15 ulu eateries in Singapore totally worth driving to
Even with all the new lines and stations popping up, there are still places in Singapore that you’re better off driving to. Like the ulu eateries hidden all over Singapore.
Cars are a luxury, but they can make trying to find unique food or having picturesque dining experiences a whole lot easier.
So, if you are planning an unforgettable date night or want to make special memories, fuel up your car or book a ride and take your pick.
1. Goodyear Seafood Village
Without a car, Good Year Seafood Village will be slightly challenging to get to. It’s located at 15 Tampines Avenue, with only 2 buses available at the bus stop nearby and the MRT station can be up to 30 minutes away.
It has a more rustic backdrop, made up of industrial structures and fields. At least, you’re surrounded by a bit of peace as you chow down with friends or family on the Malaysian-style zi char they have to offer.
At a seasonal price, you can order an Assam Style Sea Bass. It’s served atop 2 mini-flames, so you’d never have to worry about it turning cold. The tangy Assam and fresh sea bass are just the start of what you can look forward to.
One of their newly developed dishes is the Marmite Chicken (S$15), using a caramelised marmite mix of soy and honey.
Another innovation is the Big Prawn Yin Yang (S$13), a crispy bee hoon and hor fun in an egg gravy and fresh prawns. It’s a good balance of silkiness and wok hei in every bite.
If you’re looking to indulge, order the Lobster Porridge (S$138), which uses an entire rock lobster. The porridge will be filled with lobster meat and flower crab, which explains the price tag.
15 Tampines Avenue, Singapore 529788
+65 9642 5800
Daily: 11am – 10pm
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2. Mini Thai
The Kallang area is by no means infamous as an ulu location. But the stretch of road which houses Jalan Benaan Kapal Food Centre is missable enough that it looks like it.
It shouldn’t be so overlooked, especially not when you’d find a good deal of food choices there. One of them is Mini Thai which serves authentic Thai dishes.
There, for S$5, you can get freshly stir-fried Pork Basil Rice (S$5) with an add-on of a sunny-side-up (S$0.50). The pork includes bits of pork lard, which will lead you to a crunchy and savoury side with your rice.
Other Thai favourites like the fragrant Thai Fried Rice (S$5) and Thai Green Curry with Pork ($6). The rich curry especially is a treat, as you can taste notes of fruitiness thanks to the mango ginger used.
If you crave more spice, get the Petai (S$6). It uses a chilli paste that takes up to 8 hours of preparation. Swimming in all that red are fresh prawns and stinky beans. It’s more pungent than the previous dishes, so know what you’re getting into before trying it.
56 Jln Benaan Kapal, #01-02, Singapore 399644
Mon to Sat: 9.30am – 2pm
Closed on Sun
3. Boh Geh Uncle Canteen
If you’re looking to be transported back in time to experience what a more rustic and kampung-style canteen would be like, find your way to Boh Geh Uncle Canteen.
You can cycle on the Round-Island Route in the rather ulu Seletar area or you can hop into your car to get there. Do note they have a strict photography policy for the canteen’s interior.
There are only 3 stalls to choose from, but it’s all value for money. Like the nasi padang stall. For S$5, you can get an order of rice, kang kong, a yolky sunny-side-up and mutton. Do note other side dishes will be available depending on specific days of the week.
At the cai fan stall, an order of cabbage, fish cake, curry pork and braised pork belly will net you a total of S$4.20. It’s still under S$5, so it gets another vote for wallet-friendliness.
The sambal provided is free-flow, so you can get refills if you like to drown your dishes in spice.
Overall, it’s an affordable and no-frills food experience at a unique spot to escape city life for a while.
398 Piccadilly, Singapore 798368
Mon to Fri: 6am – 1.30pm
Closed on Sat & Sun
4. Eightisfy
Eateries in industrial zone eateries may have some of you groaning. Unless you work there, finding the place may be a challenge of its own. That’s the case for Eightisfy.
It’s hidden away in the corner of Redhill 1 industrial estate’s Maddox Canteen. Once you’ve managed to locate it though, you can reward yourself with handcrafted pasta. It’s even good enough to be compared to restaurant-level Western fare.
You’d have to ask for the secret pasta menu in which the owner will offer 6 to 8 varieties of homemade pasta. As it’s not from the standard menu, it suits more adventurous foodies. One of them is the Nero De Seppia Spaghetti Infused with Local Flavour (S$17.80).
