A Culinary Voyage: The Charm of Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat

A Toast to Tradition: Savoring the Teochew Legacy at Nan Hwa Chong

Nestled at the bustling corner of North Bridge Road, Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat Corner is more than just a dining spot; it's a journey back in time. Renowned for its authentic Teochew-style fish head steamboat since 1927, this culinary gem has warmed the hearts and bellies of many with its rich, flavorful broth and meticulously selected ingredients​​.

Whether it's the comforting embrace of their steamboat on a rainy day or the lively chatter that fills the air as diners huddle over the simmering pot, Nan Hwa Chong is the epitome of communal dining. Offering a variety of fish options like pomfret and red grouper, the restaurant takes pride in its broth—a secret recipe that has been refined over the years, originally designed to mask the muddier taste of certain fish with a richer, more palatable flavor​​​​.

But the magic doesn't stop at the steamboat. The venue dazzles with its array of tze char dishes, from the umami-packed signature pork belly, marinated overnight and fried to perfection, to the homemade tofu that's a crunchy delight on the outside and soft on the inside. Not to forget the salted egg pork ribs that bring a creamy, savory explosion with every bite​​.

Beyond the food, it's the spirit of resilience and dedication that defines Nan Hwa Chong. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the restaurant retained all of its staff, showcasing a commitment to its team and community seldom seen​​.

So, if you find yourself yearning for a taste of tradition and warmth, head over to Nan Hwa Chong. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience woven with history, flavor, and heart.

Operating hours: Daily from 11:00 am to 12:00 am​​.

Address: 812/814/816 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198779

For a night of delicious tradition and communal joy, Nan Hwa Chong Fish Head Steamboat Corner awaits.

^{Whampoa Keng Fish Head Steamboat @ Balestier
556 Balestier Rd, Singapore 329872
https://maps.app.goo.gl/tta6iNLFZmnLHWgg6
Open daily, 11 am–11:30 pm
Photos: Alfred Samuel Mariyaras • Whampoa Keng Fish Head Steamboat @ Balestier •}

Tian Wai Tian: A Serangoon Road Icon for Fish Head Steamboat Lovers

A Sizzling Heritage of Flavor

Nestled along the bustling Serangoon Road, Tian Wai Tian Fish Head Steamboat presents a tantalizing journey back to the roots of Teochew cuisine, offering a cozy street-side dining experience that captivates both heart and soul. This culinary gem, flourishing since the early 1980s, is a testament to the timeless appeal of traditional charcoal-heated fish head steamboats​​.

Why Tian Wai Tian Stands Out

What sets Tian Wai Tian apart is not just its scrumptious offerings but the very essence of its preparation - using traditional charcoal aluminium pots that impart a unique, smoky flavor to the broth. The restaurant's ambiance, with tables lining the five-foot way, enhances the authenticity of this dining adventure​​.

The establishment's pride lies in its Fish Head Steamboat, featuring options like Pomfret, Red Grouper, and Bighead Carp, with the Fried Red Grouper being a personal favorite for many. These steamboats come alive with a rich broth made from an array of ingredients, including chicken feet, anchovies, yam, sour plum, and ginger, creating an umami-rich soup base that's both inviting and comforting​​.

Beyond Steamboats: A Culinary Delight

Tian Wai Tian also dazzles with its zi char menu, offering favorites like Prawn Paste Chicken and Tofu Prawn drenched in savory chilli crab sauce. These dishes not only complement the steamboat but also stand as must-try items for an all-rounded feast​​​​.

Navigating the Bustle

Given its popularity, the restaurant is often packed, with queues starting as early as an hour before opening. It operates on a first-come-first-serve basis, and during peak times, patience is required both for seating and ordering. Cash is king here, so be prepared for a traditional transaction experience​​.

Hours of Operation

Tian Wai Tian welcomes diners every day from 5:00 pm to 10:30 pm, promising an evening filled with delightful dishes and heartwarming broth​​.

