Craving a taste of Singaporean history and amazing food? Right here at Whampoa Makan Place, you will find both.
Whampoa Makan Place is more than just a hawker center. It is a vibrant hub with a rich past. It is located along Whampoa Drive. This food center is divided into a hawker center and a wet market.
Let’s step back in time. Before Whampoa Makan Place existed, there was Rayman Market. Rayman Market served the Rayman Estate housing area. In 1973, Whampoa Market and Food Centre replaced Rayman Market. The site of the former Rayman Market is where Block 90 stands today.
The place was upgraded in 2007. That is when it got its current name: Whampoa Makan Place. The name honors Hoo Ah Kay. He was a prominent merchant known as Whampoa. His birthplace was Huangpu in China.
Whampoa Makan Place is actually made up of two separate buildings. Block 90 is known as the night market. Many stalls are open for lunch, dinner and even supper here. Block 91 is the morning market. It is half wet market and half food stalls that mostly close after lunch.
Many famous stalls call Whampoa Makan Place home. Balestier Road Hoover Rojak serves amazing Rojak with century egg and jellyfish. Liang Zhao Ji Duck Rice offers braised duck rice. Beach Road Fish Head Bee Hoon is known for its delicious fish soup. Huat Heng Fried Oyster offers tasty oyster omelets.
These stalls have all received the Michelin Bib Gourmand award. This award recognizes eateries with great food at reasonable prices.
Whampoa Makan Place has faced challenges. In 2017, a fire broke out at the Hi Leskmi Nasi Lemak stall. Luckily, the fire was quickly put out and no one was hurt.
In 2021, the food center temporarily closed. This closure was due to COVID-19 clusters linked to the Jurong Port Fishery. After deep cleaning and disinfection, it reopened.
Whampoa Makan Place is not just a place to eat. It is a part of Singapore’s heritage. In 2018, the market was included in the Balestier Heritage Trail. This trail highlights the area’s faith, film and food.
As you wander through Whampoa Makan Place you will notice the sizzle of woks. You will smell fragrant spices. You will hear the chatter of locals and tourists alike. You will taste the delicious flavors of Singapore. It’s a culinary adventure.
So, come hungry and explore Whampoa Makan Place. Experience the history. Savor the flavors. Create your own memories at this Singaporean treasure.