The Best Nasi Lemak in Singapore
Nasi lemak is a traditional Malay dish that consists of fragrant coconut rice, spicy sambal, crispy ikan bilis, roasted peanuts, cucumber slices and a choice of meat or fish. It is widely enjoyed by Singaporeans of all races and backgrounds, and can be found in many hawker centres, food courts and restaurants across the island. But where can you find the best nasi lemak in Singapore? In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most popular and delicious nasi lemak stalls that will satisfy your cravings for this mouthwatering dish.
Some of the factors that make a good nasi lemak are the quality and freshness of the ingredients, the flavour and texture of the rice and sambal, and the variety and portion of the sides. Of course, personal preference also plays a role, as some people may like their nasi lemak more spicy, more sweet, more crispy or more moist. Here are some of the best nasi lemak stalls in Singapore that you should try:
The Makanholic Nasi Lemak aggregated rankings or “ranking of rankings” compared the rankings from the following sources to further ascertain the final rankings. This is further refined using the TripAdvisor rankings to decide between the position in case there is a tie.
No Time to Read? Here’s a Snappy Summary of This Article
- Hawker Centers: Singapore’s best Nasi Lemak can be found in the bustling hawker centers, where a variety of stalls offer this iconic local dish.
- Coconut Rice Perfection: The hallmark of a great Nasi Lemak lies in its fragrant and perfectly cooked coconut-infused rice, which serves as the base for the dish.
- Sambal Sensation: The best Nasi Lemak in Singapore features a sambal sauce that strikes the right balance between spiciness, sweetness, and tanginess, complementing the dish’s other components.
- Crispy Chicken: Juicy and tender on the inside, with a crispy and flavorful coating on the outside, the chicken served with Nasi Lemak should be a highlight of the meal.
- Variety of Accompaniments: From fried anchovies and
Table of Contents
Sources:
- Miss Tam Chiak
- Singapore Foodie
- SethLui
- Timeout
- Tidbits Mag
- HungroGoWhere
- GoodyFeed
- EatBook
- DanielFoodDiary
1. Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak
Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak is well known for their fragrant rice and their sweet and spicy sambal chilli. Top it up with otak-otak (that’s often sold out) or the begedil. Be ready for long queues – you have been warned!
Nasi Lemak
Nasi Lemak is a popular Malaysian and Singaporean dish. It’s made of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with a variety of delicious side dishes like fried chicken, egg, peanuts, and spicy sambal.
Boon Lay’s Twist
Now, what makes Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak stand out is their unique twist on the traditional recipe. Their scrumptious sides and flavorful sambal have won many hearts, making it a local favorite.
⭐⭐⭐ Top of the Makanholic Rankings for fragrant and fantastic nasi lemak that’s almost voted in by all food critics and reiewers
Located in: Boon Lay Place Market and Food Village
Address: #01-106, 221B Boon Lay Pl, Market and Food Centre, 642221
Phone: 6266 4466
Hours:
- Monday 4:30pm–3:30am
- Tuesday 6:30am–3:30am
- Wednesday 6:30am–3:30am
- Thursday 6:30am–3:30am
- Friday 6:30am–3:30am
- Saturday 6:30am–3:30am
- Sunday 6:30am–3:30am
2. Punggol Nasi Lemak
Punggol Nasi Lemak is a renowned heritage brand in Singapore, known for serving one of the country’s most iconic dishes – Nasi Lemak. Established in 1979, Punggol Nasi Lemak has a long history of satisfying customers with its delicious take on this traditional meal [1].
Nasi Lemak is a popular dish in both Malaysia and Singapore, and it consists of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, typically accompanied by a variety of side dishes like fried chicken, egg, peanuts, and spicy sambal. Punggol Nasi Lemak has managed to create a distinct and delectable version of this dish, which has helped the brand become a local favorite.
The Punggol Nasi Lemak has evolved into a franchise business, but their original stall at Upper Serangoon Road still serves delicious Nasi Lemak with the same great fragrant rice and delicious sambal chilli. Queues are expected, especially during meal times and during weekends.
⭐⭐⭐ Affordable and tasty Nasi Lemak with fragrant coconut rice that’s firm. Goes very well with the sambal chilli. Chicken Wings are a hot favourite.
