Midday Munch Adventures #3
Lau Pa Sat - the famed marketplace at Raffles Place that has tourists flocking it, and locals grumbling about its mad prices. Personally, I never saw a point in dining there, firstly because it was never in the vicinity, secondly because I heard that it was overrated.
But now that I’ve made a semi-permanent second residence in the CBD area thanks to work, I’ve visited the marketplace about thrice in a month.
Last time I went, I met my long-time friend for lunch. I was really craving fish & chips that day, but sadly (and ironically if you ask me), none of the stalls at LPS sold anything western. I wonder why! I mean, I understand if you wanted to expose tourists to local and Asian cuisine alike, but I’m pretty certain that our version of western food is something that we have localised very well. So, why, stall owners? Why no western fare?? I’m disappointed.
So I settled for second best - but my biggest favourite at the market (besides Fatman Satay, of course): Dried Chilli Chicken Rice, which is also known as Kung Po Chicken Rice. I first tasted this one late night while doing overtime at work. Largely portioned in my opinion, but difficult not to finish every morsel. In general, KP Chicken Rice always tastes good thanks to its thick dark sauce and slight spiciness. But this one; they were generous with the gravy, and that made me one happy foodie.
The buddy had Korean Kimchi noodles. He was highly disappointed. Despite paying for its portion’s worth - his noodles came with fried chicken on the side - he lamented that the soup was more sour than spicy and tangy. I would trust the buddy on this; his dad is Korean and more often than not, his mom’s cooking includes genuine Kimchi delights. He’s definitely tasted much better.
Some other worthy and yummy dishes at LPS include the aforementioned Fatman Satay (stall number one at the satay line, guys, so you don’t miss it!) and minced meat noodles! I suppose it’s the one place you can count on if you’re craving Singaporean fare.
Uhm, although I’d beg to differ about the prices. They’re not dirt cheap, but they’re definitely not exorbitant either! Come on guys, who said the food was pricey?! Stop being such cheap locals!
