Forget the age-old debate – the east side isn’t the undisputed king of Singapore’s hawker scene. Venture westward, and a treasure trove of tantalizing flavors awaits in the vibrant heart of Clementi. From comforting classics to fiery mala explosions, this guide unlocks 10 culinary gems guaranteed to leave your taste buds singing and rewrite your definition of “best side.”

1. Soon Huat Cooked Food: Sesame Oil Symphony

Indulge in a symphony of savory and fragrant with Soon Huat’s Sesame Oil Chicken. Imagine this: fluffy rice drenched in a dark, umami-rich gravy boasting the nutty whisper of sesame. Each tender chicken morsel surrenders to your fork, promising ultimate comfort on a rainy day (or any day, really).

2. Nam Kee Fried Prawn Noodle: A Gravy-licious Punch Clementi Ave 1 Condo

Don’t be fooled by the slight dryness of Nam Kee’s Fried Prawn Mee. Its magic lies in the gravy – a potent concoction that clings to the noodles like a loyal friend, packing a wallop of flavor with every bite. Fresh prawns and squid rings add textural delight, and all you’ll crave is more of that irresistible sambal chili.

3. Yong Fa Hainanese Curry Rice & Curry Fish Head: A Curry Revelation

Move over, watery curries – Yong Fa redefines the genre. Their signature fish head and curry rice boasts a thick, aromatic gravy that dances on the edge of spicy heaven. Each spoonful promises a symphony of richness and heat, guaranteed to leave you yearning for more.

4. Fried Carrot Cake: Old-School Charm, Bite-Sized Bliss

This aptly named stall serves up nostalgia on a plate. Their carrot cake isn’t the mushy kind – it’s a delightful jumble of crispy bits, savory salted radish, and fluffy omelette, bursting with old-school charm in every bite. Be warned, its popularity means early mornings are your best bet for securing this breakfast gem.

5. Spicy Mei Mala Hotpot: Mala that Means Business

Craving mala that sings the true anthem of fiery spice? Look no further than Spicy Mei Mala. Their potent broths, brimming with fragrant herbs and aromatics, aren’t for the faint of heart. But for those who embrace the dance of heat and flavor, this stall promises an unforgettable, lip-tingling experience.

6. Soon Lee Porridge: Comfort in a Bowl

Warm your soul with the 79-year-old legacy of Soon Lee’s Hainanese porridge. Unlike its smooth counterparts, this porridge embraces a comforting thickness, perfect for filling your belly and chasing away chills. Their Pork Porridge is a must-try – a hearty hug in a bowl, made even better with an optional egg for that extra touch of decadence.

7. Chai Ho Satay: Skewers of Satay Heaven

Chai Ho’s satay isn’t just affordable (S$0.45 per stick!), it’s an invitation to satay nirvana. Tender, well-marinated meats meet the perfect char, all generously coated in a luscious peanut sauce that’s the epitome of satay satisfaction. Dunk and devour – pure joy awaits.

8. Kee Hock: Hor Fun Nirvana

Kee Hock may serve all the zi char classics, but their hor fun is legendary. Picture piping hot noodles swimming in a thick, eggy sauce that’s bursting with flavor without weighing you down. Opt for the Beef Hor Fun, Seafood Hor Fun, or Sliced Fish Hor Fun – any choice guarantees hor fun ecstasy at a budget-friendly S$4.50.

9. 2ThumbsUp Hainanese Curry Rice: A Customizable Feast

Sometimes, you just need a classic Hainanese curry rice fix. 2ThumbsUp delivers, offering affordable sets and a la carte options like Hainanese pork chop, chap chye, and braised pork belly. Drench your rice in their thick, fragrant curry – it’s a customizable celebration of comfort food heaven.

10. A-Poh Kitchen: Halal Zi Char Gem

Halal zi char cravings met their match at A-Poh Kitchen. This hidden gem serves up all the zi char favorites, ensuring even our Muslim friends can join the Clementi food fiesta. Assam Curry Fish Head, Salted Egg Prawns, and Crab Meat Vermicelli are just a few of their signature dishes, each promising an explosion of flavor that transcends dietary restrictions.

Clementi beckons, whispering promises of culinary adventures yet to be discovered. So ditch the east-west debate and embark on a journey through this vibrant hawker haven. With each bite, you’ll rewrite your definition of “best side” and discover that Clementi truly is a crown jewel of Singapore’s food scene.