Our Morning Picks from Chinatown Complex

Chinatown Complex is a delightful maze of food stalls, offering an overwhelming variety of options. With rows upon rows of hawker stalls packed into one location, the enticing aromas, sizzling sounds, and sheer number of choices can easily distract you. We visited in the morning and tried two standout stalls: a Taiwanese-style breakfast spot called 1030 Breakfast Shop and a crispy fried chicken stall named Big Dot Chicken. First stop: 1030 Breakfast Shop. This small stall specializes in Taiwanese breakfast that’s simple, hearty, and incredibly comforting. We sampled the Taiwanese egg pancake — soft and slightly chewy with crispy edges, filled with cheese and ham. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for starting the day. The purple rice roll was packed with flavor and filling. Inside, it featured crunchy you tiao, fluffy egg, pickled vegetables, and floss, all tightly wrapped in warm, chewy purple rice. It’s a great option for breakfast on the go, holding together well. We also tried the black sesame toast, which was thick, slightly crisped, and generously spread with black sesame paste. Nutty, mildly sweet, and full of nostalgic flavor, it’s a must-try for black sesame lovers. The menu offers more variety than it initially appears, with other toast combinations, sides, and snacks available. This stall is perfect for a comforting breakfast that’s a bit different from the usual local fare. Next stop: Big Dot Chicken. The irresistible aroma of fried chicken will stop you in your tracks. This stall keeps it simple — fresh, perfectly fried chicken. We tried the chicken cutlet, served hot, golden, and incredibly crispy. The batter was light and well-seasoned, while the inside remained juicy without being greasy. Everything is fried to order, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you choose to pair it with rice or enjoy it on its own, the chicken stands out on its own merit. If you’re craving something crispy and indulgent, this stall delivers. It’s affordable, fast, and straightforward — the kind of comfort food you’ll want to revisit. Overall, this short food trail at Chinatown Complex offered a nice balance — a warm and homey breakfast to start the day, followed by crispy and indulgent fried chicken to end on. While there’s plenty more to explore here, these two stalls are a great starting point if you find yourself wandering through the Smith Street side of the hawker center.