Temasek

Situated in two separate rooms diagonally opposite each other either side of a shopping arcade, this place is incredibly popular, even hectic. Groups of friends manage to find each other despite the confusing layout and then get on with the business of ordering up a storm. Service is fast, so it’s popular with the lunchtime crowd and the decor is, well, not what you come for. The laksas, however, are legendary, and customers choose the noodles they want added. The seafood version $16.80 is particularly good. Tamer types will love the honey and chicken rice $12 and the tender beef rendang $17 is everything we love about nonya food: dark, complex and spicy. Finish with chendol, a colourful shaved ice, syrup and bean concoction.