The Red Star Restaurant is one of Singapore’s most beloved dining institutions, famous for its nostalgic charm and authentic Cantonese flavors. Established in the 1970s, this restaurant has become a cultural landmark for both locals and tourists. Its old-school setting, complete with traditional décor and dim sum trolleys, takes you back in time to Singapore’s golden culinary era. Visitors often praise it for preserving the traditional art of dim sum service, which is rarely seen today.
History and Legacy of Red Star Restaurant
The story of Red Star Restaurant began with four legendary Cantonese chefs known as the “Four Heavenly Kings.” These chefs were Hooi Kok Wai, Sin Leong, Tham Yui Kai, and Lau Yoke Pui, who transformed Singapore’s food scene. Together, they founded Red Star to bring authentic Cantonese cuisine to the city. Over time, the restaurant became known for its hospitality, community gatherings, and flavorful dishes passed down through generations. Its continued popularity reflects how tradition can thrive in a modern city.
Detailed Menu
| Category | Dish Name | Description | Approx. Price (SGD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dim Sum Classics | Har Gao (Shrimp Dumplings) | Juicy shrimp wrapped in thin, translucent skin. | 5.80 |
| Siew Mai (Pork Dumplings) | Steamed minced pork and shrimp topped with roe. | 5.50 | |
| Char Siew Bao (BBQ Pork Bun) | Fluffy bun filled with sweet barbecue pork. | 4.80 | |
| Chee Cheong Fun (Rice Roll) | Silky rice rolls with shrimp or char siew and soy sauce. | 6.20 | |
| Loh Mai Gai (Glutinous Rice) | Sticky rice with chicken, mushroom, and Chinese sausage. | 5.00 | |
| Egg Tart | Buttery tart shell with creamy egg custard filling. | 4.20 | |
| Chef’s Specialties | Peking Duck | Crispy duck skin served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. | 38.00 |
| Sweet & Sour Pork | Crispy pork tossed in a tangy, fruity sauce. | 22.00 | |
| Steamed Garoupa with Soy Sauce | Fresh fish steamed to perfection with ginger and scallion. | 36.00 | |
| Claypot Beancurd with Vegetables | Braised tofu with assorted vegetables and mushrooms. | 20.00 | |
| Noodles & Rice | Yang Zhou Fried Rice | Classic fried rice with shrimp, char siew, and egg. | 16.00 |
| Ee-Fu Noodles with Mushrooms | Braised noodles with earthy mushrooms and light sauce. | 18.00 | |
| Seafood Fried Noodles | Crispy noodles topped with seafood and gravy. | 20.00 | |
| Soups & Appetizers | Shark Fin Soup | Traditional celebratory soup with crab meat and egg. | 38.00 |
| Hot & Sour Soup | Spicy and tangy soup with tofu, bamboo shoots, and pork. | 10.00 | |
| Double-Boiled Chicken Soup | Rich, slow-cooked chicken broth with herbs. | 12.00 | |
| Desserts & Beverages | Mango Pudding | Refreshing mango dessert topped with milk. | 6.00 |
| Red Bean Soup | Sweet red bean soup served warm for dessert. | 5.50 | |
| Chinese Tea (per pot) | Choice of Pu’er, Jasmine, or Chrysanthemum tea. | 3.00 |
Popular Dishes
Every meal at Red Star Restaurant promises a variety of mouthwatering dim sum options. Their Har Gao (shrimp dumplings) and Siew Mai (pork dumplings) remain crowd favorites. The Char Siew Bao (barbecue pork bun) is another highlight that bursts with sweet and savory flavors. For dessert, their egg tarts and mango pudding complete the dining experience beautifully. Each dish is made using time-honored techniques and fresh ingredients to maintain authenticity.
Ambience and Interior Design
The interior of Red Star captures the charm of old Singapore. Its spacious banquet hall features red carpets, round tables, and chandeliers that reflect the 1970s dining style. While some modern restaurants chase minimalist aesthetics, Red Star proudly embraces its vintage look. The nostalgic atmosphere allows guests to relive the past, especially older generations who grew up during this era. The restaurant is a place where memories and meals blend perfectly.
