Clementi has quietly established itself as one of Singapore’s most diverse food destinations, offering everything from budget-friendly hawker fare to trendy cafes. Located just minutes from Clementi MRT Station, these eateries are highly accessible and cater to every palate. Here’s an in-depth look at the area’s culinary landscape.
The Budget Champions: Under $10
Xin Peng La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Hidden inside a bustling kopitiam just outside the modern sprawl of Clementi Mall, there lies an unassuming stall that punches remarkably above its weight class, offering high-quality Shanghainese cuisine that belies its modest surroundings. The star attraction, and the primary draw for many regulars, is undoubtedly their Xiao Long Bao. Available at an astonishing price of just $5 for a serving of six, these soup dumplings defy their low cost by delivering genuine authenticity; each piece is meticulously prepared, featuring a tender, well-seasoned pork filling that yields instantaneously, bursting on the palate with a stream of hot, savory broth. This commitment to value is echoed in their equally impressive Chicken Chop Noodles, also surprisingly priced at $5. This dish is not merely cheap; it represents exceptional value, offering a deeply satisfying and generous bowl brimming with tender, marinated chicken pieces, earthy black fungus, and crisp, fresh vegetables that blend harmoniously. Together, these dishes create a compelling case for why this modest eatery maintains its steady following, establishing itself as the essential destination for budget-conscious diners seeking to indulge in authentic, high-quality Shanghainese flavors without having to pay the usual premium price tag.
Hidden inside a kopitiam right outside Clementi Mall, this unassuming stall punches well above its weight. The star attraction is their Xiao Long Bao at just $5 for six pieces—remarkably affordable for soup dumplings that deliver on both flavor and juiciness. The pork filling is well-seasoned, and each dumpling bursts with savory broth.
Their Chicken Chop Noodles, also priced at $5, represents exceptional value. You receive a generous bowl brimming with tender chicken pieces, black fungus, and fresh vegetables. The ingredients work harmoniously together, creating a satisfying meal that explains why regulars keep returning.
Best for: Budget-conscious diners seeking authentic Shanghainese flavors without the premium price tag.
O.BBa Jjajang Express
Don’t let the unassuming kopitiam setting of O.BBa Jjajang Express mislead you; this culinary gem is a haven for authentic Korean cuisine, making beloved dishes accessible to all without compromising on quality or flavour. Standing out with its incredible value, their signature Jjajangmyeon, priced at an unbeatable $7.90, delivers a deeply satisfying bowl of proper Korean black bean noodles coated in a rich, savory sauce that transports you straight to Seoul. For those craving a fiery kick, the Jjampong at $10.50 is an absolute must-try, arriving generously loaded with fresh mussels and prawns swimming in a spicy seafood broth that confidently rivals offerings from many pricier, standalone Korean restaurants. Even lighter bites impress, with their Kimchi Dumplings – three pieces for just $3.90 – offering a perfectly crispy exterior and a tangy, well-seasoned filling. O.BBa Jjajang Express is truly best for Korean food enthusiasts who seek genuine authenticity and fantastic taste without having to break the bank.
Don’t let the kopitiam setting fool you—this Korean eatery serves authentic cuisine at prices that make Korean food accessible to everyone. Their Jjajangmyeon at $7.90 offers proper Korean black bean noodles with a rich, savory sauce. The $10.50 Jjampong arrives loaded with fresh mussels and prawns in a spicy seafood broth that rivals standalone Korean restaurants.
For those wanting lighter bites, the Kimchi Dumplings at $3.90 for three pieces make an excellent starter. The dumplings are crispy on the outside with tangy, well-seasoned filling.
Best for: Korean food enthusiasts who want authenticity without breaking the bank.
