Top 25 Food Delights to make your National Day Event a Blast

Published on:
July 11, 2024

Welcome, fellow foodies and celebration enthusiasts, to our delectable guide on making this Singapore National Day an absolute blast! As we gear up to honour this special occasion, there's no better way to dive into the festivities than through the irresistible gateway of food!

We've scoured the culinary landscape far and wide to bring you the ultimate list of the Top 25 Culinary Delights that will elevate your National Day celebrations to new heights! Whether you're a seasoned chef, a passionate foodie, or just someone who loves a good feast, get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering journey that promises to tantalise your taste buds and ignite your festive spirit!

Let's embark on this flavourful adventure together and discover how these sensational dishes can turn your National Day into an unforgettable gastronomic experience!

Favourite Main Dishes:

1. Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh — a hearty bowl of Singaporean Comfort!  Just the name itself brings to mind the comforting aromas of herbs and spices mingling in a steaming bowl of broth. This beloved dish is a staple in Singaporean cuisine, known for its rich flavours and soothing qualities, making it a perfect addition to any National Day celebration! 

Bak Kut Teh translates to "meat bone tea" in Hokkien, reflecting its origins as a nourishing soup traditionally made with pork ribs simmered in a complex broth of medicinal herbs and spices. Legend has it that this dish was first concocted by Chinese labourers who sought a revitalising meal after hard days of work! Fascinating, isn’t it?

As you plan your National Day celebrations, consider adding Bak Kut Teh to your menu! As a dish steeped in tradition and bursting with flavour, it is perfect for bringing people together this National Day! 

2. Hainanese Chicken Rice

I’m sure we have all had Hainanese Chicken Rice before! It’s the quintessential comfort food that Singaporeans hold dear to their hearts and it is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that embodies the rich tapestry of Singapore's multicultural heritage, making it a must-have for any National Day celebration! 

At its heart, Hainanese Chicken Rice is a deceptively simple yet incredibly flavourful dish. Tender poached chicken is served atop fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, accompanied by a medley of condiments that elevate every bite! The harmony of flavours — from the succulent chicken to the aromatic rice and flavourful condiments — creates a symphony of taste that keeps Singaporeans coming back for more.

Whether you're enjoying it with family at home or hosting a gathering this National Day, this dish promises to be a highlight that honours Singapore's culinary heritage. Let the flavours transport you to the bustling streets of Singapore, where every bite tells a story of tradition and community! 

Picture from SBS

3. Chilli Crab

Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure with Singapore's crown jewel — Chilli Crab! Whether you're a local or a tourist, celebrating National Day without indulging in Chilli Crab would be like missing the grand finale of a fireworks display!

Imagine succulent crab bathed in luscious sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and spice. Chilli Crab features mud crab cooked to tender perfection in a savoury tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices and chilli. The result? A dish that's as bold and vibrant as Singapore itself! 

In Singapore, Chilli Crab is synonymous with celebrations and gatherings. From bustling hawker centres to elegant seafood restaurants, you'll find establishments that proudly serve this iconic dish! Let the vibrant flavours and communal spirit of this iconic dish ignite your celebration and honour Singapore's culinary heritage! 

4. Nasi Lemak

Get ready to embark on a flavour-packed journey with Nasi Lemak — a dish that's as aromatic as it is satisfying! While Nasi Lemak originates from Malaysia, it has become a beloved staple in Singapore's culinary landscape, celebrated for its vibrant flavours and comforting appeal! 

This iconic dish features fragrant coconut rice cooked with pandan leaves, served alongside an array of tantalising accompaniments. Traditionally, it includes spicy sambal (chilli paste), crispy fried anchovies (ikan bilis), roasted peanuts, boiled egg, and fresh cucumber slices. Some variations also feature fried chicken or beef rendang for an extra dose of flavour!

As you celebrate National Day this year, consider adding Nasi Lemak to your list of festivities! Whether you're enjoying it with family and friends or exploring new variations, this beloved dish promises to add a touch of Malaysian-Singaporean heritage to your celebration. Embrace the flavours, enjoy the company, and savour every moment of this culinary delight!

