The Canteen by Enjoy: Singapore's Addictive Old-School Zi Char with Viral Hokkien Mee

What We Ordered

Hokkien Mee 💰 $15.80 · ⭐ 8.5/10💰 $15.80 · ⭐ 8.5/10

This hokkien mee went so viral during covid (...bleh) and it definitely lives up to the hype! The wok hey flavour is intense, with deep umami from their 6-8 hour prawn-head simmered broth. Make sure to eat it with their sambal for the full experience. One of the better Hokkien mee I've tried recently.

Soy Sauce Chicken 💰 $20.80 · ⭐ 9/10💰 $20.80 · ⭐ 9/10

This was genuinely so good. The chicken was incredibly tender throughout, even the breast pieces which can easily turn dry. The soy sauce wasn't overpowering or too salty, making it perfect with rice. Worth ordering if you're dining in a group.

Prawn Ramen 💰 $15.80 · ⭐ 8/10💰 $15.80 · ⭐ 8/10

Thick, chewy noodles in a rich prawn-head butter broth that's packed with umami. Comes with the usual side toppings like onsen egg and pork lard. Satisfying if you're craving something comforting and indulgent.

Chilli Prawns 💰 $26.80 · ⭐ 8.5/10💰 $26.80 · ⭐ 8.5/10

The prawns were huge and meaty with a good snap, served in a thick, tangy chilli crab-style sauce. The sauce was the highlight here!!! Sweet and savoury, exactly how a good chilli crab gravy would be. The portion was generous enough to share as well.

White Pepper Crab 💰 $38.80 · ⭐ 8/10💰 $38.80 · ⭐ 8/10

Huge chunks of crab meat in a peppery, buttery sauce with strong flavours. There's a slight fishy note that some might find off-putting, but overall still enjoyable. The fact that it comes de-shelled is a huge bonus :p hehe. The mantou served alongside had a nice crispy exterior.

Trio Egg Naibai 💰 $14.80 · ⭐ 8.5/10💰 $14.80 · ⭐ 8.5/10

Creamy scrambled eggs with a rich century egg sauce that coats the well-cooked naibai perfectly. The vegetables soak up all the flavours nicely. A solid vegetable dish to order if you visit.

Wok Hei Cabbage 💰 $12.80 · ⭐ 7.5/10💰 $12.80 · ⭐ 7.5/10

The wok hey flavour is undeniable, though it leans sweeter than I'd prefer. Still enjoyable, but would have preferred it if it leaned more savoury than sweet.

Chendol Panna Cotta Coco 💰 $8 · ⭐ 8/10💰 $8 · ⭐ 8/10

An interesting twist on the classic italian dessert. The coconut flavour could be stronger, but the rich gula melaka saves it. Firm yet soft texture that works well. Not groundbreaking, but a decent way to end the meal.

Overall Thoughts

If you're craving rich, umami-heavy flavours and don't mind paying a bit more for well-executed comfort local food, this spot definitely delivers!

Would I return? Yes. The flavours are so addictive, and there are still other dishes I want to try.