Serangoon has long been overshadowed by its famous food centres like Chomp Chomp and Serangoon Gardens Market, but this northeastern neighborhood harbors a treasure trove of lesser-known eateries that deserve equal attention. From innovative burger joints to traditional dim sum parlors, heritage dumpling stalls to modern cafes, Serangoon offers a culinary journey that rivals any food district in Singapore.
Western & Fusion
SimpleBurger Inc
What Makes It Special: A unique stand-up burger concept by the iSteaks Diner team that revolutionizes the DIY burger experience.
This isn’t your typical burger joint. SimpleBurger Inc empowers diners to become burger architects, offering complete customization from patty to toppings. The star of the show is their Natural Beef Patty Burger, featuring an expertly crafted blend of striploin and ribeye that delivers smoky, grilled perfection without relying on heavy seasoning—a testament to quality ingredients.
The free-flow vegetable station is a game-changer, allowing health-conscious diners to load up on fresh produce without guilt. Premium add-ons like Parmesan Tuile and crispy bacon strips provide opportunities to elevate your creation further.
Best For: Casual lunches, customization enthusiasts, groups with different dietary preferences
Price Range: $9-$13 for burgers, add-ons from $1.50
Location: 1177 Serangoon Road, #02-01
Clovelly
What Makes It Special: An Instagram-worthy industrial cafe serving upscale all-day brunch with standout seafood dishes.
Clovelly represents the sophisticated side of Serangoon’s dining scene. This stylish establishment strikes a rare balance between aesthetic appeal and culinary substance. The Crab On Crab pasta showcases handmade gemelli swimming in a luxurious white wine cream sauce, crowned with an entire soft shell crab—a dish that’s both visually stunning and deeply satisfying.
For brunch lovers, the Crab Croissant Florentine reimagines eggs Benedict with a decadent twist, pairing buttery croissant layers with fresh crab meat, baby spinach, and perfectly runny eggs beneath tangy hollandaise. The Banana Orange Foster dessert provides a theatrical finale with its caramelized bourbon sabayon sauce.
Best For: Brunch dates, special occasions, Instagram content, seafood enthusiasts
Price Range: $14.90++ to $24.90++
Location: 15-2 Jalan Riang
Korean Cuisine
Kelim Dakdoritang
What Makes It Special: Nearly 60 years of Korean culinary heritage, bringing rare dakdoritang to Singapore.
This established Korean chain fills a significant gap in Singapore’s Korean food landscape by specializing in dakdoritang—braised spicy chicken that’s surprisingly hard to find locally. The namesake dish arrives as a bubbling pot of comfort, loaded with rice cakes, potato chunks, and tender chicken pieces swimming in a fiery red broth enriched with generous amounts of minced garlic.
The portion sizes are thoughtfully designed for sharing, with options accommodating groups from two to four people. For those wary of spice, the Dakhanmari offers the same comforting qualities without the heat, making this restaurant accessible to all palates.
Best For: Group dinners, Korean food enthusiasts, cold weather comfort
Price Range: $36.90+ to $69.90+ depending on size
Location: 14B Kensington Park Road
Chinese Cuisine
Lau Wang Claypot Delights
What Makes It Special: Traditional claypot cooking techniques delivering home-style Chinese comfort food.
Located in an unassuming coffee shop near NEX, Lau Wang Claypot Delights proves that great food doesn’t require fancy surroundings. The Sesame Chicken stands out with its perfect marinade and aromatic sesame oil that permeates every tender piece. Each claypot arrives at the table still bubbling, ensuring maximum temperature and flavor retention.
The Sambal Seafood challenges diners with its fiery kick, featuring a medley of fresh seafood in vibrant red sauce. Meanwhile, the Sliced Fish Herbal Soup provides medicinal comfort with its rich broth infused with sweet goji berries and a pleasantly bitter herbal finish.
Best For: Weeknight dinners, comfort food cravings, family meals
Price Range: $6.30 to $11.50
Location: 263 Serangoon Central Drive, #01-43
Chong Qing Grilled Fish
What Makes It Special: Authentic Chongqing-style grilled fish with customizable spice levels and late-night hours.