MEET Noodles
MEET Noodles carves out a niche in the bustling food scene by specializing in Lanzhou la mian, presenting the intricate art of hand-pulled noodles at remarkably accessible prices. Their dedication to authenticity shines through in dishes like the Braised Beef Noodle ($7.50), a comforting bowl featuring ultra-tender beef chunks nestled in a robust broth, meticulously simmered to develop deep, complex flavors that resonate with traditional palates. For those who crave an invigorating kick, the menu offers a vibrant array of spicy options: the Sour Spicy Noodle ($7.90/$9.50) masterfully balances fiery heat with a zesty tang, while the Hot Chilli Oil Noodle ($5.80) delivers a potent punch with flat noodles lavishly coated in aromatic chilli oil. Across all selections, the noodles themselves are a testament to skilled craftsmanship, boasting a perfectly chewy texture that elevates the entire dining experience. MEET Noodles is truly a destination for noodle purists who appreciate time-honored hand-pulled techniques paired with bold, unforgettable flavors.
Specializing in Lanzhou la mian, MEET Noodles showcases the art of hand-pulled noodles at accessible prices. The Braised Beef Noodle ($7.50) features ultra-tender beef chunks in a robust broth that’s been simmered to develop deep, complex flavors.
Spice lovers should explore the Sour Spicy Noodle ($7.90/$9.50), which balances fiery heat with tangy notes, or the Hot Chilli Oil Noodle ($5.80)—flat noodles coated in aromatic chilli oil that packs a punch. The noodles themselves are perfectly chewy, demonstrating skilled craftsmanship.
Best for: Noodle purists who appreciate traditional hand-pulled techniques and bold flavors.
Hawker Heroes: Traditional Favorites
Boon Kee Wanton Noodles
Boon Kee Wanton Noodles, a cherished family-run stall nestled within the bustling Clementi 448 Market and Food Centre, has cultivated a dedicated following thanks to its unwavering commitment to consistency and quality. Their signature Wanton Noodles ($4/$5) exemplifies this dedication, offering a classic rendition featuring perfectly springy egg noodles, expertly tossed in a harmonious blend of fragrant sesame oil and premium soy sauce, and generously crowned with plump, flavourful wantons. Beyond this iconic dish, patrons can also savour the Ipoh Hor Fun ($4/$5), where silky smooth rice noodles are dressed with understated elegance in aromatic sesame oil and a touch of savoury oyster sauce. For those desiring an extra layer of texture, the Fried Dumplings ($5 for five pieces) provide a delightful crispy counterpoint, making for a satisfying accompaniment to any meal. Boon Kee truly stands out as a haven for traditionalists, consistently delivering reliable, well-executed hawker classics that evoke a comforting sense of nostalgia with every bite.
This family-run stall at Clementi 448 Market and Food Centre has earned its loyal following through consistency and quality. Their Wanton Noodles ($4/$5) stick to tradition, delivering springy egg noodles tossed in the right balance of sesame oil and soy sauce, topped with plump wantons.
The Ipoh Hor Fun ($4/$5) offers silky smooth rice noodles dressed simply but effectively in fragrant sesame oil and oyster sauce. For those wanting something crispy, the Fried Dumpling ($5 for five pieces) provides textural contrast and makes a satisfying side dish.
Best for: Traditionalists seeking reliable, well-executed hawker classics.
Soon Lee Porridge
Soon Lee Porridge stands as a beloved institution within Clementi, celebrated for serving a distinctly hearty and substantial version of Hainanese porridge that departs significantly from typical watery preparations. Their porridge is intentionally thick and deeply nourishing, its comforting texture further enhanced by generous additions of rich fried shallots and vibrant green onions which lend impressive depth and fragrance to every bowl. Priced affordably between $4 and $6, diners can choose from classic options like pork, chicken, or fish, with the simple addition of an egg for just $0.50 providing extra satisfaction. This warming, easily digestible meal is the quintessential comfort food locals seek out, whether they are nursing a cold or simply craving a fulfilling yet light option.
A Clementi institution, Soon Lee serves hearty Hainanese Porridge that differs from typical watery versions. Their porridge is notably thicker and more substantial, enriched with fried shallots and green onions that add depth and fragrance.
