Discover Dong Lai Shun: A Nostalgic Taste of Signature Curry Chicken

Dong Lai Shun: A Unique Curry Experience

Located in the Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre, Dong Lai Shun Signature Curry Chicken has quickly captured the hearts of diners with its traditional flavors. Run by two middle-aged women, the unique taste comes from the husband of one of them, a chef with over 40 years of experience in hotels and restaurants.

Open from 7 AM to 2 PM, Tuesday to Sunday, this eatery has made a name for itself with a diverse menu and wallet-friendly prices.

Signature Dishes at Dong Lai Shun

One of the standout dishes is the Curry Five Spice Chee Cheong Fun, priced at just S$3 (approximately 52,000 VND) for a small portion. Despite the low price, the serving size is generous enough to satisfy your hunger.

As I savored the curry, I noticed its gentle flavor, slightly sweet with just the right amount of spice. It reminded me of cozy family meals, the kind my mother would cook on rainy days. The chee cheong fun was perfectly cut, soft, and held together well, accompanied by two crispy ngoh hiang pieces that delighted the palate.

Areas for Improvement

While the restaurant has many positives, it does have some areas that could use improvement. The potatoes in the curry were a bit hard and difficult to chew, which may disappoint some diners. Ideally, the potatoes should be softer, perhaps by cooking them separately before adding to the curry.

Highlighting the Chicken Cutlet Curry Rice

Another must-try is the Chicken Cutlet Curry Rice priced at S$5 (about 87,000 VND). This dish exemplifies affordable quality. The hot, fluffy white rice is generously topped with vibrant orange curry and a crispy golden chicken cutlet. Each bite of chicken is tender with a crunchy skin, making it truly irresistible, especially with its familiar flavors.

Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

If you're planning a trip to Singapore and want to enjoy the culinary delights of Dong Lai Shun, here are some essential tips:

Visa: Vietnamese citizens need to apply for a visa to enter Singapore before traveling.
Transportation: There are numerous flights from Hanoi (HAN) and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Singapore, with a flight time of about 2-3 hours.
Cost: A meal at this curry shop starts from just S$3 (approximately 52,000 VND), making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Visiting Hours: It's best to visit from Tuesday to Sunday and avoid Mondays when the shop is closed.

Conclusion

Though it has only recently opened, Dong Lai Shun has quickly become a beloved spot in Toa Payoh. Its unique curry flavors and hearty dishes leave a lasting impression on diners. Be sure to stop by this eatery when you visit Singapore for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Article adapted and edited from: Seth Lui Food