FoodSingapore

Dining and Local Food Options around Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)

1. What are the best restaurants near NAFA for a quick bite?


1. Artichoke (Middle Eastern cuisine)
2. Old Xinjiang Kebabs (Chinese skewers)
3. Shin-Yeh (Taiwanese cuisine)
4. Siam Square Mookata (Thai barbecue)
5. Da Paolo Pizza Bar (Italian pizza and pasta)
6. The Lokal (Australian brunch fare)
7. I am Cafe (Western fusion food)
8. Nam Kee Chicken Rice & Restaurant (Singaporean chicken rice)
9. Tolido’s Espresso Nook (Cafe with sandwiches and coffee)
10. Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari (Bakery and brunch items)

2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options near NAFA for students with dietary restrictions?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options near NAFA for students with dietary restrictions:

1. VeganBurg – Located at Funan Mall, this plant-based burger joint offers a variety of vegan burgers, sides, and desserts.

2. The Boneless Kitchen – This vegetarian Korean restaurant is located at Fortune Centre and serves up tasty meat-free versions of traditional dishes.

3. The Living Cafe – A health food cafe located at Bukit Timah Road that offers vegetarian and raw food options.

4. Whole Earth – Located at Peck Seah Street, this restaurant serves up delicious Peranakan-style vegetarian dishes.

5. Real Food – At this plant-based eatery in Clarke Quay Central, you can find a range of healthy and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes.

6. VeggieLand – A fully vegetarian Chinese restaurant located at Middle Road serving up a variety of mock meat dishes.

7. Well Dressed Salad Bar & Cafe – A salad bar located at Marina Square that offers customizable salads and wraps with vegan options available.

8. SaladStop! – With multiple outlets across Singapore, this salad bar chain offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options for health-conscious students.

9. Komala Vilas Vegetarian Restaurant – An Indian vegetarian restaurant with multiple locations around Singapore serving up traditional South Indian cuisine.

10. Loving Hut – Serving up Asian-inspired vegan cuisine, Loving Hut has several outlets around Singapore including one near NAFA on Queen Street.

3. Which local food options should visitors try in the vicinity of NAFA?


1. Hainanese Chicken Rice at Wee Nam Kee Chicken Rice
2. Laksa at 328 Katong Laksa
3. Curry Fish Head at The Banana Leaf Apolo
4. Chilli Crab at Jumbo Seafood Restaurant
5. Bak Kut Teh (Pork Rib Soup) at Ng Ah Sio Pork Ribs Soup Eating House
6. Char Kway Teow (Fried Flat Rice Noodles) at Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow
7. Peranakan dishes at Blue Ginger Restaurant
8. Roti Prata with Fish Curry at Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata
9. Satay (grilled meat on skewers) at Lau Pa Sat Festival Market
10. Nasi Lemak (coconut rice dish) at Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak Stall.

4. Is there a popular hawker centre or food court within walking distance of NAFA?


Yes, there is a hawker centre called Pomo Food Court located within walking distance of NAFA. It is only a 5-minute walk away from the campus and offers a variety of local dishes at affordable prices. Other popular hawker centres in the vicinity include Tekka Centre and Albert Centre Market & Food Centre, which are both accessible by public transport or within a 10-minute walk.

5. What are some budget-friendly dining options around NAFA that students can frequent?

– There are many budget-friendly dining options around NAFA that students can frequent. Some examples are:
1. The NAFA canteen, which offers a variety of affordable local dishes such as chicken rice, noodles, and rice bowls.
2. The nearby Bugis Street Market, where students can find cheap and delicious meals from various hawker stalls.
3. Student-friendly cafes such as Toast Box or Ya Kun Kaya Toast, where they can enjoy budget-friendly breakfast or snacks.
4. The Food Republic food court at Plaza Singapura, which has a wide selection of affordable food options from different cuisines.
5. The nearby Mustafa Centre, which has a food court on the top floor with affordable Indian and Malaysian dishes.
6. Geylang Serai Market and Food Centre, where students can find affordable Malay and Singaporean dishes.
7. Food stalls along Bencoolen Street, offering local favorites such as nasi lemak and chicken curry for reasonable prices.
8. The City Square Mall basement food court, which has various wallet-friendly food options like vegetarian food, Japanese bento sets, and noodle dishes.