Available with pork, chicken, or fish ($4-$6), the porridge provides comfort in a bowl. The option to add an egg for just $0.50 extra makes it even more satisfying. This is the place locals turn to when seeking something warming and nourishing.
Best for: Anyone craving comfort food or nursing a cold; also perfect for those preferring lighter, easier-to-digest meals.
Li Yuan Mee Pok
Li Yuan Mee Pok is generating buzz within Singapore’s hawker scene by bravely challenging the definition of traditional noodle soup, offering a surprising and successful East-meets-West fusion. Eschewing the typical vinegar and chili base, the stall serves up Japanese-inspired bowls that lend new dimensions to the familiar springy mee pok noodles. Adventurous diners flock for experimental options like the Miso ($7) and Shoyu ($8) fusion bowls, finding that the rich, deeply savory Japanese broths complement the local noodles remarkably well. The ultimate blend of cultures can be found in the Char Siew Japanese Mee Pok ($10), which combines tender, caramelized roasted pork with your choice of umami-rich Japanese-style soup. Yet, Li Yuan also caters expertly to purists; traditional favorites like the Crayfish Mee Pok and the Large Prawn Noodle (both $10) showcase fresh, quality seafood paired with noodles meticulously tossed in their signature house sauce. This commitment to both innovation and quality makes Li Yuan Mee Pok an essential destination, satisfying both the adventurous eater seeking creative culinary mash-ups and the discerning seafood lover looking for generous portions.
This stall breaks convention by offering Japanese fusion mee pok in Miso ($7) and Shoyu ($8) flavors. The fusion works surprisingly well, with Japanese-style broths lending new dimensions to traditional mee pok. The Char Siew Japanese Mee Pok ($10) combines tender char siew with your choice of Japanese-inspired broth.
For purists, traditional options like Crayfish Mee Pok and Large Prawn Noodle (both $10) showcase fresh seafood paired with springy noodles tossed in their house sauce.
Best for: Adventurous eaters willing to try creative fusion, and seafood lovers seeking generous portions.
Spice It Up: Mala and Hotpot
Fragrance Paradise Ma La Xiang Guo
For those seeking the intensely aromatic, tongue-numbing thrill of Ma La Xiang Guo without the burden of premium prices, look no further than Fragrance Paradise Ma La Xiang Guo. Situated unpretentiously within a bustling kopitiam beside the bus interchange, this stall has mastered the art of high-volume, high-flavor customization. The core appeal lies in its impressive array of ingredients and straightforward categorical pricing, allowing patrons to meticulously craft their ideal spicy bowl. With ingredients ranging from staple vegetables priced at a modest $1.50 to meats ($3.30) and seafood ($3.50), the flexibility ensures a personalized meal designed exactly to your flavor profile and budget. The star ingredient, however, is their instant noodles ($1.50); they possess a highly sought-after, springy “QQ” texture that retains its bite even when fully submerged in the richly fragrant, chili-laced broth. Fragrance Paradise is, therefore, the definitive choice for customization lovers who prioritize robust flavor and satisfying portions over upscale dining—a powerful, affordable antidote to the deepest mala cravings.
Situated at a kopitiam beside the bus interchange, this stall offers ma la xiang guo at reasonable prices with an impressive variety of ingredients. Meats ($3.30), seafood ($3.50), vegetables ($1.50), and mushrooms ($2.80) give you building blocks for a customized meal.
The instant noodles ($1.50) deserve special mention for their springy QQ texture that holds up well in the spicy broth. This is a solid option for mala cravings without the premium shopping mall prices.
Best for: Customization lovers who want to build their own spicy bowl exactly to their preferences.
