Tiong Bahru may be famous for its photogenic Art Deco flats, trendy cafés and old-school neighbourhood charm, but no visit here feels complete without heading upstairs to Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre.
Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore 168898
From early morning onwards, the food centre comes alive with the sound of sizzling woks, chopping boards and stallholders calling out order numbers. Tables quickly fill with residents enjoying breakfast, office workers hunting for lunch and visitors eager to taste some of the neighbourhood’s best-known hawker dishes.
The selection here is wonderfully varied. You could begin your morning with traditional fishball noodles, wanton mee or vegetarian bee hoon, return for a comforting plate of Hainanese curry rice, and still find room later for roast meats, fish soup or freshly steamed pau.
Some stalls have served generations of customers, while newer names bring burgers and other modern choices into the mix. Queues are common, especially during lunchtime and on weekends, but they usually move steadily.
Come hungry, bring some cash, and prepare to explore these 15 must-try hawker stalls at Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre.
1. Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee（鸿兴炒苏东虾面）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-01, Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodle
Operating Hours: 10.30am – 2.30pm
Closed: Sunday and Monday
A queue often forms in front of this no-frills stall, but the line moves surprisingly quickly as plate after plate of noodles leaves the wok.
Yellow noodles and thick bee hoon are fried over high heat until they absorb the seafood stock and develop a noticeable smoky aroma. Each serving comes with prawns, slices of squid and fish cake, creating a satisfying combination of springy noodles and tender seafood.
The overall seasoning leans towards the lighter side, making this a suitable choice for diners who do not enjoy excessively rich or salty Hokkien mee. Those who prefer stronger flavours should mix in the accompanying chilli, which contributes spice and savoury depth without overwhelming the dish.
A squeeze of calamansi adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the noodles. There are three portion sizes available at approximately $5, $6 and $7. Do take note that payment is by cash only.
2. Hui Ji Fishball Noodles & Yong Tau Foo（辉记鱼圆面）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-44, Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Fishball Noodles
Operating Hours: 5.30am – 2.30pm
Closed: Wednesday
At first glance, this may look like a straightforward bowl of Teochew fishball noodles, but the magic lies in the sauce mixture coating every strand.
The dry version is tossed with chilli, vinegar, fragrant oil and crispy bits of pork lard. Choose kway teow and you will get smooth rice noodles that slide easily between the chopsticks, carrying plenty of savoury flavour with every mouthful.
The portion is generous, with fishballs, fish dumplings, fish cake wrapped in bean curd skin, sliced fish cake and pieces of pork. While the fishballs are firmer and less fish-forward than some handmade versions, the remaining ingredients provide enough variety to keep the bowl interesting.
The soup is light, clear and pleasantly old-fashioned rather than intensely seasoned. Fried garlic contributes another layer of aroma, while the balanced chilli-and-vinegar combination brings back the familiar taste of traditional neighbourhood fishball noodles.
3. Chen Ming Ji Wanton Noodle（陈明记云吞面）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-79, Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Wanton Noodle
Operating Hours: 6.30am – 2pm
Closed: Wednesday
Springy egg noodles are the main attraction here, cooked until chewy and tossed in a dark sauce mixture that remains balanced rather than overly sweet or salty.
The chilli blends smoothly into the seasoning, while a touch of pork lard gives the noodles a glossy appearance and satisfying mouthfeel. Greens provide freshness, although diners with a serious appetite for char siew may wish there were a few more slices on the plate.
The accompanying soup is more than an afterthought. It carries a gentle sweetness enhanced by white radish, along with a light peppery fragrance. Each wanton is plump and filled with well-seasoned minced pork containing a good balance of lean meat and fat.
Those craving additional crunch can also order the fried wantons. Golden and crisp on the outside, they make an enjoyable side dish or snack to accompany the softer noodles and juicy boiled dumplings.
4. Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice（海南家乡咖喱饭）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-67/68, Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Curry Rice with Pork Chop
Operating Hours: 8.30am – 2.45pm
Closed: Thursday
Few meals look as gloriously messy as Hainanese curry rice. This curry took over 2 units of hawker stalls, probably business too good.