5. Laksa

Laksa — a dish that's bold, aromatic, and oh-so-satisfying! Hailing from the Peranakan Chinese culture, Laksa has secured its place as a beloved icon in Singapore's culinary scene, widely loved for its rich coconut broth and harmonious blend of spices. 

Laksa comes in various regional variations, but the two main types you'll find in Singapore are Katong Laksa and Curry Laksa. Katong Laksa features short, cut-up rice noodles (often referred to as laksa noodles), while Curry Laksa includes thicker noodles such as yellow noodles or vermicelli. Both versions are generously topped with ingredients like prawns, fish cakes, tofu puffs, and fresh bean sprouts, offering a symphony of textures in every spoonful! 

Eating Laksa is a sensory experience that engages all of your senses!  The first whiff of its fragrant broth will awaken your taste buds, followed by the satisfying slurp of noodles soaked in creamy coconut goodness! Laksa promises to add a burst of flavour and a touch of Singaporean heritage to your festivities! Embrace the spicy, creamy goodness and savour every spoonful — because with Laksa, every bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and culinary delight!

6. Bak Chor Mee

Dive into a bowl of pure comfort and flavour with Bak Chor Mee — a dish that's as beloved as it is delicious! If you love noodles or are simply someone who appreciates a hearty, satisfying meal, Bak Chor Mee deserves a special place on your National Day dining list! Let's unravel the magic of this Singaporean delight! 

Bak Chor Mee, which translates to "minced meat noodles" in Hokkien, is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Singaporean hawker fare. At its heart, it features springy noodles tossed in savoury sauce, topped with minced pork, slices of pork liver, meatballs, and sometimes crispy fried lard cubes. Each ingredient adds its own texture and flavour, creating a symphony of tastes in every mouthful!

The beauty of Bak Chor Mee lies in its simplicity and depth of flavour, and promises to be a culinary highlight of your festivities! It is hearty, satisfying, and packed with Singaporean flavour! Let's slurp our way into National Day with this ultimate comfort dish!

Picture from TasteAtlas

7. Sambal Stingray

Tantalise your taste buds with a dish that's bold and delicious — Sambal Stingray! This iconic seafood delight is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the vibrant flavours of Singapore's culinary scene. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or simply curious about trying something new, Sambal Stingray promises to make your National Day celebration unforgettable! 

Sambal, a chilli-based condiment blended with garlic, shallots, tamarind paste, and belachan, lends a fiery kick that's balanced by hints of sweetness and tanginess. This dish showcases the perfect marriage of fresh seafood and bold flavours that Singaporeans simply adore!

Beyond its irresistible flavours, Sambal Stingray embodies Singapore's love for seafood and bold, spicy dishes. It's a dish that celebrates local ingredients and culinary craftsmanship, making it a fitting choice for honouring Singapore's rich food heritage on National Day! Sharing Sambal Stingray with friends and family not only satisfies the palate but also fosters a sense of community and joyous celebration! 

8. Prawn Mee

Slurp your way into a bowl of pure bliss with Prawn Mee! If you’re someone who appreciates a hearty meal, Prawn Mee is a must-try during your National Day celebrations!

It's a dish that reflects Singapore's multicultural influences, blending Chinese and Malay flavours into a harmonious bowl of goodness. The star of the show? Fresh prawns cooked to perfection, imparting their delicate sweetness to the broth! Mix in a dollop of spicy sambal chilli paste and a squeeze of lime to elevate the flavours. Take pleasure in the interplay of tender prawns, savoury broth, and springy noodles, ensuring every bite is a delightful journey of taste and texture!

In Singapore, Prawn Mee is a staple dish found in hawker centres and coffee shops across the island. Each stall boasts its unique recipe and preparation method, ensuring a diverse range of flavours and textures to explore. Whether you're visiting Old Airport Road Hawker Centre, Tiong Bahru Market, or a neighbourhood kopitiam, you're bound to encounter a Prawn Mee that satisfies your craving for comfort and taste.

