Before the arrival of Western sweets, Singapore had nonya kueh. Captivatingly colourful, scrumptiously sweet (and sometimes, savoury), whimsically wobbly, strikingly shaped, and all-around alluring, nonya kuehs have managed to defy the attrition of time, and has firmly ingrained itself into the nation’s collective palate.

Nonya kueh (or Malay kuih) is a type of dessert created in the South-East Asian region, serving as bite-sized snacks for the peckish to intersperse throughout the day. More than a tea-time snack of the elderly or an occasional treat your adoring grandparents indulged you with, nonya kueh forms an integral part of the Peranakan culinary heritage.

While many traditional desserts are struggling to stay relevant to present-day dessert preferences, nonya kuehs have not only seamlessly transitioned into modernity, the recent resurgence of interest in Peranakan fare has skyrocketed them to the forefront of our consciousness as well.

Whether you’re kueh-ving for a classic treat or something with a more contemporary spin (or even both!), we have put together a guide for you to track down all your favourite kuehs and more!

Photo Credit: https://www.hungrygowhere.com/singapore/ah_meng/

AH MENG

A place with no shortage of good food, Hong Lim Market hides another gem: Ah Meng. Huddled on the second floor, passersby who wander into visual range are instinctively drawn to the array of kueh and the perpetual fragrance of coconut.

Renowned for having kuehs with delightfully velveteen textures, some regulars swear by the Sweet Potato Ondeh Ondeh for having the optimal ratio of skin to filling, while others consider the Gula Melaka Tapioca Kueh with its literal burst of caramel their favourite treat instead.

Block 531A Upper Cross Street
Hong Lim Food Centre, #02-45
Singapore 051531
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/babachewssg/

BABA CHEWS

The resident restaurant of Hotel Indigo, Baba Chews is notable for effortlessly converging traditional Peranakan flavours with Western and local flavours. While the restaurant does not serve traditional nonya kuehs, the one kueh they do serve has received nothing short of stellar reviews from locals and visitors alike: Kueh Durian.

Inspired by kueh dadar, the dish comprises of a wonderfully creamy durian mousse wrapped in aromatic pandan crepes before being topped with a scoop of honeyed gula melaka ice cream. A perfectly nectarous treat!

86 East Coast Road
Katong Square
Singapore 428788
Tel: +65 6723 2025
Daily: 6.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/f/fClX3PKU

BOROBUDUR SNACKS SHOP

On the exterior is a weatherworn, greying shop front that looks like it has been taken straight out of a time machine; in contrast, a bright, vivid assortment of neatly lined nonya kuehs sits just by the entrance. This is one of Bedok’s best-kept secrets: a longstanding Indonesian sweets specialist that serves kuehs with tastes from a bygone era.

While their traditional kuehs – they have uncommon classics too! – are fantastic, the all-time customer favourite is their Durian Ambon with its rich durian flavour held within a spongy, airy texture.

537 Bedok North Street 3
Singapore 460537
Tel: +65 6442 7637
Daily: 6.30am – 6.30pm

Nearest Station: Bedok North

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/candlenut.sg/

CANDLENUT

The first Peranakan restaurant to achieve the prestigious Michelin Star, Candlenut’s fare is one that celebrates the time-honoured flavours of Peranakan cuisine with the occasional modern twist.

Wishing to share a taste of his childhood, and wanting to show the world that our humble dessert is worthy of a spot in a Michelin-starred establishment, Chef Malcom offers a handmade, elevated version of his favourite kueh, the kueh salat, every night in his restaurant. The catch? Due to the laborious process, only 20 plates are available daily.

17A Dempsey Road
Singapore 249676
Tel: 1800 304 2288 (Local calls only)
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

Photo Credit: http://www.harrianns.com/

HARRIANNS NONYA TABLE

A homegrown family brand, HarriAnns started in 1940s as an unassuming pushcart business in the Tiong Bahru district. Since then, the brand has blossomed into a chain that offers not just nonya kueh, but several self-contained Peranakan mains as well. Despite that, the linchpin of the brand still resides in its nonya kueh, each carefully handcrafted with cherished family recipes.

Their Rainbow Lapis Kueh is the brand’s unexpected signature; boldly vibrant and delicately supple, the best way to fully appreciate this treat is to savour it by layer.