There is a wide selection displayed behind the glass, including crispy pork chop, curry chicken, braised meat, cabbage, curry vegetables and sambal sotong. The pork chop is particularly popular, with a crisp coating that retains some crunch even after being soaked in gravy.
The curry is rich, savoury and comforting rather than sharply spicy. Mixed with the darker braised sauce, it creates the familiar combination like 剪刀剪. The cabbage provides some sweetness and softness, while the sambal sotong adds a livelier burst of heat.
This is undeniably a heavy meal, especially when several dishes and generous amounts of gravy are involved. When you are craving something warm, homely and satisfying, it certainly hits the spot. Lunchtime queues can stretch to around 20 or 30 minutes, so arriving earlier is advisable.
5. Min Nan Pork Ribs and Prawn Noodles（闽南）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-31，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Prawn Noodles
Operating Hours: 8am – 2.30pm
Closed: Monday
The soup is robust and savoury, carrying enough prawn sweetness to remain memorable while still allowing the other ingredients to shine. Pork ribs are cooked until tender, making them easy to bite and enjoy without having to wrestle with tough meat.
For a fuller experience, order the dry pork ribs and prawn noodles. The noodles are tossed in a flavourful sauce, while a separate bowl of broth is served on the side. Mix in the spicy chilli gradually, as it brings both heat and an extra layer of depth.
The serving is filling, making it a dependable lunch for noodle lovers. Long-time customers often return for its familiar taste and consistency. Another welcome touch is that soup refills may be available, something that is becoming increasingly uncommon nowadays.
6. Tiong Bahru Lee Hong Kee Cantonese Roasted（中峇鲁李鸿记广东烧腊）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-60，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Assorted Roast Meat
Operating Hours: 10am – 7pm
Closed: Thursday
Fans of traditional Cantonese roast meats will appreciate the thick, satisfying cuts served here.
Unlike some brightly coloured versions that rely heavily on sweetness, the char siew has a more savoury roasted flavour. Its thicker slices provide a proper bite, allowing diners to enjoy both the caramelised exterior and tender meat within.
The roast duck is seasoned with noticeable Chinese five-spice flavours and a salty, aromatic marinade. The meat can cling closely to the bones, but those willing to put in a little effort will be rewarded with deeply seasoned mouthfuls. Roast pork is another strong choice, especially when the skin retains its crisp texture.
Rice and noodles are both fragrant options, but the gravy deserves special attention. Poured over the rice, it ties the meats and grains together with a savoury finish. Diners who enjoy extra richness can add the complimentary pork lard topping for a crunchy, indulgent touch.
7. H&H Curry Chicken Noodle（福海咖喱鸡米粉面）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-16，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Curry Chicken Noodles
Operating Hours: 10am – 4pm
Closed: Monday
This hearty bowl arrives with tender chicken, noodles, potatoes, fish cake and tofu puffs swimming in fragrant curry broth.
The gravy is creamy and coconut-forward without becoming unbearably thick. It is closer to a soupy curry, which makes it easier to finish than versions that feel more like a heavy sauce. The spice level is manageable for most diners, although adding chilli oil gives the bowl a more exciting kick.
The chicken is cooked separately before being added, helping it remain moist and tender. Tofu puffs act like little curry sponges, absorbing the flavourful broth and releasing it with every bite. Potatoes contribute a soft, comforting texture, while the noodles are cooked with enough firmness to avoid becoming mushy too quickly.
Portions are generous for the price, making this a satisfying option when you want something warm and filling. The combination may be simple, but each component works together to create a comforting bowl.
8. Tiong Bahru Pau and Snacks（中峇鲁包点）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-18，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Assorted Pau
Operating Hours: 8am – 10pm
Closed: Monday
Traditional steamed buns remain a convenient breakfast or afternoon snack, especially when they arrive warm, fluffy and generously filled.
The char siew pau is a popular choice, featuring soft white dough wrapped around a sweet and savoury barbecue pork filling. Compared with fillings heavily seasoned with dark soya sauce, the meat here tastes lighter, with a subtle hint of Chinese cooking wine.
