Only Mixed Fish Soup, no takeaways, only disposable bowls.
The first thing you may notice about Mei Xiang Black & White Fish Soup at Berseh Food Centre is the multiple rules displayed prominently around the stall.
There is only one thing on the menu, the Mixed Fish Soup ($6.50), and that is what you have to order.
No takeaways allowed, dine-in only, even though the soup is served in a disposable bowl.
No less rice option, no extra chilli sauce (but you can pay for more), amongst other rules.
The stall operates for a short window during lunchtime from 11:30am and often sells out before the stipulated closing time of 2pm.
This creates a sense of urgency that feeds the queue.
Why ‘black and white’?
This refers to two styles of fish in the soup. The white fish comes as sliced pieces, tender and clean-tasting, while the ‘black fish’ (which is obviously not black) is fried, adding texture and a deeper savoury note.
One thing I noticed about the soup was that, while there was no milky heaviness, it still had body.
The soup also stayed very hot throughout the meal and was shiok comforting (only thing is: be prepared to sweat).
Ginger plays a strong role, as it warms the soup and cuts through any lingering fishiness (but it also announces itself clearly).
I also found quite a lot of cabbage (which I liked) and egg floss. The cabbage was cooked until soft and sweet, absorbing the flavour of the soup.
The egg floss added some richness without turning the dish greasy. The chilli, available on the side, was sharp, slightly tangy and bright.
Diners may find the experience rigid, and I believe some may wonder why takeaway is off the table when plastic bowls are already in use.
Mei Xiang Black & White Fish Soup simply does one thing, its own way, and waits for you to decide if that is enough.
Mei Xiang Black & White Fish Soup
Berseh Food Centre #02-44, 166 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208877
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 2pm (Tues – Fri), Closed Mon, Sat, Sun
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it’s shit.
Overrated stall. I don’t like the salty soup with the egg floss and cabbage more than the fish slices. First and last time eating at the stall. There is another clear fish soup in the hawker centre.
Extremely disappointing experience. The old man at this stall was shockingly rude. He had already prepared the fish and seemed ready to serve, but suddenly changed his attitude — said “not happy” in Chinese and told me to go away for no reason at all. I was completely taken aback, and even nearby customers looked surprised by how unprofessional he was. Totally unacceptable behaviour. With such an attitude, he doesn’t deserve any customers.