A host of themed events and culinary workshops are lined up for one of the most popular attractions on Singapore’s calendar this summer, with food lovers flocking to discover the city-state’s rich Malay, Indian and Chinese-influenced cuisine.
The occasion is already attracting strong support from Middle East travelers who converge on the Lion City every year for the festivities. Research has shown that food is a key factor for discerning regional travelers when choosing a vacation destination.
A month-long extravaganza, The Singapore Food Festival celebrates the gastronomy and cultural diversity of the Lion City through a series of lively events.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) already hosted a number of preview events in the Middle East earlier this year to build excitement and drum up anticipation for the world-renowned celebration.
Kicking-off this year’s celebration on 29th June is the popular Singapore Tiger Chili Crab Festival. A trademark dish and local favorite, Chili Crabs are made with hard-shell crabs cooked in thick gravy with a spicy tomato chili base.
The biggest crab feast of its kind, tourists and locals alike will be visiting 30 stalls to sample the many versions of chili crabs and crab-based dishes offering varying degrees of spiciness.
Back by popular demand is the famous ‘Chili Crab Chase!’ whereby visitors can savour the signature dish at any of this year’s participating outlets by picking up a free Chili Crab voucher courtesy of STB from one of the city’s Singapore Visitors Centres.
“Sharing in our nationwide passion for food, The Singapore Food Festival is an ideal time for tourists from the region to come celebrate and experience the tantalizing cuisine that Singapore has to offer,” said Ke-Wei Peh, Area Director, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
Other highlights during the culinary journey include the Yuk! Makan Festival. Set in a traditional Malay palace, flavors of the kampong culture can be savored in an array of halal treats. The evening will be capped off by a weaving contest using coconut palm leaves.
Weekend events such as ‘Tantalizing Treats of Singapore Chinatown’ and ‘Satay Singapura’ are also expected to draw big crowds. Visitors can embark on an interactive food trail exploring hidden shops in the historic Chinatown district, while the Satay festival will display 10 bustling stalls selling various kinds of chicken, beef, and mutton satay.
Topping off the festival at the end of the month is the ‘Singapore Seafood’ event at VivoCity, Singapore’s largest shopping mall. Visitors can indulge in a delectable spread of seafood dishes including shellfish, crabs, prawns, and oysters that will satisfy the palate of any seafood lover.
Culinary workshops and cooking classes will also be available at various venues throughout the city, giving aspiring chefs a chance to create some of their favorite Singaporean dishes.
Commonly referred to as the ‘Food Capital of Asia’, Singapore has become one of the leading gastronomic destinations due to the wide availability of fresh foods and an eclectic mix of spices and ingredients from around the world.
