La Pona Snack Bar is a hidden joint nestled in Orchard Plaza, a mere three-minute walk from Somerset MRT Station. Even better, this eatery opens from 10.30pm to 4am, so you can satisfy your late-night nasi lemak cravings after partying or burning the midnight oil. It makes for a great supper alternative to pricier options in town, might we add.
La Pona Snack Bar has been in business since 1986, and it’s currently managed by a third-generation owner alongside his grandmother and mother. Decades of experience don’t lie—there must be something attractive about their food that has allowed the eatery to maintain their humble business for close to 40 years now.
The counter seats allow patrons to see how the food is being prepared and served. With only about six to eight customers allowed at a time, perhaps opting for takeaway could be a better choice for those in a rush.
Image credit: 岡部達彦
Their Nasi Lemak Platter ($11.80) comes with hearty portions of fried fish fillet, fried chicken wing, luncheon meat, otah, hotdog, fried egg, and of course, sambal and fried anchovies. Interestingly, the ikan bilis doesn’t include any peanuts. Also, according to photos online, each fried egg comes with a drizzle of soya sauce.
If the platter doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can pick and choose your nasi lemak toppings, and customise your meal according to your liking.
While the nasi lemak at La Pona Snack Bar is on the pricier end, patrons, especially night owls, return time after time for a soul-warming meal.
Besides their nasi lemak, the Chicken Burger and Fish Burger ($4.50 each) make for a filling snack too. Their burgers are stacked with a fried egg, a slice of cheese, and either a fried fish fillet or a fried chicken patty. Also, you can ask for chilli sauce if you wish to add a kick of spice.
If you’re on the hunt for good nasi lemak, check out Spicy Wife at Telok Ayer, which sells Malaysian-style nasi lemak and XXL fried chicken. Alternatively, you can pay a visit to the newly opened FYP Cafe also located at Somerset.
Address: 150 Orchard Road, #04-53, Orchard Plaza, Singapore 238841
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 10.30pm to 4am
Website
La Pona Snack Bar is not a halal-certified eatery.
Feature image adapted from 岡部達彦 and @jaceonthemove.
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