Nestled along Syed Alwi Road, Gar Lok Eating House is an unassuming spot with just two stalls. One of them is The Beef House, a hidden gem serving Hakka dishes for over 25 years. I made my way there on a weekday morning around 11 AM after reading that their popular dishes often sell out by 1 PM, even though they’re supposed to stay open until 5 PM. Thankfully, the dishes I was eager to try were still available—what a relief!
Suan pan zi (abacus seeds) is hands-down my favorite Hakka dish. For starters, I’m a huge fan of yam in all forms—yam buns, yam mooncakes, orh-nee—you name it, I’ll eat it. Add to that the chewy texture of abacus seeds, and it’s pure comfort food for me. I ordered a plate of Suan Pan Zi ($3) and couldn’t wait to dig in.
Now, traditional abacus seeds usually have a small dent in the middle, but the ones here didn’t. It threw me off for a second, but honestly, who cares about aesthetics when the taste is what really matters? The moment I took my first bite, my eyes widened in surprise—the chewiness was out of this world! I’ve never had abacus seeds this satisfying before. The flavors were spot on, perfectly balanced and savory. My sister and I couldn’t stop picking at the plate and ended up playfully fighting over the last few pieces.
Next, I tried the Beef Ball Bee Hoon Soup (available in $3/$4/$5 portions). Let me just say this: these are, without a doubt, the best beef balls I’ve ever had in Singapore. Made fresh by hand daily, they were firm, flavorful, and simply perfect. The broth, slow-cooked with beef and pork ribs, had a beautiful aroma that instantly whetted our appetite. It was light yet incredibly rich in flavor, a delicate balance that’s hard to achieve.
And the chili sauce—oh my gosh, don’t even get me started! Bold, spicy, and packed with aroma, it paired perfectly with the beef balls, elevating each bite to new heights. This bowl of noodles was so comforting and satisfying, I didn’t want it to end.
If you’re a fan of Hakka cuisine or just craving something hearty and delicious, The Beef House is a must-visit. But remember to go early—you definitely don’t want to miss out!
Address: 217 Syed Alwi Rd, Singapore 207776
Hour : Mon to Fri 8am to 5pm , Sat and Sun Closed
