There’s quite a lot to love about the new National Stadium. Sure the pitch is questionable, but if you remember what the old place was like you’ll know these are some major improvements: an LED roof, a well-distributed air-conditioning system and proper seats, not just spindly benches.
The best feature, though? The 42 food and drink kiosks.
The aunty and uncle stalls have gone and left us, and in their place are snappily-designed outlets providing concessions to rival any world class stadium’s.
We went on a walkabout during Singapore’s thrilling 4 – 2 win over Myanmar to get the rundown of what’s available — as usual, so you don’t have to.
Each kiosk generally sells snacks like prawn crackers ($1.50), peanuts ($1.50), potato chips ($3.50) and popcorn ($8 — 10) along with water ($2) and soft drinks ($3). Each also serves up a few specialty items.
Kallang Café (Halal)
Gates 3 — 9, 15 — 19
With multiple outlets located around the venue, Kallang Café pays tribute to the old National Stadium in its logo and in the food it offers. Its familiar bites include curry puffs ($2), fried egg noodles bento sets ($3.50) and turkey ham and cheese sandwiches.
Kampong Chickens
Gates 1 — 3, 15 — 19
It might sound like a chicken rice joint, but Kampong Chickens actually sells something a little easier to eat in the stands – lemongrass chicken burgers ($8) and French fries ($4). For $12, you can pick up a combo of a burger, fries and a 22oz soft drink.
Saffron Straits
Gates 15 — 19
As the name suggests, you’re in for a spicy, aromatic treat at this Indian-inspired outlet. They dish out vegetarian saffron rice ($7) and saffron rice with butter chicken ($8). Add $1.50 to make it a combo with a 22oz soft drink.
Snag Bar (top photo)
Gates 3 — 9, 9 — 12, 15 — 19
Hot dogs are among the most universal of gameday foods and you’ll find them in abundance at Snag Bar. Snag Bars can be found throughout the stadium, with warmers full of chicken hot dogs ($5) ready and waiting. Remember to help yourself to a couple of sauce sachets before you leave.
Stack Burger Co.
Gates 3 — 9
Lemongrass chicken burgers and fries are also available at Stack Burger Co. with the addition of the Stack beef burger with Asian BBQ sauce ($8). If you need an energy boost to get you through a particularly uninspiring match, Red Bull ($5) is sold here too.
Tips
Entry to certain sections of the stadium is currently available for away fans only, so Little Island Deli and The Rickshaw Club are not accessible to Singapore supporters. Other kiosks such as Makan Kaki were closed when we visited.
Despite prominent Tiger Beer and Jack Daniel’s branding at the stadium – not to mention a handful of dedicated Tiger bars – alcohol is not always served there. If you’re planning on knocking back a pre-game pint, your best bet is to head to Brewerkz Indoor Stadium where their happy hour runs until 7pm. The National Stadium currently has a no re-entry policy, so be sure to have your fill before kick-off.
