Singapore is a haven for food lovers, and no one knows this better than KF Seetoh, the country’s foremost food guru. Founder of the famous Makansutra, Seetoh has dedicated his life to discovering and promoting the best of Singapore’s culinary delights. Here are his top places to eat in the Lion City, offering a mix of traditional hawker fare and modern culinary innovations.
1. Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle
Located in the bustling Chinatown Complex Market, this humble hawker stall gained international fame when it was awarded a Michelin star. The soya sauce chicken is tender and flavorful, served with fragrant rice that makes it a must-try for any foodie.2. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
Chicken rice is a quintessential Singaporean dish, and Tian Tian is arguably the best place to enjoy it. Situated in the Maxwell Food Centre, their chicken is succulent, and the rice is cooked to perfection with a savory, aromatic broth. Don't forget the tangy chili sauce and ginger paste, which elevate the dish to another level.3. 328 Katong Laksa
A favorite among locals and tourists alike, 328 Katong Laksa offers a unique twist on the traditional Peranakan dish. The rich, coconut-based curry soup is packed with fresh prawns, cockles, and fish cakes, with noodles cut into bite-sized pieces so you can eat it with just a spoon.4. Hill Street Fried Kway Teow
For those craving stir-fried noodles, Hill Street Fried Kway Teow is the place to be. Their rendition of this classic dish includes flat rice noodles stir-fried with eggs, Chinese sausage, fish cake, and bean sprouts, all infused with a delicious wok hei (smoky) flavor.5. Newton Food Centre
This iconic hawker center, featured in the movie Crazy Rich Asians, is a treasure trove of local delights. Seetoh recommends trying the barbecued stingray, chili crab, and oyster omelette. With so many stalls to choose from, it’s a great place to sample a variety of Singapore’s best street food.6. Burnt Ends
For a modern twist, Burnt Ends offers a unique dining experience with its open-concept kitchen and custom-built grills. This Michelin-starred restaurant serves delectable dishes like smoked quail eggs, steak, and king crab legs, all cooked to perfection with a distinct smoky flavor.7. Hawker Chan
Another Michelin-starred gem, Hawker Chan is known for its mouth-watering soy sauce chicken. The stall has expanded into a full-fledged restaurant, but the quality of the food remains top-notch, offering an affordable yet unforgettable dining experience.8. Komala Vilas
Vegetarian food enthusiasts should not miss Komala Vilas, a historic eatery specializing in South Indian cuisine. Their thali sets, dosas, and idlis are beloved by locals, and the rich, flavorful curries and chutneys will leave you wanting more.9. Candlenut
As the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Candlenut redefines traditional Straits Chinese cuisine with a contemporary flair. The chef’s tasting menu includes dishes like blue swimmer crab curry and charcoal-grilled satay, each crafted with the freshest ingredients and meticulous attention to detail.10. Old Airport Road Food Centre
One of Singapore’s oldest and most beloved hawker centers, Old Airport Road is a food paradise. Seetoh suggests trying the Hokkien mee, lor mee, and rojak. The variety and quality of food here are outstanding, making it a must-visit for any food lover.KF Seetoh’s recommendations showcase the rich and diverse culinary landscape of Singapore. From humble hawker stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for every palate in this vibrant food haven. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these top places to eat will undoubtedly enhance your Singaporean food adventure. 
