Geylang Serai Market

Geylang Serai Market is one of Singapore’s busiest markets and has been a central attraction to visitors who tour the country.

The market first opened in 1964, and has since been a hub of activity for the surrounding Malay community since this time. This explains why there is a wide array of Malay specialties available at this market.

One of the most fascinating things that you will observe on arrival at the market is the fact that the market is located in a charming traditional Malay kampong house. Its central location in the heart of the community gives visitors a unique glimpse into the Malay culture and way of life.

The market takes pride in offering ingredients for locals to prepare traditional Malay dishes. Additionally, visitors can also get a variety of Middle Eastern spices, including cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves, amongst many other items.

Geylang Serai Market is also an amazing location to enjoy the best of Malay food. Visit the second floor to get access to the hundreds of stores whose key focus is Malay and Indian cuisine. This is, without a doubt, the best place to enjoy the local dishes. Look out for popular meals such as goreng pisang (banana fritters), beef rendang (spicy beef) and ikan terubok (fried fish). The idea is to go with an empty stomach and an adventurous palate.

The market also offers fresh produce that ranges from vegetables to fruits and eggs. Fresh meat and live seafood is also available, as are noodles which are a popular food item in the region.

Look out for the variety of beautiful fabric and decorated materials for a souvenir. As a general guide, it helps to arrive early as there is less human traffic. This is also an opportunity to get great bargains and perhaps a recipe or two from the sellers at the spice stores.

You can get to the market by taking the MRT and alighting at Eunos station (east/west line) or Paya Lebar station east/west and circle line) and then walking a short distance to the market.