18 best bak kut teh spots in Singapore to warm up your soul [Oct 2024 update]

“For bak kut teh, do you prefer the pepper version or the herbal kind?” If you’re a Singaporean like me, I’m sure you’ve been asked this question at least once in your life. This crowd-favourite Chinese broth, found along the streets of Singapore and Malaysia, is a heartwarming dish craved by many on rainy days.

The soup is slowly simmered for hours with meaty pork ribs, garlic, pepper, and various herbs. Despite its English translation of ‘meat bone tea’, this dish does not actually contain tea— we’ve been deceived!

Whether you prefer our peppery rendition or the herbal variety served just across the causeway, here are 18 best bak kut teh spots in Singapore to warm up your soul.

1. Ge Bi Lao Wang Bak Kut Teh

If Malaysian-style herbal bak kut teh is your jam, then Ge Bi Lao Wang Bak Kut Teh is a must-visit. This kopitiam stall located at 121 Geylang East Central is run by a friend duo, Sky and Hang, who hail from Johor Bahru.

When I inquired about the style of their bak kut teh, Sky explained that it follows the JB-style rather than the Klang variety.

The Bak Kut Teh (S$7.50) is a well-balanced combination of savoury and herbal notes, avoiding the bitterness that sometimes overwhelms the flavour in other establishments. Sky shared that the soup is simmered for over 4 hours.

The meat was unbelievably tender, practically melting in my mouth— don’t even get me started. Now, all you have to do is order a bowl of Yam Rice (S$1), and you’re all set.

The Dry Bak Kut Teh (S$8.50) has loads of shredded dried cuttlefish which injects a robust umami flavour. The bed of pork ribs and pork belly is garnished with lady’s finger and dried chillies. The delectable meat has a caramelised, sweet and savoury combination.

You can also find Pork Trotter (S$7.50), Dark Sauce Pork Belly (S$5.50) and even indulge in some additional sides like You Tiao (S$1.30) and Salted Vegetable (S$2).

Order delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

121 Geylang East Central, #01-90, Singapore 380121
Daily: 11am – 8.30pm
Facebook

2. Tea Inn Bak Kut Teh

Tea Inn Bak Kut Teh, situated at 93 Toa Payoh Lorong 4 Market & Food Centre, is run by 33-year-old Jenere, who has 7 years of experience in the F&B industry. Prior to his current venture, he worked for 4 years at a BBQ seafood hot plate joint in Yishun. A true soup enthusiast, Jenere embarked on his own journey, introducing delectable claypot herbal bak kut teh to delighted customers.

The Claypot Herbal Bak Kut Teh (S$6.50) is served piping hot in a claypot with thick chunks of fork-tender pork ribs, enoki mushrooms, and paper-thin pieces of bean curd skin swimming in a herbal broth.

The menu also has Braised Pork Rice (S$4) which combines succulent chunks of pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and plain rice. All of that goodness is then smothered in rich, flavourful braised sauce, topped off with a delightful sprinkling of crispy fried shallots— perfection in a bowl!

93 Lorong 4 Toa Payoh, #01-33 , Singapore 310093
+65 9649 4175
Tue to Sun: 8am – 1.30pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook

3. Pin Xiang Bak Kut Teh

Tucked away in Kim San Leng Food Centre at 134 Geylang East Avenue 1 lies Pin Xiang Bak Kut Teh, which serves authentic Malaysian-style Claypot Bak Kut Teh. The owners, Xiong and Heng, were formerly hotel chefs before they became business partners.

The venture began when Heng decided to cook his late father’s recipe for his colleagues. After tasting it, Xiong felt like he was transported to Malaysia and that the dish truly possessed flavours from across the causeway. The same recipe of his late father, who used to run a humble bak kut teh stall in Ipoh, is used here.

