Welcome to Old Airport Road Food Centre – Singapore’s Hidden Culinary Gem!
Are you in the area around Old Airport Road and craving some of the best hawker food Singapore has to offer? Look no further! Welcome to Old Airport Road Food Centre, a food lover’s paradise where the smells of sizzling local delights fill the air, and each dish promises a burst of flavor at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this iconic food centre is your go-to destination for a true taste of Singapore’s rich culinary heritage. From traditional favorites like Hainanese Chicken Rice to hidden gems like Kueh Pie Tee, every bite here tells the story of Singapore’s vibrant food culture. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, if you haven’t tried these dishes yet, you’re in for a real treat. Join us as we take a tour of the top 10 must-try dishes at Old Airport Road Food Centre, guaranteed to leave you craving more.
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice – A Singaporean Classic
Price: S$5 – S$7
It’s hard to talk about Singaporean food without mentioning the Hainanese Chicken Rice. This dish, often referred to as the country’s national dish, is a staple at every hawker centre. At Old Airport Road Food Centre, one of the best places to savor this dish is at Tian Tian Chicken Rice. The tender, poached chicken served with aromatic rice and accompanied by chili sauce and ginger paste offers an unbeatable combination of flavors.
Why Try It:
- Tender chicken cooked to perfection.
- Fragrant rice, infused with chicken fat for added flavor.
- Perfect balance of heat and freshness from the chili and ginger sauce.
2. Char Kway Teow – Stir-Fried Noodles with a Kick
Price: S$4 – S$6
For lovers of fried noodles, Char Kway Teow is the dish you don’t want to miss. This stir-fried dish, made with flat rice noodles, prawns, eggs, and Chinese sausage, is cooked in a wok at high heat to give it that smoky, charred flavor known as “wok hei.” The version at Old Airport Road is widely praised for its balanced combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Why Try It:
- Smoky wok flavor that’s packed with umami.
- Stir-fried to perfection with just the right level of crispiness.
- A satisfying and hearty dish that will leave you full.
3. Laksa – A Spicy, Creamy Coconut Noodle Soup
Price: S$4 – S$6
Singapore’s Laksa is a fusion of Chinese and Malay cuisine, offering a creamy, spicy noodle soup that’s both rich and comforting. The Old Airport Road Food Centre version is served piping hot with a rich, coconut-based broth filled with prawns, egg noodles, and a good dose of chili. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a good kick of spice with their food.
Why Try It:
- Rich, creamy coconut broth that’s both spicy and comforting.
- Topped with prawns, egg noodles, and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Perfect for spice lovers!
4. Satay – Grilled Skewers of Tender Meat
Price: S$0.80 – S$1.50 per skewer
If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Singaporean street food, look no further than Satay. These skewers of marinated chicken, beef, or lamb are grilled over an open flame and served with a rich, peanut-based dipping sauce. The Old Airport Road Food Centre satay stall offers some of the best skewers in town, perfect for an appetizer or snack.
Why Try It:
- Smoky, tender meat with a flavorful marinade.
- Served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce that complements the satay perfectly.
- Great for sharing or as a light bite.
5. Wanton Mee – A Bowl of Comfort
Price: S$4 – S$6
For a comforting bowl of noodles, Wanton Mee is a favorite. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of thin egg noodles, served with dumplings (wantons), char siew (roast pork), and leafy greens. The version here at Old Airport Road Food Centre is celebrated for its tender noodles and rich, savory sauce, making it a must-try for noodle enthusiasts.
Why Try It:
- Flavorful broth that is perfectly balanced.
- Soft dumplings filled with seasoned pork.
- A satisfying, comfort food classic.
6. Rojak – A Sweet and Savory Fruit and Vegetable Salad
Price: S$4 – S$5
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try Rojak. This unique local salad combines a medley of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fried dough fritters, all drizzled with a tangy, sweet, and spicy tamarind-based sauce. The contrast of textures, from crispy fritters to soft fruit, makes Rojak a fun and flavorful dish to enjoy.
Why Try It:
- Sweet, savory, and spicy flavors all in one dish.
- A refreshing and healthy option in the midst of heavy dishes.
- A great choice for those looking for something light and unique.
7. Fish Soup – Healthy and Light with Flavorful Broth
Price: S$4 – S$6
For those who prefer a lighter, healthier meal, Fish Soup is an excellent choice. The dish consists of tender fish slices served in a clear, flavorful broth, along with a side of rice. The version at Old Airport Road Food Centre is renowned for its light, aromatic broth and the delicate taste of the fish, making it the perfect option for a comforting yet light meal.
Why Try It:
- Light and refreshing broth that doesn’t feel heavy.
- Fresh fish slices were cooked perfectly.
- Ideal for anyone craving a healthy meal.
8. Chwee Kueh – A Delightful Steamed Rice Cake
Price: S$2.50 – S$4
Chwee Kueh, or steamed rice cakes, may not be as well-known as some other dishes, but it’s one of Singapore’s underrated gems. At Old Airport Road Food Centre, you’ll find fluffy rice cakes topped with savory preserved radish and served with a spicy chili sauce. It’s a unique and satisfying dish that combines both sweetness and spice in every bite.
Why Try It:
- Soft, steamed rice cakes with a savory topping.
- A unique, satisfying snack that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon bite.
- Great balance of textures with a slight crunch from the preserved radish.
Check: 7 Best Mooncake Suppliers in Singapore for Mid-Autumn Festival 2025
9. Hokkien Mee – Stir-Fried Noodles with a Seafood Twist
Price: S$5 – S$7
For seafood lovers, Hokkien Mee is a must. The dish features stir-fried noodles served with a variety of seafood, such as prawns and squid, in a savory broth. The Old Airport Road Food Centre version is famed for its rich flavor, thanks to the combination of seafood and a rich, fragrant broth that infuses the noodles with the perfect amount of taste.
Why Try It:
- Delicious stir-fried noodles with fresh seafood.
- Perfect balance of savory flavors and seafood sweetness.
- A rich broth that makes each bite more flavorful.
10. Kueh Pie Tee – Crispy, Flavorful, and Full of Delight
Price: S$4 – S$6
Kueh Pie Tee are crispy pastry cups filled with a flavorful mix of stir-fried vegetables and prawns. This dish is light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making it an excellent option for anyone craving something a little more unique. It’s also a great appetizer or snack when you’re in the mood for a burst of flavor without feeling too full.
Why Try It:
- Crunchy and delicious pastry shell.
- Packed with flavorful stir-fried vegetables and prawns.
- A unique and satisfying bite-sized snack.
Conclusion
From popular dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice to hidden gems like Kueh Pie Tee, Old Airport Road Food Centre is a must-visit for food lovers. Each stall offers a taste of Singapore’s rich food culture, mixing traditional and modern flavors. Whether you’re a local searching for your next favorite dish or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Singaporean food, this food centre has something for everyone
Address:
Old Airport Road Food Centre
51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051
Make sure to bring your appetite, because once you set foot in this culinary haven, you’ll be overwhelmed with a variety of flavors waiting to delight your taste buds.
Ready to experience Singapore’s culinary heritage? Visit Old Airport Road Food Centre and indulge in these must-try dishes that define the very essence of Singapore’s food culture. And, don’t forget to share your food adventures with your friends—after all, a meal this delicious is always worth sharing!