Did you know that just a stone’s throw from the glitzy malls of Orchard Road lies a building that time seems to have forgotten? Fortune Centre is a quiet, unassuming complex on Middle Road that most shoppers walk right past. Yet, within its walls, you will find one of the most fascinating and diverse food scenes in all of Singapore. It is a place that defies easy categorization, a culinary crossroads where old-school hawkers, pioneering vegetarian restaurants, and vibrant new eateries coexist in perfect harmony. Fortune Centre is a go-to spot for traditional Chinese desserts, specialty waffles, and artisanal breads.
For years, this building has been a well-kept secret among those in the know. It is often labeled as a vegetarian paradise, which it certainly is, but that’s only half the story. The Fortune Centre food offerings provide a genuine slice of Singaporean life, a stark contrast to the polished food courts in nearby malls like Orchard Plaza. Fortune Centre is also known for its affordable prices, making it accessible to a wide range of diners. In this guide, we will pull back the curtain on this hidden gem and show you why it deserves a top spot on your foodie bucket list.
What Makes Fortune Centre Food Special
Fortune Centre’s magic lies in its unique identity. While most buildings in the area have modernized, it has proudly retained its old-world charm. Its location on Middle Road, just a short walk from Bencoolen MRT station and Waterloo Street, places it at the edge of the bustling Orchard Road shopping district. This makes it a surprising and welcome escape from the commercial frenzy.
What truly sets the Fortune Centre food scene apart is its dual personality. On one hand, it is arguably the most important hub for vegetarian restaurants Singapore has to offer, with a strong presence on the first four floors. On the other, it is a treasure trove of affordable and delicious local food, served up by hawkers who have been perfecting their craft for decades. Many eateries here offer a no frills, casual dining experience that emphasizes simplicity and affordability.
Whether you are craving hearty dishes like chicken rice and salted egg chicken, or looking to enjoy fresh pasta and authentic cacio e pepe, Fortune Centre has something for everyone. The presence of nearby temples also contributes to the popularity of the vegetarian restaurants, making it a vibrant food destination at all times of the day. For those who appreciate a good tea to accompany their meals, many eateries here offer a selection of refreshing drinks, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For dessert lovers, don't miss out on exploring the best hawker centre desserts and sweet treats in Singapore that perfectly complement your Fortune Centre food adventure.
New Station Rice Bar and Its Second Outlet: A Local Favorite
One of the most beloved stalls is the New Station Rice Bar, a popular dinner spot on the third floor that is especially busy during dinner time. It is known for its Salted Egg Chicken Rice with Fried Egg, priced at $8.50. This eatery is a second outlet of the famous station snack bar at Orchard Plaza, serving hearty rice bowls filled with flavorful dishes like pork belly, mapo tofu, and chicken katsu. The good mix of local flavors and fresh ingredients makes it a favorite among office workers and students nearby.
Tracy Juice Culture and Chicken Rice: Comfort in a Bowl
For those who prefer heartier soups, Tracy Juice Culture on the first floor offers a standout creamy thick mushroom soup served with mushroom udon and a variety of fresh fruit juices. Tracy Juice Culture is known for its Mushroom Udon, priced at $9.90, which is a fan favorite. Their pumpkin porridge is another silky smooth favorite, perfect for a light but nourishing meal. The menu also includes comforting chicken rice dishes that cater to those seeking wholesome, flavorful meals.
Korean Food and EN Seeds: Healthy and Customizable Dining Options
The second floor is home to EN Seeds, a health-conscious eatery where diners can customize bowls with various bases, proteins, sides, and dressings, with prices starting at $10.80. EN Seeds also offers customizable warm salads, emphasizing healthy eating with fresh ingredients and in-house made sauce options that enhance each dish. Alongside this, Fortune Centre also features authentic Korean food options that bring bold flavors and traditional recipes to the mix, appealing to a diverse crowd.
Nobu Ya and Bodhi Deli: Diverse Dining Atmospheres
Fortune Centre’s dining scene is vibrant and diverse. From Nobu Ya, a popular Japanese izakaya known for its variety of drinks including sake and craft beers, to Bodhi Deli, which serves vegetarian versions of local hawker favorites, the building offers an eclectic range of dining experiences. Nobu-ya is popular for its homely Japanese izakaya dishes and has a daily changing menu. Herbivore offers vegetarian versions of traditional Japanese dishes, including Unagi Maki priced at $15. The seating areas vary from cozy corners to larger communal tables, accommodating both solo diners and groups.
Yat Ka Yan: Traditional Desserts and Sweet Treats
Practical Tips for Exploring Fortune Centre Food
Ready to explore this underrated food haven? Here is everything you need to know.
- Location: Fortune Centre is located at 190 Middle Road, Singapore 188979.
- How to Get There: The easiest way is via MRT. It is a 5-minute walk from Bencoolen Station (Downtown Line) and Bras Basah Station (Circle Line). It is also a short walk from Bugis Station (East-West & Downtown Lines) and Waterloo Street.
- Operating Hours: Most hawker stalls operate from morning until early evening on weekdays, catering to the office crowd. The full-service restaurants are typically open for lunch and dinner, often with a break in between. It is always a good idea to check the specific hours of the restaurant you plan to visit.
- Best Times to Visit: To avoid the biggest crowds, try to visit just before or after the weekday lunch rush (12 PM to 2 PM). Weekends are generally quieter, making it a more relaxed experience.
- Tips for First-Timers: Do not be afraid to explore. Start on the ground floor and work your way up. Bring cash, as many of the smaller stalls do not accept cards.
Conclusion
Fortune Centre is a true hidden gem in Singapore's vibrant food landscape. It stands as a proud testament to the city's ability to hold onto its heritage while embracing the new. It is a place where different cultures, cuisines, and communities intersect, creating a dining experience that is both diverse and deeply authentic.
More than just a Singapore food court, Fortune Centre offers an array of affordable and delicious noodles, rice noodles, and authentic clam noodles, alongside fresh pasta and hearty dishes featuring brown rice and fresh vegetables. Whether you're craving spicy local favorites like char kway teow or looking to savor dishes paired with fragrant chinese wine and fresh cockles, this food haven has something for everyone.
It is a destination that tells a story of family legacies, culinary innovation, and the enduring power of good, honest food. So, the next time you find yourself near Orchard Road, take a small detour. Step into Fortune Centre, indulge in a la carte dining or share full portions with friends, and discover the delicious secrets it has been keeping. You will not be disappointed.