Gong Yuan Ma La Tang
Gong Yuan Ma La Tang, a fresh culinary addition to The Clementi Mall in 2024, has quickly established itself as a destination for Ma La enthusiasts seeking both potency and customization. Unlike traditional setups, this establishment utilizes a pay-by-weight system, encouraging diners to strategically select denser ingredients to maximize value. The true draw, however, lies in its robust broth offerings: guests can choose from the rich, signature Creamy Ma La Soup, the invigorating Tangy Pickled Vegetable Soup, or the familiar depth of the classic Tomato Soup. These broths are notably richer and more intense than competitors’ versions, delivering a profound depth of flavour that often necessitates having a refreshing cold beverage within reach. The tailored experience is further enhanced by an extensive free-flow condiment station, featuring essentials like soy sauce, potent chopped red chili, and pungent diced garlic, allowing those who favor intense, personalized heat and umami to dial in their perfect bowl. Gong Yuan Ma La Tang is best suited for discerning diners who prioritize deeply flavorful broths and enjoy meticulously customizing every element of their meal.
Opened in 2024 at The Clementi Mall, this newer establishment charges by weight rather than per ingredient. Choose from creamy Ma La Soup, tangy Pickled Vegetable Soup, or classic Tomato Soup. The broths are richer and more intense than competitors, so having a cold drink ready is advisable.
Free-flow condiments including soy sauce, chopped red chilli, and diced garlic allow further customization. The pay-by-weight system can work in your favor if you select denser ingredients strategically.
Best for: Those who prefer richer, more intense broths and enjoy customizing with various condiments.
Asian Delights: Regional Specialties
Huang Tu Di Xi’An Delights
Huang Tu Di Xi’An Delights brings the authentic, bold cuisine of China’s Shaanxi Province directly to Singapore, specializing in the robust flavors characteristic of Xi’An. Located at 321 Clementi, the restaurant is defined by its generous portions and its commitment to a default spicy flavor profile—though staff are happy to adjust heat levels upon request. The undisputed signature dish is the 3-in-1 Biang Biang noodles ($11.80++), a visually and texturally exciting option featuring wide, hand-pulled noodles paired with three distinct toppings. Diners seeking a different savory experience can opt for the Zha Jiang Noodles ($9.50++), which are tossed in a thick, rich sauce, or the classic Rou Jia Mo ($6.80++), the Shaanxi Meat Bun providing a hearty, sandwich-like handheld meal. With dishes often requiring a truly hungry appetite, Huang Tu Di is the ideal destination for those seeking genuine, spice-forward Xi’An fare.
Bringing authentic Shaanxi Province cuisine to Singapore, this restaurant at 321 Clementi specializes in bold, robust flavors. The signature 3-in-1 Biang Biang noodles ($11.80++) showcase wide, hand-pulled noodles with three types of toppings. Portions are notably generous, often requiring a hearty appetite.
The Zha Jiang Noodles ($9.50++) offer a different flavor profile with thick, savory sauce, while the Rou Jia Mo ($6.80++), or Meat Bun, provides a sandwich-like handheld option. Most dishes default to spicy, but staff will adjust heat levels upon request.
Best for: Those seeking authentic Xi’An cuisine with bold, spicy flavors and generous portions.
Shanghai Tan Pan-Fried Buns
Nestled on Level 1 of 321 Clementi, Shanghai Tan is a casual Chinese eatery that masterfully blends the art of dim sum with comforting noodle dishes. A must-try is their Shanghai Tan Pan-Fried Bun Platter ($7.80++), a delectable quartet featuring two prawn and two pork buns. Each bun boasts a gloriously crispy, golden-brown exterior, giving way to a burst of juicy, flavorful meat within – a true testament to authentic Shanghai-style preparation. Beyond these irresistible pan-fried delights, patrons consistently rave about the Signature Steamed Pork “Xiao Long Bao” ($6.30++ for five), where impossibly thin skins barely contain a rich, savory broth and succulent pork filling. For those seeking a hearty noodle fix, the Noodles Served with Shredded Pork & Preserved Vegetable ($8.30++) offers fresh la mian bathed in a wonderfully tangy suan cai broth, delivering pure comfort in a bowl. Shanghai Tan is undoubtedly a prime destination for dim sum enthusiasts and anyone yearning for a genuine taste of Shanghai’s culinary treasures.
