Pack your bags and buckle up as we take you on an unforgettable road trip to Singapore—a land where the thrill of adventure and the tantalizing aroma of food await at every corner. Join our trio of friends as we embark on a culinary journey filled with mouth-watering delights and unforgettable experiences. Our mission is simple: to eat our way through the city, indulging in a never-ending feast of flavours, and discovering the hidden gems that make Singapore a true gastronomic paradise while dabbling in artsy and touristy places.
Day One: Hitting the Jugular
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we arrived in Singapore with eager palates, ready to dive into the city’s halal culinary scene. Our anticipation led us to the renowned Adam Road Food Court, where our first mission was to savour the much-talked-about Michelin-rated Selera Nasi Lemak. However, as fate would have it, the stall had closed its shutters for the day, leaving us with a twinge of disappointment. Undeterred, we embraced the culinary adventure that awaited us.
Turning our attention to other tantalizing options, we found solace in the vibrant atmosphere and aromatic air that enveloped the food court. A symphony of scents beckoned us towards a stall offering mouth-watering Singapore-style satay, with succulent red meat served alongside a fiery peanut sauce. We delighted in the interplay of smoky flavours and the luscious tenderness of the meat, revelling in each bite that transported us deeper into the heart of Singapore’s culinary heritage.
As the evening progressed, we ventured towards the mesmerizing Jewels of Changi, an architectural masterpiece intricately connected to Changi Terminal. The vibrant lights and bustling energy embraced us, infusing the night with an undeniable allure. We wandered through this captivating destination, admiring its dazzling displays and relishing in the electrifying atmosphere that surrounded us. A perfect interlude before retiring for the night, leaving us eagerly anticipating the flavours that awaited us on the following day.
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, we sought refuge in the charming Cube Hotel Chinatown, a haven of tranquillity amidst the vibrant streets. It’s warm embrace and attention to detail provided the ideal respite, rejuvenating us for the culinary discoveries that lay ahead.
Day Two: A Gastronomic Odyssey Unveiled
As dawn broke, we commenced our culinary adventure at the heart of Chinatown’s pulsating epicentre – the iconic Chinatown Hawker Centre. Guided by the sage recommendation of the Cube Hotel receptionist, we embarked on a journey of flavours at the Aziz Jafaar Malay stall. Delight washed over us as we savoured the tantalizing Lontong, Nasi Lemak, Mee Goreng, and Mee Rebus, each dish weaving a tale of culinary prowess. The Mee Rebus, with its harmonious blend of spices, was a delightful revelation, balancing the nuanced sweetness of the gravy with its robust depth of flavor. This serendipitous discovery, fueled by an online treasure trove on sethlui.com, epitomized the essence of Singapore’s culinary heritage.
Drawn by whispers of epicurean excellence, we bid adieu to Cube Hotel Chinatown and ventured towards Jalan Pisang, where the esteemed Hajah Maimunah awaited us. This culinary gem, adorned with the prestigious Michelin recognition, promised an extraordinary Nasi Padang experience. Stepping into the restaurant, we were greeted by an aromatic medley that stirred our senses. A delightful feast awaited us, featuring fragrant curries, succulent rendang, and delectable sambals. With each bite, we journeyed through the depths of Malay cuisine, savouring every nuance of flavour. This group of jury is split on the Michelin star bestowed upon Hajah Maimunah. It may have validated some their unwavering commitment to authenticity and culinary finesse. We found ourselves savouring a table full of dishes. From the melt-in-your-mouth beef rendang to the perfectly spiced terung balado (eggplant with sambal), each bite was an explosion of exquisite flavours, a testament to the culinary artistry on display. The tangy asam pedas mackerel fish, crispy fried paru (cow lung), and comforting sambal tempe ubi (tempe and potatoes) elevated our taste buds to new heights of delight. Only the stir-fried Kailan fell slightly short in terms of seasoning, but it didn’t diminish our overall satisfaction. Despite the long queues and bustling crowds, the effort was rewarded with a symphony of flavours that made every moment worthwhile.
After savouring the remarkable culinary delights at Hajah Maimunah, our culinary journey led us to the charming Cube Boutique at Kg Glam, where we eagerly checked in. As we entered, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie, for the Cube Hotel embraced a global community of backpackers. With its clean and airy ambiance, it offered a refreshing departure from the ordinary bed and breakfast accommodations. Plus, the added bonus of a simple breakfast provided a delightful start to our day. While the bathroom wasn’t ensuite, it didn’t detract from the overall experience. The hotel’s friendly and welcoming staff exemplified the warmth and hospitality of Singapore.
With our energy replenished, we ventured into the vibrant streets of Kg Glam, ready to immerse ourselves in the local culture. Our first stop was Bhai Sharbat, a beloved establishment renowned for its exquisite teh tarik. As we took our first sip of the frothy, aromatic concoction, we were transported to a realm of pure indulgence. The perfect balance of sweetness and richness awakened our senses and fuelled our exploration of the enchanting neighbourhood.
