Discover Hakka Leipopo: The Best Lei Cha Spot in Singapore

Introduction to Hakka Leipopo

Hakka Leipopo is a standout destination for lei cha in Singapore, founded by Kumiko Tan, a former piano teacher. Driven by her passion for this dish, she started her business from home and officially opened her first shop at Bukit Merah View Food Centre in 2022. Since then, Hakka Leipopo has expanded to two more locations at One Punggol and Anchorvale Village, but the Bukit Merah branch remains the most trusted and recognized spot.

Menu and Pricing

The menu at Hakka Leipopo is quite straightforward, featuring two main dishes: Hakka Lei Cha and Hakka Yong Tau Foo. Each serving of lei cha is priced at around 5 SGD (approximately 85,000 VND), while the yong tau foo costs 7.20 SGD (around 120,000 VND). Additionally, you can choose between Set A or B, ranging from 8.30 SGD to 11.70 SGD, which includes a variety of side dishes.

I decided to try Set B with brown rice for an extra health boost. Not only was the portion generous, but it was also visually appealing with an array of vibrant green and brown vegetables, including bok choy, green beans, and cabbage. The dish was further enhanced with peanuts and dried shrimp, adding diversity and flavor to every bite.

Exploring the Flavor of Lei Cha

The lei cha at Hakka Leipopo truly impressed me. The fresh, crunchy vegetables provided a delightful, natural taste. I often mix all the ingredients and enjoy it without adding tea, as this allows me to better appreciate the subtle blend of flavors. This dish is particularly lively, not just because of its colors but also due to the freshness of the vegetables.

The accompanying tea is an essential part of the lei cha experience. Here, the tea is made from green tea, nuts, and herbs like basil and mint, creating a light, refreshing flavor that isn’t overwhelming. The vibrant green color of the tea is reminiscent of matcha latte, but it has a unique savory and herbal taste. This is undoubtedly one of the best lei cha teas I have ever tasted.

Flavorful Yong Tau Foo

In addition to lei cha, yong tau foo is another highlight at Hakka Leipopo. I opted for a set of seven pieces, featuring a variety of fillings. The fresh meat fillings were deliciously balanced with salty, sweet, and garlicky notes, and when paired with the tofu exterior, it created a delightful eating experience. I particularly enjoyed the accompanying chili sauce — it was spicy and aromatic, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

For Vietnamese travelers planning a visit to Singapore, trying the lei cha specialty at Hakka Leipopo is an experience not to be missed. To enter Singapore, you will need to apply for a tourist visa, which typically costs between 30-60 USD (depending on embassy regulations). Flight prices from Vietnam to Singapore range from 1,500,000 VND to 3,000,000 VND (round trip). The ideal time to visit is from November to April when the weather is more pleasant and suitable for exploring the city.

To get to Hakka Leipopo, you can take the MRT to Bukit Merah station and then walk a short distance. Be aware that during peak hours, the area can get quite crowded, so it's best to plan your visit accordingly.

Conclusion

Hakka Leipopo is truly an excellent choice for those who love Hakka cuisine. From the delicious flavors of lei cha to the quality of the yong tau foo, everything here offers a memorable culinary experience. If you’ve never tried lei cha before, this is the perfect place to start. I will definitely return to enjoy more delicious dishes in the future.

Article referenced and edited from: Seth Lui Food