Explore Singapore: Accela’s Guide to Geylang
Photo by Ginnie Nguyen on Unsplash
A standout among Singapore’s typically pristine, clean neighbourhoods - Geylang is known as the city-state’s most famous red light district. The area has certainly been cleaned up over the last few years - particularly during the pandemic, which saw suspensions and closures of many of its famous karaoke lounges for which the area was known. Seedy history aside, Geylang is a great neighbourhood especially for local food - read on for our guide to our favourite spots in the area.
J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant
Arguably best known for its white pepper crab, this zi char restaurant has been a favourite for numerous celebrity chefs from around the world. While there are a variety of great other dishes to complement the crab, you don’t want to miss the most famous dish - so we recommend ordering in advance to secure your crabs before they run out for the night. Other Accela favourites include San Lou Bee Hoon, Garlic Chilli Lala and Deep Fried Fish Skin.
Address: 534 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389490
Opening hours: 5 PM - 2:15 AM daily
Contact: +65 6741 2418
Western Mahua 西部马华牛肉面
Located in a shopping mall - as many great food destinations in Singapore are - Western Mahua can be found at the basement 2 level of PLQ Mall. Drawing inspiration from the Silk Road, the Western Chinese restaurant offers a variety of dishes - but our favourite are the La Mian noodle dishes, with freshly made hand pulled noodles. Our go to is the Signature Bone Soup Beef La Mian, but close runners up include the Boiled Chicken Soup and Pickled Chicken Soup.
Address: 10 Paya Lebar Rd, B2-28 PLQ Mall, Singapore 409057
Opening hours: 11 AM - 9:15 PM daily
Contact: +65 6970 5188
Keng Wah Sung Cafe
One of the lesser-known hawkers in the area (see: Haig Road Market & Food Centre and Geylang Serai Market & Food Centre), is a relatively small coffee shop with just a few stalls, but definitely worth a visit. We love the wanton mee Leong Hua Wan Ton Noodles, and the kaya toast is also a must-try if you’re in the area for breakfast. Other popular offerings include local-style Economic Bee Hoon, Nasi Lemak and Mee Siam.
Address: 783 Geylang Road, Singapore 389672
Opening hours: Monday - Saturday, 5:30 AM - 11 PM (closed Sundays)