Roaming through Kg Glam, our curiosity led us to Wardah, one of the coolest indie bookstores in the area. Stepping inside, we were greeted by shelves adorned with an eclectic selection of books, ranging from literary classics to contemporary gems. The cosy and inviting atmosphere made it the perfect spot to browse through the pages of undiscovered literary treasures. As we perused the shelves, we couldn’t help but appreciate the passion and curation that went into creating such a haven for book enthusiasts. Wardah truly celebrated the power of literature in fostering a sense of community and intellectual curiosity.
Wardah Bookstore: A Literary Haven
Wardah Bookstore, nestled in the heart of Kg Glam, beckons avid readers and literary enthusiasts with its captivating ambiance. Upon entering, one is immediately embraced by the cosy and intimate atmosphere that envelops the space. The shelves, adorned with carefully curated books, create a sense of wonder and discovery. From the classics to contemporary works, the selection spans various genres, catering to a diverse range of reading preferences.
The charm of Wardah lies not only in its collection but also in its commitment to fostering a sense of community. It serves as a gathering place for book lovers to engage in meaningful discussions, attend book signings, and participate in literary events. The knowledgeable and passionate staff are always ready to recommend hidden gems and engage in literary conversations, creating an environment that nurtures the love of reading.
As we perused the shelves, we found ourselves drawn into the narratives of captivating authors, both familiar and new. Wardah Bookstore stood as a testament to the enduring power of books in connecting people and stimulating intellectual curiosity. It was a haven where literary enthusiasts could escape the bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling.
We allowed ourselves a moment of rest before setting off on the next leg of our adventure. Eager to immerse ourselves in Singapore’s vibrant arts and cultural scene, we made our way to the iconic Esplanade. With anticipation in the air, we secured front-row seats for the mesmerizing performance by Dayang Nurfaizah in her captivating Belagu 1 & II concert. The renditions of traditional Malay songs resonated deeply within us, reminding us of Singapore’s historical significance as a cultural capital of the Malay Realm. It was a testament to the city’s rich heritage and the enduring power of music to bridge cultural boundaries.
As the evening unfolded, our senses still buzzing from the concert, we embarked on a quick drive to McDonald’s Singapore for a late-night supper. Here, we indulged in one of Singapore’s unique culinary offerings—McWings. Crispy and flavourful, these delectable chicken wings were taken to another level when paired with the distinctive chili garlic sauce, a condiment that can only be found in Singapore. This late-night culinary escapade served as a delightful end to our day, a testament to the diverse gastronomic experiences that Singapore has to offer.
Day Three: Free and Easy Sunday
As our weekend adventure in Singapore drew to a close, we embraced the spirit of leisure and exploration on this free and easy Sunday. After bidding farewell to the Cube Hotel, we found ourselves yearning for another delightful culinary experience. Our destination was Rumah Makan Minang, nestled along Kandahar Street—a true gem in the heart of Singapore.
Rumah Makan Minang welcomed us with its humble charm and aromatic scents wafting from the kitchen. We eagerly delved into a mouthwatering array of dishes that comprised the customary fare of Ayam Kicap, Tauhu Telur Jakarta, Gulai Tunjang, and Paru Balado. Each bite was a celebration of Minang cuisine, with flavors that transported us to the heart of Indonesia. Satiated and content, we bid farewell to Rumah Makan Minang, grateful for the opportunity to indulge in this culinary delight. We think they too deserve a Michelin rating. Hehe.
Seeking a little pick-me-up before our journey home, we embarked on a quick drive to Takashimaya, where a coffee haven awaited us—Bacha Coffee. This renowned coffee establishment lured us in with its promise of exceptional brews and exquisite flavours. With high expectations, we sampled two different coffees and a rich chocolate drink. While the flavours were pleasant, we couldn’t help but notice that the extravagant packaging seemed more suited for the discerning tea connoisseur. The steep price of SGD8.5 for a cup of Americano left us slightly taken aback, especially for avid coffee enthusiasts who are accustomed to a different price point. Additionally, the vanilla-flavoured whipped cream offered as an accompaniment didn’t quite measure up to the usual standard of a perfectly crafted latte. Nonetheless, the experience allowed us to savour the unique nuances of Bacha Coffee, even if it didn’t fully meet our lofty coffee expectations.
As we prepared to depart Singapore, we made a final pit stop along Mackenzie Road. Our mission was simple—to grab some delectable fish ball sticks and crispy karipap from the legendary Old Chang Kee. With their time-honoured recipe and commitment to quality, Old Chang Kee has become synonymous with satisfying cravings for these beloved snacks. With our takeaway treats in hand, we bid farewell to this culinary institution, cherishing the memories we had made and the flavours that had delighted our taste buds.
Our hearts were filled with the echoes of Singapore—a city that had offered us a tapestry of arts, culture, and culinary delights. From the bustling hawker centres to the hidden gastronomic gems, each bite had told a story, each experience had left an indelible mark. Singapore had proved itself to be a city that celebrates the beauty of diversity and embraces the fusion of cultures, creating a unique tapestry that is a delight to explore. We departed with a promise to return, eager to unravel more of the city’s hidden treasures and savour the flavours that await us.
By Shammaredza Sharoff (shammaredza@gmail.com)
