10 Must-Buy Souvenirs in Singapore – A Local’s Guide

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When I travel, I’m always looking for souvenirs to bring back home. They’re more than just keepsakes—they’re a way to relive the memories of a trip and share a piece of that destination with loved ones.

That’s why, in this guide, I’m sharing 10 must-buy souvenirs in Singapore, all of which are food-related. Because if there’s one thing Singapore is globally renowned for (besides its unforgettable humid weather), it’s its incredible food culture!

While there are plenty of non-food souvenirs available, such as keychains, Merlion figurines, and batik items, I believe that food souvenirs truly capture the essence of Singapore. They bring this foodie paradise’s flavours, experiences, and culture back to your home.

Whether you’re indulging in a jar of kaya or brewing a cup of locally blended tea, these edible mementos are a perfect way to savour the Singapore experience long after your trip.

1. Ya Kun Kaya Spread

Photo: Ya Kun Kaya Toast's Facebook

Kaya is a traditional Singaporean coconut jam made from eggs, sugar, and coconut milk, flavoured with fragrant pandan leaves. This sweet, creamy spread is a breakfast staple in Singapore, typically enjoyed with toasted bread and butter.

Ya Kun Kaya Toast is one of the most popular breakfast chains in Singapore, making the best kaya, in my opinion!

Locals love the rich kaya and butter combination that perfectly balances sweetness and saltiness. I love starting my weekend mornings with Ya Kun—something about their kaya just hits the right spot!

You can find Ya Kun Kaya Spread in supermarkets or at Ya Kun outlets across the island.

2. Traditional Snacks

My favourite childhood snack - iced gem biscuits!

For a dose of nostalgia, Singapore’s traditional snacks are a must-buy. These childhood favourites are loved by locals and bring back memories of simpler times. My personal favourite is iced/fancy gem biscuits.

The biscuit base is plain, slightly sweet, and has a firm texture, while the frosting adds a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness. Each frosting “gem” comes in a variety of vibrant colours—pink, yellow, green, and white—which don’t taste different but bring a playful, eye-catching appeal.

Other popular traditional snacks include:

Wang Wang Rice Crackers

These rice crackers are light, crispy, and slightly sweet, with a delicate umami flavor. The thin layer of sugary glaze on the surface balances perfectly with the subtle saltiness of the cracker, making it an addictive snack that melts in your mouth.

Baby Ball Biscuits

Baby ball biscuits are small, crunchy, and lightly sweetened. They have a dry, airy texture that melts in your mouth, making them a nostalgic snack for many Singaporeans. Their mild flavor makes them perfect for snacking by the handful or as a simple treat for kids.

Muruku Ikan Crackers (Photo: @carrefourtaiwan via Instagram)

Muruku ikan is a savoury snack with a distinctive fish flavour. These crackers are crunchy and seasoned with spices and salt, giving them a bold, umami-packed taste. The slight fishiness combined with the crisp texture makes them a favourite for locals.

Potato Wheels Biscuits

Potato wheels are crispy, airy snacks shaped like tiny wheels. They have a mild potato flavour with a touch of salt, and their fun shape makes them especially appealing to kids. The crunch is light and satisfying, making them a go-to snack for a quick bite or for sharing with friends.

For the best selection, you can find these traditional snacks at local supermarkets, wet markets, or Mustafa Centre.

3. Irvins Salted Egg Fish Skin

Photo: Irvins

By far one of the most sought-after souvenirs, Irvins Salted Egg Fish Skin is a snack that tourists can’t resist grabbing before their flights. Crispy fish skin coated in a rich, salted egg yolk seasoning—it’s addictive, savoury, and slightly spicy.

Irvins also offers salted egg potato chips, but the fish skin remains a favourite. You can find Irvins at their stores across Singapore.

📍LOCATIONS:

I’ve included all locations in my Google Maps list other than the 2 below (which couldn’t be found), therefore I’m sharing them here!

4. Irvins Salted Egg Instant Noodles

Irvins Salted Egg Instant Noodles
Irvins Spicy Salted Egg Instant Noodles

If you love Irvins Salted Egg snacks, why not take your obsession to the next level with their salted egg-flavored instant noodles? These instant noodles are rich, creamy, and satisfyingly spicy.

They’re hard to find outside of Singapore, making them an excellent gift or a special treat for yourself. In fact, many of my friends have shared stories of being asked by their friends abroad to bring some back!

You can easily find Irvins Salted Egg Instant Noodles in supermarkets islandwide!

5. Pandan Cake

Photo: 8days

Pandan is a fragrant leaf used in Southeast Asian cuisine, and its distinct flavour is showcased in Singapore’s iconic pandan cake.

