For lovers of Hakka cuisine, the opening of Hakka Yu at Jewel Changi Airport is a culinary event to celebrate. Originating in Guangzhou in 2013, this esteemed chain has finally made its international debut in Singapore, bringing the rich and distinctive flavours of Hakka culture to a broader audience.
A celebrated name, Hakka Yu has over 80 locations across China and has earned accolades such as China’s Top 100 Restaurant Brands, Guangzhou Culinary Landmark, and Dianping’s prestigious “Must-Eat List”.
Prefer watching a video? Watch this. Otherwise, scroll on!
Standout Dishes to Savour
Hakka Yu’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its menu, which showcases traditional Hakka dishes like Salt-Baked Chicken and Stuffed Tofu. The restaurant’s collaboration with the Char Yong (Dabu) Association further reinforces its dedication to preserving and celebrating Hakka heritage.
Stepping into Hakka Yu, diners are greeted with an inviting ambience: a sleek, modern space accented with warm, earthy tones that make for an elegant yet cosy dining experience.
If you’re visiting Hakka Yu for the first time, definitely try its Salt-Baked Chicken, an authentic Hakka dish you can’t miss.
A signature dish at the restaurant, their version of the Salt-Baked Chicken is prepared with the ancient salt-baking method that locks in moisture and flavour. The result is tender, juicy chicken that’s delicately seasoned and utterly satisfying. It’s a must-try for anyone exploring the menu.
The Hakka Stuffed Tofu is another signature dish and it celebrates an ancient culinary tradition and cultural heritage. The tender tofu is paired with pork and pan-fried to perfection, delivering a savoury, flavourful bite. Its rich, specially crafted sauce adds depth and complexity to this quintessential Hakka dish.
Another must-try is the Traditional Pork Soup, which is delicately prepared with high-quality pork and spring water. The light, savoury broth brings out the natural sweetness of its ingredients, making it a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
The Suan Pan Zi (Abacus Seeds) is nothing short of extraordinary. Made from hand-kneaded yam dough, these chewy morsels are stir-fried with dried shrimp, mushrooms, and pork, resulting in a fragrant, umami-rich dish.
Despite being the best version, I’ve ever tasted, the restaurant’s boss humbly noted that they have yet to source their ideal ingredients for the Singapore outlet, promising an even more tantalising experience in the future. This level of dedication to quality is a testament to Hakka Yu’s pursuit of perfection.
A perennial crowd-pleaser, the Sweet and Sour Pork at Hakka Yu is a must-order. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and savoury depth, with the pork maintaining its crispy exterior and tender interior.
Besides pineapples slices, it is also served with strawberries and blueberries, which elevated the taste and made it even more refreshing.
At our table, it was unanimously declared a triumph — not a single morsel was left behind.
While traditionally a Cantonese dish, Hakka Yu’s Roast Char Siew holds its own. Striking the perfect balance of fattiness and caramelised crust, it’s a standout even among a strong lineup of dishes. The smoky aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a dish worth revisiting.
Our Verdict?
Hakka Yu’s arrival in Singapore is a win for food lovers and the Hakka community alike. With its thoughtful blend of heritage, modernity, and exceptional food, Hakka Yu sets a new standard for Hakka dining in Singapore.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s steeped in tradition yet brimming with fresh, exciting flavours, Hakka Yu is a destination not to be missed. I, for one, will be back — especially to see how their Suan Pan Zi evolves.
Hakka Yu is located at 78 Airport Boulevard, Jewel Changi Airport, #03-220/221/222, Singapore 819666. It is open from 11.30am to 10pm daily. Follow Hakka Yu on Instagram for more information.
