The diverse and rich hawker culture is an integral pillar of Singaporean culture that has withstood the test of time, dating back even before Singapore’s independence in 1965.
Found in one of the older residential areas of Kallang Estate, Old Airport Road Food Centre was established in 1972 as a means to relocate roaming street hawkers (who were the founding fathers of Singapore’s hawker culture!) into one consolidated area. This hawker centre gets its name from being situated near the former Kallang Airport.
With its simplistic design, much like the other hawker centres that were established in the same period, Old Airport Road Food Centre has two floors and each serves a specific purpose. The less-frequented upper floor has 54 other stores selling all sorts of sundry goods and household appliances including stationery, fashion accessories and electrical goods.
Below, the lower floor houses 168 food stalls that sell nearly all types of Singaporean food and receives large crowds on a daily basis. In 2006, Old Airport Road Food Centre underwent renovations, increasing its seating capacity and giving it a complete overhaul on its interior design.
A brief stroll into the hawker centre and you will discover many stalls selling similar food items. There are easily over 4 stalls selling Singapore’s renowned oyster omelette here but there is one stall that appears to be the most-loved of them all! Grab a plate of oyster omelette from Famous Kallang Airport Fried Oyster (#01-55) at only $8, full with a generous portion of oysters that is perfect for sharing. The tasty plate of oyster omelette is only one of the reasons why patrons frequent this stall. Try striking up a conversation with the stall owners and you will find yourself treated to a bout of warm hospitality by them in return!
Feeling peckish after that sumptuous plate of oyster omelette? Try the egg tarts from the nearby Chef Hong H.K. Bakery (#01-131) at only $1 a piece – one of the cheapest in Singapore! Its small size is perfect for the calorie-conscious and if you are looking for other traditional treats, sweet or savoury, you’ll be sure to find something to your liking there.
Hawker centres, as the cornerstone of hawker culture, are scattered all across the tiny island of Singapore and the famous Old Airport Road Food Centre is a timeless classic that is adored by locals.
