Known in Thailand as pad kra pao, the dish combines fragrant holy basil, garlic, chillies and stir-fried meat with steaming hot rice and a crispy-edged fried egg. It sounds deceptively simple, but when done well, the result is intensely savoury, spicy and aromatic. The runny egg yolk coats every grain of rice while the basil adds a distinctive herbal fragrance that separates it from ordinary fried rice.
Over the past few years, basil rice has become increasingly popular in Singapore, thanks partly to viral concepts inspired by Bangkok’s famous Phed Mark. Today, diners can find everything from affordable hawker-style basil pork rice to restaurant-quality versions made with premium ingredients and authentic Thai seasonings.
Whether you prefer minced pork, chicken, beef or seafood, these are some of the best places in Singapore to satisfy your basil fried rice cravings.
| Restaurant | Best For | Contact | Address | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basil King | Best Overall Basil Rice | Multiple Outlets | Islandwide | ★★★★★ |
| Siam Smith | Best Premium Thai Experience | +65 6235 8901 | 390 Orchard Road #01-01 Palais Renaissance | ★★★★★ |
| ChilChil Thai Street Kitchen | Best Modern Thai Street Food | +65 6263 9169 | 8 Grange Road #01-07 Cineleisure | ★★★★★ |
| Nang Len | Best Authentic Thai Flavours | +65 8785 0507 | 20 Tanjong Pagar Road | ★★★★½ |
| Ros Lamul | Best Hidden Thai Gem | +65 9816 8055 | 379 Guillemard Road | ★★★★½ |
| Sawasdee Thai Restaurant | Best Chinatown Option | +65 9610 9975 | 6 Trengganu Street | ★★★★½ |
| Sanook Kitchen | Best Casual Dining Option | +65 6263 9156 | 16 Lorong Mambong | ★★★★½ |
| Bali Thai | Best Family-Friendly Restaurant | +65 6560 5660 | IMM Building | ★★★★ |
| Thai Food Basil | Best Affordable Hawker Option | +65 9749 3425 | 51 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 9 | ★★★★ |
1. Basil King
Among Singapore’s newer food success stories, Basil King has quickly become the name most commonly associated with basil rice. Inspired by Bangkok’s famous pad kra pao concepts, the brand focuses almost entirely on basil stir-fry rice dishes with customisable spice levels and multiple fried egg options. The chain has expanded rapidly across Singapore and built a loyal following thanks to its savoury, garlic-heavy stir-fry and signature runny eggs.
For first-timers, the Basil Pork Rice remains the must-order dish. The combination of minced pork, holy basil, garlic, fish sauce and fried egg captures everything people love about Thai basil rice.
Popular Outlets:
- Basil King @ Waterloo
- Basil King (AMK)
- Basil King (496 Jurong)
- Basil King (Upp Thomson)
2. Siam Smith
Originally known for its Thai boat noodles, Siam Smith also serves an excellent version of basil rice. The restaurant focuses on authentic Thai flavours and ingredients, resulting in a dish that feels closer to what you might find in Bangkok than many local adaptations.
The seasoning is bold, the basil fragrance comes through clearly, and the proteins are cooked with enough heat to develop that characteristic wok aroma.
Address: 390 Orchard Road, #01-01 Palais Renaissance, Singapore 238871
Contact: +65 6235 8901
3. ChilChil Thai Street Kitchen
Located in Cineleisure Orchard, ChilChil has earned a reputation for modern Thai street food that remains faithful to traditional flavours. Its basil rice is particularly popular among younger diners looking for something spicy, satisfying and affordable.
The restaurant strikes a good balance between authenticity and accessibility, making it a great introduction to Thai basil rice for newcomers.
Address: 8 Grange Road, #01-07 Cineleisure, Singapore 239695
Contact: +65 6263 9169
4. NangLen Thai Restaurant Bar
NangLen has developed a strong reputation among Thai food enthusiasts in Singapore. While many diners visit for its tom yum and Thai sharing dishes, the basil rice deserves more attention.
The kitchen uses generous amounts of basil and chilli, resulting in a fragrant and satisfying plate that pairs perfectly with a crispy fried egg.
Address: 20 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088443
Contact: +65 8785 0507
5. Ros Lamul
Ros Lamul may not be as famous as some of the larger Thai restaurant chains, but many regulars consider it one of Singapore’s most authentic Thai eateries.
The basil rice here leans towards traditional Thai flavours, with a noticeable emphasis on herbs, fish sauce and spice rather than sweetness.
Address: 379 Guillemard Road, Singapore 399783
Contact: +65 9816 8055
6. Sawasdee Thai Restaurant
Situated in Chinatown, Sawasdee Thai Restaurant offers an extensive menu of Thai favourites, including a reliable basil fried rice.
Its central location makes it especially convenient for tourists and office workers seeking authentic Thai food without travelling far.
Address: 6 Trengganu Street, Singapore 058460
Contact: +65 9610 9975
7. Sanook Kitchen
Sanook Kitchen has become one of Singapore’s most successful casual Thai dining chains. Its basil rice is approachable, flavourful and family-friendly, making it a good option for diners who want Thai food without overwhelming spice levels.
8. Bali Thai (IMM)
Although known for both Thai and Indonesian dishes, Bali Thai serves a respectable basil rice that appeals to a broad audience.
The larger restaurant format also makes it suitable for families and group dining.
Address: 2 Jurong East Street 21, #01-21 IMM Building, Singapore 609601
Contact: +65 6560 5660
9. Thai food basil
For diners seeking an affordable hawker-style option, this small stall in Ang Mo Kio Police Station delivers surprisingly authentic flavours.
The focus is entirely on basil rice dishes, keeping the menu simple and allowing the kitchen to specialise.
Address: 51 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 9, Singapore 569784
Contact: +65 9749 3425
What Is the Difference Between Basil Rice and Basil Fried Rice?
In Thailand, pad kra pao traditionally refers to stir-fried meat cooked with holy basil and served over rice. In Singapore, many people casually refer to it as basil fried rice even though the rice itself is usually steamed rather than fried.
The defining flavour comes from holy basil, garlic, chillies and fish sauce rather than the rice preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which place serves the best basil rice in Singapore?
Basil King currently stands out as one of Singapore’s most popular destinations for basil rice thanks to its focused menu, customisable spice levels and consistently strong customer reception.
What meat is traditionally used in basil rice?
Minced pork is the most traditional protein used in Thai pad kra pao, although chicken, beef, seafood and pork belly variations are also common.
Why is basil rice served with a fried egg?
The crispy fried egg provides richness and texture. The runny yolk helps coat the rice and balances the spicy, savoury flavours of the basil stir-fry.
Is basil rice supposed to be spicy?
Yes. Authentic Thai basil rice usually contains chillies and has a noticeable level of heat. Many Singapore restaurants allow diners to customise spice levels.
What type of basil is used?
Traditional pad kra pao uses Thai holy basil rather than Italian basil. Holy basil has a stronger, more peppery and aromatic flavour that defines the dish.
Final Thoughts
Basil rice may appear simple, but the best versions deliver a remarkable combination of spice, fragrance, umami and texture. For most diners, Basil King currently offers the most focused and satisfying basil rice experience in Singapore, while restaurants such as Siam Smith, ChilChil and NangLen provide excellent restaurant-quality alternatives.
Whether you prefer your basil rice fiery hot or mildly savoury, there has never been a better time to explore Singapore’s growing obsession with this Thai street food classic.
