Lau Pa Sat, Singapore - Lau Pa Sat Market in the day. Photo by SGXP.com
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Lau Pa Sat Singapore

4.4
·34k reviews·Singapore, Singapore

Historic Victorian hawker center with vibrant Satay Street, offering diverse local and international flavors.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings (7 PM onwards)

Satay Street comes alive!

CrowdHigh
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Lau Pa Sat, Singapore - Lau Pa Sat Market in the day. Photo by SGXP.com

Lau Pa Sat Singapore

Best Time

Evenings (7 PM onwards)

Satay Street comes alive!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Victorian hawker center with vibrant Satay Street, offering diverse local and international flavors.

4.4
(34k reviews)

"Satay Street at Lau Pa Sat offers an unforgettable dining experience amidst Singapore's skyscrapers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Satay Street Queues

Stalls 7 & 8 are popular for satay. Expect a wait, but locals say it's worth it for the experience.

💰 Satay Street Pricing

Can be pricier than other hawker centers, but the unique atmosphere justifies it for many.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Satay Street

Satay Street

Boon Tat Street (adjacent to Lau Pa Sat)

Experience an open-air feast of grilled skewers under the city lights. A truly unique Singaporean night market vibe.

TikTok+1
Victorian Architecture

Victorian Architecture

Lau Pa Sat building

Marvel at the stunning 19th-century octagonal structure, a historical gem in the heart of the financial district.

Instagram
Diverse Hawker Stalls

Diverse Hawker Stalls

Inside Lau Pa Sat

Sample a world of flavors, from local favorites like chili crab to international delights.

TikTok+1

Planning Your Visit

Embrace Satay Street's Evening Magic

From 7 PM, Boon Tat Street transforms into Satay Street, a vibrant open-air dining experience. While locals might debate its authenticity, the atmosphere amidst skyscrapers is unparalleled. Arrive early to snag a good spot and be prepared for potential queues at popular stalls. TikTok+1

Beyond Satay: Explore Diverse Flavors

While Satay Street is a must-see, Lau Pa Sat offers a vast array of local and international dishes. Don't shy away from other stalls for breakfast or lunch. Some Redditors rave about Champion Bolo's breakfast buns and Michelin-recognized fried kway teow. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Evenings (7 PM onwards)
Why
Satay Street comes alive!
Crowd
High
When
Mornings (before 10 AM)
Why
Quieter, good for breakfast
Crowd
Low
When
Lunchtime
Why
Busy with office workers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A MUST on your Singapore trip 🤤🍢⬇️ 📍Satay Street @ Lau Pa Sat #singaporefood #satay #singaporefoodie
@helloangelia
12.2K likes • 390.9K views

🎯 Satay Street Queues

Stalls 7 & 8 are popular for satay. Expect a wait, but locals say it's worth it for the experience. TikTokReddit

💰 Satay Street Pricing

Can be pricier than other hawker centers, but the unique atmosphere justifies it for many. TikTokReddit

MINI VLOG 🎥 Tara punta tayo sa Singapore Zoo 🐯 mamili ng pasalubong sa Chinatown 🛍️ at mag foodtrip sa Lau Pa Sat 😋 Book tickets to Singapore Zoo: https://bit.ly/singaporezootzn Use code WETHETZNKLOOK...
@wethetzn
5.8K likes • 94.2K views
Satay Street: the real night market runway. 🇸🇬🌆 #LauPaSat #Singapore #StreetPhotography #travel 09/08/2025
ferros_0201
178 likes • 0 views

☕ Breakfast Delights

Try Champion Bolo's spam & cheese bun or Kopi Kiosk for kaya toast and kopi. Reddit

🍽️ Beyond Satay

Don't miss Michelin-recognized Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow or Butter & Cream's egg tarts. Reddit

Lau Pa Sat (老巴刹 )- where history and heritage architecture blend seamlessly. With a rich 130-year history, this distinctive octagonal architectural masterpiece stands as a timeless icon in the heart o...
lavenderose.pixframes
58 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Satay Street Queues

Stalls 7 & 8 are popular for satay. Expect a wait, but locals say it's worth it for the experience. TikTokReddit

💰 Satay Street Pricing

Can be pricier than other hawker centers, but the unique atmosphere justifies it for many. TikTokReddit

☕ Breakfast Delights

Try Champion Bolo's spam & cheese bun or Kopi Kiosk for kaya toast and kopi. Reddit

🍽️ Beyond Satay

Don't miss Michelin-recognized Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow or Butter & Cream's egg tarts. Reddit

🌃 Late Night Eats

Satay stalls are open late (until 1 or 3 AM), but most other stalls close around 10 PM. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(34k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lau Pa Sat is celebrated for its unique Satay Street experience and historic architecture, offering a vibrant atmosphere amidst the city's skyscrapers. While some find it a bit pricey and tourist-oriented, many visitors appreciate the diverse food options and the lively ambiance, making it a memorable stop for experiencing local culture. TikTokReddit

"This was our first meal. The hours may say 24 hours on Google but that’s not how it is in real life. Some of the stalls we wanted to try closed earlier. This location is very touristy and became very popular after Crazy Rich Asians. I’ll summarize the food that we tried. Overall, it’s about a 3.5-4. You can find some good stalls here. One thing to mention is that you have to take your trays and used dishes to the designated areas. Sorry to say but way too many white Americans tend not to do this. This is why Americans get a bad reputation.