Address: 965 Upper Serangoon Rd, Singapore 534721
Hours:
- Monday 5pm–2am
- Tuesday 5pm–2am
- Wednesday 5pm–2am
- Thursday Closed
- Friday 5pm–2am
- Saturday 5pm–2am
- Sunday 5pm–2am
Phone: 6281 0020
3. Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak
Hey, have you heard about Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak? It’s this amazing place to get some of the best Nasi Lemak in town! If you’re not familiar with Nasi Lemak, it’s a traditional Southeast Asian dish with fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with various side dishes like fried chicken, egg, peanuts, and spicy sambal.
What makes Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak stand out is their dedication to quality and authentic flavors. Trust me, once you try their Nasi Lemak, you’ll be hooked! So, the next time you’re in the mood for something delicious and traditional, give Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak a shot. You won’t be disappointed!
The Prime Minister of Singapore, the Sultan of Brunei and a couple of celebrity chefs have dined at this stall! Treat yourself to the Royal Rumble ($5.90) which has a little of everything — from fragrant fluffy pandan-infused coconut basmati rice to sweet jam-like sambal to a fried yet moist chicken, a buttery bergedil, fried egg, and a nice slab of otak-otak.
⭐⭐⭐ Famous Nasi Lemak stall of Adam Road with the famous basmati coconut rice.
Located in: 2 Adam Rd, #01-02 Food Centre, Singapore 289876
Hours:
- Monday 7am–5pm
- Tuesday 7am–5pm
- Wednesday 7am–5pm
- Thursday 7am–5pm
- Friday Closed
- Saturday 7am–3pm
- Sunday 7am–3pm
4. Chong Pang Nasi Lemak
You know what’s a must-try when you’re craving Nasi Lemak? Chong Pang Nasi Lemak! This spot is a local favorite and serves up some seriously mouth-watering Nasi Lemak. If you haven’t been there, you should definitely check it out.
Their rice is perfectly cooked with just the right amount of coconut milk, and the variety of side dishes is incredible. From crispy fried chicken to tasty fish, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget the sambal – it’s the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, making the whole meal a delightful experience. So, next time you’re around and craving Nasi Lemak, be sure to pay a visit to Chong Pang Nasi Lemak!
While Chong Pang Nasi Lemak is rather inaccessible, it has its share of Nasi Lemak fans who would travel to Sembawang to try it. The sambal chili and fried (crispy) chicken wings are delicious, and also their spicy-sweet ikan billis.
⭐⭐⭐ Your go-to supper place as Chong Pang Nasi Lemak is open from 5pmn to 630am the following day, making it an ideal supper and breakfast Nasi Lemak destination
Location: 447 Sembawang Rd, Singapore 758404
Contact: +65 9655 1868
Hours:
- Monday 5 pm–6:30 am
- Tuesday 5 pm–6:30 am
- Wednesday 5 pm–6:30 am
- Thursday 5 pm–6:30 am
- Friday 5 pm–6:30 am
- Saturday 5 pm–6:30 am
- Sunday 5 pm–6:30 am
5. The Coconut Club
The Coconut Club is a restaurant that specializes in nasi lemak, a traditional Malay dish of coconut rice, sambal, fried chicken, ikan bilis, peanuts and cucumber. The restaurant was founded by three friends who shared a passion for the dish and wanted to create the best possible version using high-quality ingredients and techniques. The restaurant sources its coconuts from a specific plantation in Sabak Bernam, Malaysia, and uses a custom-made machine to extract the coconut milk. The restaurant also serves other dishes that celebrate the coconut, such as rendang, kueh and coconut water.
The Coconut Club has two outlets in Singapore: one on Beach Road and one on Siglap. The Beach Road outlet is the flagship branch that opened in 2021, after the original branch on Ann Siang Hill closed down in 2020. The Beach Road outlet is more spacious and modern, with a bar area and a private dining room. The Siglap outlet is more cosy and casual, with a neighbourhood vibe. Both outlets offer a similar menu, with some variations depending on the availability of ingredients.
Most likely one of the more expensive Nasi Lemak places ranked on Makanholic, The Coconut Club has gathered a following for their delicious and tasty Nasi Lemak with the coconut rice which is full of coconut aroma and flavour. Pay a higher price but enjoy more generous portions of rice and side dishes.
