Rebecca Caughey in Singapore
Rebecca (Becs) Caughey spent 15 years in the music industry as a band manager and publicist, spending over a decade managing top Kiwi artists Ladi6 and Shapeshifter. After having her second child, she changed careers and co-founded Cook & Nelson with her husband Nick, marketing and distributing innovative food and beverage brands from across the globe, including Seedlip, McClure’s Pickles, and Tony’s Chocolonely. Becs is also one of the co-founders of Poptimist, which created Good Sh*t Soda—the world’s first pre + probiotic soda, made right here in New Zealand.
1. What’s your ultimate foodie destination, and why does the food there blow your mind? (Is it the flavours, the vibe, or something completely unexpected?)
Singapore’s food scene is a culinary paradise where diverse cultures converge to create something truly special. The fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan cuisines means that every meal is a flavour-packed journey through different traditions. Whether you’re indulging in spicy laksa or savouring a plate of Hainanese chicken rice, each dish offers a bold, authentic taste of Singapore’s rich culinary heritage.
What sets Singapore apart is its hawker culture. These bustling food centres offer some of the world’s best street food at incredibly affordable prices, with Michelin-starred stalls serving world-class meals for just a few dollars. The electric atmosphere—locals and tourists sharing tables, the sounds of sizzling woks, and the intoxicating aromas—makes every visit a sensory adventure.
Singapore constantly innovates with surprising food creations, blending modern and classic influences. From salted egg yolk croissants to chilli crab pasta, these unexpected twists keep the city’s dining scene dynamic and exciting. Whether you’re at a hawker centre or a fine-dining rooftop, Singapore’s food culture is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
2. What’s the one dish from this place that you dream about when you’re back home? (We all have that one dish we can’t stop thinking about. What’s yours, and where did you have it?)
The one dish from Singapore that I always dream about when I’m back home is Hainanese Chicken Rice. It’s deceptively simple yet incredibly satisfying—a tender, poached chicken served with aromatic rice cooked in rich chicken broth, accompanied by chilli sauce, ginger paste, and dark soy. What makes it unforgettable is the perfect balance of flavours: the savory, fragrant rice, the succulent chicken, and the trio of sauces that elevate each bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, and no matter how many times you’ve had it, it never loses its magic.
For the best Hainanese Chicken Rice in Singapore, Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre is legendary. Even celebrity chefs like Anthony Bourdain and Gordon Ramsay have praised it. The chicken is tender and juicy, the rice perfectly seasoned, and the chilli sauce packs just the right amount of heat. Once you’ve tried it, it’s hard not to crave it long after you’ve left—but to get it, you’ll need to queue.
3. When you’re in this dream destination, what does a perfect food day look like?
A perfect food day in Singapore is a delicious, non-stop adventure through the city’s diverse culinary landscape, blending local favourites with some iconic, indulgent treats.
Morning: Kaya Toast and Kopi at Ya Kun Kaya Toast
Kick off your day with a classic Singaporean breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. Enjoy crispy kaya toast spread with coconut jam and butter, paired with a soft-boiled egg and a strong, sweet cup of kopi (local coffee). This simple yet satisfying combination gives you a taste of Singapore’s beloved morning ritual, fueling you up for the day ahead.
Late Morning: Roti Prata at Tekka Market
For a mid-morning snack, head to Tekka Market in Little India for some roti prata. Freshly made to order, this flaky flatbread is best dipped in a bowl of spicy curry. Whether you stick with the plain prata or opt for one filled with egg or cheese, it’s a delicious way to experience Singapore’s vibrant Indian food scene.
Ice Cream Stop: Birds of Paradise
Before lunch, stop by Birds of Paradise in Katong for the best artisanal ice cream in Singapore. This beloved shop is known for its botanical-inspired flavours like pandan, lemongrass ginger, and white chrysanthemum. Their gelato is light, creamy, and bursting with natural flavours that reflect the tropical essence of Singapore. Be sure to get your scoop in their signature thyme-infused cone, which adds an extra aromatic touch.
Lunch: Hainanese Chicken Rice at Tian Tian
For lunch, make your way to Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre. Known worldwide for its tender, succulent chicken and fragrant rice, this dish is a must-try. The chilli, ginger, and dark soy sauces elevate every bite, making it a satisfying yet simple meal that defines Singaporean comfort food.
Afternoon: Cocktails
If you’ve never been, you just have to try the Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel. This historic drink, made with gin, cherry brandy, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine, has been a symbol of Singaporean sophistication for over a century. Sipping a Sling in the Long Bar, with its colonial charm, is a must-do on any visit to Singapore.