These are just some examples of the many budget-friendly dining options around NAFA that students can explore to satisfy their cravings without breaking the bank.

6. Can you recommend any authentic local dishes that can be found near NAFA?


Some popular authentic local dishes found near NAFA include:
1. Laksa – a spicy noodle soup made with coconut milk and seafood.
2. Chicken Rice – steamed or roasted chicken served with fragrant rice.
3. Char Kway Teow – a stir-fried dish of flat rice noodles, eggs, shrimp, and sausage.
4. Bak Chor Mee – minced meat noodles in broth or tossed with sauce.
5. Hainanese Curry Rice – a mix of curry, braised pork, vegetables, and other toppings over rice.
6. Nasi Lemak – fragrant coconut rice served with a variety of side dishes such as fried chicken, egg, and sambal chili paste.
7. Rojak – a fruit and vegetable salad dressed in a sweet and tangy sauce.
8. Wanton Mee – egg noodles tossed in soy sauce and topped with dumplings filled with meat or seafood.
9. Chilli Crab – a classic Singaporean dish of crab cooked in spicy tomato-based gravy.
10. Roti Prata – flaky Indian-style flatbread served with curry for dipping.

Note: It is important to check with the restaurant if their dishes are halal-certified before ordering as some may not be suitable for Muslim diners.

7. Are there any halal-certified eateries or Muslim-friendly food options near NAFA?

Yes, there are several halal-certified eateries and Muslim-friendly food options near NAFA. Some popular options include Rasa Istimewa Restaurant, Warong Nasi Pariaman, and Ma Maison Restaurant. You can also find halal food stalls at nearby hawker centers such as Tekka Centre and Albert Centre Market & Food Centre. Additionally, NAFA’s cafeteria offers a variety of Muslim-friendly food options as well.

8. Is it easy to find international cuisine like Japanese or Korean food near NAFA?


Yes, it is relatively easy to find international cuisine near NAFA, including Japanese and Korean food. There are several Japanese and Korean restaurants located within a 10-15 minute walk from NAFA, such as Ramen Keisuke and Daessiksin Korean BBQ. Additionally, there are also numerous other Asian and Western dining options in the nearby Bugis and Dhoby Ghaut areas.

9. How far is it from NAFA to famous food destinations like Chinatown or Little India?


It is approximately a 15-20 minute drive from NAFA to Chinatown, and a 10-15 minute drive to Little India.

10. What are some popular cafes and coffee shops around NAFA for studying and hanging out?


1. The Coffee Academics (NAFA Campus 3)
2. Tiong Bahru Bakery (NAFA Campus 1)
3. Artisan Boulangerie Co. (NAFA Campus 2)
4. Joe & Dough (Funan Mall)
5. Starbucks Reserve (URA Centre)
6. Kith Café (Millenia Walk)
7. Coffee Nowhere (Chiap Guan Building)
8. Tolido’s Espresso Nook (Crawford Lane)
9. Maison Ikkoku (Kandahar Street)
10.Zouk Café Bar & Restaurant (River Valley Road)

11. Are there any night markets or street food stalls that operate near NAFA during the weekends?


Yes, there are several night markets and street food stalls near NAFA that operate during the weekends:

1. Bugis Street Market: Located just a short walk from NAFA, Bugis Street Market is a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists. It also has a variety of street food stalls selling local favourites like satay, BBQ stingray, and fried carrot cake.

2. Kampong Glam Food Street: Just across the road from Bugis Street Market, Kampong Glam Food Street offers a unique mix of Malay, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine. This bustling street is lined with hawker stalls selling dishes like nasi briyani, murtabak, and teh tarik.

3. Chinatown Night Market: Located about 15 minutes away from NAFA by public transport, the Chinatown Night Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and try out some delicious street food. Popular dishes here include char kway teow, sambal stingray, and oyster omelette.