⭐⭐⭐ Your high-end Nasi Lemak at about $12 to $15 per person with a serving of well-marinated fried chicken. Also try their Chendol which is both refreshing and not too sweet.
Location: 28 Ann Siang Rd, Singapore 069708
Contact: +65 6635 2999
Hours:
- Monday 11am–3pm, 6–9:30pm
- Tuesday 11am–3pm, 6–9:30pm
- Wednesday 11am–3pm, 6–9:30pm
- Thursday 11am–3pm, 6–9:30pm
- Friday 11am–3pm, 6–9:30pm
- Saturday 11am–3pm, 6–9:30pm
- Sunday Closed
6. Mizzy Corner
Oh, have you heard about Mizzy Corner? It’s this fantastic spot that offers a wide variety of delicious food options. I’ve been there a few times, and let me tell you, their dishes never disappoint.
One of the reasons people love Mizzy Corner is because of the quality and flavor they put into every meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a scrumptious plate of Nasi Lemak or a tasty bowl of Laksa, they’ve got you covered. Trust me, once you’ve tried their food, you’ll be hooked. So next time you’re out and about, make sure to swing by Mizzy Corner for a memorable dining experience.
There are many famous Nasi Lemak stalls at Changi Village Food Centre, and Mizzi Corner remains the best rated one of the list. They use basmati rice which places the coconut aroma of the dish and also comes with egg, chicken wing and ikan bilis. The chilli is slightly sweeter and goes well with the rice.
⭐⭐⭐ One of the top contenders of the few famous Nasi Lemak stalls at Changi Village
Location: 2 Changi Village Rd, #01-26, Singapore 500002
Contact: +65 9816 4419
Hours:
- Monday 7:30am–1am
- Tuesday 7:30am–1am
- Wednesday 7:30am–1am
- Thursday 7:30am–1am
- Friday 7:30am–1am
- Saturday 7:30am–1am
- Sunday 7:30am–1am
7. Bali Nasi Lemak
You know what’s amazing? Bali Nasi Lemak! I stumbled upon this place recently, and I just can’t stop thinking about their mouth-watering Nasi Lemak. The flavors are so authentic and rich; it’s like taking a trip to Bali with every bite.
The combination of coconut-infused rice, crispy fried chicken, and that irresistible sambal sauce is just out of this world. Plus, the presentation is always on point, making the whole dining experience even more enjoyable. So, if you’re looking for a taste of Bali without the plane ticket, Bali Nasi Lemak is definitely the place to be. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem!
Bali Nasi Lemak was established in Geylang since 1985, and has been featured in many food reviews and guides such as LianHe ZaoBao, The New Paper, Makansutra, The Peak Selections: Gourmet & Travel Magazine, Time Magazine as well as popular food blogs and websites.
⭐⭐⭐ Famous for their signature Black Chicken (Fried chicken in kecap manis)
Location: 2 Lor 15 Geylang, Singapore 388596
Website: http://ilovebali.sg
Contact: +65 6841 4102
Hours:
- Monday 5:30pm–4am
- Tuesday 5:30pm–4am
- Wednesday 5:30pm–4am
- Thursday 5:30pm–4am
- Friday 5:30pm–4am
- Saturday 5:30pm–4am
- Sunday Closed
8. International Muslim Food
I just wanted to share something I discovered recently – International Muslim Food. It’s fascinating how diverse and flavorful Muslim cuisine is, with dishes from all around the world. From the rich and aromatic spices of the Middle East to the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia, there’s just so much to explore and enjoy.
One of the best things about Muslim food is the focus on fresh ingredients and the use of aromatic herbs and spices, which makes every dish a unique culinary experience. Plus, the hospitality and warmth you’ll find at any Muslim eatery are simply unmatched. So, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, I’d highly recommend diving into the world of International Muslim Food – it’s a delicious journey you won’t forget!
International Muslim Food Stall at Changi Village still pulls in the hungry crowds with their fluffy and aromatic jasmine rice, with spicy sweet sambal chilli sauce.