-Best satay 3.5 - we got a mix. The prawns were very tasty. Chicken was good. Some of the beef was a bit dry.

-Ming Kee Roasted 5 - I got the signature (roasted duck with roasted pork). I loved this dish. It was made fresh. The duck and pork were both very tender and succulent. It tasted even better with the rice. I recommend stopping here.

Fried Buns 5 - I ordered the Shanghai steamed dumplings and Shanghai dumplings in chili oil. They were both excellent. Chili oil is not spicy at all. Dumplings were not dry and had a good flavor.

-Noodles in fish soup 5 - it was pretty good if you don’t mind the fish taste. Noodles were chewy. Flavorful dish.

-Ice kacang 3 - it was pretty much like flavored shaved ice, nothing special. The Korean shaved ice is better.

-Golden Shoe hokkien mee 1 - the oyster omelette was really bad. There were more burnt pieces than actual oysters. Somehow they ran out of fried carrot cake.

-Chicken wings 5 - Very juicy. A lot better than the oyster omelette."

Nicholas P

"Very lively hawker. Loved satay street! We liked it so much we went twice. Take your time and walk around to all of the stalls. Try stall 8 for satay! It picks up a lot after 7 or 8 pm!"

Faraz Kajani

"The food is great and the atmosphere fantastic. There were so many choices to eat, we decided to purchase from different hawker stalls and share. I can see why this establishment is so popular, the building itself is a work of art."

Jeff OHalloran

What People Like

Unique Satay Street atmosphere
Historic architecture
Diverse food selection

What People Dislike

Can be touristy
Satay prices higher

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lau Pa Sat is centrally located in Singapore's Central Business District. You can easily reach it via the MRT, alighting at stations like Telok Ayer (DT18), Raffles Place (EW14/NS1), or Tanjong Pagar (EW16). It's also a pleasant walk from Marina Bay. TikTok+1

Yes, Lau Pa Sat is very accessible by public transport. The nearest MRT stations are Telok Ayer, Raffles Place, and Tanjong Pagar. Buses also frequently stop nearby. TikTok

Absolutely! Walking from Marina Bay to Lau Pa Sat is a popular and scenic option, offering great views of the city skyline. It takes about 15-20 minutes. TikTok

Satay Street is located on Boon Tat Street, just outside the main Lau Pa Sat building. It's easily accessible on foot from the hawker center itself. TikTok

Yes, there are several car parks available in the vicinity of Lau Pa Sat, including at Raffles Quay and nearby office buildings. However, public transport is generally recommended due to CBD traffic. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entry fee to enter Lau Pa Sat. It's a public hawker center, and you only pay for the food you order. TikTok

Lau Pa Sat is generally open 24 hours, but individual stalls have varying operating hours. Satay Street typically operates from 7 PM to 1 AM (or later on weekends). Reddit

Most stalls do not have additional charges. However, one Redditor reported being told about a midnight surcharge, which was disputed. It's best to clarify prices upfront if unsure. Reddit

Tables at Satay Street are on a first-come, first-served basis. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot. TikTok

While some stalls may accept credit cards or digital payments, it's always a good idea to carry cash, as many hawker stalls primarily operate on a cash basis. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Satay Street is famous, don't miss other local delights like Sambal stingray, Michelin-recognized Fried Kway Teow, and Butter & Cream bakery's egg tarts. Reddit

Satay Street can be pricier than typical hawker fare due to its unique location and atmosphere. However, many find the experience and taste to be worth the cost. TikTokReddit

For breakfast, try Champion Bolo's spam and cheese bun or Kopi Kiosk for traditional kaya toast and kopi. Dim sum is also available. Reddit

While many stalls focus on meat and seafood, you can often find vegetable dishes, tofu, and rice or noodle-based meals that can be adapted. It's best to ask the vendors directly. Reddit

Satay Street is a section of Boon Tat Street that closes to traffic nightly, transforming into an open-air hawker area specializing in satay (grilled meat skewers). Its fame comes from the unique dining setting amidst skyscrapers. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the iconic octagonal architecture of Lau Pa Sat, especially at dusk or night. Satay Street offers vibrant street photography opportunities with its bustling atmosphere and glowing grills. Instagram+1

Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of the food and stalls. However, always be mindful of other diners and ask for permission if you're focusing on a specific vendor or person. TikTok

The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful lighting on the building. For Satay Street, nighttime provides a dramatic backdrop with the illuminated street and city lights. Instagram

There are no specific restrictions on general photography within Lau Pa Sat. However, professional shoots or commercial filming may require permits. Instagram

You can capture close-ups of the grilling satay, the smoke rising, the vibrant peanut sauce, and the lively street scene with people dining. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lau Pa Sat offers a vibrant and engaging experience for families. The sheer variety of food means even picky eaters can find something they like. Satay Street, with its lively atmosphere and grilled skewers, is often a hit with children. TikTok Consider visiting earlier in the evening before it gets too crowded, or during lunchtime when it's busy with office workers but still manageable. The open-air setting allows for a bit more freedom for kids to move around, though supervision is always key. Reddit

Tips for Families:
* Arrive early: Beat the biggest crowds and secure a table.
* Explore beyond Satay Street: Many stalls offer milder, kid-friendly options.
* Embrace the experience: Let kids try different skewers or local snacks.

