Best Places in Singapore to Buy Chinese New Year Food
Chinese New Year (CNY) is one of the most anticipated festivals in Singapore, and food plays a significant role in the celebrations. From traditional goodies to luxurious festive delicacies, Singapore offers a plethora of options for stocking up on Chinese New Year food. Here's a guide to the best places to shop:
1. Chinatown
Why Go: Chinatown is the heart of Chinese culture in Singapore and a must-visit for its vibrant CNY atmosphere.
What to Buy:
Bak Kwa (barbecued pork slices) from Lim Chee Guan or Bee Cheng Hiang.
Traditional cookies like pineapple tarts, love letters, and almond cookies.
Festive treats such as peanut candy and sesame crisps from Chinatown Street Market.
Tips: Visit the Chinatown Festive Street Bazaar for unique snacks and deals.
2. Tiong Bahru Bakery and Market
Why Go: A mix of old-school charm and modern flair, this area offers both classic and innovative CNY snacks.
What to Buy:
Handcrafted pineapple tarts from boutique bakeries.
Traditional snacks and fresh ingredients for home-cooked reunion dinners at the Tiong Bahru Wet Market.
Tips: Go early to beat the crowds, especially closer to CNY.
3. Jewel Changi Airport
Why Go: Jewel hosts a range of premium outlets and artisanal food brands.
What to Buy:
Exclusive CNY gift boxes from Tai Cheong Bakery.
Luxurious tea sets from TWG Tea to pair with festive snacks.
Specialty hampers from FairPrice Finest and international confectionery stores.
Tips: Look out for special CNY promotions at the airport.
4. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
FairPrice Finest, Cold Storage, and Sheng Siong are excellent for affordable festive essentials.
What to Buy:
Pre-packed yu sheng kits for your prosperity toss.
Ready-made nian gao (glutinous rice cakes).
Assorted mandarin oranges for gifting and decoration.
Tips: Check out in-store promotions and early-bird discounts.
5. Gourmet and Specialty Stores
Bengawan Solo: Famous for its premium kueh lapis (layer cakes) and pineapple tarts.
The Pine Garden: Known for their creative CNY bakes, such as orh nee (yam) pineapple tarts.
Emicakes: Perfect for unique durian-based treats.
Tips: Pre-order your goodies to avoid long queues.
6. Local Bakeries and Confectioneries
Neighborhood bakeries offer homemade-style snacks with a personal touch.
Recommended Bakeries:
Kele: Pineapple tarts in unique flavors like rose and matcha.
Gin Thye Cake Maker: Traditional Chinese pastries and CNY cakes.
Tips: These stores often offer bundle discounts for bulk purchases.
7. Luxury Hotels
Why Go: High-end hotels offer exquisite, artisanal CNY treats perfect for gifting.
Top Picks:
Raffles Hotel: Signature CNY hampers and goodies.
Shangri-La Singapore: Handmade nian gao and premium yu sheng platters.
Mandarin Oriental: Elegant mooncakes and cookies.
Tips: Place orders early for customizations and hampers.
8. Online Stores
Why Go: Convenience and access to a wide range of options.
Top Sites:
RedMart: Comprehensive selection of CNY snacks and groceries.
The Golden Duck: Gourmet snack bundles featuring salted egg fish skin and more.
Lazada and Shopee: Festive food hampers and bulk snack deals.
Tips: Check for delivery slots as demand surges during CNY.
9. Hawker Centres
Why Go: Affordable and authentic options for traditional festive food.
Notable Centres:
Old Airport Road Food Centre: Famous for traditional desserts and festive cakes.
Maxwell Food Centre: Great for homemade kueh and cookies.
Tips: Chat with vendors for recommendations and custom orders.
Pro Tips for Buying CNY Food
Shop Early: The best treats sell out quickly as CNY approaches.
Look for Promotions: Many stores offer discounts for bulk purchases or early orders.
Taste Before Buying: Many vendors provide samples at markets and bazaars.
Go for Quality: Pay attention to the freshness and quality of ingredients, especially for traditional items like bak kwa and pineapple tarts.
With these recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared to celebrate Chinese New Year with a bounty of delicious treats and festive foods. Happy shopping and 新年快乐 (Happy New Year)!
