As we conclude another cycle around the sun, we often use this time to reflect on the year. We foodies here at SETHLUI.com think that it’s time to reflect on our gastronomical experiences throughout the year, so I’ve collated a list of 2025’s best hawker food spots!
Please note that this list is subjective and based on our opinions. I encourage everyone to form their own lists and share them! With that, here’s a round-up of 2025’s best hawker food spots found in Singapore.
Best Hakka lei cha
2025 best hawker – thunderbolt tea
Thunderbolt Tea by Boon Lay Traditional Hakka Lui Cha
Most Gen Zs today are likely unfamiliar with Hakka lei cha, which translates to Hakka thunder tea rice. If that’s got you curious, then head down to Paya Lebar and try Thunderbolt Tea by Boon Lay Traditional Hakka Lui Cha. Their White Rice Thunder Tea (S$4.50) is humongous, given the price point. It’s packed to the brim with vegetables that provide a healthy bite filled with beneficial vitamins and antioxidants.
If you want an even healthier meal, try their Brown Rice Thunder Tea (S$5), where they substitute the white rice with brown rice.
129 Geylang East Avenue 2, #01-100, Singapore 380129
Tel: +65 9339 8979
Daily: 9am – 2pm
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Best laksa
George’s Laksa
George’s Laksa (or Katong Laksa) along Changi Road is the definition of ‘hidden gem’. Tucked within a sleepy eatery, the stall is operated by the titular man, George, and serves their signature Katong Laksa (S$6/7/8). Its gravy is so creamy and coconutty, which is balanced by the full-bodied umami from the shrimp bits.
You can distinguish Katong-style laksa by how the noodles are served in short strands, which allows you to slurp it all up with just a spoon. Frankly, I wouldn’t blame you if you gulped the whole bowl down with just a spoon.
307 Changi Road, Singapore 419785
Tel: +65 9023 7360
Daily: 8am – 2.30pm
Closed on alternate Tue
Best Penang cuisine
2025 best hawker – mama’s kent secret recipe
Mama’s Kent Secret Recipe
When one invokes the word ‘mama’, they often refer to the warm comfort of home and hearty recipes made to soothe the soul. That’s exactly what you get at Mama’s Kent Secret Recipe in Tanjong Pagar Plaza. The stall is run by Kent Cheong, who picked up his recipes from his beloved mother. Have a go at their Penang Laksa (S$7.50 for Small, S$9 for Large), which brings the fabled assam laksa of Penang’s shores to Singapore.
If you prefer a garlicky sambal treat, try their Mama’s Chilli Prawn (S$10) that comes with white rice, vegetables, ikan bilis, and 6 curried prawns. Before you ask, yes, the ikan bilis is made in-house.