For something new, Nutmeg & Clove, recently named #28 in the World’s Top 50 Bars, offers exceptional cocktails. Try the Slinging Lion, a bold twist on the classic Singapore Sling, bursting with tropical flavours, served in a mini tricycle and paired with peanuts for a local flair.
Late Afternoon: Whole Squirrel Cake at Alice Boulangerie & Restaurant
Treat yourself to something whimsical at Alice Boulangerie & Restaurant, where the Whole Squirrel Cake is a standout. Shaped like an adorable squirrel, this creative pastry is as delicious as it is beautiful, with layers of intricate flavours and textures that surprise with every bite.
Dinner: Chilli Crab at Jumbo Seafood
As evening approaches, indulge in one of Singapore’s signature dishes: chilli crab at Jumbo Seafood at East Coast Park. This iconic dish is a fiery, flavourful masterpiece with fresh crab drenched in a rich, sweet-and-spicy chilli sauce. Dip fried mantou buns into the sauce, savor the perfectly cooked crab, and enjoy the lively, waterfront atmosphere.
Evening: Satay at Lau Pa Sat
If you’ve got any room left, finish your perfect food day with some late-night satay at Lau Pa Sat, where the street transforms into an outdoor grill festival in the evening. Watch as skewers of chicken, beef, and lamb are cooked over open flames, creating smoky, juicy bites of perfection. Served with peanut sauce and rice cakes, satay is a perfect snack to close out your culinary adventure. Pair it with a cold beer, sit back, and enjoy the bustling night vibe.
Night Cap: Atlas Bar
It’s a must-do. Drenched in Art Deco grandeur, the back bar here is something to behold—a totem of gin that climbs over 7m into the air, requiring a golden staircase, landing, and ladder to access it. You’ll want to start with a glass of champagne or a classic, like the Atlas Dry Martini. But in this palace-like setting, there’s not a bad drink, nor seat, in the house.
4. Is there a restaurant or café in this location that you think deserves a cult following? (What’s the spot you keep going back to, and why should everyone else know about it?)
If you haven’t yet heard of Alice Boulangerie & Restaurant, you’re in for a treat. This whimsical eatery has taken Singapore by storm, winning over food lovers and Instagrammers alike. The desserts are pure magic—take the famous Whole Squirrel Cake, for example. It’s so beautifully crafted that it looks like it jumped straight out of a fairy tale. Each dessert is meticulously designed, turning every dish into a visual delight that’s almost too pretty to eat (but you’ll definitely want to!).
With limited-edition desserts and seasonal offerings that create a buzz, it’s no wonder this spot has earned a cult following. Whether you’re indulging in a whimsical dessert or soaking in the charming atmosphere, Alice Boulangerie is a culinary adventure you won’t forget!
5. What’s the most surprising or underrated ingredient you’ve discovered in this place? (Share a hidden gem that you think more people should know about.)
Nick lived in Singapore for five years, and it was there that he first tried ikan bilis, which he has loved ever since. In Singapore, ikan bilis (anchovies) is a popular ingredient that appears in a variety of dishes, especially as a crunchy, salty topping. These tiny fish are often deep-fried and enjoyed as snacks or as part of local dishes such as nasi lemak, where they’re served alongside coconut rice, sambal (spicy chilli paste), fried egg, and peanuts.
6. Are there any foodie or cultural experiences in this place that have stuck with you? (Street markets, cooking classes, or anything that gives you a deeper connection to the local food culture?)
I absolutely love the hawker markets. There’s something magical about sitting at a simple plastic table surrounded by locals, feeling the tropical warmth, and enjoying dishes that capture the country’s rich cultural blend. The incredible mix of aromas wafting from each stall makes it a feast for all the senses—it’s an experience that truly awakens you to Singapore’s vibrant food scene.
Singapore’s cocktail scene is exceptional, buzzing with creativity and innovation that has firmly placed it on the global map—an experience you’ll want to continually explore. Take Jigger & Pony, for instance, recently ranked the fifth-best bar in the world. Their Espresso Martini borders on perfection, with vodka blending seamlessly with the bar’s own coffee mix, coffee flower honey, and a cacao tuile garnish—an absolute must-try.
Then there’s the thrill of finding the elusive Cat Bite Club. Look for the neon-red Cheshire cat at Monument Coffee, slip past the heavy grey curtains, and you’ll be transported into a minimalist space with a vibe that’s unmistakably speakeasy. Holding Singapore’s largest collection of agave spirits, Cat Bite Club serves up plenty to explore—don’t miss the cocktail in the Merlion cup for a highly Instagrammable moment.
