Best Satay in Singapore

What is satay?

Satay in Singapore is one of the most loved hawker foods. It is small pieces of marinated meat on thin bamboo skewers, grilled over charcoal. The marinade often uses turmeric, lemongrass and other spices. These give the meat its yellow colour and its smoky, sweet taste. Satay is a Malay dish, and it is also popular in Malaysia and Indonesia.

What comes with it

A plate of satay usually comes with these sides:

• Peanut sauce: a thick, sweet and lightly spicy sauce for dipping.
• Ketupat: rice cakes cooked inside small woven pouches of palm leaves, then cut into cubes.
• Cucumber and raw onion: fresh, crunchy sides that balance the rich sauce.

Types of meat

Chicken, mutton and beef are the most common choices. Mutton and beef usually cost a little more than chicken. Some stalls also sell pork satay, so check the menu if you avoid pork. Each stall has its own menu board.

How to order satay

Satay is sold by the stick. Many stalls ask for a minimum order, such as 10 sticks. You can usually mix meats in one order. Tell the stall how many sticks of each meat you want, and whether you want ketupat.

For a light snack, 10 sticks shared between two people is a good start. For a full meal, plan on 10 or more sticks each, plus ketupat. Locals often order satay with other dishes from nearby stalls.

Rough prices

Each stick often costs around S$0.80 to S$1.50, depending on the meat. Ketupat is extra. Prices change, so check the menu board before you order.

Where to eat satay in Singapore

East Coast and Bedok

Haron 30 Satay and Alhambra Padang Satay are both in the East Coast & Bedok area. The east is a good choice for an evening of satay. East Coast Lagoon Food Village sits by the sea in East Coast Park. You can walk or cycle along the coast before you eat.

Geylang and Paya Lebar

Kwong Satay is in the Geylang & Paya Lebar area. Geylang Serai Market, in the same area, is a good place to try more Malay food.

City centre

In the city, Lau Pa Sat is well known for satay. In the evening, the road beside it usually closes to cars, and satay stalls set up tables there. Satay by the Bay is a food centre near Gardens by the Bay.

Tips for eating satay

• Go in the evening. Satay is a favourite dinner and supper food. Many stalls are busiest after dark, and some open only later in the day.
• Eat it hot. Satay is best straight off the grill. Some stalls bring the food to you, so tell them your table number.
• Take care with nut allergies. The sauce is made with peanuts. Read Eating at Hawker Centres With Food Allergies before you go.
• Check halal status. If you need halal food, look for the MUIS halal certificate at the stall. MUIS is the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore. See our Halal Food guides for more.
• Clear your table. Return trays and plates after eating. Read Hawker Centre Etiquette in Singapore: 9 Simple Rules for more tips.

FAQs about satay

What is satay served with?

Satay usually comes with peanut sauce, ketupat (rice cakes), cucumber and raw onion.

Is satay halal in Singapore?

It depends on the stall. Many sell chicken, mutton and beef, but some sell pork satay. If you need halal food, look for the MUIS halal certificate shown at the stall.

How many sticks of satay should I order?

Around 10 sticks makes a good snack for two people. For a full meal, many people order 10 or more sticks each, plus ketupat.

Where can I eat satay in the city centre?

Try Lau Pa Sat, where satay stalls usually set up beside the market in the evening. Satay by the Bay is another choice near Marina Bay.

What else should I try with satay?

Try Nasi Lemak, rice cooked in coconut milk. Murtabak, a fried bread stuffed with meat and egg, is another Malay and Indian-Muslim favourite.