Bukit Batok is more than just a quarry! We’ve sussed out the best food places and top things to do in this ‘hood.
Everyone always talks about the central and eastern parts of Singapore, but let’s not underestimate the western corner. Bukit Batok is one neighbourhood we shouldn’t turn a blind eye to, thanks to its hip cafes, top-notch food spots, expansive green spaces, and fascinating sights. Curious to explore the area but unsure of where to begin? Lucky for you, we’ve compiled this guide to help you out. You’re welcome!
Bukit Batok guide: Top food places to stuff your faces
1. Bak Ohana Nasi Padang
The founders of this humble stall started their business after their father’s passing, as it was his wish to have a physical stall. No, we’re not crying, you are! Grab a plate of nasi padang and fill it to the brim with dishes like ayam masak merah (chicken cooked in dried chilli sambal), beef rendang, and stir-fried vegetables. The stall also offers other familiar fare such as nasi lemak, lontong, and mee soto.
Bak Ohana Nasi Padang, Fu Eating House, The Elitist, 25 Bukit Batok Crescent, Singapore 658066
2. The Neighbourwok
If you’re on the hunt for the best Hokkien mee in Singapore, we know just the place. This stall’s offering comes with the right amount of gravy and generous portions of yellow noodles and white bee hoon. Of course, we can’t forget the supporting cast of pork belly bits and lard, squid, prawns, and sambal. What you get is a divine plate, which you’ll slurp up till the last drop. Psst: swing by in the afternoon, when you can add a plate of satay to your order.
The Neighbourwok, Get Together Coffeeshop, 177 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore 650177
3. Coexist Coffee Co.
There’s an inherent tranquillity to lounging at rooftop cafes, don’t you agree? This is one of our fave spots, which triumphantly returned to its original location three months after it initially closed. The revamped space boasts a sleek, minimalist design and a new menu focusing on Asian fusion dishes. If the weather’s not too balmy, we recommend enjoying your meal outdoors, where you can drink in the view of the surrounding estates and nature reserve.
Coexist Coffee Co., #08-00, Hillview Building, 48 Hillview Terrace, Singapore 669269
4. Whisk & Paddle
Nope, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. This Punggol native has opened a second branch in the west, and unlike its predecessor, this one’s fully air-conditioned. This glasshouse cafe practically screams IG-worthy, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows and lush greenery surrounding it. While the menu is largely similar to its sister outlet, there are exclusive items you can sample here, including tom yum and pumpkin pizzas.
Whisk & Paddle, #01-01, Bukit Gombak Park, 816 Bukit Batok West Avenue 5, Singapore 659089
5. Shi Mei Hainanese Chicken Rice
This local delight needs no introduction; you can find at least one Hainanese chicken rice eatery in every estate. Those living in Bukit Batok will know about this food stall, which constantly attracts queues. You can get the regular roasted or steamed chicken, but if you’re feeling a little adventurous, try the sesame chicken. It’s roasted chook coated with sesame seeds, served with a sauce similar to the one on chee cheong fun.
Shi Mei Hainanese Chicken Rice, #01-326, Sin Huat Lee Restaurant, 371 Bukit Batok Street 31, Singapore 650371
6. Cuppafield
Westies, there’s no reason to envy the eastern side – not when you have this cosy food spot in Bukit Batok. The family-run cafe offers Western nosh like pan-seared chicken chop, fish and chips, grilled steaks, and more. If you’re not super hungry, consider getting gelato with waffles, a slice of ondeh ondeh cake, or a comforting cup of coffee.
Cuppafield, #01-01, 446 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore 650446
7. Beans & Cream
“Best-kept secret” is an overused phrase, but we can’t think of anything else to describe this ice cream shop. Comfortably sandwiched between a hair salon and a traditional Chinese medicine store, Beans & Cream serves up cold treats with rotating flavours like watermelon sorbet, black glutinous rice, and blueberry yoghurt. Pair your selection with fluffy waffles, and wash everything down with a good ol’ cuppa.
Beans & Cream, #01-260, 347 Bukit Batok Street 34, Singapore 650347
Bukit Batok guide: Fun things to do under the sun
8. Bukit Batok Nature Park
They say you need to get some sun and be one with nature for at least 30 minutes daily. Well, those living in this neighbourhood should count themselves lucky ‘cos there are a few green spaces they can visit at any time. The most famous is the picturesque Bukit Batok Nature Park, which was developed on an abandoned quarry in the late 80s. Venture to the lookout points for gorgeous views, or go on a hiking trail through the foliage. History buffs can head to the World War II memorial site along Lorong Sesuai.
9. Bukit Batok Town Park
Another popular location is Bukit Batok Town Park, aka Little Guilin. It earned the moniker thanks to the distinctive rocky formation, which you can marvel at from the main plaza. There are other scenic spots worth checking out, too. The view surrounding Bukit Gombak Stadium is one you’ll enjoy. Hillview Park Connector links the abovementioned parks together, so you can easily travel back and forth.
10. Bukit Batok Hillside Nature Park
Is adventure your middle name? Add these places to your bucket list. We’re sure you’ve heard of Bukit Batok Hillside Nature Park, home to the hidden Torii gates (Singapore’s version). This abandoned park has a challenging trail not for the faint of heart, so take extra precautions if you plan to drop by. Apparently, there are petitions to conserve the park, but everything’s still up in the air at the mo.
11. Seng Chew Quarry
If taking on challenging terrain puts you off, Seng Chew Quarry might be an easier alternative. A stone’s throw from Bukit Gombak MRT station (and Little Guilin), you’ll only have to follow the drain that’ll lead you towards vegetation. Eventually, you’ll arrive at a fence surrounding the quarry. Take the time to soak in the vibes and enjoy the serenity. Oh, don’t forget to wear shoes with a good grip and slap on insect repellent if you’re planning to visit.
12. Clock tower at Bukit Batok East Avenue 2
We enjoy spotting fascinating things around Singapore, and this whimsical clock tower in Bukit Batok East is one of them. The structure features a ballerina all ready to take the stage while two pillars with bells of varying sizes flank the clock. Do the bells work? We’re unsure, but they add a je ne sais quoi to the spire. Maybe with a little maintenance, the clock tower will be as good as new.
13. Bukit Batok Driving Centre
Those who have grown weary of the passenger princess life can sign up for driving lessons at Bukit Batok Driving Centre. This building is an institution for those who dream of taking on the wheel and becoming everyone else’s designated driver. There are high-tech facilities like driving and crash stimulators, plus lessons are more affordable here compared to other driving schools.
Have a good time exploring Bukit Batok’s top food places and the best things to do!