A Mixed Reception

While many laud Tian Wai Tian for its delicious offerings and great value, some visitors have shared experiences of challenges, particularly with seating and order placements. Yet, fans of the place often return, drawn by the irresistible combination of tasty dishes and the nostalgic ambiance​​.

Embark on a Culinary Journey

Tian Wai Tian Fish Head Steamboat at 1382/1383 Serangoon Road offers not just a meal but an experience rich in tradition and taste. It stands as a beacon for those seeking the warm embrace of a steamboat meal, amidst the hustle and bustle of Singapore's ever-vibrant food scene. Whether you're a long-time fan or a curious first-timer, Tian Wai Tian promises a dining experience that's worth the wait.

^{Tian Wai Tian Fish Head Steamboat(天外天鱼头炉）Serangoon Road
1383 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 328254
https://maps.app.goo.gl/6nA5VpSGLJxdw5Aw8
Open daily, 4:30–10:45 pm
Photos: S K Yeo • Mr Food Uncle • Novi Chia • Engsheng Teo}

Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan: A Fish Steamboat Delight at Whampoa Market

Where Tradition Meets Taste

Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan is not just a hawker stall; it's a sanctuary for those who cherish the warmth and depth of traditional fish steamboat. Nestled in the heart of Whampoa Market, this establishment shifts its culinary prowess from selling mouthwatering minced meat noodles by day to serving a steamboat feast by night​​​​.

A Symphony of Flavors

Imagine a pot brimming with fresh fish slices, yam, seaweed, and cabbage, simmered in a soup that’s been enhanced with ginger and dried plaice (ti po) for that extra punch. The use of charcoal to heat the steamboat adds a smoky nuance to the broth, making every sip a comforting embrace​​.

What to Expect

Visitors rave about the generous portions of fish meat and the soup's rich and savory taste. The option to choose between fish head or fish meat allows for a tailored dining experience. Accompaniments like preserved vegetables and braised meat add layers to the meal, making it a rounded, fulfilling experience​​​​.

Planning Your Visit

The stall’s popularity means that waiting times can extend to an hour or more, especially if you arrive during peak dinner times. Early birds who get there before 6pm may find shorter queues and a better chance to enjoy the steamboat without the wait. Note that the stall opens for dinner and is a sought-after spot for steamboat enthusiasts looking for a meal that feels both homemade and luxurious​​.

A Must-Visit for Steamboat Aficionados

Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of fish steamboat, offering a dining experience that's deeply rooted in tradition and flavor. Whether it's the allure of the charcoal-fired pot or the rich, umami-packed broth, a visit to this stall at Whampoa Market promises a memorable meal that many return for time and time again​​​​​​​​.

Location and Hours

• Address: Block 91 Whampoa Drive, Whampoa Market, Singapore 320091
• Opening Hours: 5pm-9:30pm, Closed on Tuesdays​​.

For a dive into the heart of Singapore's steamboat culture, Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan awaits with open arms and steaming pots, ready to convert any diner into a lifelong fan.

^{Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan (Fish Steamboat) 新恆豐粿条摊
91 Whampoa Dr, #01-14/15, Singapore 320091
https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DyuKUNA4j6jwno68
Open, 4–10 pm (closed on Sunday, Tuesday)
Photos: Jack • Jayon See • Hermann Tai • Jinkun Marco • Flo Yeow}

Savoring Tradition: The Charm of Tan Xiang Charcoal Fish Head Steamboat

In the heart of Kallang's industrial landscape, a culinary gem has emerged, drawing in both locals and tourists to its inviting warmth. Tan Xiang Charcoal Fish Head Steamboat, a venture by Mediacorp celebrity Ben Yeo alongside Chef Cao Yong, offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane through its signature charcoal-fired fish head steamboat​​.

A Luxurious Blast from the Past

For Ben Yeo, this steamboat is more than just a dish; it's a cherished memory of Chinese New Year feasts from his childhood. Partnering with his cousin and Chef Cao Yong, they aimed to recreate these home-cooked comforts that many hold dear. Their specialty lies in the charcoal fish head steamboat, presented in a vintage copper pot that sits over a charcoal fire, infusing the broth with a distinctive, smoky depth​​.

