Oldest stall at Tanjong Pagar Food Centre, Xiang Xiang Nasi Lemak, closes permanently

I’ve always had a fondness for stalls that retain the nostalgia in their foods. 香香哪唏嚕嗎 Nasi Lemak, informally named “Xiang Xiang Nasi Lemak“, did a great job at that for serving traditional nasi lemak at Tanjong Pagar Plaza Market and Food Centre.

Unfortunately, I’ll be the bearer of sad news that Xiang Xiang Nasi Lemak has officially ceased its operations.

One might know Xiang Xiang Nasi Lemak as the oldest stall at Tanjong Pagar Plaza Market and Food Centre. The hawker centre opened in 1977 and did not have a nasi lemak stall then, giving Xiang Xiang Nasi Lemak the perfect opportunity to join them. The stall was helmed by a friendly elderly couple, Mr. and Mrs. Ho, who would usually greet you with a wide smile.

Notoriously known to serve “one of the best nasi lemak’s in Singapore“, this stall was so popular that you’d have to join the queue early if you’re looking to purchase a pack of this bad boy.

However, they posted a statement on Google, stating that they will be “officially closed for business.” The couple decided to pursue retirement, and thanked everyone for the support the past several years.

New in town: Messy Nasi Lemak — Ex-hotel chef selling delicious traditional nasi lemak & ramen in Ubi

Like the saying goes, all good things come to an end, but Xiang Xiang Nasi Lemak left on an optimistic note, saying that if they were able to serve us again, they would definitely update on their social pages.

If you’re lucky, you might’ve been able to try out a plate of their pandan nasi lemak. The prices start from S$3.50, but might differ based on the ingredients that you pick, such as fried chicken wings, cutlets and fried eggs. Have I mentioned how they make their own ikan bilis? Considering how wallet-friendly they are, it is no wonder how they got so popular.

It’s a no-brainer that many people are going to miss their delicious fare. Some netizens even said that they wished they visited “one last time [before they closed]”. 

With that being said, I wish the old couple a happy retirement. Fingers crossed that the 2nd-generation takes over! It’s sad to see heritage hawker stalls like these close for good.

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