4. Newton Food Centre: A bit further from NAFA but worth the trip is Newton Food Centre, one of the most popular hawker centres in Singapore. Here you can find an array of local dishes such as chicken rice, laksa, and BBQ seafood.

5. Clarke Quay Food Village: If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere while enjoying your street food fix, head to Clarke Quay Food Village on weekends. This open-air hawker centre offers a variety of Asian cuisines including Chinese, Thai, Japanese,and Korean.

Please note that due to current safe distancing measures in place in Singapore, some of these markets may have limited operating hours or temporary closures.. It’s best to check with the respective markets or stalls beforehand for their opening hours and safety measures before visiting.

12. Which nearby restaurants would be suitable for a group gathering or celebration at NAFA?


1. Spice Brasserie at PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road: This restaurant offers a wide range of fusion dishes and can accommodate large groups with their private dining area.

2. The Halia at Botanic Gardens: With a beautiful outdoor seating area and modern European cuisine, this restaurant is perfect for special occasions or group gatherings.

3. Saltwater at Village Hotel Changi: This seafood buffet restaurant has a spacious dining area that can cater to big groups, and also offers a scenic view of the sea.

4. Raffles Courtyard at Raffles Hotel: Known for its charming outdoor seating and authentic Italian cuisine, this restaurant is ideal for an intimate group celebration.

5. Summer Palace at Regent Singapore: For those looking for traditional Cantonese fare in an elegant setting, this award-winning restaurant has private dining rooms available for group reservations.

6. Jumbo Seafood at Riverside Point: Located along the Singapore River, this well-known seafood restaurant serves up delicious dishes in a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for group gatherings.

7. The Quay Restaurant at Fullerton Bay Hotel: This sophisticated waterfront restaurant offers modern Asian cuisine and stunning views of Marina Bay, making it a great spot for special occasions or celebrations.

8. Violet Oon Satay Bar & Grill at Clarke Quay: Set in a colonial bungalow by the river, this casual yet upscale restaurant serves up tasty local dishes that are perfect for sharing among groups.

9. The Clan Restaurant at Seletar Aerospace Park: If you’re looking for some privacy and exclusivity for your group gathering, this hidden gem offers private dining areas within their revamped colonial house setting.

10. Wildseed Cafe + Flower Bar at Alkaff Mansion: With its rustic-chic decor and delectable brunch options, this quaint cafe is suitable for smaller group gatherings or celebrations with close friends.

11. Open Farm Community on Minden Road: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a peaceful and spacious al fresco dining area, along with delicious and unique dishes that are perfect for health-conscious groups.

12. Arteastiq at Plaza Singapura: Featuring an eclectic mix of modern Asian dishes and fusion cuisine, this chic restaurant has private dining areas available for group events and celebrations.

13. Is there delivery service available from nearby restaurants to NAFA campus for convenience?


Yes, there are various food delivery services such as Foodpanda and Deliveroo available in the vicinity of NAFA campus. Students can order food from nearby restaurants for added convenience.

14. How accessible is it to find healthy meal options around Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)?


It is quite accessible to find healthy meal options around Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). There are a variety of food options in the surrounding area, including restaurants and cafes that offer healthy and nutritious choices. Some nearby options include:

1. Real Food: This vegetarian restaurant offers a range of healthy dishes made with organic and natural ingredients.

2. Cedele: Known for its wholesome and nourishing food, this cafe serves up salads, sandwiches, and rice bowls that are both tasty and good for you.

3. SaladStop!: Located at Bugis Junction, this salad bar offers made-to-order salads with a variety of fresh ingredients to choose from.

4. Daily Cut: This eatery specializes in customizable protein bowls filled with nutritious meats, vegetables, and grains.

5. Outram Park Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha: For a healthier take on local cuisine, head to this popular bak kut teh stall where they use leaner cuts of meat and less oil in their dishes.

In addition to these restaurants, there are also several supermarkets within walking distance of NAFA where students can buy fresh produce and other healthy food items to prepare meals at home. Overall, students should have no trouble finding healthy meal options around NAFA.

