Song Fa Bak Kut Teh: True Taste of Singapore’s Best Bak Kut Teh
Alongside Chilli Crab and Chicken Rice, Bak Kut Teh stands as one of Singapore’s most iconic dishes.
This hearty dish features tender pork ribs simmered in a rich, flavourful broth infused with a generous blend of spices, Chinese herbs, and garlic. A nourishing and energising meal, it’s a local favourite enjoyed throughout the day.
No trip to Singapore is complete without trying this iconic speciality.
About Song Fa Bak Kut Teh
Legacy and Locations
There are numerous places to enjoy Bak Kut Teh in Singapore, from local eateries in the town to small stalls in hawker centres and food courts.
However, when it comes to the most famous Bak Kut Teh spot in Singapore, there’s no place quite like Song Fa Bak Kut Teh.
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh started as a humble pushcart stall selling Bak Kut Teh by the roadside in 1969. Today, it has grown into an iconic establishment with 15 outlets island-wide.
After being awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for five years in a row, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh has become the go-to name for Singaporean Bak Kut Teh, both in reputation and reality.
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh’s flagship store is located in Clarke Quay, a bustling area with bars and restaurants along the Singapore River.
Just across from Exit E of Clarke Quay MRT Station on the North East Line (Purple Line), the flagship store sits on the corner of New Bridge Road. A few doors down, you’ll find Clarke Quay’s second outlet.
Nostalgic Retro Ambience
Stepping into Song Fa Bak Kut Teh instantly immerses you in 1960s Singapore.
The interior, with counters that resemble the original pushcart stall and vintage photographs and tools, creates a charmingly retro atmosphere.
Enjoying Bak Kut Teh in this nostalgic setting evokes a sense of stepping into the past, making it an unforgettable dining experience.
Taste of Authentic Bak Kut Teh
Pork Cut Selection
Since Bak Kut Teh is commonly made with various cuts of pork, Song Fa Bak Kut Teh offers a selection of pork cuts to choose from.
The simplest option is the Pork Rib Soup, made with the lower half of the rib cage, specifically the ribs around the belly area.
Another choice is the Premium Loin Rib Soup, made with back ribs or loin ribs — rare cuts from the upper rib cage — which are particularly popular among those seeking something a little more special.
You can also choose other cuts, such as liver or tail, to experience a unique taste.
Perfect Pairings for Bak Kut Teh
Once you’ve decided on your main Bak Kut Teh, it’s time to pick some sides.
Locals typically order steamed rice and youtiao (fried dough fritters) to go with their Bak Kut Teh.
They are a must for fully enjoying the rich flavour of the soup. Whether you pour the soup over your rice or dip the crispy dough sticks into the broth, both options allow you to savour every drop of that delicious broth.
Enjoy Unlimited Soup Refills
For two people, here’s what a typical order looks like:
One serving of Bak Kut Teh and rice per person, with youtiao and salted vegetables to share — that’s just the right amount.
The Premium Loin Rib Soup features two large bone-in ribs and a whole garlic bulb.
The ribs, simmered for hours in a rich broth infused with garlic and pepper, are tender enough to effortlessly fall off the bone. The succulent meat simply melts in your mouth.
Dipping the youtiao (dough fritter) into the soup lets it soak up robust flavours, releasing a burst of flavour with every dip.
Even better, most Bak Kut Teh eateries offer free soup refills, so you can enjoy as many bowls of this addictive broth as you like.
Here are the Pork Belly and Veg ordered on another day.
In addition to Bak Kut Teh, there are various side dishes available, making it perfect for any meal, whether a light breakfast or a hearty dinner.
Take the Taste of Song Fa Home
If you loved the Bak Kut Teh, why not take home some ready-to-use Bak Kut Teh Soup Mix? You can easily recreate the authentic taste of Song Fa Bak Kut Teh right in your own kitchen.
Additionally, you can purchase tea leaves from Pek Sin Choon, the long-established Chinese tea shop that supplies tea to Song Fa Bak Kut Teh.
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh’s flagship store at Clarke Quay is always bustling with long queues.
But fear not – there are other outlets in popular tourist areas like Centrepoint (near Somerset MRT), Chinatown Point (near Chinatown MRT), and Jewel (at Changi Airport). With these options, it’s easier than ever to fit a visit into your itinerary.
For an authentic taste of Singapore’s Bak Kut Teh, head to the classic choice — Song Fa Bak Kut Teh. You can’t go wrong with it.
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh
AD