230 Victoria Street
Bugis Junction Towers, #01-01A
Singapore
Tel: +65 6238 1200
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8.30pm
Sat & Sun: 8.30am – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: www.hjmaimunah.com/

HJH MAIMUNAH

One of the more acclaimed nasi padang establishments in Singapore, Hjh Maimunah serves homecooked-styled Malaysian and Indonesian nasi Padang. Besides savoury dishes, you can find one of the most extensive collections of traditional kueh in Singapore.

With a variety of thirty available, you can find everything from the popular kueh kaswi to rarer alternatives like the kueh wajik (a saccharine, sticky glutinous rice morsel). The secret to the almost magical consistency and quality of the kueh? You can thank Chef Supinah, the brand’s dessert chef for her unwavering exacting standards!

11 & 15 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199078
Mon to Sat: 7am – 8pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Tel: +65 6297 4294
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

JI XIANG CONFECTIONARY

For fans of ang ku kueh, listen up. An ang ku kueh specialist (their menu only comprises of the oval-shaped treat), Ji Xiang has been serving this snack from 1985, gradually reshaping the public’s perception of it with their palatable rendition since.

Adopting the nonya style, the skin of the kueh here is chewier, providing a more gratifying mouthfeel. As of writing, it has a selection of 8 flavours that include the traditional peanut filling and sweet bean paste, to more modern additions like coconut and their seasonal durian variants.

Block 1 Everton Park
#01-33
Singapore 081001
Tel: +65 6223 1631
Mon to Sat: 9am – 5pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Outram Park

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/kimchookuehchang/

KIM CHOO KUEH CHANG

“A taste of culture, borne from traditions” – since 1945, Kim Choo Kueh Chang has been a proud custodian of Singapore’s nonya history and culture, presenting the public with an authentic, homely taste of Peranakan fare.

In addition to its outstanding rice dumplings, Kim Choo still produces old-school nonya kuehs. Although the selection is less robust today, the kitchen handcrafts each kueh with unpretentious precision, doling out flavours reminiscent of a relative’s kitchen at reasonable prices.

109/111 East Coast Road
Singapore 428801
Tel: +65 6741 2125
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Marine Parade
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/KUEHGARDEN011245/

KUEH GARDEN

Another ang ku kueh specialist, Kueh Garden has taken a similar approach to Ji Xiang by including a choice selection of new flavours alongside its traditional offerings. Unlike Ji Xiang’s, the skin of the kuehs here are thinner; a bite will split the skin apart easily, revealing the thick layer filling within.

Besides the usual red bean, green bean and peanut flavours, the brand’s more unique flavours include coffee and green tea for caffeine lovers, and a creamy durian version that is available year-round.

348 Jurong East Avenue 1
Singapore 600348
Tel: +65 6294 9182
Mon: 7.30am – 3.00pm
Tue to Sat: 7.30am – 7.00pm
Fri: 7.30am – 5.00pm
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/LekLimNonyaCake/

LEK LIM NONYA CAKE CONFECTIONARY

Food heritage brands in Singapore are naturally disappearing, with many younger generations scions unwilling to take on the task of upholding typically laborious traditional techniques and methods. This could have been the fate of Lek Lim too if current third-generation owner, Gavin, did not trade his corporate job to take over his parents’ legacy.

Besides their glistening, sizable ang ku kuehs and usual collection of sweet nonya treats, the brand offers a mixture of equally appetising savoury morsels – including their chive kueh and soon kueh – as well.

Bedok North Street
Block 84, #01-21
Singapore 188017
Tel: +65 6449 0815
Mon to Sat: 5am – 5pm
Sun: 5am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah
**  Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@phoebetingsy

LINA CONFECTIONARY & TRADING

Most of the kuehs in Singapore have a predominant local Peranakan or Malay influence. But for those seeking treats with more of an Indonesian twist – usually holding a sweeter profile – besides Hjh Maimunah, Lina in Alexandra can provide you with kuehs moulded closer to the flavours of our south.

Since 1989, Lina has been hand-making all their confectionaries, an arduous tradition that endures even today. Besides their Steamed Rainbow Lapis and lapis cakes, try their kueh dadar for a tongue-tingling taste experience.

