What: Set beneath a glass canopy, this popular tourist haunt runs alongside a line of renovated shops in traditional buildings. There’s a tempting selection of grilled pork and beef, a variety of seafood and, best of all, succulent slices of roast duck served with noodles.
When: Mon-Sun 11am-11pm
Where: Smith Street, Singapore, 058938
What: This hawker centre is set inside a local park, so you can relax among the flowers while sampling its famous satay skewers: cubes of marinated, barbecued pork served with a delicious peanut sauce. We’d also recommend sharing a few fish balls.
When: Mon-Sun 11.30am-1am
Where: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore, 018953
What: Wonderful views across Marina Bay and a troupe of street entertainers make a visit to this hawker centre memorable. Look out for the stunning barbecued chicken wings and the fiery chilli crab served with a plateful of wholemeal flatbread rotis.
When: Mon-Sun 5pm-2am
Where: 1-15 Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore, 039802
Maxwell Food Centre
What: You might need to queue for a seat at this popular hawker centre but it’s well worth the short wait for the likes of creamy, fried oyster omelettes and steaming bowls of savoury fish broth. The dim sum is also excellent.
When: Mon-Sun 8am-10pm
Where: 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore, 069184
Old Airport Road Food Centre
What: Situated just beyond the city centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre is ideal for avoiding tourists and sampling dishes the locals enjoy. Try the rojak, an Indonesian salad of vegetables and fruit served with char kway teow noodles.
When: Mon-Sun 8am-11pm
Where: 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore, 390051
Tekka Centre
What: The stalls at this three-floor centre serve dishes influenced by the nearby district of Little India. There are dozens of different biryani curries to try; we’d recommend the spiced mutton with vegetables served with crispy poppadoms.
When: Mon-Sun 6.30am-9pm
Where: Bukit Timah Road, Singapore
What: The stalls at this distinctive round building don’t stay open as late as some, but it’s a great choice for anyone in search of a hearty brunch. Top picks include Hainanese chicken, barbecued pork ribs, roast duck with noodles and pancakes with a peanut filling.
When: Mon-Sun 9am-8pm
Where: 30 Seng Poh Road, Singapore, 168898