Kueh lapis for gifts
Bengawan Solo (Kueh Lapis)
A well-known bakery counter specialising in kueh lapis and traditional Peranakan cakes, perfect for takeaway gifts and t...
Edible Souvenirs: What Food to Buy Home from Singapore
A compact Singapore guide to the best edible souvenirs — what to buy, where to get them and how to pack local treats like pineapple tarts, kueh lapis and sauces for the trip home.
A box of pineapple tarts is the safest edible souvenir — shelf-stable, compact and proudly Singaporean.
Vacuum-packed bak kwa and artisanal kueh lapis make airport security a lot less stressful.
Why edible souvenirs are a Singapore must-buy
Food is one of the easiest and most memorable ways to take a taste of Singapore home. From kopitiam treats to bakery classics and vacuum-packed snacks, edible souvenirs suit every budget and suitcase.
Visitors often prefer compact, shelf-stable items that travel well — think tins of pineapple tarts, boxed kueh lapis, jars of kaya and bottled pastes — but there are also options for the adventurous who want to bring back regional flavours like bak kwa or laksa paste.
- They’re easy to share with friends and family — quick conversation starters about your trip.
- Many items are available in gift-ready packaging for festive seasons and corporate presents.
- Local bakeries, pasar malam stalls and specialty stores across Orchard, Katong and Tiong Bahru carry traveller-friendly versions.
Top shelf-stable souvenirs to pick up
Pineapple tarts: the unofficial festive gift — compact, long-lasting and found at bakeries across Orchard and in airport gift shops. Choose sealed tins for best shelf life.
Kueh lapis and layered cakes: made for celebrations, these travel well when vacuum-wrapped. Bengawan Solo is synonymous with kueh lapis and is a reliable choice for boxed gifts.
- Pineapple tarts — look for airtight tins to prevent breakage.
- Kueh lapis — choose sealed boxes and ask staff about best-before dates.
- Vacuum-packed bak kwa — sweet barbecued pork that can last weeks if unopened.
- Pre-packaged snacks (salted egg chips, achar) — lightweight and TSA-friendly.
Sauces, pastes and condiments that travel well
Bottled pastes and sauces are clever souvenirs: laksa paste, chilli crab sauce, sambal and kaya make it easy for someone abroad to recreate Singapore flavours at home. Many local brands offer bottled versions designed for export.
If you like cooking, bring home a jar of laksa paste and pair it with dried noodles, or a bottle of chilli crab sauce to enjoy with fresh seafood once you’re back. Check labels for preservatives and airtight sealing before buying.
- Check airline rules for liquids and pack sauces in checked luggage.
- Prefer brands with tamper-evident seals for longer shelf life.
- Small jars of kaya or kopi paste are great for breakfast lovers.
Perishable favourites and how to transport them
Some beloved Singapore foods are perishable but still possible to bring home with the right planning. Vacuum-packed bak kwa is common, and certain bakeries offer chilled packaging for cakes and mousse desserts — though airlines and customs rules vary.
Avoid packing fresh durian in checked luggage on many airlines (it’s often prohibited), but durian-flavoured confectionery or vacuum-packed durian paste can be a workaround for durian fans.
- Ask vendors about vacuum-sealing and expiry dates before purchase.
- Use insulated coolers only if you have time and a direct flight; otherwise choose shelf-stable options.
- Declare food items if required by your destination country’s customs regulations.
Where to shop — neighbourhoods and stalls to visit
For curated bakery classics, head to Orchard and malls where chains and artisanal bakeries sell travel-ready boxes. Bengawan Solo (known for kueh lapis) and Parisian-style patisseries both offer gift packaging.
Hwaker centres and market clusters across Tiong Bahru, Chinatown and Katong are great for discovering smaller producers; Geylang Serai Market and Tekka Centre have regional goodies and halal options.
For quick souvenir runs before your flight, airport and city-centre kiosks stock tins of pineapple tarts and pre-packed snacks — perfect for last-minute gifts for the office or household.
- Bakeries and confectioners (Orchard, Tiong Bahru) for boxed gifts.
- Hawker centres and markets (Chinatown, Katong, Tekka) for authentic small-batch items.
- Airport kiosks for sealed tins and travel-friendly packaging.