124 Bukit Merah Lane 1
Singapore 150124
Tel: +65 6271 6996
Daily: 9.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/MakkoTeckNeo/

MAKKO TECK NEO

Hidden in the quiet estate of Telok Blangah is a Peranakan café specialising in nonya comfort food. Despite its modest choice of location, Makko Teck Neo always seems to have at least one occupied table in its premises, a testament to the quality of its fare.

Featuring a full-fledged kueh menu, take your pick from 16 distinct sweet and savoury morsels from Kueh Talam to Rempah Udang. Typically served in either pairs or triplets, these desserts are both wallet-friendly and marvellous for sharing with your tablemates.

Block 35 Telok Blangah Rise
#01-303
Singapore 090035
Tel: +65 6275 1330
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 9.45am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Telok Blangah

MILK MOONS

The sister brand of Chalk Farm, Milk Moons is a spinoff that focuses on the colourful flavours of the region while retaining the rustic charm the siblings’ cakes are known for.

While the display tends to be filled with a satisfying sight of perfectly smooth and round cakes, closer observation shows that some of these creations are really just enormous cylinders of kuehs. For a truly indulgent kueh experience, grab a hefty slice (or even the entire cake) of their bestselling kueh salat and kueh lapis.

391 Orchard Road
Takashimaya, #B208-5
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65
Daily: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/MollyNonyaCakeandConfectionaryPteLtd/

MOLLY’S NONYA CAKE & CONFECTIONARY

A true-blue family-run establishment, after Molly’s husband-wife founding duo retired, their dream to propagate the flavours of nonya treats to the nation was inherited by their son and daughter, both of whom continue to serve their parents’ 50-year-old recipes today.

Packed shoulder to shoulder, to disperse any potential choice paralysis from their very respectable offering of kuehs, try their ondeh ondeh – with a coconut-infused gula melaka centre – and their special Red Bean Lapis for a taste of a home away from home.

104 Hougang Avenue 1
#01-1121
Singapore 530104
Tel: +65 6286 4234
Mon to Sat: 5am – 7.30pm
Sun: 5am – 7.30pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

Photo Credit: https://www.mrskueh.com/

MRS KUEH

There are many ways a parent can showcase their love. Perhaps it’s through gift-giving, or maybe it’s through bringing their kids on adventures; for others, it’s through food. That was the case for the real Mrs Kueh, the mother and inspiration of the brand’s founder, Maureen.

Effortless creative, stylishly contemporary and a wicked cook – these are the distilled values that Maureen hopes to impart into her sweets. Available only online or at Clan Café, the lovingly crafted classic kueh salat is a luxurious treat not to be missed.

97 Frankel Avenue
Singapore 458222
Mon to Fri: 11am – 5pm
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Nearest Station: Kembangan
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.rainbowlapis.com/

RAINBOW LAPIS

No prizes for guessing what Rainbow Lapis’ signatures are. (Not just the Rainbow Lapis, but its Lapis creations in general!) Created with the hope of preserving and extolling the heritage of kueh in Singapore, all sweets here are crafted to a quality sufficient to uphold the significance of these sweets to our culinary history.

Besides the two obvious customer favourites, other sweets you should try include their fluffy apong belak, and if you’re lucky, maybe you’ll be able to sample the brand’s very own interpretation of the Eurasian kueh putugal.

101 Upper Cross Street
People’s Park Centre, Level 1
Singapore 058358
Tel: +65 6244 8719
Daily: 8.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/RumahBebeSG/

RUMAH BEBE

Found right next to Kim Choo, Rumah Bebe is one-half a heritage boutique cum private museum specialising in Peranakan paraphernalia, and one-half a traditional Peranakan restaurant. Sticklers for tradition, the food here brims with the rich flavours of the cuisine. The downside? Get ready to pay for said quality.

For lovers of kueh ambon, why not try its cousin, kueh bingka here instead? Similarly crafted from tapioca, the cake is denser, thus inviting a more intense tapioca and coconut flavour than its ambon counterpart.

113 East Coast Road
Singapore 428803
Tel: +65 6247 8781
Tue to Sun: 9.30am – 6.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Eunos / Paya Lebar

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheBlueGinger/

THE BLUE GINGER

A staple for fans of nonya food, The Blue Ginger has long been a beloved brand of many of Peranakan lineage, and has recently achieved recognition with its delectable yet sensibly priced fare.

