5 Thai eateries in Singapore’s north that serve mouthwatering fare
This is the third instalment of a five-part series on authentic Thai eateries in Singapore. Here, we check out places in Singapore’s north.
While northern Singapore might feel like a faraway location (to those living elsewhere on the island), it’s worth visiting its community of authentic Thai eateries.
So there’s no need to book a flight to Thailand just yet. Take a jaunt to Singapore’s north and discover these five no-frills Thai eateries that serve more than just a reliable bowl of spicy tom yum soup.
1. Raku Inu Bistro and Bar
7 Ang Mo Kio Street 66, 01-17
Nearest MRT station: Toa Payoh
Open: Tuesday to Friday (11.30am to 10.30pm), Saturday and Sunday (12pm to 12am)
Opened by the folks behind Raku Inu — a pet store in Yio Chu Kang — Raku Inu Bistro and Bar is not like any other Thai eatery. It’s a pet-friendly restaurant that stands out among its neighbouring cafes that dole out Western fare.
A master Thai chef with years of experience helms this quaint bistro and bar. Serving Thai-style zi char, there are plenty of dishes to choose from.
The moo ping (pork skewers) is a tender and juicy affair that has won over the hearts of many. For mains, indulge in an array of drool-worthy dishes such as basil pork, pad thai (from S$7) and claypot tanghoon with prawn (from S$10.50).
While its dining area isn’t very spacious, the friendly staff and occasional sightings of patrons’ pets make the trip worthwhile.
What to order: Moo ping (S$7.50 for three pieces), basil pork (from S$10)
2. Xin Yang Thai Food
806 Woodlands Street 81
Nearest MRT station: Woodlands
Open: Monday to Wednesday, and Friday to Sunday (11.30am to 3pm, 5pm to 8pm)
Xin Yang Thai Food is a hidden gem located in a coffee shop at an HDB block. This stall has been dishing out comforting Thai-Chinese cuisine since 2001 and is run by a couple.
Its wallet-friendly prices and tasty grub have kept fans loyal despite relocating many times. Recently, the couple’s son joined his parents to continue the family’s business.
The Thai fried rice gained popularity for its strong wok hei (smoky aroma) and fresh ingredients. The fried rice, accompanied by a fiery homemade chilli, keeps visitors returning for more.
Elsewhere on the menu, the classic tom yum soup (S$6.50) has an aromatic broth with a spicy and sour kick. For updates on the business and changes in its operating hours, visit its Facebook page, which is updated frequently.
What to order: Thai fried rice (S$5.50), mango salad (S$4.50)
3. Thailand Street Food
Junction 9, 01-03, 18 Yishun Avenue 9
Nearest MRT station: Khatib
Open: Monday to Sunday (11am to 3pm, 5pm to 10pm)
Thailand Street Food has been serving delectable Thai fare since 2018. It used to be a food stall in Tai Seng before moving to the north and expanding the business as a restaurant.
It serves a laundry list of Thai dishes from pandan chicken to tom yum soup (from S$7) to pineapple fried rice (from S$6), and more. Our picks are the fried egg salad and pad thai.
If you’re heading there to satisfy your Thai food cravings, note that it accepts only cash or Nets as payment options.
What to order: Fried egg salad (S$9), pandan chicken (S$8), pad thai (from S$6)
4. PrachinBuri Thai Kitchen
748 Yishun Street 72, 01-214
Nearest MRT station: Yishun
Open: Monday to Sunday (11.30am to 10pm)
PrachinBuri Thai Kitchen comes highly recommended by regular patrons. Its signature dish is leng saap (S$10) — Thai-style bak kut teh. The pork ribs are meaty and tender, served in a spicy and tangy broth. This is one dish you should order if you enjoy generous amounts of garlic in your food.
Another must-try is the Thai mango salad (S$6.30). Be sure to check with the staff if it’s available, as it runs out awfully quickly.
What to order: Leng saap (S$10), tom yum seafood soup (S$7)
5. BKK Bistro and Bar
Orto, 01-09A, 81 Lorong Chencharu
Nearest MRT station: Khatib
Open: Monday to Sunday (5pm to 2am)
BKK Bistro and Bar is a supper haunt for residents living in northern Singapore. This al fresco Thai eatery not only overlooks a fishing pond, but it’s also outfitted with fairy lights for a romantic setting, where you can dine beneath the stars.
The star of the show is the boat noodles (80 cents). You can choose between two soup bases (red tom yum or herbal soup) and two noodle options (glass noodles or rice noodles).
If you’re looking for something to share, its tom yum seafood hotpot (S$26.80) is delightfully tangy and spicy, and chock-full of fresh seafood such as slipper lobster, prawns, squid, and mussels.
What to order: Boat noodles (80 cents), Mama noodle seafood salad (S$9.80)
Raku Inu Bistro and Bar, Thailand Street Food, PrachinBuri Thai Kitchen, and BKK Bistro and Bar are on the GrabFood delivery service. You can also book a ride to these places.
