Singapore’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is vibrant, and one dish that stands out as an iconic representation of the city-state is the famous chili crab. A true embodiment of Singapore’s blend of flavors and influences, chili crab is a spicy, sweet, and savory dish that brings together fresh crab, aromatic spices, and a luscious sauce that begs to be soaked up with a side of fried mantou buns. Whether you’re a local craving that familiar kick or a traveler on a mission to taste the best of Singaporean cuisine, you’ll find that hunting for the perfect chili crab is an adventure in itself. Here are some of the best spots in Singapore to savor this classic dish—each with its own unique take that makes it worth a visit.
1. Jumbo Seafood: A Classic Favorite
Jumbo Seafood is synonymous with chili crab in Singapore, and for a good reason. Since opening its doors in 1987, Jumbo has earned a loyal following for its consistently delicious seafood dishes, with chili crab being a standout. The sauce here is rich, perfectly balanced between spicy and sweet, with a luscious texture that clings beautifully to the fresh, succulent crab meat. Served with a side of fried or steamed mantou buns, it’s the perfect way to enjoy every last drop of that iconic sauce.
With several locations across Singapore, including its picturesque riverside outlet at Clarke Quay, Jumbo Seafood offers both locals and tourists a memorable dining experience. Enjoying a steaming platter of chili crab while overlooking the Singapore River is an experience that perfectly encapsulates the city’s food culture—delicious, social, and full of life.
2. No Signboard Seafood: A Heritage of Flavor
No Signboard Seafood started as a humble hawker stall in the 1970s and has since grown into one of Singapore’s most well-known seafood restaurants. Despite its name, this establishment is anything but unassuming, boasting a menu filled with tantalizing seafood delights. Their chili crab is a must-try, featuring a tangy, savory sauce that has just the right amount of heat to satisfy spice lovers without overwhelming the palate.
The crab is always fresh, and the sauce is slightly thicker than others, allowing it to cling to the crab meat effortlessly. No Signboard’s chili crab is best enjoyed with a cold beer and a group of friends, making it an ideal choice for a casual yet memorable meal. Their outlet at Esplanade provides a perfect backdrop, with views of Marina Bay adding to the overall experience.
3. Long Beach Seafood: Where Chili Crab Was Born
Long Beach Seafood is often credited as the birthplace of Singapore’s black pepper crab, but their chili crab is equally impressive and worthy of praise. Established in the 1940s, Long Beach has a long-standing history in Singapore’s seafood scene and is famous for its quality and innovative dishes. Their version of chili crab is spicy and bold, with a slightly tangy note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
What sets Long Beach’s chili crab apart is the generous use of aromatic herbs and spices, which add layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. The crab itself is cooked to perfection, with tender meat that is easy to extract. Long Beach’s location on Dempsey Hill offers a relaxed, almost rustic atmosphere that makes it a great spot for enjoying a leisurely dinner with family and friends.
4. Mellben Seafood: A Hidden Gem for Crab Lovers
Mellben Seafood may not be as widely known as some of the bigger names, but it’s a true hidden gem for those in the know. Located in the heartlands of Ang Mo Kio, Mellben offers an unpretentious setting but serves up some of the best chili crab you’ll find in Singapore. Their version of the dish is characterized by a thick, flavorful sauce that’s just the right balance of sweet and spicy, with a hint of smokiness that makes it stand out.
The crabs at Mellben are large, fresh, and full of succulent meat, ensuring a satisfying experience for any seafood lover. In addition to chili crab, Mellben is also known for its claypot crab bee hoon, another iconic dish that has helped solidify its reputation among Singaporeans. Be prepared for a bit of a wait, especially during peak hours, but rest assured that the food is well worth it.
5. Red House Seafood: A Taste of Tradition
Red House Seafood is one of Singapore’s oldest seafood restaurants, having opened its doors in 1976. Known for its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Red House delivers a chili crab that’s rich in flavor and tradition. The sauce here leans slightly sweeter, with a velvety consistency that’s perfect for mopping up with mantou. The use of quality ingredients is evident in every bite, from the tender crab meat to the complex, aromatic sauce.
