Hai Wei Yuan BBQ is more than just a seafood stall at Chomp Chomp Food Centre—it’s a destination. Operating since 1988, this longstanding favourite sits at stall #01-01, right at the entrance. Its reputation has grown steadily thanks to a consistent offering of flavourful seafood, most famously its sambal stingray. Here’s a closer look at what makes this stall a go-to for many hungry Singaporeans and tourists alike.
Why Hai Wei Yuan BBQ Stands Out
Chomp Chomp Food Centre, opened in 1972, is already known as a late-night hub for hawker fare. Amid the smoky stalls and buzzing crowd, Hai Wei Yuan BBQ pulls its weight, drawing queues with its aromatic chilli paste, sizzling grills, and generous seafood portions.
A few features set it apart:
- Location: Prime entrance spot for visibility and easy access.
- Specialisation: A full BBQ seafood menu, headlined by sambal stingray.
- Consistency: Loyal customers praise its cooking standards year after year.
Star Attraction: Sambal Stingray
No visit to Hai Wei Yuan BBQ is complete without ordering their sambal stingray, priced between S$12–S$22.40 depending on size. This isn’t just another hawker dish—it’s a well-executed balance of texture, aroma, and taste.
What makes it stand out:
- Texture: Moist, tender flesh that separates cleanly from the cartilage.
- Cooking method: Uses a stove instead of charcoal, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Banana leaf base: Infuses the fish with fragrance as it grills.
- Toppings: Sliced onions and a wedge of lime finish the dish with sweetness and tang.
Sambal: The Real Game-Changer
The sambal paste here doesn’t try to blow out your palate. It’s a more restrained mix—fragrant, savoury, and umami-rich—compared to other stalls. This version leans into flavour rather than sheer heat, making it ideal for diners who want depth without intensity.
Bonus Touch: A serving of cincalok—a fermented shrimp condiment with shallots, lime, and chillies—often accompanies the stingray. It adds funk, salt, and acidity to complement the sambal.
Supporting Cast: Other Must-Try Dishes
Hai Wei Yuan’s menu extends beyond stingray. Many dishes earn repeat orders from regulars.
1. Sambal Lala (Clams)
Price: Around S$8–S$18.10
The clams are fresh, but it’s the sauce that steals the show. A balance of spiciness, sweetness, and saltiness with a nutty undertone makes the dish addictive. Many diners scoop up leftover sauce with plain rice.
2. Sambal Kang Kong (Water Spinach)
Price: Around S$8–S$9.50
A staple stir-fried dish with varying reviews. Some find it too spicy, while others enjoy the crunchy texture and bold chilli hit.
3. Sambal Sotong (Squid)
Price: Around S$22.40
This dish uses the same sambal as the stingray. The squid is fresh and springy, making it a reliable option.
4. Gong Gong (Sea Snails)
Price: Around S$18.10
Served in large shells, the snail meat is known for its firmness and freshness. A less common choice but well received.
5. Sambal Prawns
Fresh, juicy, and just the right level of doneness. The prawns retain their natural sweetness under the sambal layer. Pro tip: Get one per diner.
6. Stir-Fried Kailan
Unexpectedly one of the most praised dishes. The sauce has received rave reviews, with one diner calling it the best vegetable dish they’ve had at any hawker centre.
7. Other Dishes on the Menu
- Baby kailan
- Sweet potato leaves
- Dou miao (pea shoots)
- Mussels
- Petai (stink beans)
- Salted fish with beansprouts
- Cockles
- Seafood fried rice
- Various omelettes (prawn, onion, etc.)
Planning a Visit: What You Need to Know
Expect to Wait
Queues of 30–40 minutes are standard, even on weekday evenings. On weekends, the wait can stretch longer. This is especially true for stingray orders, which take time to cook properly over the stove.
The Atmosphere
The area around stall #01-01 tends to be particularly smoky, thanks to the constant grilling and sambal frying. Sensitive diners may prefer tables deeper inside the food centre to avoid the thick, spicy air.
Chomp Chomp’s general vibe is loud, packed, and bustling. Open flames and narrow walking paths can make the place feel intense during peak hours.
Pricing
Prices align with hawker centre expectations but can feel slightly higher than average. That said, they’re consistent with other seafood BBQ vendors in Chomp Chomp. Patrons often justify the spend with the freshness and portion sizes.
Service and Operations
- Opens: Friday to Sunday, from 5:00 PM until midnight
- Note: Operating days may vary, and occasional weekday closures happen
- Payment: After food is served
- Prep work begins around 3 PM, with seafood arranged and spices chopped before the evening rush
Halal Status
Hai Wei Yuan BBQ is not halal-certified.
Final Notes
Hai Wei Yuan BBQ isn’t just another stall; it represents a consistent standard in hawker seafood. The sambal stingray remains its signature, but many side dishes carry their own weight. Whether you’re craving squid, snails, or stir-fried vegetables, there’s no shortage of well-executed plates. Expect a wait, prepare for smoke, but know you’ll be rewarded with bold, balanced flavours and a night market experience that stays true to its hawker roots.
