kinds, sweet versions with banana or chocolate, or savoury ones with mushrooms or onion. The best part? It’s always served with a side of fiery curry for dipping. No cutlery needed! Just tear, dip, and enjoy.

Where to Eat?
Popular spots include Springleaf Prata Place, Mr. and Mrs. Mohgan’s Super Crispy Prata, and Casuarina Curry.

How Much Does It Cost?
SGD 1.50–3 for basic options; a few dollars more for premium fillings.

Best Accompanied With:
A hot cup of teh tarik or a refreshing iced Milo.

Hokkien Mee (福建面)

I stumbled upon Hokkien Mee by accident while wandering through a hawker centre in the late afternoon. The stall didn’t look particularly special, but the queue was long, and in Singapore, that usually means one thing. It’s good. I ordered a plate, sat down, and took my first bite. What hit me first was the depth of flavour. The noodles were soaked in a rich, slightly briny seafood broth that was incredibly comforting. The prawns were fresh, the squid was tender, and everything was tied together with a hint of wok smoke. It felt like something you’d crave on a rainy day, or after a long flight, the kind of dish that tastes like home, even if you’ve never had it before.

Where to Eat?
Check out Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee at Old Airport Road or Geylang Lorong 29 Fried Hokkien Mee for some of the best in town.

How Much Does It Cost?
Typically SGD 4–6, depending on the portion and location.

Best Accompanied With:
A chilled lime juice or barley drink goes perfectly with the savoury seafood flavours.

What Are Some Beverages You Should Try in Singapore?

While the food scene in Singapore gets a lot of well-deserved attention, the local beverages are just as much a part of the experience. Whether you're looking to cool down from the heat, pair something perfectly with your hawker meal, or sip on something uniquely Singaporean, there’s a drink for every craving.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, knowing what to pair with what can enhance your dining experience. It also helps to know the average cost so that you can order like a true local (and not look completely bewildered at the stall). Here are some must-try beverages:

Kopi (Coffee)

Kopi is Singapore’s local coffee, brewed from robusta beans roasted with sugar and margarine for a bold, slightly sweet flavour; it comes in variations like kopi-o (black), kopi-c (with evaporated milk), and kopi siu dai (less sugar), and typically costs around SGD 1.20 to 2.50.

Chendol

Chendol is a rich dessert drink made with shaved ice, coconut milk, gula melaka (palm sugar), and green pandan jelly noodles, perfect for cooling down after a day of food hopping. It is typically priced between SGD 2.50 and 4.00.

Singapore Sling

The Singapore Sling is a vibrant, gin-based cocktail created at Raffles Hotel, blending cherry liqueur, Benedictine, pineapple juice, and lime juice. This national drink is best enjoyed before dinner or during a celebration, and costs around SGD 20 to SGD 30.

Milo Dinosaur

Milo Dinosaur is a fun, nostalgic drink featuring iced Milo topped with a generous scoop of Milo powder. It's sweet, frothy, and best enjoyed with roti prata or on a hot day, for around SGD 2.50 to 3.50.

Bandung 

Bandung is a bright pink rose syrup drink mixed with evaporated milk, commonly found at hawker stalls and festive gatherings, best paired with spicy or fried food, and usually costs SGD 1.50 to 2.50.

Barley Water

Barley Water is a light, soothing drink made by boiling barley grains, sometimes with the addition of lemon. It's ideal after a heavy meal and typically costs around SGD 1.20 to SGD 2.00.

Teh Tarik (Pulled Tea)

Teh Tarik is made by pulling black tea and condensed milk between cups to create a frothy top. It is creamy, strong, and best enjoyed with prata or on its own, for about SGD 1.50 to SGD 2.50.

What are Some Desserts to Try on the Streets of Singapore?

I’ll be honest, I’m not someone with a huge sweet tooth. I usually lean more toward savoury snacks and spicy food. But Singapore's street desserts? That’s a whole different story. They're not just sweet, they’re textured, layered, refreshing, and full of surprises. I've curated a list for you, including the most popular desserts people are raving about. 

Yam Paste (Orh Nee)

warm, velvety dessert made with mashed yams and topped with ginkgo nuts and a touch of coconut milk. It’s rich, slightly nutty, and deeply comforting, perfect after a heavy meal. You’ll usually find it at around SGD 3.50 to 5.00, depending on the stall.

Cold Cheng Tng

This refreshing dessert soup is served chilled and loaded with lotus seeds, longans, barley, and white fungus in a light syrup. Ideal for hot afternoons, it’s light on sweetness and your wallet, usually priced between SGD 2.00 and 3.00.

Avocado Sago

Creamy, cooling, and naturally rich, avocado sago blends ripe avocado with chilled milk and chewy sago pearls. It’s a smooth and satisfying dessert that typically costs about SGD 3.50 to 5.50.

Durian with Purple Rice and Coconut Cream

For adventurous eaters, this unique combo of black glutinous rice, fresh durian, and rich coconut cream is a must-try. Expect bold flavours and a price tag of around SGD 4.00 to 6.00.

Kueh

These colourful, bite-sized traditional cakes come in various flavours and textures, often made from pandan, coconut, and glutinous rice. Each piece usually costs SGD 0.80 to 1.50, making them perfect for sampling a little bit of everything.

Mango Sago

Tropical favourite, mango sago features chunks of fresh mango, sago pearls, and creamy coconut or evaporated milk. It’s light, fruity, and typically sold for SGD 3.00 to 4.50.

Now that you know the best street food to try in Singapore, I’d recommend approaching your culinary adventure with an open mind and an empty stomach. Beyond local favourites, the city also offers a wide range of Indian cuisine and plenty of vegetarian-friendly restaurants, making it easy for all types of travellers to find something they love. Whether you're in the mood for spice, comfort, or something unexpected, Singapore’s food scene has you covered. And don’t worry, we’ve also curated a guide to the best places to eat in Singapore, so you can skip the guesswork and go straight to the good stuff.