The elevator creaks as it carries you up through Fortune Centre, past floors lined with Buddhist supplies and prayer beads. But something unexpected waits beyond the incense shops and meditation cushions. The air shifts — from sandalwood to sizzling garlic, from quiet reverence to the gentle clatter of chopsticks.
Fortune Centre at 190 Middle Road has been Singapore’s quiet keeper of vegetarian tradition since the 1970s. Nestled between Bugis MRT and the golden rooftops of Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, this unassuming mall began as a sanctuary for Buddhist devotees seeking meat-free meals. But time has a way of weaving new stories into old spaces. Today, fortune centre food places showcase a vibrant and diverse food scene, transforming the mall into a culinary destination with a wide range of affordable and international cuisines.
Author’s Note: I’ve refreshed this guide for better readability and added a new feature on Green Pasture Cafe. You might find there are more places to discover at Fortune Centre when you’re ready—there’s no need to rush, just explore at whatever pace feels right for you.
Discover the Best Fortune Centre Food: A Culinary Guide to Singapore’s Hidden Gem
| Restaurant Name | Location | Cuisine Type | Signature Dishes / Highlights | Price Range | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pine Tree Cafe | #02-09/13 | Vegetarian, Local | Vegetarian duck rice, yong tau foo, lei cha, vegetarian nasi lemak | $5–$10 | Tue-Sat 10am–7pm; Mon & Sun till 3pm |
| Hangawi Korean Food | #02-18 | Korean | Bibimbap, Seolleongtang, chive pork dumplings | $6.90–$7.50 | Daily 10am–8:15pm |
| Izakaya Hikari | #03-01 | Japanese Izakaya | Salmon mentaiko donburi, yakimono set, sake selection | $3.90–$20.90 | Mon-Fri 12pm–2:30pm, 5:30pm–10:30pm; Sat 5pm–10:30pm; Closed Sun |
| Nobu-ya | #01-05 | Japanese Izakaya | Yakitori, grilled seafood, salt-grilled yellowtail cheek | Moderate | Mon-Fri 11:30am–1:30pm; Sat 6pm–10:30pm; Sun 5:30pm–10pm |
| Green Pasture Cafe | #04-22 | Organic, Vegetarian | Green Pasture Rice Set, organic salads and soups | $10–$18 | Tue-Sun 10:30am–8:30pm |
| New Station Rice Bar | #03-04 | Zi Char, Local | Salted Egg Pork Rice, Curry Chicken Cutlet Rice with Onsen Egg | ~$8–$9.50 | Mon-Sat 11am–8:30pm |
| Ume San 100 | #02-07 | Japanese Izakaya | Extensive umeshu collection, Angry Asari Soup Ramen | Varies | Mon-Sat 12pm–2:30pm, 5pm–11pm; Sun 11am–2:30pm, 5pm–10pm |
| Herbivore | #01-13/14 | Vegetarian Japanese | Unag Stir-Fry Bento, Miso Ramen, vegetarian char kway teow | Moderate | Daily 11:30am–2:30pm, 5pm–9pm |
| Duke Dessert | #02-06 | Traditional Desserts | Durian Chendol, Sesame Walnut Paste | Affordable | Tue-Sun 12pm–4pm, 5pm–11pm |
| Ya Kat Yan | #02-08 | Traditional Desserts | Yammy Chendol, Durian Chendol | Affordable | Wed-Mon 12:30pm–10pm |
| Sakedokoro Eizaburo | #03-16 | Japanese Donburi | Mega Chicken Karaage Don, Mega Unagi Don | Affordable | Mon-Fri 12pm–2pm, 6pm–11pm; Sat 6pm–11pm |
| Tsumiki | N/A | Japanese Bakery | Shokupan, sourdough | N/A | N/A |
| Tracy Juice Culture | #01-34 | Vegan, Vegetarian | Fruit Juice Curry Udon, Mushroom Udon, fruit juices | Affordable | Daily 9am–6:15pm |
| Red Apple Veggie Café | #04-10 | Vegetarian | Vegetarian satay, rendang, prata, porridge | Affordable | N/A |
1. Pine Tree Cafe: Where Memory Lives in Every Bowl
#02-09/13
Step into Pine Tree Cafe and feel like you’ve traveled back to 1970. The recipes, the ordering style, and the simple satisfaction of patient cooking remain unchanged.
