FoodMalaysia

Dining and Local Food Options around Tanah Merah

1. What type of local cuisine can be found in Tanah Merah?


The local cuisine in Tanah Merah typically consists of traditional Malay dishes, such as nasi lemak (coconut milk rice served with various side dishes), mee goreng (stir-fried noodles), and ayam rendang (spicy chicken stew). Other popular dishes include roti canai (flatbread served with curry), sambal stingray (grilled stingray topped with spicy sauce), and otak-otak (spicy fish cake). There are also many Chinese restaurants in the area serving dishes like Bak Kut Teh (pork rib soup) and stir-fried tofu. Additionally, there are some Indian and Western dining options available.

2. Is there a specific dish that is famous in Tanah Merah?

There are a few dishes that are famous in Tanah Merah and the surrounding areas:

1. Ayam Penyet – a popular dish of smashed fried chicken, usually served with sambal, rice, and vegetables.

2. Roti Canai – a type of flatbread served with various curries and dips.

3. Soto Ayam – a chicken soup dish that is flavored with turmeric and served with noodles, veggies, and other herbs and spices.

4. Nasi Lemak – a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, usually served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled eggs.

5. Mee Goreng – fried noodles stir-fried with vegetables, tofu, meat or seafood, and topped off with a spicy sauce.

6. Satay – delicious skewered meats (usually chicken or beef) grilled over charcoal fire and served with peanut sauce.

7. Nasi Briyani – a flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, often served with mutton or chicken curry on the side.

8. Curry Laksa – a spicy noodle soup made with coconut milk, curry paste, noodles, bean sprouts, tofu puffs , shrimp or chicken,

9. Rendang – braised beef or chicken in rich coconut milk and aromatic spices like ginger galangal , lemongrass , garlic or onions

10. Murtabak – crispy stuffed flatbread filled with savory ingredients such as minced meat, onion and egg.

3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in the area?

Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in the area. Some popular options include:
– Veggie Galaxy: a retro diner-style restaurant with a fully vegetarian menu, featuring items like veggie burgers, tempeh Reubens, and vegan milkshakes.
– Life Alive: an organic cafe offering a variety of plant-based bowls, smoothies, and juices.
– Clover Food Lab: a fast-casual restaurant with a focus on locally sourced vegetarian and vegan options, including sandwiches, rice bowls, and salads.
– True Bistro: an upscale restaurant serving elegant vegan dishes such as eggplant parmigiana and mushroom Wellington.
– Red Lentil: a cozy eatery with globally-inspired vegetarian and vegan dishes like Indian dosas and Thai red curry.

4. Can you recommend a good seafood restaurant in Tanah Merah?


One highly recommended seafood restaurant in Tanah Merah is Ocean Seafood Village. They offer a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including steamed fish, chili crab, and salted egg prawns. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great spot for a family dinner or special occasion. Their signature dish, the Honey Glazed Prawn with Oats, is a must-try and receives rave reviews from customers. Overall, Ocean Seafood Village promises a delicious and satisfying seafood dining experience in Tanah Merah.

5. Are there any must-try street food vendors or stalls in the neighborhood?


Yes, there are several must-try street food vendors and stalls in the neighborhood. Some popular ones include:

1. The Halal Guys – known for their iconic chicken and rice platters, this food cart is a staple in the neighborhood and has a cult following.
2. The Arepa Lady – a Colombian food cart that serves delicious arepas (savory corn cakes) with various fillings such as cheese, meat, and plantains.
3. Joe’s Pizza – this traditional New York pizzeria has been serving up slices since 1975 and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
4. Wafels & Dinges – a Belgian waffle truck that offers both sweet and savory options with an array of toppings to choose from.
5. Big Gay Ice Cream – this ice cream truck offers unique and indulgent flavors such as Salty Pimp (vanilla soft serve with dulce de leche, sea salt, and chocolate dip) and Bea Arthur (dulce de leche soft serve with crushed Nilla wafers).
6. Calexico – stop by this Mexican food cart for some mouth-watering tacos, burritos, and nachos.
7. Mamoun’s Falafel – serving up authentic Middle Eastern cuisine since 1971, this falafel spot is a go-to for delicious shawarma wraps and hummus plates.

