Cendol Geylang Serai: $2 traditional cendol with 50 years of history in Geylang Serai Market

Inflation is the bane of most Singaporean’s existence, regardless of whether it’s affecting food prices or GST. So, it is a complete surprise that Cendol Geylang Serai in Geylang Serai Market still sells authentic Indonesian cendol at just S$2!

Indonesian cendol is slightly different from its Singaporean counterpart, the latter being what most of us are more familiar with. Whilst Singapore’s version has an array of colourful ingredients, the one in Indonesia only comprises 3 main components — green jelly, coconut milk and gula melaka.

The vast space of Geylang Serai Market hides the quaint stall of Cendol Geylang Serai. Despite having only 2 items on the menu, this stall is quite the hot spot here. You can actually spot that light blue bowl the stall uses on almost every table, trademarking its popularity. 

Auntie’s preparation is brisk with practised speed, ladling over some of that liquid gold (aka coconut milk). So, I would not be too anxious of the long line if I were you, as service here is incredibly fast. The popularity is to be expected, considering that this dish had maintained its authenticity since 1952, in turn generating a steady cycle of frequenters.

Having walked past this market several times, I was pleasantly surprised at how colossal-sized the interior was. With an airy, open atmosphere, Geylang Serai Market makes for a windy dining experience.

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You can observe that many folks do their shopping at the wet market downstairs before heading upstairs for a bite. No doubt convenient, but a point to note would be that the smell does travel upwards.

What I tried at Cendol Geylang Serai

Of course, just like any other Singaporean, I am passionate about affordability! You will definitely get that here, with each bowl of Cendol at just S$2. That’s to say that the portion will not be a lot, but we indeed get what we pay for. 

To my surprise, each spoonful was more milky than sweet, which I appreciated. Despite my complete sweet-tooth personality, the coconut milk gave a balance to the 2 other sweet components.

I savoured each hint of gula melaka in the milky ‘broth’, almost craving this smoky flavour in a drink. Perhaps, that’s why the Cendol Geylang Serai also offers Cendol in Cup (S$3). Though, I wish that there had been more gula melaka than that small splash given.

Uniquely, Cendol Geylang Serai’s Cendol had a more liquid form rather than being an icy dessert. As someone who enjoys the lack of waiting time, I did not mind the soup-like form too much. With tiny chunks of ice, the dessert was still cool and refreshing to enjoy!

Did you know that this stall’s green cendol strands are made in-house? Made with rice flour, these jellies were on the softer side, being almost like an overcooked noodle in terms of texture.

For the folks who prefer a softer bite, this cendol will definitely be your go-to. What I loved most was that the pandan taste was more evident, adding a sweet grassy flavour.

Curious ol’ me was intrigued with the plethora of colours belonging to the Dadih Pudding (S$1), and tried the Grape flavour. A surprising factor was the texture, which was light and airy, almost like a beancurd. 

Flavour-wise, it had a light hint of the classic artificial grape taste. I did wish it was a tad stronger, as I felt that the pudding was rather bland. Perhaps I will try its stronger-tasting friends like Chocolate Milo the next time round.

Final thoughts

I felt elated, having found a hidden gem so close to me! Although folks from far away may not come here just for this, those living in the East may because of the convenience. Refreshing with a mild sweetness, this Cendol spot will definitely see me very soon.

If you are planning on stopping by, be sure to try the Soya Beancurd that is said to be the ‘One and Only Muslim-made’ one in Singapore! It sells out rather quickly, so may the fastest hands win. 

Expected damage: S$2 – S$3.50 per pax

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