Michelin on a Backpacker Budget: A Hawker Cheap-Eats Crawl

★★★Madiha· a month ago“Decent spot for variety, but not for those craving familiar Pakistani flavours Visited Lau Pa Sat (Lay Pa Sat) recently in Singapore. It’s a lively and iconic hawker centre with plenty of options and a nice atmosphere, especially in the evening when the streets are closed off for dining. We tried the halal stall and ordered chicken rice noodles, chicken basil vegetables, and tea tree something. While the portions were generous and the service was quick, the overall taste was quite different from what we expected. Everything had a strong seafood-like flavour profile (even the non-seafood items), which didn’t really appeal to us as I can’t stand sea food smell. It felt quite far from Pakistani taste preferences – the spices, seasoning, and balance were very different. If you’re in the mood to explore local Singaporean or Southeast Asian hawker food and try new things, Lau Pa Sat is a great place with lots of variety. However, if you’re particular about your food and want something closer to Pakistani cuisine, this might not be the best choice. Cleanliness was just fine for a busy hawker centre, and the pricing was reasonable. Good for tourists or casual explorers, but we probably won’t rush back.”

★★★★★Franco Migliorati· 4 months ago“fantastic place to grab some food and/or beer. Famous for the skewers on the street, especially the chicken satay. Plenty of options to choose from, Indian, Arabic, Chinese, Singaporean, etc. There's something for everyone. Good ventilation and plenty of tables but the place is always packed and noisy (it doesn't take away the enjoyment). A must to visit.”

★★★★★Piotr Treter· 5 months ago“There's no need to write much about this place; you simply must stop in for a fantastic meal. There are plenty of street food joints offering a variety of Asian cuisines. Everything is perfectly seasoned, with plenty to choose from, so everyone should easily find something to their liking. And the prices are very affordable by Singaporean standards.”

★★★★★Trang Nguyen· 3 months ago“Lau Pa Sat: A must-visit for the lively night vibe! I visited at 9 PM on a Friday, and it was absolutely crowded! The energy outside on Satay Street was incredible, with everyone enjoying grilled food in the open air. Inside the historic building, there are plenty of food stalls to choose from. The Drinks: One thing to watch out for is that there are very few drink stalls, so the lines are very long. I bought an Iced Mango Peach ($2.80), but I wouldn't recommend it. It was extremely sweet and didn't contain any fresh fruit—it tasted mostly like syrup. I suggest skipping the "juices" here if you want something fresh. The Food & Service: I tried the Thunder Tea Rice ($6.20). It was okay, though it didn't quite fit my personal taste. After eating, the service is efficient; you can either clear your own tray or wait for the staff who come by frequently to collect them. The Verdict: It is very crowded and noisy with loud music, but it’s a "must-visit" to experience the local Singaporean vibe. Just be prepared for the crowds!”

★★★★★herdarksecret· 2 months ago“Tried Na Na Curry at Lau Pa Sat because saw that they are awarded Michelin Bib Gourmand 10 years in a row! Their chicken curry is rich, slightly creamy, and super comforting. The spices are well-balanced, not too heavy but still very satisfying. The chicken is tender and soaks up the curry nicely, making every bite flavourful. Pairs really well with both the rice and roti prata!”

★★★★★Jackpot· 3 months ago“Sultan Mosque in Singapore is an iconic landmark and a must-visit for anyone interested in culture and architecture. The mosque’s golden domes and intricate details are truly breathtaking, reflecting rich Islamic heritage. The surrounding area, Kampong Glam, is vibrant with colorful streets, local shops, and cafes, making the visit even more enjoyable. The mosque is well-maintained, peaceful, and welcoming to visitors. Non-Muslims are allowed to visit outside prayer times, and there are informative displays that provide insight into its history and significance. Photography is allowed in designated areas, allowing you to capture its beauty. Overall, Sultan Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a cultural gem in Singapore, offering a deep sense of history and artistry. Highly recommended for travelers and culture enthusiasts alike.”

★★★★★TooGood· 6 months ago“Sultan Mosque, located in the heart of Arab Street, is one of Singapore’s most iconic and beautiful mosques. Its large golden dome and white exterior stand out beautifully, and the contrast with the colorful shophouses around it makes it very photogenic. Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the mosque. If your legs are exposed, such as when wearing shorts or a skirt, a covering skirt is provided free of charge at the entrance, so you can visit without worry. When I visited, the staff at the reception was Japanese and kindly assisted us in Japanese, which was very reassuring. They also explained the rules and background of the mosque in a friendly and easy-to-understand way, making it very welcoming to visitors. Inside, the atmosphere is calm and serene, quite different from the lively streets outside. It is a peaceful place worth visiting while exploring Arab Street.”

★★★★★Taha Zaidi· 3 months ago“This is the most well known mosque in Singapore and is located in the heart of its lovely Arab quarter. Dating back originally to 1826, it is built in a fusion of Indian and Arab architectural design and with a spacious interior. It is open for Muslim worshippers who wish to pray as well as for guided tours for non Muslims in multiple languages. I found the management very friendly and welcoming.”

★★★★★Daniel· 4 months ago“The staff there is extremely friendly and runs guided tours 4 times a day. All free of charge. They show you some areas that are not open to regular visit and explain you the basics of Islam and how they pray. Remember that the temple is closed to visits on friday and during lunch time.”

★★★★★Ravindra Indrajith· 2 months ago“​I visited the Sultan Mosque area during a short leg of my Singapore trip. Even though it was quite crowded on the weekend, the mosque remains an amazing historical landmark and a must-see. ​Highlights. ​Atmosphere: Despite the weekend rush, the area felt incredibly peaceful and respectful. ​Architecture: It is a stunning piece of history with a grand presence—perfect for those interested in Singapore’s cultural heritage. ​Timing: I didn't stay long, but the area is very accessible for a quick visit. ​ ​A beautiful, significant landmark that captures a vital part of Singapore’s history. Well worth stopping by, even if you are short on time!”