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On 18 Jan 2025, the Facebook page of Da Po Hainanese Chicken Rice & Curry Chicken Noodles 大坡海南鸡饭咖喱鸡面 published a post announcing that the founder, Mr Thien Chor Meng, had peacefully passed on.
Established in 1987, Da Po Hainanese Chicken Rice & Curry Chicken Noodles is located in the basement of Golden Mile Food Centre, and the front of the stall is plastered with various accolades and media shout-outs. With a Michelin guide listing under its belt, it’s clearly a well-loved stall and sees a steady stream of customers lining up to get a taste of either their signature curry chicken noodles, or Hainanese chicken rice.
They are also the winner of the Outstanding Hawker Mentor Award in 2024 for their work in nurturing the next generation of hawkers.
The curry gravy for their curry chicken noodles is described as fragrant and creamy, while still being light enough to be extremely drinkable. It’s also not extremely spicy, so those who don’t have a high spice tolerance are also able to enjoy it. Crushed peanuts and dried pig skin are also added to the gravy, adding multiple layers of texture and flavour.
The Hainanese chicken rice is no slouch, either. Da Po’s chicken meat is extremely silky and tender, and their poached chicken especially is probably some of the best in Golden Mile.
Both branches of Da Po, including the one located in Tanglin Halt Market, will be closed for the next few days during the period of the wake. The stalls are currently being run by the 2nd generation, with the 2nd son at the helm.
For those who wish to attend Mr Thien’s wake to pay their respects from now until 22 Jan 2025, the address is as follows:
50A Commonwealth Drive, Singapore 142050
Wedang: Shiok mee soto & addictive gado gado from $4.50 at Golden Mile Food Centre
