Tucked away at 133 Tyrwhitt Road, China Taste (中国好味道) serves as a culinary crossroads between Szechuan and Guangzhou traditions. The restaurant answers the call for authentic Chinese food long after most kitchens close. Its late-night hours, approachable pricing, and balanced flavors have earned it a reputation among locals and foodies who want more than just fast food past midnight.
Dual Heritage on a Single Menu
China Taste builds its culinary identity on two of China’s most distinct regional cuisines:
- Szechuan: Known for its bold, spicy, and numbing dishes featuring garlic, chili, and peppercorn.
- Guangzhou (Cantonese): Focused on freshness, subtle seasoning, and ingredient-driven flavor.
Owner Alex tailors these traditions to the Singaporean palate by dialing down the heat without watering down the essence. Every dish feels genuine yet accessible, making the menu wide-ranging without becoming chaotic.
Barbecue Skewers for a Dollar
The barbecue station commands attention before you even sit down. Skewers are the star attraction, and they’re just S$1 each for:
- Mutton
- Beef
- Chicken
- Hotdog
More adventurous eaters will find:
- Sausage wrapped in bacon
- Chicken feet
- Streaky pork
The aroma of smoke and spice from the grill sets the tone for what follows.
Must-Try Dishes
The menu reads like a greatest hits collection of Chinese comfort food, with something for every level of spice tolerance. Here are some of the most talked-about items:
1. Chongqing Fried Chicken (辣子鸡)
Crispy chicken pieces buried under a heap of dried chili and Szechuan peppercorns. It’s spicy, tingly, and addictive.
2. Hunan Steamed Fish (剁椒鱼)
A whole fish blanketed in chopped chili, ginger, celery, and chili padi. It arrives at the table steaming and aromatic. The flesh is moist, soft, and infused with a piquant sauce.
3. Century Egg
A classic that pairs creaminess with umami. Simple, nostalgic, and satisfying.
4. Pig Intestine
Cooked with care and full of flavor. Reviewers note the preparation is cleaner and tastier than many competitors.
5. Sichuan Boiled Fish (水煮鱼)
An oil-rich, pepper-laden broth filled with fish slices that melt in your mouth.
6. Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐)
Soft tofu cubes in a spicy bean paste sauce with minced pork. Well-balanced and served with just the right amount of heat.
7. Yuxiang Pork Slice (鱼香肉丝)
Thin pork strips stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and pickled vegetables in a sweet and tangy sauce. A crowd-pleaser.
Fresh Seafood Done Right
The scallops and oysters stand out. Each is topped with:
- Garlic paste
- Chopped chili
- Spring onions
Presentation is rustic but generous. Diners consistently praise the freshness and portion size, especially for late-night dining.
No-Frills Ambience with All the Flavor
This isn’t a place for chandeliers or curated playlists. China Taste leans into its zi char (cook and fry) aesthetic. You’ll find:
- Open-air prep tables
- Plastic chairs
- Kitchen activity in full view
Instead of polished formality, you get fast service, consistent flavors, and an environment where the food speaks louder than the décor.
Why People Keep Coming Back
Late-night eateries in Singapore often compromise on quality. China Taste doesn’t.
Open Late
Operating until 4:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, it becomes a natural destination for:
- Post-clubbing crowds
- Night shift workers
- Supper seekers
Friendly Staff
Customer feedback consistently praises the team’s attentiveness. Diners note how staff remember repeat visitors and accommodate special requests.
Excellent Value
Budget-friendly pricing, generous servings, and rotating promotions like 1-for-1 deals make this spot reliable and cost-effective. A full meal with drinks rarely breaks the S$20 mark.
What Regulars Recommend
To maximize your visit, consider this order guide:
- Start with skewers — 4 to 6 sticks per person
- Add one seafood dish — scallops or oysters
- Pick a signature spicy item — Chongqing Chicken or Hunan Fish
- Finish with something mild — Century Egg or Mapo Tofu
- Pair with a cold beer or herbal tea
Groups of 3 to 5 can easily share 5 to 7 dishes without overspending.
Who Should Visit
- Foodies searching for late-night authentic Chinese fare
- Diners craving spice and heat
- Groups wanting to try multiple dishes
- Anyone tired of fast food past midnight
China Taste fills a void in Singapore’s late-night food scene with sincerity, spice, and skill. Whether you’re winding down the night or fueling up for the hours ahead, the kitchen at Tyrwhitt Road delivers flavors worth staying up for.
