Why a Fish Head Steamboat is the Perfect Rainy‑Day Pick
When the weather turns gray and the sky pours, there’s no excuse to skip a steaming, savory feast. If you’ve only ever tried the usual hot pots from the big chains, it’s time to switch things up and dive into the heart‑warming world of fish head steamboat.
What Makes It Special
Picture a huge copper pot bubbling over a charcoal flame, filled with a rich, silky broth that’s been seasoned to perfection. Inside that steaming cauldron, you’ll find:
- A whole fish head – because why not let the whole animal be part of the ritual?
- Crunchy fried yams that add a sweet twist
- Fresh Chinese cabbage and a handful of color‑ful veggies for that satisfying crunch
It’s basically the ultimate “one‑pot wonder” that brings the entire family or your friends together for a shared dinner that’s as affordable as it is delicious.
Where to Get Your Fish Head Steamboat
Singapore is brimming with fishing stalls and food hawkers that serve up this local delicacy. Below are ten neighborhoods and markets where you can savor the fish head steamboat experience without blowing your wallet:
1. Tiong Bahru Food Alley
2. Bukit Timah Galleria
3. East Coast Market
4. Clementi Food Hub
5. Yishun Dining Spot
6. Geylang Street Corner
7. Tengah Food Village
8. Novena Gourmet Market
9. Hougang Plaza
10. Chinatown Ho Chi Minh
All of these places are known for their zi char stalls—meaning you can mix and match dishes to satisfy sweet, salty, and spicy cravings—all in one go and for a price that won’t break the bank.
Quick Tips for a Masterful Steamboat Experience
- Choose a fresh fish head – the fresher, the better the broth.
- Don’t forget to pick up a good, crispy noodle base to soak up all those flavors.
- Pair the steamboat with a side of fermented tofu for a kick of umami.
- Drink a glass of plain hot water or a light beer – the best ways to stay hydrated and enjoy the flavors.
So next time it’s drizzling outside, slip into one of those spots, set the pot on fire, and let the rice in all that comforting steam over a fresh, flavorful fish head. Good food, good company, and good vibes – who could ask for more?
Nan Hwa Chong fish head steamboat
Nan Hwa Chong: Stirring Up Fish Head Steamboats Since 1927!
Ever wondered where the legendary fish head steamboat vibes began? Look no further than Nan Hwa Chong, the culinary hotspot that’s been flipping tasty brunch flakes for nearly a century. Its reputation? Built on generations of loyal fans, a masterful menu, and that unforgettable steam‑kissed aroma.
Menu Highlights: Four Fish, Infinite Flavor
- Pomfret – Delicate flesh that melts in your mouth, priced from $22.
- Song Fish – The bold enthusiast for the adventurous palate.
- Snapper – Classic favorite, always a crowd‑pleaser.
- Grouper – Rich texture that rivals the best of the sea.
Why It’s a Must‑Visit
From the sizzling first chop to the last lingering aftertaste, every bite at Nan Hwa Chong carries stories of family feasts, school trips, and countless Sunday treat sessions. Think of it as a culinary time‑machine: one spoonful, and you’re whisked back to simpler, grille‑y days.
Location & Hours
Pull up the GPS, head straight to 812 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198779, and let the steam do its magic. Open 24/7 – because good food never sleeps.
Hai Chang fish head steamboat
While the Tampines Round Market is mostly quiet and dark at night, Hai Chang is bustling as it peddles its fish head steamboat.
The family-owned business has been serving the dish since 2006. You have three fishes to choose from — pomfret, red snapper and red grouper — with prices starting from $20.
137A Tampines St. 11, #01-03 Tampines Round Market & Food Centre, Singapore 522137
Tian Wai Tian
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Since its founding in 1983, Tian Wai Tian has expanded to four stores around Singapore — a testament to the popularity of its fish head steamboat.
You have three fishes to choose from — pomfret, song fish and grouper — with prices starting from $25.