Located at level 1 of 321 Clementi, this casual Chinese eatery excels at both dim sum and noodles. The Shanghai Tan Pan-Fried Bun Platter ($7.80++) features two prawn and two pork buns with crispy exteriors that give way to juicy, flavorful meat.
The Signature Steamed Pork “Xiao Long Bao” ($6.30++ for five) are crowd favorites, with thin skins barely containing the savory broth and pork filling. The Noodles Served with Shredded Pork & Preserved Vegetable ($8.30++) offers comfort in the form of fresh la mian in tangy suan cai broth.
Best for: Dim sum enthusiasts and those craving authentic Shanghai-style buns.
Soi 47
Just two stops away from Clementi MRT, Soi 47 has established itself as a reliable destination for satisfying cravings with robust and authentic Thai flavors. The menu features standout dishes that appeal to both comfort seekers and those looking for vibrant zest. A popular choice is the Claypot Tang Hoon with Prawns ($14.50), delivering fragrant glass noodles cooked to perfection in a traditional claypot, interspersed with succulent prawns. For those desiring fresh seafood, the Steamed Seabass with Thai Lime Sauce ($22) offers a delicate balance, pairing flawlessly fresh fish with a sharply tangy and aromatic dressing. The experience is expertly completed with classic Thai desserts; the cooling Red Ruby ($3.50) provides refreshing water chestnuts in sweet coconut milk, while the Mango Sticky Rice ($5.50) offers the quintessential taste of Thai sweetness. Paired with a deeply comforting Thai Milk Tea, starting at $3.50, Soi 47 provides the perfect accompaniment to the restaurant’s genuinely spicy and flavorful cuisine.
This Thai restaurant, two stops from Clementi MRT, satisfies cravings with authentic flavors. The Claypot Tang Hoon with Prawns ($14.50) delivers fragrant glass noodles cooked in claypot with succulent prawns. The Steamed Seabass with Thai Lime Sauce ($22) balances fresh fish with tangy, aromatic sauce.
Don’t skip dessert—the Red Ruby ($3.50) offers refreshing water chestnuts in sweet coconut milk, while Mango Sticky Rice ($5.50) provides classic Thai sweetness. Thai Milk Tea starts at $3.50, the perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes.
Best for: Thai food lovers seeking authentic flavors from curries to desserts.
Halal-Certified Options
Springleaf Prata Place
At NEWest in Clementi, Springleaf Prata Place has carved out its niche as the quintessential 24-hour supper spot, particularly for Muslim diners seeking both familiarity and culinary adventure. While it reverently preserves the appeal of time-honoured classics like the humble Plain Prata ($1.40), the satisfying Egg Prata ($2.50), and the comforting Plaster Prata ($2.60), the establishment truly distinguishes itself through a bold, innovative spirit. Pushing culinary boundaries while strictly adhering to halal requirements, audacious creations such as the rich Prata Alfredo ($11.80) and the decadent Salted Egg Prawn Prata ($12.90) offer an exciting, contemporary twist on traditional Indian flatbreads. Complementing these savoury delights, Springleaf Prata Place further elevates the dining experience with an intriguing selection of unique mocktails, including the refreshing Lychee-Tini and the vibrant Shirley Cherry (both $5.30), providing imaginative beverage alternatives that go beyond standard drink offerings. This harmonious blend of classic comfort and inventive flair makes it a beloved destination for any time of day or night.
Operating 24 hours at NEWest, this is Clementi’s go-to supper spot for Muslim diners. While classics like Plain Prata ($1.40), Egg Prata ($2.50), and Plaster Prata ($2.60) satisfy traditionalists, creative offerings show innovation.
Prata Alfredo ($11.80) and Salted Egg Prawn Prata ($12.90) push boundaries while respecting halal requirements. Unique mocktails like Lychee-Tini and Shirley Cherry (both $5.30) provide interesting beverage alternatives beyond standard drinks.
Best for: Late-night cravings, halal diners, and those wanting both traditional and creative prata options.