The Bak Kut Teh Soup comes in 2 sizes: S$8 for small and S$16 for large. Packed to the brim, the claypot contains tofu, enoki mushrooms, tofu skin, pork belly, cabbage and pork ribs. The herbal broth contains beautiful notes of Chinese herbs that dance lightly on your taste buds. The meat is tender and flakes apart delicately.

For those who enjoy the Dry Bak Kut Teh (S$10), the rich and lip-smacking sauce envelops the pork ribs, scallions, onions, pork belly slices and okra. Thinly-sliced cuttlefish is then added on top for a strong punch of umami-ness.

Order delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

134 Geylang East Avenue 1, #01-229, Singapore 380134
+65 8209 6690
Tue to Sun: 10am – 8pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram

4. Legendary Bak Kut Teh 

With its original outlet on Rangoon Road and a new branch on South Bridge Road which opened in 2021, Legendary Bak Kut Teh is renowned among both Singaporeans and tourists. Adorned with pictures of local and overseas celebrities, the stall has rightfully earned its place on the list.

It has been said that Taiwanese singer, Jay Chou enjoyed his bowl of Bak Kut Teh (S$8.50) so much the first time he ate it, that he ordered for a takeaway the very next day.

The soup, naturally infused with the sweetness of pork juices, culminates in a delightful peppery kick. Furthermore, the soup is available in a free-flow manner, allowing you to indulge as much as you desire. The tender meat slices, boasting a delectable marbling of fats, become even more enjoyable when dipped in the accompanying chilli sauce.

The menu also features Slice Lean Meat Soup (S$9), Short Ribs (S$12.50), Long Ribs (S$13.50), and Legendary Bak Kut Teh Combo (S$10.50) which has a combination of prime and spare ribs.

When it comes to side dishes, the highly-recommended Home-made Ngoh Hiang (S$13/S$19.50) is a must-try, featuring delightful crunchy bits of water chestnut that add an extra layer of texture.

Order Delivery: Deliveroo

Refer to locations, contact numbers, and opening hours here.
Facebook | Instagram | Website

5. Outram Park Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha

If you’re yearning for a piping-hot bowl of comforting, peppery, and full-flavoured soup for supper, look no further than Outram Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha. This eatery has got you covered for all your spontaneous late-night cravings as it stays open until 11.30pm most days (except Mondays) for the Keppel Road outlet.

If you’re one who fancies bak kut teh to veer on the spicy side, then you should give the good ol’ Spare Ribs Soup (S$11.50) and Premium Spare Ribs (S$14.80) a go. The meat is tender and falls off easily from the bone.

To complement your meal, get dishes like the Chye Sim in Oyster Sauce (S$7/S$10) and Watercress Soup (S$7/S$10) for your daily dose of veggies. And for a dose of nourishment, try the Pig’s Liver Soup (S$9.50) or the Pig’s Kidney Soup (S$11.50).

If you’re in the mood for seafood, the Fresh Sliced Fish Soup (S$10.90/S$12.90/S$18.90) is a delightful option. With such a diverse range of dishes available, there’s something to satisfy every craving at Outram Park Ya Hua Rou Gu Cha.

Order Delivery: foodpanda

7 Keppel Road, PSA Tanjong Pagar Complex, #01-05/07, Singapore 089053
+65 6222 9610
Tue to Sat: 7am – 11pm
Sun: 7am – 10pm
Closed on Mon

593 Havelock Road, #04-01, Singapore 169641
+65 6235 7716
Tue to Thu & Sun: 11am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website

6. Ng Ah Sio Bak Kut Teh 

Since its relocation to Rangoon Road on 15 Mar 1988, Ng Ah Sio Bak Kut Teh has proudly served over a million bowls of this classic delicacy. The brand has become synonymous with delicious and authentic pork ribs soup.

If you’re an ardent enthusiast of robust and delightfully fiery broths, this is the place to be. Served with chilli, dark soy sauce and complemented by freshly-brewed kung fu tea, this dish represents a quintessentially Singaporean meal— simple, wholesome, and undeniably delicious.

