The best bak kut teh in Singapore offers a rich, tasty broth with a perfect balance of peppery warmth and savoury depth from slow-simmered pork bones. The meat is tender, almost falling off the bone, and absorbs the aromatic spices and herbs. The experience notches up one level when the accompaniments like crunchy youtiao, pickled vegetables and a DIY chilli, garlic and black sweet sauce combo are added. This harmonious blend creates a comforting, soul-warming dish that’s both invigorating and deeply satisfying.
Bak Kut Teh (Bak Koot Teh or even Bakuteh), literal translation “meat bone tea,” is a beloved dish in Singapore with origins tracing back to the early Chinese immigrants who arrived in the 19th century. Primarily Teochew and Hokkien, these immigrants brought with them culinary traditions from southeastern China. The dish evolved to meet the needs of laborers working along the Singapore River, whose meagre salaries meant most of them had to skip the meat and opt for the brewed meat bones (bak kut) for nourishment.
Traditionally, bak kut teh features pork ribs simmered in a rich broth of herbs and spices, including pepper and garlic for the Teochew style, or a complex mix of herbs for the Hokkien variation. Over the decades, this humble dish has become a staple of Singaporean cuisine, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for its comforting, aromatic qualities.
Here is our list of the 10 Best Bak kut teh in Singapore
Song Fa remains a beloved local gem for its exceptional Bak Kut Teh (pork rib soup). Known for its rich flavour and aromatic broth, it’s a must-visit for anyone who hasn’t had a bowl of bak kut teh. Song Fa has over 10 outlets islandwide but this original location stands out for its consistent quality. … Read more
Joo Siah Bak Koot Teh, in a small kopitiam near Chinese Garden MRT, is known for its famous pork ribs soup and other family recipe dishes. Run by second-generation hawker Mr. Ryan Chua, Joo Siah attracts customers with flavourful offerings like braised pork trotters and tender braised meats. Popular dishes include Bak Kut Teh, Braised … Read more
NG AH SIO’s Bak Kut Teh is 100% a standout, with a rich, peppery broth that becomes even more flavourful with the addition of smashed garlic cloves, complemented by unlimited free refills. The pork ribs are tender, almost falling off the bone, and well-marinated to eliminate any unwelcomed porky smell. The pig trotters are decadently fatty yet balanced with lean meat, while the intestines are meticulously cleaned. The service, as always, is impeccable, rounding out a dining experience steeped in tradition and excellence.
Ya Hua Bak Kut Teh at Havelock, holds a special place for many aficionados of this traditional dish. Established nearly four decades ago, its legacy includes a founder who apprenticed under Ng Bee Song, known for the Ng Ah Sio brand. Open until late hours, Ya Hua has earned a reputation as a preferred supper destination, appreciated for its piping hot Teochew-style peppery broth and tender pork ribs. Patrons often pair their meal with rice, salted vegetables, and a clove of garlic that softens to a luxurious texture in the hearty broth, complemented by crispy ‘you cha kway’ or you…
Yong Kee Claypot Bak Kut Teh, located at Taman Jurong Market & Food Centre, has been a favorite for its pork rib soup in claypots for over 30 years. This family-run stall offers a choice of rich Chinese herbal broth or a savory pepper version, both known for their balanced flavors. The claypot keeps the … Read more
Having frequented Ci Feng Bak Kut Teh for its Klang bak kut teh, sesame oil chicken, braised chicken feet, and dry youmian, it is evident that this place remains an underrated gem. The herbal bak kut teh stands out as perhaps the finest, with a richly herbal and robust soup. The claypot version offers a … Read more
Sin Heng Claypot BKT enjoys widespread acclaim among locals, known for its consistently excellent food and bustling atmosphere. Regular patrons often rave about their top three dishes: the herbal Claypot BKT, renowned for its rich, fragrant broth and perfectly cooked pork ribs; the generous serving of crispy Cereal Chicken, a delightful complement to the hot soup; and the fluffy Cai Po Egg, featuring a savoury omelette with crunchy preserved radish. The restaurant prides itself not only on its delectable offerings but also on efficient, friendly service from a staff dedicated to ensuring a seamless dining experience.
For those who love a strong pepper flavour, this stall is a great choice. The rich, savory broth pairs well with the tender meat, making it perfect for pepper Bak Kut Teh fans. Compared to Song Fa, the broth here is lighter but still has a lot of pepper kick. It’s a good alternative to … Read more
Photo credit: @Mightyfoodie (Instagram)
Hua Xing Bak Kut Teh at Yuhua Place Market & Hawker Centre is a cherished spot in Jurong East, and draws a dedicated local following for its outstanding pork rib soup. Conveniently accessible from Chinese Garden MRT Station, it’s a short walk away, making it an ideal stop for both residents and visitors alike. Hua Xing delivers a satisfying depth of flavour with a subtle sweetness. While the soup’s balance of spices like soy sauce, peppers, and herbs adds complexity, patrons often queue early to savour its loved braised pork and hearty ribs.
For over 40 years, Founder Bak Kut Teh has been known for its traditional Teochew-style pork rib soup in Singapore. Famous for its tasty Bak Kut Teh, this restaurant attracts diners from Singapore and nearby countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Japan. The walls of the restaurant, covered with photos of celebrities, … Read more
Types of Bak Kut Teh
Notes: In Singapore, bak kut teh comes in two main styles: Teochew and Hokkien, each offering a distinct flavour profile. The Teochew version is renowned for its clear, peppery broth, made with white peppercorns and garlic, delivering a spicy and aromatic kick that enhances the tender pork ribs. This style is favoured for its simplicity and invigorating warmth.
On the other hand, the Hokkien variant features a darker, more robust soup, enriched with a blend of medicinal herbs and soy sauce, resulting in a richer, more complex flavour. This herbal broth is believed to have health benefits, adding a depth of earthy flavors to the succulent meat. Beyond these, there are also Cantonese influences that add goji berries and other Chinese herbs, creating a sweeter, slightly medicinal taste. Each style of bak kut teh has its own loyal following, which style makes the best bak kut teh in Singapore is really up to your personal preference.
See all listings of Bak Kut Teh Hawkers/Restaurants
Best Bak Kut Teh in Singapore? Song Fa, lah. Peppery broth so strong, it can clear your nose. Meat so tender, even ah ma can chew. Pair with crispy you tiao, and you’ll be dunking till cows come home. Got queue, of course, what you expect? Good things must wait.
My favourite Ng ah sio BKT is the best bak kut teh in sg =)
Ya Hua at Havelock or Ng ah sio at Rangoon. Both serve pretty damn good bak kut teh.
best bak kut teh singapore is the pepper water at Song Fa. hahahahaha!
Best Bak Kut teh is Ng ah Sio or song fa for me 🤔
Have you guys tried Rong hua bak kut teh over at Connexis? Might possibly be the the best best bakuteh in singapore. Give it a try!
369 Balestier Bak Kut Teh for 24 hour bak kut teh cravings.
I queued at the famous bak kut teh at Clarke Quay. It was worth the wait. Then I realized they have so many outlets. hahaha. Lesson learnt!
Commented on Best Bak Kut Teh in Singapore
Lots of good bak kut teh in Singapore. I personally like 368 balestier, it opens till late and is a great supper spot.