When visiting Singapore, one place you should not miss is the Old Airport Road Food Centre.
This famous hawker center has become a local landmark, drawing both tourists and Singaporeans daily.
This establishment is renowned for its affordable, delicious, and authentic Singaporean cuisine.
It offers a unique food experience that reflects the rich culture and history of Singapore’s local cuisine.
What is Old Airport Road Food Centre
The Old Airport Road Food Centre opened in the early 1970s on the site of the former Kallang Airport.
Before becoming a food hub, this location was home to Singapore’s first civil airport, adding to its heritage.
Over the years, this has become one of the most loved food spots in the country.
Many of the food stalls here have been run by the same families for generations, keeping old recipes alive.
Food Centre is So Popular
Many people choose to eat at the Old Airport Road Food Centre because of its huge variety of food choices.
It has more than 150 food stalls under one roof, each offering its specialty dishes and secret recipes.
Unlike modern malls, this provides a traditional hawker experience with affordable prices.
You can enjoy a full meal here for just a few Singapore dollars, making it budget-friendly and satisfying.
How to Get to the Food Centre
Reaching the Food Centre is simple because it is located in a central part of Singapore.
You can take the MRT and stop at Dakota or Mountbatten Station, which is just a short 5-minute walk away.
For those traveling by bus, several bus routes stop directly in front of this.
Taxis and private rides like Grab are also convenient because there is parking available, although it gets crowded.
Best Time to Visit
The Old Airport Road Food Centre is usually open from early morning until late at night, but times vary by stall.
Most popular food stalls start serving from 11 AM and may close by mid-afternoon or when food is sold out.
Evenings are busy, especially between 6 PM and 8 PM, so try visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed meal.
If you want to try the most famous dishes at this, it’s best to go early to avoid long queues.
Food to Try
The Old Airport Road Food Centre is famous for many Singaporean classic dishes that you cannot miss.
Some of the best choices include Hokkien Mee, Lor Mee, Char Kway Teow, Curry Puffs, and Satay sticks.
One must-try stall is Nam Sing Hokkien Mee, which serves noodles fried with prawns and squid in a special broth.
Another favorite is Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee, where people line up for bowls of thick noodles with savory gravy.
Popular Dishes
| Dish | Stall Name | Description | Estimated Price (SGD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hokkien Mee | Nam Sing Hokkien Mee | Stir-fried noodles with seafood | 5 – 6 |
| Lor Mee | Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee | Thick noodles in gravy with fish | 4 – 5 |
| Char Kway Teow | Dong Ji Fried Kway Teow | Fried flat noodles with prawns and lard | 4 – 5 |
| Curry Puffs | Wang Wang Curry Puff | Flaky pastry filled with curry potatoes | 1.50 – 2 |
| Rojak | Toa Payoh Rojak | Fruit and vegetable salad with sauce | 3 – 4 |
Atmosphere
When you enter the Old Airport Road Food Centre, you will notice the lively and friendly atmosphere.
The open-air seating allows people to enjoy their meals in a casual, comfortable environment with natural ventilation.
Food stalls are set up in rows, and the smell of cooking fills the air, making you hungry the moment you arrive.
Even though it gets crowded during lunch and dinner, people are usually patient and happy to wait for their meals.
Tips for Visiting
Before you visit the Food Centre, there are a few things you should remember to make your trip easier.
First, bring cash because most stalls do not accept cards or mobile payments, though some may use PayNow.
Also, consider coming with friends or family so you can order different dishes and share them around the table.
Don’t forget to clean up after yourself, as keeping this clean is everyone’s responsibility.
Importance of Food Centre in Singapore
The Old Airport Road Food Centre is more than just a place to eat; it represents Singapore’s rich food culture.
It keeps traditional hawker foods alive and provides a space where families and friends can gather and share meals.
By supporting the stalls at this, you are helping small local businesses thrive.
This food center remains a special place for both old and new generations who love Singapore’s hawker heritage.
Conclusion
The Old Airport Road Food Centre is one of Singapore’s most famous food destinations and a must-visit for food lovers.
With a variety of affordable and delicious dishes, it offers an authentic hawker experience that reflects local traditions.
Whether you are a tourist or a local, a trip to this will leave you with happy memories.
So the next time you are hungry in Singapore, head over to this for a tasty adventure.