The uncle behind the counter has been serving for over fifty years, expertly preparing vegetarian duck rice that glistens, yong tau foo in clear broth, and jade-green, earthy lei cha made fresh daily. Popular vegetarian sides like fried beancurd skin and mock meat add texture and variety.
The vegetarian nasi lemak, wrapped in banana leaf, features fragrant coconut and pandan rice. Priced at just $6, it’s a hearty meal with a mild, sweet sambal that builds heat gently. Brown rice and other wholesome rice dishes are also available for health-conscious diners.
Highlights:
- Classic dishes like yong tau foo and lei cha made with care
- Vegetarian options including fried beancurd skin and mock meat
- Vegetarian nasi lemak with fragrant coconut rice and mild sambal
Practical Info:
- Location: #02-09/13 Fortune Centre
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–7pm; Monday and Sunday, until 3pm
- Price Range: $5–$10 per dish
The weekend queue mixes temple visitors, foodies, office workers, and tourists—all drawn by the promise of comforting, authentic vegetarian food made with decades of experience.
2. Hangawi Korean Food: Seoul Comfort at Singapore Prices
#02-18
The lunch rush at Hangawi Korean Food is always bustling, yet the staff manage to keep things running smoothly with their warm, efficient service. I found myself drawn to their bibimbap in hot stone bowls, which arrived piping hot with vibrant, fresh vegetables, marinated beef, and a perfectly cooked fried egg that, when mixed together, created a harmonious blend of flavors. The chive pork dumplings here are a delightful surprise—juicy and well-seasoned, they complement the meal perfectly.
Despite the long queue, the wait is absolutely worth it for authentic Korean comfort food at such affordable prices. The menu also features local dishes and grilled dishes that bring a taste of Seoul to Singapore, making Hangawi a favorite among both Korean expats and locals craving hearty, satisfying meals. For those who enjoy craft beers alongside their food, Hangawi offers a casual eatery vibe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The generous portions and fresh ingredients keep me coming back, especially for the comforting salted egg chicken rice and other local delights that balance the Korean offerings.
Seolleongtang, a milky ox bone broth, costs $7.50 and offers rich, comforting flavors with tender beef. The bibimbap ($6.90) comes with fresh vegetables, marinated beef, and a fried egg, mixed just before eating for a satisfying meal. Popular dishes include crispy chicken and fried chicken.
Hangawi is loved by the Korean community and locals alike for authentic, affordable Korean food. The lunchtime crowd includes office workers and students enjoying spicy kimchi stew and bibim noodles.
- Location: #02-18 Fortune Centre
- Opening Hours: Daily 10am to 8:15pm
- Price Range: $6.90 to $7.50
No reservations; expect queues during peak hours. The food is fresh and portions generous, making it a great value for authentic Korean comfort food.
3. Izakaya Hikari: Sake and Stillness on Level Three
#03-01
Take the elevator to the third floor, away from the busy food courts and Buddhist shops. Here, Izakaya Hikari offers a cozy, quiet spot perfect for relaxing meals. With just twenty seats and warm lighting, it’s a place to enjoy good food and conversation.
The salmon mentaiko donburi is a highlight — fresh pink salmon over seasoned rice, topped with flavorful mentaiko, priced at $16.90. This isn’t fast food, but carefully prepared dishes meant to be savored.
Izakaya Hikari’s sake selection is impressive, featuring rare bottles and cold Sapporo from a special machine. They also offer natural wines for something different. Guests are encouraged to order at least two drinks each to enjoy the full experience. Another popular izakaya nearby is Nobu-ya, known for authentic Japanese bar food and a lively atmosphere.
The yakimono set ($20.90) truly impressed me with its simplicity and depth of flavor. The expertly grilled fish arrived perfectly cooked, flaky and juicy, accompanied by fragrant rice, comforting miso soup, and tangy pickles that balanced the meal beautifully.
I also enjoyed the Hikari Cracker ($3.90), a delightful small plate that’s perfect for sharing over drinks. What stood out was the freshness of the seasonal seafood, prepared with authentic Japanese techniques that brought out rich umami notes in every bite. The meal felt wholesome yet satisfying, reminding me of the care and tradition behind each dish. Pairing the food with their thoughtfully curated sake selection elevated the experience further.