This eatery transports diners straight to Chongqing’s spicy culinary scene. The concept is brilliantly simple yet endlessly customizable: select your fish variety, choose from six distinct flavor profiles (from Spicy Fragrant to Mushroom Herbs), then add your preferred mala ingredients to create a personalized masterpiece.
Beyond fish, the menu surprises with creative offerings like Hot-Plate Mutton with Cumin and Salted Egg Calamari with Thai Herbs. The extended hours until 1-2am make this an ideal supper destination for night owls and shift workers.
Best For: Mala lovers, late-night dining, adventurous eaters, group gatherings
Price Range: $16++ to $46++ depending on fish selection
Location: 2 Maju Avenue
18 Seafood
What Makes It Special: Creative twists on traditional zi char dishes, including their famous Champagne Spare Ribs.
18 Seafood elevates neighborhood zi char dining with inventive takes on familiar favorites. The Champagne Spare Ribs represent their creative philosophy perfectly—maintaining the soul of traditional pork ribs while introducing sophisticated flavors through champagne-infused preparation. The result is succulent, meaty ribs with caramelized edges and complex flavor notes.
The XO Sauce Fried HK Mee Pok delivers addictive umami through premium XO sauce and impressive wok hei, proving that simple dishes executed well can be extraordinary.
Best For: Family dinners, zi char enthusiasts, special celebrations
Price Range: $6 to $28
Location: 2 Lorong Lew Lian, #01-56
JU Signatures
What Makes It Special: Contemporary dim sum crafted by an ex-hotel chef with extensive culinary credentials.
Chef Wong Kok Shyong brings hotel-level expertise to this accessible dim sum destination. The JU Treasures Trio showcases technical mastery through perfectly translucent prawn dumpling skins that reveal colorful fillings—each variation offering distinct flavor profiles through crab meat or grouper fish additions.
The Wok-fried Chilli Crab In Mantou Tureen demonstrates creative thinking, transforming Singapore’s iconic dish into a handheld delight. The crispy mantou tureen provides textural contrast while soaking up the rich, spicy sauce loaded with crab meat.
Best For: Dim sum brunches, special occasions, culinary adventurers
Price Range: $7.80++ to $8.80++
Location: 4 Maju Avenue, Serangoon Gardens
Malaysian Cuisine
JB Tai Pai Tong
What Makes It Special: Authentic Malaysian zi char bringing JB flavors to Singapore.
This establishment bridges the culinary gap between Singapore and Johor Bahru, offering an extensive menu of Malaysian favorites without the border crossing. The KL Dai Lok Mee (KL Hokkien Mee) features thick noodles bathed in sweet soy-based sauce with proper wok breath—a dish that’s surprisingly difficult to find done well in Singapore.
The signature Dai Pai Tong Fried Bee Hoon and Hot Plate Stingray round out a menu that’s both comprehensive and authentic, satisfying Malaysian food cravings without the traffic jam.
Best For: Malaysian food lovers, group dinners, those craving JB flavors
Price Range: $6 to $22
Location: 261 Serangoon Central Drive
Nanyang Dao
What Makes It Special: Modern cafe setting serving traditional Malaysian hawker favorites with contemporary presentation.
Conveniently located near Serangoon MRT, Nanyang Dao modernizes Malaysian cuisine without sacrificing authenticity. The Penang Fried Kway Teow achieves the coveted wok hei while maintaining a generous ingredient-to-noodle ratio with plump prawns, fish cake, and Chinese sausage.
The Nan Yang Deep Fry Platter provides variety with four different fried specialties, while the Chendol offers refreshing contrast with luscious coconut milk and sweet gula melaka—perfect for Singapore’s climate.
Best For: Quick meals, air-conditioned comfort, Malaysian food beginners
Price Range: $3.50+ to $8.90+
Location: 262 Serangoon Central, #01-85
Heritage & Traditional
Tian Jin Fong Kee
What Makes It Special: 75 years of dumpling-making heritage, passed down through generations.
Three-quarters of a century of experience results in dumplings that achieve technical perfection. The Steamed Dumplings feature ideal skin thickness—thin enough to appreciate the filling, thick enough to maintain structural integrity. The meat filling bursts with flavor from sesame oil and chives, demonstrating proper seasoning and texture.