Why Locals and Tourists Love It
Many people visit Red Star not just for the food but for the experience. Locals come here for family gatherings, weddings, or weekend brunches. Tourists love capturing photos of the dim sum carts and sharing the old-school vibe online. Despite newer dining trends, Red Star continues to stand out by staying true to its roots. Its affordable pricing, generous portions, and welcoming staff also make it an excellent choice for all generations.
Unique Dim Sum
One of the main attractions at Red Star Restaurant is its traditional dim sum trolley service. Instead of ordering from a menu, guests choose from pushcarts filled with steaming bamboo baskets. This method allows diners to see and smell each dish before picking their favorites. The sound of rolling trolleys, chatter of families, and aroma of freshly steamed buns create a lively dining atmosphere. It’s an experience that combines nostalgia with culinary delight, making every visit memorable.
Service and Dining Atmosphere
The service at Red Star eflects traditional Asian hospitality. The staff, some of whom have been there for decades, greet customers warmly and serve with efficiency. While the place can get busy, especially on weekends, the staff ensure that every table is served promptly. Guests often mention that the casual, family-friendly setting makes it feel like dining at a grand family reunion. The noise, laughter, and clinking of teacups add life to the restaurant’s classic character.
Prices and Value for Money
Dining at Red Star offers great value for both individuals and families. A typical dim sum meal costs between SGD 25 and SGD 40 per person, depending on the number of dishes. The generous servings make it ideal for group dining. Despite inflation and modern competition, Red Star has maintained reasonable prices, making it accessible to everyone. Its combination of quality, tradition, and affordability makes it a top pick among Singapore’s food lovers.
| Meal Type | Average Price Range (SGD) | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Dim Sum (Lunch) | 25 – 40 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Dinner Set Menu | 30 – 50 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Weekend Brunch | 28 – 45 | 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM |
Legacy and Future of Red Star Restaurant
The Red Star continues to symbolize Singapore’s culinary heritage. Even after decades, it remains a proud representative of traditional Cantonese cooking. As younger generations explore new cuisines, Red Star stands as a reminder of the importance of preserving food culture. Its timeless recipes, nostalgic setting, and dedication to quality make it a national treasure. The founders’ vision lives on through every dish served and every guest welcomed with warmth.
Locations and Operating Hours
Located at Block 54 Chin Swee Road, #07-23, in Singapore, Red Star is just a short walk from Chinatown MRT station. Its central location makes it convenient for families, office workers, and tourists alike. The restaurant occupies the seventh floor of a commercial building, offering panoramic views of the surrounding city. Parking and nearby bus routes add to its accessibility, making it easy for anyone to enjoy this iconic spot without hassle.
| Branch Name | Address | Contact Number | Operating Hours | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Branch – Chinatown | 54 Chin Swee Road, #07-23, Singapore 160054 | +65 6532 5266 | 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM / 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Flagship restaurant with pushcart dim sum |
| Marina Square Pop-Up | 6 Raffles Blvd, Marina Square #02-123, Singapore 039594 | +65 6333 9800 | 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM | Modern-style outlet featuring signature dim sum |
| Jurong East Branch | 3 Gateway Drive, Westgate #04-23, Singapore 608532 | +65 6266 1145 | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Family-friendly branch with full menu |
| Tampines Hub Outlet | 1 Tampines Walk, Our Tampines Hub #02-07, Singapore 528523 | +65 6788 9977 | 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM | East-side branch ideal for casual dining |
| Woodlands Pop-Up | Causeway Point, 1 Woodlands Square #05-11, Singapore 738099 | +65 6893 7722 | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Compact outlet with limited dim sum selection |
| Orchard Road Kiosk | 333A Orchard Rd, Mandarin Gallery #B1-11, Singapore 238897 | +65 6260 7788 | 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Takeaway-focused kiosk serving steamed items |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Red Star Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it is a living piece of Singapore’s history. Its pushcart dim sum, classic décor, and welcoming environment create a truly unique dining experience. Generations of families have shared laughter, meals, and memories here, making it a cornerstone of the local food scene. Whether you’re a visitor looking to explore Singapore’s heritage or a resident seeking comfort food, Red Star is a destination worth savoring again and again.