Try the Premium Loin Ribs Soup (S$12.80), Superior Spare Ribs Soup (S$11.80) or Classic Pork Ribs Soup (S$9.80).

Indulge in the delightful Signature Teochew Braised Pig’s Trotter (S$6.80) and treat yourself to succulent, gelatinous mouthfuls of meat that offer a satisfying burst of collagen with every bite.

On weekdays from 11.30am to 2.30pm at both outlets, check out the Lunch Value Set (S$17.80) that comes with preserved vegetables, fried you tiao, Teochew braised onsen egg, steamed rice and a drink.

For a list of locations, contact numbers, and opening hours, click here.
Facebook | Instagram | Website

7. Leong Kee (Klang) Bak Kut Teh

Situated along Geylang Road is Leong Kee (Klang) Bak Kut Teh, a haven for authentic Klang-style bak kut teh enthusiasts.

The Dry Bak Kut Teh (S$11.80/S$19.80/S$31.80) is a true delight. Served sizzling hot, this dish offers a medley of flavours, combining shredded dried cuttlefish, lady’s finger slices, and dried chilli to create a perfect balance of saltiness, sweetness, savouriness, and spiciness.

The rich, intense nuances of the dark gravy perfectly complement the fork-tender pork ribs and fluffy white rice, resulting in an irresistible and satisfying meal.

For those who prefer the classic herbal Klang-style Bak Kut Teh experience, their regular version priced at S$8.80 won’t disappoint. With 7 different meat options to choose from, including kidney, pig tail, intestine, and the classic rib, there’s a variety to suit every preference.

As a regular at Leong Kee (Klang) Bak Kut Teh, I often visit with my jogging buddies, and I must say, the warm and comforting soup never ceases to refresh and revitalise me every time.

251 Geylang Road, Singapore 389309
+65 9380 1718
Daily: 11.30am – 11.30pm
Facebook

8. Sin Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh 

Since 1981, Sin Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh at Joo Chiat has been delighting customers with their own unique versions of bak kut teh. Their offerings feature succulent and tender pork ribs immersed in piping hot broth, all served up in a claypot for an authentic touch.

Over here, you can indulge in both the lip-smacking peppery style or the flavourful herbal version infused with a hint of dark sauce. Additionally, they provide a selection of complementary dishes to enhance your dining experience, ensuring a truly enjoyable and satisfying meal.

You can choose from a range of sizes for their Claypot Bak Koot Teh, starting from the Small (S$10), going all the way up to the X-Large (S$38), depending on the size of your party.

For those who prefer the herbal rendition, the Claypot Special Bak Kut Teh is a fantastic choice, available in different sizes (S$10/S$17/S$27/S$40). To complement your meal, you can also try the fragrant Sesame Oil Chicken (S$9) and Claypot Beancurd (S$8).

Order Delivery: Deliveroo

439 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427652
+65 6345 8754
Tue to Sun: 10am – 11.30pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Website

86 Lor Mee: $4 Bowls of delicious lor mee loaded with fried chicken cutlet, ebi prawns & ngoh hiang

9. Tuan Yuan Pork Ribs Soup

Tuan Yuan Pork Ribs Soup, a family-run restaurant since 1991, cultivates togetherness through its authentic Teochew bak kut teh, nestled in the heartland of Bukit Merah.

It offers a modern, air-conditioned setting, ensuring a comfortable and casual atmosphere for easy dining. The dining spot is incredibly spacious, providing ample seating options both indoors and outdoors.

This establishment has garnered high praise from many who consider it one of the best soups in Singapore. It is even regarded to outshine some of the more renowned chains.
Indulge in the delightful choice of Tuan Yuan Pork Ribs Soup at just S$10 or the Spare Ribs Soup at S$12. What’s even better is that you can customise the soup’s pepper level to your preference, and it’s refillable as well!

