Singapore’s dining scene is no stranger to regional Chinese cuisines, but Putian—or Heng Hwa—food stands out with its light, honest flavors and emphasis on ingredient purity. Originating from the coastal city of Putian in Fujian, China, this style of cooking is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Heng Hwa people, many of whom migrated to Southeast Asia. In Singapore, their culinary heritage has grown into a quiet but persistent force—found not just in Michelin-starred chains, but also in hawker stalls and neighborhood eateries.
What Sets Putian Cuisine Apart
Putian cuisine is defined by several core characteristics:
- Fresh Seafood: Clams, oysters, prawns, and fish feature prominently, often cooked simply to preserve natural taste.
- Clean Flavors: Sauces are minimal. Oil and spices take a backseat. Dishes aim for balance and clarity, not boldness.
- Handmade Ingredients: Specialties like Heng Hwa bee hoon and mee sua are prepared through traditional methods like sun-drying or hand-pulling.
- Noodle-Centric: From rice vermicelli to salted wheat noodles, Putian cuisine places strong focus on noodle dishes that carry symbolic meaning, especially during festivals.
Signature Dishes of Putian Cuisine
1. Heng Hwa Bee Hoon
Delicate rice vermicelli, braised in stock with pork, clams, peanuts, seaweed, and vegetables. This dish is both light and satisfying.
2. Putian Lor Mee
Forget the usual thick, dark gravy. This version is clearer, seafood-heavy, and simmered with mushrooms, pork, and silky noodles.
3. Bian Rou Soup
A wonton soup where even the dumpling wrappers are made from pounded pork meat, resulting in an ethereal texture in clear broth.
4. Stir-fried Yam
Yam cubes crisped outside, fluffy inside. Sometimes coated in a barely sweet glaze.
5. Lychee Pork
A sweet-sour dish brightened with lychees. Balanced, not cloying.
6. Mazu Mee Sua
Named after the sea goddess Mazu, this mee sua dish is stir-fried with seafood and vegetables in a thick, rich gravy.
Where to Eat Putian Cuisine in Singapore
You don’t need a white tablecloth to enjoy Putian cooking. Many chefs have brought this cuisine to hawker centers and food courts, serving handmade dishes at friendly prices.
1. Pu Tian Delights
Run by Mr. Wang, formerly of the PUTIEN chain, this stall offers over 20 Putian dishes.
- Recommended: Putian Lor Mee, Xing Hwa Bee Hoon
- Location: Alexandra Village Food Centre, Blk 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1, #01-88, Singapore 150120
- Notes: Affordable and generous portions. Some variation in noodle texture noted, but flavors remain true.
2. Xiao Nong Tian Putian Cuisine
With branches at Far East Plaza, Tampines, and Fu Lu Shou Complex, Madam Qui brings her Hokkien Putian roots to life.
- Recommended: Heng Hwa Bee Hoon, Ma Zu Mee Sua, Lychee Pork, Stir-Fried Yam
- Notes: Full menu of classics. Prices suit casual dining.
3. Ming Chung White Lor Mee
Fourth-generation owner Nicholas keeps traditions alive with a concise, strong menu.
- Recommended: Lor Mee, Fried Bee Hoon, Prawn Rolls
- Location: Buangkok Hawker Centre, 70 Compassvale Bow, #02-K06, Singapore 544692
- Notes: Bee hoon is chewy, aromatic, and richly infused with stock.
4. Heng Hua Restaurant
A no-frills setup serving hearty Heng Hwa dishes, with a loyal following.
- Recommended: Stir-Fried Yam, Fried Bee Hoon, Lor Mee, Tenggui Fish
- Location: Block 748, Yishun Street 72, #01-212, Singapore 760748
- Notes: Simple setting. Comfort food quality. Over a decade in operation.
5. Juxiong Singapore
With its extensive menu and family-friendly vibe, Juxiong suits both newcomers and Putian food fans.
- Recommended: Pu Tian Lor Mee (uses la mian), Pu Tian Mee Hoon
- Notes: Seafood broth is rich. Dry version of bee hoon delivers satisfying chew.
6. Putian Flavour Food
A lesser-known spot with serious flavor credentials.
- Recommended: Fried Hing Wa Beehoon, Putien Fried Noodles, Deep Fried Mackerel
- Location: #01-1350 Blk 121 Hougang Ave 1, Singapore 530121
- Notes: Texture-focused dishes, seasoned with restraint and care.
7. Xinghua Delights – Sembawang
This family-run business goes the extra mile with imported ingredients and fresh seafood.
- Recommended: Xinghua Beehoon, Lor Mee, Bamboo Clams, Salt & Pepper Shrimp
- Location: 7 Jln Legundi, Singapore 759272
- Notes: Strong quality control. Menu includes seasonal specials like tau pok cabbage soup.
Cultural Ties and Community Roots
Putian cuisine in Singapore is more than a culinary curiosity—it is a bridge to heritage. The Heng Hwa people, a minority Chinese dialect group, maintain ties to their Fujian roots through festivals, home cooking, and eateries. Events like the Hinghwa Food and Cultural Festival showcase this lesser-known culture. Many dishes are tied to home-style cooking, offering nostalgia and seasonal variation rather than constant uniformity.
Final Thoughts
Putian cuisine does not rely on theatrics or spice overload. Its draw lies in balance, freshness, and textures that reflect nature, not factory precision. In Singapore, it thrives in quiet corners and modest stalls, celebrated by those who seek comfort in clarity. Whether through silky bee hoon or hand-wrapped bian rou, this cuisine tells its story one bowl at a time.