9. Fish Head Curry

Dive into Singapore’s spicy and flavourful delicacy — Fish Head Curry, a dish that's as bold and tantalising as it is uniquely Singaporean! Let's uncover the flavours and stories behind this iconic dish!

Fish Head Curry is a popular dish in Singapore featuring spicy, aromatic curry. At its heart, the dish features a tender, succulent fish head — typically from species like red snapper or grouper — cooked in a rich, coconut-based curry gravy. The curry is infused with a medley of spices such as turmeric, cumin, fenugreek, and chilli, creating a robust flavour profile that's comforting and exhilarating at the same time!

Eating Fish Head Curry is an experience that invites you to dive in with gusto. Beyond its delectable flavours, Fish Head Curry symbolises Singapore's multicultural heritage and the spirit of culinary innovation. So, as you celebrate National Day this year, consider indulging in the rich flavours of Fish Head Curry!

Savoury Treats:

10. Crispy Twist Potato

Get ready to crunch and munch your way into happiness with the Crispy Twist Potato — a snack that's as delightful as it is irresistible! Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Singapore or hosting a backyard barbecue, this twisted treat is sure to add a twist of fun to your National Day festivities!

Crispy Twist Potato is a culinary creation that transforms humble potatoes into a spiral of crispy goodness. It is an innovative snack that is deep-fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to a fluffy, potato-y interior. It's a visual delight and a textural adventure all in one!

If you are planning to host an event this coming National Day, be sure to engage The Carnival Fair’s Crispy Potato Twist Live Station! We have skilled chefs that are able to entertain crowds, and a wide range of different flavours for you to choose from, so rest assured that you will be able to find something that caters to your taste buds! 

As you enjoy the festivities of National Day, don't miss out on the opportunity to savour the crispy, savoury goodness of Crispy Twist Potato. Whether you're enjoying it at a local event or recreating the experience at home, this snack promises to bring a smile to your face and a crunch to your celebration. Let's twist and munch our way into National Day with this fun and flavorful treat! 

11. Crispy Roti Prata

Roti Prata is a beloved Singaporean delight that's crispy, flaky, and utterly satisfying. It is a popular breakfast choice in Singapore, and is sure to start your day right and elevate your National Day celebration to new heights! 

Made from a simple dough of flour, water, and ghee, Roti Prata is stretched, folded, and skill-fully flipped until it becomes thin and elastic. It's then cooked on a flat hot griddle, where it crisps up beautifully to achieve its signature golden-brown hue. The result? A crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy centre — a textural delight that Singaporeans adore! 

As you celebrate National Day this year, don't miss the chance to savour the crispy, flaky goodness of Roti Prata! Let's flip, tear, and dip our way into National Day with this irresistible Singaporean favourite!

12. Kaya Toast with Soft-boiled Eggs

Prepare to start your National Day with a taste of nostalgia and comfort with Kaya Toast paired perfectly with Soft-boiled Eggs — a uniquely Singaporean breakfast that's both simple and incredibly satisfying! This beloved combination promises to kickstart your day with a burst of flavour and a warm, fuzzy feeling, and is a must-have for National Day! 

Eating Kaya Toast with Soft-boiled Eggs is an experience that evokes memories of lazy weekend mornings and bustling kopitiams. Whether you decide to make it yourself, or to head to the nearest coffee shop — the choice is yours! 

Kaya Toast with Soft-boiled Eggs is a dish that transcends generations, bringing together locals and tourists alike over a shared love for good food and heartfelt conversations. Enjoying Kaya Toast with Soft-boiled Eggs on National Day celebrates this sense of community and the warmth of Singaporean hospitality, making it a meaningful part of your festive celebrations! 

13. Traditional Biscuits

Step into a world of sweet nostalgia and delightful flavours with Traditional Biscuits — a beloved part of Singapore's culinary heritage that brings back cherished memories and satisfies sweet cravings in the most delightful way! 

From buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies to aromatic pandan-infused treats, Traditional Biscuits offer a delightful assortment that caters to every palate. In Singapore, these biscuits are lovingly crafted by skilled bakers and can be found in specialty bakeries, traditional confectionery shops, and even at local markets during festive seasons. 

