Last Updated on 26/04/2023 by iEat&Eat Team

Discover the delightful world of Peranakan cuisine at Singapore’s finest eateries! Let’s delve into some history: the union of Straits Chinese and Malays led to the development of a refined culture among the Nyonyas (women) and Babas (men). This unique culture is evident in the traditional clothing, handicrafts, and most notably, scrumptious food.

Peranakan cuisine in Singapore is an amalgamation of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences, resulting in a tantalizing fusion of bold flavours, enticing aromas, and comforting home-cooked goodness. Feeling famished? Your search for the best Peranakan restaurants ends here.

1. Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen

Website | 328 Joo Chiat Rd, #01-02, Singapore 427585 | +65 8450 7996

Indulge in delectable dishes at this restaurant that boasts of recipes passed down from generation to generation, a testament to their exceptional taste! This halal-certified establishment exudes a cosy vintage vibe, which perfectly complements the authentic and traditional fare they serve.

Make sure to try their signature grilled sambal barramundi and the modernized chinchalok omelette, both of which are must-tries!

2. Simply Peranakan Cuisine

Website | 28 Cavenagh Rd, #01-05 Hotel Chancellor @, Singapore 229635 | +65 9685 3388

Craving affordable and filling Peranakan cuisine in Singapore? Look no further than this restaurant, ideal for those new to the world of this one-of-a-kind fare. With its welcoming and cosy atmosphere, it has earned a reputation for serving scrumptious dishes and providing friendly service.

You simply can’t leave without trying some of their signature delicacies such as the tangy assam fish head curry, the succulent chicken in plum sauce, and the flavorful bakwan kepiting soup.

3. Chilli Padi Nonya Restaurant

Website | 11 Joo Chiat Pl, #01-03, Singapore 427744 | +65 6275 1002

As you enter the cosy establishment, get ready to savour a comforting meal with a spicy kick, courtesy of their signature sambal belacan. Whether you opt for the east-side restaurant or the Queenstown cafe, you’re in for a treat with their mouth-watering dishes. Be sure to sample their specialities, such as the bakwan kepiting (pork and crab meatball soup), gula melaka assam prawns, and Nyonya fried chicken wings – all of which are simply divine!

4. Candlenut

Website | 17a Dempsey Rd, Singapore 249676 | +65 1800 304 2288

Under the leadership of chef-owner Malcolm Lee, the world’s inaugural Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant takes traditional cuisine to new heights with its contemporary interpretation. For the ultimate culinary adventure, try the Taste of Candlenut menu, featuring delectable dishes such as the wagyu beef rendang, ikan gulai (snapper fillet curry), and the decadent gula melaka cake – a truly unforgettable dining experience.

5. Violet Oon Singapore

Website | 881 Bukit Timah Rd, Singapore 279893 | +65 9834 9935

Renowned gastronome Violet Oon leads the namesake bistro, celebrating Singapore’s diverse cultural heritage. The trendy and iconic establishment showcases Nyonya classics, including the must-try ayam buah keluak (braised chicken in black nut gravy), dry laksa, and sambal eggplant. And don’t forget to save room for dessert, with irresistible options such as kueh beng kah (tapioca cake with coconut milk and gula melaka) and pulut hitam (black glutinous rice) with coconut ice cream.

With various locations across the island, each with its unique ambience, the black marbled surfaces, gold accents, and framed Peranakan tiles remain consistent. Psst: As part of the Made With Passion initiative that celebrates local brands that embody the Singaporean spirit of transforming possibilities into reality, Violet Oon is one of the many featured brands.

6. Godmama

Website | 107 North Bridge Rd, #04-07, Singapore 179105 | +65 6970 0828

For an innovative take on Peranakan cuisine, head to Godmama, where you can enjoy the sleek indoor ambience or opt for the alfresco area. With a fusion of traditional and modern offerings, the restaurant serves up delectable dishes such as the flavorful buah keluak fried rice, succulent pork collar satay, and the indulgent tiger prawn laksa pasta – a feast for your senses.

7. House of Peranakan

Website | 42 Eng Hoon St, Estate 169785 | +65 6222 1719

Since chef-owner Bob Seah founded the Peranakan Inn in 1985, the House of Peranakan restaurant group has expanded to offer three distinctive Peranakan dining concepts. With their signature home-style Nyonya fare, patrons can enjoy delectable dishes such as the iconic curry fish head, tangy assam prawns, and the comforting pulut hitam. Simple, genuine, and heartwarming – exactly how we like it. Fun fact: this establishment has welcomed esteemed guests, including past presidents and Thai royalty.

8. Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant

Website | 200 Joo Chiat Rd, #01-01, Singapore 427471 | +65 6344 2761

Established in 1953, Guan Hoe Soon is recognized as one of Singapore’s oldest Peranakan restaurants, famed for its straightforward Nyonya cuisine. Patrons can take their pick from an array of dishes such as the iconic ayam buah keluak, hearty sayur lodeh, and the zesty udang assam pedas (prawns in spicy tamarind sauce) for a classic dining experience.

Do note that dishes come in three sizes – small, medium, and large – giving you plenty of options to suit your appetite.

9. The Blue Ginger

Website | 97 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088518 | +65 6222 3928

The Blue Ginger, a family-run restaurant established in 1995, is renowned for its exquisite Peranakan cuisine and bears the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand title. For an authentic experience, visit the original Tanjong Pagar location to savour flavorful plates of beef rendang, pork ribs assam, and kueh pie tee.

Alternatively, indulge in the outlet-exclusive Nyonya noodles and buah keluak fried rice at the elegant, contemporary Great World eatery. And be sure to save room for the creamy durian chendol dessert – a delectable must-try!

10. Ivins Peranakan Restaurant

Website | 21 Binjai Park, Singapore 589827 | +65 6468 3060

While the decor of this Bukit Timah restaurant may not be Instagram-worthy, you’re not here for aesthetics but for the sumptuous food. For a reasonable price, indulge in their signature dishes such as the delectable itek sio (braised duck in tamarind and coriander gravy), succulent sambal prawns, and the iconic curry fish head.

Here’s a tip: don’t miss out on mixing the gravy with your rice for an explosion of flavours. Trust us; your taste buds will thank you later.