Tiong Bahru holds a special place in my heart. I’m drawn to its quaint, serene charm: the tree-lined streets, the rows of cosy cafes, and the unhurried rhythm of the neighbourhood. I cherish my visits to Tiong Bahru Market just as much, where comforting local flavours bring foodies together. During my recent visit, I stumbled upon 178 Lor Mee. At first blush, it seemed just like any other stall, until I saw “deep-fried shark nuggets” on the menu.
A regular bowl of lor mee costs $4.50 here, but I had to get the Deep Fried Shark Nuggets Lor Mee for $6, which is just $1.50 more. My plate came with a generous serving of thick yellow noodles doused in viscous gravy, topped with three pieces of shark meat and fried battered bits.
The $1.50 top-up was worth it; the shark meat was deep-fried to a perfect golden brown, and even better, it was crispy on the outside, while the flaky meat within remained firm and tender.Â
If you’re wondering whether shark meat tastes any different from regular fish, it really didn’t, which made the dish far less intimidating and much easier to enjoy.
Besides shark meat, you’ll find pork belly bits and fish cake, though a tad small in portion size.
As for the thick noodles, they carried a slight alkaline aftertaste toward the end that wasn’t quite to my liking. The generous helpings of garlic and vinegar helped mask the flavour, though, and I liked that you can help yourself to as many condiments as you like at the counter.Â
178 Lor Mee opens at 8am every day, making it a great breakfast spot for those living or working in the area. There was a queue even before the lunch rush, but it moved relatively quickly, so don’t worry about having to wait for long.Â
For easy access, Tiong Bahru Market is a 10-minute walk from Tiong Bahru MRT Station.
For more good eats in the area, check out Hello Arigato with outlet-exclusive items. Since we’re on the topic of lesser-seen food, check out these unique vending machines in Singapore dispensing old-school cakes, fresh matcha and more.Â
Address: 58 Seng Poh Road, #01-15, Tiong Bahru Market, Singapore 160058
Opening hours: Daily 7am to 1:45pm
178 Lor Mee is not a halal-certified eatery.
Photos taken by Marcus Neo.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg
Check out these best Johor Bahru cafes across the causeway for impeccable vibes, delicious brunch…
Lai Heng Economical Mixed Veg Rice is a popular cai png stall in Toa Payoh.…
Popular JB mall KIPMall Tampoi has reopened after a major revamp with new dining options,…
If you're a fan of Chinese tea brands, look forward to Molly Tea, a popular…
Prince Coffee House at Beach Road is a popular Hainanese eatery that will be closing…
If you're crossing the border, this two-day JB food itinerary is packed with delicious stops…