Hong Sheng Restaurant: Famous 50-Year-Old Zi Char Stall In Toa Payoh

Hong Sheng Restaurant is a famous zi char stall in Toa Payoh

Image credit: Flo Yeow

As one of Singapore’s oldest neighbourhoods, Toa Payoh is home to many long-standing, affordable food gems you may not have heard of if you don’t stay nearby. At Toa Payoh, you can get cai png for just $2 at Lai Heng Economical Mixed Veg Rice, or famous chicken rice at Traditional Rui Ji Chicken Rice, made with a recipe over 74 years old! Here’s another great spot in the area: Hong Sheng Restaurant, a family-run eatery that has been in business for over 50 years! 

Image credit: Cynthia Ong

Hong Sheng Restaurant is your typical, old-school no-frills eatery. You can get usual zi char favourites here, such as Kai Lan with Mushroom ($8), Chilli Crab (seasonal price), and Seafood Hor Fun ($8). However, they’re most known for their prawn paste chicken AKA har chiong gai and their claypot fish. 

Image credit: Jimmy Lee

Priced at $8, the restaurant’s Prawn Paste Chicken Wings are not only affordable, but said to be extremely crispy and juicy. The wings have a nice coating of the prawn paste without being overly oily, while retaining the slightly sweet flavour of the chicken. This is a must-order when you come here! 

Image credit: Mon T

The Claypot Garoupa ($48) is served with an entire fried fish. It comes with ingredients such as Chinese cabbage and white fish meat doused in a thick, seafood broth. This dish is recommended for sharing! 

Image credit: Ivan Michael Pung

Hong Sheng Restaurant is located near Toa Payoh Lorong 1, a six-minute walk from Braddell MRT Station. Despite being in a more quiet area, this restaurant still draws crowds for its good food and affordable prices. Do take note that reservations are highly recommended, and they only accept cash payment. 

If you’re looking for more zi char options, take a look at our Por Kee Eating House coverage. Otherwise, here’s our list of best Toa Payoh food if you’re in the area! 

Address: 203 Toa Payoh North, Singapore 310203
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 4:30-10pm
Hong Sheng Restaurant is not a halal-certified eatery. 

Feature image adapted from Cynthia Ong and Jack.