Nestled in the heart of Bugis at 190 Middle Road, Fortune Centre is a vibrant and eclectic food destination that has quietly become one of Singapore’s best-kept culinary secrets. Visitors will find everything from fresh pasta crafted by artisanal chefs to authentic clam noodles made with fresh clams, showcasing the diversity of Fortune Centre food. The building’s second floor, in particular, has become a hotspot for new eateries, featuring cosy diners and innovative concepts that complement the traditional offerings.
Whether you’re craving chicken katsu from a Japanese eatery or a hearty bowl of noodles, the variety ensures there’s something for everyone. The seating areas are comfortable and welcoming, encouraging guests to linger over their meals and savor every first bite. Fortune Centre’s food scene is not just about the dishes but also the community of passionate chefs and entrepreneurs who bring their unique flavors from other restaurants and culinary backgrounds, including those with roots in Orchard Plaza and beyond.
For a broader taste of Singapore’s vibrant food culture, check out the comprehensive Singapore Hawker Center Guide for Expats on Expat Life Singapore.
What Makes Fortune Centre Food Places Special
Fortune Centre’s charm lies in its authentic, unpretentious atmosphere. Just steps away from the bustling Orchard Road and easily accessible via Bencoolen, Bras Basah, and Bugis MRT stations, the building hums with the energy of local life. Inside, you’ll find a fascinating mix of printing shops, small businesses, and eateries where the focus is squarely on good food and genuine experiences rather than flashy decor or tourist hype.
The food scene here has evolved significantly over the past few years. While Fortune Centre has long been renowned for its vegetarian restaurants, the tenant mix has diversified to include a growing number of Japanese izakayas, bars, and fusion concepts. This expansion reflects a shift toward a more inclusive and varied culinary landscape, attracting a wider audience that includes office workers, students from nearby art schools, and curious expats.
Must-Try Fortune Centre Food: Vegetarian and Local Favorites
Vegetarian and Vegan Highlights
Fortune Centre is arguably one of Singapore’s premier destinations for vegetarian food, boasting a range of eateries that cater to various dietary preferences and needs. Whether you’re a strict vegan, someone avoiding alliums, or simply looking for wholesome plant-based meals, you’ll find plenty to delight your taste buds here.
Pine Tree Cafe: Known for its vegetarian renditions of local dishes, Pine Tree Cafe serves up comforting meals like Hakka Leicha Rice. This dish features a medley of toppings including mock meat, fried beancurd skin, and black fungus, all served with a flavorful green herb broth. The cafe’s focus on authentic textures and flavors makes it a favorite among templegoers and vegetarians alike.
Green Pasture Cafe & New Green Pasture Cafe: These sister cafes emphasize organic ingredients and wholesome meals. Their menus include brown rice sets and a variety of local delights crafted from fresh, pesticide-free produce. Diners appreciate the nourishing quality of their food, which is both satisfying and health-conscious.
Bao Er Cafe: A cozy spot famous for its comforting chicken rice, Bao Er Cafe serves fragrant rice paired with succulent chicken meat and topped with a fried egg. It’s a great choice for those seeking familiar local flavors in a relaxed setting.
En Seeds: This bright and inviting eatery specializes in customizable warm salads made with fresh ingredients, paired with refreshing fruit juices. Popular among office workers and students, En Seeds offers a good mix of protein options like chicken thigh and smoked duck, alongside sides such as hummus and roasted pumpkin.
Tracy Juice Culture: Catering to those with specific dietary needs, Tracy Juice Culture offers vegan and allium-free udon noodles, thick mushroom soup, and a variety of fresh fruit juices. Their mushroom udon, served in a rich, thick broth with shiitake mushrooms and cherry tomatoes, is a standout dish that balances nutrition and flavor.
Herbivore: A pioneer in Japanese vegetarian cuisine in Singapore, Herbivore delights diners with creative plant-based dishes such as unagi stir-fry bento and cold natto soba. The restaurant’s focus on organic ingredients and authentic flavors has earned it a loyal following.
Seva: Seva is an allium-free vegan restaurant offers local favorites like satay and nasi lemak in vegan forms, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions who crave traditional tastes.
