Whenever people hear the name Nam Kee Pau, many would immediately think about steamed pau, especially their famous Amy Yip Pau which is honestly one of the biggest pau I have seen so far. The size alone is enough to grab attention before you even take the first bite. But honestly, this place is much more than just a pau shop. Over the years, it has quietly become one of my favourite family hangout places not only for breakfast, but sometimes for lunch or even dinner too. Most importantly, it is one of the few places where both my kids genuinely agree on the food.
Parents will probably understand how difficult it can sometimes be when children have completely different food preferences. One child likes spaghetti while the other prefers soup and rice. Finding a place that satisfies everyone can honestly feel like a challenge sometimes. Somehow, Nam Kee Pau managed to become one of the rare places where both my kids happily agree on the same item — their siew mai (pork dumplings). Every visit, this is almost guaranteed to be ordered without any debate at the table.
Must-Order List at Nam Kee Pau
Siew mai (Pork Dumpling)
This is the one item that has somehow united my two kids, who normally can never agree on what to eat. Getting both of them to genuinely love the same dish honestly feels like a small miracle, and Nam Kee Pau’s siew mai managed to pull it off effortlessly.
Here is the best part: I get six pieces for just $5.50, which works out to less than a dollar per dumpling. The deal is basically buy five, get one free, and at that price. I used to order the cold version from Nam Kee Pau and keep it in the freezer, then simply heat it up whenever I wanted a quick and comforting breakfast. Honestly, it is quite convenient especially on busy mornings when you want something warm and satisfying without needing to travel out. Even after reheating, the food still tastes comforting and enjoyable, which probably explains why I keep going back for it.
The siew mai themselves are juicy, flavourful, and steamed just right. Each dumpling is packed with well-seasoned pork filling that remains tender and satisfying with every bite. The texture is soft without feeling overly mushy.
Loh Mai Kai
Loh Mai Kai at Nam Kee Pau is definitely worth trying. This classic glutinous rice dish is a favourite among many locals, especially for breakfast or a quick hearty snack. It comes with fragrant sticky rice that is soft, slightly chewy, and well-seasoned. It is generously “topped” with tender chicken. the Loh Mai Kai at Nam Kee Pau remains a reliable comfort food choice that never disappoints.
You Mian (Handmade) Noodle Soup
While many people visit Nam Kee Pau for their pau, you will also notice a surprisingly large number of customers ordering their noodle soup. The you mian, which is a handmade noodle, has quietly developed a loyal following among regulars.
The soup itself is light and flavourful. The crispy ikan bilis and well-marinated mushrooms also played a huge part in elevating the bowl. The ikan bilis added a satisfying crunch while the mushrooms brought extra depth to the soup. The handmade noodles also add a nice chewy texture that makes the bowl even more enjoyable. More importantly, the noodles do not have that strong flour smell or raw flour taste that some handmade noodles sometimes carry. Another thing I appreciate is that customers can swap out the noodle type based on their own preference.
Char Siew Pau Bundle Set
If you want to keep things simple, Nam Kee Pau also offer a bundle set which consists of two char siew pau and a coffee. It is a perfect, fuss-free way to start the morning without overthinking your order.
At the end of the day, Nam Kee Pau is not just about paus. It is about comforting food, family moments, affordable meals, and those simple dining experiences that keep people coming back again and again.
Nam Kee Pau has several outlets across Singapore. Do visit their website for the full list of outlet locations and operating hours.
Looking for more affordable meals in Singapore? Check out Budget Eats for wallet-friendly food.
Location:
180 Kitchener Rd, B1-K2, Singapore 208539
You can find directions on HERE
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sun 7:30AM - 9:30PM