Beyond steamed buns, the display also includes familiar dim sum favourites such as siew mai, carrot cake and lo mai gai. The siew mai offers a meaty bite with prawn adding extra texture, while the glutinous rice is a good option for anyone seeking something more substantial.
Long-time customers may notice that the buns are smaller than they were decades ago, but the traditional taste continues to bring people back. Pick up a few varieties to share, or order one as a quick snack while exploring the rest of the food centre.
9. Tiong Bahru Hainanese Boneless Chicken Rice（中峇鲁海南起骨鸡饭）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-82，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Chicken Rice
Operating Hours: 10am – 4pm
Closed: Monday
Previously recognised by the Michelin Guide, this is one of the food centre’s familiar destinations for a classic plate of Hainanese chicken rice.
Both steamed and roasted chicken are served in thick boneless pieces, giving diners a generous, meaty bite. The steamed version is moist and tender, complete with silky skin, while the roasted option offers a slightly deeper flavour.
The rice is fragrant, fluffy and properly separated rather than oily or clumped together. Try a spoonful on its own before adding chilli, ginger or dark soya sauce, as this makes it easier to appreciate the aroma of the grains.
Cucumber and preserved vegetables provide a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich chicken skin. A clear bowl of chicken soup completes the meal, while the chilli and ginger sauces are available for those who prefer a sharper finish.
Queues can appear during busy periods, but they generally move steadily, making this a reliable choice for a quick and familiar meal.
10. Ru Yi Vegetarian Food（如意香素食）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-01, #02-26，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Vegetarian Bee Hoon
Operating Hours: 10.30am – 2.30pm
Closed: Sunday and Monday
White vegetarian bee hoon may appear simple, but it offers a clean and comforting alternative to heavier fried noodles.
The rice vermicelli is served with a generous selection of vegetables and vegetarian ingredients, many of which are prepared by the stall rather than supplied in standard factory-made form. The vegetables are especially fresh, crisp and crunchy, providing a welcome contrast to the soft bee hoon.
On its own, the noodles may taste mild and can become slightly dry, particularly when ordered for takeaway. Adding gravy makes a noticeable difference, bringing moisture and savoury flavour to the entire plate. Takeaway customers can request for the gravy to be packed separately.
A few slices of green chilli help brighten the dish and prevent the flavours from feeling flat. At around $4 per packet, it may not be the cheapest vegetarian bee hoon available, but the portion and generous ingredients make it a satisfying meat-free lunch.
11. Zhong Yu Yuan Wei Wanton Noodle（忠于原味云吞面）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-30，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Wanton Noodles
Operating Hours: 7am – 1pm
Closed: Monday, Tuesday and Friday
Care and precision are evident in the way each plate is prepared, from the texture of the noodles to the arrangement of the roasted meat.
The thin egg noodles are cooked until springy and pleasantly firm, carrying a natural eggy fragrance. They are coated in a mild chilli sauce rather than an intensely fiery local-style mixture, allowing the flavour of the noodles and char siew to remain clear.
Those prepared to spend a little more can choose the premium char siew. The pork is roasted until aromatic, with alternating lean and fatty sections creating a juicy, satisfying chew. The fat melts slightly in the mouth, carrying the smoky and savoury flavours across the palate.
The wantons are plump and juicy, while the accompanying broth has a strong, comforting taste. Although the premium bowl costs around $8, diners who appreciate thicker and fattier char siew may find it worth the extra expense.
12. Lor Mee 178（卤面）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-23，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Lor Mee with Fried Shark Meat
Operating Hours: 7am – 1.45pm
Closed: Wednesday
This bowl begins with thick, flat yellow noodles covered in smooth, dark gravy that clings nicely without becoming excessively sticky.
The sauce is rich and savoury but not overwhelmingly starchy, allowing diners to finish the bowl without feeling weighed down. Sliced fish cake, braised pork and crispy fried shark nuggets are added generously, providing several different textures in every spoonful.