During the weekend, the restaurant can get quite busy, resulting in longer waiting times. To avoid any inconvenience, I recommend either downloading their app or making reservations by giving them a call. Westies, you know what to do to secure your spot!

Order Delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

Block 127, Kim Tian Road, #01-01, Singapore 160127
+65 6684 0123
Tue to Sun: 11am – 2.30pm & 5pm – 9.30pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website

10. Hoe Nam Bak Kut Teh

Don’t be deceived by the ‘River South Hoe Nam Prawn Noodle’ signboard, it’s actually where Hoe Nam Bak Kut Teh resides. With its open coffee shop-style seating, it retains a similar atmosphere to those who used to frequent the former prawn noodle flagship location.

The recipe for Hoe Nam Bak Kut Teh’s Spare Ribs (S$7) rou gu cha is somewhat of a mix of both styles. It possesses Teochew’s peppery base while also borrowing aspects of the Hokkien approach.

The broth packs a punch without overwhelming your senses, and possesses a lovely peppery fragrance. The meat is soft and falls off the bone with ease.

If you’re not particularly fond of soupy dishes, you can get the Claypot Bak Kut Teh (Dry) (S$13.90) instead. It’s braised to death in a robust thick dark gravy, together with dried cuttlefish strips, chilli, and lady’s finger.

31 Tai Thong Crescent, Singapore 347859
+65 6281 9293
Daily: 11am – 3pm & 5pm – 11pm
Facebook | Website

11. Ah Hak Bak Kut Teh

Located along 395 Balestier Road within Kai Juan kopitiam, Ah Hak Bak Kut Teh is an old-school establishment that has been operating for more than 3 decades. Once you step inside, the surrounding instantly transports you back to the 80s when things were much simpler.

Compared to the other bak kut teh businesses in the area, this establishment is less mainstream and deserves some recognition and a visit.

Focusing primarily on pepper-based bak kut teh, the soup is boiled and simmered for several hours with whole garlic cloves, herbs and spices. And the best part? They offer free refills for it!

You will never be disappointed with the classic Pork Ribs (S$7). Or if you enjoy innards, the Liver (S$6.50), Kidney (S$6.50) and Braised Small Intestines (S$6.50) are done exceptionally well.

To help cut down the richness, get the Shui Xian Cha (S$4.50), a strong Chinese tea that’s brewed in a traditional clay teapot and served with tiny cups— how nostalgic!

395 Balestier Road, Singapore 329799
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 12.30am
Sun: 7am – 4pm 

12. Ah Yen Bak Kut Teh

A new contender in Singapore’s BKT scene is Ah Yen Bak Kut Teh, nestled within 153 Brew Cafe at Tyrwhitt Road. The owner has over 20 years of experience honed at a renowned bak kut teh restaurant at Havelock Road. With loads of passion, he is dedicated to perfecting a beloved classic.

The robust broth is simmered for hours to extract the deep complex flavours of pork bones, herbs, and spices. The pork ribs are tender and succulent, pairing perfectly with the well-balanced soup.

Take your pick between the Prime Cut Rib (S$7.80 for 1 piece, S$14.90 for 2 pieces), Pork Rib (S$9.80) and Bak Kut (S$7.80). Ah Yen Bak Kut Teh also offers a variety of delectable sides such as freshly-fried You Tiao (S$1.50/S$2.80), Chilled Cucumber Salad (S$2.50/S$4), Steamed Fish Tofu (S$5.80) and Salted Vegetables (S$2.50/S$4).

The Silky Steamed Egg (S$4.80) here possesses a texture like chawanmushi. It is light and flavourful— a must-try! The Braised Pork Trotter (S$6/S$10.50) is also recommended.

If you’re a fish aficionado, the stall has a glass chiller where customers can select their desired fish and cut. Check out the range of Teochew Steamed Fish available such as Steamed Sea Bass with Glass Noodles & Lime (S$16.90) and Red Grouper (Market Price) and Threadfin Head (Market Price).