Hours and Details:
- Location: #03-01 Fortune Centre
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12pm–2:30pm, 5:30pm–10:30pm; Sat 5pm–10:30pm; Closed Sun
- Price Range: $3.90 to $20.90
- Reservations recommended due to limited seating
During lunch, the atmosphere is casual and work-focused, while dinner feels more intimate and relaxed. The lighting and pace shift to suit the time of day, making Izakaya Hikari a versatile spot for both quick meals and leisurely evenings.
4. Nobu-ya: Tokyo Vibes in Fortune Centre
#01-05
Tucked away on Fortune Centre’s ground floor, Nobu-ya transforms into authentic Tokyo the moment you step inside. Run by chef-owner Nobukawa Yoshiyuki and manager Nobuhiko Sano, both veterans from Fairmont Singapore’s fine dining restaurant Mikuni, this is the real thing — intimate and honest.
By sundown, Nobu-ya spills beyond its original confines into neighboring units and corridor space. At night, Nobu-ya expands into nearby spaces, filling with Japanese salarymen and locals sharing drinks, yakitori, and lively conversation. The menu features smoky yakitori, crispy gyoza, and other umami-rich dishes, capturing Japan’s drinking culture perfectly.
The unspoken rule: this isn’t fast dining. This is where you unwind, let the evening unfold naturally. Service operates on izakaya principles — friendly but unfussy, understanding that good drinking requires good pacing.
Service is friendly but relaxed, encouraging guests to unwind and enjoy the evening at their own pace.
- Location: #01-05 Fortune Centre
- Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am–1:30pm (lunch); Sat 6pm–10:30pm; Sun 5:30pm–10pm
- Price Range: Moderate; great for casual dining and drinks
Nobu-ya proves that authentic izakaya dining thrives even in a mall known for vegetarian food, offering a genuine Tokyo atmosphere and great food to linger over.
5. Green Pasture Cafe: Organic Goodness in a Calm Setting
#04-22
If you find yourself on the peaceful fourth floor, you’ll discover, Green Pasture Cafe is a sanctuary for health-conscious diners seeking organic ingredients and thoughtfully prepared meals. The cafe emphasizes fresh, wholesome dishes that nourish without compromise.
Their Green Pasture Rice Set ($13.90) is a favorite, combining crunchy greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, and savory sauces over a bed of nutrient-rich brown rice. The menu also features hand rolls, fresh pasta, hearty soups, and light bites that showcase seasonal produce and clean flavors.
The atmosphere is peaceful, with minimalist decor and soft natural light, making it an ideal spot for a calm lunch or a relaxed break from the bustle below. While prices are slightly higher than other Fortune Centre eateries, the quality and care in each dish justify the premium.
- Location: #04-22 Fortune Centre
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30am to 8:30pm
- Price Range: $10 to $18
New Green Pasture Cafe stands out as a reliable choice for those who prioritize organic ingredients and a nourishing, filling meal in a tranquil setting, complementing Fortune Centre’s diverse food offerings.
The New Guard: Innovation in Familiar Spaces
6. New Station Rice Bar: Legacy Reimagined
#03-04
Just down the corridor from Izakaya Hikari, New Station Rice Bar represents Fortune Centre’s newest success story. Opened in March 2024 by Chloe Tan, daughter of New Station Snack Bar’s owners from Far East Plaza, this isn’t just expansion — it’s evolution.
The Salted Egg Pork Rice ($8.50) arrives with ceremony deserved by its reputation. The pork chop, tender and encased in a crispy batter, drowns in liquid gold — salted egg sauce that’s more velvet than condiment. A sunny-side egg crowns white rice, its runny yolk waiting to merge with the richness below. This is the dish that built New Station’s legend, now served in Fortune Centre’s quieter halls.
But Chloe brings her own vision too. The Curry Chicken Cutlet Rice with Onsen Egg ($9.50) showcases her innovation — aromatic curry that she crafted with an Indian spice master, thick enough to coat but complex enough to surprise. The onsen egg cuts through the intensity, creating balance where others might pile on heat.
