In the mornings, you’ll see the people at Sungei Road Laksa firing up the brick stove with charcoal and prepare for the hectic day that is ahead of them. There’s a queue from 11.30am on weekdays and earlier on weekends, so the best time to go is after peak hours on weekdays. This traditional bowl of laksa is served in small portions, so if you’re a big eater, two bowls will suit you just fine. The cockles are succulent and the coconut gravy, entirely moreish.

Opening hours: (Mon to Sun) 9am-6pm, closed on every first and third Wed of the month

Never mind the steely glare that the auntie of this popiah store may give you when you order, because the popiah here is easily one of the best in Singapore. Chockfull of generous amounts of turnip, bean sprouts, prawn, and hard-boiled egg, the owners of Ping Ji Bo Bia also sprinkle in pieces of fried batter to this Singaporean delicacy for an added punch. Warning: The chilli is necessary, but at a fiery level of spicy. Heap on as you please.

Opening hours: Closed on Mon

Blink and you’ll miss it — this nondescript stall at the corner of Verdun and Sam Leong Road has been around for over 40 years and serves up beautifully springy meepok. Tossed in sambal and topped with fish cake, minced meat, mushrooms, and pieces of lard, this is one bowl of noodles you’ll remember for life.

Opening hours: Daily 7am-4pm, Closed on Wed

There’s no better food on a rainy day than a delightful bowl of pig organ soup. It’s a concoction of pork liver and pork belly slices, alongside tofu, meatballs, kidney and intestines. The addition of salted vegetables also balances the soup out perfectly. You can also add on steamed minced meat or stir-fried cabbage to your slurp-worthy meal.

Opening hours: (Tue to Sat) 9am-5am, (Sun) 9am-12am, Closed on Mon

These exquisite oyster cakes are made fresh to order, and is deep fried with minced meat, chives, peanuts, and ikan bilis — don’t forget to have it with their tangy chilli sauce. If you don’t like oysters, the owners will be happy to make you one without (you’ll still get the rest of the ingredients). The best way to enjoy this delicacy is to have it on the spot when it’s hot and crisp.

Opening hours: 10am-6pm