When you think of Novena, you might picture medical centers, office towers, or high-rise condominiums. It is often seen as a transit hub or a place for business, rather than a culinary destination. However, locals know that this central Singaporean neighborhood is hiding a vibrant and diverse food scene. From heritage hawker stalls that have been serving the same recipe for decades to chic cafes pushing the boundaries of brunch, Novena offers a surprising density of delicious options.
Exploring this area requires an empty stomach and an adventurous spirit. The food landscape here is a mix of the old and the new. You can find yourself eating traditional peppery pork rib soup in a non-air-conditioned shophouse one moment, and enjoying artisanal Japanese pancakes in a sleek mall the next. It is this variety that makes Novena a microcosm of Singapore’s broader food culture.
If you are visiting the area, the sheer number of malls—Velocity, Square 2, and United Square—plus the surrounding shophouses can be overwhelming. Where do you start? What is worth the calories? To help you navigate the menus and queues, we have curated a list of essential eats. These aren’t just meals; they are experiences that define the flavor of the neighborhood.
Here are the 12 food items you absolutely need to try when visiting Novena.
1. The Legendary Poached Chicken at Wee Nam Kee
If you only eat one thing in Novena, let it be the chicken rice from Wee Nam Kee. Located in United Square, this establishment is an institution in Singapore. While chicken rice is ubiquitous across the island, Wee Nam Kee stands out for its specific preparation style.
The poached chicken here is tender, gelatinous, and bathed in a light soy-based sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the meat rather than overpowering it. But the real secret is in the rice itself. It is fluffy, oily enough to be flavorful, and fragrant with ginger and pandan.
Why it’s a must-try: The dipping sauces. Their chili sauce packs a tangy punch, while the dark soy sauce is thick and rich. When you mix the ginger paste, chili, and dark soy over a slice of poached chicken and a spoonful of aromatic rice, you get the perfect bite that locals have cherished for decades.
2. Peppery Pork Ribs at Founder Bak Kut Teh
Just a stone’s throw away on Balestier Road (which borders the Novena area), you will find one of the most famous versions of Bak Kut Teh, or “meat bone tea.” Founder Bak Kut Teh has been serving this Teochew-style soup for over 40 years, attracting celebrities and foodies alike.
Unlike the herbal, dark versions found in Malaysia, this soup is clear and intensely peppery. It relies heavily on garlic and white pepper to create a broth that warms you from the inside out. The pork ribs are simmered until they fall off the bone with the slightest nudge of your chopsticks.
Dining tip: Do not skip the You Tiao (dough fritters). Dip these crispy strips of fried dough into the peppery soup to soak up the broth. It is the traditional way to enjoy the meal.
3. Traditional Mango Sago at Ah Chew Desserts
After a savory meal, head over to Goldhill Plaza for a bowl of sweetness at Ah Chew Desserts. This spot is perpetually busy, and for good reason. They specialize in traditional Chinese desserts that strike a balance between sweet, creamy, and refreshing.
Their standout item is the Mango Sago with Pomelo. It is a vibrant, yellow bowl of chilled mango purée, loaded with generous chunks of fresh sweet mango, sago pearls, and bursts of tart pomelo pulp. The contrast between the sweet mango and the citrusy pomelo cuts through the richness, making it a perfect palate cleanser.
4. Loaded Bagels at Two Men Bagel House
For a more modern, Western-influenced Novena Food, Two Men Bagel House in Novena Regency is the place to be. This isn’t your average coffee shop bagel with a smear of cream cheese. These are massive, hearty sandwiches that require two hands to hold.
The bagels are hand-rolled and baked fresh daily, resulting in a dense, chewy texture with a crisp exterior. The fillings are creative and generous. You might find combinations involving smoked brisket, pickled onions, scrambled eggs, and house-made aiolis.
What to order: Look for their “Personal Best.” It usually involves a heavy hit of protein like spam or bacon, balanced with hash browns and cheese. It is heavy, messy, and incredibly satisfying.
5. Teochew Fishball Noodles at Li Xin
Food courts in Singapore are treasure troves, and the one at United Square is no exception. Here, you will find Li Xin Teochew Fishball Noodles. The star of the show here is the fishball itself.
Made from pure yellowtail fish, these fishballs are bouncy and soft, with a texture that factory-made versions simply cannot replicate. They are served in a clear, savory broth alongside noodles tossed in a spicy, vinegary sauce. The simplicity of the dish highlights the freshness of the ingredients.
6. Flaky Tau Sar Piah at Loong Fatt
While technically on the fringe of Novena along Balestier Road, Loong Fatt is essential to the area’s culinary identity. This bakery has been churning out Tau Sar Piah (bean paste pastry) since 1948.
These small, round pastries come with either sweet or salty mung bean filling. The crust is the highlight—it is incredibly flaky, buttery, and crisp, contrasting perfectly with the smooth, dense paste inside. Walking past the shop, the smell of baking pastry is often enough to draw you in. They are best eaten warm, fresh out of the oven.
