15 places for the best claypot rice in Singapore

Claypot rice is one of those culinary masterpieces that demands dedication and precision. The age-old preparation method involves cooking raw rice over a charcoal flame within a claypot. By creating a sealed vessel that locks in all the flavours, the dish is infused with a tantalising smoky fragrance — the hallmark of a good claypot rice. 

The challenge lies in controlling the heat, which requires manual tilting the claypot at various angles. This technique creates the coveted layer of crispy rice, or 锅巴 (guo ba), that diners eagerly scrape from the pots. 

However, a minute too long on the stove can cause the brown, caramelised goodness to turn into acrid, burnt bits, which is why seeking out the best claypot rice can be quite a tricky task.  

The search for claypot rice masters — who have perfected the art with decades of experience on its back — is no easy feat and recreating that kind of magic at home is probably even tougher. We feel you, so we’ve compiled a list of 15 places for the best claypot rice in Singapore to savour this fine dish without any hassle — dig in!

1. Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice

Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre, 02-198/199, 335 Smith Street
Open: Tuesday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday (4.30pm to 10.30pm)

Why visit? Tucked away at the back of Chinatown’s bustling food centre is the renowned Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice, also known to some as “Three Sisters’ Claypot Rice”. 

This Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery boasts a rich heritage spanning four decades, making it a popular destination for claypot rice in Singapore. 

Staying true to its traditions, the stall prepares the claypot rice over a charcoal fire. Each serving is cooked upon order to ensure freshness, so be sure to anticipate a wait time of at least 30 minutes.

Price range: $ 

Crowd favourite: Among the three rice options available, the mixed rice (S$8 for one diner) stands out as a must-try. This dish comes generously adorned with tender chicken chunks, duck liver Chinese sausages, savoury salted fish, and wax meats. To elevate the taste, gently stir in the dark sauce for an added layer of richness. Wash it down with a side of lotus root pork rib soup (S$2.50), which is light, herbal and refreshing.

2. New Lucky Claypot Rice

Holland Drive Market and Food Centre, 02-19, 44 Holland Drive
Open: Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday (11am to 1pm, 5pm to 8pm)

Why visit? New Lucky Claypot Rice is a Michelin Bib Gourmand stall that has been dedicated to serving freshly cooked claypot rice since 1979. Initially located at Bukit Merah and Clementi, it has since found a home in Holland Drive Food Centre. 

The hallmark of its claypot rice is that it’s cooked from scratch over a charcoal fire, which imparts that unmistakable, smoky aroma. However, this commitment to authenticity translates into longer waiting times, which can stretch beyond an hour during peak periods. Despite this, the fact that these piping hot claypots of rice still draw massive queues attests to its quality, so we recommend pre-ordering by phone to savour your meal without delay.

Price range: $

Crowd favourites: The claypot wu wei rice (S$15 for two diners) is the stall’s signature dish and comes with a delightful blend of succulent chicken pieces, aromatic chinese sausages and the essential salted fish. For those seeking a pork-free option, the claypot chicken rice (S$15 for two) is available.

3. Geylang Claypot Rice

361, 363, 365 Beach Road
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 2.30pm, 5pm to 10pm)

Why visit? Hailing from the streets of Geylang Lorong 33, the humble Geylang Claypot Rice has since expanded to a full-fledged zi char restaurant nestled along Beach Road. 

A charming fusion of quirky old-school aesthetics with a modern twist, this eatery is well established as one of Singapore’s favourite claypot spots, with over 40 years of history and earning a Michelin Plate in 2016. 

It takes about half an hour to meticulously prepare the claypot rice over a charcoal flame. To make the most of your time, we recommend you order it before browsing the rest of the menu. 

Price range: $$

Crowd favourites: The classic chicken claypot rice (S$18.80 for two to three diners) includes a medley of ingredients like chicken pieces, two varieties of Chinese sausages — one lean and the other with liver — as well as salted fish pieces. Dining with a crowd? Order some of the popular appetisers like the crabmeat prawn roll (S$14.80) and sambal lala (S$18.80), which are great for sharing.

4. Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice

ABC Brickworks Market, 01-38, 6 Bukit Merah
Open: Friday to Monday (4pm to 9pm)

496 Jurong West Street 41
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 9pm)

Why visit? With a legacy spanning over 40 years, Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice is now helmed by the second-generation owner, Raymond Seah. He dreams of expanding his father’s humble business onto the global stage and presently has another stall in Jurong West, apart from the OG outlet at ABC Brickworks. 

While each of the outlets are managed by hand-picked apprentices, Raymond insists on personally making the secret homemade sauce and chicken broth that forms the backbone of each claypot rice, across both outlets.

Price range: $$

Crowd favourites True to its name, the famous claypot rice (S$15 for two diners) is the number one pick for regular patrons. For those with specific ingredients in mind, the menu offers options such as the salted fish with preserved meat claypot rice (S$15 for two) and the salted fish with chicken claypot rice (S$15 for two). 

To complement the hearty claypot rice, consider the watercress pork ribs soup (S$4) and oyster sauce vegetable (from S$5), both offering a light and refreshing contrast to round out your meal.

5. Le Chasseur

Pek Kio Market and Food Centre, 01-28, 41A Cambridge Road 
Open: Monday to Sunday (7am to 2pm)

Why visit? Despite its French name, Le Chasseur actually specialises in unique Chinese zi char dishes. The stall, which means “the hunter” in English, has its roots in Mauritius. Engineer-turned-chef Andy Lim first opened an eatery with the name nearly 20 years ago. 

Today, he runs the restaurant in the Eunos industrial area under the same name. The rice here is cooked with raw basmati rice over charcoal, which infuses the dish with the distinct smoky fragrance essential to claypot rice, while retaining the lighter and fluffy texture of the grains.

Price range: $$

Crowd favourites: There are over 50 dishes to pick from here, but the must-try is the claypot chicken rice (S$13 for small), which we advise to order in advance while you explore the rest of the menu. 

The you tiao sotong (S$7, squid fritters), a popular sharing plate, is a delightful accompaniment. To conclude your meal, indulge in the stall’s standout dessert offering — homemade tau suan with you tiao (S$3.20, split mung bean dessert).

6. Broadway Claypot Rice

408 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10
Open: Monday to Sunday (9am to 9.30pm)

Why visit? Nestled under a HDB in Ang Mo Kio, Broadway Claypot Rice is a neighbourhood treasure that has been delighting tastebuds with its traditional claypot rice for over 40 years, all while keeping prices reasonable. 

Although it offers other local favourites such as bak kut teh (S$7), it’s the smoky claypot rice that holds a special place in the hearts of residents. It comes piping hot with the dark sauce already mixed into the rice and often with burnt bits, perfect for those who love a little extra char. 

Price range: $

Crowd favourites: The claypot chicken rice and claypot beef rice (S$8 for one diner) both come with that essential charred fragrance and are highly recommended. Pair your choice of claypot rice with a serving of its herbal bak kut teh (S$7) and a side of kang kong (S$6.50) for a balanced meal. 

Should you find yourself still craving more, the handmade crispy curry puffs (S$1.80), which have a flaky exterior and a delectably soft interior, are worth the indulgence.

7. Fei Kee Claypot Chicken Rice

Luk Lu Eating House, 341 Beach Road
Open: Monday to Friday (11am to 7pm)

Why visit? The unassuming Fei Kee Claypot Chicken Rice is situated within a coffee shop and offers the classic dish at budget-friendly prices. Though they may display other dishes on its menu, only its signature item — the claypot chicken rice — is usually available.

This dish is cooked traditionally from scratch, cooking rice grains in a claypot until a nice, caramelised crisp layer forms at the base. It’s worth noting that there’s typically a wait time of at least 15 minutes, so call ahead to ensure a prompt meal.

Price range: $ 

Crowd favourites: The claypot chicken rice (S$7 for one diner) doesn’t skimp on ingredients — it features generous amounts of boneless chicken thigh meat and Chinese sausage, complemented by the rich flavours of dried shrimps and salted fish. The cabbage served on top provides a delightful crunch to the dish. 

