SELECTED RESTAURANT
Singapore, Singapore
Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh: A Traditional Singaporean Delight in Queenstown Singapore's Food Scene
Nestled at 20 Ghim Moh Road, #01-54, Singapore 270020, in vibrant Queenstown, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh is a beloved hawker stall that boasts a rich heritage dating back more than six decades. Renowned for its iconic chwee kueh, a steamed rice cake topped with savory preserved radish (chai poh) and chili sauce, this spot attracts foodies and locals seeking authentic Singaporean flavors with a nostalgic twist.
The Authentic Experience and Legacy
At Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh, the recipe has been lovingly preserved since 1959. The stall is currently operated by Mr. Lee San Ba, who joined the family business at a young age and continues to uphold the tradition with his family. What sets this chwee kueh apart is its unique use of pork lard to cook the preserved radish, crafting a distinctive fragrant and savory topping that resonates with the old-school palate.
The steamed rice cakes themselves are soft yet firm, showcasing a silky texture that loyal patrons rave about. This combination delivers a comforting and satisfying snack that carries the essence of Singapore’s hawker heritage.
Visitors’ Insights and Community Sentiment
The community sentiment towards Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh is mixed but mostly positive. Many visitors cherish the nostalgia and authentic flavors that bring back memories of Singapore’s culinary past. However, some highlight that the portion sizes and seasoning may vary, with a few expressing a desire for more generous toppings and utensils that enhance the eating experience.
- Quality and Texture: Soft, silky steamed rice cakes with a smooth and tender consistency.
- Traditional Toppings: Savoury preserved radish cooked in pork lard and a balanced chili sauce.
- Nostalgic Atmosphere: An old-school vibe enhanced by traditional dialect music and friendly service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh
- What are the operating hours of Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh? Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh operates daily from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Is there a minimum order requirement? Yes, the minimum order is four pieces of chwee kueh.
- What is the price for four pieces of chwee kueh? Four pieces of chwee kueh are priced at S$2.40.
- Is the chwee kueh suitable for vegetarians? The chwee kueh contains preserved radish (chye poh) and chili sauce, which are vegetarian-friendly.
- Does the stall accept credit cards? The stall operates on a cash-only basis.
Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh: A Legacy of Authentic Singaporean Flavors in Queenstown Singapore.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Queenstown, Singapore, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh stands as a venerable institution in the local hawker scene, boasting a heritage that stretches back over six decades. Established in 1959, this iconic stall has been delighting generations with its traditional and authentic chwee kueh—a beloved steamed rice cake delicacy that captures the essence of Singaporean culinary history.
From Humble Beginnings to Culinary Landmark
The journey of Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh began modestly when Mr. Lee San Ba's mother started selling her signature chwee kueh from a push cart outside Alexandra Hospital in 1959. This grassroots venture quickly earned a dedicated following, thanks to its distinctive recipe that features a perfectly steamed rice cake topped with preserved radish (chai poh) cooked using a traditional method involving pork lard—a technique that imbues the dish with an unparalleled savory fragrance.
By 1970, the stall had moved to its current home at the Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre, solidifying its presence as a permanent fixture in the local food landscape. Over the years, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh has become synonymous with unwavering quality, preserving its old-school charm while satisfying the evolving tastes of both long-time fans and new visitors.
Recognition and Enduring Popularity
Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh's remarkable commitment to traditional preparation has earned it prestigious recognition, being featured in the Michelin Guide multiple times, including in 2013, 2019, and as recently as 2024. This accolade highlights the stall's exceptional quality and its role in preserving Singapore's rich hawker culture.
What Makes Their Chwee Kueh So Special
The secret lies in the meticulous crafting of each rice cake, which features a characteristic dimple that collects water after steaming—hence the name "Chwee" meaning water in the local dialect. This dimple serves as the perfect pocket for the savory chai poh topping, which is slow-cooked using a 60-year-old recipe involving pork lard, a rare and authentic method that imparts a deep, rich flavor often missing in modern renditions.
The texture of the steamed rice cake is perfectly balanced—soft yet firm—creating a comforting mouthfeel that keeps patrons coming back. This dedication to traditional flavors and methods has earned heartfelt praise from locals who grew up enjoying the stall since the 1970s, making it a nostalgic culinary treasure.
- 1959 Stall founded by Mr. Lee San Ba's mother, selling chwee kueh from a push cart outside Alexandra Hospital.
- 1970 Moved to Ghim Moh Road Market & Food Centre, becoming a permanent fixture in Singapore’s hawker culture.
- 2013 First featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide, recognizing its quality and heritage.
- 2019 & 2024 Continued inclusion in the Michelin Guide, maintaining its status as a must-visit hawker stall.
For foodies, digital nomads, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Singapore’s hawker heritage, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh offers a genuine experience that combines tradition, history, and flavor in every bite. This stall doesn’t just serve food—it preserves a culinary legacy that continues to enrich the cultural fabric of Singapore.
Discover Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh: A Singaporean Culinary Classic
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, Singapore, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh has been serving authentic traditional chwee kueh since 1959. This time-honored eatery is beloved for its handmade rice cakes topped with savory preserved radish—a recipe handed down through generations. Recognized in the Michelin Guide, it stands as a testament to enduring culinary heritage.
What Makes Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh Special
At this local favorite, every rice cake is crafted by hand, offering a delightful texture that is both soft and firm. The signature preserved radish, cooked with pork lard following a 60-year-old recipe, imparts a uniquely rich, savory fragrance that sets it apart from other chwee kueh stalls. Despite its simple appearance, the dedication to traditional preparation methods has earned it loyal patrons who appreciate the genuine taste of Singaporean hawker culture.
Pros of Visiting Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh
- Authentic traditional chwee kueh that preserves Singapore’s hawker heritage.
- Established in 1959 with decades of experience and tradition.
- Handmade rice cakes that provide a delightful texture not commonly found in mass-produced versions.
- Savory preserved radish topping cooked with pork lard for authentic flavor.
- Recognized in Michelin Guide as a must-try hawker gem in Singapore.
Considerations Before Visiting
While Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh offers a delightful taste of tradition, visitors should be aware of a few practical points. The stall operates on a cash-only basis, which might be inconvenient for those used to digital payments. The menu is quite limited, focusing primarily on chwee kueh and related items, so those seeking a diverse spread might find options lacking. Additionally, some patrons have expressed mixed feelings about the portion sizes and seasoning levels, which can vary slightly from visit to visit.
Final Thoughts
For food enthusiasts and travelers eager to experience a slice of Singapore's culinary history, Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh presents an authentic and nostalgic stop. Its handmade rice cakes and savory preserved radish topping evoke the rich flavors of traditional hawker fare. While there are minor drawbacks such as payment methods and limited menu variety, the overall experience and dedication to preserving heritage make it a memorable destination for a quick, satisfying snack.
Open now - Closing 5:00 PM
Monday
06:30–17:00
Tuesday
06:30–17:00
Wednesday
06:30–17:00
Thursday
06:30–17:00
Friday
06:30–17:00
Saturday
06:30–17:00
Sunday
06:30–17:00
Aggregated Ratings 3.7
Loading map...