Offering a rotational selection of kuehs – with the exception of the evergreen kueh salat and kueh bingka at their Great World branch – whether you are greeted with the prismatic colours of their rainbow lapis or the lively flavours of their springy ambon, it will likely be an exquisite treat well worth the surprise.

97 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088518
Tel: +65 6222 3928
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

TIONG BAHRU GALICIER PASTRY BAKERY

A stalwart bastion of nonya sweets, Tiong Bahru Galicier has been enamouring senses since its inception, enrapturing with its beautiful array of traditional kuehs. So prominent is its reputation that regardless of the time, you will likely find a mix of the curious and hungry in its midst.

Go for the classics here for a taste of nostalgia – their kueh kosui and ongol-ongol are results of a precarious culinary balancing act, and their putu ayu have both a coconut and gula melaka crown for added flavour and texture contrast.

Block 55 Tiong Bahru Road
#01-39
Singapore 160055
Tel: +65 6324 1686
Tue to Sun: 10am – 8.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Tok-Panjang-Nonya-cafe-149218025748186/

TOK PANJANG NONYA CAFÉ

If the spirited owner of the café catches you eyeing his enticing assortment of nonya sweets, you can expect to be the recipient of a heartfelt spiel about his kuehs. For those who sample his wares, you’ll understand why he is as resolute as he is: his kuehs are really good.

The counters typically empty by midday – his especially plush kueh koswee tend to be the first to disappear – so head over early to avoid disappointment. If you’d prefer to get an all-encompassing taste of his sweets, try the 5-kueh platter instead.

1 Jalan Anak Bukit
Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-52C
Singapore 588996
Tel: +65 9273 7979
Daily: 9am – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: King Albert Park

Singapore has gone through plenty of changes over the years and we have evolved from a humble little fishing village to a bustling economic hub. As we continue to progress and grow, it is inevitable that we leave behind certain parts of our culture and roots.

One area that has certainly gone through plenty of changes is our food scene. Over the years, with new food fads popping up all over the place, old school snacks and eats have been pushed aside and forgotten, especially by the new generation of youths. We bet that if you approach any teenager now and ask them if they want to follow you to get some bo bo cha cha, they would respond with a blank stare and a confused “huh?”.

For those of you who are sick of the salted egg and mala trends and believe that old is gold, here is our guide to 10 old-school places in Singapore that sell nostalgic foods from your childhood. For the people who don’t know anything about traditional Singapore food, educate yourselves by reading this list.

75 AH BALLING PEANUT SOUP 

Tang Yuan—also known as Glutinous Rice Dumplings—is a Chinese dessert traditionally eaten during the Winter Solstice. It is made from glutinous rice flour shaped into balls that encase different types of fillings such as peanut and sesame paste, which are then served in a sweetened soup.

75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup is one of our favourite places that serves up comforting bowls of this classic dessert. They originally started out as a simple pushcart stall along Jalan Sultan but ever since they’ve gained popularity, they now have multiple outlets islandwide.

Blk 85 Bedok North Street 4, #01-25
85 Fengshan Centre
Singapore 460085
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

**Multiple outlets islandwide

BISCUIT KING 

If you happen to be an avid fan of nostalgia and all things authentically Singaporean, then Biscuit King is a place you definitely have to check out. Stepping into this humble snack shop will transport you back to the heydays where these treats used to be more readily available.

From iconic games such as Old Maid and Happy Family to childhood snack time favourites such as iced gems, this is a place worth checking out no matter which generation you belong to. They also make an effort to retain their goodies in their original packaging so it looks and feels like the real deal.

130 Casuarina Road
Singapore 579518
Tel: +65 6458 0925
Tue to Sun: 11am – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Yio Chu Kang

CHA DIAN 

Tucked away at Amoy Street Food Centre is Cha Dian, a humble stall that anyone with a sheer love for traditional hand-made Teochew kueh should patronise. They specialise in a whole range of savoury, vegetable-stuffed kueh that come either steamed or fried.

If you’re spoilt for choice, we recommend that you try their classic Peng Kueh as well as the fried Pumpkin Cake. You can also ask the stall owner for an extra dollop of dark sweet sauce and chilli to enhance the experience!