Beyond their delicious flavours and intricate designs, Traditional Biscuits symbolise Singapore's cultural diversity and the importance of preserving culinary heritage. Enjoying Traditional Biscuits on National Day is a celebration of Singapore's rich cultural tapestry and the joy of sharing cherished traditions with family and friends! 

14. Curry Puff

Ready to bite into a savoury delight that's packed with flavour and loved by all — the Curry Puff? They are sure to add a burst of deliciousness to your National Day festivities, so without further ado, let’s uncover why these golden, crispy pastries are a must-try for National Day! 

Curry Puffs are savoury pastries that boast a crisp, golden-brown exterior and a flavorful filling bursting with spices. The filling typically consists of curried potatoes, diced chicken or beef, onions, and sometimes a hint of curry leaves and spices like turmeric and cumin. Encased in a flaky pastry shell that's either deep-fried or baked to perfection, Curry Puffs are a handheld treat that's both satisfying and addictive!

As you celebrate National Day this year, treat yourself to the crispy, savoury goodness of Curry Puff. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite on the go or serving them at your National Day gathering, these golden pastries are sure to be a hit. It is a crispy, savory delight that's perfect for any occasion, especially National Day!

15. Grilled Otah

Prepare your taste buds for a spicy sensation that's as Singaporean as it gets — Grilled Otah! Wrapped in banana leaves, this grilled fish cake promises to add a fiery kick to your National Day celebrations!

Grilled Otah is a traditional Singaporean snack made from a mixture of fish paste, coconut milk, aromatic herbs, and other spices. It is then wrapped in banana leaves, giving it a distinctive aroma and a hint of earthy sweetness. The banana leaves not only impart flavour but also help retain moisture, ensuring that the Otah cooks evenly and stays moist while grilling! Fascinating, isn’t it?

Grilled Otah is a dish that brings people together over a shared love for spicy, flavorful food and the joy of communal dining! As a result, celebrating the upcoming National Day with Grilled Otah symbolises a celebration of Singapore's vibrant food scene and the spirit of unity that comes from enjoying delicious food with friends and family! 

16. Prepacked Kacang Puteh

Snack your way through Singapore's rich culinary history with Prepacked Kacang Puteh, a crunchy nostalgic treat for your National Day celebration this year! Whether you're strolling down memory lane or discovering these delightful snacks for the first time, Prepacked Kacang Puteh is a must-try during your National Day festivities!

It is a traditional Singaporean snack that consists of an assortment of crunchy nuts and legumes, typically served in small paper cones or packets.  Each nut and legume is roasted to perfection, seasoned lightly with salt and spices, creating a satisfying blend of textures and flavours in every bite!

The charm of Prepacked Kacang Puteh lies in its simplicity and natural flavours. It is a wholesome snack that's crunchy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients — a guilt-free indulgence that's hard to resist! Eating it takes you on a flavoruful journey through Singapore's snack culture that's perfect for National Day and beyond!

Picture from Great British Chef

17. Satay

Are you looking to sizzle your way to flavourful fun this National Day? Well, look no further! Get ready to fire up your taste buds and embark on a skewered adventure with Satay — a quintessential Singaporean delight that promises to add sizzle and spice to your National Day celebrations!

Whether you're a fan of grilled meats or simply love exploring bold flavours, Satay is a must-try, consisting of marinated and skewered meat, usually chicken, beef, or lamb, grilled to perfection over charcoal. Once grilled, Satay is served with a rich and flavorful peanut sauce, along with sides like cucumber and onion slices, and sometimes a generous dollop of spicy chilli paste for an extra kick!

Skewered, grilled, and served with love, that’s Satay for you! What are you waiting for? Let’s savour the flavours and celebrate Singapore's culinary heritage with this irresistible dish on National Day!

The Perfect Sweet Treats:

18. Traditional Ice Cream Cart

The sun shining, the air filled with laughter, and the unmistakable jingle of an ice cream cart approaching — it's time to cool off and indulge in a slice of sweet nostalgia with Singapore's Traditional Ice Cream Cart! 

