8 places for rice dumplings in Singapore to check out in 2024
Wondering where to get the best rice dumplings in Singapore for 2024? This Dragon Boat Festival (June 10), many brands have upped their rice dumpling (or zongzi) game — from traditional, tried-and-true flavours, to new, decadent ones such as a full-golden dumpling — there’s a dumpling for everybody.
There’s just two weeks left until d-day, so to save you time, we’ve done the legwork and have shortlisted our top eight of the most interesting rice dumplings in Singapore this year. Order them quickly — we can’t promise they won’t go out of stock soon!
1. Joo Chiat Kim Choo
77 Circuit Road, 01-450
Open: Monday to Sunday (8am to 8pm)
Rice dumpling specialist Joo Chiat Kim Choo takes us down the memory lane for this year’s Dragon Boat Festival — it’s transformed its flagship store on Circuit Road into an old-school arcade, complete with classic games such as Happy Family, Snap and Old Maid.
In line with this theme, it offers a variety of beautifully packaged, customised gift sets that’ll spoil you for choice: For those looking to impress, the Emperor’s Heirloom gift set (S$168) features a handsomely designed box that unfolds like a beautiful Chinese fan, as well as a rose-gold fork to enjoy the delicacies with. Those who prefer to try a little of everything should get the Petite Treasures gift set (from S$31.80), which leaves more room for sampling more flavours.
When it comes to dumpling flavours, Joo Chiat Kim Choo dumplings are renowned for their rich, traditional flavours, delivering a taste that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. The emperor’s rice dumpling (S$18.80) is a favourite, boasting a luxurious array of premium ingredients and 22 spices for a savour-packed bite, while the pulut hitam nyonya rice dumpling (S$8.80) delivers a unique take on the well-loved nyonya dumpling. There is also a new hae bee hiam option (S$7.80) for sambal lovers to indulge.
Purchase the dumplings or gift sets in-store or order online at Joo Chiat Kim Choo’s website.
2. Eastern Rice Dumpling
Multiple outlets islandwide
Open: Operating hours vary across stores
Backed by four decades of history, the third-generation-owned Eastern Rice Dumpling continues to offer customers some of the best, homeliest rice dumplings in Singapore at affordable prices.
Don’t miss out on its signature nyonya dumpling (from S$4.50), a local favourite. The addition of spices not commonly found in nyonya dumplings, such as spicy dried shrimp, adds a depth and a unique, spicy twist.
If you know any vegetarians who love their rice dumplings, Eastern Rice Dumpling also has a vegetarian nyonya rice dumpling (from S$4.20) which comes with minced bean fried with coriander powder and mushroom stock, and promises just as much flavour as a regular meat version.
Those looking for traditional flavours should definitely also get its Hokkien rice dumpling (from S$4.50). Packed with generous portions of ingredients and fresh runny yolks, this dumpling is highly praised by many of its regulars, and a festival favourite.
Last-minute rice dumpling shoppers, take heart: Its main shop on Balestier Road is open 24-hours daily, making it the perfect spot to satisfy your dumpling cravings at any time of the day.
Head to its outlets islandwide for purchase or order online (at least 2 days in advance).
3. Peony Jade
Amara Singapore Level 2, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 9pm)
Looking for a touch of sophistication and luxury? Check out Peony Jade’s elegantly crafted line-up. You can receive a stylish gift box with a bamboo wicker handle and scarf, which comes with orders worth S$119.90.
It isn’t just the boxes that ooze sophistication; it’s new flavours do, too. There’s the truffle duck zhang (S$16.80), with truffle-roasted duck meat and the premium Emperor XO zhang (S$16.80), which features cured oyster, salted egg yolk, shiitake mushrooms and chestnuts alongside cognac-spiced pork.
Peony Jade’s perennial fan favourites also make a return this year. There’s the blue-hued signature traditional nyonya blue pea bak zhang (S$13.80), which features minced pork nestled within glutinous rice infused with blue pea flowers. Its appearance may be eye catching, but its spiced meat filling is what truly makes it irresistible.
Durian enthusiasts should definitely add to cart its chilled blue pea nyonya premium pure mao shan wang durian pengat dessert zhang (S$23.80), a decadent bitter-sweet treat that will satisfy any durian lover, stat.
Place your order for the dumplings online or purchase them from the restaurant itself at Amara Singapore.
4. Shangri-La Singapore
Shang Palace, Lobby Level, Tower Wing, 22 Orange Grove Road
Open: Monday to Friday (12pm to 2.30pm, 6pm to 10pm), Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays (11am to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm)
This year, Shangri-La Singapore offers a mix of traditional and modern influences when it comes to its rice dumplings.
Alongside its best-selling signatures, such as its Shang Palace signature barbecued pork rice dumpling with Yunnan ham and conpoy (S$31.90) and truffle pork rice dumpling with salted egg (S$23.90), Shangri-La Singapore is introducing intriguing new flavours that are sure to impress.
