Singapore’s hawker centres are known for culinary legends, and at Alexandra Village Food Centre, King Avocado sits among them. Locals and tourists alike make a beeline for this humble stall, not for gimmicks or fads, but for a creamy green drink that’s become a quiet icon—an avocado milkshake with character, history, and texture that tells a story with every sip.
A Legacy That Begins in 1979
Before the rise of Instagrammable foods, King Avocado was already serving its signature shakes. The stall dates back to 1979 and was once located in the Orchard Road area before moving to its current location at Alexandra Village. Behind the counter are Ng Teck Guan and his wife, running the operation with consistency and a personal touch that’s become rare.
Their history gives the drink a foundation that’s more than just trend-driven. This stall predates most food fads and has outlasted many. Its continued presence isn’t based on nostalgia alone—it’s built on daily commitment and loyal followings.
The Signature Shake
King Avocado’s milkshake has three main ingredients: avocado, fresh milk, and evaporated milk. That alone would be enough to win over fans, but it’s the inclusion of gula melaka, or palm sugar, that adds depth. It introduces a caramel-like sweetness that complements the richness of the avocado without overpowering it.
What makes it different?
- Creamier texture: Reviews consistently note its thick, velvety texture that doesn’t slide into being too milky.
- Less sweet: Many prefer the balance, stating it’s not as cloying as its rivals.
- Stronger avocado taste: Instead of masking the fruit, the shake highlights it.
For those seeking variety, a chocolate version is also available. It costs a bit more, but fans swear by the richness it brings.
A Taste That Sparks Debate
The food centre houses multiple avocado stalls, and comparisons are common. Chief among them is “Mr. Avocado,” another fan-favourite just steps away. The rivalry isn’t hostile—it’s the kind that benefits drinkers with choices.
Key differences between King Avocado and Mr. Avocado:
| Feature | King Avocado | Mr. Avocado |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Stronger avocado presence | Milkier and sweeter |
| Texture | Creamier and thicker | Lighter and more diluted |
| Colour | Brighter green | Slightly brownish-green |
Preferences vary. Some favour King Avocado’s richer texture and fruit-forward taste. Others lean toward the sweetness of Mr. Avocado. Either way, King Avocado’s version rarely fades into the background.
Menu and Pricing
Avocado is the main draw, but the stall also offers other juices like soursop and buah long long (golden apple). Those looking for variety can rotate between options, but avocado remains the bestseller.
Price Guide:
- Small: From S$4.00
- Medium: From S$5.00
- Large: From S$9.00
These prices reflect the quality of the fruit, sourced daily and handled carefully.
The Human Element
Beyond the drink, what keeps people coming back is the presence of the owners. Mr. Ng is often mentioned in reviews for his warm smile and kind interaction. The stall may be small, but the service feels personal.
This matters. Regulars aren’t just grabbing a shake; they’re returning to a familiar face, a dependable routine, and a consistent product. Many have seen the stall grow from humble beginnings to what it is today—a quiet institution.
Sourcing and Freshness
Avocados come from Mexico and Australia, while other fruits are imported from nearby regions like Johor. This sourcing approach keeps the quality stable and the texture consistent. There’s no compromise—each shake reflects careful ingredient handling.
Freshness isn’t a claim—it’s a requirement. The avocado texture doesn’t forgive shortcuts. Overripe or underripe fruit shows up in the first sip. King Avocado avoids this trap by bringing in new stock daily.
Location and Operating Hours
Address:
#01-17, Alexandra Village Food Centre, 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 150120
Operating Hours:
9 AM to 10 PM (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
It’s advisable to check in advance, as the schedule can change without notice.
Why It Works
There are no tricks or social media stunts. King Avocado relies on four fundamentals:
- Product consistency
- Personal service
- Longstanding reputation
- Ingredient quality
These aren’t buzzwords—they’re the reason the stall is still thriving after more than four decades.
What Customers Say
The reviews tell a cohesive story:
- “Creamy but not overly sweet. Just right.”
- “I always compare it to Mr. Avocado. This one wins on texture.”
- “The gula melaka adds a dimension I didn’t expect.”
- “I come here every weekend. It’s part of my routine.”
King Avocado hasn’t just earned a customer base; it’s earned loyalty.
Final Thoughts
If you’re heading to Alexandra Village, King Avocado is a must-try not because it’s trendy, but because it’s time-tested. The stall doesn’t chase attention. It earns it with every blended cup. Whether you’re new to avocado shakes or know them well, there’s something here worth tasting.
And if you leave with a brighter day thanks to Mr. Ng’s smile, that’s just part of the experience.