Living Wholesome Vegetarian: Living Wholesome Vegetarian is known for its innovative take on Thunder Tea Rice, this eatery serves the dish with bee hoon instead of rice, offering a lighter yet flavorful alternative packed with peanuts, tofu, and blanched vegetables.
Ya Kat Yan (Yat Ka Yan): A beloved dessert cafe, Ya Kat Yan is famous for traditional treats like silky smooth Yammy Chendol and rich Durian Chendol. These nostalgic desserts provide a sweet finish to any meal at Fortune Centre.
Local Comfort Food
Beyond its vegetarian offerings, Fortune Centre is a treasure trove of classic local dishes that are both affordable and delicious. Many stalls cater to office workers and students, offering hearty meals that won’t break the bank.
Fried Chicken and Chicken Rice: Several stalls serve crispy fried chicken paired with fragrant chicken rice topped with a perfectly cooked fried egg. These dishes are comfort food staples that keep patrons coming back.
Nasi Lemak: This iconic dish features coconut rice, spicy sambal, fried egg, and crispy pork belly, delivering authentic flavors reminiscent of traditional Malaysian and Singaporean fare.
Fried Hokkien Mee, Fried Rice, Char Kway Teow: These beloved hawker classics are available at budget-friendly prices, often under $10. The dishes are cooked with wok hei, giving them a smoky, savory depth that locals crave.
Noodles: Fortune Centre offers a variety of noodle options, including bee hoon, rice noodles, and udon noodles. Specialty stalls like Wawa Lala Bee Hoon serve authentic clam noodles with Chinese wine, while others feature fresh cockles in a signature Wawa special sauce. Many noodle dishes come in rich, thick broth infused with ingredients like black fungus and shiitake mushrooms, often garnished with cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
Mapo Tofu and Chive Pork Dumplings: Popular stalls such as Yuen Kee Dumpling and A9 Noodle Dumpling serve these comforting dishes. Yuen Kee is known for its China-famous shrimp and vegetable pork dumplings, while A9 offers affordable handmade dumplings and la mian starting at just $3.
New Station Rice Bar: Opened in March 2024, this eatery has quickly become a favorite for its modern interpretations of Singaporean classics. Signature dishes include Salted Egg Chicken Rice ($8.50) and 48-Hour Sous Vide Beef Rendang ($12), available in both a la carte and full portions.
New Station Rice Bar: A Standout Eatery
New Station Rice Bar embodies the spirit of Fortune Centre—offering quality food at affordable prices in a cozy setting. The salted egg chicken rice here is a crowd favorite, featuring tender chicken coated in a rich, savory salted egg sauce served over perfectly cooked rice. The station snack bar vibe adds nostalgic charm, making it a popular spot for office workers and locals seeking a hearty meal during lunch hours.
Visiting Fortune Centre: Tips for a Smooth Experience
Operating Hours: Most food stalls operate from 11am to 3pm on weekdays, with some opening for dinner time. Evenings and weekends tend to be quieter.
Peak Times: The lunch rush between 12 PM and 2 PM can be intense. For a more relaxed experience, consider arriving before 11:30 AM or after 2 PM.
Payment Methods: While some vendors accept QR code payments, cash remains king, especially at smaller, family-run stalls. It’s best to come prepared with cash.
Etiquette: Use tissues or small items to “chope” (reserve) your table before ordering. Remember to clear your tray and dispose of trash after your meal to keep the space clean.
Conclusion
Fortune Centre is a dynamic and authentic food destination that beautifully blends vegetarian, Japanese, and local cuisines. Nobu-ya offers an authentic izakaya atmosphere beloved by locals, while Pasta & Co impresses with customisable artisanal pasta dishes like cacio e pepe, beetroot fusilli, and squid ink tagliatelle paired with craft beers.
Next time you find yourself near Bugis or Waterloo Street, skip the usual malls and dive into Fortune Centre’s vibrant second and third floors. Follow your nose, explore its hidden gems, and discover a rich culinary tapestry that captures the heart and soul of Singapore’s diverse food scene.
