Singapore is famous for its world-class hawker culture, and while many visitors flock to places like Maxwell and Old Airport Road, Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre remains a hidden gem. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, this cozy hawker centre may be small, but it serves up some of the most satisfying and affordable local delights.
If you’re looking for authentic Singaporean flavors without the long queues, Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre is the perfect place. Let’s explore what makes this food haven so special and which dishes you absolutely must try.
Why Visit Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre?
An Underrated Food Paradise
Unlike some of the more commercialized hawker centres, Tanjong Rhu offers a more relaxed dining experience with shorter waiting times. The stalls here have built a loyal following, thanks to their consistently delicious food.
Affordable and High-Quality Food
Despite its growing popularity among foodies, the prices at Tanjong Rhu remain budget-friendly. You can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal for just a few dollars.
Convenient and Peaceful Location
Nestled in the Tanjong Rhu estate, this hawker centre is a great place to enjoy local food away from the usual hustle and bustle. The quieter setting makes it ideal for a casual meal with family or friends.
Must-Try Dishes at Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre
Tanjong Rhu Wanton Mee
One of the most famous stalls here, Tanjong Rhu Wanton Mee, serves up an outstanding plate of springy egg noodles tossed in a flavorful sauce, accompanied by juicy wantons and perfectly charred char siu (BBQ pork). The balance of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd favorite.
Hainanese Chicken Rice
No hawker experience is complete without trying a plate of Hainanese Chicken Rice. The version here features tender, succulent chicken paired with fragrant rice and a spicy-sour chili sauce that packs a punch.
Fried Oyster Omelette (Orh Luak)
Seafood lovers should not miss the Fried Oyster Omelette, a crispy and fluffy egg dish with fresh, juicy oysters. The stall at Tanjong Rhu is known for its perfect balance of crispiness and gooey texture, enhanced by a tangy chili dip.
Carrot Cake (Chai Tow Kway)
The hawker centre also has a stall serving up delicious fried carrot cake in both black (sweet) and white (savory) versions. This dish is made from radish cake, stir-fried with eggs, garlic, and preserved radish for a flavorful bite.
Laksa
A comforting bowl of laksa is a must-try for those who love bold, spicy flavors. The thick, coconut-infused broth, combined with rice noodles, prawns, and fish cakes, creates an incredibly satisfying meal.
Traditional Kaya Toast and Kopi
For breakfast lovers, the local coffee stall serves up the classic kaya toast with kopi (coffee). Crispy toasted bread, slathered with kaya (coconut jam) and butter, pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic Singapore-style coffee.
Tips for Visiting Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre
- Go early for the best selection – Some popular stalls sell out quickly, so it’s best to visit before lunchtime.
- Try multiple dishes – Since the prices are affordable, it’s easy to sample different foods from various stalls.
- Bring cash – Most stalls only accept cash payments, so have some small notes ready.
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere – Unlike crowded hawker centres, this one offers a more relaxed and comfortable dining experience.
How to Get to Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre
Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre is located within the Tanjong Rhu residential area, making it easily accessible by public transport or car.
- By MRT: The nearest station is Mountbatten MRT (Circle Line), followed by a short walk or bus ride.
- By Bus: Several buses stop near Tanjong Rhu, making it a convenient option for those coming from different parts of Singapore.
- By Car: Limited parking is available nearby, but the best option is to use public transport to avoid any hassle.
Conclusion
Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre may not be as famous as other hawker spots in Singapore, but it offers some of the best local delights at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re craving wanton mee, laksa, or traditional kaya toast, this hidden gem is worth the visit.
If you’re looking for a quiet, authentic hawker experience with top-notch food, Tanjong Rhu is the perfect place to explore. So the next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and indulge in some of Singapore’s best street food.
Would you like more hawker food recommendations? Stay tuned for more food guides and hidden gems across Singapore!
FAQs
What is Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre known for?
It is known for its delicious and affordable local food, including wanton mee, fried oyster omelette, Hainanese chicken rice, and laksa.
Is Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre crowded?
Compared to larger hawker centres, it is relatively quiet and offers a more peaceful dining experience, though some stalls can get busy during peak hours.
How much does a meal cost at Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre?
Most dishes range from $3 to $6, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, some stalls offer vegetarian dishes like vegetable fried rice, vegetarian bee hoon, and tofu-based dishes.
What are the best times to visit Tanjong Rhu Hawker Centre?
Mornings and early afternoons are the best times to visit, as some popular stalls may sell out by late afternoon.
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