For anyone living in the East, Tampines Mall is a trusty spot that never disappoints, especially when it comes to food. Like many malls in Singapore, you will find plenty of familiar chain restaurants here, but what keeps me coming back is the sheer variety of options available. Whether you are in the mood for a quick bite, a comforting meal, or something a little more indulgent, Tampines Mall has it all under one roof. If you are looking for what to eat at Tampines Mall, here are my favorite restaurants and eateries that I always return to.
1. Legendary Hong Kong
A new addition to Tampines Mall and already one of my top go-to restaurants. Stepping inside feels just like a cha chaan teng in Hong Kong with its signature tiles and nostalgic furniture.
What to Order
My personal favorites are the cart noodles and the watercress honey with lemon. What I love about the cart noodles is the freedom to mix and match. You can choose from 22 types of toppings and 6 kinds of noodles to create your own perfect bowl. The portions are generous and every bowl feels hearty and satisfying.
As for the watercress honey, I have tried many in Hong Kong, some good and some completely tasteless. The one here is easily one of the better versions I have had. Adding lemon makes it even more refreshing, so I definitely recommend going for the lemon version.
Pro Tip
Visit during breakfast or lunch if you want the full experience, as their roasted meats are often sold out by dinner.
2. Genki Sushi
Whenever I am craving sushi, Genki Sushi is always my first choice. It hardly needs any introduction as it is one of Singaporeans’ favorite Japanese restaurants. Expect long queues during mealtimes, which is a good sign that the food is worth it.
What to Order
My personal picks include the akaebi garlic butter, salmon belly, jumbo kani mentai, and okonomiyaki skewer. Each dish is packed with flavor and freshness, making it hard to stop at just one plate.
Pro Tip
Expect queues during peak hours, especially lunch and dinner. If you can, go slightly earlier or later to avoid the wait and enjoy your sushi at a more relaxed pace.
3. Express Teppan-Yaki
If you’re in the mood for a sizzling, interactive dining experience, Express Teppan-Yaki at Tampines Mall is a solid choice. This eatery offers a Taiwanese-style teppanyaki experience where chefs prepare your meal right before your eyes on a hot griddle.
Express Teppan-Yaki has recently relocated to a larger space just behind its previous location within Tampines Mall. This move provides a more comfortable and spacious dining environment for diners.
What to Order
My usual choice is the Set C Combo, which features a mix of proteins like fish, squid, scallop, oyster, and pork. Each set comes with rice, soup, bean sprouts, and vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal. For a more budget-friendly option, the Garlic Mushroom Set is still the cheapest at $10.50 and is packed with flavor.
Pro Tip
This spot can get busy during lunch and dinner, so plan ahead if you prefer a quieter meal. Visiting slightly earlier or later than peak hours usually means shorter wait times.
4. Nando’s
My first encounter with Nando’s was in Australia, and I was thrilled when they opened in Singapore. The Tampines Mall outlet offers a vibrant atmosphere and the signature flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken that fans rave about. You can choose from multiple heat levels, ranging from the mild Lemon & Herb to the fiery Extra Hot, so there is something to suit every palate.
What to Order
The highlight here is, of course, the flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, marinated for 24 hours and packed with flavor. Pair it with some of their delicious sides like PERi-PERi seasoned chips or a refreshing coleslaw to complete your meal. For something a little different, try one of their PERi-PERi bowls, such as the PERi-Honey Chicken Thigh Bowl, which combines honey yuzu chicken thighs with tasty accompaniments like fresh peppers and edamame corn salsa.
Pro Tip
Nando’s offers a bottomless drink option, allowing you to enjoy unlimited refills. It’s a great way to cool down if you opt for the spicier dishes. Additionally, consider downloading the Nando’s app for exclusive promotions and rewards.
5. Kopitiam
Kopitiam at Tampines Mall is a vibrant food court that brings together a wide variety of local and regional dishes, making it a go-to spot for both quick bites and hearty meals. If you want a more detailed guide, check out my dedicated article with Kopitiam stall recommendations for Tampines Mall.
What to Order
Some of my top picks at Kopitiam include Koo Kee Yong Tow Foo Mee, known for its flavorful yong tau foo and springy noodles, HJH Maimunah Mini, which serves up authentic Malay and Indonesian dishes like ayam bakar and beef rendang, and Riverside Indonesia BBQ, where you can enjoy grilled chicken, fish, and other Indonesian favorites with rice and curry vegetables. These stalls give you a good mix of flavors and are consistently popular among locals.
Pro Tip
Make your meal go further by using the FairPrice Group app to enjoy a 10% discount at Kopitiam. Some stalls also offer special promotions for Pioneer and Merdeka cardholders, so it’s worth checking before you order.
6. Lola’s
Lola’s Café has long been a beloved brunch destination in Singapore, and its expansion to Tampines Mall brings its signature comfort food and cozy ambiance to the East. The café is an external two-storey building to the right of the mall entrance, opposite Century Square, offering a spacious and stylish setting perfect for casual meals or brunch dates.
What to Order
The Tampines Mall outlet features some exclusive dishes you won’t find at other locations, including the Belgian Chocolate Soft Serve and Roasted Rosemary and Lemon Chicken. Other must-tries include the Tater Tots, Honey Paprika Crispy Wings, and Duck Leg Confit, which is hearty and full of flavor. These dishes showcase Lola’s signature blend of comforting, indulgent flavors and make for a satisfying meal.
Pro Tip
For a great deal, try the weekday 3-course lunch set available from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It includes one starter, one main course, and one dessert for $26++, making it a perfect way to sample Lola’s offerings without breaking the bank.
7. Seorae Jib
This outlet at Tampines Mall used to be Bulgogi Syo, but it has since changed concepts to Seorae Jib. While they unfortunately removed my personal favorite, the Seafood Jjigae, the new menu still has plenty to enjoy, especially for Korean BBQ lovers.
What to Order
Their signature Galmaegisal (pork skirt) is a must-try. Tender, flavorful, and perfectly grilled, it’s the highlight of the menu and keeps me coming back. Pair it with their free-flow side dishes and lettuce for a complete and satisfying Korean BBQ experience. Another must-order is the Seafood Pancake, crispy on the outside and packed with fresh seafood, making it a perfect complement to the grilled meats.
Pro Tip
If you’re sensitive to smoke, you can request the staff to BBQ your meat at the next table during quieter periods. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious grilled meats without getting overwhelmed by the smoke.
Final Word
Tampines Mall truly has something for every craving, whether you are in the mood for a quick bite or a more leisurely meal. I will continue updating this guide whenever I discover new options or return to old favorites, so be sure to check back for the latest recommendations.
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