If you’re seeking delectable tze char (also spelled “zi char”) in the Novena area of Singapore, you’re in for a treat. Tze char refers to a style of Chinese cooking that offers a wide variety of dishes, often reminiscent of home-cooked meals, served in a casual setting. Novena boasts several noteworthy tze char establishments that cater to diverse palates. Here’s a curated list of some of the best spots in and around Novena:
1. Bee Kia Seafood Restaurant
Located at 1 Thomson Road, Bee Kia Seafood Restaurant is renowned for its signature dishes like Beef Hor Fun and Har Cheong Gai (prawn paste chicken). Despite being situated in a kopitiam (coffee shop) setting, the quality of the food has garnered positive reviews from patrons. The Beef Hor Fun is praised for its tender beef slices and flavorful gravy, while the Har Cheong Gai boasts a crispy exterior with juicy meat inside.
2. Hong Kong Street Family Restaurant (Novena Gardens)
Situated at 273 Thomson Road, this establishment offers a variety of tze char dishes that have been well-received by diners. Notable dishes include the San Lau Hor Fun, which features generous servings of fish slices, and the Har Cheong Gai, known for its crispy batter and flavorful taste. The restaurant tends to be quite crowded, especially during peak hours, indicating its popularity among locals.
3. Crown Prince Kitchenette
Located in the Novena area, Crown Prince Kitchenette offers a mix of traditional and contemporary Chinese dishes. One of their standout offerings is the crispy bee hoon, which has been compared favorably to similar dishes from renowned establishments. The menu also includes a variety of Malaysian tze char dishes, providing a diverse dining experience.
4. Kam Jia Zhuang Seafood
While not directly in Novena, Kam Jia Zhuang Seafood is located nearby and is worth the short trip. The restaurant is known for its signature dishes, including the Deep Fried Chrysanthemum Grouper and Deep Fried Prawn Ball with Pumpkin and Butter Sauce. The fish is paired with a Thai-style sweet and sour sauce and a generous portion of mango salad, offering a delightful blend of flavors.
5. Chuan Kee Seafood
Located at 1091A Lower Delta Road, Chuan Kee Seafood has garnered a reputation as one of Singapore’s best-rated tze char stalls. Signature dishes include Coffee Pork Ribs, Si Fang Tou Fu, and Moonlight Hor Fun. The Coffee Pork Ribs are particularly noted for their tender meat and flavorful sauce.
6. Pin Hsiang Family Restaurant
Situated in the Novena area, Pin Hsiang Family Restaurant offers a range of tze char dishes. However, reviews have been mixed, with some patrons expressing dissatisfaction with the quality of the food. It’s advisable to check recent reviews or visit in person to form your own opinion.
7. Leong’s Legend Seafood Restaurant
Located at 275 Thomson Road, Leong’s Legend offers a variety of tze char dishes with a focus on seafood. Popular dishes include their Salted Egg Prawns and Black Pepper Crab. The restaurant provides a comfortable dining environment and is suitable for family gatherings.
8. Mellben Seafood
Situated at 211 Toa Payoh Lorong 8, Mellben Seafood is renowned for its Claypot Crab Bee Hoon Soup. The rich, flavorful broth paired with fresh crab makes it a must-try dish. The restaurant also offers other tze char favorites, making it a popular spot among locals.
9. Two Chefs Eating Place
Located at 116 Commonwealth Crescent, Two Chefs Eating Place is known for its Butter Pork Ribs, a dish that features tender pork ribs coated in a sweet milk powder. The unique combination of flavors has made it a favorite among patrons.
10. Ban Leong Wah Hoe Seafood
Situated at 122 Casuarina Road, Ban Leong Wah Hoe Seafood has been serving tze char dishes for decades. Signature dishes include their Chili Crab and Prawn Paste Chicken. The restaurant’s long-standing reputation speaks to its consistent quality.
When visiting these establishments, it’s advisable to check their operating hours and make reservations, especially during peak dining times, to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Each of these restaurants offers a unique take on tze char, reflecting the rich culinary diversity found in Singapore’s dining scene.