Singaporeans and food – name a more iconic duo, right? We queue for hours, debate the best hawker stalls, and proudly declare our love for local dishes. But what happens when someone confesses they *don’t* like a national favourite? Is it even possible?
What We Usually Makan
Talk to any Singaporean, and food is bound to come up. Our hawker centres are like treasure troves, filled with dishes many consider essential parts of our identity. From Laksa to Chicken Rice, there’s a shared understanding of what constitutes ‘good’ local food. Many dishes are held in such high regard, it’s almost surprising when someone doesn’t share the enthusiasm. Take Ba Chor Mee (BCM) for example; it’s a staple for countless Singaporeans.
- Shared love for hawker culture
- Iconic dishes often seen as national treasures
“Oh wow BCM is what a lot of people think should be classified as a national dish, including myself.”
- General assumption of shared taste preferences
Shocking Food Confessions Revealed
Dig a little deeper, though, and you’ll find surprising opinions. The recent Reddit chats show not everyone is a fan of every famous dish. BCM, Lor Mee, Satay Bee Hoon, Oyster Omelette, even Durian-flavoured treats – they all have people who just don’t get the hype. It’s a reminder that taste is incredibly personal, even when surrounded by passionate foodies. The surprise, and sometimes mild disbelief, from others highlights how strongly we associate certain foods with being Singaporean.
- Ba Chor Mee dislike surprises many
“Let me start mine… 😰 BA CHOR MEE.”
- Lor Mee and Satay Bee Hoon not for everyone
“Lor Mee. I really don’t know why people like it so much.”
“Satay bee hoon. I still don’t quite get bee hoon in a sweet peanut sauce.”
- Dislike for specific textures or ingredients (oysters, starch, peanuts)
“Oyster omelette. Don’t like oysters. Don’t like the goopy lumpy starch…”
- Even Durian treats have detractors
“Durian-things… But durian puffs, cakes, ice cream, drinks, etc.? I’ll pass thanks.”
Okay Lah, To Each Their Own
So, what’s the takeaway? Simply put: it’s okay to not like everything! Singapore’s food scene is massive and diverse, and so are our taste buds. There’s no single ‘correct’ way to be a Singaporean foodie. Instead of getting triggered, maybe see it as a chance to appreciate the sheer variety available. Respecting individual preferences, even if they seem baffling, is key. After all, one person’s ‘never order’ might be another’s ultimate comfort food.
- Accept that taste is subjective
“I don’t know why some get so triggered… To each their own. You cannot convince someone to like it just because you love the dish so much.”
- Appreciate the diversity within Singaporean cuisine
- No need to defend personal preferences
- Focus on enjoying what *you* like
“I like every food that everyone has listed here in the comments lolol.”
