Zi char (or tze char), literally “cook and fry” from Hokkien, is one of Singapore’s most beloved casual dining experiences — home-style Chinese cooking with a wide variety of wok-fried dishes shared family-style. Known for bold flavours, generous portions, and comfort food classics like cereal prawns, sambal kangkong, and coffee pork ribs, zi char remains a go-to choice for dinners with family and friends across the island.
Here’s a guide to the best zi char in Singapore based on recent reviews, Google ratings, longevity, and consistency — including legendary names, local favourites, and hidden gems worth trying.
What Makes Great Zi Char
Zi char dishes should celebrate rich wok hei, bold seasoning, and a diverse menu that goes beyond a single speciality. The best places offer standout seafood, fried classics, vegetable dishes, and rice/noodle favourites — all served fast and hot to the table. Whether you’re hunting for old-school consistency or creative twists, there’s a zi char spot here for every palate.
Top Zi Char Restaurants & Stalls in Singapore
Keng Eng Kee Seafood – Classic Zi Char with Iconic Dishes
Address: 124 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-136, Singapore 150124 | Phone: +6562721038
A household name in the Singapore zi char scene, Keng Eng Kee (KEK) has been praised for decades — even recommended by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain. Their menu blends Cantonese comfort with innovative touches like coffee pork ribs and Moonlight Hor Fun. Signature dishes consistently deliver good wok hei and balanced flavours, making KEK a must-try for both locals and visitors.
Best for: Seafood lovers, classic zi char favourites like Moonlight Hor Fun and Marmite Chicken.
KOK Sen Restaurant – Michelin-Recognised Zi Char
Address: Keong Saik Rd., 4, Singapore 089110 | Phone: +6597272533
A beloved Keong Saik Road zi char institution, Kok Sen’s family-run restaurant has earned a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, reflecting its well-executed home-style cooking and thoughtful flavours. Expect dishes like Big Prawn Hor Fun, claypot yong tau foo, and kung pao frogs — all boasting rich textures and satisfying wok heat.
Best for: Iconic zi char with a refined touch and consistent quality.
Two Chefs Eating Place – Reliable Heartland Favourite
Address: 116 Commonwealth Cres, #01-129, Singapore 140116 | Phone: +6564725361
Two Chefs has built up massive popularity with consistently tasty zi char at wallet-friendly prices. Its extensive menu — from butter pork ribs to spicy sambal dishes — draws crowds at both its Commonwealth and Sin Ming outlets. The generous portions and steady quality make it a favourite for group dinners.
Best for: Affordable zi char with lots of variety.
YANG MING SEAFOOD – Highly Rated Seafood Zi Char
Address: 71 Ubi Cres, #01-05, Excalibur Centre, Singapore 408571 | Phone: +6580282230
A top recommendation among local discussion threads and diner reviews, Yang Ming Seafood in Bishan/Ubi is praised for fresh seafood and homely zi char fare. Rated very highly on Google for its consistent taste and hearty portions, it’s especially popular with seafood fans who like classic chilli crab, curry fish head, and more.
Best for: Seafood-centric zi char with strong reviews.
J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant – Malaysian-Style Zi Char Spin
Address: 534 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389490 | Phone: +6567412418
J.B. Ah Meng serves up zi char with a Malaysian flair — richer sambals, browned wok notes, and hearty mains like San Lou Mee Hoon and white pepper crab. Located in Geylang, it’s a favourite for late suppers or weekend dinners with friends.
Best for: Fans of Johor Bahru-style zi char and late-night dining.
Zai Shun Curry Fish Head – Go-To Curry Fish Head Stall
Address: 253 Jurong East St 24, #01-205, Singapore 600253 | Phone: +6565608594
While best known for its curry fish head, Zai Shun also operates as a beloved zi char destination where dishes like sambal kangkong, seafood noodles, and fish dishes reflect old-school cooking with generous portions. Often recommended by diners seeking hearty, robust flavours across a shared table.
Best for: Curry fish head plus wide zi char menu.
Long Ji Zi Char – Classic Dishes, Strong Local Following
Address: 253 Outram Rd, Singapore 169049 | Phone: +6597905682
Based on reviews and consistent heartland praise, Long Ji Zi Char is a favourite in the Outram area for reliable traditional zi char classics. Expect solid versions of crowd pleasers — from cereal prawns to sambal stingray — all emphasising bold, familiar flavours.
Best for: Traditional zi char favourites close to the city.
Hidden & Up-and-Coming Picks
- Dashan Mala Hot Pot Zi Char – Fresh spin with mala flavours fused into zi char staples, great if spice and Sichuan influence excite you.
Signature Dishes to Try at Zi Char
No zi char table is complete without a mix of classic hits and inventive plates. Some must-order items you’ll find at these eateries include:
- Cereal prawns — crispy, flavourful and iconic.
- Coffee pork ribs — rich, umami sticky goodness.
- Sambal stingray — smoky, spicy and juicy.
- Wok-hei fried rice or hor fun — staple, comforting carbs packed with flavour.
- Fish head curry and curry fish head — popular at places like Zai Shun.
Tips for Choosing Your Zi Char Spot
Location & crowd factor: Many classic zi char places fill up fast on weekends — reservations or early arrival can help avoid long waits.
Group size: Most zi char restaurants are perfect for sharing with 3–6 people since dishes are served family-style.
Spice level: If you’re sensitive to heat, ask for milder cooking, as some spots (especially Malaysian-inspired ones) can be fiery.
Vegetarian options: Not all zi char kitchens focus on vegetarian dishes, so check menus ahead if needed.
Final Thoughts
Singapore’s zi char scene remains rich, diverse, and fiercely local. From heritage names like Keng Eng Kee Seafood and Kok Sen Restaurant to bustling favourites like Two Chefs Eating Place and J.B. Ah Meng Restaurant, there’s a flavour profile for every preference — whether classic home-style comfort, seafood-centric feasts, or bold Malaysian influences.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner, hearty supper with friends, or weekend treat, these spots deliver some of the best zi char experiences in the city — each with its own local legacy and signature dishes worth trying.
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