6. What is the average price range for meals at restaurants and food stalls in Tanah Merah?


The average price range for meals at restaurants and food stalls in Tanah Merah is between $5-$15 SGD.

7. Is it possible to find international cuisine options, such as Italian or Japanese, around Tanah Merah?


Yes, there are various international cuisine options available around Tanah Merah. You can find Italian restaurants such as Pasta Fresca Da Salvatore and Jamie’s Italian at Changi Airport Terminal 3. There are also Japanese options like Yayoi and Sushi Tei located at East Village complex. Additionally, there are other international cuisines like Thai, Korean, Indian, and Western food available in the nearby malls and shopping complexes such as Bedok Mall, Tampines Mall, and Parkway Parade.

8. Are there any upscale dining options or fine-dining restaurants in the area?


Yes, there are several upscale dining options and fine-dining restaurants in the area. Some examples include:

1. The Herbfarm – This award-winning restaurant offers a luxurious farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on Pacific Northwest ingredients.

2. Canlis – Located on the shores of Lake Union, this iconic restaurant serves high-end cuisine and has stunning views of the Seattle skyline.

3. Cafe Juanita – Known for its sophisticated Northern Italian dishes, this restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list and elegant ambiance.

4. Copperleaf Restaurant – Located in the Cedarbrook Lodge hotel, this fine-dining establishment features locally sourced, seasonal dishes in a refined setting.

5. Serafina Osteria e Enoteca – Serving authentic Italian fare in a cozy and romantic setting, this restaurant is perfect for a special occasion.

6. El Gaucho Bellevue – A classic steakhouse known for its elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and high-quality cuts of meat.

7. Bateau – This upscale French-inspired steakhouse emphasizes sustainable agriculture and serves dry-aged steaks from locally raised cows.

8. Altura – One of Seattle’s premier fine-dining destinations, Altura offers multi-course tasting menus featuring inventive Italian dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

9. How do locals typically eat their meals – traditionally, with utensils, or with their hands?


The way locals eat their meals can vary depending on the specific country or culture. In general, many cultures have traditional ways of eating that involve using hands instead of utensils. Other cultures may use utensils for most meals but have certain dishes or occasions where it is customary to eat with hands.

Some examples of countries where eating with hands is common include India, Ethiopia, and parts of Southeast Asia. In these places, it is customary to eat with your right hand and use only your fingers to pick up food. This method of eating is seen as more practical and also adds a sensory experience to the meal.

On the other hand, in Western cultures, using utensils such as forks, knives, and spoons is the norm for most meals. This has been influenced by European dining customs and etiquette, which place value on manners and proper table settings.

It should be noted that even within a single culture or country, there may be variations in how meals are eaten. For example, in some parts of India, it may be considered polite to use utensils while in other regions using hands is more common.

Overall, whether a person eats with their hands or utensils largely depends on their cultural background and personal preference. When traveling to a new place, it is always best to observe how locals are eating and follow suit if unsure.

10. Are there any popular local dishes that are not commonly found in other parts of Thailand?


Yes, there are a few popular local dishes that are unique to certain regions in Thailand and cannot be found elsewhere. Some examples include:

1. Khao Soi in Chiang Mai – This dish consists of egg noodles in a creamy coconut curry broth, often topped with crispy egg noodles and served with pickled mustard greens.

2. Nam Prik Kapi in Southern Thailand – A spicy dip made with shrimp paste, chilies, and other ingredients, typically enjoyed with fresh vegetables.

3. Sanut Thot Man Pla in Phuket – Fried fish cakes made with local herbs and spices, served with a sweet chili dipping sauce.

4. Sai Ua (Chiang Mai sausage) – Flavored pork sausage often seasoned with lemongrass, galangal, chili, and herbs.

5. Ho Mok (Mussels Steamed in Banana Leaves) in Samut Songkhram – Fresh mussels cooked in a coconut milk-based curry sauce wrapped in banana leaves for added flavor.