At Analogue Initiative, the mission is all about sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Owner Vijay Mudaliar has set the bar’s ethos in motion right from its design: the striking centrepiece is a bar 3D-printed from 1,600 kg of recycled plastic bottles, giving a whole new meaning to green innovation.
Other cocktail highlights include Native, a unique spot where each floor serves a distinct purpose: the first for dining, the second for cocktails, and the third as a fermentation lab. Native has sustainability at its core, using local and regional ingredients to craft its inventive drinks—each sip is as thoughtful as it is delicious.
7. When you’re planning a trip, how much do you structure your itinerary around food? (Do you chase down restaurants and markets first, or are you more of a ‘discover it on the fly’ person?)
My travels revolve around food, art galleries, and design stores—in that order. Solo trips are quite different from family trips, but in both cases, finding local gems for great restaurants, coffee, and cocktails is always a priority. Before I head anywhere, I research my must-visit spots and save them as a list in Google Maps. It’s so convenient while exploring, and it makes sharing my favourite spots with others easy when they’re headed to the same place.
8. What are your top tips for fellow food-lovers visiting this place for the first time? (What’s the best advice for someone who wants to eat like a local?)
When I travel, I rely heavily on apps and, more recently, social reels to discover where locals love to eat in each city.
Since my sense of direction isn’t the best, navigation apps are essential. Rome2Rio and Citymapper are absolute must-haves wherever I go, as they show detailed routes, prices, transport options, and trip times from A to B—super helpful!
In Singapore, we used Gojek, the local version of Uber, which made getting around a breeze.
I also love the app Step, where top foodies and local curators share their favorite spots worldwide—perfect for uncovering hidden gems!
9. Any must-visit shops or markets to hit up for food souvenirs or local ingredients? (We’re talking spices, sauces, cookware—anything you’d throw in your suitcase!)
Singapore has fantastic options for local food souvenirs and unique ingredients! Here are a few top spots:
What to Find: Fresh spices, Indian snacks, exotic produce, and colorful textiles.
Must-Try: Grab some fresh curry powders or snack on murukku and other South Indian treats.
Tip: Don’t miss the hawker center on the second floor for authentic biryani and masala dosa.What to Find: Traditional condiments, kaya (coconut egg jam), and local snacks.
Must-Try: Check out Heng Heng Nyonya Kaya and other heritage brands for kaya, pickled vegetables, and chilli sauces.
Tip: Try the hawker center upstairs for one of Singapore’s best breakfast experiences.Wet Markets (e.g. Geylang Serai Market, Bedok Market)
What to Find: Traditional markets with fresh produce, seafood, and spices.
Must-Try: Geylang Serai is great for Malay ingredients like belacan (shrimp paste), pandan leaves, and local snacks.
Tip: Mornings are best for fresh produce, but for packaged items, you can go anytime.What to Find: High-quality Singapore Sling mixes and gourmet souvenirs.
Must-Try: Take home the original Singapore Sling mix and their exclusive chocolates.
Tip: Great for luxury souvenirs if you want something iconic and upscale.
10. What would you say to someone who’s never been to this destination—what are they missing out on? (Sell us on this place! What’s the vibe, and why should we add it to our must-visit list?)
Singapore is a vibrant fusion of cultures, stunning architecture, and incredible food that truly offers something for everyone. It’s a city where ancient temples sit side by side with futuristic skyscrapers, and lush green spaces are integrated into the urban landscape. It beautifully marries tradition and modernity, creating a unique atmosphere that’s both dynamic and welcoming.
One of the highlights of Singapore is its incredible food scene. From hawker centres serving mouthwatering local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and chilli crab to upscale restaurants offering innovative fusion cuisine, every meal is an adventure for your taste buds. The diversity of flavours reflects the city’s multicultural heritage, making it a food lover’s paradise. You’ll find vibrant night markets, cozy cafés, and Michelin-starred eateries all within a stone’s throw of each other, ensuring you’ll never run out of delicious options.
And let’s not forget the breathtaking sights! From the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the stunning Gardens by the Bay, the city is a visual feast. Strolling through neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultures that coexist here. Plus, the warm hospitality of the locals and the safety of the city make it easy to explore and soak up all that Singapore has to offer. So, if you’ve never visited, trust me—there’s a whole world of wonder waiting for you in Singapore!