7 Maxwell Road, #02-135
Singapore 069111
Tel: +65 9799 2003
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 2.30pm
(Closed on Weekends)
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Photo Credit: Fatt Soon Kueh 

FATT SOON KUEH 

Fatt Soon Kueh specialises in all sorts of traditional Teochew kueh and is easily one of our favourite Teochew Kueh spots to patronise in Singapore. Their savoury snacks are all wrapped and steamed in-house to ensure utmost freshness.

Their best-sellers include their Soon Kueh and Png Kueh. Topped with a sweet black sauce and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, this is a solid snack to have in between meals. We recommend paying the stall a visit during off-peak hours to avoid having a long wait.

208B New Upper Changi Road, 01-18
Singapore 460208
Mon to Sat: 9am – 7.30pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Bedok

GRANNY’S PANCAKE 

Love peanut pancakes? So do we. There is something oh-so-nostalgic about chomping down on these peanut-laden goodies and we absolutely love that satisfying crunch from the granules of sugar and nuts.

Stalls that specialise in peanut cakes are a dime in a dozen nowadays and it’s the folks like the ones who run Granny’s Pancake that make us all the more thankful that this childhood favourite hasn’t completely disappeared from the face of the earth. Serving up the classic peanut cake as well as others with different fillings, this humble stall is definitely a must-visit!

20 Ghim Moh Road
#01-52, Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre
Singapore 270020
Daily: 5am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

**Multiple outlets islandwide

JIE BAKERY 

When we crave for bread, several big names will immediately spring to mind. There are the more commercialised brands such as BreadTalk and Four Leaves, convenience stores, franchise bakeries or even petrol kiosks.

However, when it comes to freshly baked bread, nothing beats a traditional bakery. Trumping regular store-bought loaves any day, Jie Bakery is one of the few surviving traditional bakeries in Singapore that pushes out authentic, nostalgic bakes. Baked without preservatives using a recipe that has been perfected for the past 30 years, their bread is wholesome, fluffier than most and excellent with kaya slapped on.

123 Upper Paya Lebar Road
Singapore 534837
Tel: +65 9818 8386
Mon to Sat: 7am – 11pm
Sun: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

LEK LIM NONYA CAKE CONFECTIONERY 

Lek Lim Nonya Cake Confectionery is a Halal-certified bakery that has been around since the 1960s and they specialise in producing traditional nonya snacks. All these snacks are laboriously made by hand daily, which is what makes them so authentic. Their kuehs also have no preservatives in them to ensure that the quality and taste remains consistent and on point.

Some of the snacks that you can expect to indulge in are Ang Ku Kueh, Soon Kueh, Peng Kueh and Gu Chai Kueh. Beside kueh, they also have snacks like Curry Puffs, Sardine Puffs, Spring Rolls and Yam Cake.

84 Bedok North Street 4, #01-21
Singapore 460084
Tel: +65 6449 0815
Mon to Sat: 6am — 6pm
Sun: 6am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Bedok Reservoir

LIT LIT XIN 

Located just beside Northpoint City is Nice Snack Corner, a coffee shop that is home to a plethora of cheap and good eats. One of the stalls here that is worth mentioning is Lit Lit Xin, which specialises in Popiah and old school desserts such as Ice Kachang, Red Bean Soup and Bo Bo Cha Cha.

Our favourite is the classic Ice Kachang and we like how they allow diners to customise them however they please. This icy treat is perfect for combatting Singapore’s sweltering hot weather!

NO NAME CHENG TNG 

The solution to Singapore’s merciless weather is a refreshing bowl of cheng tng, which is essentially a clear, cooling soup that was drunk by coolies in the heydays. Each bowl of cheng tng is typically filled with gingko nuts, dried longan, red dates, candied winter melons and white fungus.

No Name Cheng Tng serves up some of the best Cheng Tng around and their thirst-quenching bowls of goodness are a lifesaver when the weather gets too unbearable. We also like how the Cheng Tng here has a much sweeter flavour as compared to most places.

69 #01-490 Bedok South Avenue
Block 69
Singapore 460069
Tue to Sun: 12.30pm – 8.15pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah

PING KEE POPIAH 

Ping Kee Popiah is one of the biggest mainstays at Sembawang Hills Food Centre and they have been consistently pushing out homely popiahs and kueh pie tees. Helmed by an amiable couple, they’ve been serving the same great popiahs for many years.