It’s a plate of squid ink spaghetti served with a bounty of grilled prawns and local delights like fishcake bits and tau pok. Taking a bite will further reveal the local flavour, as you will taste laksa with the squid ink sauce.
Aside from the secret menu, you can order something from his regular menu as well. If you’re not craving pasta, order a plate of Garlic Pork Chop (S$8.80). The large piece of pork is drenched in garlic sauce, with a side of baked beans, fries and coleslaw.
The pasta is the crowning jewel at Eightisfy, but at least you’d still have other options if you prefer otherwise.
3752 Bukit Merah Central, Maddox Canteen, Singapore 159848
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 8pm
Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 8.30pm
Closed on Sun
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5. Bistro by Gardenasia
Bistro by Gardenasia is the kind of place that offers charming rustic views. If you can find it, of course. It’s all the way in a rather ulu corner of Singapore, near Neo Tiew Road. You’re better off driving as taking public transport will still have you walking a good half hour by certain routes. The required public bus only runs on weekends, too.
What you get though, is a unique dining experience of a local and Western and Singaporean fusion mix. With ingredients sourced locally, you won’t have to worry about the freshness as it’s straight from the farm to serve.
Their Assam Fish Chowder (S$16) is a recommended main, using locally farmed mullet fish and it is served with roti prata. The same goes for the fish from the Gardenasia Fish Soup (S$18).
Another fusion is the Mee Goreng Pasta (S$18). If you never thought you’d see pasta using belachan chilli, this will be a unique experience.
Gardenasia offers regular Western fare as well, with the Grilled Ribeye with Red Wine Sauce (S$28) being many customer’s go-to order.
The ice cream is made from goat’s milk, so try out the Premium Ice Cream (S$5 for Single Scoop, S$8 for Double Scoop).
240 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718898
+65 6898 9111
Sun: 10am – 4:45pm
Wed & Thu: 10.30am – 4:45pm
Fri & Sat: 10.30am – 9:45pm
Closed on Mon & Tue
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6. Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe, an Italian restaurant in the quiet suburbs of Bukit Batok, is considered a hidden gem by its diners.
It’s a cosy place that has authentic Italian cuisine, with handmade pasta. You can order their namesake Cacio e Pepe (S$25), which means “Cheese and Pepper” in Italian. For the specifics of what kind, it’s Pecorino and black pepper.
There’s pizza fresh from the oven to share. A popular choice is the Pizza Capricciosa (S$25), topping the tomato sauce and cheese with mushrooms, Italian-cooked ham, artichokes and black olives.
They even have a selection of homemade desserts. The Lava Cake (S$13), served with a scoop of ice cream, seems to be a customer favourite. There are even variants, one with Macadamia Nuts (S$14) and a Rum Lava cake (S$15) You have others like Creme Brulee (S$12) and Panna Cotta (S$10) as well if you rather not have a rich chocolatey pick.
3 Chu Lin Rd, Singapore 669890
+65 6760 3534
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Mon
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7. One Place Western Bistro and Bar
One Place Western Bistro and Bar is at the rather ulu Jalan Kayu. It can be pitched as a place with live screenings of soccer matches and Western bar bites. It has the occasional drinking challenge as well.
Many reviewers enjoyed the time they spent at One Place when they came for a drink. The beer is often reasonably priced, with options like Corona (S$12), Guinness Draught (S$14), and Erdinger (S$14).
While more common as a bar to chill out, there’s a selection of Western bites you can order as well. From Calamari (S$24), Nacho Chips (S$19), Beef and Beer Chili Fries (S$15) to mains like their Signature Burger (S$27) or the more local-sounding Laska Squid Spaghetti (S$29).
273 Jln Kayu, Singapore 799501
Daily: 5pm – 12am
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8. The Coastal Settlement
In a very ulu part of Changi is The Coastal Settlement. It’s a bit of a quirky restaurant, decked out with antiques as decorations.
To summarise their history, the grounds were once a block at Changi Camp, utilised by the Royal Air Force (RAF). Now, it sits like a fusion of vintage memorabilia and a restaurant.
The Coastal Settlement offers a different menu for high tea, Weekend Breakfast (S$21 per person), weekend lunch and à la carte orders.
The menus themselves are designed to look like pages of a newspaper, adding to the charm.
Weekend lunch – which they also call their brunch menu – offers sharing plates of Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad (S$26), Sweet Potato Fries (S$16), and even the local favourite of Har Cheong Gai (S$16).
