A Foodie’s Guide to Zi Char: Where to Find The Most Delicious in Singapore

Zi Char is a popular dining experience in Singapore that offers a unique blend of Chinese cuisine. Zi Char literally means “cook and fry” in Hokkien dialect, and it involves stir-frying a variety of dishes with a wok over high heat. The dish has become a beloved staple of Singaporean cuisine and is often found in hawker centres or small family-run restaurants.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at the best Zi Char Singapore, with a particular focus on Tampines Zi Char, and highlight some of the must-try dishes.

Best Zi Char Restaurants in Singapore

Singapore is home to a plethora of Tampines Zi Char restaurants, with each having its own unique twist on the cuisine. One of the best Tampines Zi Char restaurants in Singapore is Lao Li Da Pai Dang, which has a history of over years in the industry. The restaurant’s famous white pepper crab is a must-try, and their chili crab and salted egg yolk crab are also highly recommended.

Another top-rated restaurant is Keng Eng Kee Seafood, which has been serving up delicious Tampines Zi Char dishes since 1971. Their signature dishes include the claypot rice with waxed meat, salted egg sotong, and coffee pork ribs. The restaurant is often crowded, so be prepared to wait in line for a table.

If you’re looking for something more upscale, Lao Li Zi Char is a great option. The restaurant’s decor is modern and sleek, and the menu features a variety of dishes with a contemporary twist. Their braised duck with abalone and the crispy cereal prawns are highly recommended. While it is pricier than other Zi Char restaurants, the quality of the dishes is well worth it.

Tampines Zi Char Restaurants

Tampines is a neighbourhood in Singapore that has a high concentration of Zi Char restaurants, making it a great destination for those looking for a Zi Char feast. One of the best Zi Char Singapore restaurants in Tampines is Hong Heng Fried Sotong Prawn Mee. This hawker stall is famous for its Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee and is often crowded during peak hours. Be prepared to wait in line for this delicious dish.

Another popular restaurant in Tampines is Hai Chang Fish Head Steamboat. As the name suggests, the restaurant is known for its fish head steamboat, which is a hot pot dish that consists of fish head, vegetables, and noodles. The broth is flavourful and the fish is always fresh, making it a perfect comfort food for a rainy day.

Must-Try Dishes

Best Zi Char Singapore cuisine offers a wide variety of dishes, each with its own unique flavour and texture. Some must-try dishes include the black pepper crab, chili crab, and salted egg yolk crab. The crab is stir-fried with a blend of spices and sauces, resulting in a succulent and flavourful dish that pairs well with steamed buns.

 

Another popular dish is the sambal kangkong, which is a vegetable dish stir-fried with sambal sauce, onions, and shrimp paste. The sambal sauce gives the dish a spicy kick, while the shrimp paste adds a salty depth of flavour. It’s a great side dish that pairs well with rice or noodles.

Tips For Enjoying a Zi Char Experience

When dining at a Zi Char restaurant, there are a few tips to keep in mind to enhance your experience. Firstly, Zi Char is best enjoyed with a group of people, as the dishes are typically served family-style. This means that everyone shares the dishes, and you get to try a variety of dishes instead of just one.

Another tip is to order dishes in moderation, as Zi Char dishes are typically served in large portions. It’s better to start with a few dishes and order more if needed rather than over-ordering and ending up with a lot of leftovers.

Additionally, be prepared to wait for your food as best Zi Char Singapore dishes are cooked to order. This ensures that the dishes are fresh and hot when they arrive at your table. While waiting, you can enjoy some Chinese tea or chat with your dining companions.

Discover The Best Zi Char Singapore

Zi Char is a beloved cuisine in Singapore that offers a unique blend of Chinese flavours and cooking techniques. From classic dishes like chili crab to contemporary twists like braised duck with abalone, there’s something for everyone in the Zi Char world.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual hawker stall or an upscale restaurant, Singapore has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to visit Tampines for a Zi Char feast and try out the must-try dishes like black pepper crab and sambal kangkong. With these tips in mind, you’re all set for a delicious and enjoyable Zi Char experience.