The Fried Dumplings provide textural satisfaction with crispy golden-brown bottoms while maintaining juicy interiors. The Fong Kee Rice Cake offers a unique Chinese interpretation similar to Korean tteokbokki, featuring soft rice cakes in garlicky gravy with stewed vegetables.
Best For: Dumpling enthusiasts, family sharing meals, appreciation of culinary heritage
Price Range: $5 to $7 for 10 pieces
Location: 49A Serangoon Garden Way, Serangoon Garden Market & Food Centre
Kim Heng Roasted Delights
What Makes It Special: Media-recognized charcoal-roasted meats at remarkably affordable prices.
Kim Heng’s commitment to charcoal roasting elevates their offerings above typical roast meat stalls. The Char Siew Rice showcases perfectly balanced meat-to-fat ratio with ideal caramelization and smoky char notes that only charcoal can provide.
The Pork Ribs Rice represents exceptional value with four substantial rib portions that achieve fall-off-the-bone tenderness. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the rich meat, demonstrating how simple additions can enhance already excellent food.
Best For: Budget-conscious diners, roast meat enthusiasts, quick meals
Price Range: $4.80
Location: 214 Serangoon Avenue 4, #01-88
First Street Teochew Fish Soup
What Makes It Special: Since 1988, delivering crystal-clear fish soup with exceptionally fresh seafood.
This establishment has earned legendary status among fish soup aficionados through decades of consistency. The Pomfret Fish Soup with Rice exemplifies their approach—over ten tender fish slices and tang oh swimming in a deep, flavorful broth enhanced with shallots, ginger, salted preserved vegetables, and dried sole fish.
The Seafood Soup with Rice maximizes value, packing bowls with batang fish slices, prawns, fresh squid, and seasoned minced meat in the same exceptional broth. The clarity of the soup reflects careful preparation and quality ingredients.
Best For: Fish soup purists, breakfast/lunch crowds, value seekers
Price Range: $6.90 to $19.90
Location: 1014 Upper Serangoon Road
Noodles & Local Favorites
Bossi Ban Mian
What Makes It Special: Hakka-style ban mian with distinctive chye poh addition, setting it apart from typical ban mian stalls.
Bossi Ban Mian redefines this local favorite through Hakka influences and premium ingredients. The Signature Noodle transforms humble ban mian into a luxurious experience with baby abalone, scallop, and prawn joining the traditional minced meat and chye poh. The dark sauce coating creates addictive flavor complexity.
The house-made green chilli deserves special mention—fiery heat balanced with refreshing lime zest creates a condiment that enhances rather than overwhelms. Even their basic Noodle Soup impresses with handmade meatballs and generous leafy greens.
Best For: Ban mian enthusiasts, lunch crowds, those seeking elevated hawker food
Price Range: $4 to $9
Location: 49A Serangoon Garden Way, Serangoon Garden Market & Food Centre
Indian Cuisine
Srisun Express
What Makes It Special: 24-hour operation with extensive menu spanning traditional Indian, Western fusion, and Mexican influences.
Srisun Express redefines what a prata house can be. Operating around the clock, this establishment serves everything from classic Maggi Goreng to innovative Tikka Tacos. The Tissue Prata Butterscotch towers over tables as a massive cone dripping with sweet butterscotch—Instagram-worthy and delicious.
The Masala Fries and drink towers (up to 3 liters) create a party atmosphere, making this more social dining destination than quick prata stop. The fusion approach succeeds through quality execution rather than gimmickry.
Best For: Late-night dining, large groups, prata lovers, adventurous eaters
Price Range: $1.40 to $22 (drink towers)
Location: 56 Serangoon Garden Way
Halal Status: Halal-certified
Japanese Cuisine
Waa Cow! Yakiniku
What Makes It Special: Budget-friendly Japanese BBQ averaging under $10 per person without sacrificing quality.
This restaurant democratizes Japanese yakiniku, making it accessible for regular dining rather than special occasions only. The Trio Meats Set provides exceptional value with karubi, pork collar, and chicken thigh at under $10, while maintaining respectable quality standards.
The Amaebi Platter expands options beyond meat with sweet shrimp, Hokkaido scallops, and Norwegian salmon, demonstrating versatility. The casual atmosphere encourages relaxed dining without the pressure of high-end yakiniku establishments.