The Broth that Binds

What sets Tan Xiang apart is its broth - a robust concoction brewed with over ten ingredients, offering a savory-sweetness enriched by the smokiness of charcoal. Patrons have the luxury of choosing between the gelatinous giant grouper and the tender red grouper, alongside an array of add-ons like Japanese scallops and Iberico pork belly​​​​.

Beyond Steamboat: A Zi-Char Fiesta

But the allure doesn't end with the steamboat. The menu extends to a diverse range of zi-char dishes, from the indulgent Shrimp Balls with Truffle Sauce to the crispy Charcoal Yam Ring, and not forgetting the addictive Fermented Pork Belly, marinated in 'nam yee'​​.

Plan Your Visit

Located at 5 Kallang Place, Singapore 339152, Tan Xiang Charcoal Fish Head Steamboat Restaurant operates from 6 pm to 11 pm, with Mondays off (open if it falls on a holiday). Given its popularity, especially during peak hours, it's wise to head down early or make a reservation via text at 8847 3776 to avoid the wait​​​​.

Dining at Tan Xiang is not just about the food; it's an experience. The warmth of the broth, the crackle of the charcoal, and the company of loved ones around a steaming pot make for an unforgettable meal. Whether you're seeking comfort on a rainy day or looking to relive cherished memories, Tan Xiang Charcoal Fish Head Steamboat awaits.

^{炭香 Charcoal Fish Head Steamboat
5 Kallang Pl, Singapore 339152
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3RbKAUUqoUBnBEkdA
Open daily, 12–10:30 pm
Photos: Chris • Yian Nee • Hermann Tai • Lin Guangming • David Wee}

Nan Hua Chang Seafood Restaurant: A Culinary Gem in Lavender

Nestled in Lavender, Nan Hua Chang Seafood Restaurant emerges as a beloved destination for those craving authentic Chinese seafood and zi char dishes, alongside its famed fish head steamboat. This eatery presents a harmonious blend of traditional flavors, earning its reputation not only for the variety but also for the nostalgia it evokes with its dishes.

Signature Steamboat and More

The restaurant's highlight, the fish head steamboat, is a must-try, celebrated for its rich and flavorful broth. Diners have praised the steamboat for its reasonable price and the generous portions of fish and vegetables, all simmering in a charcoal-heated pot that adds an irresistible depth to the broth​​.

A Diverse Menu to Explore

Beyond the steamboat, Nan Hua Chang offers an extensive zi char menu that includes crowd-pleasers like the Pork Belly and Prawn Paste Chicken. These dishes have been noted for their fresh preparation and satisfying portions, contributing to a dining experience that feels both indulgent and homely​​.

Comfortable Ambiance and Friendly Service

Visitors to Nan Hua Chang can expect a comfortable and clean environment, with service that adds to the dining experience. Whether you're there for a family dinner or a casual meal with friends, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff ensure a pleasant visit every time​​.

Planning Your Visit

Located at 462 Crawford Lane, the restaurant operates into the late hours, making it a convenient spot for late-night cravings or dinner gatherings. With its menu that spans a variety of Chinese and seafood dishes, Nan Hua Chang Seafood Restaurant stands out as a versatile eatery capable of satisfying a wide range of tastes​​.

Whether you're a fan of traditional Chinese steamboats or in search of a new zi char spot, Nan Hua Chang Seafood Restaurant in Lavender is worth exploring. Its combination of flavorful dishes, welcoming ambiance, and a broad selection of menu items promises a delightful dining experience that resonates with the warmth of home-cooked meals.

For more information or to plan your visit, you might want to check out their reviews on Burpple and Tripadvisor for a glimpse into the experiences of others who've dined there​​​​.

^{Nan Hua Chang Seafood Restaurant
462 Crawford Ln, #01-69/71, Singapore 190462
https://maps.app.goo.gl/hXKbzKaJfdM7Jyyv5
Open daily, 11:30 am–1 am
Photos: Jade Tay • Partha Gupta • Lai Elvis Lai • Gra Cious S T}