15. Are there any specialty dish recommendations from neighboring regions like Peranakan or Malay cuisine?

Some specialty dishes from neighboring regions like Peranakan or Malay cuisine include:

– Nasi Lemak: A fragrant coconut rice dish served with various accompaniments such as fried chicken, peanuts, anchovies, and sambal (spicy chili paste).
– Laksa: A spicy noodle soup dish made with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and ingredients like shrimp, fish cakes, tofu puffs, and herbs.
– Ayam Buah Keluak: A Peranakan dish made with chicken and black nuts (buah keluak) that have been soaked in water for several days before being cooked into a rich and slightly sweet curry.
– Rendang: A slow-cooked meat dish cooked in a rich and flavorful spice paste until it is tender and falls apart. It is often served during special occasions or celebrations.
– Murtabak: A stuffed pancake filled with minced meat (usually beef), onions, eggs, and spices. This Indian-influenced dish is commonly found at street stalls or hawker centers.
– Roti Canai: Another Indian-inspired dish that consists of thin layers of dough that are repeatedly folded to create flaky layers when cooked on a griddle. It is usually served with curry or dhal for dipping.

16. What are the peak hours for dining around NAFA and how early do restaurants start operating till during weekdays and weekends?


The peak dining hours around NAFA (National Academy of Fine Arts) are typically from 12pm to 2pm for lunch and from 6pm to 9pm for dinner on weekdays. On weekends, restaurants may open earlier for brunch around 10am and close around the same time as weekdays.

17. Are there any hidden gems with unique and delicious menus just a short walk away from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)?


1. Pince & Pints Restaurant and Bar – Known for their flavorful lobster dishes, this hidden gem is a 7-minute walk from NAFA.
2. Maison Ikkoku – A cozy cafe that offers specialty coffee and delicious brunch items such as their famous Truffle Eggs Benedict, just a 10-minute walk away from NAFA.
3. Vatos Urban Tacos – A fusion restaurant that serves Mexican-Korean tacos and cocktails, only a 5-minute walk from NAFA.
4. Kilo Kitchen – Located in an industrial-chic space, Kilo Kitchen serves up modern comfort food with Asian influences, just a short 10-minute walk away from NAFA.
5. The Projector – An independent cinema that also has a café and bar serving up unique snacks and drinks options, only a 15-minute walk from NAFA.
6. Old Hen Coffee Bar – A well-known spot for artisanal coffee and brunch, this hidden gem is just an 8-minute walk away from NAFA.
7. The Analog Factory – A music-themed café serving up hearty comfort food with a twist, only a 10-minute walk away from NAFA.
8. Wah Kee Big Prawn Noodles – Famous for its flavorful prawn noodles, this humble stall is tucked away in the corner of Beach Road Food Centre which is just a 5-minute walk from NAFA.
9. Artichoke Cafe & Bar – This Mediterranean-inspired cafe has a rotating menu of creative dishes that are made to be shared with friends or family, only an 8-minute walk from NAFA.
10. Hash Sushi – This quaint Japanese-style sushi bar serves up fresh and creative sushi rolls at affordable prices, just a short 12-minutes’ walk away from NAFA.

18.Is it common for students at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) to bring their own meals from home due to limited dining options in the area?


It is not uncommon for students at NAFA to bring their own meals from home, as there are limited dining options in the immediate vicinity of the campus. However, there are still several food outlets and canteens within walking distance that offer a variety of affordable options for students. Additionally, many students also choose to dine at nearby shopping malls or food centres during breaks or after school. Ultimately, whether a student brings their own meals or purchases them on campus depends on personal preference and diet preferences.

19.What safety precautions should one take while exploring local street food options near NAFA?


1. Check for cleanliness: Make sure the stall or food cart looks clean and well-maintained. Avoid eating from stalls that look dirty or unhygienic.

2. Observe the cooking process: Take note of how the food is being prepared and cooked. Street food vendors should follow proper hand-washing practices and use clean utensils. If you see any red flags, it’s best to avoid that stall.