Mains range from Thin Crust Pizzas (S$26-S$30) to decadent renditions of local favourites like Wagyu Beef Hor Fun (S$34).
The breakfast part of the brunch menu can be found in both the Breakfast Steak and Eggs (S$38) and the Stettlement’s Big Breakfast (S$28).
200 Netheravon Rd, Singapore 508529
+65 6475 0200
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 11pm
Sat to Sun: 8.30am – 11pm
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9. Outram Park Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha
On the outskirts of Tanjong Pagar, at an HDB coffee shop is Outram Park Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha. This is the place for fans of bak kut teh, with options of what parts of the pig you want in your soup.
There’s the classic Spare Ribs Soup (S$9.70), which nets you 4 tender pieces of ribs. For an added treat, get a bowl of You Tiao (S$2.30) to dip into the peppery broth.
Instead of ribs, you can opt for others like Pig’s Stomach Soup (S$9.20), Pig’s Tail (S$8.50) or Sliced Pork Loin Soup (S$8.50). They will still be in the same peppery broth, so may as well pick what you enjoy.
You are even allowed refills with just a raise of your hand.
It’s not just soup on the menu though. You can order braised dishes too. You can have Braised Pig’s Trotters (S$8 for Regular, S$11.50 for Large) or Braised Pig’s Intestines (S$9.20 for Regular, S$11.50 for Large).
If it’s feeling too meaty for you, maybe opt for 2 Pieces of Braised Egg (S$2.30) or Braised Dried Beancurd (S$2.90) instead.
7 Keppel Road, PSA Tanjong Pagar Complex, #01-05/07 , Singapore 089053
+65 9224 8988
Tue to Sun: 7am – 10pm
Closed on Mon
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10. Mad Charcoal
Situated at Ang Mo Kio is Mad Charcoal, a Western stall that utilises a huge charcoal grill. If you’re a meat lover, this is something to put on your visit list.
It’s not exactly near AMK station itself, and even the owners have a post instructing customers on the best route to take to their stall. Once you’ve reached the coffee shop they’re in, you can sample the grilled delights at your leisure.
Thanks to their charcoal grill, the meat will be smokey. Yet it does not take away from how juicy all their cuts are.
You have a popular pick in the Pork Belly (S$8) and unique options like the Kurobuta Pork Steak with Ratatouille (S$19.50). They’re all in thick cuts, with a balance of lean and fat.
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, get the Lamb T-Bone with Sweet Potato Set Meal (S$22.50). Even with an option like lamb, you don’t need to fear gaminess from it.
The dishes here are on the pricier side of hawker fare. But it’s well worth spoiling yourself with some nicely charred meat from time to time.
3 Ang Mo Kio Street 62, #01-38, Singapore 569139
+65 8878 0280
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 9pm
Closed on Sun
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11. Offshore Bar & Grill
Unless you’re heading to Batam, Tanah Merah won’t normally be on your mind. Maybe you could change your mind about that sentiment for Offshore Bar & Grill.
It’s down at the ferry terminal, so you’re going to have an idyllic view as you chow down on the barbecue treats on offer here.
As fitting for an eatery located by the shore, there’s plenty of seafood in the Happy Feast option. It starts at S$49.90++ per person.
With fresh seasonal seafood laid out buffet-style for you to pick and choose, on top of a whole seabass, head down to your table and start cooking. You will find a charcoal grill in the middle of your tab;e, allowing you to indulge in smoky seafood delights.
There’s also a selection of cooked food for those who prefer it.
Topping up your order with the Super Happy Package ($39.90++) will net you a whole Boston lobster, a must-have if you’re a huge seafood lover. You can also opt for an addon of Oysters (S$2.20 ++ per oyster).
50 Tanah Merah Ferry Rd, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, #01-02, Singapore 498833
+65 9437 8922
Tue to Thu: 5pm – 10pm
Fri to Mon: 5pm – 10.30pm
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12. ENAQ the Prata Shop
Located in the middle of nowhere in Jurong East is a prata restaurant called ENAQ. Despite how ulu the area is, it’s rather packed during peak hours.
Making the trip out here will reward you with one of the crispiest and uniquely thick pratas around. None demonstrate this better than their buttery Plain Pratas (S$1.50 per piece), which is served with a portion of fish curry and sambal ikan bilis chilli.