Mee Bagus
Nestled within the familiar bustle of a traditional kopitiam, a striking modern stall is redefining local casual dining by offering meticulously prepared, Muslim-friendly renditions of Singapore’s favorite noodle dishes. This contemporary establishment successfully blends accessibility with elevated cuisine, attracting diverse crowds eager to sample its inventive menu. The signature offering is the Mee Bagus Special ($7.30), which takes the humble concept of bak chor mee and transforms it into a premium bowl: brimming with abalone slices, tender squid, sliced chicken breast, fishballs, meatballs, earthy mushrooms, and crowned with a luscious lava egg. For those who crave heat, the Volcano Ayam ($7.30) offers a fiery challenge, soaking tender chicken in the stall’s potent, proprietary volcano sambal. Complementing these hearty mains is the perfect sharing plate, the Crispy Wonton ($5.50 for 12 pieces). Despite its humble coffee shop address, the stall’s clean, modern decor and high-quality ingredients succeed in forging an elevated casual dining atmosphere, proving that gastronomic excellence and inclusivity can thrive even in the most traditional of settings.
This modern Muslim-friendly stall inside a kopitiam serves halal versions of local noodle favorites. The Mee Bagus Special ($7.30) elevates bak chor mee with premium ingredients including abalone slices, squid, chicken breast, fishballs, meatballs, mushrooms, and a lava egg.
The Volcano Ayam ($7.30) adds their fiery volcano sambal for spice enthusiasts. Crispy Wonton ($5.50 for 12 pieces) makes an excellent sharing side. Despite the kopitiam location, the modern decor creates an elevated casual dining atmosphere.
Best for: Halal diners seeking local noodle dishes with premium ingredients.
Cafe Culture
OLLA Specialty Coffee
Beyond the bustling main road, hidden just a comfortable 10-minute walk from Clementi MRT, lies OLLA, a relaxed sanctuary serving satisfying Western-style brunch. Patrons seeking savory fare are spoiled for choice, with popular standouts including the wholesome Smashing Avo served alongside perfectly Scrambled Eggs ($14.80++) and the robust, flavor-packed Shakshouka Baked Eggs ($15.80++). The beverage menu caters specifically to discerning tastes: coffee enthusiasts can settle in with a refined Pourover Filter Coffee ($9++), while those seeking a non-caffeinated option will find the Signature Honey Hibiscus Iced Shaken Tea ($6.50++) a delightfully crisp alternative. To complete the experience, the menu offers indulgent sweetness in the form of Buttermilk Waffles with Gelato ($15.90++), allowing for customizable dessert pairings. OLLA provides the ideal backdrop for brunch lovers, coffee connoisseurs, and anyone seeking a comfortable, unhurried cafe atmosphere.
A 10-minute walk from Clementi MRT, OLLA serves Western-style brunch in a comfortable setting. The Smashing Avo w Scrambled Eggs ($14.80++) and Shakshouka Baked Eggs ($15.80++) represent their popular savory options.
Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the Pourover Filter Coffee ($9++), while the Signature Honey Hibiscus Iced Shaken Tea ($6.50++) offers a refreshing alternative. Buttermilk Waffles with Gelato ($15.90++) provide indulgent sweetness with your choice of ice cream.
Best for: Brunch lovers, coffee connoisseurs, and those seeking a relaxed cafe atmosphere.
MADLYGOOD
Nestled within The Clementi Mall, MADLYGOOD beckons dessert enthusiasts with its promise of truly indulgent experiences. This vibrant cafe specializes in decadent treats, where the signature Original Buttermilk Waffles (from $11.50) take center stage. Among the various tempting flavours, the Pistachio Creme Waffles ($16.50) offer a particularly opulent and nutty delight. For those with a serious chocolate craving, the Nutella Brownie Crepe ($14.50) delivers rich, fudgy layers designed to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Beyond these dessert masterpieces, MADLYGOOD’s diverse beverage menu ensures a perfect pairing, ranging from classic Milkshakes (from $9.50) and invigorating Kombuchas (from $6) to a selection of Espresso options (from $4.50). While not halal-certified, the cafe thoughtfully accommodates more diners by using no pork or lard in its preparations. Ultimately, MADLYGOOD is the ideal destination for anyone seeking Instagram-worthy treats and an overall lavish cafe outing, promising an experience that is, quite literally, madly good.