6. Gang Hang Lay (Northern Thai Pork Belly Curry) – A rich and flavorful curry dish made with pork belly, turmeric, and other spices commonly found in Northern Thailand.

7. Kanom Jeen Namya (Rice Noodles with Chicken Curry) – A popular dish from the central region of Thailand consisting of rice noodles topped with a rich and spicy green curry sauce made from chicken or fish.

8. Mee Krob (Crispy Noodle Salad) in Bangkok – Stir-fried crispy rice noodles tossed with a tangy and slightly sweet dressing along with vegetables, shrimp, and tofu.

9. Kua Kling (Dry Curry Beef) in Krabi – A fiery dry beef curry dish flavored with aromatic spices such as kaffir lime leaves, turmeric, coriander seeds, and cumin.

10. Pad Sataw (Stir-Fried Stink Beans) in Rayong – A stir-fry dish made with crunchy and flavorful “stink beans” (Parkia speciosa), a popular ingredient in Thai cooking.

11. What are some unique ingredients or flavors used in the local cuisine of Tanah Merah?


– Belacan (fermented shrimp paste)
– Sarang Semut (ant’s nest soup)
– Tempoyak (fermented durian paste)
– Daun Kaduk (wild pepper leaf)
– Ikan Patin (giant freshwater catfish)
– Kerabu Kacang Botol (winged bean salad)
– Rendang Daging Salai (smoked beef rendang)
– Keropok Lekor (fish sausages)
– Serunding Ayam/Daging (shredded chicken/beef floss)
– Masak Lemak Cili Api (spicy coconut curry)

12. Can you suggest a good place to try authentic Thai curry dishes?

One recommended place to try authentic Thai curry dishes is at a local, family-owned restaurant that specializes in Thai cuisine. These types of restaurants typically use traditional recipes and ingredients, resulting in a more authentic and flavorful dish. Make sure to ask the server or chef for their recommendations on the best and most popular curry dishes on the menu. Some popular Thai curry dishes include green curry, red curry, and massaman curry. Enjoy!

13. Are there any rooftop restaurants with good views of the city?

Yes, there are several rooftop restaurants in the city with great views including:

1. Top of the Hub: located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower, this restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline and delicious American cuisine.

2. Legal Harborside: situated on the waterfront, this three-story seafood restaurant has a rooftop deck with panoramic views of Boston Harbor.

3. Lookout Rooftop and Bar: located at The Envoy Hotel, this stylish rooftop bar offers tasty drinks and small plates along with sweeping views of downtown Boston.

4. Rooftop@Revere: part of the Revere Hotel Boston Common, this popular rooftop bar serves up creative cocktails and stunning views of Back Bay.

5. Yotel Boston Sky Lounge: perched atop the Yotel Boston hotel, this modern rooftop lounge boasts impressive views of Seaport District and Fort Point Channel.

6. Legal Crossing – City Suite Bar: located in Downtown Crossing, this upscale restaurant has a cozy rooftop bar with lovely views of Downtown Boston.

7. The Red Lantern Restaurant & Lounge: situated in Back Bay, this Asian-fusion restaurant has a spacious rooftop patio with twinkling lights and great views of the city.

8. Coppersmith Rooftop Farm & Kitchen: set atop a renovated warehouse in South Boston’s Seaport neighborhood, this trendy spot features a seasonal menu and gorgeous skyline views.

9. Pier 6 Rooftop Bar + Restaurant: located on top of an old Naval Armory overlooking Charlestown Navy Yard and downtown Boston, this seafood restaurant has a beautiful outdoor patio with fire pits and water views.

10. Abby Lane Food & Spirits Patio & Lounge: seated on top of Theater District’s famous Alley area lies a sleek contemporary eatery that is noted for its urban-hip settings coupled with awesome city skyline backdrop (with special weekend DJ nights).

14. How late do most restaurants and food stalls stay open at night?


Most restaurants and food stalls stay open until midnight, while some may stay open later into the night or 24 hours. It depends on the location and the type of food being served. In big cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai, there are many restaurants that stay open till early morning to cater to the nightlife crowd. However, in smaller towns or rural areas, restaurants may close earlier around 9-10pm.

