Hwa Eng teochew porridge stall

In case you think I eat at expensive places often after reading my previous blogs, I don't. Most of the time, I either cook at home or eat at local coffee shops. One of the stalls I patronize frequently is Hwa Eng Food Stall.

The name does not give you a clue the type of food that is served here, does it? This family-run stall serves great authentic everyday teochew food, not expensive ones like you find at East Ocean Teochew Restaurant. Located at Block 23, Sin Ming Road, it is popular among people who work in the surrounding area. If you are driving and can only leave office after 12.30 or 1.00pm, park in the MSCP in the adjacent block. There are few car park lots in front of the coffee shop and many drivers double park. Be ready to queue for at least 15 minutes to order during peak lunch hour too.

The female owner is grumpy most of the time but do not take it personally. I think it is just her look and tone of voice when she is focused. Just tell her the number of people eating, order your food, the number of porridge and/or rice, where your table is, and the food will be served shortly. I usually order porridge and ask the owner to add the black sauce.

Last week, I went with a fellow foodie for lunch. We decided to go at 12.00pm before the office lunch crowd came. Managed to park right outside the coffee shop. There was 5 customers in the queue. So I asked my friend to get a table while I queued to order food. Ordered braised tau pok (deep fried tofu puff) and tau kwa (deep fried firm tofu), braised chye buay (stewed salted mustard green), braised cabbage and salted egg. Since it was early, the tau kwa and tau pok hadn't soak the gravy through and through but the flavor was still good. Served with a plate of chili garlic soaked in vinegar. Our lunch cost Sgd5.20 only for two persons...and we were really full.

One of the popular dishes is home-made steamed pork balls. I have only tried it once and was not very fond of it but it is very popular among regulars and runs out by 1.30pm. I prefer the braised pork belly. Oh, the fried pomfret in soya sauce is delicious too.

So, do give Hwa Eng a try. They open on Saturdays too.