Exciting News: Michelin-Worthy Malaysian Seafood Noodles Are Coming to Singapore – Hai Kah Lang Lands at Funan Mall!

If you're a seafood lover in Singapore, get ready to dive into a bowl of briny, umami-packed goodness. Famed Malaysian restaurant Hai Kah Lang, the Michelin Bib Gourmand darling known for its fresh-from-the-sea noodle soups – is officially expanding across the Causeway. Their first Singapore outpost is set to open at Funan Mall this September 2025, bringing affordable, Teochew-inspired flavours to the heart of the Civic District. This isn't just another hawker-style spot, it's a fresh catch in a city where rising costs have waved goodbye to some beloved eateries. In a year that's seen its share of closures, Hai Kah Lang's arrival feels like a welcome wave of optimism and deliciousness.

A Quick Dive into Hai Kah Lang: From KL Streets to Global Tables

Founded in 2022 in Kuala Lumpur's bustling Taman Cheras neighborhood, Hai Kah Lang (which translates to "Seafoot People" in Hokkien, a nod to coastal Teochew roots) started as a humble seafood noodle specialist. What began as one outlet has ballooned to eight across Malaysia, including spots in Johor Bahru and even Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2. Their flagship KL branch snagged the Michelin Bib Gourmand for three straight years (2023–2025), an award celebrating "value-for-money" gems with simple, crowd-pleasing dishes that won't break the bank.

The magic? Ultra-fresh seafood sourced mostly from northern Borneo's waters, simmered in broths infused with Huadiao wine for that signature sweet-salty depth. No MSG overload here. just the subtle nuances of the sea, as reviewers rave about its "spot-on clear soup" and "impeccable freshness." It's pork-free, making it a hit for diverse diets, and the portions? Generous enough to share (or not).

Must-Try Dishes: What to Slurp Up at the Funan Branch

Expect the full Hai Kah Lang lineup, blending noodle soups with addictive sides. Here's a sneak peek at crowd favourites that'll have you queuing before the doors even open:

- Mixed Seafood Noodles: A massive bowl loaded with crab, prawns, squid, fish slices, clams, and laver seaweed in a fish bone broth kissed by Huadiao wine. The ultimate "seafood bomb", fresh, aromatic, and slurpable. Perfect for first-timers. Approx. Price: SGD $8–12

- Leopard Coral Grouper Mi Xian Soup: Silky rice vermicelli in a clear or milky broth with premium grouper fillets, tofu, tomatoes, and salted veg. Subtle yet rich; the fish melts in your mouth. Go milky for creaminess! Approx. Price: SGD $7–10

- Crab Meat Porridge: Creamy congee studded with sweet crab meat and subtle spices. Comfort food elevated, hearty without heaviness. Approx. Price: SGD $5–8

- Fried Prawn Paste Fish Slices: Crispy, golden bites of fish coated in prawn paste, pure umami. Described as "umami bombs" by fans, addictive as a side or snack. Approx. Price: SGD $4–6

- Teochew Oyster Omelette: Fluffy eggs mixed with fresh oysters and a tangy chili dip. Classic hawker vibes with a gourmet twist, crisp outside, juicy within. Approx. Price: SGD $3–5

Prices in SGD are estimated based on Malaysian equivalents adjusted for Singapore's market (expect them to stay wallet-friendly, aligning with the Bib Gourmand ethos, think under SGD $20 for mains). Pair it with their underrated drinks, fresh lime or herbal teas that cut through the richness perfectly.

Why Funan Mall? Location, Location, Slurp-ation

Tucked into Funan Mall's vibrant mix of retail, offices, and co-living spaces, this spot is primed for success. Funan, revamped in 2019 with an underground link to City Hall MRT, draws a diverse crowd: office workers grabbing lunch, shoppers needing a quick refuel, and tourists exploring the Civic District. As co-founder Mr. Tan shared, "Hai Kah Lang sets its roots in the same mould as Singapore because of its Teochew/Chaoshan heritage," echoing the immigrant flavours that shaped our local food scene. It's a smart pick for a mall that blends lifestyle shopping with easy eats.

Reel It In Before It's Gone

Hai Kah Lang's Funan debut isn't just an opening, it's a tidal wave of flavour hitting Singapore shores. Mark your calendars for late September (exact date TBC), and prepare for lines worthy of a Michelin spot.

Photos: Hai Kah Lang