The fried nuggets are the most distinctive topping. Their crunchy batter contrasts with the soft noodles and velvety gravy, preventing the dish from becoming too uniform. They also soak up some sauce while retaining enough crispness to remain enjoyable.
Vinegar, chopped garlic and chilli are available for diners to adjust the flavour. Add them gradually until the gravy reaches your preferred balance of tanginess, heat and aroma.
At approximately $6 for a generous portion, this is a comforting traditional bowl for those who enjoy full-bodied gravy and unusual fried toppings.
13. Super Shiok Nasi Lemak
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-38，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Nasi Lemak
Operating Hours: 7am – 1pm
Closed: Monday
Nasi lemak does not need to be complicated when the rice is fluffy, the chicken is crisp and the sambal is good enough to keep your spoon moving.
Basmati rice is used here, resulting in long, separate grains and a lighter texture than the usual short-grain coconut rice. The coconut fragrance is relatively gentle, but the rice remains soft, clean-tasting and pleasant to eat.
The fried chicken wing is the highlight. Its skin is crunchy and well-seasoned, while the meat stays juicy, especially when served fresh from the fryer. Some sets also include fried fish, peanuts and anchovies.
The sambal finds a comfortable middle ground between sweet and spicy. It has enough heat to enliven the rice without overpowering the other ingredients. While the anchovies can occasionally be a little hard from frying, the peanuts contribute a welcome crunch.
With sets priced at around $3.50 to $3.80, this is a wallet-friendly breakfast or lunch.
14. Qing Yuan Fish Soup（庆源鱼汤）
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-49，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Fish Soup
Operating Hours: 9.30am – 7.30pm
Closed: Monday
Freshness is crucial when it comes to fish soup, and the generous slices served here taste clean, sweet and free from unpleasant fishiness.
The clear broth is light yet flavourful, allowing the natural sweetness of the batang fish to remain noticeable. Old ginger helps balance the seafood flavour, while tang oh adds a distinctive herbal freshness that makes the soup feel almost like a smaller fish head steamboat.
Those who prefer something richer can choose the milky-looking broth. Despite its creamy appearance, the soup is said to achieve its flavour without the addition of actual milk.
Fried fish and fried fish head are also available. Freshly cooked, the flesh remains tender and separates easily, while the exterior adds a crisp contrast. Dip the pieces into the stall’s tangy green chilli for a sharper, more appetising bite.
The plating is neat, portions are generous, and even the $6 serving can be surprisingly substantial.
15. Skirt & Dirt
Address: 30 Seng Poh Road, #02-66，Singapore 168898
Signature Dish: Chicken Burger and Fish Burger
Operating Hours: 11.30am – 8pm
Closed: Monday
After several bowls of traditional noodles and plates of rice, a freshly prepared burger offers a fun change of pace.
The fish burger is made to order, so customers receive a hot patty rather than one that has been sitting around. The bread is soft with margarine taste, while the sauce provides moisture and extra flavour without completely masking the fish.
The combination is straightforward but satisfying: a tender fish patty, pillowy bun and creamy sauce assembled into a convenient handheld meal. Chicken burgers are also available for diners who prefer poultry.
This is a useful option for younger visitors, burger lovers or anyone in the group who may not be craving another traditional hawker dish. Since each order is prepared fresh, there may be a short wait, but the result is warmer and more enjoyable.
It is also one of the later-closing stalls on this list, making it suitable for an early dinner when many of the breakfast and lunchtime favourites have already packed up.
A Food Centre Worth Returning To
Tiong Bahru Market & Food Centre offers much more than a convenient place to eat. It brings together old-school recipes, familiar neighbourhood flavours and newer food choices under one roof.
Early risers can enjoy fishball noodles, nasi lemak or wanton mee, while the lunchtime crowd can feast on curry rice, roast meats, prawn noodles and chicken rice. Those visiting later in the day can still find fish soup, steamed buns and freshly prepared burgers.
As several stalls close after lunch or take different rest days, it is best to check their operating schedules before making a special trip. Arriving before the peak lunch period will also give you a better chance of securing a table without circling the food centre several times.