The ingredients used to make their popiahs are extremely fresh. Filled with crunchy bean sprouts, eggs, grounded peanut and plenty of braised turnip, it made for a myriad of textures playing on the tongue and created a familiar and satisfying mouthful. Despite such a generous serving of filling, the skin was surprisingly sturdy and held all the sauces and ingredients well without turning soggy or tearing apart.

590 Upper Thomson Road
#01-32 Sembawang Hill Food Centre
Singapore 574419
Tue to Sat: 11.15am – 8pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Ang Mo Kio

Ang ku kueh, png kueh, soon kueh — you name it, we love it. Kuehs are, hands down, one of Singapore’s more iconic desserts.

Coming in all shapes, sizes, colours and textures, kuehs are insanely versatile and there’s one for everybody. If you’re feeling peckish in the afternoon, these little treats are the perfect answer. Whether you like them sweet or savoury, we’ve got them all in the bag.

Here are 11 places that do islandwide delivery for traditional kueh in Singapore.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/harrianns/

#1 HARRIANNS NONYA TABLE

HarriAnns is like that grandmother you have who never fails to have a special treat waiting for you whenever you visit. This Peranakan dessert brand has become a trusted name for top-notch kuehs, pastries and cakes.

There is no minimum order for islandwide delivery, with delivery fees varying with distance. But, enjoy free delivery for orders S$80 and above.

WhatsApp them at +65 97923523 / +65 91917277 to place your order.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/fullhouseconfectionery/

#2 HOUGANG KUEH

Nope, these guys aren’t at Hougang. But, wherever they may be, you can be certain that they will surely deliver. Handmade with love, their kueh selection features peng kueh, soon kueh, chive kueh and more.

There is a minimum order of S$35 for free delivery. They update their delivery menu and schedule every week on their website.

Order via their website here.

Photo Credit: Serene Loh

#3 JIN XING HANDMADE KUEHS

You’ve probably never heard of Jin Xing Handmade Kuehs before. And if you have, lucky you. This under-the-radar gem in a Bukit Batok coffeeshop does some excellent kuehs at really reasonable prices.

Expect a variety of soon kuehs, peng kuehs and even yam abacus seeds. Their kueh skin is impeccably soft and will leave you wanting more after each bite.

Delivery fees depend on distance. Do order at least 3 days in advance to give them time for preparation. WhatsApp +65 8780 0531 to order today!

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/kuehhojiak/

#4 KUEH HO JIAK

Ang ku kueh is traditionally made with glutinous rice flour and colouring. But, Kueh Ho Jiak is turning heads with their gorgeous renditions made with sweet potato-infused skin.

If there was ever an ang ku kueh beauty pageant, Kueh Ho Jiak would win Miss Universe, hands down. You’ll find a wide range of intricately shaped kuehs at this stall, stuffed with varying flavours such as durian, red bean and yam.

Order via their website here.

#5 LEK LIM NONYA CAKE CONFECTIONERY

This third-generation business has been around for over 50 years, having its roots as a home business. Lek Lim Nonya Cake Confectionery specialises in handmade kueh, from ang ku kueh to kueh salat. But, they also offer pastries, puffs and savouries.

All orders are to be made by 4pm and at least 3 days in advance. Delivery charges depend on your location. If you’re staying in the East and your order is above S$150, enjoy free delivery!

Order via their website here.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/MollyNonyaCakeandConfectionaryPteLtd/

#6 MOLLY’S

Molly’s was founded by a husband-and-wife duo, and started out as a humble roadside stall along Sin Ming Road. Today, they’ve become a full-fledged confectionery selling amazing snacks and desserts.

Kueh dadar, kueh salat, kueh kor swee — they’ve got it all.

They deliver from 9am to 5pm, from Mondays to Saturdays only. A minimum order of S$50 is required for delivery, with the delivery fee depending on the distance. If your order goes above S$100, the delivery fee is waived!

Order via their online platform here.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/hakkapang/

#7 PANG’S HAKKA DELICACIES

Hakka food in a French dining establishment — it doesn’t get any cooler than that. Chef Pang, the owner of Antoinette, is paying homage to his Hakka roots with Pang’s Hakka Delicacies, a side hustle that usually operates on a takeaway-only basis.

