Where to find Hong Kong-like hang-outs in Singapore

If you’re taking a trip to the Lion City any time soon, you may already have shopping on Orchard Road, riding the Singapore Flyer, sipping a Singapore Sling at the Raffles Hotel and tasting some famous chilli crab on your list of things to do. But unless you want to end up in Boat Quay or Clarke Quay (think Lan Kwai Fong or Wan Chai), the secret to hitting the tastiest and trendiest places to eat and drink in Singapore is knowing where to go.

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Unlike clustered Hong Kong Island, where you can saunter through SoHo and take your pick of places, or venture farther down the road to Sai Ying Pun if need be, Singapore’s buzzing enclaves of eateries and watering holes are spread out. The city state boasts a diverse variety of small, unique places in pockets situated in various neighbourhoods that are frequented by locals and expats alike. Here is a guide to select Singaporean hang-outs and similar Hong Kong spots, so you’ll feel right at home as you wine or dine. It can also serve as a handy guide to Singaporeans visiting Hong Kong.

Let’s start with breakfast. If you’re a fan of an American-style diner experience akin to that of The Diner in Hong Kong, with its burgers, booths and bar stools, then Clinton St Baking Company is the place for you. There is no Clinton Street in Singapore– it takes its name from the New York original and is conveniently located near the Raffles Hotel. Make sure to order a Bellini with fruit puree, as well as the blueberry pancakes, which are light and come with maple butter. The bakery’s buttermilk chicken (available after 11.30am) is also delicious. The portions here are big, so it’s worth ordering to share.

If you like the vibe at Hong Kong’s Classified – airy, open-fronted and relaxed – then Club Street Social is the perfect lunch spot for you. Also not situated where its moniker might suggest, it’s on Gemmill Lane, just a stone’s throw from the popular Club Street area, close to Chinatown. Its farro “risotto” with spinach, lemon and goat’s cheese is healthy but hearty, and it also offers a range of breakfast options. For dinner, the pumpkin soup with feta dumplings is a must. An industry hang-out, where other chefs and bartenders in the area spend their time when they’re off duty, you won’t be disappointed in the food or selection of drinks.

Head around the corner and you’ll find Ding Dong, a livelier, brighter (above-ground) version of Hong Kong’s Ho Lee Fook, with a much bigger bar area and colourful vintage posters from around Asia that wallpaper the interior. You won’t be disappointed with the fun and playful atmosphere (ring the giant “Ding Dong” bell as you leave to show them you’ve had a good time), speedy service or the menu, which casually deconstructs the dishes. You’ll find yourself munching on items such as dehydrated cherry tomatoes and shallot powder, but without the pretentiousness you might find in other places doing similar dishes. Try the Vietnamese Scotch egg, and wagyu beef char siu (it competes with the ribs at Ho Lee Fook), or if you can’t decide what to order, ask them about their “Feed Me” menu, and the staff will put together a sharing or tasting menu to suit your tastes. Although your cocktails won’t all be served in a bubble tea cup, the Ding Dong Daiquiri does come in a plastic slushie cup.