If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine, Zi Char is the way to go. Zi Char is a Hokkien term that translates to “cook and fry,” and it’s a popular dining style in Singapore. Zi Char dishes are typically stir-fried and served family-style, making them great for sharing with friends and family.
Zi Char restaurants are known for their affordable prices and delicious food. Some of the iconic Zi Char dishes that you can find in Singapore include chili crab, cereal prawns, and sambal stingray.
With so many Zi Char places to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to go. The good news is that we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the top Zi Char places in Singapore. Keep reading to find out where you can get the best Zi Char dishes in Singapore.
Key Takeaways
- Zi Char is a popular dining style in Singapore that offers traditional Chinese cuisine.
- Iconic Zi Char dishes in Singapore include chili crab, cereal prawns, and sambal stingray.
- We’ve compiled a list of the top Zi Char places in Singapore to help you decide where to go.
What is Zi Char?
If you’re a Singaporean foodie, you’ve probably heard of zi char. Zi char is a type of Chinese cuisine that is typically served at hawker centres or coffee shops. It is known for its affordable prices and delicious flavours, making it a popular choice among locals.
The term “zi char” literally means “cook and fry” in Hokkien, a Chinese dialect commonly spoken in Singapore. Zi char dishes are typically prepared by stir-frying ingredients in a wok with various sauces and spices. Some of the most popular zi char dishes include:
- Salted egg yolk crab
- Cereal prawns
- Sambal kangkong
- Claypot tofu
- Har cheong gai (prawn paste chicken)
Zi char restaurants are known for their laid-back atmosphere and communal dining style. Dishes are usually served family-style, with everyone sharing from the same plates. This makes zi char a great option for group dining or family gatherings.
Overall, zi char is a beloved part of Singaporean cuisine that offers a unique blend of Chinese flavours and hawker fare. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the scene, there’s sure to be a zi char dish that will excite your taste buds.
Iconic Zi Char Dishes
If you are looking for a hearty and delicious meal in Singapore, then you cannot go wrong with zi char. This local cuisine is a combination of Chinese and Singaporean flavours, and it is sure to satisfy any craving. Here are some of the most iconic zi char dishes you must try.
Seafood Specialties
Singapore is famous for its seafood, and zi char is no exception. Seafood dishes are a must-try, and some of the most popular ones include chilli crab, prawn paste chicken, cereal prawns, white pepper crab, and Sri Lankan crabs. These dishes are bursting with flavour and are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Pork Delights
Pork is a staple in zi char, and there are many delicious pork dishes to choose from. Pork ribs are a popular choice, and you can try them in different flavours such as butter pork ribs, sweet and sour pork, and Guinness pork rib. If you are a fan of beef, then you must try the black pepper beef cubes.
Noodle Varieties
Noodles are a staple in many Asian cuisines, and zi char is no exception. Hor fun is a favourite among locals, and you can try it in different variations such as moonlight hor fun and chao tah bee hoon. Big prawn bee hoon and big prawn hor fun are also must-tries.
Vegetarian Options
Vegetarians need not miss out on the deliciousness of zi char. Zhenyi Veggie Place is a popular vegetarian zi char restaurant that offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes. You can try the cereal veggie prawn or go for a vegetarian zi char feast.
Signature Dishes
No zi char meal is complete without trying the signature dishes. Steamed fish head with fermented soybean is a must-try for seafood lovers. Steamed pork with salted fish is a classic pork dish that is bursting with flavour.
Black Angus ribeye steak is a must-try for meat lovers. Har cheong gai (prawn paste chicken) is a popular dish that is crispy and flavourful. Assam fish head is a sour and spicy dish that is perfect for those who love bold flavours. Coffee ribs and marmite chicken are also must-tries.
With so many delicious options, you are sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds. Head to one of the many zi char restaurants in Singapore and indulge in these iconic dishes.
Top Zi Char Places in Singapore
If you’re looking for delicious and affordable zi char in Singapore, you’re in luck! Singapore is home to a wide variety of zi char restaurants that offer a range of mouth-watering dishes. Here are some of the top zi char places in Singapore that you should definitely check out:
Keng Eng Kee Seafood
Keng Eng Kee Seafood is a Michelin Plate restaurant that has been serving up delicious zi char dishes since 1971. Their signature dishes include the Moonlight Hor Fun and the Big Prawns Hor Fun.
They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Butter Pork Ribs with Milk Powder. If you’re looking for a zi char restaurant that offers quality food at affordable prices, Keng Eng Kee Seafood is definitely worth a visit.