Have no qualms ordering their Traditional Abacus Seeds (S$9 for 250g/S$31 for 1kg), which is one of the best renditions of the dish we’ve ever had. They also do less common Hakka kuehs such as Hakka Mugwort Kueh (S$10/3pc).

WhatsApp +65 9021 7507 to order.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pohcheukitchen/

#8 POH CHEU SOON KUEH AND ANG KU KUEH

Ang ku kueh comes in the wildest forms over here at Poh Cheu. 12 forms, to be exact. From green tea and durian to coffee and mango, their kitchen churns out the ang ku kueh of your dreams.

If you’d prefer to play on the safe side, they have the usual peanut and salted bean ones. Their soon kuehs (S$10/10pc) and yam abacus seeds (S$2.30) are stellar as well. Not to mention, super reasonably priced.

Order via their Oddle platform here.

Photo Credit: Rainbow Lapis

#9 RAINBOW LAPIS

Just like the kueh they’ve named themselves after, Rainbow Lapis offers layer after layer of quality, freshness and flavour. Their offerings are simply excellent, and range from traditional kuehs and cakes to buns and bread.

They’ve curated stunning Nonya Kueh Platters, with even one catered to vegans. The platter features popular kuehs such as Rainbow Lapis and Ubi Talam.

You can order via their online platform here.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/theangkukuehhut/

#10 THE ANG KU KUEH HUT

Yet another prime option for ang ku kuehs in Singapore. Not only do they do a-la-carte ang ku kuehs, they also offer kueh platters for baby showers or for special occasions in general. They’re also one of the few places that offer XL ang ku kuehs — we’re talking 16cm in length.

Islandwide delivery is going at a promotional flat rate of S$5 with a minimum purchase of 1 box of 10 kuehs. Free delivery applies if you order 60 pieces and above.

WhatsApp or call +65 8813 7636 to place your order.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/yoonstraditionalteochewkueh/

#11 YOON’S TRADITIONAL TEOCHEW KUEH

Have you ever had chi kak kueh before? If you haven’t, Yoon’s Traditional Teochew Kueh is one of the places that does this rare Teochew kueh. Stuffed with either bean paste or peanuts, the kueh is made with mugwort-infused skin.

Their traditional kueh selection also features harder-to-find items such as Pumpkin Cake and tiam tor kueh.

They’re offering a promotional delivery fee of S$5 flat, with no minimum order! What a steal. Place your order via their online form here.

Singapore is known to be a paradise for foodies due to the plethora of cuisines available and we’re proud to call this place home. Traditional snacks tend to get overshadowed by more popular foods but there’s something about them being so simple that we love.

Old is gold; these snacks are comforting and really brings us back to our younger days. Here are 8 traditional snacks that we love and will definitely make you nostalgic.

#1 EGG TARTS

Buttery and crispy on the outside and smooth eggy custard on the inside, you can find this delectable snack at most old-school bakeries. Some prefer a flaky crust, some prefer a more solid crust and some prefer bite-sized ones, some prefer larger ones. But we can all agree that egg tarts are best eaten when popped in the oven and served warm.

#2 KAYA TOAST

A local breakfast favourite, something about traditional bread toasted to perfection with a layer of kaya and a thick slice of butter just makes it so satisfying. It’s phenomenal when dipped in half-boiled eggs. Sweet and salty, you really can’t go wrong with this combination. Name a more iconic duo, we’ll wait.

#3 MIN CHIANG KUEH

Hokkien for peanut pancakes, sink your teeth into these Chinese-style pancakes that are crispy yet fluffy and generously filled with crushed peanuts and sugar. Some stalls also do a thinner and crispier version that is equally as tasty. For the busy bees, min chiang kueh is a popular option for breakfast on the go.

#4 NONYA KUEH

These bite-sized Peranakan treats – affectionately known as nonya kueh – are a staple in Peranakan cuisine. Popular with all generations, most kuehs have a chewy texture and contain coconut, pandan or gula melaka. Our favourite kueh growing up has undoubtedly got to be kueh lapis. Probably the most colourful kueh, it was and still is a joy peeling and eating this layer by layer.

