Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone who just appreciates a good meal, moving from the UK to Singapore opens the door to an exciting culinary scene. Singapore blends tradition, innovation and multiculturalism into every meal, creating a huge array of dishes, flavours and cuisine. From beloved local dishes to familiar British comforts, Singapore really does tick every culinary box.

Singapore is a Food Obsessed City

There are a lot of cultural differences between Singapore and the UK, but a shared obsession with food isn’t one of them. Food is more than sustenance in Singapore, it’s somewhat of a national pastime. It’s a conversation starter and a source of cultural pride, with foodie locals and no shortage of things to try. What makes Singapore’s food scene so unique is its incredible diversity. With a population made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian and European communities, the city’s cuisine is a reflection of its multicultural heritage.

Regardless of where you’re living in Singapore, you’ll see dishes from around the world, influenced by a whole host of different cultures, cooking styles and flavours. There’s a lot of Southeast Asian flavours in Singapore, but the city is also a hub for international cuisine. You’ll find plenty of options across the island including Japanese, Korean, European and Indian cuisine.

Traditional Singaporean Dishes You Have to Try

There’s a lot of delicious food in Singapore, and there’s something for everyone. But, a few stand out as being ‘must try’ Singaporean dishes for newcomers. Once you’ve organised your removals to Singapore, and you’ve found somewhere to live, focus your attention on these popular dishes.

• Hainanese Chicken Rice – This is one of the most iconic dishes in Singapore and though simple, it’s extremely satisfying. It features tender poached chicken, fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and a trio of sauces; chilli, ginger and dark soy. You’ll find this dish everywhere, from hawker stalls to high-end restaurants.

• Laksa – Laksa is a rich, spicy noodle soup that blends Chinese and Malay flavours. It’s typically made with rice noodles, coconut milk, prawns or chicken and chilli paste. It’s comforting and packed with flavour.

• Chilli Crab – A messy, hands-on dish and a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Mud crabs are stir fried in a sweet, savoury and spicy tomato-based sauce, and then served with deep-fried mantou buns to mop up every drop.

• Char Kway Teow – This is a smoky stir fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, egg, prawns, Chinese sausage and bean sprouts. It’s traditionally cooked over high heat in a wok for a signature charred feel.

• Nasi Lemak – Nasi lemak is a fragrant Malay dish consisting of coconut rice served with fried anchovies, peanuts, egg, cucumber and spicy sambal. Some people add extras, such as fried chicken or grilled fish cake.

• Roti Prata – An Indian-inspired flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It’s often eaten with fish or mutton curry, or even with sugar or condensed milk for a sweet version.

• Satay – Satay is a foodie favourite, and it’s hard to say no to grilled skewers of marinated meat, served with a rich peanut sauce, rice cakes and cucumber. A great option for sharing, especially at night markets and hawker centres.

Singapore’s Hawker Culture

One of the biggest culinary adjustments when you move from the UK to Singapore might be the casual nature of dining out in Singapore. Forget fancy tablecloths and quiet restaurants, a lot of local food culture is centred around Singapore’s hawker centres. These open-air food courts are scattered across the city, offering an enormous variety of affordable, high quality food.

Hawker centres are large, covered spaces filled with dozens of individual food stalls, each specialising in a particular dish or type of cuisine. Every hawker has their own niche. One stall might only serve chicken rice, while another focuses solely on noodles or freshly made roti prata. This specialisation means that you’re guaranteed a delicious meal, whatever you choose.

Where to Find British Food in Singapore

You might be an adventurous eater, someone who can’t wait to tuck into Singapore’s local food. But, you might eventually crave a taste of home. Fortunately, Singapore caters well to its expat community. M&S has several locations throughout Singapore, where you’ll find UK staples like: biscuits and shortbread, sausages and bacon, tea, jam and condiments.

There are also a number of restaurants and pubs in the city serving British dishes. Singapore’s pub scene offers a nostalgic touch of the UK, and many serve traditional pub grum and often air British sports. There’s also a lot of British food to be found in supermarkets, and online grocers are also an option. You won’t be left craving your favourite comfort foods when you’re in Singapore.

Preparing for a Move to Singapore

Moving to Singapore means diving headfirst into one of the most vibrant and diverse food cultures in the world. Of course, settling into a new country isn’t just about the food, it’s about making the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. That’s where a trusted international removals service can make a real difference, like United International Removals. With our experts handling your packing, shipping and logistics, you’ll have more time and peace of mind to explore your new city. Get in touch to find out more.