⭐⭐⭐ Incredibly crispy and fragrant chicken wings with a subtle hint of ginger with delicious jasmine rice
Located in: Changi Village Hawker Centre
Location: 2 Changi Village Rd, #01-03, Singapore 500002
Contact: +65 8400 6882
Hours:
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 9am–3pm, 6pm–12am
- Wednesday 9am–3pm, 6pm–12am
- Thursday 9am–3pm, 6pm–12am
- Friday 9am–3pm, 6pm–12am
- Saturday 9am–7pm
- Sunday Closed
9. Old School Canteen
You know what’s really cool? Discovering an old school canteen that brings back memories of simpler times. These retro eateries offer more than just delicious food; they’re a nostalgic trip down memory lane. With classic dishes served up in a cozy atmosphere, these canteens are perfect for reminiscing about the good old days while enjoying a tasty meal.
When you step into an old school canteen, you’ll find yourself surrounded by vintage decor and the warm, inviting vibes of a bygone era. The menu is typically filled with comfort food classics, like hearty soups, sandwiches, and home-style entrees. So if you’re in the mood for some nostalgia and a taste of the past, head to your nearest old school canteen.
Old School Canteen serves Nasi Lemak the traditional way, with a nostalgic backgrop of old tunes and vintage memorabilia. Enjoy their thick sambal chilli and choose from boiled egg, cuttlefish or prawns, together with the usual coconut rice, fried fish, peanuts and anchovies.
⭐⭐⭐ Touted as the old-school Nasi Lemak at Changi Village
Located in: Changi Village Hawker Centre
Location: Blk 3 Changi Village Rd, #01-85, Singapore 500003
Contact: +65 9234 0426
Hours:
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday 9am–3pm
- Wednesday 9am–3pm
- Thursday 9am–3pm
- Friday 9am–3pm
- Saturday 9am–3pm
- Sunday 9am–3pm
10. Village Nasi Lemak
Hey, have you heard of Village Nasi Lemak? It’s a cool place that serves nasi lemak with a modern twist. You know nasi lemak, right? It’s that yummy dish with coconut rice, sambal, fried chicken and other goodies. Well, this place takes it to the next level with some fancy ingredients and techniques. For example, they use basmati rice that is more fluffy and fragrant, and they cook their eggs sous-vide with truffle oil. How awesome is that?
Village Nasi Lemak has two outlets in Singapore: one on Circular Road and one on Holland Village. The Circular Road outlet is more like a bar that also serves Asian tapas at night. You can find dishes like salted egg chicken wings, chilli crab dip with mantou and torched-grilled sotong there. The Holland Village outlet is more like a hawker stall that focuses on nasi lemak sets. You can choose from different meats like chicken wing, chicken drumstick, fish or cuttlefish. Both outlets have their own homemade sambal that is spicy and sweet.
Village Nasi Lemak, after its shift to Circular Road, has tried to keep not only relevant but ahead of the times by reinventing itself. With the inclusion of a truffle poached egg, cucumber cut in thin strips, and the addition of deep fried crispy flour on top of the rice for that added crunchiness, Village Nasi Lemak is slightly pricier but not to the level of The Coconut Club.
⭐⭐⭐ Village Nasi Lemak has moved from Simpang Bedok to Circular Road, where it has been rebranded to be an Asian tapas bar.
Location: 57 Circular Rd, Singapore 049412
Contact: +65 6443 0400
Hours:
- Monday 10am–10pm
- Tuesday 10am–10pm
- Wednesday 10am–10pm
- Thursday 10am–10pm
- Friday 10am–12am
- Saturday Closed
- Sunday Closed
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best Nasi Lemak in Singapore, you can’t go wrong with the hawker centers. These bustling food markets are known for offering a wide variety of delicious local dishes, and Nasi Lemak is definitely one of them. What makes a great Nasi Lemak stand out is its coconut rice. The rice is cooked to perfection, infused with the fragrant aroma of coconut. It forms the flavorful base of the dish, giving it a unique and delightful taste.
