Best Places in Singapore to Buy Chinese New Year Food

Chinese New Year (CNY) is one of the most anticipated festivals in Singapore, and food plays a significant role in the celebrations. From traditional goodies to luxurious festive delicacies, Singapore offers a plethora of options for stocking up on Chinese New Year food. Here’s a guide to the best places to shop:

1. Chinatown

  • Why Go: Chinatown is the heart of Chinese culture in Singapore and a must-visit for its vibrant CNY atmosphere.

  • What to Buy:

    • Bak Kwa (barbecued pork slices) from Lim Chee Guan or Bee Cheng Hiang.

    • Traditional cookies like pineapple tarts, love letters, and almond cookies.

    • Festive treats such as peanut candy and sesame crisps from Chinatown Street Market.

  • Tips: Visit the Chinatown Festive Street Bazaar for unique snacks and deals.

2. Tiong Bahru Bakery and Market

  • Why Go: A mix of old-school charm and modern flair, this area offers both classic and innovative CNY snacks.

  • What to Buy:

    • Handcrafted pineapple tarts from boutique bakeries.

    • Traditional snacks and fresh ingredients for home-cooked reunion dinners at the Tiong Bahru Wet Market.

  • Tips: Go early to beat the crowds, especially closer to CNY.

3. Jewel Changi Airport

  • Why Go: Jewel hosts a range of premium outlets and artisanal food brands.

  • What to Buy:

    • Exclusive CNY gift boxes from Tai Cheong Bakery.

    • Luxurious tea sets from TWG Tea to pair with festive snacks.

    • Specialty hampers from FairPrice Finest and international confectionery stores.

  • Tips: Look out for special CNY promotions at the airport.

4. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

  • FairPrice Finest, Cold Storage, and Sheng Siong are excellent for affordable festive essentials.

  • What to Buy:

    • Pre-packed yu sheng kits for your prosperity toss.

    • Ready-made nian gao (glutinous rice cakes).

    • Assorted mandarin oranges for gifting and decoration.

  • Tips: Check out in-store promotions and early-bird discounts.

5. Gourmet and Specialty Stores

  • Bengawan Solo: Famous for its premium kueh lapis (layer cakes) and pineapple tarts.

  • The Pine Garden: Known for their creative CNY bakes, such as orh nee (yam) pineapple tarts.

  • Emicakes: Perfect for unique durian-based treats.

  • Tips: Pre-order your goodies to avoid long queues.

6. Local Bakeries and Confectioneries

  • Neighborhood bakeries offer homemade-style snacks with a personal touch.

  • Recommended Bakeries:

    • Kele: Pineapple tarts in unique flavors like rose and matcha.

    • Gin Thye Cake Maker: Traditional Chinese pastries and CNY cakes.

  • Tips: These stores often offer bundle discounts for bulk purchases.

7. Luxury Hotels

  • Why Go: High-end hotels offer exquisite, artisanal CNY treats perfect for gifting.

  • Top Picks:

    • Raffles Hotel: Signature CNY hampers and goodies.

    • Shangri-La Singapore: Handmade nian gao and premium yu sheng platters.

    • Mandarin Oriental: Elegant mooncakes and cookies.

  • Tips: Place orders early for customizations and hampers.

8. Online Stores

  • Why Go: Convenience and access to a wide range of options.

  • Top Sites:

    • RedMart: Comprehensive selection of CNY snacks and groceries.

    • The Golden Duck: Gourmet snack bundles featuring salted egg fish skin and more.

    • Lazada and Shopee: Festive food hampers and bulk snack deals.

  • Tips: Check for delivery slots as demand surges during CNY.

9. Hawker Centres

  • Why Go: Affordable and authentic options for traditional festive food.

  • Notable Centres:

    • Old Airport Road Food Centre: Famous for traditional desserts and festive cakes.

    • Maxwell Food Centre: Great for homemade kueh and cookies.

  • Tips: Chat with vendors for recommendations and custom orders.

Pro Tips for Buying CNY Food

  • Shop Early: The best treats sell out quickly as CNY approaches.

  • Look for Promotions: Many stores offer discounts for bulk purchases or early orders.

  • Taste Before Buying: Many vendors provide samples at markets and bazaars.

  • Go for Quality: Pay attention to the freshness and quality of ingredients, especially for traditional items like bak kwa and pineapple tarts.

With these recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared to celebrate Chinese New Year with a bounty of delicious treats and festive foods. Happy shopping and 新年快乐 (Happy New Year)!

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