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Charen Thai Kitchen

4.2(174)on Googlethaihougang

684 Hougang Ave 8, #01-977, Singapore 530684

Dine-inTakeoutWheelchair accessible

Opening Hours

Today (Monday)11:30 AM – 11:00 PM

STAMPEDE Score

Moderate confidence
B+Great choice

Score: 78 / 100

Atmosphere70
Queue wait85
Food quality80
Value for money75

Based on 5 data points · Updated 9 days ago

Editor’s Note

Last updated 29 May 2026

Our take: Charen Thai Kitchen appears to be a solid neighbourhood Thai option in Hougang, offering what many describe as authentic flavours adapted for local palates.

The Pad Thai consistently receives positive remarks for its balanced sweet, sour, and umami profile, with one reviewer specifically noting its 8/10 rating and intention to reorder.

The Pineapple Fried Rice is also a popular choice, praised for its fragrance and inclusion of cashews and pork floss, though some might find the mixed vegetables a detractor.

For those seeking a unique experience, the Papaya Salad is highlighted as a standout, with finely shredded papaya absorbing the sauce while retaining texture.

While dishes like the Green Curry and Basil Chicken are well-received, the Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers) is noted as being 'mid' by one reviewer.

Portions are generally considered generous, making it suitable for sharing, especially the fried oyster omelette which is described as 'huge' and 'greasy' for two.

We'd recommend visiting during weekday lunch for a quieter experience, as the atmosphere is described as 'chill and quite empty' during this time.

A set lunch at $11.90 is also available, offering good value.

Overall, it's a reliable spot for a casual Thai meal, particularly if you're in the Hougang area.

Signature

Pad Thai

Best time

Weekday lunch

Wait time

No wait during off-peak hours

Price

$$ ($15-25/person)

Score: 78 · 5 sources

What customers say

Charen Thai Kitchen is largely praised as an authentic Thai 'hidden gem' in Hougang, offering reasonable prices and generous portions.

Customers frequently commend dishes like the Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and especially the Papaya Salad for their robust flavors, though some note the spiciness is adapted for local tastes.

While most dishes receive high marks, the Moo Ping is often described as 'mid' and the Fried Oyster Omelet, though flavorful, can be overly greasy and large for smaller groups.

Authentic Thai flavorsReasonable prices and generous portionsPapaya Salad and Pad Thai are highlightsMoo Ping is averageSpiciness adapted for local palate
80% positive10% neutral10% negative

Google Reviews

★★★★Derrick Ang· 6 months ago

Hidden gem of Hougang! Finally got to try it despite living nearby and the food did not disappoint. Went on a weekday evening and got seated right away. Ordered the pineapple fried rice, pad thai and…

★★★★Andrew Liew· 5 months ago

The food is quite authentic but spiciness is adapter to local taste. The tomyum and petai is great for going with rice. Stingray is unique style not sambal. Salted egg chicken was normal.

★★★★★elayna chin· 7 months ago

Authentic Thai food that’s located next to a kopitiam! We had Green curry, fried Oyster omelet, Mooping, basil Chicken and coconut drink to wash it all down. Every dish we ordered was on point and pac…

★★★★Jeremy Khoo· 7 months ago

Always wanted to try this place as we always drive past as it is hidden in a corner. Prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. Both dishes are ok but I think watered down for Singaporean ta…

★★★★Jacob TAN· 9 months ago

A small quiet authentic Thai shop next to a coffeeshop. It was very not busy when we were there for lunch today. The fried vermicelli had good flavour and the noodles had good chewy texture. It has a…

Reviews from Google

More content coming as we discover reviews and videos about this restaurant across the web.

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