A Non-Tourist Trap Guide to Toa Payoh

In today’s instalment of the non-tourist trap guide, we bring you to the old district of Toa Payoh. Here’s what it’s all about:

At first glance, Toa Payoh appears to be nothing more than another heartland area. As the first town to be developed by our Housing and Development Board (HDB), its buildings tend to be dull and old. But do not be fooled by its looks, as hidden beneath its old façade lies exciting activities and food options that are sure to satisfy both the young and old.

History of Toa Payoh

Toa Payoh, which literally translates to ‘Big Swamp’ in Hokkien, describes what this area used to be, before rapid development by the HDB transformed it into the bustling heartland hub that it is today. Its close proximity to town makes it a popular area to live among Singaporeans.

Developed in 1964, Toa Payoh is the second oldest satellite town in Singapore; it played host to prominent national events such as visits by Queen Elizabeth II, and is home to Singapore’s first MRT station. Today, it houses HDB’s headquarters and is home to approximately 105,000 HDB residents.

As Toa Payoh is a mature estate with several facilities and food options:

Things to Eat

Toa Payoh offers a plethora of good eats, from traditional favourites to in-trend food options.

Some prominent local favourites include:

• Hougang 6 Miles Famous Muah Chee
• Chey Sua Carrot Cake
• Swatow Seafood Restaurant
• Soon Heng Rojak
• The Larder’s Café
• Shrove Creamery
• Toa Payoh Lucky Pisang Raja

1. Hougang 6 Miles Famous Muah Chee

Where? 480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, #B1-01 HDB Hub Gourmet Paradise Food Court, Singapore 310480

This muahchee stall has earned its share of loyal customers over the years. The owner insists on making muahchee the traditional way, hand-grinding the peanuts and beating the muahchee. The result is a soft and chewy consistency that cannot be replicated in its factory-made counterparts. It’s no wonder that customers keep coming back for more.

While it may be relatively pricey for a plate of muahchee ($3.50 for a two-person portion), the quality well compensates for the price point. They also offer a black sesame option besides the conventional peanut flavour.

2. Soon Heng Rojak

Where? 480 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, #B1-01 HDB Hub Gourmet Paradise Food Court, Singapore 310480

The barriers located at the side of this stall to guide its queues are testament to how popular and delicious its rojak is. This all-time local favourite draws long lines throughout the day, so be prepared to queue for at least 15 minutes before getting a taste of their flavourful rojak. They are also well known for their generous serving of peanuts, which practically coats the entire dish and gives it a distinct crunch. Definitely a dish not to be missed.

3. Toa Payoh Lucky Pisang Raja

Where? 177 Toa Payoh Central, #01-176 Moon Sun Restaurant, Singapore 310177

Google “Best Goreng Pisang in Singapore”, and this is the first name that pops up. This stall has been around for as long as I can remember, serving delicious snacks at insanely good prices (starting from $1). As their name implies, the signature snack not to be missed is Goreng Pisang (fried banana fritters). Their sweet potato balls are highly recommended as well.

Now that you have filled your tummies with delicious food, let’s take a look at the exciting activities that Toa Payoh has to offer.

Things to do:

• Toa Payoh Town Park
• Dragon playground
• Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery
• Toa Payoh Sensory Park

1. Toa Payoh Town Park

Back in the days, this used to be a popular destination for couples to take their wedding photos. It’s easy to understand why, as the park’s rustic gazebos, pavilions and stone arch bridges seem to paint a romantic scene straight out of a 1970s film. As one of the earliest developed town parks, it is rather small in size. Nevertheless, the architecture is what makes this park stand out among it modern counterparts. It has also been remarkably well-maintained. As people flock to visit newly developed parks around Singapore, escape the crowd by giving this small but beautiful park a visit. Enjoy a simple stroll, or grab your friends and family for a picnic here.

For those of you seeking an instagram-worthy picture, catch a glimpse of the the Toa Payoh Observation Tower. This 27-metre-tall building once offered panoramic views over the area. Today, it remains closed (sadly), but its unconventional hexagonal shape still makes an interesting photo subject.

2. Dragon Playground

Relive your childhood memories by paying a visit to this iconic playground in the heart of Toa Payoh. Part of a series of early playgrounds designed by HDB in the 1970s, it has since been touted a national heritage icon, symbolic of Singapore’s culture. It is also one of the two remaining mosaic playgrounds in Singapore, the other being in Ang Mo Kio.

3. Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery

Commonly off the tourist radar in Singapore, this is an underrated architectural beauty. Built in 1907, it is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Singapore. It was also gazetted a national monument in 1980. The temple boasts intricate Chinese architecture inspired by those in the Fujian province of China. Prepare to be blown away by the grandeur of this monastery, with its elaborately decorated halls and seven-storey high Dragon Light Pagoda.

Toa Payoh – a heartland with timeless charm

With a central location, abundant food options and refreshing activities, it is no wonder that HDB’s pioneer town remains a popular residential area today.

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