Two Chefs Eating Place
Two Chefs Eating Place is another popular zi char restaurant in Singapore that has been around for over 20 years. They are best known for their Butter Pork Ribs, which are coated in a sweet and savoury milk powder sauce.
They also offer a range of other dishes, including the JB San Lou Mee Hoon, which is a must-try. Two Chefs Eating Place has two outlets in Singapore, one at Commonwealth and the other at Sin Ming.
Kok Sen Restaurant
Kok Sen Restaurant is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant that is famous for its traditional Cantonese zi char dishes. Their signature dishes include the Black Angus Ribeye Steak and the Hong Kong-style Steamed Song Fish Head.
They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Kai Lan Wok-fried with Tender Beef. If you’re looking for authentic Cantonese zi char in Singapore, Kok Sen Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
New Ubin Seafood
New Ubin Seafood is a popular zi char restaurant that is known for its delicious and affordable dishes. They are best known for their signature dish, the USDA Black Angus Ribeye Steak, which is cooked to perfection.
They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Deep-fried Baby Squid and the Bitter Gourd Pork Ribs. New Ubin Seafood has three outlets in Singapore, one at Tampines, one at Zhongshan Park, and one at Hillview.
J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant
J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant that is famous for its authentic Thai-Chinese dishes. Their signature dish is the Mango Salad, which is a must-try. They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Yaowarat Seafood, which is a Thai-style seafood dish. J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant is located in Geylang and is definitely worth a visit.
Sin Hoi Sai Eating House
Sin Hoi Sai Eating House is a popular zi char restaurant that was visited by the late Anthony Bourdain. They are best known for their signature dish, the Signature Moonlight Hor Fun, which is a must-try. They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Big Prawns Hor Fun. Sin Hoi Sai Eating House is located at East Coast Road and is definitely worth a visit.
Chuan Kee Seafood
Chuan Kee Seafood is a popular zi char restaurant that is known for its delicious seafood dishes. Their signature dish is the Wok-fried Bee Hoon with Lala, which is a must-try. They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Crispy Salted Egg Yolk Sotong. Chuan Kee Seafood is located at Jurong West and is definitely worth a visit.
Hao Kee Seafood Deluxe
Hao Kee Seafood Deluxe is a popular zi char restaurant that is known for its delicious seafood dishes. Their signature dish is the Lobster Porridge, which is a must-try. They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Steamed Fish Head with Black Bean Sauce. Hao Kee Seafood Deluxe is located in Ang Mo Kio and is definitely worth a visit.
Yaowarat Seafood
Yaowarat Seafood is a popular zi char restaurant that is known for its authentic Thai-style seafood dishes. Their signature dish is the Tom Yum Soup, which is a must-try. They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Green Curry Chicken. Yaowarat Seafood is located in Chinatown and is definitely worth a visit.
Jiak Modern Tzechar
Jiak Modern Tzechar is a popular zi char restaurant that offers halal-certified dishes. Their signature dish is the Curry Fish Head, which is a must-try. They also offer a range of other dishes, including the Salted Egg Yolk Chicken. Jiak Modern Tzechar is located at Hillview and is definitely worth a visit.
Hua Yu Wee Seafood
Hua Yu Wee
Price and Affordability
When it comes to dining out, price is always a consideration. Fortunately, zi char in Singapore is known for being wallet-friendly, so you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious meal.
Many of the best zi char restaurants in Singapore offer wallet-friendly prices without sacrificing quality. For example, Two Chefs Eating Place is a popular spot that is known for its affordable yet delicious dishes. Their signature dish, Butter Pork Ribs, is a must-try and costs only around $12.
Another affordable option is Fatty Weng, which is known for its seafood dishes. Their Salted Egg Crab is a crowd favourite and costs around $60 for a large crab. While this may seem pricey, it’s actually quite affordable for a seafood dish of this quality.
If you’re looking for even more affordable options, there are plenty of zi char stalls and hawker centres around Singapore that offer wallet-friendly prices. For example, the hawker centre at Old Airport Road is home to a number of zi char stalls that offer delicious dishes at affordable prices.
Overall, whether you’re looking for a fancy zi char restaurant or a wallet-friendly option, there are plenty of great choices in Singapore. So go ahead and indulge in some delicious zi char without worrying about breaking the bank.
Dining Atmosphere
When it comes to enjoying a good meal, the dining atmosphere plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience. Zi Char restaurants in Singapore are known for their casual and laid-back ambiance, where you can enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones without worrying about the dress code or formalities.
Most of these restaurants have an open kitchen concept, where you can see the chefs in action, preparing your food fresh and hot. The aroma of the dishes being cooked will tantalize your taste buds and make you crave for more.