For those seeking a truly indulgent meal, enhance it with more salted fish for an additional S$2.

8. Sembawang Traditional Claypot Rice

4 Jalan Tampang
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Why visit? Sembawang Traditional Claypot Rice is a famous north-side spot with a rich 40-year history and known for its substantial zi char portions at affordable prices. It’s the perfect choice for larger gatherings, as it offers an extensive selection of sharing plates — this is in addition to its signature claypot rice, which leans toward the softer side but is still extremely fragrant.

Price range: $$

Crowd favourites: Try the mei cai kou rou claypot rice (S$18.80, pork belly with preserved vegetables), which comes with thick slices of melt-in-the-mouth pork belly drenched in a glistening dark glaze and nestled atop a smoky bed of crispy rice. Or keep it classy with the traditional claypot rice (S$12.80), which comes with the usual ingredients that make this dish a timeless favourite. Whichever you get, they’re guaranteed to deliver that smoky fragrance that is integral to claypot rice. 

Not in the mood for it? The san lao fish bee hoon (S$7.80, stir-fried fish with rice vermicelli) is also a worthy option.

9. Cantonese Claypot Rice (Guang Dong Sha Bao Fan)

Beo Crescent Market & Food Centre, 01-66, Block 38A Beo Crescent
Open:  Friday to Wednesday (12pm to 8pm)

Why visit? Situated in a cosy food centre at the heart of Tiong Bahru, you’ll find this hidden gem, Cantonese Claypot Rice, which draws a short but consistent line for its single-serve claypot rice. While it may not have the same recognition as its more established counterparts, this eatery offers a diverse range of claypot rice options to satisfy every palate. 

Have your pick of ingredients to accompany your claypot rice here, including chicken, sliced fish, pork ribs, or an indulgent combination of them all.

Price range: $

Crowd favourites: The claypot sausage bacon pork ribs rice (S$5.80) is prepared fresh and packed to the brim with ingredients, promising a filling meal. To round off your meal and add a touch of nourishment, add on the wholesome cordyceps white fungus chicken soup (S$5).

10. Yew Chuan Claypot Rice

Golden Mile Food Centre, 01-73, 505 Beach Road 
Open: Tuesday to Wednesday, Friday to Sunday (12pm to 8pm)

Why visit? The authentic Yew Chuan Claypot Rice is a celebrated name among the many renowned hawker stalls in this food centre. The Pan family started this venture over 20 years ago after the chef-owner perfected the craft at Geylang Claypot Rice. 

Pan is a stickler for tradition, preparing the rice in claypots over wood-fire stoves upon each order. The promise of a well-crafted flavourful claypot rice makes it well worth the 20-minute wait.

Price range: $ 

Crowd favourites: Here, the only decision you need to make is how much claypot rice you can eat. The claypot chicken rice (S$14 for two diners) comes with perfectly marinated chicken chunks, two types of Chinese sausage and leafy greens that help cut through the greasiness of the dish. 

Have it with a side of oyster sauce vegetables (from S$5), which comes with crispy fried shallots on top.

11. He Ping Claypot Rice

148 Sims Avenue 
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 11pm)

Why visit? Located in the heart of the food haven Geylang district is Chinese restaurant He Ping Claypot Rice with a storied history of over 40 years. Its menu features an array of local zi char favourites, but most flock to this spot for the claypot rice. 

Traditional methods of cooking claypot rice are used here, which means a minimum waiting time of 30 minutes, but you have the option to call ahead if you want to skip the wait. 

Price range: $$

Crowd favourites: The He Ping claypot chicken rice (S$10 for one diner) here comes with the customary Chinese sausages, fish slices and tender chicken pieces, but what sets it apart is the addition of rich and savoury salted egg yolks. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, drop a dollop or two of some of its sambal and green chilli to take the dish up a notch. 

Other noteworthy dishes include the fatty signature pork with leek (S$15), and the signature deep fried seafood beancurd (S$12), which is delightfully soft with a crisp outer layer.

