Hot Buns: New Bao Kiosk With Hidden “Mama Shop” In Clarke Quay

Hot Buns is an Asian-inspired burger and bao shop in Clark Quay

The next time you’re heading to Clarke Quay for late-night drinks, check out new kid on the block Hot Buns. Located along the main road, right next to The Cannery taxi stand, this takeaway-only kiosk serves hearty bao, burgers, and snacks in modern Asian flavours.

The entrance is bright and spacious with a semi-open kitchen concept so you can peek in to see the cooking in action.

Order at the counter, and take your #OOTD at the photo-worthy wall while waiting to collect your food.

Food-wise, there’s a nice variety of snacks to munch on before savouring your mains. The Spiced Corn Ribs ($6) are a must-try; this flavourful snack comes with your choice of seasoning: Jamaican Jerk, Seaweed Plum, or Fiery Mala.

There’s also the popular Spam Shaker Chips ($9), fried to order and served in a paper bag. Pour in your seasoning of choice—Seaweed Plum or Fiery Mala—and shake well before enjoying.

One unique aspect of Hot Buns is that you can top up $0.80 for a house-made sauce, with options such as Signature Currymayochup and Sriracha Lime.

For mains, you won’t be disappointed with The Threesome ($18), a trio that comprises their Ol’ Skool Bao, Classic Pork Belly Bao, and Beef Galbi Bao.

The Korean-inspired beef flavour is made with barbecued beef short ribs, kimchi, pickled daiko, and perilla leaf. Sweet okonomiyaki sauce and mayo complete the bao for a creamy and satisfying bite.

The Ol’ Skool Bao is another highlight, comprising a thick slab of spam with truffle scrambled egg, crunchy cabbage, and leek. Holding everything together is a steamed white bun that kong bak bao-loving folks would be familiar with.

If you want something more sinful, get the Crispy Honey Soy Chix Burger ($12) instead.

This hearty fried chicken burger features fluffy brioche buns sandwiching buttermilk chicken, shredded cabbage, and pickled daikon.

Once you’ve collected your items, don’t forget to pop by the hidden mama shop right by the side entrance to grab a snack or two!

Hot Buns is a convenient three-minute walk from Fort Canning MRT Station.

Another unique place nearby that’s worth checking out is Le Jardin, a French bistro with a garden theme and Parisian-inspired decor. There’s also Sui Yi Gastrobar, a new Asian bistro bar with pig trotter bee hoon, fried chicken rice balls and more.

Address: 3 River Valley Road, #01-02/03, The Cannery, Singapore 179024
Opening hours: Wed-Sat 4pm to 12am
Website
Hot Buns is not a halal-certified eatery.

Photos taken by Chew Yi En.
This was a media tasting at Hot Buns.

Anthia Chng

As the Associate Editor of Eatbook, Anthia survives on a steady diet of cake and coffee. With a decade of writing experience in food, fashion, and beauty—including six years at Expat Living Singapore—she’s passionate about sharing stories that excite and inspire, whether it’s discovering the latest restaurant opening or shining a light on a heritage hawker stall.