The Traditional Ice Cream Cart is a beloved fixture in Singapore, typically seen at parks, beaches, and neighbourhood corners. It offers a delightful selection of ice cream flavours served in slices of rainbow-coloured bread or wafer biscuits. The ice cream itself comes in classic Singaporean favourites like red bean, yam, sweet corn, and durian, sandwiched between two slices of soft, pillowy bread or crispy biscuits. Just the thought of it is enough to make anyone hungry! 

Choose your flavour, watch as the vendor skill-fully slices it onto your choice of bread or biscuit, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy sweetness against the crisp texture of the bread or biscuit. It's a treat that's as refreshing as it is comforting, evoking fond memories with every bite! 

If you’re looking for a traditional ice cream cart at your National Day celebration, but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered. With The Carnival Fair’s Traditional Ice Cream Cart Live Station, sit back, relax, and watch as your guests indulge in the sweetest delights! 

19. Ice Kacang

When the heat of National Day hits, there's nothing like cooling down with a bowl of Ice Kacang — Singapore's ultimate icy treat that's as refreshing as it is delightful! Ice Kacang promises a burst of colours, flavours, and sheer enjoyment that will leave you yearning for more! 

Ice Kacang is a beloved Malaysian and Singaporean dessert that combines shaved ice with a colourful array of toppings and syrups. At its heart is a mound of finely shaved ice, drenched in rose or pandan syrup, and condensed milk for a creamy sweetness. The ice is then crowned with a variety of toppings such as sweet corn, red beans and grass jelly. Each spoonful is a delightful mix of textures and flavours that refreshes and satisfies! 

As you celebrate National Day this year, treat yourself to the vibrant flavours and refreshing coolness of Ice Kacang. Whether you're exploring new flavours or reliving childhood memories, this iconic dessert promises to sweeten your day and create lasting moments of joy. Embrace the colours, savour the textures, and let Ice Kacang be a highlight of your National Day!

20. Ice Chendol 

When the energy and temperature levels rise this National Day, there's one sweet treat that stands out as a must-try — Ice Chendol! This vibrant dessert is not only a refreshing way to cool down but also a delightful journey into Singapore's rich culinary heritage that is sure to sweeten your National Day celebrations with its unique blend of flavours and textures! 

At its core, Chendol features green pandan-flavoured rice flour jelly noodles, also known as Chendol, swimming in a pool of coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. Its magic lies in its combination of cool, creamy coconut milk and the slightly chewy, jelly-like Chendol noodles. Furthermore, the pandan flavour infuses the dessert with a hint of sweetness and a pleasant aroma, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Celebrating National Day with Ice Chendol is not just about enjoying a sweet treat — it's about embracing Singapore's rich food culture and the joy of sharing delightful desserts with friends and family! Where sweetness meets coolness in a bowl of delightful green goodness, let’s scoop, swirl, and savour National Day with this beloved Singaporean dessert!

21. Tu Tu Kueh

Tu Tu Kueh is a delightful Singaporean bite-sized snack that packs a punch of flavour and nostalgia! Let's explore why this tiny treat holds a big place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and tourists alike!

Made from steamed rice flour filled with either sweet or savoury fillings, these small soft cakes are often oval-shaped and topped with grated coconut, giving them a distinctive texture and flavour. The fillings can vary from classic choices like peanut or coconut to more modern twists such as chocolate or even durian, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences across generations! 

Tu Tu Kueh is a bite-sized reminder of Singapore's rich culinary heritage and the joy found in simple pleasures. Let each soft, coconut-topped morsel transport you to a moment of pure indulgence and community spirit, while we steam up some memories and celebrate National Day with this cherished Singaporean snack!

22. Durian

Hold your nose and open your taste buds wide because we're diving into the world of Durian — Singapore's infamous "King of Fruits" that sparks both curiosity and delight! Let's peel back the layers of this polarising fruit and discover why it's an essential part of Singapore's food culture!

