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Guide to Lau Pa Sat in Singapore That Gives Nightlife a Whole New Meaning

I had the pleasure of wandering into the legendary realms of Lau Pa Sat, and whoa, was I in for a treat.

Right in the pulsing heart of Singapore, this place stands as a testament to both culinary diversity and historical richness, making it far more than just a pit stop for the peckish. 

It’s a time capsule, where every corner has a story to tell, from its days as a bustling market in the past to the lively food spot it is now.

After munching my way through this feast for not only the stomach but also the soul, I felt compelled to craft this guide to Lau Pa Sat for you. It’s a cultural smorgasbord, and I’m here to share it with you, dish by dish, tale by tale.

Where is Lau Pa Sat?

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Lau Pa Sat is located at 18 Raffles Quay in Singapore’s Central Business District. It’s right in the heart of the city, surrounded by towering office buildings and just a stone’s throw away from major landmarks like Marina Bay.

How to Get to Lau Pa Sat

By MRT: Take the MRT to Raffles Place Station, which is on the North-South Line (NS26) and the East-West Line (EW14). Once you exit the station, head for Exit I. It’s just a short, five-minute walk, and you’ll find yourself in the middle of Lau Pa Sat. 

By Bus: There are several buses that drop you close to Lau Pa Sat. Look out for buses 10, 70, 75, 100, 107, 130, or 131. These buses have stops around Raffles Quay or Robinson Road, both of which are just a stone’s throw away from the food haven.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Hail a taxi or use your favorite ride-sharing app like Grab. Tell the driver you’re heading to Lau Pa Sat, and they’ll know where it is since it’s such a well-known spot.

By Private Car: Punch ‘Lau Pa Sat’ or ’18 Raffles Quay’ into your GPS and follow the suggested route.  There are a couple of parking options nearby, but keep in mind that the area can get busy, especially during meal times.

Best Time to Go to Lau Pa Sat

The best time to go to Lau Pa Sat is in the evening, around 7 or 8 PM when the whole place comes alive. 

That’s when they close off part of the street and the satay stalls start firing up their grills, filling the air with the mouth-watering aroma of barbecued skewers. 

And if you love a good festival vibe, try to visit during the Singapore Food Festival, which usually happens in July. It’s an awesome time to explore Lau Pa Sat because there are often special food events and unique dishes featured as part of the festival.

What to Do in Lau Pa Sat

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Lau Pa Sat brings you into a foodie’s paradise. The place is buzzing with the zing and zest of Singapore’s best eats—all ready to send your taste receptors into overdrive.

From Hainanese chicken rice to spicy laksa, it’s a cornucopia of flavors. One thing you absolutely must try is the char kway teow, a delightful mix of stir-fried flat noodles with prawns and Chinese sausage. 

Now, if the spices start to get to you, or if you’re simply looking for the perfect sweet finish, the dessert stalls are your next stop. There, you’ll find a dessert that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat: the ice kachang.

This shaved ice delight, vibrant with colors and flavors, offers the perfect cool-down after exploring Singapore’s spicy side.

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Beyond the culinary delights, Lau Pa Sat offers something else that captivates visitors: its significant place in history, right in the bustling heart of the city. 

The moment you step in, you’re greeted by stunning Victorian architecture. The intricate wrought-iron work and majestic clock tower are not just elements of design; they’re whispers from the 19th century, telling tales of days long past.

As you wander through, the grand pavilion-style structure continues the narrative, each detail meticulously crafted to transport you back in time. It reminds you that you’re walking through a piece of Singapore’s rich heritage. 

Make sure to look up and admire the craftsmanship of the ceiling—such attention to detail is a rare find in today’s fast-paced world. 

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Satay Street is perhaps the most iconic part of Lau Pa Sat. As the sun dips, they roll up the sidewalks and transform a whole street into Satay Central. 

You can walk through clouds of delicious, smoky aromas as vendors grill skewers of meat right in front of you. And let’s talk about the satay itself, served up with that dreamy peanut sauce; it’s absolutely mouthwatering. 

And while the satay is a show-stopper, don’t overlook the experience of communal dining here. It’s all about those shared tables—where the magic of local dining unfolds. 

Snagging a spot, tucking in, and striking up a conversation weave together into the experience. This unique blend of delicious food and friendly faces might just be the highlight of your night.

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At Lau Pa Sat, you get to savor top-notch grub, get a feel for its storied past, and also get front-row seats to some pretty lively shows! 

Every now and then, the place comes alive with tunes filling up the space—from the soulful strums of traditional Malay music to the energetic beats of modern bands. 

This musical backdrop turns every bite into a scene in itself. One minute you’re munching on some delectable satay, and the next you’re tapping your feet to anything from soulful Malay tunes to groovy contemporary hits.

It’s as if the place knows just when to amp up the energy, making your time here an unexpected journey from dining to delight.

Where to Eat and Drink near Lau Pa Sat

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Address: Raffles Quay, Stall #25 18

Phone: +65 8887 0859

Pricing: $

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Good to Know: Keep an eye on their website for seasonal specials like the Chinese Vermicelli—they’re not to be missed!

