Hakka Yu (客语) has officially opened its doors at Jewel Changi Airport, bringing authentic Hakka cuisine to Singapore. Founded in Guangzhou in 2013, this celebrated restaurant chain has grown to over 80 outlets across China. Its debut in Singapore marks the brand’s first international location, offering diners a taste of traditional Hakka flavours.
Inaugural Restaurant Out of China
With Singapore’s Hakka community numbering over 200,000, the expansion of Hakka Yu into Singapore marks a significant milestone as the first outlet to open outside of China. This exclusive opening brings authentic Hakka cuisine to the heart of Southeast Asia, offering both locals and international visitors the chance to experience the rich flavours and cultural heritage of the Hakka community.
With over 11 million visitors to Singapore in 2023 alone, the city’s vibrant food scene provides the perfect platform to showcase the spirit of Hakka cuisine to the world. Hakka Yu’s commitment to authenticity and its unique dishes add to Singapore’s diverse culinary landscape, further enhancing its appeal as a global food destination. Hakka Yu at Changi Jewel offers an unforgettable taste of Hakka culture in one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks.
Keeping Hakka Traditions Alive
In anticipation of Hakka Yu’s opening, the restaurant has been in close discussions with the Char Yong (Dabu) Association, a respected advocate for Hakka heritage. The association recently travelled to China to experience Hakka Yu firsthand and returned with high praise for its authenticity. They are excited about Hakka Yu’s debut in Singapore and look forward to a meaningful partnership that will promote Hakka cuisine in Singapore.
“We’re thrilled to introduce Hakka Yu to Singapore,” said Mr Fong Chi Chung, Founder and Chairman of PUTIEN Group. “Authentic Hakka dishes, such as Hakka Salt-Baked Chicken and Traditional Hakka Pork Soup, are rarely seen in Singapore’s local food scene. At Hakka Yu, we aim to bring these unique flavours to the forefront, introducing the rich heritage of Hakka cuisine to both locals and visitors. Our goal is to enrich Singapore’s multicultural food scene by offering a deeper experience of Hakka flavours—flavours that have already found a welcoming home here.”
Food serves as a powerful cultural expression and Hakka Yu aims to keep Hakka traditions alive through authentic Hakka cuisine.
Hakka Cuisine: A Testament to The Resilience and Adaptability of The Hakka People
The Hakka people’s history of migration has shaped their cuisine, with preservation techniques like salting, drying, and fermentation still central to their dishes today. Hakka Yu’s traditional hand-shredded salt-baked chicken honours this heritage, using the ancient salt-baking method to preserve the chicken’s natural flavours and enhance its tenderness and juiciness.
As the Hakka migrated, they adapted their cuisine to local ingredients, creating a wide variety of dishes with items like bamboo shoots, preserved vegetables, and different meats. Hakka cuisine reflects the balance between preserving their cultural roots and adjusting to new environments for survival. This resilient and adaptable culinary tradition continues to thrive today, offering a rich and diverse range of flavours.
Must-Try Dishes at Hakka Yu
Savour the distinct flavours of authentic Hakka dishes offered at Hakka Yu:
Hakka Yu at Jewel Changi Features an Inviting Ambience
With a spacious 109-seater layout, the restaurant combines modern sophistication with a serene, zen-inspired ambience—perfect for every occasion, whether it’s a cosy family dinner, a casual catch-up with friends, or a special celebration.
Diners are greeted by warm, earthy tones and contemporary design elements that create an inviting atmosphere. The soft, dim lighting casts a gentle glow, adding a touch of intimacy and calm to your dining experience. Hakka Yu provides an elegant setting to indulge in bold, authentic Hakka flavours, in a space that feels effortlessly stylish and timeless.
Hakka Yu is set to delight diners with its unique blend of rich culinary heritage and modern flair. Looking for a memorable meal steeped in tradition? Hakka Yu is the place to be! Come for the flavours, stay for the ambience, and get ready for a dining experience like no other.
Details of Hakka Yu
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Address |
78 Airport Boulevard Jewel Changi Airport #03-220/221/222 Singapore 819666 |
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Opening hours |
11.30am to 10.00pm (Last order 9.30pm) |
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Square area |
241 square metres |
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Restaurant seating |
109 pax |
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Service options |
Dine-in and takeaway |
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Telephone |
6908 6881 |
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Social media |
Instagram: @hakkayu_sg Facebook: Hakka Yu 客语 Hashtags: #HakkaYuSG #HakkaYuInSG #TasteOfHakkaSG |
Photos credit to Hakka Yu
