Singaporeans take breakfast seriously — and nowhere is this morning ritual more alive than in the bustling hawker centres across the island. From traditional kopi to crispy prata, every dish tells a story of culture, flavor, and community. Whether you’re a traveler exploring local tastes or a foodie searching for authentic morning bites, this guide highlights the breakfast dishes locals truly love.
1 – Kaya Toast with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A classic Singapore breakfast that never goes out of style. Kaya Toast features thin slices of toasted bread filled with kaya – a coconut-and-pandan jam – and a slab of cold butter.
The perfect pairing? Two soft-boiled eggs seasoned with dark soy sauce and pepper, plus a cup of kopi or teh.
Best enjoyed at: Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Tong Ah Eating House, or any old-school kopitiam.
2 – Roti Prata
Crispy on the outside and soft inside, Roti Prata is a South Indian-inspired flatbread served with fish or curry gravy.
Popular variations include egg prata, cheese prata, onion prata — and for dessert lovers, banana prata or chocolate prata.
Best enjoyed at: Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Prata, Tekka Centre stalls.
3 – Nasi Lemak
A fragrant Malaysian classic widely loved in Singapore. Nasi Lemak consists of coconut rice, crispy ikan bilis, peanuts, sambal, cucumber, and a fried chicken wing or otah.
It’s hearty, aromatic, and perfect for those who want a strong start to the day.
Best enjoyed at: Adam Road Food Centre, Changi Village Hawker Centre.
4 – Mee Rebus
This comforting dish features yellow noodles in a thick gravy made from sweet potatoes, spices, and fermented beans.
Topped with a hard-boiled egg, fried shallots, green chilli, and lime, Mee Rebus delivers a sweet-spicy flavor that locals adore.
Best enjoyed at: Haig Road Market, Geylang Serai.
5 – Economic Bee Hoon
An affordable morning staple, Economic Bee Hoon consists of thin rice vermicelli served with sides like fried eggs, luncheon meat, sausage, spring rolls, and vegetables.
It’s simple, filling, and customizable — perfect for everyday breakfast.
Best enjoyed at: Almost any neighborhood hawker centre.
6 – Chwee Kueh
A Teochew breakfast delight, Chwee Kueh is a steamed rice cake topped with savoury preserved radish (chai poh) and chilli.
It’s soft, slightly chewy, and incredibly satisfying when fresh from the steamer.
Best enjoyed at: Bedok Chwee Kueh, Tiong Bahru Market.
7 – You Tiao with Kopi or Soy Milk
You Tiao, or Chinese fried dough sticks, are crispy, airy, and addictive. Locals often enjoy them dipped in kopi, soy milk, or porridge for a comforting breakfast.
Best enjoyed at: Traditional hawker breakfast stalls and kopi shops.
8 – Fishball Noodles
Light yet flavorful, fishball noodles come dry or in soup, typically served with bouncy fishballs, sambal, and springy noodles.
Many Singaporeans prefer this for a non-greasy start to the day.
Best enjoyed at: Chinatown Complex, Amoy Street Food Centre.
9 – Carrot Cake (Chai Tow Kway)
Not the sweet Western cake — Singapore’s “carrot cake” is made from radish and rice flour, fried with eggs, garlic, and preserved radish.
Two versions exist: white (crispy and savory) and black (sweet with dark soy sauce).
Best enjoyed at: Zion Road, Redhill Food Centre.
10 – Congee (Rice Porridge)
Warm, silky congee is a comforting choice for breakfast. Topped with sliced pork, century egg, fried dough, or fish, it’s gentle on the stomach and deeply satisfying.
Best enjoyed at: Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1 – Are Singapore hawker breakfasts expensive?
Not at all. Most breakfast dishes cost between SGD 2.50 and SGD 6.50, making them affordable and filling.
2 – What time do hawker centres open for breakfast?
Many hawker centres open at 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM, and some popular stalls sell out by mid-morning.
For the freshest dishes, arrive early!
3 – What drinks do locals enjoy with breakfast?
Kopi (local coffee), teh (milk tea), milo, barley, and soy milk are the most popular choices.
4 – Is hawker centre food safe for tourists?
Yes — hawker centres follow strict hygiene rules. Singapore is known for clean and safe street food.
5 – Are vegetarian breakfast options available?
Definitely. Look for vegetarian bee hoon, dosa, idli, soy milk, and meat-free congee stalls.