A homey neighbourhood zhi char

Popular plate: It's all about crab—order it with chilli or black pepper chilli.

Noteworthy for: Sin Hoi Sai Eating House is what's known as a zhi char; a term used to describe a wallet-friendly, home-style Chinese eatery.

If you've been wondering what all the fuss about chilli crab is about, Sin Hoi Sai Eating House will spell it out for you—on the plate. There's no air-con and service can be brusque, but it’s the kind of place a local would take you for an authentic Singaporean feed—most have been eating here since they were kids.

On top of the famous crab (confirm the price before you finalise your order—seafood dishes can be expensive), there's a wealth of fried rice and noodle dishes on the menu. The coffee-flavoured spare ribs come highly commended.