153 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207566
+65 8874 7863
Daily: 11am to 9.30pm

13. Founder Bak Kut Teh

No stranger to Singapore’s bak kut teh scene, Founder Bak Kut Teh has been serving up bowls of piping hot sweat-inducing Teochew-style pork rib soup for over 40 years. During my polytechnic days, I vividly recall my first encounter with BKT at their original outlet along Balestier Road.

165 Pork Rib Prawn Noodles: Ex-navy regular turned hawker sells creative Mala Prawn Kolo Mee

Stepping inside, I was greeted by their walls of fame, embellished with a multitude of photos featuring both local and international celebrities. Since then, they have experienced significant growth, expanding to 3 additional branches situated across Singapore.

The crowd-favourite is the Founder Bak Kut Teh (S$9.90), which comprises a long premium rib and 2 short ribs. Additionally, they offer the Premium Loin Ribs (S$12.80) and Premium Short Ribs (S$11.50) to cater to different preferences.

The menu also has side dishes like Braised Egg (S$1.30 per piece), You Tiao (S$2) and Braised Pig’s Intestine (S$8.80/S$12.80).

Order Delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

For a list of locations, contact numbers, and opening hours, click here.
Facebook | Instagram | Website

14. Joo Siah Bak Kut Teh 

For over 30 years, Joo Siah Bak Kut Teh has been serving Singaporeans its cherished heritage cuisine in Jurong. Continuing the tradition is Mr Ryan Chua, a 2nd-gen hawker and owner who has taken over from his father.

In 2015, the business moved from Yuhua Hawker Centre to a coffee shop just a few blocks away.

Made from a special family recipe using premium ingredients, its robust flavourful pork ribs soup, braised pork leg, and other signature delights have customers returning for more.

Indulge yourself by trying the extravagant Premium Loin Ribs Soup (S$11), the priciest item on the menu. Alternatively, they offer Pork Ribs Soup (S$7/S$10) as well as a selection of delectable braised dishes, including Braised Pork Belly (S$7/S$10).

If innards are your cup of tea, the Pig’s Kidney Soup (S$7/S$10) and Pig’s Intestine Soup (S$7/S$10) are worth a try. Pair them with a piping hot bowl of Plain Rice (S$0.70) or try it with the Plain Mee Sua (S$2).

Order Delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

Block 349 Jurong East Avenue 1, #01-1215, Singapore 600349
+65 9111 8129
Tue to Sat: 8am – 7.15pm
Sun: 8am – 3.30pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website

15. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh 

Song Fa Bak Kut Teh rose from humble beginnings as a pushcart stall along Johor Road back in 1969. Ever since, it has grown to 14 outlets in Singapore as well as other countries like Indonesia, China, Thailand and Taiwan. It has even been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand for 8 years— impressive!

Every stall’s interior captures the 1960s roadside dining ambience, epitomising its humble essence while guaranteeing an unwavering commitment to delivering authentic, Teochew bak kut teh flavours.

Song Fa Bak Kut Teh is beloved for its broth— a delightful symphony of clarity, peppery notes, and a hint of garlic. On fortunate occasions, their pork meat achieves an exquisite tenderness that effortlessly falls off the bone.

You can get the crowd-favourite Pork Ribs Soup (S$8.80/S$11.20) or indulge in the Prime Spare Ribs Soup (S$12.90). If you’re not a pork eater, don’t worry. There’s always options like Sliced Fish Soup (S$9.80) available.

Order Delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

For a list of locations and opening hours, click here.
Facebook | Instagram | Website

16. Feng Xiang Bak Kut Teh | Fried Porridge

If you’ve ever travelled to Klang, you’ll know that it’s the revered home of herbal bak kut teh. At Feng Xiang Bak Kut Teh | Fried Porridge, the broth is crafted with a selection of the finest herbs and ingredients, then simmered for hours to achieve an irresistible authentic flavour.  

