For years, I treated Fortune Centre as a culinary landmark in passing. I knew it was a vegetarian haven, a place where the air hangs thick with the scent of five-spice and herbal broths. But I never took the time to properly explore it. I’d grab a quick bite and leave, ticking off a stall but never understanding the ecosystem of this unique retail and food hub located at 190 Middle Road, Singapore.
This guide is the result of that exploration. It’s not just a list; it’s a curated journey through a building that I believe is one of the most important vegetarian dining destinations in the country. I’ve tried to capture the essence of each place, from its signature dishes to its hidden quirks. I hope it helps you navigate this delicious labyrinth with a little more confidence.
Getting to Know the Vegetarian Food Places at Fortune Centre on Middle Road
Located on Middle Road near Bugis MRT, Orchard Plaza, and Waterloo Street, Fortune Centre is a 20-storey mixed-use building with its first four floors dedicated to retail, forming a vibrant food hub. Its central Singapore location attracts steady foot traffic, supporting diverse food establishments.
Fortune Centre is known for quality vegetarian and plant-based cuisine, offering traditional Asian dishes like hand-pulled noodles and fresh seafood alternatives alongside modern vegan creations. The mix of quick-service counters and sit-down restaurants caters to various dining preferences and budgets.
1. Herbivore (Japanese & Western) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $$
Herbivore holds a special place in my heart as the first restaurant to show me that vegetarian food can replicate the complex flavours of Japanese cuisine with precision. This isn’t your typical mock meat spot. The kitchen is dedicated to authentic Japanese cooking, evident in dishes like the Unagi Stir-Fry Bento ($29++), which features tofu stuffed and glazed with a smoky-sweet sauce that captures the spirit of eel.
The vibe is more of a proper restaurant than a casual eatery—ideal for a sit-down dinner with friends, especially mixed groups of vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The elegant presentation and comforting broths often win over skeptical meat-eaters. It’s pricier than most Fortune Centre food places, but you pay for the technique and full-service experience.
Who Will Love This: A proper sit-down dinner, Japanese food cravings, and introducing non-vegetarians to high-quality meat-free cooking.
Worth Knowing: You’re on a tight budget or looking for a quick, hawker-style meal.
Local Tip: The restaurant can get busy during dinner service. While they don’t seem to have an online reservation system, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to secure a table, especially on weekends.
2. Moon Chay Vegetarian (Vietnamese) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $$
Tucked away on the second floor, Moon Chay offers a refreshing vegan Vietnamese menu, distinct from the usual Chinese vegetarian fare at Fortune Centre. The Signature Vegan Crab Noodle ($12.90) features a rich, clean broth full of complex flavors.
The friendly service enhances the experience, with staff eager to explain dishes like the Signature Broken Rice with Vegan Ribs & Pork Patties ($11.80). This family-run spot is perfect for those seeking lighter, herbaceous meals beyond typical mock meats. Their banh mi is a consistent favorite.
Who Will Love This: Fans of light, fresh Vietnamese food and those tired of heavy vegetarian dishes.
Worth Knowing: Ideal for an affordable meal under $6.
Local Tip: Try the Crispy Vietnamese Pancake (banh xeo), a rare vegetarian find that’s crisp and great for sharing.
3. Xing Hua Vegetarian (Putien/Fujian) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $
Xing Hua is my go-to when undecided, offering a wide range of Putien and Fujian-style dishes served cai fan style where you choose your items. The variety can be overwhelming but perfect for a personalized meal. Many vegetarian dishes include flavorful ingredients like black fungus. I once enjoyed eight items, including satay sticks and braised vegetables, with watermelon juice for about $20.
The food is comforting and focuses on fresh vegetables rather than processed mock meats. It’s allium-free (no onion or garlic), ideal for Buddhist vegetarians. The unit number and hours online vary, so aim for early dinner and find it on the first floor. The satay is worth the effort.
Who Will Love This: Variety seekers, custom meals, and allium-free Chinese vegetarian food.
Worth Knowing: Avoid if you want a modern cafe or consistent hours.
Local Tip: Ask staff for fresh dish recommendations; they’re friendly and helpful.
4. New Green Pasture Cafe at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $$
Located on the fourth floor, New Green Pasture Cafe is a hidden gem offering healthy, organic meals. The Green Pasture Rice Set ($17) combines crunchy greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, and savory sauces for a nourishing and flavorful experience.
The calm atmosphere provides a peaceful break from the busy lower floors. Though pricier than other stalls, the quality of organic ingredients justifies the cost.
Who Will Love This: Health-conscious diners and those seeking a peaceful, organic meal.
Worth Knowing: Not ideal if you want the cheapest or heaviest dishes.
Local Tip: Pre-order special sets via their website to avoid disappointment.
5. Pine Tree Cafe at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $
Pine Tree Cafe serves classic Singaporean comfort food made vegetarian. Highlights include vegetarian nasi lemak with fragrant coconut rice, hearty Hokkien mee, and flavorful curry fish head. Their Hakka Lei Cha Rice ($9) is also a favorite.
The atmosphere is old-school and functional, popular with regulars and temple-goers. The mock “chicken rice” offers comforting textures and nostalgic flavors. It’s a no-frills spot delivering great taste and value.
Who Will Love This: Fans of traditional vegetarian local dishes and hearty meals.
Worth Knowing: Not for those seeking trendy cafes or light meals.
Local Tip: Ask for extra chilli to enjoy their spicy house-made sambal with noodles.
