🇸🇬 Chuan Kee Live Seafood: A Cheap and Nice Gem in Singapore


Chuan Kee Live Seafood: A Cheap and Nice Gem in Singapore

If you’re a foodie or traveler hunting for a legit seafood spot in Singapore that won’t drain your wallet, let me put Chuan Kee Live Seafood on your radar. This isn’t some overhyped tourist trap—it’s a no-frills, old-school zi char joint that’s been serving up fresh catches since 1975. 

My recent weekend visit was a full-on flavor party, and I’m here to spill the beans (or maybe the soy pudding?) on why this place deserves a spot on your must-eat list.


First Impressions: Chaos, Freshness, and Free Snacks

It’s Saturday night, and Chuan Kee’s Lower Delta branch is packed. Tables spill out from the coffee shop into the industrial estate’s open-air carpark—total full house vibes. I learned the hard way that weekends here are a madhouse, so here’s my first pro tip: make a reservation or show up early, like 5:30-6 PM, unless you’re cool with hovering for a seat. 


We barely snagged a table, and the energy was buzzing—families, friends, and a few solo diners all digging into steaming plates of seafood goodness.


While waiting for our order, I stumbled on a genius perk: free snacks! Popcorn, silky soya pudding, and old-school cup ice cream are up for grabs while you chill. It’s like a little pre-game treat to keep you from gnawing on your chopsticks. 



The Food: Fresh, Affordable, and Oh-So-Good

Let’s talk grub. Chuan Kee’s menu is Chinese zi char through and through—think wok-fried classics and seafood dishes that scream freshness. We kicked things off with the fish steamboat, and holy mackerel (pun intended), the fish was so fresh we got to plop it into the bubbling pot ourselves. The broth was hearty, loaded with veggies and a subtle kick, perfect for slurping between bites of tender fish. Price? Shockingly reasonable for live seafood—nothing here feels like a budget buster.




Next up, the taufu (tofu) was a crispy-on-the-outside, silky-on-the-inside dream, paired with a savory sauce that had me scooping up every last bit. 

Then there was the kou rou pao—braised pork belly served with fluffy buns you wrap the meat into yourself. It’s messy, it’s fun, and it’s stupidly delicious. 



The duck wrapped in lotus leaf was another hit—tender, aromatic, and zero gamey vibes, with a gravy that begged for rice.


And the steamed long clams? Plump, juicy, and kissed with garlic—simple but spot-on.


But wait, there’s more! Tucked in the mix is a satay stall dishing out Thai-style Moo Ping satay that’s an absolute game-changer. These skewers—juicy, smoky, and marinated with that punchy Thai flair—are so delicious and appetizing I could’ve eaten a dozen. Paired with a tangy peanut dip, they’re the perfect starter or side to your seafood feast. It’s a little curveball from the zi char norm, but trust me, it works.

The best part? Everything felt affordable. For a group of four, we stuffed ourselves silly—including those killer satays—for around SGD 20-25 per pax. In Singapore, where seafood can sometimes cost an arm and a leg, this is a steal for “cheap and nice” eats.



𓀛 A Bit of History: From 1975 to Today

Chuan Kee’s been slinging seafood since 1975, starting as a humble stall before growing into the beloved name it is now. With roots in Singapore’s zi char scene, it’s earned nods from local heavyweights like The Straits Times and Makansutra. They’ve got two branches today—one in Toa Payoh and the flagship at Lower Delta—keeping the legacy alive with fresh catches and wallet-friendly prices. It’s not fancy, but it’s got soul, and that’s what keeps folks coming back.



🌟Practical Tips for Your Visit

  1. Book Ahead or Arrive Early: Weekends are chaos—call to reserve or aim for 5:30-6 PM to beat the rush.
  2. Explore the Freebies: Don’t skip the popcorn, soya pudding, and ice cream—they’re a fun bonus while you wait.
  3. Pair with Rice: Dishes like the duck and steamboat shine with a side of fluffy white rice—order some!



🍽 Dietary Options: What’s on Offer?

Chuan Kee isn’t Michelin-starred or halal-certified, but they’ve got options. Seafood lovers are in paradise, and while it’s mostly Chinese-style cooking with a Thai twist from the satay, they offer veggie dishes like stir-fried greens or tofu for vegetarians. Vegan options are trickier—most sauces have fish or oyster elements—so call ahead if you’re strict. No Western, Japanese, or Korean vibes here; it’s all about hearty Chinese fare (and that Thai satay!) you can enjoy for lunch, dinner, or even a late supper (they’re open till 10:30 PM!).



📌 Branch Info, Hours, and How to Get There

  • Lower Delta Branch: 1091A Lower Delta Road, Singapore 169207
    Hours: Daily, 12 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Toa Payoh Branch: 18 Lorong 7 Toa Payoh #01-232, Singapore 310018
    Hours: Daily, 12 PM - 10:30 PM

Note: Hours might shift based on holidays, so double-check online!



📣 Social Media & Delivery Links

Check their socials for updates:

For delivery, try:



📚 What Others Are Saying: A Quick Customer Review Roundup

Scouring the web, here’s the vibe:

  • “Food’s fresh and cheap—crabs are a highlight, but the chilli sauce could punch harder.” (Tripadvisor)
  • “Love the free desserts! Fish steamboat is a must, and portions are generous.” (FoodAdvisor)
  • “Service is fast, but it’s loud and crowded on weekends—come prepared!” (Google Reviews)
    No mention of the satay online yet, but I’d bet it’s a sleeper hit waiting to blow up.



🎯 Conclusion: Worth the Hype?

Chuan Kee Live Seafood is a gem for anyone craving “cheap and nice” eats in Singapore. It’s not perfect—the weekend chaos can test your patience, and it’s not the spot for a quiet date night—but the fresh seafood, killer flavors, and that Thai satay twist make it a win. 

Whether you’re a local foodie or a traveler hunting authentic eats, this place delivers without the fuss. So, what’s your take—would you brave the crowds for a taste of their fish steamboat or those drool-worthy satays? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear!



Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. Prices and availability may vary. Please check with the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date info.





 

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