Zi Char (often spelled as “tze char” or “zi cha”) is one of Singapore’s most beloved dining experiences. Translating to “cook and fry,” Zi Char restaurants serve hearty, family-style dishes inspired by Chinese home cooking, while incorporating uniquely local flavors. These are affordable, casual eateries where there’s always a wide variety of options to please every palate.
But when you step into a Zi Char restaurant with an overwhelming menu of 50+ options, it’s hard to know what’s best. To make your next outing easier, here are 12 must-try dishes that you should absolutely order at any top-rated Zi Char spot.
1. Sambal Kang Kong
A staple on every Zi Char table. Sambal Kang Kong (water spinach or morning glory) is stir-fried to perfection with sambal chili, dried shrimp, and garlic. It’s smoky, slightly spicy, and has an irresistible umami kick. This dish is perfect for balancing out richer, heavier selections and bringing a touch of greens to your meal.
2. Salted Egg Prawns
Salted egg yolk is a quintessential flavor in Singapore, and salted egg prawns are an unmissable dish at any best Zi Char restaurant. Large, juicy prawns are coated in a rich, creamy salted egg sauce with hints of curry leaves and chili for added fragrance. The combination of sweet prawns and savory sauce is what makes this dish unforgettable.
3. Claypot Frog Porridge
If you’re feeling adventurous, try claypot frog porridge, a famous Zi Char delicacy. Tender frog meat is cooked in a thick, sticky soy-based sauce with ginger, onions, and garlic, then served alongside piping-hot porridge. The savory sauce pairs beautifully with the plain porridge, and the frog meat has a texture similar to chicken thigh.
4. Moonlight Hor Fun
A dish with a poetic name and irresistible flavor. This unique version of Hor Fun (flat rice noodles) is wok-fried with dark sauce, seafood, and vegetables before a raw egg is cracked on top just before serving. The raw egg (symbolizing the “moonlight”) adds richness and cohesion when mixed into the steaming hot noodles. The key? That intense “wok hei” (wok fragrance) that elevates the flavor.
5. Har Cheong Gai (Prawn Paste Chicken)
Har Cheong Gai is one of Singapore’s crown jewels when it comes to fried chicken. These crispy, golden pieces of chicken are marinated in an umami-rich prawn paste before being deep-fried to perfection. The result is meat that’s juicy, tender, and packed with bold flavor, with a crispy crust that satisfies every bite.
6. Black Pepper Crabs
Singapore’s crab dishes are legendary, and black pepper crabs are a Zi Char classic. Crabs are wok-tossed in a rich black pepper sauce that combines bold spice, sweetness, and heat. This dish may get your hands messy, but it’s a small price to pay for every succulent bite.
7. Crayfish with Glass Noodles
Looking for some indulgence? Order crayfish with glass noodles. This dish serves up juicy crayfish, paired with springy, transparent noodles that soak up the flavorful garlic-soy sauce broth. The noodles glisten with a hint of seafood umami, and every bite of crayfish brings a generous, sweet seafood taste.
8. Cereal Prawns
A perennial favorite among Zi Char lovers, cereal prawns are as addictive as they sound. Crispy fried prawns are coated in a fragrant golden brown mixture of butter, cereal flakes, and curry leaves. The dish delivers a delightful crunch, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
9. Hotplate Tofu
Served sizzling on a hotplate, this tofu dish is a comforting favorite. Silky soft tofu is fried on the outside and paired with minced meat, mushrooms, vegetables, and an egg-based sauce that binds everything together. The heat of the plate keeps the dish piping hot, ensuring every bite is heartwarming.
10. Tom Yum Soup (Zi Char Style)
Inspired by its Thai roots, Zi Char-style tom yum soup often takes on a local twist. Expect a flavor-packed bowl filled with prawns, mushrooms, lemongrass, and chili, delivering a medley of sour, spicy, and savory flavors. It’s perfect as a side or to pair with plain white rice.
11. Garlic Butter Pork Ribs
Garlic butter pork ribs set themselves apart with tender, fall-off-the-bone meat coated in a garlicky, buttery glaze. The richness of the butter is lifted by the aroma of toasted garlic, resulting in a dish that’s both indulgent and well-balanced.
12. Sweet and Sour Pork
Sometimes, it’s the classic dishes that truly shine. Sweet and sour pork is a timeless Zi Char order, featuring crispy pork chunks tossed in a tangy, sticky sauce made from ketchup, vinegar, and sugar. It’s sweet, savory, and just a little tangy, making it a hit with all ages.
What Makes Zi Char Dining Special?
The magic of Zi Char lies in its diversity and the charm of dining with a group. These dishes are all built for sharing, encouraging conversations and family-style meals. With its wide range of flavors, from sweet to spicy to umami-rich, Zi Char is a true celebration of Singaporean culinary heritage.
When you head to a Zi Char restaurant, remember to bring a hearty appetite and an openness to explore. Whether it’s ordering familiar favorites or experimenting with new finds, you’re guaranteed a satisfying meal with dishes made for sharing and celebrating.
Plan Your Next Zi Char Feast
Got your list of dishes ready? The best way to enjoy Zi Char is to invite a group of friends or family, head to a highly recommended restaurant like HK Street Restaurant, and order a variety of dishes to share.
If you’re still unsure where to start, ask the restaurant staff for their signature dishes or chef’s recommendations. Sometimes, the best experiences come from trying something new.
Happy feasting!
