Malay food, which is typically found in halal-certified establishments, is characterised by intense flavours and spices that reflect traditional Southeast Asian palates. One can expect the rich sweetness of coconut milk and gula melaka (palm sugar) in desserts, and the spicy zing of sambal (chilli paste) on a plate of Nasi Lemak.

These days, halal restaurants and cafes incorporate culinary influences from around the globe for an array of dining options spanning a spectrum of tastes; these can be found in hawker stalls and halal fine dining restaurants alike.

As you roam the streets in Singapore, it won't be long before the seductive aroma of spices leads you to a restaurant or hawker stall with a selection of tempting halal fare. Halal-certified establishments in Singapore can be easily recognised by spotting a certificate awarded by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS). These typically include the authority's distinctive logo, the name of the restaurant or hawker stall, and their address. With this certification, you can be assured that the food has been prepared correctly according to Islamic laws.

While some food outlets and stalls don't have halal certification, they may display a sign indicating ‘no pork, no lard". This does not guarantee that the food is Halal as the preparation process hasn't been checked and regulated. MUIS advises Muslim consumers to be aware of this and exercise caution and discretion before dining at these restaurants.

You don’t have to go far to discover something irresistible to eat in Singapore, but your hunt for the best halal restaurants and treats should begin in Kampong Glam. One of the Lion City’s oldest neighbourhoods, Kampong Glam is a bright and bustling area where tradition and trends blend seamlessly into a feast for all senses. Wander along the brimming streets and soak in the energetic atmosphere as you discover extraordinary mosques, gift shops, and markets selling ornate trinkets and dazzling materials.

As a beloved area for Singapore’s Muslim community, Kampong Glam is a landmark spot for food and drink enthusiasts. Beyond the retail stores and stalls, you will find a plethora of halal-certified restaurants serving an incredible variety of Indian, Indonesian, Turkish, Lebanese, and other cuisines to suit all tastes.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Beanstro

Decked out with a casually chic interior, halal café Beanstro is located next to the stunning Rain Oculus. This unique art installation, which doubles as a skylight, collects water at the top level which falls two storeys down every hour. The water flows into the indoor canal that winds through The Shoppes.

Sip on an espresso or a floral fruit tea as you indulge in a halal breakfast, available throughout the day. Beanstro also serves a wide range of savoury and sweet treats perfect for a halal brunch. Choose from mouth-watering Western favourites like pasta, burgers, and sandwiches, or feed your sweet tooth with freshly baked cakes, pastries and croissants.

Beanstro is located at The Shoppes, #B2-20.

So Pho

So Pho brings you a taste of traditional Vietnamese street food in a modern setting that charms with its welcoming ambience filled with warm lighting and lush foliage. Their classic Vietnamese noodle dish boasts a complex blend of flavours that stimulates your taste buds with tangy, aromatic notes. Flavoured with cinnamon, star anise, and ginger, the broth is both nutritious and addictively delicious.

Besides Pho, the restaurant also serves popular traditional bites to satisfy your cravings for Vietnamese food. Grab a crunchy Bahn Mi along with classic Vietnamese snacks like Fried Spring Rolls, Crispy Fried Oysters, or Chestnut Meatballs.

So Pho is located at The Shoppes, #01-03/04.