The Gourmet Art of Living in Singapore
Dive into Asia’s most vibrant culinary melting pot. From Michelin-starred street food to fine-dining restaurants, discover how to savour every moment of your expatriate life.
A Sensory Odyssey
Singapore is not just a global financial centre; above all, it is a gastronomic capital where eating is elevated to the status of a national sport. For a French-speaking expat, culinary discovery is often the first step towards successful integration. Here, Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western influences collide to create a fusion unlike any other in the world.
As you explore the streets of the city-state, you will smell the aroma of coconut milk infused into Laksa, the earthy fragrance of turmeric in Biryani, and the comforting tenderness of perfectly prepared Chicken Rice. This diversity reflects the island’s history itself: a free port where cultures have mingled over the centuries.
To fully understand this dynamic, we recommend consulting our Complete Guide to Living Well in Singapore, which places food at the heart of residents’ daily lives.
The Top Local Specialities
"If you haven’t tried these dishes, you haven’t quite arrived in Singapore yet."
Hainanese Chicken Rice
The unofficial national dish. Exceptionally tender poached chicken served with fragrant rice seasoned with garlic, ginger and chicken stock.
Chilli Crab
The king of seafood. A rich, spicy tomato sauce to enjoy with fried mantous.
Laksa
A noodle soup with curry and coconut milk. The Katong version is an absolute must.
Satay & Roti Prata
Wood-fire-grilled skewers and flaky Indian pancakes. Perfect for a relaxed dinner under the stars.
Hawker Centres: The Soul of the City
Listed as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, Hawker Centres are much more than food courts. They are modern village squares where CEOs and workers sit side by side to enjoy SGD 5 dishes. They are often found in the basements of large shopping centres, between two shops: see our Singapore shopping guide.
Tips for Beginners
- ✔ "Chope": Reserve your seat with a packet of tissues on the table before ordering.
- ✔ Queues: The golden rule? The longer the queue, the better the dish.
- ✔ Returning trays: It is compulsory. Look for the "Tray Return" stations.
For more information about organising your new life, see our page on Daily Life in Singapore.
Maxwell Food Centre
Famous for its Tian Tian Chicken Rice, recommended by the Michelin Guide.
Old Airport Road
A purist favourite for Lor Mee noodles and fried oysters.
Lau Pa Sat
Magnificent Victorian architecture. Don’t miss Satay Street from 19:00.
Food Budget Calculator
Estimate your monthly food expenditure based on your lifestyle.
Estimated Monthly Budget
Note: Based on 2026 averages, including local inflation.
For a more detailed analysis of your overall expenditure, visit our Budget and Cost of Living page.
Beyond Street Food: Gastronomic Excellence
Singapore now rivals Tokyo, Paris and New York for the title of world gastronomic capital. The city-state is home to revolutionary concepts, bold fusion cuisines and establishments run by some of the world’s leading international chefs.
Innovation is everywhere. You will find restaurants such as Odette, a flagship of modern French gastronomy, and Candlenut, the first Peranakan restaurant in the world to receive a Michelin star. The experience is not limited to the plate; it extends to the design of the venues, which is often breathtaking, set atop skyscrapers or in the heart of renovated colonial buildings.
Fusion Cuisine
The art of combining Western techniques with Asian flavours (umami, spices and textures).
Creative Mixology
Some of the best bars in the world (such as Atlas) can be found here.
Table Etiquette: Avoiding Faux Pas
Sharing
In Asian culture, dishes are generally placed in the centre of the table to be shared. Do not use your own chopsticks to serve others; use the serving chopsticks (usually a different colour).
Chopsticks
Never stand your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice. This recalls the incense sticks burned at funerals and is considered a bad omen. Place them on the chopstick rest or lay them flat.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Singapore. Most restaurants already add a 10% service charge (Service Charge) and 9% tax (GST). The displayed price "++" means that both will be added to the bill.
To learn more about local customs, consult our Guide to Cultural Particularities.
Cooking at Home
Where to find the taste of France and the best fresh produce in Singapore.
Expat Shopping
Sometimes, a good baguette or mature cheese is just what you need to lift your spirits. Stores such as Cold Storage and FairPrice Finest offer a wide range of imported products. For specific needs:
- ● Little Farms: Excellent meat and fresh produce from Australia.
- ● Culinary French Stores: Shops specialising in French wines and regional products.
- ● RedMart: The local equivalent for large online grocery shops.
Farmers' Markets (Wet Markets)
For an authentic experience and unbeatable prices on fruit, vegetables and fish, head to the "Wet Markets" (such as the one in Tiong Bahru).
Tip: Arrive early (before 9am) for the best produce. Bring cash, even though many now accept PayNow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Food
Ready to explore the flavours of Singapore?
Share your best recommendations or ask questions on our community forum and connect with other foodie expats.