In this Singapore food and travel guide, we’re making our way to Little India and Chinatown to share hidden food in Singapore gems we discovered along the way! These neighborhoods define the city’s rich culinary landscape and food culture.
Make sure to check our blog post about the perfect 24 hours in Singapore and the Ultimate Singapore Travel Guide.
Haji Lane
First, we’ll explore popular sites and attractions along the way such as Haji Lane‘s vibrant streets and the architectural masterpiece, of Sultan Mosque.
On route to Little India, we stopped by Haji Lane! Haji Lane is a vibrant, colorful laneway of boutique shops, quaint cafes, and artistic murals. We loved the artistic bohemian vibe of the street art walking down the street. There are many food options from Middle Eastern delicacies to fusion dishes!
Sultan Mosque
You can walk from Haji Lane to Sultan Mosque which embodies centuries of Singaporean heritage with its stunning architecture and rich history. While we only admired the beautiful mosque from the exterior, you can tour the inside of the building.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 2 p.m.– 4 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.- 4 p.m.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple stands as a magnificent testament to Singapore’s rich cultural heritage.
With the temple’s intricate details and housing a sacred relic, this spiritual haven offers visitors a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into the city’s spiritual traditions.
Make sure you wear appropriate clothing and cover your knees or you cannot enter the temple.
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is approximately 3.5 to 4 kilometers away from Little India in Singapore.
Operating Hours:
Everyday 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Note: If you’re visiting Singapore I highly recommend getting an attractions pass because you can bundle multiple activities and save big on attractions!
Hidden Food Gems in Little India & Chinatown Singapore
1. Food in Singapore | Taste of Little India
Now let’s eat some food in Singapore! We came across this busy shop called Mithai Mandir located in Little India. You have to try the specialties starting with Pani Puri!
Location: 8 Serangoon Road, Little India Arcade, #01-68, Singapore 217959
Pani Puri is essentially crispy puris filled with spicy, tangy, and minty water, along with chickpeas, potatoes, and tamarind chutney!
6 pieces cost us 5 SGD
Gulab Jamun, these soft, golden-brown dumplings are made from milk solids, and deep-fried until they turn a rich, caramel hue. There is so much cultural diversity when it comes to food in Singapore here we’re getting a delicious taste of India!
When it comes to savoring authentic Indian food in Singapore, Little India emerges as an aromatic haven, offering an enticing array of dishes that tantalize the taste buds. From fragrant biryanis to savory curries and delectable dosas, the streets are alive with the essence of Indian culinary traditions.
As you navigate the bustling lanes, the aroma of spices envelopes you, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond mere sustenance. Little India stands as a testament to the rich diversity of food in Singapore, with every dish narrating a story of cultural fusion and gastronomic delight.
2. The Best Chapati & Keema | Food in Singapore
Azmi Restaurant in Little India is a culinary gem in Singapore. It is known for the chapati, thin and crispy flatbread also known as Roti. The chapati pairs perfectly with flavorful Keema, a spiced minced lamb meat dish with marsala flavors!
Location: 168 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218051
A very good quality meal for only 6 SGD which is less than $5 USD.
3. Pure Pandan (Chinatown) | Food in Singapore
When venturing through the diverse culinary landscape of food in Singapore, make a discreet stop at Pure Pandan, nestled in the heart of Chinatown. Easily identifiable by its vivid neon green signage, this hidden treasure promises a delightful rendezvous with sweetness. The highlight? Their pandan cake swiss rolls, deliver an extraordinary blend of flavors and textures.
Immerse yourself in the distinctive essence of Pure Pandan for an unmatched culinary escapade within the rich mosaic of food in Singapore.
We ordered the Pandan Kaya Swiss Roll, which is a moist pandan cake filled with creamy and rich pandan kaya filling. Kaya is essentially a coconut jam cream!
Location: 264 South Bridge Rd, Singapore 058813
Then a 1 minute walk from Pure Pandan don’t forget to visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
Our Thoughts
Singapore’s culinary scene is diverse in many flavors from around the world, with hidden gems like Azmi Restaurant, Mithai Mandir, and Pure Pandan. These restaurants showcase the city’s rich diversity and provide affordable meal options while visiting Singapore. We loved that while Singapore is known to be an expensive country to travel to, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy delicious food in Singapore!