Its fish maw pork knuckle dumpling (S$42.90) features expertly marinated fish maw and tender slow-cooked pork knuckle, each infused with secret spices and herbs. Meanwhile, the sweetened purple rice dumpling with custard (S$22.90) provides a delightful, dessert-like twist. Slice into it to reveal its delicious secret: A gooey purple sweet potato custard centre encased in chewy mochi dough and vibrant black and white glutinous rice.
Available for purchase online until June 10. Orders can also be placed via phone at +65 6213 4511 or by email.
5. Man Fu Yuan
Intercontinental Singapore, Level 2, 80 Middle Road
Open: Monday to Friday (12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm), Saturdays and Sundays (11.30am to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm)
Situated within Intercontinental Singapore, Man Fu Yuan is a Michelin-recommended fine dining restaurant specialising in Cantonese cuisine, and is also a go-to for rice dumplings that cater to both traditional tastes and modern preferences.
This year, Man Fu Yuan has a nyonya-style rice dumpling with plant-based meat, sweetened winter melon, and mushroom (S$23.90), an alternative to the popular meaty counterpart that caters to vegetarians without compromising on flavour. For those with a sweet tooth, there’s its glutinous rice dumpling with red bean, honey date and red date (S$20.90) which offers a delightful fusion of textures and flavours.
Man Fu Yuan’s dumplings make for great gifts with its various exquisite gift sets available (from S$128.80), each paired with a complementary premium tea blend or champagne. Whether you are a traditionalist or an adventurist, Man Fu Yuan’s dumplings promise a memorable culinary experience.
The dumplings are available for purchase online until June 10, or at the restaurant itself.
6. Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 7pm for both pickup and delivery)
This year, Goodwood Park Hotel introduces two exciting new rice dumplings with a local twist, blending beloved Singaporean classics with its well-loved rice dumplings, in a move that is sure to appeal to all ages.
The black pepper crab rice dumpling (from S$32 for a set of 2 pieces) pays homage to everyone’s favourite local dish and features succulent crab meat enveloped in tantalising black pepper.
The pork belly with preserved vegetables (mui choy) rice dumpling (from S$20 for a set of 2 pieces) is a Hakka take on the rice dumpling, complete with juicy braised pork belly and preserved mustard greens.
For those with smaller appetite and a sweeter tooth, the mini kee zhang with D24 durian dip (from S$14 for a set of 3 pieces) is perfect for sharing and sampling. Can’t decide? The bundle set, priced from S$56 for 7 pieces (two pieces each of the new flavours and three pieces of mini kee zhang), is ideal for the whole family’s indulgence.
All items are exclusively available for dine-in and takeaway at Min Jiang and Min Jiang at Dempsey until June 10. You can also order The Deli online shop by up till June 7.
7. Swensens
Multiple stores islandwide
Open: Operating hours vary across stores
Just when you think rice dumplings in Singapore can’t get any more innovative, Swensens brings back its unique collection of “r-ice cream” masterprices, which are literally ice cream rice dumplings.
The pulut hitam rice dumpling ice cream (from S$9.80) makes a highly-anticipated comeback this year, with purple rice ice cream and a salted egg chocolate bon bon centre.
Equally tempting are its two new flavours: The pandan coco rice dumpling ice cream (from S$9.80), wildly fragrant with its combination of pandan and coconut flavours, and the ultimate show-stopper, the jumbo-sized kueh salat rice dumpling ice cream (S$63.80), featuring two luscious layers of coconut ice cream encased in a lavish golden chocolate shell.
The decadent jumbo dessert has not just one but three salted egg bon bons nestled within. If you’re looking for a dumpling with a difference, then Swensen’s “r-ice cream” dumplings are perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones, especially kids!
All items are available for dine-in and takeaway at all Swensen’s and Earle Swensen’s outlets, while stocks last. You can shop online, and opt for takeaway or delivery.
8. Crystal Jade
Multiple outlets islandwide.
Open: Operating hours vary across stores
This season, Crystal Jade’s delectable selection includes the new spicy Szechuan pepper chicken with pearl peanut rice dumpling (S$7.80), a bold choice for anyone who enjoys a kick of heat, and the petite red bean paste with tangerine peel dumpling (S$8.80 for 3 pieces), which perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of citrus.
Crystal Jade also offers a trio gifting bundle (S$24.80) which includes its two new flavours and its classic five spice marinated pork rice dumpling (S$9.80 for single purchase) making it the ideal package for gifting and even for sharing — everyone gets a bit of everything!
You can order it on Crystal Jade’s website and enjoy S$5 with a minimum spending of S$60 as long as you purchase before June 5.
Crave some iced goodness to beat the heat? Read our bingsu recommendations for the best icy treats on a hot day. Alternatively, check out the newest openings in Singapore for the newest and hottest spots in town.
Joo Chiat Kim Choo, Eastern Rice Dumpling, Swensens, and Crystal Jade are on the GrabFood Delivery Service and offer free delivery (up to S$3 off) with GrabUnlimited.
Do explore the GrabFood Dine-in service for awesome deals.
You can also book a ride to pick up your rice dumplings in Singapore.
Chang Qi
Author
Chang is in an everlasting relationship with food and tries to have fun every now and then.
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