3. Look for busy stalls: A busy street food stall is usually a good indication of its popularity and quality of the food. However, make sure the food is freshly cooked and not sitting out for too long.

4. Stick to well-cooked food: It’s best to stick to dishes that are cooked thoroughly, such as grilled meats, rather than raw or undercooked options.

5. Avoid tap water: If drinking water is needed with your meal, opt for bottled water instead of tap water to prevent any potential contamination.

6. Be cautious with seafood: Seafood from street vendors can be risky as it spoils quickly in hot weather. It’s best to avoid it unless you’re sure it’s fresh and has been stored properly.

7. Use utensils provided: Avoid eating with your hands unless necessary, as there may not be opportunities to wash your hands beforehand.

8.Retain all receipts and packaging: Some countries have strict safety standards for street food stalls and require them to display licenses or permits issued by health authorities. Keep all receipts for record-keeping purposes and packaging in case of any issues later on.

9.Be aware of allergens: If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, make sure to communicate them clearly with the vendor and check for ingredients before making an order.

10.Listen to locals’ recommendations: Ask around for recommendations from locals who are familiar with the area and trust their suggestions on where to find safe and delicious street food options.

11.Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t look or smell right, it’s best to trust your instincts and avoid eating from that stall.

12.Wash hands before and after: Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after eating to maintain good personal hygiene.

13.Carry hand sanitizer: In case you cannot find a place to wash your hands, carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to clean your hands before eating.

14.Thoroughly rinse fruits and vegetables: If buying cut fruits or vegetables from street vendors, make sure they are properly washed with clean water before eating them.

15.Be cautious with ice: Avoid using ice in drinks from street stalls unless you know for sure that the ice is made from filtered or bottled water.

16.Pay attention to food temperatures: Hot food should be served hot, while cold food should be served cold. Avoid lukewarm dishes as they may have been sitting out for a while, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

17.Choose cooked over raw: Cooked food is usually safer than raw items as cooking can kill harmful bacteria that cause illness.

18.Don’t overeat: Street food can be cheap and delicious, but it’s also high in calories and can cause stomach discomfort if consumed in excessive amounts. Practice moderation when indulging in street food.

19.Drink plenty of fluids: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to avoid any heat-related illnesses. Opt for bottled or boiled water instead of sodas or sugary drinks from street vendors.

20. Are there any rooftop restaurants or eateries that offer a scenic view near Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)?


1. AQUA Sky Dining – Located at the rooftop of PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, this rooftop restaurant offers a breathtaking view of Singapore’s skyline while serving up a modern Asian menu.

2. Empire Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Situated on the 45th floor of Pinnacle@Duxton, this rooftop bar boasts panoramic views of the city and serves up a mix of Western and local cuisine.

3. Loof – Located at Odeon Towers, this vibrant rooftop bar offers a stunning view of the city’s skyline and serves up local street food-inspired dishes.

4. Baywatch@Rooftop – This seafood rooftop restaurant is located near Raffles Place MRT station and offers stunning views of Marina Bay Sands while serving up fresh seafood dishes.

5. LeVel33 – Situated on the 33rd floor of MBFC Tower 1, this microbrewery restaurant offers an unobstructed view of Marina Bay and serves up European-style cuisine with craft beers.

6. Kinki Restaurant + Bar – Located at the top floor of Customs House, this Japanese fusion restaurant offers a panoramic view of Marina Bay waterfront while serving up innovative dishes.

7. The Lighthouse Restaurant & Rooftop Bar – Overlooking Singapore River, this Italian fine-dining restaurant boasts an outdoor rooftop bar with a scenic view.

8. Nox Dine in the Dark – This unique dining experience involves being served in complete darkness by visually impaired wait staff on their outdoor rooftop terrace with a beautiful view of Arab Street.

9. Smoke & Mirrors – Perched atop National Gallery Singapore, this swanky rooftop bar offers an unparalleled view of Civic District while serving cocktails and small plates by award-winning bartenders.

10. New Asia Bar – Situated on the 71st floor of Swissotel The Stamford, this iconic rooftop bar offers panoramic views from its alfresco deck while serving drinks, desserts, and light bites.