Whether you’re somehow passing by the far-flung Seletar area or are specifically looking to experience a kampung style eatery, Boh Geh Uncle Canteen lets you fuel up on cheap nosh in a setting that is out of the ordinary, to say the least.
This hotspot amongst taxi uncles, aerospace workers, and adventurous cyclists has been on the grounds of Seletar since it was still a military camp. Here’s what you can expect at the last kampung canteen in Singapore:
True to its name, the owner of the canteen, Mr William Toh, actually has a few missing teeth. Both his children and grandchildren grew up with the canteen, which makes sense considering it has been here since 1969.
Otherwise known as Canteen 398 due to its street address, this eatery humbly comprises 3 stalls selling Malay cuisine, cai png AKA economic rice, and drinks respectively.
Image credit: Faizal Rahman via Google Maps
One of the must-tries is the lontong ($3) from the Malay stall. Their rice cakes are of the lovingly homemade variety, and the dish is topped with kerisik – a tasty garnish of grated coconut that’s dry-toasted in spices.
Image credit: Samuel Chan via Google Maps
The interior radiates old-school charm all over, from the louvre windows to the retro fans, all of which wouldn’t look out of place in your Ah Gong and Ah Ma’s house.
Image credit: Carl Gruenenfelder via Google Maps
For those who seek some authentic kampung vibes, opt for their outdoor seating with umbrella patio tables to give you a real blast to the past. There’s even a swing set for you to chillax after your meal and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Image credit: Alan Heng via Google Maps
Just as the ambience takes you back in time, the prices here do too. The dishes and drinks are priced rather affordably, and you can relish in classic hawker dishes like Nasi Lemak and Mutton Rendang for just $3.50 each.
Image credit: @tay_yh58 via Instagram
Alternatively, you can opt for the Cai Png (from $2.30 for 1 meat, 1 veg) if you’d like the luxury of choosing your sides. Then, wash it all down with a mug of Teh O for only $0.90, or Teh for $1.10.
Image credit: Shaun Chai via Google Maps
Undeniably, Boh Geh Uncle Canteen is quite out of the way or – as many would say – ulu. But for the affordable food and nostalgic vibes, it’s worth a visit. After all, it’s Singapore’s last kampung canteen and we don’t know how long it will stand the test of time before upcoming developments swing in.
Head on down perhaps as a pit stop before your outing to the nearby Seletar Aerospace Park, and you’ll get to see a charm that’s wildly different from the everyday kopitiams we know and love.
Getting there: From Punggol MRT, take bus 117 to the “Sing-China Bldg” stop. Then, walk towards Piccadilly Circus. You can drive here too as there are plenty of lots available.
Address: 398 Piccadilly Road, Seletar Camp, Singapore 798368
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 6am-1.30pm (Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
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Cover image adapted from: Carl Gruenenfelder & Alan Heng via Google Maps
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