Ah, the Green Zone of Chinatown Complex Food Centre.
It tends to be the quieter part, a little off the beaten track compared to the busier Orange and Red Zones (and even the blue zone).
I have previously reviewed a couple of stalls there including Xiu Ji Ikan Bilis Yong Tau Fu (still very popular), New Hope Noodles 新望云吞面, Chai Wee Cuttlefish, and The Asian Makanstall.
Di San Dai 第三代, which translates to “Third Generation”, is operated by a friendly father-daughter team.
They used to operate at the famous Bedok 85 Fengshan Food Centre as Zai Fa Fishball Noodles, and have moved to this corner of Chinatown.
After the father suffered an accident and could no longer manage the work alone, his daughter stepped away from her veterinary nursing career to help him continue the family business.
The menu is simple and focused. Noodle choices include Meatball Minced Meat Noodle ($4, $5), and Fishball Minced Meat Noodle ($4, $5) – both available in dry or soup.
I tried the dry Fishball Minced Meat Noodle ($4) with mee kia.
The bowl was straightforward, included with fishballs, slices of fishcake, a small pile of minced pork, fried pork lard, a few bits of spring onion and shallots.
The noodles had the right spring and bite, tossed with a homemade chilli paste that added a smoky depth (I recommend just adding a touch as it can have a strong taste).
If you are looking for a particular style of BCM, the minced pork was on the ordinary side, and the vinegar not overwhelming.
That said, the fishballs were smooth and bouncy.
As for the porridge, you can have your pick of Chicken Thigh Porridge ($5.00, add egg $0.50), Shredded Chicken Porridge with Pork Intestine and Century Egg ($6.00), and Shredded Chicken Porridge ($4.50).
Surprisingly, I preferred the porridge overall. The Chicken Porridge came thick and smooth, carrying the warmth of white pepper and the nutty scent of sesame oil.
A handful of fried shallots, chopped spring onion, and preserved cabbage were sprinkled on top, adding texture and contrast.
The hawkers are helpful in terms of customising the bowls too, adjusting spice, oil, or even the seasoning if you prefer.
It is easy to overlook if you are rushing for the “Top 10” stalls everyone talks about.
But head to this quieter side of the food centre and you can find this humble little stall which serves food with heart.
Di San Dai 第三代 (Fishball Noodle & Porridge)
Chinatown Complex Food Centre #02-057, 335 Smith St, Singapore 050335
Opening Hours: 6:30am – 2pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon
Other Related Entries
Chinatown Complex Food Centre Food Guide
New Hope Noodles 新望云吞面 (Chinatown Complex Food Centre)
Xiu Ji Ikan Bilis Yong Tau Fu (Chinatown Complex Food Centre)
Chai Wee Cuttlefish (Chinatown Complex Food Centre)
The Asian Makanstall (Chinatown Complex Food Centre)
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