But it’s not just about the rice. The sambal sauce is another crucial component that elevates the Nasi Lemak experience. The best Nasi Lemak in Singapore boasts a sambal that strikes the perfect balance between spiciness, sweetness, and tanginess. This sauce adds a kick of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the chicken. A great Nasi Lemak is incomplete without a perfectly cooked piece of chicken. The ideal chicken is juicy and tender on the inside, with a crispy and flavorful coating on the outside. When you take a bite, it’s pure satisfaction. To complete the ensemble, Nasi Lemak is typically served with a variety of accompaniments. From fried anchovies and peanuts to hard-boiled eggs and cucumber slices, these add-ons provide a delightful mix of textures and flavors that complement the dish perfectly.
So, when it comes to finding the best Nasi Lemak in Singapore, make sure to explore the hawker centers. Look for a place that serves up fragrant coconut rice, a delicious sambal sauce, crispy and succulent chicken, and a range of mouthwatering accompaniments. You’ll be in for a treat as you savor the rich and vibrant flavors of this beloved local dish.
In conclusion, Nasi Lemak is an iconic dish in Singapore, and the search for the best one is a delightful culinary adventure. Tropika Club Magazine believes that the best Nasi Lemak experiences can be found in the heart of the city’s vibrant hawker centers. These bustling food markets are the epitome of Singapore’s diverse and rich food culture, offering a wide range of tantalizing flavors. From the fragrant coconut rice to the perfectly balanced sambal sauce, every element of a great Nasi Lemak dish should be a symphony of taste and texture. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring the hawker centers and discovering the hidden gems that serve the best Nasi Lemak is an essential part of experiencing Singapore’s culinary delights. So, grab your friends, follow your nose, and embark on a mouthwatering journey to find your favorite Nasi Lemak spot in Singapore. Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are some famous hawker centers in Singapore known for serving delicious Nasi Lemak?
A: Some famous hawker centers in Singapore known for serving delicious Nasi Lemak include Maxwell Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, and Chomp Chomp Food Centre. These hawker centers are renowned for their wide variety of food stalls and authentic local flavors.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options available for Nasi Lemak in Singapore?
A: Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available for Nasi Lemak in Singapore. Some stalls offer alternatives such as mock meat or tofu as a substitute for traditional chicken. It’s always a good idea to check with the stall or eatery beforehand to ensure they cater to specific dietary preferences.
Q: Can I customize the accompaniments that come with Nasi Lemak?
A: In most cases, you can customize the accompaniments that come with Nasi Lemak. Many stalls allow you to choose from a variety of add-ons such as fried fish, otah (spiced fish cake), or even additional vegetables. It’s best to inquire with the stall if they offer customization options to suit your preferences.
Q: Are there any halal-certified options for Nasi Lemak in Singapore?
A: Yes, there are halal-certified options for Nasi Lemak in Singapore. Numerous stalls and eateries across the city hold halal certifications, ensuring that their Nasi Lemak and other dishes meet the requirements of Muslim dietary guidelines. It’s recommended to look for stalls with the halal certification displayed prominently.
Q: Can I find Nasi Lemak outside of hawker centers?
A: While hawker centers are popular spots to find Nasi Lemak, you can also find it in other types of eateries. Many Malay and Singaporean restaurants, cafes, and even food delivery platforms offer Nasi Lemak as part of their menu. Exploring different dining options allows you to experience a variety of interpretations and flavors of this beloved dish.
Q: Is Nasi Lemak available throughout the day, or is it limited to certain meal times?
A: Nasi Lemak is typically available throughout the day in Singapore. Whether you’re craving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can usually find a stall or eatery serving Nasi Lemak. However, do note that some popular stalls may sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to go earlier in the day to ensure you get your Nasi Lemak fix.
Q: Are there any Nasi Lemak stalls that offer delivery services in Singapore?
A: Yes, there are Nasi Lemak stalls that offer delivery services in Singapore. With the rise of food delivery platforms, you can enjoy the convenience of having Nasi Lemak delivered right to your doorstep. Check popular food delivery apps or the stall’s website for their delivery options and coverage areas.
Q: What are some recommended side dishes or beverages to pair with Nasi Lemak?
A: While Nasi Lemak is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance your dining experience by pairing it with side dishes like fried chicken wings, fried fish, or satay. For beverages, popular choices include refreshing options like coconut water or traditional local drinks such as teh tarik (pulled milk tea) or Bandung (rose syrup milk drink).
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