5 Must-Know Singlish Words for Foodies Visiting Singapore

If there’s one thing Singapore is truly famous for, it’s food. This tiny island nation may be small in size, but its food scene is world-class. From Michelin-star hawker stalls to bustling food courts where locals gather daily, eating is more than just a necessity in Singapore — it’s a national pastime.

Singapore’s cuisine reflects its diverse culture, blending Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan influences into bold and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re slurping laksa, digging into Hainanese chicken rice, or trying local snacks like kaya toast, every meal tells a story about the country’s history and people.

But if you really want to experience food like a local, it’s not just about what you eat — it’s also about how you talk about food. That’s where Singlish, Singapore’s unique mix of English, Malay, Hokkien, Cantonese, and Tamil, comes in. You’ll hear it everywhere — at hawker centres, in food queues, and among friends deciding where to eat next.

To help first-time foodies on their Singapore adventure, here are 5 easy Singlish words that will instantly make you feel part of the local makan (eating) culture:

1. Makan

Simply means “to eat.” You’ll hear locals say, “Let’s go makan!” when it’s time for a meal.

2. Shiok

The ultimate word to describe food that’s delicious and satisfying. If a dish makes you smile, it’s shiok!

3. Lah

A classic Singlish expression used to emphasize a point. Example: “This satay is the best lah!”

4. Chope

In Singapore, people reserve tables at hawker centres using tissue packets, water bottles, or umbrellas. That’s called “chope-ing” a seat.

5. Tapao

When you can’t finish your food but don’t want to waste it, just tapao (take it away) to enjoy later.

Whether you’re exploring Singapore’s food scene on your own, these simple Singlish words (and a few Cantonese ones you’ll pick up along the way) will help you order, chat, and blend right in with the locals.

But if you’d rather skip the guesswork and dive straight into the best hawker centres and hidden gems, then joining a Singapore food tour is just the right activity. Not only will you taste iconic dishes, but your guide will also teach you how locals talk, eat, and enjoy food — so you can truly makan like a Singaporean!