12. Ah Ching Claypot Delights

The Canteen @ Midview City, Stall 4, 18 Sin Ming Lane
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 10pm)

Why visit? This little claypot spot Ah Ching Claypot Delights nestled within the Sin Ming neighbourhood was opened by the former head chef of Geylang Claypot Rice, Ah Ching. 

Here, Ah Ching uses aged rice that gives the dish an even more intense aroma and salted Spanish mackerel fish, which is not only more expensive but yields a higher potency than the usual salted snapper. The result? An excellent, hearty bowl that would thoroughly satisfy any craving.

Price range: $ 

Crowd favourites: The charcoal claypot rice (S$8 for one diner) is the stall’s signature offerings and comes richly infused with the umami goodness of fried pork lard. If you’re looking for something different, try the claypot ginger duck rice (S$8 for one), which brings aromatic crisp notes to the tender gamey meat. 

If you’re game for more, the chicken in sesame oil (S$8) is perfectly succulent and flavourful, while the handmade prawn roll (S$5) is freshly fried and crisp, both of which are highly recommended if you’re dining with others.

13. 132 Claypot Rice

Old Airport Road Food Centre, 01-132, 51 Old Airport Road
Open: Wednesday to Monday (12.30pm to 9.30pm)

Why visit? Old Airport Road Food Centre is home to many famous hawker names and this inconspicuously named establishment, 132 Claypot Rice, is one of them. It attracts a queue of eager patrons throughout the day for its made-to-order claypot rice, which means a wait time of at least 15 minutes. It’s one of the more affordable places to get this local favourite, but it is still expertly crafted and equally delicious.

Price range: $ 

Crowd favourites: The claypot chicken rice (S$6 for one diner) offers that sought-after crispy layer at the bottom of the pot, with ample chicken chunks and savoury-sweet chinese sausages within and refreshing green vegetables on top. 

Counter the greasy goodness with the bittergourd pork ribs soup (S$4.50), which is light, refreshing and good for your soul.

14. NanXing Claypot Rice

Circuit Road Hawker Centre, 01-11, 79 Circuit Road
Open: Thursday to Tuesday (12pm to 7pm)

Why visit? A strong contender for the title of the best claypot rice in Singapore can be found at this gem, NanXing Claypot Rice, tucked away in Circuit Road food centre. It’s known for its consistently good claypots of rice, which are filled with a distinct charred flavour and flavourful ingredients. What also sets NanXing’s dishes apart is also its chilli sauce, which is said to pack a punch and elevate the dish to another level.

Price range: $

Crowd favourites: While there are a number of options to choose from, the BBQ pork special sauce (S$7 for one diner) is full of that coveted smoky fragrance and rich flavours. Alternatively, stick with its signature claypot chicken rice (S$7 for one diner) for a guaranteed satisfying meal.

15. Tai Liok Claypot Chicken Rice

Alexandra Village Food Centre, 01-68, 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1
Open: Wednesday to Sunday (5pm to 10pm)

Why visit? Previously located at Margaret Drive Food Centre, Tai Liok Claypot Chicken Rice has cultivated a dedicated following of regular patrons who have continued to support it at its new location. It’s well-loved for the generous portions of claypot rice, with a distinctively charred flavour profile. In fact, this enticing aroma is so potent that it can be detected from afar, drawing in both loyal fans and curious newcomers.

Price range: $ 

Crowd favourites The claypot chicken rice (S$15 for two diners) arrives sizzling hot and brimming with succulent chicken chunks and two types of Chinese sausages, promising a hearty blend of flavours and texture. It is recommended to enhance the dish with additional ingredients, which start at S$5. 

As a complement, try the peanut and chicken feet soup (S$3.50), which is boiled for hours and reduced to a flavour bomb and guaranteed to complete the meal.

NanXing Claypot Rice is on the GrabFood delivery service and offers free delivery (up to S$3 off) with GrabUnlimited. 

Do explore the new GrabFood Dine-in service for awesome deals. 


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