Best For: Budget-conscious diners, Japanese BBQ beginners, casual dates
Price Range: $4.90++ to $21.90++
Location: 1 Maju Avenue, #02-10/11, myVillage
Brunch & Cafe
Bread First Everyday
What Makes It Special: All-day brunch menu with hearty Western breakfast options at reasonable prices.
This cafe brings reliable Western breakfast to Serangoon’s heartland. The Chicken Cutlet on Waffle combines crispy exterior with fluffy interior texture, complemented by juicy fried chicken and scrambled eggs—comfort breakfast perfection.
The Rosti Platter features freshly made, in-house rosti loaded generously with sour cream, eggs, pork sausage, and salad. The commitment to making components from scratch elevates this above typical cafe fare.
Best For: Weekend brunches, Western breakfast cravings, families
Price Range: $10.90
Location: 969 Upper Serangoon Road, Mee Sek Food Court
Neighborhood Character
What distinguishes Serangoon’s food scene is its genuine neighborhood character. Unlike trendy districts where restaurants chase viral fame, Serangoon’s eateries focus on consistent quality and fair pricing. Multi-generational businesses like Tian Jin Fong Kee and First Street Teochew Fish Soup anchor the area with decades of expertise, while newer establishments like SimpleBurger Inc and Clovelly push creative boundaries.
The geographic spread across Serangoon Gardens, Serangoon Central, and Upper Serangoon creates distinct micro-neighborhoods, each with unique culinary personalities. This diversity means visitors can find everything from $4.80 rice plates to $24++ pasta within the same postal code.
Practical Dining Tips
For First-Time Visitors: Start with heritage establishments like Tian Jin Fong Kee or First Street Teochew Fish Soup to understand Serangoon’s traditional foundations, then explore modern interpretations at places like JU Signatures or Clovelly.
For Budget Dining: Kim Heng Roasted Delights, Bossi Ban Mian, and Waa Cow! Yakiniku offer exceptional value without compromising quality. Most meals can be enjoyed for under $10.
For Group Dining: Kelim Dakdoritang, Chong Qing Grilled Fish, and 18 Seafood provide sharing-style meals perfect for families or friends, with diverse menu options accommodating various preferences.
For Late Night: Srisun Express (24 hours) and Chong Qing Grilled Fish (until 1-2am) satisfy post-work or weekend night cravings when most establishments have closed.
For Special Occasions: Clovelly and JU Signatures offer more refined dining experiences suitable for celebrations or dates, while maintaining reasonable pricing.
Final Verdict
Serangoon succeeds as a food destination precisely because it doesn’t try too hard. The neighborhood maintains authentic, unpretentious dining experiences while gradually incorporating contemporary concepts. Whether seeking budget-friendly hawker fare, heritage establishments with generational expertise, or modern cafes with creative menus, Serangoon delivers without the crowds or premiums found in more famous food districts.
The area’s strength lies in diversity—Korean dakdoritang, Malaysian zi char, Hakka ban mian, Japanese yakiniku, and Western brunch coexist within walking distance, yet each establishment maintains clear identity and purpose. This is neighborhood dining at its finest: accessible, authentic, and delicious.
For residents, Serangoon offers culinary variety that eliminates dining monotony. For visitors, it provides authentic Singaporean food culture away from tourist-oriented establishments. Either way, Serangoon’s eateries reward those willing to venture beyond the usual suspects, proving that sometimes the best meals hide in plain sight.
- Limited Information: Most establishments appear to be dine-in focused
- Takeaway Available: Several hawker stalls and coffee shops
- No Delivery Mentioned: For most locations
Tourist Accessibility:
- Highest Value: Maxwell Food Centre, Tong Ah Eating House, Original Katong Laksa, Atlas Bar
- Moderate Accessibility: Most hawker centres and established restaurants
- Advance Planning Required: The Ampang Kitchen, Burnt Ends reservations
Cultural Significance:
- Historical: Tong Ah (1939), Singapore Zam Zam (1908), Song Fa (1969)
- Heritage Preservation : Kim Choo Kueh Chang, Tan’s Tu Tu Coconut Cake
- Modern Innovation: Burnt Ends, Cloudstreet, % Arabica
Cooking Techniques Highlighted:
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