Sometimes, the search for the perfect bowl of noodles takes you to places where you least expect it. Which is why I found myself in the far-flung corner of Bukit Batok’s industrial area, after braving an almost two-hour commute there. 

“Noodles worth traveling from (insert neighbourhood in the opposite end of Singapore) to Bukit Batok for” should be Laifaba Authentic Wood-Fired Roast & Noodles‘ tagline. And judging by the bustling crowd at 2pm on a weekday, it seems many think the same. 

First opened in Ann Siang Hill, this note-worthy noodle place has since uprooted itself and set up shop at Prestige Centre, a 10-20 minute bus ride from either Clementi or Bukit Batok MRT stations. 

Its traditional decor screams nostalgia, with the bustle of hungry and boisterous customers reminiscent of a cha chaan teng. Thankfully, service is on point and the staff seem to go the extra mile to make your visit worth the trek. 

Laifaba’s menu consists mostly of noodle and roast meat dishes, with a selection of sharing plates and rice-based mains. The LFB Signature Noodle ($14++) is the star of the show here, featuring the humble wonton mee with an array of leveled-up ingredients, from a generous portion of roast pork and dumplings to even half an ajitama adorned with a mini-Singapore flag. Talk about national pride. 

The noodles are springy and eggy, and well complimented with a decadent top-up of fried pork lard. You can also choose lean, fatty, or both cuts of wood-fired char siew for your noodles.

For an eatery known for its roast meats, I was disappointed to find the lean cut on the dry side, although the staff advised to just go for the mixed cut next time.  

LFB Signature Noodle ($14++)

The wontons stood out the most to me, with generous stuffings of seasoned minced pork meat. Even the soup is noteworthy, with its blend of pork bone and scallops boiled over 12 hours to give it an extra-rich taste. 

Wontons

Laifba’s wood-fired crispy roast pork and BJT charsiew sell out fast, so come early if you’re gunning for their signature meat dishes. Otherwise, fill up with more dry tossed or soup wontons and dumplings. The Tau Pok Meat Pockets ($14++) are a moreish choice and good for sharing. 

Tau Pok Meat Pockets ($14++)

For drinks, I indulged in the HK Milk Tea which was refreshing for the relentless heat. You can customise the sweetness level 

HK Milk Tea

Laifa fully deserves its title of food worth traveling for, although the dishes here are on the pricier side. Still, it’s heartening to find the younger generation stepping up to the charge of innovating and bringing our traditional hawker fare to the next level! 

Address: Prestige Centre, 71 Bukit Batok Crescent, 02-02, 658071
Google Maps
Nearest MRT: Bukit Batok NS2
Opening Hours: 
Tuesday: 11.30am – 3pm 
Wednesday to Friday: 11.30am – 3pm, 6 – 9pm
Saturday and Sunday: 11am – 3pm,  5.30 – 9pm
Closed on Monday

Website / Instagram
Menu

chueonit.