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Thunder Tea Rice has reimagined the traditional Lei Cha, transforming it into an unexpectedly delightful culinary experience. As the pioneers of Lei Cha in Singapore, they have crafted a menu that is both hearty and healthy.

Their offerings include a bowl overflowing with wholesome greens, grains, and tofu, perfectly complemented by their signature herbaceous tea broth. 

Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, combining fresh, nutty, and minty notes to make the meal a true experience. 

To further enhance their menu, they have introduced Thunder Spize—a blend of traditional and creative dishes that promise to tantalize your taste buds. 

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Address: Canton St, 8

Phone: +65 9061 9962

Pricing: $

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM

Good to Know: Be sure to check out their “Margarita Wednesdays” for some unbeatable deals on their signature drinks.

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Mamacitas is your go-to for a taste of vibrant, soulful Latin American flavors right in the heart of Singapore. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with an explosion of colors, energizing Latin beats, and the tantalizing aroma of spices and grilled meats. 

Their Tacos al Pastor is a revelation—tender, flavorful pork with a hint of pineapple, served in soft, homemade tortillas. And let’s not start on their Margaritas—each sip is like a fiesta in your mouth!

Beyond the delicious food and drinks, this cozy spot offers cooking classes and salsa nights that promise to whisk you away to the streets of Havana or Mexico City.

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Address: 21A Boon Tat Street Level 2 

Phone: +65 6227 2247

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM & 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
  • Saturday – 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM
  • Sunday – Closed

Good to Know: To dodge the corporate crowd, plan your steak escape late on weekday evenings or enjoy a less hurried experience during Saturday dinner.

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Meadesmoore Steakhouse takes your palate back in time with a modern twist on those grand 1900s US and UK steakhouses. The moment you walk in, you’ll feel the rich, classic vibe that makes dining here experience special.

This place is famous for its big steaks that are charcoal-grilled to sheer perfection. And when I say big, I mean serve-on-a-silver platter, juice-dripping delights.

Paired with gutsy side dishes such as truffle fries or creamy spinach and decadent desserts, each meal here is a case study in hearty dining.

Led by the talented Executive Chef Victor Loy, this place specializes in unusual cuts of beef, giving meat lovers a unique tableside education on less mainstream but incredibly flavorful steaks.

Where to Shop near Lau Pa Sat

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Address: 133 New Bridge Rd

Phone: +65 6702 0114

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Good to Know: Keep an eye on their website for seasonal sales and cultural events that are worth making a special trip for.

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Chinatown Point offers a diverse shopping experience that caters to both tourists and locals. With a variety of stores ranging from traditional Chinese products to modern lifestyle brands, it strikes the right balance for all shoppers.

Whether you’re searching for unique souvenirs at Yue Hwa or craving authentic local cuisine at Food Republic, you’ll find what you need. The mall provides a dynamic mix of retail, dining, and cultural experiences that reflect the rich heritage of the area.

Plus, Chinatown Point hosts regular events and exhibitions focused on Chinese culture. These activities offer a perfect blend of education and entertainment, enhancing your visit.

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Address: 3 Temasek Blvd

Phone: +65 6266 1502

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Good to Know: Don’t miss the frequent pop-up events and brand launches for exclusive deals and products.

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Suntec City showcases Singapore’s modern architectural skill, blending leisure, work, and lifestyle seamlessly. You’ll find numerous retail outlets such as H&M, Uniqlo, and tech giant Harvey Norman.

Adding to its allure, the mall also provides a wide range of dining options and entertainment services. From family-friendly activities to a vibrant nightlife scene, there’s always something to keep you engaged.

To make your experience even more enjoyable, Suntec City’s state-of-the-art convention center hosts a variety of international events, further enhancing its appeal.

Where to Stay near Lau Pa Sat

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Address: 10 Cross St

Phone: +65 6228 6388

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:

  • Open 24 hours

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Checking in at The Clan Hotel Singapore is more than finding a place to sleep; it’s a blend of modern luxury and local history. The hotel delves into the area’s past clan associations, making your stay both comfortable and culturally enriching. 

Room comforts here are next level. Whether it’s curling up in the posh Club Room or a restful slumber on a deluxe king bed, each space is designed with the fusion of colonial charm and modern chic. 

Plus, with on-demand fitness classes and a sky gym, your wellness routine will keep pace with your travel excitement. And don’t forget the dining—from local delights at the in-house restaurant to innovative cocktails at the bar, your taste buds are in for a treat!

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Address: 76 Telok Ayer St

Phone: +65 6580 2888

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:

  • Open 24 hours

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Amoy Hotel welcomes you with its historic setting as the site of Singapore’s first Chinese temple and a cozy atmosphere. The attentive staff ensures you feel at home from the moment you arrive.

After being charmed by the warm welcome, you’ll find that the rooms combine comfort and style, each uniquely designed to reflect Singapore’s cultural diversity.  

With amenities catering to both business and leisure travelers, including complimentary Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and personalized minibar items, your stay will be convenient and enjoyable. 

Plus, its central location also provides easy access to major sights and business hubs, making it a perfect base for exploring the vibrant city.