Punggol’s hawker scene may not be as robust as, say, Toa Payoh’s, given the neighbourhood’s youth. Surprises definitely surface when you know where to look, however—an experience one Punggol resident shared on the Hawkers United Facebook group when they chanced upon Wong Kee Claypot Rice in the 308C Waterway Coffee Shop.
Image credit: Alex Lee
The discerning foodie always thought there was nothing much that was good to eat in Punggol until he chanced upon this newly opened Ipoh-style claypot rice stall. They sell versions of their signature dish, but also a selection of double-boiled soup, porridge, and braised meat rice. Prices are largely under $10 and go up to $10.80 when you buy a set, which includes a claypot rice, soup, and xiao bai cai on the side. Portions that feed two are also slightly pricier, but still under $15.
Image credit: Alex Lee
The signature Traditional Claypot Chicken Rice ($13.80) feeds two people and comes with soy-braised chicken amidst smoky-sweet claypot rice, charred just right at the bottom. Fatty rounds of Chinese sausage and slivers of salted fish are generously scattered throughout the mix, offering extra flavour.
Image credit: Alex Lee
Another bestseller is their Claypot Vinegar Pig’s Trotters ($7.50), where gelatinous pork trotters are slowly braised in a sour, moreish liquid until the fat becomes gelatinous, and melts in the mouth. Add on $2.50 to enjoy this with a side of veg and rice. If you’re not a fan of pork trotters but love lu rou fan, then try the stall’s version, priced at $6.50. Each portion comes with braised pork belly, a hard-boiled egg, Chinese mushrooms, and a delicious, meaty gravy.
For rainy days, turn to their selection of classic double-boiled soup or porridge. The latter comes cooked in a claypot, served still-bubbling to the table. Splurge a little and get their Claypot Dried Scallop Porridge ($8.50), cooked with sweet dried scallops and other fresh seafood, including prawns, clams, and squid. Otherwise, there’s the Claypot Dried Scallop with Century Egg and Pork Porridge ($6.80) for a familiar fave.
For more eats in Punggol, check out our Punggol food guide. There’s also our guide to the best claypot rice in Singapore for eateries selling the dish!
Address: 308C Waterway Coffee Shop, 308B Punggol Walk, Singapore 822308
Opening hours: TBD
Wong Kee is not a halal-certified eatery.
Featured image adapted from Alex Lee