Located at The Clementi Mall, this cafe specializes in indulgent desserts. The Original Buttermilk Waffles (from $11.50) come in various flavors, with the Pistachio Creme Waffles ($16.50) standing out. The Nutella Brownie Crepe ($14.50) satisfies chocolate cravings with rich, decadent layers.
Beyond desserts, their beverage menu spans Milkshakes (from $9.50), Kombucha (from $6), and Espresso options (from $4.50). While not halal-certified, they use no pork or lard, accommodating more diners.
Best for: Dessert enthusiasts, Instagram-worthy treats, and those wanting indulgent cafe experiences.
Drinks and Desserts
Hello! Brew Bar
For those seeking a moment of affordable, liquid bliss, Hello! Brew Bar offers an indulgent escape centered entirely around creative beverages and delicious desserts. This dedicated drinks specialist goes far beyond standard offerings, presenting an extensive and interesting menu designed to captivate the most discerning palates. Signature bestsellers lean heavily into complex textures and rich flavors, such as the wildly popular Roasted Creme Brulee Pudding Milk Tea, a lavish treat marrying creamy custard notes with a robust tea base, or the tropical delight of the Coconut Shake with Coconut Pudding. Remarkably, this quality doesn’t break the bank; signature beverages like these, alongside refreshing options such as the Honeydew Sago, are affordably priced at just $3.90. Offering excellent value, sealed by the option to upsize for only an additional dollar, Hello! Brew Bar firmly positions itself as the optimal destination for bubble tea enthusiasts seeking both thrilling variety and unbeatable bang for their buck.
With an extensive menu of interesting beverages, this drinks specialist offers bestsellers like Roasted Creme Brulee Pudding Milk Tea, Coconut Shake with Coconut Pudding, and Honeydew Sago, all affordably priced at $3.90. The option to upsize for just $1 provides excellent value.
Best for: Bubble tea enthusiasts seeking variety and value.
Mei Heong Yuan Dessert
Located right beside the bustling Boleh Boleh food court, Mei Heong Yuan Dessert has firmly established itself as the premier spot for a light, refreshing conclusion to any meal, often staying busy well into the evening hours. The undeniable star of the menu is the traditional shaved ice ($6.50), available in authentically soothing flavors like Green Tea and Sesame, alongside tropical favorites such as Mango and Strawberry—each bowl offering immediate, cooling relief. Beyond the icy treats, the highly popular Mango Roll ($4.50) provides a study in textural contrast; sweet cubes of ripe mango are deftly wrapped in a thin, delightfully “QQ” (chewy) mochi skin. For both dedicated traditional Chinese dessert lovers and casual diners seeking authentic, light, and perfectly balanced sweets, Mei Heong Yuan offers an essential post-dinner pilgrimage.
This traditional Chinese dessert spot beside Boleh Boleh food court stays busy, especially after dinner. Shaved ice in Green Tea, Mango, Strawberry, and Sesame flavors ($6.50 each) offer refreshing relief. The Mango Roll ($4.50) wraps sweet mango cubes in QQ mochi skin for textural contrast.
Best for: Traditional Chinese dessert lovers and those wanting light, refreshing sweets.
Burnt Cones
Burnt Cones has established itself as the go-to late-night destination for premium gelato, keeping its doors open until midnight to satisfy late-evening sweet cravings. While rotating flavors offer consistent novelty, the menu ensures quality with constant bestsellers like the intense 85% Dark Choc ($7) and the superb Bronte Pistachio ($6). The latter is a standout favorite, praised for its notably creamy texture and captivatingly authentic roasted nutty aroma. Gelato is available in generous portions, with a premium Single Scoop costing $5 and a Double Scoop priced at $9. Many patrons opt to pair their cool indulgence with the Signature Buttermilk Waffles ($7), celebrated for their ideal balance of crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors. To round out the experience, Burnt Cones also offers a range of specialty beverages, including classic coffee options like the Flat White, starting affordably from $5.