The seating arrangements in Zi Char restaurants are usually simple and functional, with wooden tables and plastic chairs. Some restaurants also have outdoor seating options, where you can enjoy your meal under the stars.
The lighting in these restaurants is usually dim, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The walls are adorned with pictures of the dishes, adding to the excitement of trying out new dishes.
Overall, the dining atmosphere in Zi Char restaurants in Singapore is perfect for a casual and relaxed meal with your family and friends. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the delicious food in a warm and welcoming environment.
Delivery and Online Ordering
If you’re craving for some delicious zi char but don’t feel like leaving the house, don’t worry! Many zi char restaurants in Singapore offer delivery and online ordering services, making it easy for you to enjoy your favourite dishes from the comfort of your own home.
With the current situation, many restaurants have adapted their services to offer online ordering and delivery to ensure the safety of their customers. You can now order your favourite zi char dishes online through their websites or through third-party delivery platforms such as Deliveroo, Foodpanda, and GrabFood.
Not only is it convenient, but many restaurants also offer island-wide delivery services so you can enjoy your favourite zi char no matter where you are in Singapore. Some restaurants even offer free delivery with a minimum spend, so keep an eye out for promotions to get the best deals.
To make the ordering process even easier, some restaurants have created their own online ordering platforms. For example, Keng Eng Kee Seafood has an online ordering platform that offers a seamless ordering experience. Simply select your dishes, choose your delivery time, and pay online. It’s that simple!
Overall, delivery and online ordering have made it easier than ever to enjoy your favourite zi char dishes. With many restaurants offering these services, you can satisfy your cravings without ever leaving your house.
Final Thoughts
You’ve now explored some of the best zi char places in Singapore, according to Google reviews and food bloggers. Whether you’re craving for some seafood, meat, or vegetable dishes, you can find a zi char restaurant that suits your taste and budget.
Remember that the ranking of the zi char places may vary depending on the criteria used, such as taste, price, portion size, location, and service. Therefore, it’s recommended that you try different zi char places and see which ones you like the most.
Also, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations or customization of the dishes, such as less salt, more spice, or extra ingredients. Most zi char places are flexible and accommodating to their customers’ preferences.
Lastly, keep in mind that zi char is not just about the food, but also about the experience of sharing a communal meal with your family, friends, or colleagues. So, enjoy the lively atmosphere, the clinking of glasses, and the laughter of your companions while savouring the delicious zi char dishes.
Overall, Singapore’s zi char scene is vibrant, diverse, and affordable, making it a must-try for both locals and tourists. Happy zi char hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the most delicious Zi Char dishes in Singapore?
Singapore is home to many great Zi Char restaurants that serve delicious dishes. Some of the best Zi Char restaurants according to Google reviews include Keng Eng Kee Seafood, Kok Sen Restaurant, and J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant. You can also check out Jiak Modern Tzechar @ Hillview, New Ubin Seafood, and Sin Hoi Sai Eating House for some mouth-watering dishes.
What are the must-try dishes at the best Zi Char restaurants in Singapore?
There are many must-try dishes at the best Zi Char restaurants in Singapore. Some of the most popular dishes include Sambal Kang Kong, Cereal Prawns, Claypot Tofu, and Black Pepper Crab. You should also try the Hokkien Mee, Har Cheong Gai, and Chilli Crab at any Zi Char restaurant in Singapore.
Which Zi Char restaurant in Ang Mo Kio serves the best dishes?
If you are looking for a great Zi Char restaurant in Ang Mo Kio, you should check out the famous Two Chefs Eating Place. This restaurant is known for its delicious dishes such as Butter Pork Ribs, Cereal Prawns, and Sambal Kang Kong.
What are the signature dishes at the famous Two Chefs Zi Char restaurant?
The famous Two Chefs Zi Char restaurant is known for its signature dishes such as Butter Pork Ribs, Cereal Prawns, and Sambal Kang Kong. You should also try their Claypot Tofu, Hor Fun, and Chicken with Ginger and Onion.
Which Zi Char restaurant in Chinatown offers the most authentic Singaporean flavours?
If you are looking for a Zi Char restaurant in Chinatown that offers the most authentic Singaporean flavours, you should check out Sin Hoi Sai Eating House. This restaurant is known for its delicious dishes such as Chilli Crab, Black Pepper Crab, and Sambal Stingray.
What is the average cost of a meal at a Zi Char restaurant in Singapore?
The average cost of a meal at a Zi Char restaurant in Singapore varies depending on the restaurant and the dishes you order. Generally, you can expect to pay around $20 to $30 per person for a satisfying meal at a Zi Char restaurant in Singapore. However, some restaurants may charge more for their signature dishes.