The space occupies two units, much like Pine Tree Cafe — kitchen and counter in one, dining in another. But here, cushioned chairs and thoughtful lighting signal intent: this is zi char for a new generation, respectful of tradition but unafraid of comfort.
Weekday lunches see queues of office workers who’ve discovered what happens when proven recipes meet fresh ambition. The menu changes regularly — Chloe’s restless creativity refuses to settle. Version 2.0, she calls her upcoming revamp, promising more personal dishes to replace traditional zi char classics.
7. Ume San 100: Hidden Japan Behind Vending Machines
#02-07
Walk past the row of Japanese vending machines on the second floor. Notice the one marked “Ume San 100.” Push it. Step into Singapore’s most unusual speakeasy — a Japanese izakaya that houses one of the largest umeshu collections in the island.
This isn’t performance dining. The bottles line simple shelves, the atmosphere warm rather than dramatic. What matters here is what’s in the glass — umeshu from Wakayama, sake from regions whose names food bloggers can’t pronounce. The menu changes seasonally, showcasing different producers, different stories.
The Angry Asari Soup Ramen ($16) anchors the food menu — white miso and tonkotsu broth that justifies the wait, the price, the hunt to find this place. But come for the umeshu. Stay for the realization that some of Singapore’s best kept secrets hide behind the most ordinary facades.
8. Herbivore: Vegetarian Japan Reconsidered
#01-13/14
In a corner of Fortune Centre’s ground floor, Herbivore attempts something remarkable — Japanese cuisine that doesn’t compromise vegetarian principles but doesn’t announce them either. Dark wood furnishings, warm lighting, the quiet confidence of a restaurant that knows exactly what it is.
The Unag Stir-Fry Bento ($28++) arrives looking deceptively familiar — teriyaki “unagi” that convinces before you remember it’s tofu, vegetarian sides that satisfy without apology. The Miso Ramen ($13+) offers QQ noodles in savory broth, topped with vegetarian cha shu that doesn’t try to be meat — it succeeds at being something else entirely.
Open daily 11:30am to 2:30pm, 5pm to 9pm, Herbivore serves the intersection where innovation meets tradition. Among the diverse vegetarian offerings at Fortune Centre, you can also find local favorites like vegetarian char kway teow, highlighting the authentic flavors of Singaporean street food. It’s the most expensive vegetarian option in Fortune Centre, but also the most ambitious.
Other Notable Restaurants in Fortune Centre
Traditional Desserts and Sweet Endings
Duke Dessert (#02-06)
Specializes in traditional Chinese desserts made using family recipes. Their Durian Chendol combines durian puree with chendol jelly and red beans, while the Sesame Walnut Paste arrives in a striking yin-yang pattern and boasts a silky smooth texture. Using high-quality ingredients and house-made components like black sesame paste and coconut milk, Duke Dessert bridges old-world technique with contemporary presentation.
Ya Kat Yan
Ya Kat Yan represents the OG traditional dessert experience at Fortune Centre. Their Yammy Chendol ($5.50) levels up regular chendol with rich yam paste, while the Durian Chendol ($6.20) swaps orh nee for creamy durian puree. This is where Singapore’s sweet tooth memories live — grass jelly, traditional preparations, flavors that haven’t changed because they don’t need to.
The Newest Arrivals (2024-2025)
Sakedokoro Eizaburo
Sakedokoro brings affordable Japanese donburi to Fortune Centre, including a mega chicken karaage don and mega unagi don that redefine portion sizes. Japanese Curry Miyabi, run by a Japanese chef, serves authentic Wagyu curry and pork katsu that transport you directly to Tokyo’s backstreets. These dishes are complemented by a selection of Japanese wine and craft beers, enhancing the dining experience. The donburi bowls are hearty and satisfying, perfect for a substantial meal after exploring Fortune Centre’s diverse food offerings. Visitors can also enjoy chicken katsu curry and mentaiyaki salmon don, popular Japanese dishes that showcase rich flavors and quality ingredients.
Tsumiki
A hidden Japanese bakery run by a Japanese baker, offers legitimate shokupan and sourdough that rivals what you’d find in Shibuya. Little Nonya’s Cookies provides $1 kueh and authentic Peranakan food — proof that Fortune Centre’s multicultural evolution includes Southeast Asian heritage.