Tian Wai Tian has multiple locations in Singapore.
Ah Orh Teochew fish head steamboat
Ah Orh Seafood: A Classic Bite in Bedok
Historical Roots
Ah Orh Seafood Restaurant, settled in Bukit Merah since 1919, is one of Singapore’s oldest culinary gems. Picture a bustling noodle shop from the old days, but instead of ramen, it’s all about flavorful fish head steamboat that makes the taste buds do a happy dance. The nostalgia of a century’s worth of recipes is baked into every pot that boils on the stove.
The Bedok Steamboat
The Bedok outlet is basically the brand’s “fish‑head playground.” If you’re after a hearty steamboat, you’ve got two star players to pick from:
- Pomfret – tender, a touch sweet, and melts in your mouth.
- Grouper – firmer, a classic “big‑bite” flavor that satisfies the toughest cravings.
Both starters sit at a starting price of $48, but that’s just the beginning. After you dive in, you’ll toss fresh veggies and a dash of spicy sambal, turning the pot into a communal feast that’s both calorie‑rich and mind‑grabbing.
Location & Drop‑In
Drop by for a steam‑powered culinary adventure:
- Location: 739 Bedok Reservoir Rd, Reservoir Village, Singapore 470739
- Hours: Open daily from 10:30 AM to midnight – perfect for late‑night cravings!
Here’s the deal: once you’ve tasted the steam‑broiled superstars of Ah Orh’s menu, you’ll never look back to the usual fish and chips. The Bedok steamboat is a living testament to Singapore’s enduring love affair with seafood. Bon appétit!
Deli (Jie) fish head steamboat
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Deli (Jie) is one of two stalls peddling fish head steamboat in Whampoa Market, with its opening hours throughout the day.
You have four fishes to choose from — pomfret, red grouper, red snapper and batang — with prices starting from $25.
90 Whampoa Dr, #01-70 Whampoa Makan Place, Singapore 320090
Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan
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Xin Heng Feng Guo Tiao Tan is the other fish head steamboat located in Whampoa Makan Place, with its opening hours starting from 5pm to 9.30pm.
You have four fishes to choose from — pomfret, song fish, snapper and batang — with prices starting from $25.
91 Whampoa Dr, #01-14/15 Whampoa Makan Place, Singapore 320091
Whampoa Keng fish head steamboat
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Whampoa Keng was previously located in Whampoa Market before its current and only location along Balestier Road. Whampoa Keng’s moreish broth is said to be made with over 30 ingredients.
You have three fishes to choose from — pomfret, red garoupa and bardan — with prices starting from $25.
556 Balestier Rd, Singapore 329872
Chang Long fish head steamboat
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Chang Long is located at a food court just a short walk from the famous Bedok 85 Food Centre.
But don’t be fooled by its humble appearances, Chang Long pulls crowds with its fish head steamboat.
You have three fishes to choose from — pomfret, red grouper and snapper — with prices starting from $30.
122 Bedok North Street 2, #01-140, Singapore 460122
Xin Yuan Ji
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Located in Bugis just opposite Bugis Junction, Xin Yuan Ji is already famous for its fish soup.
So it shouldn’t be a surprise that the brand also serves up the piping hot and equally comforting fish head steamboat. You have two fishes to choose from — red snapper (head or meat) and red garoupa — with prices starting from $43.80.
31 Tan Quee Lan St, #01-01, Singapore 188117
Hualong fish head steamboat
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While most of the entrants in this list seem to be located on the eastern side of the island, Hualong bucks the trend with its outlets in Ang Mo Kio and Bukit Batok.
You have three fishes to choose from — pomfret, red grouper and red snapper — with prices starting from $28.80.
347 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, #01-2142 ST 31 Coffee House, Singapore 560347 and 155 Bukit Batok Street 11, #01-324 Bukit Batok West Shopping Centre, Singapore 650155
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This article was first published in The Singapore Women’s Weekly.
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