Another classic available here is, of course, the Egg Prata (S$2.40 per piece). You could also get a dessert version like the Susu (S$2.20 per piece) or Honey Banana Prata (S$3 per piece).
It’s not only their prata that is thick but their curry as well. The aromatic gravy is the perfect match for the flaky flatbread.
You may as well get fan favourite drinks like the Teh Tarik (S$1.30 for Hot, S$1.80 for Cold), or Ice Milo (S$2.20).
303 Jurong East Street 32, Singapore 600303
Daily: 7am – 11pm
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13. Woody Family Cafe
Nestled in Sembawang on Andrews Avenue is a local family-run Peranakan fusion eatery. They’re called Woody Family Cafe. In a funny bit of branding, messaging them for a reservation will have you see a Woody from Toy Story profile picture.
I am mentioning reservations as it’s required if you want to eat here. But once that’s settled, you’re in for a treat.
They have their Signature Peranakan Style Buffalo Wings (S$19.50), with varying levels of spice from a non-spicy sweetie spice bbq flavour to what they call “Towering Inferno”. The sambal recipe used for the signature wings is one handed down through generations, with more than 15 spices used.
For some carbs, order Woody’s Specialty Nasi Ulam (S$16.50). It’s a traditional mixed herb rice, with more than 10 aromatic herbs used, and served with sambal belachan.
From their authentic Peranakan à la carte specialities menu, try their Buah Papaya Masak Titek with Tiger Prawns (S$18.90) or the Buah Keluak Chicken Bakwan Masak Geram Assam (S$19.90). Do note both these dishes are on the spicier side.
They also offer Western mains, like burgers, pizzas and pasta if you’d prefer.
12F Andrews Ave, Singapore 759930
+65 6758 1185
Wed to Mon: 11.30am – 4pm & 5pm – 11pm
Closed on Tue
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14. La Braceria Pizza and Grill
When thinking of ulu places in Singapore, I’m sure Bukit Timah will come to mind. True to that notion, La Braceria Pizza and Grill is only accessible by driving there.
If you’re undeterred, you’ll be rewarded with authentic Italian cuisine. As recommended by the chef, try a plate of Spaghetti n’duja (S$32, an additional S$8 for adding burrata). It’s a tomato-based pasta dish with spicy pork sausage. Reviews for their noodles are that it’s al dente and not too saucy or dry.
They recommend the spicy pork sausage again in their Pizza n’duja (S$32). If you’d like something classic, get the Pizza Margherita (S$19). Their handmade pizzas are cooked via wood-fired, so you can anticipate a more rustic pie.
For more adventurous foodies, there’s veal on the menu in their Vitello tonnato (S$32), which is slow-cooked with a light Italian tuna sauce.
For sweet tooths, do get the Braceria Cheese Cake (S$12), which is even labelled as a “must try” on their menu. Coffee lovers could opt to get their Tiramisù (S$12) instead.
5 Greendale Ave, Singapore 289501
+65 6465 5918
Daily: 11.30am to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 10.30pm
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15. UNA at The Alkaff Mansion
Hidden within the greenery of Telok Blangah Hill Park, UNA sits on the second floor of the picturesque Alkaff Mansion. It’s perfect for special date nights. Previously at One Rochester, they moved into Alkaff back in 2019.
They’re a Spanish Restaurant and Bar, offering a mix of contemporary and heritage dishes.
On Tuesdays to Fridays, they have a Set Lunch Menu (2 Courses for $42++, 3 Courses for $48++). The main bulk of praise, however, goes to the à la carte dinner menu. The Paella De Marisco (S$62 for Small, S$82 for Large) is a popular choice among reviewers, one even stating it was better than the one he had in Barcelona.
Still for seafood lovers, try their Pulpo A La Parrilla Con Papas Arrugadas Y Mojo (S$36), a tender grilled octopus dish with two kinds of potatoes and paprika.
Moving away from seafood, a highly recommended dish is the Pluma Iberica (S$46), a grilled Pluma ibérico pork served with potato foam and Padron peppers.
Diners can end their night with Crema Catalana (S$18), a Spanish Crème Brûlée with berries and white chocolate. For something more chocolatey, get their Churros el Clasico (S$16). They’re served with Valrhona Chocolate and pecan nuts.
10 Telok Blangah Green, Level 2, Singapore 109178
+65 8126 8844
Sun & Mon: 6pm – 10.30pm
Tue to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Closed on Sat
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