Mention “Singapore food” and most people think of hawker centers in Chinatown, Maxwell, or the East Coast. While these are certainly iconic, the neighborhood of Novena offers its own impressive lineup of culinary gems, often hiding in plain sight. Tucked away within its shopping malls and quiet streets is a diverse array of eateries that cater to every palate and budget.
From traditional Singaporean dishes to international flavors, Novena is a food paradise waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a local resident, an office worker looking for a satisfying lunch, or a tourist staying in the area, you’ll find something to delight your taste buds. This guide will take you on a tour of the must-try food spots in Novena, showcasing the variety and quality that make this neighborhood a worthy destination for any food enthusiast.
We’ll cover everything from comforting local favorites to upscale dining experiences. Prepare to discover the vibrant food scene that makes Novena a unique and delicious part of Singapore.
The Best of Local Flavors
Novena is home to several spots that serve up authentic Singaporean cuisine. These eateries are perfect for anyone craving a taste of home or wanting to experience the nation’s rich culinary heritage.
Wee Nam Kee Hainanese Chicken Rice
A trip to Singapore isn’t complete without trying Hainanese chicken rice, and Wee Nam Kee is one of the most celebrated names in the business. Located at United Square Shopping Mall, this restaurant has been perfecting its recipe for decades. The chicken, whether you choose steamed or roasted, is incredibly tender and succulent. It’s served with fragrant, chicken-fat-infused rice that is flavorful enough to be eaten on its own.
What sets Wee Nam Kee apart is the trio of accompanying sauces: a thick, dark soy sauce, a tangy and spicy chili-ginger sauce, and a pungent ginger paste. The combination of these elements creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and complex. The menu also features other local zi char (stir-fry) dishes, like sweet and sour pork and salted egg prawns, making it a great spot for a family meal.
The Clam-pagne of Bak Kut Teh: Founder
Just a short distance from the main Novena hub, Founder Bak Kut Teh on Balestier Road is a legendary institution. Bak Kut Teh, which translates to “meat bone tea,” is a peppery pork rib soup that has been a breakfast staple for generations. Founder serves the Teochew-style version, known for its clear, peppery broth rather than the darker, more herbal Hokkien style.
The pork ribs are simmered for hours until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. The soup is robust and warming, with a satisfying kick of garlic and white pepper. It’s common to order side dishes like salted vegetables, braised peanuts, and you tiao (fried dough fritters) for dipping into the savory broth. The restaurant is popular among locals and has even attracted international celebrities, a testament to its quality and reputation.
Nasi Lemak from The Coconut Club
While its flagship is elsewhere, The Coconut Club’s presence near Novena brings one of Singapore’s most beloved dishes to the area. Their Nasi Lemak is a masterclass in balance and quality. The coconut rice is aromatic and fluffy, cooked with fresh coconut milk. The accompanying sambal (chili paste) is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory.
The classic set comes with a crispy fried chicken leg (Ayam Goreng Berempah), a fried egg, crunchy ikan bilis (anchovies), and peanuts. Each component is executed with precision, elevating a humble dish to a gourmet experience. It’s a slightly pricier option, but the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost for a truly satisfying meal.
International Cuisine for Every Palate
The Novena food scene extends far beyond local dishes. Its central location and mix of residents and office workers have given rise to a wide variety of international restaurants.
Italian Indulgence at Da Paolo Gastronomia
Located in Square 2, Da Paolo Gastronomia offers a slice of Italy in the heart of Novena. This gourmet deli and cafe is perfect for a casual lunch, a coffee break, or picking up high-quality Italian products. The star of the show is their fresh pasta, made daily and served with a range of classic sauces like carbonara, bolognese, and aglio olio.
Beyond pasta, you’ll find a selection of artisanal pizzas with thin, crispy crusts, as well as hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. Don’t leave without trying their Tiramisu, which is famously rich, creamy, and coffee-soaked. Da Paolo provides a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both quick bites and leisurely meals.
A Taste of Japan at Kuriya Japanese Market
For those craving Japanese food, Kuriya Japanese Market in Velocity @ Novena Square is a fantastic option. It functions as both a market selling imported Japanese goods and a small eatery with a sushi and sashimi counter. You can watch the chefs expertly slice fresh fish, which is flown in regularly from Japan.
The bara chirashi don is a standout, featuring a colorful assortment of diced sashimi over a bed of seasoned sushi rice. The quality is comparable to what you might find in a high-end Japanese restaurant but at a more accessible price point. They also offer a variety of sushi sets, bento boxes, and cooked items like udon and ramen, making it a versatile spot for a quick and authentic Japanese meal.
Vietnamese Comfort at Signs A Taste Of Vietnam Pho
Tucked away in Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, just a stone’s throw from the main Novena area, is a hidden gem that serves authentic Vietnamese food. Signs A Taste Of Vietnam Pho is known for its heartwarming bowls of pho. The broth is light yet deeply flavorful, simmered for hours with beef bones and a secret blend of herbs and spices.
The Pho Bo (beef noodle soup) is a must-try, with tender slices of beef, rice noodles, and fresh herbs like basil and cilantro. They also serve other Vietnamese classics like Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwiches) and fresh spring rolls (Goi Cuon). The restaurant’s simple, no-frills setting puts the focus squarely on the delicious and authentic food.
Cafes and Sweet Treats
If you’re in the mood for coffee, cake, or a light snack, Novena has plenty of cozy cafes and dessert spots to satisfy your cravings.
Craftsmen Specialty Coffee
A popular name in Singapore’s cafe scene, Craftsmen Specialty Coffee has an outlet at Velocity. As the name suggests, they take their coffee very seriously. Using beans sourced from various regions, their skilled baristas pull excellent espressos and craft beautiful lattes.
The food menu is equally impressive, offering a wide range of brunch-style dishes. Think fluffy waffles topped with berries and ice cream, hearty brioche French toast, and savory options like sandwiches and pasta. The cafe’s modern, industrial-chic decor and relaxed vibe make it an ideal place to catch up with friends, get some work done, or simply enjoy a great cup of coffee.
Sweet Delights at Peck Luan Restaurant
Do not be fooled by the name; Peck Luan in Square 2 is a traditional Chinese dessert house. It’s a nostalgic spot that specializes in classic Teochew sweets. It’s the perfect place to cool down after a meal or on a hot Singapore afternoon.
Their menu features a variety of hot and cold desserts. Popular choices include the Orh Nee (yam paste with ginkgo nuts and pumpkin), a rich and smooth Teochew delicacy. Other must-tries are the Tau Suan (split mung bean soup) and the Mango Pomelo Sago. These traditional desserts offer a taste of nostalgia and are a refreshing change from the more modern dessert options widely available.
A Final Word on Feasting in Novena
Novena may not have the sprawling hawker centers of other neighborhoods, but its concentrated and diverse food scene makes it a culinary destination in its own right. From iconic local dishes prepared with generational expertise to authentic international cuisine and trendy cafes, there is truly something for everyone.
The next time you’re in Singapore and wondering where to eat, venture beyond the usual tourist trails. Take a trip to Novena and allow your taste buds to explore the rich tapestry of flavors this unassuming neighborhood has to offer. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a new appreciation for the depth and variety of Singapore’s food culture.