The go-to late-night gelato destination stays open until midnight. Premium Single Scoop ($5) and Double Scoop ($9) come in rotating flavors, though bestsellers 85% Dark Choc ($7) and Bronte Pistachio ($6) remain constant. The pistachio is notably creamy with authentic roasted nutty aroma.
Signature Buttermilk Waffles ($7) feature crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, perfect for pairing with gelato. Coffee drinks like Flat White (from $5) and specialty beverages round out the menu.
Best for: Late-night dessert cravings, gelato purists, and those wanting quality Italian-style ice cream.
Special Occasions
308 Fish Steamboat and Zi Char
For those cherished special occasions where family and friends gather to celebrate life’s milestones, 308 Fish Steamboat and Zi Char stands out as an ideal choice. Its renown is built upon the Signature Fish Steamboat, a culinary delight designed for effortless enjoyment; the thoughtful touch of serving the fish deboned and separately ensures a hassle-free dining experience, allowing everyone to savour the fresh flavours without fuss. Beyond the steamboat, the extensive zi char menu offers a feast for every palate, from the sizzling Hot Plate Deer Meat (starting at $20) and the beautifully crafted Yam Ring ($25) to the luxurious Crab Meat Shark Fin Soup (from $40), each dish perfectly suited to elevate a celebratory spread. Clearly designed for grand affairs, 308 Fish Steamboat and Zi Char excels in catering to large gatherings, significant celebrations, and those seeking the authentic, comforting embrace of traditional Chinese banquet-style dining
Perfect for family gatherings, this restaurant specializes in their Signature Fish Steamboat where the fish arrives deboned and served separately—a thoughtful touch that makes dining easier. The extensive zi char menu includes Hot Plate Deer Meat (from $20), Yam Ring ($25), and Crab Meat Shark Fin Soup (from $40).
Best for: Large gatherings, celebrations, and those seeking traditional Chinese banquet-style dining.
Get Some
This Western-Chinese fusion spot offers craft beers on tap from local and international breweries, starting at $12 during happy hour. For non-drinkers, soft drinks ($3) and mocktails ($8.90) are available.
Food combines Eastern and Western influences: Seafood Laksa Pasta ($17.90) merges Italian and Peranakan cuisines, while 8-piece Prawn Paste Chicken ($12.90) and various Pizzas (from $17.90) round out the menu.
Best for: Groups wanting drinks with fusion food, and those seeking a casual bar atmosphere.
The Verdict
Clementi’s food scene impresses with its diversity and accessibility. Budget-conscious diners can eat extremely well under $10, with Xin Peng La Mian Xiao Long Bao and O.BBa Jjajang Express leading the value-for-money charge. Traditional hawker stalls like Boon Kee Wanton Noodles and Soon Lee Porridge maintain high standards that have built loyal followings.
The area particularly excels at Asian regional cuisines—from Xi’An to Shanghai to Thai—offering authentic flavors without requiring extensive travel. Muslim diners benefit from solid halal options at Springleaf Prata Place and Mee Bagus, both of which go beyond basic offerings.
Cafe culture has arrived in Clementi through spots like OLLA Specialty Coffee and MADLYGOOD, while late-night options from Burnt Cones and the 24-hour Springleaf ensure cravings can be satisfied at any hour.
What makes Clementi special isn’t just the variety—it’s how everything clusters near the MRT station and bus interchange, making food crawls effortless. Whether you’re seeking a quick $5 lunch, authentic regional specialties, or a leisurely weekend brunch, Clementi delivers without the hype and crowds of trendier neighborhoods. It’s Singapore heartland dining at its most authentic and accessible.