Visitors can also enjoy coffee cafe bar experiences here, making it a perfect spot for a quick break. The bakery’s offerings complement the diverse range of fortune centre food, which includes handmade radish cake omelette and char siew pizza, showcasing the blend of traditional and innovative dishes. This vibrant food scene extends to nearby eateries serving rice noodles and glass noodles, as well as specialty items like squid ink tagliatelle and beetroot fusilli, adding to the culinary variety.
Vegetarian Specialists Worth Knowing
Tracy Juice Culture (#01-34)
Proves that health-conscious eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Their wide selection of fruit juices and Fruit Juice Curry Udon Noodles ($9.90) might sound unusual, but the curry gravy made purely from fruits and vegetables delivers surprising depth. The thick mushroom udon features chewy noodles in a thick mushroom soup with a rich, hearty texture, earthy broth, and cherry tomatoes for added freshness and visual appeal.
Red Apple Veggie Café (#04-10)
On the fourth floor, Pine Tree Cafe serves vegetarian satay made with golden mushrooms and a rich vegetarian rendang crafted from lion’s mane mushrooms, offering hearty and flavorful plant-based options. For breakfast, the cafe provides comforting prata and nourishing porridge paired with soya milk, perfect for a wholesome start to temple visits or busy days. These dishes highlight the cafe’s commitment to authentic flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a favored spot among temple-goers and health-conscious diners alike.
Practical Matters
- Location: Fortune Centre sits at 190 Middle Road, Singapore 188979, walking distance from three MRT stations. Bugis remains closest, but Bencoolen and Rochor work too. Street parking exists but fills quickly. The mall’s own parking handles overflow.
- Payment Methods: Most stalls accept cash and local cards. International cards vary by vendor. Mobile payments grow more common but aren’t universal. Bringing cash ensures options.
- Best Visiting Times: Avoid weekend peak hours (12pm-2pm) for shorter queues. Weekday afternoons offer the most relaxed experience. Evening visits work best for Hikari and Ume San 100, less so for the traditional vegetarian establishments.
- Operational Rhythm: The mall operates on Buddhist rhythms; quieter on religious holidays, busier before festivals. But the food flows consistently, maintained by people who understand that hunger doesn’t follow calendars.
A Culinary Mosaic: Vegetarian Delights and Japanese Omakase at Fortune Centre
Fortune Centre offers a gentle introduction to vegetarian-friendly dining, where temple-goers and those curious about plant-based meals might find themselves feeling unexpectedly at home. You might notice dishes like Hakka thunder tea rice and vegetarian nasi lemak—familiar flavours that have been thoughtfully adapted, without the pressure to abandon what you already know you like. It can feel reassuring to discover that many eateries here take beloved Singaporean dishes and quietly transform them into allium-free versions, allowing you to explore at your own pace without having to navigate unfamiliar territory entirely.
The centre holds space for different appetites and curiosities, with Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Western options that don’t ask you to spend more than you’re comfortable with. There’s no need to feel overwhelmed by choice—Japanese cuisine, in particular, seems to settle naturally into the landscape here. You might find yourself drawn to the quieter izakayas and yakitori spots, where grilled dishes feel familiar and approachable. If you’re hesitant about vegetarian Japanese food, places like Herbivore offer gentle introductions through dishes like tofu-based unagi and mushroom udon, prepared without allium ingredients—it helps to know that trying something new doesn’t mean leaving comfort entirely behind.
Beyond Fortune Centre: Flavours That Shape Singapore’s Tables
The quiet ritual of savoring Fortune Centre’s vegetarian bowls or a steaming bibimbap invites curiosity for other stories of taste and tradition. If the subtlety of plant-based cuisine resonates, you may also explore the foods at Cuppage Plaza, where recipes carry generations of memory and meaning.
If you’re looking for something more elevated, step beyond the mall and discover the artistry of omakase, where each piece reflects precision, care, and a dialogue between Tokyo’s markets and the chef’s hands (explore our top omakase picks in Singapore here).
Every encounter, whether with a fragrant lei cha or a meticulously plated donburi, is part of a greater journey through Singapore’s dining landscape—rooted in tradition, elevated by craft, and always worth lingering over.
