You know how important it is to find places where your kids can eat happily, burn off some energy, and where you can enjoy an stress-free meal without worrying about messes or crankiness. Here’s our family’s guide to the best family friendly restaurants, cafes, and hawker stalls in Singapore.
Family-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes That Work Well for Kids
1. Prive at Open Farm Community
We discovered Prive at Open Farm Community in Dempsey Hill early on, and it’s become our go-to for a relaxed brunch. The restaurant has a lovely outdoor space with plenty of room for kids to roam safely. The atmosphere is casual, and the menu offers wholesome, farm-to-table options that even picky eaters tend to enjoy — think homemade bread, pasta, and fresh salads.
Why it works: The outdoor space means less worry about noise or mess, and the fresh air keeps everyone happy. Plus, there’s a small play area that keeps the kids entertained while you relax.
Tip: Bring a blanket or picnic mat and sit on the grass if you want a more informal vibe. Also, call ahead to check if there are high chairs — most are available, but it’s good to confirm.
2. The Fabulous Baker Boy
When my kids want comfort food, The Fabulous Baker Boy in Holland Village is a winner. Their hearty sandwiches, soft bread, and kid-friendly pastries like croissants and muffins make for a satisfying meal. They also have a small play corner with coloring sheets, which entertains the kids while you sip on coffee.
Why it works: The casual setting and straightforward menu make ordering easy, and the staff are friendly and accommodating with little ones. Plus, it’s close to Holland Village’s open spaces where kids can run around afterward.
Lesson learned: It gets busy during weekends, so arrive early or be prepared for a short wait.
3. Tiong Bahru Bakery
For a quick, delicious breakfast or snack, Tiong Bahru Bakery is fantastic. Their pastries are flaky and fresh, and the staff are super friendly. They have a few outlets around the city, including at Tiong Bahru Plaza — an accessible spot for families.
Why it works: The small size keeps it cozy, and kids love the sweet and savory options. It’s a good stop before heading to nearby playgrounds or shopping malls.
Tip: Bring a small spoon or napkins — the mess can happen quickly with kids enjoying their croissants!
Best Hawker Stalls for Kids: Tasty, Affordable, and Stress-Free
1. Maxwell Food Centre
No visit to Singapore is complete without experiencing its vibrant hawker stalls. Maxwell Food Centre in Chinatown is one of our favorites. Here, you’ll find iconic dishes like Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Newton Food Centre’s Satay — both are kid-approved and super affordable.
Why it works: The stalls are busy but well-organized, and the variety means even the pickiest eaters can find something they like. The seating is mostly communal, so bring a small foldable table or blanket if you want to sit comfortably with kids.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat.
Challenge: It can get hot and sticky, especially during noon. Bring water, hats, and maybe a cooling towel for the kids.
2. Liao Fan Hawker Chan
If you’re craving affordable Michelin-starred food, Hawker Chan at Chinatown Complex is a must-try. Their soy sauce chicken rice is flavorful and easy for kids to eat. It’s quick, cheap, and delicious.
Why it works: The busy but efficient setup means you can order and eat quickly, avoiding long waits. The flavors are mild enough that even younger children enjoy it.
Lesson learned: It’s best to go during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds and to keep things more manageable with children.
3. Old Airport Road Food Centre
This sprawling hawker centre near the Bukit Timah area is a treasure trove of local delights. Our favorites include the laksa from 328 Katong Laksa and the pig’s organ soup from Ah Hock Hainanese Fish Soup.
Why it works: Plenty of seating, and the diverse stalls mean your family can try different dishes without waiting in long lines. Plus, it’s shaded and has fans, making it more comfortable than some other hawker centres.
Pro tip: Bring wet wipes and paper towels — cleaning up after messy eaters is easier when you’re prepared.
Tips and Lessons Learned for Stress-Free Family Dining
- Plan your meals around off-peak hours — avoid the lunch rush or dinner time if possible. This means shorter lines and less chaos.
- Bring essentials: wet wipes, tissues, small toys, or coloring books to keep kids entertained while waiting.
- Choose outdoor or open-air venues: they tend to be less crowded and more fun for kids to move around.
- Watch out for the heat: Singapore is hot and humid, especially midday. Always carry water, hats, and sunscreen.
- Be flexible: things don’t always go as planned. Sometimes, a quick snack at a hawker stall is all you need before heading to the next adventure.
What to Avoid
- Overly crowded places during peak hours: They can become overwhelming for little ones and stressful for parents.
- Heavy, greasy foods at hawker stalls for very young children — opt for milder, simpler dishes.
- Long walks in the midday sun: opt for indoor or shaded locations instead.
Final Thoughts
Eating out with young children in Singapore doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of planning, choosing the right venues, and being prepared for the weather, you can enjoy delicious meals and fun experiences without too much fuss. Our family’s secret? Mix fun activities with good food, stay flexible, and don’t forget to enjoy the little moments.
Happy exploring (and eating)!
