The few quiet streets around Bedok Mall might not be known as a food destination, but the neighbourhood has some good meals on offer. We went to talk to the local to find out more.
Nuraisyah, 20, works at a food stall, always lived in Bedok
Q: What do you like about Bedok?
As I grew up here, I am very familiar with the surroundings and the area in general. It’s nice to live in a place that you know well.
Q: What is your favourite place to eat and what do you normally order?
My auntie has her own stall here, which has really good nasi padang. There are also plenty of food courts within a few blocks, especially the 500+ blocks are good.
Q: Are there any shops that you recommend?
Before we didn’t have a mall and most people had to go to Tampines or elsewhere. All the basic shopping you need you can now find in Bedok Mall.
Q: Why would you recommend the neighbourhood?
Many neighbourhoods in Singapore are very similar, as there are also plenty of food options everywhere. Now that you even have two malls here, it is very convenient for all the people who live here. Hence, it is interesting to see, as it is a typical Singaporean neighbourhood.
Lionel, 26, works in events, has lived in Bedok for 3 years
Q: What do you like about Bedok?
For me it is one of the most accessible places in Singapore. It’s a great place in terms of facilities, food, and the people. Most people in Bedok are very friendly and willing to talk to you.
Q: What is your favourite place to eat and what do you normally order?
My favourite place is Bedok 85, as they have many local delights, such as Hokkien Mee, stingray or sotong. It’s very good for dinner, as during lunch some stalls might be still closed.
Q: Are there any shops that you recommend?
You might not find all the shops that you have in the centre, but you can get everything you need in Bedok.
Q: Why would you recommend the neighbourhood?
I think that convenience is the best part of Bedok. The people are really friendly too, which makes it a perfect neighbourhood to live in.
Jason, 31, works in F&B, grew up in Bedok
Q: What do you like about Bedok?
What is not to like about home? To me Bedok is very convenient, a I have many friends and family here. In a way it’s also well-connected, but also very quiet at the same time.
Q: What is your favourite place to eat and what do you normally order?
Even though Bedok is rather quiet there are many places to eat. I picking one is hard. I like to go to different places and always try new things. In the Bedok 85 Market you can find very tasty Chwee Kueh as well as delicious Satay Bee Hoon. I think it is actually quite famous.
Q: Are there any shops that you recommend?
Besides Bedok Mall there isn’t much going on. However, it covers most people’s basic needs. It is a neighbourhood for living, not for shopping.
Q: Why would you recommend the neighbourhood?
If you like to eat, you should come and explore the different food centres in the area. Bedok 85 should definitely be on your list.
Wei Teng, 28, works in advertising, grew up in Bedok
Q: What do you like about Bedok?
It is a nice place to come home to, as I work in the city. Although the city is fun too, it is nice to come home in the end of the day and have some quiet time.
Q: What is your favourite place to eat and what do you normally order?
As I grew up here, I know some stall owners for many years. I like this kind of connection between people. Even if I don’t come for a while, it will be always the same when I come back. One of my favourites is the BBQ stingray at the Bedok 85 Market. But I also like the food centre at the Bedok interchange.
Q: Are there any shops that you recommend?
I do most of my clothes shopping elsewhere. You don’t have that much choice, besides Bedok Mall.
Q: Why would you recommend the neighbourhood?
I think some foodies would probably enjoy a meal or two. Bedok might not be known for food, like Tiong Bahru or other places, but there are some hidden gems.