5 Places in Singapore to Satisfy Your Spicy Food Cravings

5 Places in Singapore to Satisfy Your Spicy Food Cravings

We all get food cravings every now and then, whether it be a specific flavour, texture, or a dish itself. Spicy cravings are a common one, especially for those who like their food with some kick, like I do. Not only are spicy foods intense and flavourful, adding power and punch to dishes from soups to stir fries and beyond. 

I’m planning a trip to Singapore and know exactly where to get my spicy food fix! From the minute you land, you’ll find exquisite Changi airport restaurants to satisfy your spicy cravings. Jinjja Chicken, for instance, offers their signature fried chicken with spicy hot sauce that’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Meanwhile, those craving curry will find Monster Curry’s five different levels of spiciness, a challenge worth taking on. You can also try So Pho’s spicy pho noodle soup and enjoy its rich, hot broth. Sign me up!

On departing the airport and starting your trip, you’ll be bowled over with choice. Below I’ve listed some of Singapore’s mouth-watering options when it comes to spicy food I’ve discovered from friends’ recommendations and research online. Enjoy!

1. Maxwell Food Centre

If you’re looking for a location with variety then Maxwell Food Centre is the ideal spot for you. Maxwell Food Centre is one of Singapore’s most iconic foodie spots, where you can try around 100 food stalls selling both Singaporean and international dishes. Classics such as curry, spicy stir-fried noodles, tom yum soup, mala stir-fries, and spicy beef rendang are just some of the dishes you’ll find there. Their most famous dish from the bunch is Tian Tian Hainanese chicken rice, which comes with a fiery homemade chilli sauce and should not be missed. Overall, Maxwell Food Centre is where the spice resides! 

2. Jumbo Seafood Gallery

If you’re specifically craving spicy seafood, you should definitely dive into (get it?) the Jumbo Seafood Gallery. A household name in Singapore, Jumbo Seafood is best known for their signature chilli crabs and black pepper crabs. Their dishes are meticulously prepared by Singaporean chefs, allowing you to taste authentic Singaporean flavours. What’s more, there’s a Jumbo Seafood branch right at Changi Airport, so you can lap up their sumptuous spicy seafood offerings as soon as you arrive. Given that the restaurant has also been included in TripAdvisor’s ‘Top 50 most iconic places in Singapore to visit,’ you surely won’t be disappointed.

3. 328 Katong Laksa

Laksa is a spicy noodle broth commonly served in Southeast Asia, often with protein-based toppings such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Whether you’re a seasoned laksa-lover or trying it for the first time, 328 Katong Laksa is your go-to. This creamy, coconut-based dish is infused with an abundance of dried shrimp and chilli paste, giving it a bold flavour like no other. The noodles are cut short so you can easily scoop them up with a spoon and savour the full taste of the spicy broth with every bite. Make sure you give this comfort food a go when you visit Singapore.

4. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle

Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle has earned worldwide recognition for being a Michelin-starred hawker stall, attracting people from all over the world to come try their delectable bak chor mee. This dish features noodles tossed in a flavourful mix of black vinegar and chilli paste, delivering an irresistible combination of tang and spice. Minced pork and crispy fish are then added to the mix for extra texture and flavour. 

For those looking for a spicier kick, you can customise the dish’s spice level according to your preference. Do note that the stall often has long queues, so be sure to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

5. Chong Qing Grilled Fish

Sichuan cuisine is famous for being extra hot due to its abundance of chilli peppers. If you’re looking to try it out for yourself while in Singapore, then look no further than Chong Qing Grilled Fish. This restaurant is famous for its mouth-numbing mala grilled fish, which can certainly give you that kick you’re craving. The fish is marinated with Sichuan peppers, dried chilies, and a mix of traditional spices, then grilled to perfection and served in a bubbling spicy broth. The intense heat and aromatic flavours make this a mouthwatering meal!

Singapore’s diverse food scene ensures that spice lovers will have a ton of dining options to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of spicy seafood, fiery noodle dishes, or rich laksa, the destinations listed above promises you an unforgettable culinary adventure packed with heat and flavour. So, make sure you add them on your own list of must-visit food spots when you land in Singapore, and go explore the best spicy foods the Lion City has to offer.