💰 Budget Travelers

Lau Pa Sat is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience authentic Singaporean cuisine without breaking the bank. While Satay Street can be slightly more expensive, most other stalls offer meals at very reasonable prices, often under S$10. TikTokReddit This makes it an ideal spot for enjoying multiple local dishes without a hefty bill. The ability to sample various items from different vendors allows for a diverse and affordable dining experience. TikTok

Budget-Friendly Tips:
* Focus on non-Satay stalls: Many offer excellent value.
* Share dishes: Try a few different items and share with travel companions.
* Drink water: Opt for tap water or local beverages instead of imported drinks to save costs.

couples

For couples, Lau Pa Sat offers a romantic and atmospheric dining experience, especially on Satay Street. The lively ambiance, the glow of the grills, and the shared experience of enjoying delicious food under the stars create a memorable evening. TikTokInstagram It's a great place for a casual yet exciting date night, allowing you to explore different flavors together and soak in the vibrant Singaporean culture. TikTok

Romantic Touches:
* Bookend your meal: Enjoy a stroll around the nearby Marina Bay before or after dinner.
* Share skewers: Order a variety of satay to sample together.
* Enjoy the view: Find a table with a good vantage point of the city skyline.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Satay Street

Every evening, Boon Tat Street, adjacent to Lau Pa Sat, undergoes a magical transformation. It's closed to traffic and becomes 'Satay Street,' a bustling open-air hawker experience dedicated to grilled satay skewers. The sight of numerous stalls firing up their grills, sending plumes of fragrant smoke into the night air, is captivating. TikTok+1 While some locals might suggest the taste has evolved or that other hawker centers offer superior satay, the unique atmosphere of dining amidst Singapore's towering skyscrapers is undeniable and a major draw for visitors. Reddit+1

Popular stalls, often identified by long queues, include numbers 7 and 8. TikTok Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours. The variety of meats – chicken, beef, mutton, and even prawns – grilled to perfection and served with a rich peanut sauce, makes it a memorable culinary adventure. TikTok It's an experience that perfectly blends local flavors with an iconic urban setting, making it a must-visit for many tourists. TikTok+1

Pro-tip: While the atmosphere is the main draw, some Redditors suggest that if you're looking for the absolute best satay in Singapore, you might need to explore beyond Satay Street. However, for a quintessential Singaporean night out with a fantastic ambiance, it's hard to beat. Reddit

Lau Pa Sat's Architectural Heritage

Lau Pa Sat, originally known as the Telok Ayer Market, is a historical landmark that has stood the test of time. Built in the late 19th century, its distinctive Victorian-era architecture, characterized by its octagonal shape and intricate cast-iron detailing, makes it a visually striking building in the modern CBD skyline. Instagram It's one of the oldest buildings in Singapore and has been meticulously preserved, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past. The building itself is an attraction, showcasing a blend of historical charm and functional design.

The structure was designed by the British colonial government and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, but its core architectural identity remains. Walking through its halls, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and the historical significance of this beloved landmark. Instagram It's a testament to Singapore's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity. The contrast between the historic Lau Pa Sat and the surrounding contemporary skyscrapers is particularly striking, making it a popular spot for photographers. Instagram

Key Features:
* Octagonal Design: A unique and easily recognizable architectural feature.
* Cast-Iron Detailing: Showcases the intricate metalwork of the Victorian era.
* Historical Significance: One of Singapore's oldest markets, reflecting its colonial past.

Beyond Satay: A Culinary Journey

While Satay Street garners much of the evening attention, Lau Pa Sat is a treasure trove of diverse culinary options throughout the day. This expansive hawker center houses numerous stalls offering a wide spectrum of Singaporean and international dishes. From breakfast delights to hearty lunches and late-night snacks, there's something to satisfy every palate. TikTok+1

For breakfast, Redditors recommend Champion Bolo's 'spam and cheese breakfast bun' and Kopi Kiosk for traditional kaya toast and kopi (coffee). Reddit During lunch and dinner, explore stalls serving local favorites like chili crab, laksa, char kway teow, and Hainanese chicken rice. Don't overlook the Michelin-recognized Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow stall for a taste of award-winning hawker fare. Reddit For those with a sweet tooth, Butter & Cream bakery is highly praised for its exceptional egg tarts. Reddit

Must-Try Dishes (Excluding Satay):
* Sambal Stingray: Grilled stingray with spicy sambal sauce. Reddit
* Lao Fu Zi Fried Kway Teow: A Michelin-recognized hawker classic. Reddit
* Butter & Cream Egg Tarts: Rich, pudding-like texture. Reddit
* Champion Bolo's Breakfast Bun: A weekend specialty. Reddit

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