If you're wondering why Durian has earned its regal title, just take one whiff! Its pungent aroma, often described as a blend of roasted almonds and sweet custard, is unmistakable and divisive. Some find it irresistible, while others approach with caution. But fear not, because beneath its thorny exterior lies a creamy, custardy flesh that's rich in flavour and texture. Each bite is a bold adventure, offering a combination of sweet and savoury notes that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

It’s time to step out of your comfort zones this National Day and bravely experience the allure of Durian and discover why it's earned its place as the King of Fruits! Embrace the aroma and celebrate Singapore's rich cultural heritage with every creamy bite of this iconic fruit. It's a taste of Singapore that's as bold and unforgettable as the nation itself!

23. Tau Huay (Soybean Pudding)

Prepare to indulge in Tau Huay, Singapore's beloved soybean pudding that's perfect for sweetening up your National Day celebrations! With its smooth consistency and subtle sweetness, it definitely deserves a spot in your list of items to eat this National Day!

Tau Huay, also known as Douhua in Chinese, is a delicate dessert made from coagulated soy milk. It's characterised by its silky-smooth texture and mild sweetness, making it a popular choice among dessert lovers in Singapore. Traditionally served warm or chilled, Tau Huay is often enjoyed plain or with a drizzle of sugar syrup for added sweetness! 

The magic of Tau Huay lies in its texture — smooth, velvety, and almost custard-like in consistency. Each spoonful melts gently in your mouth, offering a gentle sweetness that lingers pleasantly in your mouth! With every spoonful of this beloved soybean pudding, you're not just tasting a dessert — you're experiencing a piece of local culture that brings joy and warmth to the festivities! 

Iced Cooled Drinks:

24. Teh Tarik

Sip, swirl, and celebrate National Day with Singapore’s favourite brew! Get ready to experience a drink that's more than just tea — it's a cultural phenomenon! Meet Teh Tarik, the beloved "pulled tea" that is sure to add warmth and flavour to any National Day celebration in Singapore! 

Teh Tarik is made from black tea leaves brewed to perfection and mixed with condensed or evaporated milk, creating a creamy and aromatic blend. What sets Teh Tarik apart is its preparation method — the tea is skillfully "pulled" or poured between two containers from a height, creating a frothy top and mixing the flavours thoroughly! 

Beyond its delicious flavours and cultural significance, Teh Tarik embodies Singapore's spirit of unity and inclusivity. It's a beverage that transcends generations and backgrounds, bringing together locals and tourists alike to share in the joy of good company and great tea! Let's raise a cup and celebrate National Day with this iconic Singaporean brew!

25. Bandung

Taste Singapore in Pink with Bandung — the refreshing, rosy beverage that's a must-have for any National Day celebration! Bandung promises a delightful blend of sweet rose syrup and creamy evaporated milk that's sure to brighten up your day!

Bandung is a popular non-alcoholic drink enjoyed in Singapore, known for its striking pink colour and sweet, floral taste. It's made by mixing rose syrup with evaporated milk and water, creating a refreshing beverage that's both creamy and fragrant. The combination of floral notes from the rose syrup and the smoothness of evaporated milk makes Bandung a unique and beloved beverage! 

As you celebrate National Day this year, don't miss the chance to add a splash of colour and flavour to your festivities with Bandung. Whether you're discovering its refreshing qualities for the first time or indulging in a favourite tradition, let Bandung be a highlight of your culinary adventure. Sip, savour, and celebrate with this iconic pink drink that's as delightful as it is symbolic of Singapore's vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Wow! What a mouthwatering journey it has been through Singapore's culinary wonders! From the iconic Hainanese Chicken Rice to the irresistible Chilli Crab and the refreshing Ice Kacang, each dish tells a story of culture, flavour, and community. Whether you're planning a grand National Day feast or simply looking to indulge in some delicious treats, Singaporean cuisine offers something for everyone to savour and enjoy! 

We hope this guide has inspired you to spice up your National Day celebrations with these delightful dishes. Don't hesitate to gather your friends and family, fire up the stove (or visit your favourite hawker stall!), and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the heart and soul of Singapore!

Let's make this National Day a blast with delicious food and delightful company! For more food options, check out the live food stations that The Carnival Fair has to offer.