A Culinary and Cultural Journey Through Singapore

A Leisurely Start and a Toast to Tradition

After a long day of travel, we allowed ourselves a slow morning, savoring breakfast at our hotel before embarking on a food-centered adventure. Our first stop: a classic kaya toast shop.

Kaya toast is a beloved Singaporean breakfast—crispy or fluffy toast slathered with kaya, a coconut-based jam, and dipped into soft-boiled eggs with a splash of soy sauce. The unexpected combination of sweetness, saltiness, and the velvety texture of the eggs was a revelation. Alongside, we sampled kopi, Singapore’s take on coffee. The variations in milk and sugar create an entire lexicon of kopi styles. While the milk tea was predictably smooth, the coffee was strikingly bold—its deep, dark hue a forewarning of its intensity.

A Journey Through Time: National Museum of Singapore

Next, we delved into Singapore’s past at the National Museum of Singapore, the country’s oldest museum, dating back to 1887. Its exhibitions trace the evolution of Singapore from a British colony to a thriving metropolis.

• Singapore History Gallery – A dynamic showcase of Singapore’s transformation, featuring immersive exhibits from the colonial era to modern independence.

• Surviving Syonan – A poignant display of life under Japanese occupation (1942–1945) and the resilience of its people.

• Voices of Singapore – An exploration of the country’s multicultural heritage, highlighting Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian influences.

• Modern Colony & Growing Up – A nostalgic look at early 20th-century daily life, fashion, and pop culture.

• Singapore, the Next Chapter – A glimpse into Singapore’s ambitious urban planning and sustainability efforts.

The museum’s interactive displays and rich storytelling made it an engaging experience, even for those without a deep background in history.

A Serendipitous Dumpling Stop

Although our next planned destination was Little India, we were lured by the irresistible aroma of dumplings. We found ourselves in a small shop serving two styles—one in a Hong Kong-style broth and another with a rich peanut sauce. Each bite of these plump, juicy dumplings was an absolute delight, making this unplanned stop one of the most memorable moments of the day.

The Vibrancy of Little India

Little India is a neighborhood that pulsates with color, spice, and tradition. It’s a place where the essence of India flourishes in the heart of Singapore.

Why Does Little India Exist?

In the 19th century, Indian immigrants settled in this area, originally a cattle trading hub. The British colonial government also brought Indian laborers to support Singapore’s development, leading to the growth of a strong Indian community.

Must-Visit Spots in Little India

• Tekka Centre: A bustling market brimming with spices and local food.

• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple: The oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, dedicated to the goddess Kali.

• Mustafa Centre: A 24-hour shopping paradise.

• Diwali Celebrations: If you visit during Deepavali (the Festival of Lights), the entire district glows with vibrant illuminations.

A South Indian Feast at Ananda Bhavan Vegetarian

For lunch, we sought out Ananda Bhavan Vegetarian, drawn by the promise of an authentic South Indian meal served on a banana leaf. This was a personal quest—a continuation of our trip to India, where we had struggled to find a place that still served banana leaf meals.

Accompanied by a traditional buttermilk drink, the meal was a symphony of flavors. The buttermilk, unlike the familiar sweetness of mango lassi, was refreshingly spiced with cardamom, adding a unique depth. The restaurant was packed with Indian locals, a sure sign of authenticity. However, we couldn’t ignore the price—ten times what we had paid in India! A reminder that, for an affordable feast, India remains unbeatable.

A Visit to the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Standing majestically in the heart of Little India, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of Singapore’s most significant Hindu temples, dedicated to Kali, the goddess of destruction and renewal.

Key Features:

• Gopuram (Temple Tower): A strikingly colorful and intricate entrance tower.

• Kali’s Iconography: The goddess is depicted wearing a garland of skulls, wielding swords—an image both fearsome and powerful.

• A Place of Strength: Having survived wartime bombings, the temple is considered a powerful protector.

Many devotees prayed with deep devotion, and both my husband and I found ourselves moved by their faith and the temple’s spiritual energy.

Sultan Mosque: A Glimpse of Singapore’s Islamic Heritage

Our next stop was Sultan Mosque, Singapore’s largest and most iconic mosque, located in the heart of the Arab Quarter.

Highlights:

• Golden Dome: A striking landmark visible from afar.

• Historical Significance: Built in 1824 for Sultan Hussein Shah, the mosque is a national monument.

• Stained Glass Windows: A gift from Queen Victoria, adding an unexpected European touch.

Unfortunately, we arrived too late—entry closed at 4:00 PM. While we couldn’t step inside, the grandeur of the mosque’s exterior and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Arab Street made the visit worthwhile.

Nearby, Turkish restaurants lined the streets, tempting us with the promise of rich, exotic flavors.

Turkish Delights at Sultan Turkish Restaurant

We couldn’t resist stopping for dessert at Sultan Turkish Restaurant, where we indulged in Künefe—a warm, syrupy pastry filled with melted cheese and topped with pistachios. Watching the milk being poured over it only added to the anticipation.

Alongside, we enjoyed Hummus bi Lahm (hummus with lamb) and Muttabbal (a smoky eggplant dip), served with fluffy pita bread. The combination of creamy hummus, juicy lamb, and aromatic spices transported us straight to the Middle East.

The food was outstanding, but what stood out even more was the enthusiasm of the restaurant staff. Their ability to engage passing tourists without being intrusive was a masterclass in hospitality.

A Night of Hawker Feasting at Newton Food Centre

Originally, we had planned to catch a night show, but with so many international cuisines to explore, we opted for another feast instead. Newton Food Centre, one of Singapore’s most famous hawker centers, was the perfect place to end our day.

As we wandered through the stalls, we ran into my husband’s coworker, who invited us to try Michelin-listed satay. The skewers were packed with flavor, and the peanut-based dipping sauce added an irresistible sweet-savory contrast.

We also sampled beer, seafood noodles, and a spicy basil stir-fry. Sharing dishes made the experience even more enjoyable, and contrary to our expectations, the food center was lively yet not overly crowded—perhaps because it was a Monday.

A Quirky Singaporean Law: No Alcohol After 10:30 PM

On our way back, we stopped by a convenience store for a nightcap, only to find that alcohol sales are strictly cut off at 10:30 PM. The refrigerators were locked, enforcing Singapore’s regulations on public drinking. While a surprise, it reinforced the country’s commitment to order and safety.

So, we settled for water as our late-night drink and wrapped up our adventure.

A Short but Fulfilling Singapore Trip

Our two-night, three-day journey through Singapore was packed with culinary delights, cultural immersion, and unexpected discoveries. From savoring diverse cuisines to witnessing the city’s rich heritage, every moment was an experience to remember.

Singapore may be small, but its depth is immense—leaving us with a longing to return for more.