Hong Lim Market & Food Centre remains one of the most established destinations in Singapore for hawker food. Located in Chinatown, this bustling multi-storey complex attracts large lunchtime crowds. People can queue for more than an hour at popular stalls such as Outram Park Fried Kway Teow and Tai Wah Pork Noodle. During a recent visit at around 11:00 am, the queues at the famous stalls were already very long. Therefore, we decided to explore alternative options within the food centre. We noticed a stall named The Noodle Memories.
The Noodle Memories at Hong Lim
Two young Malaysian hawkers operate the stall. They utilize family recipes that span over thirty years of history.
The stall specializes in Malaysia-style handmade noodles. Customers can choose from several noodle types, including Signature Handmade Noodle, Ee Mian, Vermicelli, Mee Tai Bak, and Koka Noodle. The menu board clearly displays all available items and prices.
Prominent local food media platforms, including 8Days and Miss Tamchiak, had featured The Noodle Memories. The physical queue in front of the stall appeared very short. We decided to join the line to order our lunch. However, we soon discovered that the short queue was only for placing orders. A larger group of at least ten customers had already ordered. They were waiting around the stall area for their food to be prepared. Fortunately, we only had to wait for approximately 10 minutes before receiving our food.
Signature Dry Noodles & Specialty Jumbo Noodles
We selected two of their popular dry noodle dishes – Signature Dry Noodles ($4.50) with Poached Egg (Add-on of $0.50), and Specialty Jumbo Noodles ($7.50).
The Signature Dry Noodles was a nicely presented bowl of house-made yellow noodles topped with minced pork, sliced black fungus, fried shallots, and a large piece of crispy fried beancurd skin. We requested the non-spicy version for this specific bowl, so the noodles were tossed in a dark soy sauce blend. The overall flavour profile was mild and savory. Customers could adjust the taste by adding extra soy sauce or chilli suace from the counter.
The handmade noodles had very good texture. They were soft yet retained a distinct springiness. The contrasting textures of the ingredients enhanced the dish. The crunchy black fungus contrasted well with the soft minced meat. The fried beancurd skin was delightfully crisp.
The Specialty Jumbo Noodles was a premium option of the signature version. Poached egg was included and there was a generous portion of fried chicken chop. For this bowl, we selected the spicy version. The house-made chilli sauce provided a substantial fiery kick. The spice level intensified the overall flavor of the dish significantly. We would recommend choosing the chilli option if you are able to tolerate spicy food.
Good food at good price
The Noodle Memories provides a delightful version of pan mee. In terms of value, the pricing is very reasonable for the portion sizes. The basic bowls offer an affordable lunch option. CDC vouchers can be used at the stall.
The business has expanded its reach beyond Chinatown. A second outlet now operates at the Suntec City Food Republic food court.
The Noodle Memories
#02-27 Hong Lim Market & Food Centre
531A Upper Cross Street
Singapore 051531
Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 7am to 4.30pm
Closed on Sunday
Nearby MRT Station: Chinatown (NE4 | DT19)
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