Bengawan Solo, one of Singapore’s oldest and most beloved bakery chains, makes the best pandan cakes—soft, fluffy, and aromatic. Founded in 1979, Bengawan Solo has become a household name.

I’d suggest getting your pandan cakes on your last day in Singapore as it’s a perishable item! Bengawan Solo outlets can be found at major shopping malls and Changi Airport.

Not to worry, I’ve compiled a Google Maps list of all Bengawan Solo outlets for your convenience!

6. Chocoelf

Chocoelf Bespoke Box (Photo: Chocoelf)
Chocoelf's Cafe (Photo: Truly Expat Lifestyle)

Chocoelf is an award-winning chocolate brand created by a Singaporean chocolatier and medical doctor duo. They specialise in healthier chocolates with little to no added sugar, blending Singaporean flavours into their creations.

The must-try flavours include kaya chocolate and durian chocolate. Visit their cafe on South Bridge Road to enjoy a cup of speciality coffee, gelato, and chocolates. You can also browse the full range of Chocoelf’s products at the cafe. 

Alternatively, you can find Chocoelf’s products at various locations shared below:

📍LOCATIONS:

7. Laksa Paste

Sing Long Singapore Laksa Sauce

Laksa is a flavorful noodle dish with a spicy, coconut milk-based soup. To enjoy this dish at home, grab some ready-to-cook laksa paste, a convenient option for recreating this local favourite.

Popular brands like Dancing Chef, Golden Chef and Prima Taste offer authentic flavours, and you can find them in supermarkets across the island.

8. Bak Kut Teh Soup Packs

A1 Bak Kut Teh Soup Pack
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh Soup Pack

Bak Kut Teh, which translates to “meat bone tea,” is a hearty pork rib soup with a peppery broth. It is a beloved local delicacy in Singapore and is especially comforting on a rainy day.

While its bold flavours can be an acquired taste and might not appeal to everyone, it’s worth trying at least once!

For a taste of this comfort food at home, grab these soup packs in Singapore’s supermarkets. Some of the popular ready-to-cook packs that I’ve tried and love are from A1 and Song Fa.

9. TWG Tea

Photo: TWG Tea

Founded in 2008, TWG Tea has become a globally recognised luxury tea brand. Known for its premium packaging and exceptional quality, TWG offers a wide selection of teas. 

Some of its signature offerings include the 1837 Black Tea, a blend infused with sweet berries and anise, and Silver Moon Tea, a green tea with notes of berries and vanilla.

Beyond tea, TWG is known for its delightful tea-infused macarons, which pair perfectly with their aromatic brews. They also offer tea accessories, such as gilded teapots, artisanal tins, and elegant gift sets.

Even though it’s pricier than other options, their products make excellent gifts for others or yourself (spoil yourself!). You can find TWG stores at Changi Airport terminals before your flight in my Google Maps list.

10. The 1872 Clipper Tea Co.

Photo: The 1872 Clipper Tea Co.

For a more affordable option without compromising quality, The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. is another Singaporean tea brand with a rich heritage.

Established in 1872, it is one of Singapore’s oldest homegrown tea brands, deeply rooted in the country’s colonial history. The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. is celebrated for its expertly curated blends that highlight local flavours and international appeal.

Signature flavours like the Singapore Sling Tea capture the spirit of the Lion City with fruity and floral notes inspired by the iconic cocktail. Other popular options include Orchid Bloom, a delicate floral blend, and Straits Chai, a spiced tea reminiscent of traditional chai with a Singaporean twist.

For travellers, their products are lightweight and easy to pack, making them excellent souvenirs or thoughtful gifts for friends and family.

📍LOCATIONS:

You can find The 1872 Clipper Tea Co. products in the following retail outlets in Changi Airport. For locations outside Changi Airport, you can refer to my Google Maps list.

Conclusion

Singapore’s vibrant food culture makes it the perfect destination for picking up unique and memorable souvenirs.

From the comforting sweetness of Ya Kun’s kaya spread to the luxurious elegance of TWG tea and the nostalgic charm of traditional snacks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

These food souvenirs don’t just bring home the taste of Singapore—they carry its essence, its warmth, and its stories. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savouring them yourself, they’re a delicious way to keep the memories of your trip alive.

So, make some room in your luggage and take a little piece of Singapore back with you! I hope you enjoy these snacks and happy shopping!

🗺️ Dora's Google Maps

As mentioned earlier, here is my Google Maps list with the locations of all the must-buy souvenirs in Singapore! I’ve included whatever I could find and hopefully this is extensive enough for you!
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