The Herbal Bak Kut Teh Soup (S$8.50 for regular) is served in a claypot and features a delightful medley of pork ribs, tender pork slices, flavourful pig’s stomach, enoki mushrooms, bean curd skin, and crispy tau pok.

The Dry Bak Kut Teh (S$9.50 for regular) boasts succulent pieces of pork ribs and pig’s stomach which are stir-fried with dried chilli, okra, and fragrant dried cuttlefish, resulting in a tantalising combination of flavours and textures.

The Mixed Pork Organ Fried Porridge (S$7.50) is a delightful light-brownish congee filled with tender pork slices, dried cuttlefish, and an array of textures coming from a trio of pig’s intestines, stomach, and liver. 

The Vinegar Pig’s Trotter (S$7.50) features unctuous pieces of trotters which are fall-off-the-bone tender and a braised egg bathed in a rich, dark, and tangy vinegar-infused broth. If you’re afraid that it may be too acidic or sweet, don’t worry; the version over at Feng Xiang is calibrated perfectly.

Order delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

For a list of locations and opening hours, click here.
Facebook | Instagram | Website

17. Lau Ah Tee Bak Kut Teh 

If you’ve tried Lau Ah Tee’s Bak Kut Teh, you’ll notice its striking resemblance to Ng Ah Sio’s Bak Kut Teh. Located beneath a HDB flat kopitiam in Whampoa West, its unassuming location adds to the charm.

Here’s the backstory: Mr. Sim Choon Lian, also known as Lau Ah Tee, learned the beloved broth recipe from his uncle, Ng Mui Song, the founder of Ng Ah Sio Bak Kut Teh.

Using pork sourced directly from Indonesia, the broth is meticulously brewed using only 3 essential ingredients: water, garlic, and pepper. The remarkable outcome of this simple combination, yielding an exceptional stock, is truly stellar.

Indulge in the soft and tender Pork Ribs (S$8) and savour the well-braised Pork Intestines (S$7) that are free from any gamey odours. Additionally, you can explore other delectable options such as Salted Vegetables (S$2/S$4) and Bitter Gourd (S$3/S$5).

For those who enjoy seafood, satisfy your hunger pangs with the Steamed Fish (Seasonal Price) and La La (S$10).

Block 34 Whampoa West, #01-67, Singapore 330034
+65 8484 4334
Thu to Tue: 7am – 9pm
Wed: 7am – 3pm
Facebook | Instagram

18. Balestier Bak Kut Teh

Balestier Bak Kut Teh is a family business that embodies 3 generations of culinary mastery, thriving for 50 years as a beloved 24-hour restaurant on Balestier Road.

What distinguishes Balestier Bak Kut Teh from other Teochew-style joints is the use of actual whole blocks of bamboo sugarcane in their Classic Bak Kut Teh Soup (S$7). This unique addition, instead of rock sugar or sugarcane juice, complements the peppery broth and brings a perfect balance to its savoury richness.

The Mixed BKT (S$19.80) is served in a claypot and is meant to be shared between 2 to 3 pax. It showcases 5 pork delicacies (pork ribs, pig’s stomach, tail, kidney, and liver). To make your dish more atas, you can opt to add on Abalone (+S$8).

If you’re keen to try something unique, order the Mala BKT (S$19.80) for a unique fusion of flavours. If you’re dining in a large group, you can also relish in Red Glutinous Wine Chicken (S$6), Minced Pork Tofu (S$6.80) and Braised Trotters (S$6/S$8).

Order Delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo

365/369 Balestier Road, Singapore 329785
+65 6951 4798 / +65 8826 1365
Daily: 24 hours

8 Raffles Avenue, Gluttons Bay, #01-15M, Singapore 039802
Tue to Sun: 4pm – 11pm
Closed on Mon
Facebook | Instagram | Website

Zhu Zhu Zai: Ex-private dining chef sells lu rou fan & braised pork pizza from $3.80