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No, this is not the prolific influencer’s first venture. Yes, his neighbour is actually a familiar Singaporean actor.
Jointly opened by Simonboy (Simon Khung), Peter Yu and business partner, Winson Ng, SingaBola at Yishun Industrial Park made its grand debut on 2 Jun and has seen the likes of celebrity and influencer kakis such as Jack Neo, Dawn Yeoh, NBCB’s Tommy, Henry Thia (Hui Ge) and Mayiduo patronising the newly-opened kopitiam store.
Eh, but why chicken rice? Simon tells us why: “I got to know that his (Peter Yu’s) favourite is chicken rice, and my favourite is also chicken rice!” HAHAH. Wanting to deviate away from “trendy food”, he added that he wants to sell a timeless and staple dish that can be enjoyed by all ages.
“每个人都会吃鸡饭 (Everyone knows how to eat chicken rice)!” the energetic influencer exclaimed. I guess that is clear enough. Nevertheless, this is not your ordinary chicken rice store either.
It’s a soul-stirring one. As part of their Gift-A-Meal initiative, SingaBola is now distributing 500 plates of chicken rice to Senior Citizens and Blue CHAS Cardholders. According to Simon, “If you donate a meal, we will pledge another.” This therefore accounts to 2 free meals per donation.
Meanwhile, those who work in the first location’s industrial area are entitled to a S$0.50 discount!
There is “definitely” more to come.
“I believe that if we are doing good, then the more we have to do good,” he continued. Oh, all customers can freely help themselves to 3 Types of Refillable Soups – ABC Soup, Old Cucumber Soup and Peanut Soup too. My favs…Tempting sia.
What’s in store? Be sure to catch their Singapura Chicken Rice Ball (S$6.50), which features a hard boiled egg and 75% chicken meat wrapped in chicken rice, then deep-fried to perfection. Yielding a crispy golden exterior and retaining a moist texture within, this is a mouth-watering treat that is great for kids (and yourself).
Of course, Roasted Chicken Rice (S$4.50/ S$6.50) and Steamed Chicken Rice (S$4.50/ S$6.50) can’t be missed. Boasting a generous portion of fragrant chicken rice accompanied by succulent pieces of chicken, this classic dish is as comforting as it gets. Pair it with some soup for the ultimate experience!
Aside from Chicken Rice, SingaBola also offers alternatives that include Chicken Char Siew Rice (S$4.50), Chicken Hor Fun (S$4.50) and Curry Chicken Mee (S$5.50). You may opt for Sides like Xiao Bai Cai in Oyster Sauce (S$3) or Thai Fried Beancurd (S$4) to complete your meal.
“Wah, you want to do F&B ah? It’s very difficult.” Simon’s decision to step into the competitive food industry was met with scepticism from his loved ones (they still supported him ATW). To ensure that his staff are not facing any issues, he makes long visits to the store despite his hectic schedule. That isn’t the only challenge.
Here’s something I really respect. Being a public figure for quite a while, he is strong-minded about receiving negative comments. “As a social media personality, 不管你做好做不好, 都有人讲你的 (even if you did well or not, there will be people talking about you),” Simonboy shared. Regardless, he accepts it as constructive criticism for further improvement.
After my conversation with Simon though, there was more to him beyond his beng facade. Back to “why he opened SingaBola with his neighbour”, as they shared similar backgrounds, Peter was a strong motivation for Simon to overcome his addictions. Thus, Simon decided to start something with the man he has always looked up to.
And surprise, SingBola is planning to open a second stall at Choa Chu Kang. “You don’t need to go work already,” Simon said with a laugh. As a Westie, I may have to agree.