The Red House outlet at Robertson Quay offers a laid-back riverside dining experience, where guests can enjoy their meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling quay. This makes it a great spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Singapore in a relaxed setting.
6. HolyCrab: A Modern Twist on a Classic
For those looking for a more modern twist on the classic chili crab, HolyCrab offers an exciting dining experience that brings a fresh perspective to Singaporean seafood. Located in the vibrant Bugis neighborhood, HolyCrab is known for its playful take on traditional dishes, and their chili crab is no exception. Their rendition features a sauce that’s robust, with an added kick of heat that makes it particularly appealing to spice enthusiasts.
HolyCrab prides itself on sourcing the freshest crabs available, and their inventive approach to cooking means you’ll find unique flavors that elevate the dining experience. Whether it’s their use of premium ingredients or their creative presentation, HolyCrab delivers a memorable take on this beloved dish while staying true to its roots.
7. Palm Beach Seafood: Dining with a View
Palm Beach Seafood is one of Singapore’s most iconic seafood restaurants, with a history that dates back to 1956. Located along the scenic waterfront at One Fullerton, Palm Beach offers diners a spectacular view of Marina Bay Sands and the city skyline. Their chili crab is one of the highlights of the menu, featuring a rich, savory sauce that is perfectly balanced with just a hint of sweetness.
The crabs are cooked to perfection, with tender, juicy meat that easily pulls away from the shell. Palm Beach also offers an extensive menu of other seafood dishes, making it a great spot for a celebratory meal or a romantic dinner. The combination of fantastic food and breathtaking views makes Palm Beach an ideal destination for those looking to indulge in chili crab with a touch of elegance.
8. Keng Eng Kee Seafood: A Local Favorite
Keng Eng Kee (KEK) Seafood is a family-run establishment that has earned a loyal following for its hearty and flavorful seafood dishes. Located in the Alexandra area, KEK offers a more laid-back and casual dining environment, but the quality of their chili crab rivals that of some of the more upscale restaurants in the city. Their chili crab sauce is thick, with a well-balanced blend of spices and a subtle sweetness that complements the fresh crab.
What makes KEK special is the warmth and hospitality of the family who runs it, which adds to the overall experience of dining there. Their coffee pork ribs and moonlight hor fun are also crowd favorites, making KEK a great choice for those who want to try a variety of Singaporean zi char dishes alongside their chili crab.
9. Eng Seng Restaurant: The Old-School Gem
Eng Seng Restaurant is an old-school favorite that has become legendary among Singaporeans for its fresh and affordable chili crab. Located in the Joo Chiat area, this no-frills spot is all about the food, and their chili crab is consistently praised for its flavorful, spicy sauce and generous portions. The crabs are meaty and cooked to perfection, with a sauce that’s both tangy and mildly spicy.
Eng Seng’s casual and straightforward approach to dining makes it a favorite among locals who are in the know, and it’s common to see lines forming well before the restaurant opens. If you plan to visit Eng Seng, be sure to get there early, as the crabs often sell out fast, and reservations are not accepted. It’s well worth the effort for a taste of classic Singaporean chili crab that’s both authentic and affordable.
The Chili Crab Experience
Chili crab is more than just a dish—it’s an experience that reflects the vibrant food culture of Singapore. The process of cracking open the shells, savoring the sweet and spicy sauce, and soaking up every last bit with a soft mantou bun is one that brings people together, whether locals or visitors. Each of these restaurants offers a unique version of chili crab, showcasing the diversity and richness of this iconic dish.
Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a touch of sweetness, or a blend of both, Singapore has a chili crab spot that will cater to your taste. From well-established favorites like Jumbo Seafood to hidden gems like Mellben, the hunt for the best chili crab is an adventure that’s sure to delight your palate and leave you craving more of this quintessential Singaporean specialty.