#5 POPIAH

“Thin pancake” in Teochew, popiah is enjoyed by many. Stewed vegetables, egg, prawns, peanuts are wrapped in paper-thin skin that slathered with some garlic paste and sweet sauce. What you get is a humble and not to mention affordable traditional snack that is filling enough to make a meal.

#6 PUTU PIRING

We can’t get enough of these handmade Malay snacks that were featured in the Singapore episode of Netflix’s Street Food. Essentially steamed rice flour cakes, these warm pillowy treats ooze with gula melaka and are topped with loads of shredded coconut. This is one traditional snack that is loved by both adults and children alike.

#7 TEOCHEW KUEH

Contrary to nonya kueh which tends to be sweet, Teochew kueh such as png kueh, soon kueh and chwee kueh is savoury and equally as yummy. Packed with a generous amount of various vegetables and encased in thin, chewy rice skin, there are still several stalls specializing in these traditional snacks.

#8 YOU TIAO

This classic breakfast staple is a good example of less is more. Simply stretched dough sticks that are deep fried till golden brown, it’s crispy on the outside but airy and chewy on the inside. There’s nothing better than you tiao fresh out of the fryer and a cup of kopi or soybean milk to start the day.

Kuehs are common snacks of the Hokkien, Teochew and Peranakan cuisine. The terminology is actually a general description for bite-size nibbles. We realised that majority of foreigners and even generation Y Singaporeans are largely confused by what kuehs actually are and the different types of kuehs available.

These traditional delights come in many different forms and are either sweet or savoury. It could be a biscuit, cake, pudding or other rice-based treats. Preparations of kuehs are not confined to a single recipe due to its various Asian origins. Furthermore, most were actually created based on rough approximation.

If you are still confused, read our Beginner’s Guide to Kuehs and do make time to sample these lovely heritage desserts!

#1 ANG KU KUEH

Ang Ku Kueh is a soft Chinese pastry with sweet mung bean and peanut filling. The soft red skin that wraps the dessert is made with sweet potato and rice flour. The taste and texture of Ang Ku Kueh are very similar to that of Japanese mochi. When directly translated, Ang Ku Kueh actually means Red Tortoise Cake. The Hokkien name was given to the round shaped dessert due to its uncanny resemblance to a tortoise shell.

#2 CHWEE KUEH

Chwee Kuehs aka Water Rice Cakes are actually mini bowl-shaped steamed rice cakes topped with crunchy salted turnips. These savoury snacks are often consumed as breakfast in Singapore and are best served with chilli.

#3 KUEH TALAM

Kueh Talam is a classic Nyonya dessert. When translated, it means Coconut Tray Cake. Characterized by a rectangular block of green and white, this layered cake pudding is made with two key ingredients – pandan and coconut.

#4 KUIK TAKO

Kuik Tako aka Water Chestnut Dessert is a popular coconut-base dessert. It is a white square-shaped jelly wrapped with pandan leaves. The dessert itself is filled with diced water chestnuts and is best served cold.

#5 LAPIS SAGU

Lapis Sagu is a sweet 9-layer rainbow coloured kueh. Made with a mixture of different flour, coconut milk and sugar, the rainbow kueh is soft and chewy. The most intriguing part of this dessert is that you can peel off each layer!

#6 PNG KUEH

Png Kuehs are Teochew savoury glutinous rice cakes. These dumplings are available in different hues of pink and can be either steamed or pan-fried. Its fillings include a variety of ingredients such as peanuts, mushrooms and shrimps. For maximum satisfaction, eat it with sweet dark soy sauce and sambal chilli.

#7 ONDEH ONDEH

Ondeh Ondeh are green glutinous rice balls made with palm sugar and coated with freshly grated coconut. These sweet mini balls are extremely chewy as it is made with mainly glutinous rice flour.

#8 SOON KUEH

Soon Kueh is yet another classic Teochew dish. These delicate near-translucent dumplings are filled with dried prawns, minced pork and a myriad of shredded vegetables. Method of serving is similar to Png Kueh, where they are best eaten with soy sauce and chilli sauce.

#9 TUTU KUEH

Tutu Kuehs are mini steamed white rice cakes filled with either grated coconut or roasted peanuts. These traditional Singaporean desserts are served on a fragrant piece of pandan leaf and are nostalgic snacks for the older generation.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Illustrations for ladyironchef by Anna.