Forget fancy restaurants! In Singapore, the hottest dining scene happens at hawker centres, an open-air food court bursting with flavour and fun. But what makes hawker food in Singapore special? Imagine a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences all thrown into a wok, creating unique dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and fiery chilli crab.

Hawkers, often family-run stalls, pour their passion into each plate, passing down secret recipes for generations. It's not just the food, though. Hawker centres are vibrant social hubs, buzzing with friendly chatter and ice-clinking in sugarcane drinks. People from all walks of life gather here, united by their love for delicious, affordable eats.

So, skip the Michelin stars and dive into the real Singapore, one delicious bite at a time, at these best hawker food joints in Singapore!

While taste is subjective, these 10 dishes represent the richness of Singaporean cuisine and offer something for every palate. Let’s take a look at the best hawker food in Singapore below!

Poached to silky perfection, the chicken glistens with a light sheen, its delicate skin hinting at the juicy, tender meat. Fragrant rice, cooked in rich chicken broth infused with pandan leaves and aromatics, forms the perfect base of Hainanese Chicken Rice that you can try on at Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken.

These are the essential condiments: a light soy sauce for subtle seasoning, a fiery chilli sauce for a punch of heat, and a fragrant ginger dipping sauce for added complexity. Ready to fuel your adventurous soul after savouring a delightful meal at the best hawker food in Singapore? Why don’t you go to Marina Bay Sands SkyPark afterwards?

Address: Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, 1 Kadayanallur St, #01-10/11 Maxwell Food Centre, Singapore 069184

Satay typically features marinated chicken, beef, or mutton skewered on bamboo sticks and grilled over charcoal. The smoky char mingles with the unique flavours of each marinade, creating a symphony of taste.

But the real star is the peanut sauce, a creamy concoction of peanuts, spices, and sometimes pineapple for a touch of sweetness. Each hawker stall has its secret recipe, adding a personal touch to this beloved dish, including Lau Pat Sat. With a full stomach, you are ready to refill your artistic touch by visiting the National Gallery of Singapore.

Address: Lau Pa Sat, Boon Tat St, Singapore

The heart of laksa lies in its broth, a creamy and spicy concoction usually built on coconut milk, chilies, and a unique blend of spices. Laksa comes in two main variations: Katong Laksa boasts and Assam Laksa.

Both you can try at 328 Katong Laksa and are loaded with thick rice noodles, seafood like prawns and cockles, tofu puffs, and fresh herbs, creating a textural and flavorful experience. Stomach is happy, it’s time to create beautiful memories in Katong Antique House.

Address: 328 Katong Laksa, 51 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428770

Flat rice noodles stir-fried with egg, seafood, and dark soy sauce, this dish showcases the "wok hei" (breath of the wok) technique. The authentic char kway teow you can try at No. 18 Zion Road Fried Kway Teow. Nearby, explore the National Museum of Singapore to learn Singapore's history and experience the exhibitions.

Address: No. 18 Zion Road Fried Kway Teow, 70 Zion Rd, #01-17 Zion Riverside Food Centre, Singapore 247792

This crispy flatbread at Mustafa Centre has various savoury fillings like egg, cheese, or curry. But one thing for sure, this dish surely can tantalise your buds and fill your stomach!

After indulging, delve into the vibrant atmosphere of Little India, with its colourful textiles and bustling markets. Wishing to be more joyful after shopping? Start your journey on Singapore Flyer, don’t forget to take stunning pictures from above!

Address: Mustafa Centre, 145 Syed Alwi Rd, Mustafa Centre, Singapore 207704

A comforting pork rib soup simmered in herbs and spices, perfect for a hearty meal at Song Fa Bak Kut Teh you can try on. After warming your soul, explore Chinatown in Singapore, a historical gem with ornate temples and charming shophouses.

Address: Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, 176 Orchard Rd, #02-29/30, Singapore 238843

Nasi lemak, literally translated to "fatty rice," is more than just a dish in Singapore; it's a national treasure, a cultural icon, and a soul-satisfying culinary experience. Fragrant coconut rice served with various accompaniments like fried chicken, anchovies, and egg, a quintessential local breakfast.

The most popular best hawker food in Singapore you can visit to indulge in the deliciousness of nasi lemak is Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak. Afterwards, take a break from the buzzling city and meet your favourite animals in Singapore Zoo.

Address: Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak, 603 Ang Mo Kio Ave 5, Block 603, Singapore 560603

Imagine a thin, paper-like crepe, almost translucent, enveloping a symphony of textures and tastes. Shredded cucumber and jicama add a satisfying crunch, while the soft sweetness of julienned carrot and turnip balances the savoury punch of shredded pork or shrimp.

A sprinkle of peanuts adds a delightful nuttiness, while the creamy texture of scrambled eggs ties everything together. After grabbing a bite, visit the adrenaline-pumping Bedok Reservoir and play with the water.

Address: Popiah, 87 Bedok North Street 4, Singapore 460087

Don't be fooled by the name! This savoury dish of fried radish cake with eggs and preserved vegetables is a textural delight. Continue your culinary journey at Tekka Centre, a wet market offering fresh produce and local delights. After spoiling your sweet tooth, take a gentle sport at DB Golf Center.

Address: Song Han Carrot Cake, 137 Tampines St. 11, #01-07, Singapore 522137

Beat the heat with this colourful shaved ice dessert topped with sweet ingredients like red beans, grass jelly, and jellied fruits. Enjoy it from street vendors or stalls like Amoy Street Food Center. Afterwards, cool off further with a walk along the scenic Singapore River.

Address: 7 Maxwell Rd, Singapore 069111

With its diverse and delicious hawker scene, Singapore is a paradise for food lovers. From the melt-in-your-mouth Hainanese chicken rice to the smoky skewers of satay and the fiery depths of laksa, each bite is an adventure waiting to be savoured. But with countless stalls tempting your taste buds, choosing where to begin can be overwhelming.

Don't let the abundance daunt you! Embrace the spirit of discovery with these best hawker food in Singapore. Ready to tantalise your taste buds and immerse yourself in Singapore's vibrant culture? Open the Traveloka app today and book your flight! Your best hawker food in Singapore adventure awaits!