Shen Ji Seafood Soup at Alexandra Village Food Centre was once a favorite stop for seafood lovers seeking comforting bowls of rich, flavorful soup. Located at #01-22, this humble hawker stall served steaming bowls that combined fresh ingredients with a broth so satisfying that many regulars called it one of the best seafood soups in Singapore.
Why People Loved Shen Ji Seafood Soup
The secret behind Shen Ji’s popularity was its attention to freshness and a broth that balanced sweetness, umami, and a gentle tang. Every spoonful carried depth, often described as light yet robust, with hints of natural seafood sweetness. The addition of tomato in some versions gave the soup a subtle tang that paired beautifully with the seafood, making it refreshing without overwhelming the palate.
Patrons consistently praised the stall for serving generous portions of fresh seafood and handmade components that elevated every bowl into a comforting meal.
Signature Seafood Soup
A standard bowl came with a variety of seafood that reflected careful selection and preparation. Here is what typically went into it:
- Succulent prawns cooked just right to retain a bouncy texture
- Slices of Batang (Spanish mackerel), known for its firm and mildly sweet flesh
- Fresh clams that added a briny, ocean-like sweetness
- Handmade pork meatballs that were well-marinated, tender, and flavorful
- Optional fish maw in some versions, providing a soft, spongy bite that soaked up the broth beautifully
For those seeking a heartier meal, the soup could be upsized, and the larger portion was generously filled with extra seafood, ensuring a satisfying experience even for bigger appetites.
Thick Beehoon Seafood Soup
Another popular item on the menu was the Seafood Thick Beehoon Soup. The addition of thick beehoon transformed the dish into a more filling option, with the noodles absorbing the rich broth. Regulars appreciated how the soup maintained its “seafoody” flavor without being overly fishy. The balance of flavors made it appealing even to those who usually found seafood broths too strong.
Why the Beehoon Version Stood Out
- Texture balance: The thick beehoon provided a chewy contrast to the soft seafood and meatballs.
- Flavor absorption: The noodles soaked up the broth, creating bursts of flavor in every bite.
- Perfect for lunch or dinner: Many customers considered it a complete meal that did not need additional sides.
What Made Shen Ji Special
Fresh Ingredients
Every ingredient was prepared daily, and the seafood was lauded for its clean taste. The prawns remained sweet and firm, while the fish slices were consistently fresh, showing no hint of fishiness. The clams added a natural depth that only fresh shellfish can bring.
Well-Marinated Components
The handmade pork meatballs stood out for their seasoning and tenderness. Many patrons noted how the seasoning complemented the seafood without overpowering the natural flavors.
Comfort in a Bowl
For many, Shen Ji’s seafood soup was more than just a meal. It represented the warmth of hawker food culture, where a simple soup could bring comfort after a long day. Regular customers often returned weekly, some bringing friends to introduce them to what they considered a hidden gem at Alexandra Village.
Other Related Establishments
There was once a separate restaurant called Shen Ji Seafood Garden, which operated as a zi char (cook-and-fry) style restaurant with multiple branches. Unlike the hawker stall, this restaurant offered dishes such as XO Crab Tang Hoon, Sweet Corn Cream Prawn, and Mongolian Pork Ribs. While they shared the Shen Ji name, they were distinct entities. The seafood soup stall at Alexandra Village remained focused on its signature soup-based offerings.
Customer Reviews and Experience
Positive Feedback Highlighted
- Consistent praise for the fresh seafood and natural sweetness of the broth
- Appreciated for hearty portions and generous upsizing options
- Loved for maintaining quality even during busy hours
Typical Hawker Stall Experience
Customers often queued during lunch hours, but the wait was described as worthwhile. Many recommended pairing the soup with white rice for a complete meal.
Update: Closure of Shen Ji Seafood Soup
Shen Ji Seafood Soup is no longer in operation. The stall, which was most active between 2019 and early 2020, has permanently closed. However, it continues to live on in the memories of food lovers who cherished its flavorful seafood soup and the comforting experience it brought to Singapore’s hawker scene.
