Song Fa Bak Kut Teh

Song Fa started life as a humble pushcart in 1969 and has grown into the city's best-loved name for Teochew-style bak kut teh, now with branches across the island. Unlike the dark, herbal Malaysian version, the Teochew style is a clear broth built on white pepper and garlic — light, fiery and deeply warming. Meaty pork ribs fall off the bone, and the soup is refilled free as many times as you like. Order youtiao (dough fritters) to soak in the broth, plus braised pork trotter, salted vegetables and a pot of tea. The New Bridge Road original near Clarke Quay opens from morning, so it doubles as a hearty local breakfast.