Must-Try Foods In Bugis And Kampong Glam (Singapore) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bugis and Kampong Glam, Singapore

The food history of Bugis and Kampong Glam in Singapore is an exhilarating tapestry of cultures and flavors. Once a seat of Malay royalty, Kampong Glam has a rich heritage that's evident in its traditional Malay and Middle Eastern cuisine. With the arrival of Arab traders, spices and rich flavors became hallmark offerings in the area. Bugis, now a buzzing commercial hub, was named after the Bugis seafarers from Sulawesi who were known for their culinary prowess.

Over the years, the influence of Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisines have seeped into the local food scene, creating a fascinating fusion that excites the palate. Hawker centers, cafes, and restaurants serve an array of dishes that are unique to Singapore’s culinary landscape, propelled by the diversity of ethnic groups residing in this vibrant neighborhood.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Bugis and Kampong Glam, Singapore

1. Murtabak (Non-Veg) - This is a stuffed pancake filled with minced meat, typically served with curry and cucumber pickle on the side.
2. Nasi Padang (Veg & Non-Veg options available) - A variety of pre-cooked dishes served with steamed rice originating from Sumatra. Vegetarian options are typically limited but available.
3. Laksa (Non-Veg) - A spicy noodle soup with a base of creamy coconut milk, usually comprising ingredients like shrimp or fishcakes.
4. Hainanese Chicken Rice (Non-Veg) - This dish features poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with chili sauce and usually comes with a vegetable side.
5. Falafel (Veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, commonly served in a pita or wrapped in a flatbread with salad and tahini sauce.
6. Briyani (Veg & Non-Veg options available) - A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and typically served with chicken or mutton. Vegetarian versions are also available with vegetables or paneer.
7. Roti Prata (Veg) - A fried flatbread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with a vegetable curry.
8. Satay (Non-Veg) - Skewered and grilled meat, served with peanut sauce, rice cakes, and a small serving of a cucumber-onion salad.
9. Tau Huay (Veg) - Soft soybean pudding typically served with a sweet syrup and sometimes with glutinous rice balls.
10. Kueh (Veg) - This refers to a variety of bite-sized snacks or desserts, which can be sweet or savory.

Top Famous Restaurants in Bugis and Kampong Glam

• Zam Zam Restaurant
  Address: 697-699 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198675
  Famous Food: Murtabak (Non-Veg)
• Warong Nasi Pariaman
  Address: 738 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198706
  Famous Food: Nasi Padang (Veg & Non-Veg options available)
• 328 Katong Laksa
  Address: 53 East Coast Road, Singapore 428771 (several branches)
  Famous Food: Laksa (Non-Veg)
• Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
  Address: #01-10/11 Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur St, Singapore 069184
  Famous Food: Hainanese Chicken Rice (Non-Veg)
• Working Title - Burger Bar
  Address: 783 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198751
  Famous Food: Handcrafted Burgers (Veg & Non-Veg options available)
• The Mad Sailors
  Address: 24 Haji Lane, Singapore 189217
  Famous Food: British Fish & Chips (Non-Veg)
• Mrs Pho
  Address: 349 Beach Road, Singapore 199570
  Famous Food: Pho (Veg & Non-Veg options available)
• Alaturka Mediterranean & Turkish Restaurant
  Address: 15 Bussorah Street, Singapore 199436
  Famous Food: Kebabs and Falafel (Veg & Non-Veg options available)
• Symmetry
  Address: 9 Jalan Kubor #01-01, Singapore 199206
  Famous Food: Brunch Items and Coffee (Veg & Non-Veg options available)
• The Coconut Club
  Address: 6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787
  Famous Food: Nasi Lemak (Non-Veg)