7. Artisanal Grain Pancakes at Kyushu Pancake
Located in Novena Regency, Kyushu Pancake offers a unique twist on the breakfast staple. These aren’t the fluffy, airy soufflé pancakes that have taken Instagram by storm, nor are they the flat American diner variety.
These pancakes are made from a proprietary flour mix featuring seven different grains from Kyushu, Japan, including wheat, sprouted brown rice, and millet. This gives the pancakes a slightly chewy, mochi-like texture and a rustic, nutty flavor. They are served with simple toppings like honey and butter, or more elaborate fruit compotes. It is a healthier, textural experience that feels wholesome and comforting.
8. Authentic Katong Laksa at 328 Katong Laksa
You don’t need to travel to the East Coast to get a taste of famous Singaporean Laksa. An outlet of the renowned 328 Katong Laksa is located within United Square. This dish is a spicy noodle soup based on a rich curry coconut milk.
The defining characteristic of Katong Laksa is that the thick vermicelli noodles are cut into short pieces. This means you eat the entire dish with just a spoon—no chopsticks required. The broth is creamy, spicy, and packed with the flavor of dried shrimp (“hae bee”). It comes topped with cockles, prawns, and fish cake. A dollop of sambal chili on the side allows you to adjust the heat to your liking.
9. Italian Pizza Taglio at Da Paolo Gastronomia
For a quick but high-quality bite, Da Paolo Gastronomia in Velocity offers a slice of Italy. While they offer pasta and cakes, their Pizza Taglio (pizza by the slice) is the perfect on-the-go lunch.
The dough is fermented for up to 72 hours, resulting in a crust that is airy and crisp. The toppings range from classic Margherita to more gourmet options like truffle and porcini mushroom or salami and spicy honey. It is authentic Italian fast food that doesn’t compromise on ingredients.
10. Handmade Ban Mian at Top 1 Home Made Noodle
If you are looking for comfort food, look no further than the Top 1 Home Made Noodle stall. Ban Mian consists of handmade noodles served in soup.
At this stall, the noodles are made to order, ensuring a fresh, firm bite. The soup is the result of hours of boiling anchovies and soybeans, creating a broth that is naturally sweet and umami-rich without needing excessive MSG. It is usually served with minced pork, an egg, and crispy fried anchovies on top for texture. On a rainy day in Novena, this bowl is unbeatable.
11. Curry Fish Head at Ocean Curry Fish Head
This is a communal dish best shared with friends or family. Ocean Curry Fish Head serves a Chinese-style curry that borrows heavily from Peranakan and Indian influences.
The head of a red snapper is stewed in a vibrant, orange-red gravy until the meat is tender and absorbs the spices. The curry is tangy, thanks to the addition of tamarind (assam), and includes vegetables like okra, eggplant, and tomatoes. The gravy is thick and robust, perfect for drenching over white rice. It’s spicy, sour, and savory all at once.
12. Roasted Duck at Boon Tong Kee
Wait, didn’t we mention Boon Tong Kee for chicken? Yes, but their roast meats deserve their own spot on this list. While the poached chicken gets the glory, their roasted duck is a dark horse favorite among regulars.
The skin is roasted to a glossy, crispy finish, while the meat beneath remains juicy and flavorful. It is served with a plum sauce that cuts through the fattiness of the duck. Ordering a platter of roast duck alongside your chicken rice offers a delightful contrast of textures—the soft, comforting poached chicken against the rich, roasted duck.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dining in Novena
Is Novena an expensive place to eat?
Novena offers a wide spectrum of prices. While you can find upscale dining in the hotels and some mall restaurants, there are plenty of affordable options. Places like the food courts in United Square and the hawker stalls nearby offer meals for under $7 SGD.
What is the best time to visit these eateries?
Novena is a business and medical hub, so weekdays between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM are peak lunch hours with long lines. Weekends can be busy with families, especially at kid-friendly malls like United Square. For the most relaxed experience, try visiting for an early lunch around 11:30 AM or a late lunch after 2:00 PM.
Are these locations walkable?
Yes, most of the locations mentioned above are clustered around the Novena MRT station. Velocity, Square 2, and United Square are all connected via underpasses or short walks. The spots on Balestier Road (like Founder Bak Kut Teh and Loong Fatt) are a bit further but are easily accessible by a short bus ride or a 15-minute walk.
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits
Novena is more than just a stop on the MRT line; it is a neighborhood where heritage brands coexist with modern culinary concepts. Whether you are craving the comfort of a warm bowl of soup or the indulgence of a loaded bagel, this area delivers.
The next time you find yourself in the central region of Singapore, don’t just pass through. Stop, explore the malls and the shophouses, and taste the history and innovation on offer. Pick a few items from this list and start your own food trail. Your taste buds will thank you.