15. Are there any food markets or night markets nearby where I can sample various snacks and street food?


Yes, there are several food markets and night markets near Disney World where you can try a variety of snacks and street food. Some popular options include the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, which takes place annually, featuring international cuisine and beverages; the Disney Springs Marketplace, where you can find different food vendors offering dishes from around the world; and the Orlando Farmer’s Market, held on Sundays with a wide selection of locally-sourced produce and artisanal goods. Additionally, there are various food trucks and pop-up markets that offer unique snacks and treats throughout the year.

16. Do most places accept credit cards or is it better to have cash on hand?

Most places accept credit cards, but it is always good to carry some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of emergencies. Some places may also have a minimum amount required for card transactions.

17. How safe is it to eat street food in Tanah Merah?


It is generally safe to eat street food in Tanah Merah, as long as you observe basic hygiene practices and choose stalls or vendors that are popular with locals. Street food in Singapore is strictly regulated and most vendors must adhere to strict cleanliness standards imposed by the National Environment Agency. However, it is always recommended to use your own discretion and be mindful of the cleanliness of the stall or vendor before purchasing food.

18. Can you recommend a good spot for a romantic dinner with views of the beach?

There are many great options for a romantic dinner with views of the beach in various locations, but here are a few that stand out:

1. The Beachcomber Café at Crystal Cove in Newport Beach: This charming seaside restaurant offers beautiful ocean views and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner. Their menu features fresh seafood and other delicious dishes.

2. Bluewater Grill in Redondo Beach: This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the marina and ocean, as well as delicious seafood options. They also have fire pits on their outdoor patio for a cozy ambience.

3. Duke’s in Malibu: Located right on the beach, this Hawaiian-inspired restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy their signature cocktails and fresh seafood while watching the sunset with your loved one.

4. Geoffrey’s Malibu: Known for its romantic setting and stunning ocean views, Geoffrey’s is a popular spot for special occasions. The outdoor patio provides an unobstructed view of the beach, making it ideal for a romantic dinner.

5. La Jolla Cove in San Diego: For a more casual dining experience with equally beautiful views, take your significant other to one of the many restaurants along La Jolla Cove’s shoreline. You can enjoy a meal while watching sea lions play just steps away from you.

19. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in this area? If so, how much is an appropriate amount?

Yes, it is customary to tip at restaurants in this area. The standard tip is 15-20% of the total bill before tax, but it ultimately depends on the level of service you received. If your server went above and beyond or if you had a large group, a larger tip would be appropriate. Leaving less than 15% may be considered as a sign of dissatisfaction with the service. You can also consider leaving a higher tip for exceptional service.

20.Is it possible to find Halal-certified options for Muslim travelers near Tanah Merah?


Yes, it is possible to find Halal-certified options for Muslim travelers near Tanah Merah. Some options include:

1. Halal restaurants: There are several halal restaurants located near Tanah Merah, such as Ayam Penyet Ria Bedok North, Safron’s Turkish Restaurant and Deli, and Warung Kampong Foodcourt.

2. Muslim-owned food stalls: In the Bedok area, there are many hawker centres where you can find stalls run by Muslim owners serving halal food. Some examples include Bedok North Street 3 Block 538 Market & Food Centre and Bedok Interchange Hawker Centre.

3. Mosques: The Al-Khair Mosque in nearby Tampines and the Masjid Darul Aman in Changi are both within a 10-15 minute drive from Tanah Merah.

4. Supermarkets: There are several supermarkets near Tanah Merah that offer a wide range of halal products, such as FairPrice Xtra at Changi Business Park and Giant Hypermarket at Tampines.

5. Hotels with halal-certified options: Many hotels in Singapore offer halal-certified dining options, including hotels near Tanah Merah such as Village Hotel Katong and PARKROYAL on Pickering.

Additionally, Singapore has strict laws about food labeling, so even if a restaurant or food stall is not officially certified as halal, they may still offer halal food options. It is always recommended to check with the staff or look for halal certification logos before consuming any food.