We know you should never ask a lady her age, but is Chatterbox as old as Singapore herself?
We know you should never ask a lady her age, but is Chatterbox as old as Singapore herself?Not quite. Chatterbox has been a local fave since 1971, so while it’s not celebrating its 59th birthday along with the red dot, it’s definitely got some serious culinary cred. For over fifty years, this gem has been taking classic hawker dishes and giving them a ritzy twist. History buffs will be intrigued to know that the menu was developed by German executive chef Peter Gehrmann and initially offered three local dishes, including char kway teow, laksa, and Hainanese chicken rice. By doing so, Chatterbox became one of the earliest hotel restaurants here to serve Singaporean cuisine.
Um … has the menu expanded since?
Absolutely! Today there’s an entire lunch and dinner menu with all your Singapore favourites: Seafood Hokkien Mee, Beef Hor Fun, “Hokkien Style” Bak Kut Teh, Chendol – the lot! Chatterbox’s Mandarin Chicken Rice is legendary and considered by many to be the best on the red dot; perfectly roasted, boneless chicken paired with fragrant rice cooked in chicken fat and stock.
With such a big history, how does Chatterbox stay on trend?
Don’t think Chatterbox is stuck in the past! While it sticks to its roots with beloved local classics, it’s been elevating street food to new heights for decades and is constantly adding updated touches. Think wine pairings that complement your chicken rice, king prawns in your fried Hokkien noodles, or cute pop-ups such as pan-fried Pomfret with homemade sambal to keep diners on their toes.
What classics took your fancy?
Their signature Lobster Laksa loaded with Boston lobster, quail eggs, fish cake, thick vermicelli noodles and dried beancurd, served in a flavoursome coconut broth of spices and fresh coconut milk was our favourite (very filling) dish. The rojak came a close second with its mash-up of fruit and vegetables in a sweet prawn paste, finished with ground peanuts and deepfried cucur dang (prawn fritters).
What’s the vibe like?
Vibrant, botanical murals, a lively atmosphere, and a modern twist on classic charm. While Chatterbox has remained located in exactly the same location (inside Hilton Singapore Orchard, and The Mandarin Singapore before it), a more recent makeover has turned it into a fresh, serene and seriously good looking spot. During ANZA’s visit on a rando Wednesday lunchtime, the place with buzzing with a mix of locals and visitors.
How does it justify its hawker food menu at restaurant prices?
Good question! Chatterbox takes those awesome hawker faves and provides them a gourmet upgrade. So while you’re still getting that comforting chicken rice and spicy chilli crab you love, you’re also enjoying high-quality ingredients and expert cooking from master chef Liew Tian Heong who has been protecting Chatterbox’s legacy for 30+ years. Oh, and the portion sizes are M-A-S-S-I-V-E.
Go on, impress us some more …
In August 2006, to commemorate its thirty-fifth anniversary, Chatterbox held a chicken rice eating competition; the winner finished his portion in one minute and eleven seconds. Note: please don’t attempt this while visiting.
Any deals for National Day?
Of course. There’s a special National Day Set Menu from now until 9 August. For just $75++, you’ll get a fabulous five-course feast: a mini-trio of Lemon Butter Prawn, Kueh Pie Tee to start, Chicken Satay, then Mini Bak Kut Teh, Chilli Crab with Mantou. The Mandarin Chicken Rice is your don’t-miss main dish followed by the Signature Coconut Ice-Cream.
And if you’re a fan of crabs, you’re in for a treat. The Chatterbox Crab Fiesta kicks off this month through to October, featuring live crabs cooked three ways for $168 per portion. Choose from the iconic Chilli Crab (August), Curry Crab (Sept), and Black Pepper Crab (October). Each portion comes with eight mini mantous, which makes it great for sharing if you’re feeling kind.
When and why should I visit?
Now is the perfect time, especially with National Day this week. It’s the ultimate spot to celebrate Singapore’s big day, offering a delicious trip through the island’s culinary heritage. Indeed, Chatterbox is not just a restaurant, it’s a piece of Singaporean history not to be missed.
333 Orchard Road, Hilton Singapore Orchard, #05-03, Singapore 238887. chatterbox.com.sg