6. Living Wholesome Vegetarian (Thunder Tea Specialist) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $
Living Wholesome is a stall with a singular focus: thunder tea rice, or lei cha. And they do it exceptionally well. When a place specializes in just one thing, you know it has to be good, and their version is one of the best I’ve tried. You have a simple choice between Thunder Tea Brown Rice ($8.50) or bee hoon. I usually go for the brown rice. The tea-based broth is fragrant and nutty, and the bowl comes absolutely stuffed with a generous topping of fresh and preserved vegetables, providing a wonderful mix of textures.
The stall is small, and the opening hours are notoriously short (they close around 2:00 PM), so you have to plan your visit. But it’s worth it. It’s a clean-tasting, healthy, and deeply satisfying meal. I’ve learned not to overthink it; just show up before the lunch rush, pick your base, and enjoy a perfectly balanced bowl of goodness.
Who Will Love This: Thunder tea lovers, a quick and healthy solo lunch, and anyone who appreciates a one-dish specialist.
Worth Knowing: You’re dining with a group of picky eaters who all want different things.
Local Tip: Due to its limited hours, this is strictly a lunchtime spot. Aim to get there by 12:30 PM to ensure you get a bowl before they sell out.
7. Tracy Juice Culture at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $
Tracy Juice Culture stands out at Fortune Centre for its unique mushroom-heavy udon soups and fruit-based curries. The Fruit Juice Curry Udon ($9.90) balances mild sweetness from fruit with savory spices in a creamy broth. Tracy’s Special Udon ($9.90) features a deep, earthy mushroom broth with broccoli, delivering rich umami flavor in a filling, allium-free meal. The seating is limited, but the friendly service and distinctive dishes make it worthwhile.
Who Will Love This: Adventurous eaters, mushroom fans, and those seeking healthy vegetarian options.
Worth Knowing: Not ideal if you dislike mushrooms or prefer simple flavors.
Local Tip: Frozen soup packs and soy meatballs are available for takeaway to enjoy at home.
8. Bodhi Deli (Budget Local Dishes) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $
When I’m looking for a cheap, fast, and delicious vegetarian meal, Bodhi Deli is a top choice. This small third-floor stall serves classic local dishes like Mee Siam and Laksa ($4.80 each) at affordable prices with generous portions and spot-on flavors. Their thick, comforting Lor Mee ($5.20) is perfect for rainy days. Popular vegetarian ingredients like fried beancurd skin add great texture and flavor to their dishes.
This no-frills, allium-free eatery gets busy during weekday lunch; I once waited 45 minutes for mee siam takeaway, but the taste was worth it. It’s a reminder that the best food often comes from humble places. Patience here rewards you with unbeatable value and taste.
Who Will Love This: Budget hunters, classic local dishes under $6, and quick weekday lunches (if timed right).
Worth Knowing: Avoid peak lunch hours if you dislike queuing.
Local Tip: They sell house-made frozen foods like vegetarian dumplings and spring rolls, great for stocking up at home.
9. Mama Patisserie (Bakery) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT (4-min walk)
Price: $
No vegetarian food crawl at Fortune Centre is complete without a stop at Mama Patisserie. This humble first-floor bakery offers a good selection of vegetarian and some vegan breads, pastries, and cakes. The smell of fresh bread is irresistible.
I recommend the Sesame Yam bun ($2.80) for its soft, fluffy texture and mild sweetness. Savoury options like the Char Siew Pizza ($3) make for a quick bite. Vegan choices can be limited later in the day, so visit around 10:00 AM for the best variety.
Who Will Love This: A post-lunch snack, take-home bakes, and satisfying your sweet tooth.
Worth Knowing: Not for those needing a full sit-down meal or extensive vegan desserts.
Local Tip: Grab the fresh Signature Chocolate Bowl ($6.80) if you see it—rich and decadent.
Discover More Fortune Centre Food Places: Yat Ka Yan, Nobu Ya, and New Station Rice Bar
Yat Ka Yan (Desserts) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Yat Ka Yan is a popular traditional dessert shop located on the second floor of Fortune Centre. Known for its wide array of classic sweet treats, it also offers unique twists like the Yammy Chendol and Durian Chendol, which are perfect for those craving something sweet and refreshing after a filling meal.
Nobu Ya (Japanese Izakaya) at Fortune Centre Food Places
Nobu Ya is a bustling Japanese izakaya on the first floor, popular among diners looking for authentic Japanese bar bites paired with a selection of craft beers and sake. Their menu features dishes like yakitori and grilled seafood, all served in a lively atmosphere that complements the food perfectly. The alcohol selection and the vibrant vibe make it a great spot to dine with friends after work.
New Station Rice Bar at Fortune Centre Food Places
Located on the third floor, New Station Rice Bar is a favorite among lunch crowds for its affordable prices and hearty dishes. Known especially for its Salted Egg Chicken Rice served with a perfectly cooked fried egg, and the Handmade Radish Cake Omelette, this eatery offers filling meals that keep diners coming back. Their menu also includes crowd-pleasers like chive pork dumplings, beloved for their juicy filling and fresh chives, making it a must-visit spot for dumpling lovers.
In a Nutshell
Fortune Centre is a microcosm of Singapore’s vegetarian and diverse dining scene. It’s a place of incredible variety, where old-school traditions and modern innovations exist side-by-side. Whether you are a lifelong vegetarian or simply a curious food lover interested in exploring the best Fortune Centre food places, there is something here for you. I encourage you to wander its corridors, follow the queues, and discover your own favourites. This guide is just a starting point; the real adventure begins when you take that first bite.