Nestled in Singapore’s dynamic food scene, Zhup Zhup by One Prawn & Co offers a modern take on seafood dining while paying homage to comforting local flavors. With a name that playfully mimics the slurping sound of noodles or soup, Zhup Zhup instantly creates a sense of fun and familiarity. Yet behind the playful name lies serious culinary craftsmanship, especially in its signature broth-based dishes. Known for rich prawn broths, smoky grilled ingredients, and hearty noodle bowls, this eatery has earned a growing fan base of diners who crave soulful, bold flavors. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a curious foodie exploring Singapore’s evolving hawker-inspired fare, Zhup Zhup provides a warm, flavorful experience worth savoring.
The Concept Behind Zhup Zhup
Zhup Zhup is the brainchild of One Prawn & Co, a team that has already made waves in Singapore’s food scene for their high-quality prawn noodles. Zhup Zhup takes that foundation and builds on it with a greater emphasis on broth-focused dishes hence the name, which highlights the joy of sipping rich, savory soup (‘zhup’ being a colloquial term for sauce or gravy in Singaporean slang).
The eatery’s mission is simple: deliver big flavors in comforting, casual dishes made with premium ingredients. This is not just another prawn noodle stall. At Zhup Zhup, the focus lies on perfecting every detail from simmered-all-day broths to house-made sambals and smoky toppings that elevate the experience. The result is a spot that feels like a hawker stall reimagined for today’s discerning palates.
Ambience and Dining Experience
The atmosphere at Zhup Zhup is cozy and welcoming. It leans more toward casual dining than fine dining, yet every bowl that leaves the kitchen looks thoughtfully prepared. There’s a sense of familiarity in the layout and friendliness of the staff, making it feel like a neighborhood favorite even for first-time visitors. Most patrons come for a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss, and that’s exactly what they get generous portions, bold flavors, and consistently high quality.
Signature Dishes at Zhup Zhup
One of the reasons Zhup Zhup has gained attention is its commitment to delivering prawn noodles that go above and beyond. But the menu is more than just noodles it’s a celebration of seafood and broth-based comfort food, elevated with fire-grilled toppings and curated garnishes.
1. Prawn Noodles with Fire-Grilled Prawns
This is the must-try dish at Zhup Zhup. The base is a rich, full-bodied prawn broth made by slow-cooking prawn heads and shells until it reaches a deep orange hue. Unlike lighter versions, Zhup Zhup’s broth is intense, almost creamy, with a natural sweetness from the seafood. It is paired with firm noodles and topped with fire-grilled prawns that add a smoky char and depth to each bite.
2. Lobster Broth Bowl
For diners looking for a touch of indulgence, the lobster broth bowl is a luxurious upgrade. The broth is thicker and even more concentrated, with a briny sweetness that pairs well with udon or ramen. Lobster chunks and flame-kissed seafood top off the dish, creating a rich, velvety experience.
3. Grilled Pork and Sides
While seafood takes the spotlight, meat lovers can also indulge in expertly grilled pork belly or charred pork slices. These make excellent side dishes or toppings for the noodles. Each cut is seasoned with care and grilled until slightly crisp outside while remaining juicy inside.
4. House-Made Sambal and Condiments
No meal at Zhup Zhup is complete without a taste of their house-made chili. The sambal here is spicy, fragrant, and well-balanced. It’s made in small batches, offering just the right kick to bring out the best in the noodles and seafood. You’ll also find fragrant garlic oil, vinegar, and soy blends at the table for customizing your bowl exactly how you like it.
What Makes Zhup Zhup Stand Out
With so many noodle shops and prawn mee stalls around, Zhup Zhup sets itself apart through a few defining features:
- Broth Intensity: Their soups are deeper, richer, and more concentrated than most hawker offerings.
- Grilled Additions: The use of fire-grilled toppings adds a smoky layer that elevates traditional recipes.
- Ingredient Quality: Only fresh prawns, lobster, and quality meats are used you can taste the difference in every bite.
- Chef-Driven Innovation: While rooted in tradition, the menu is shaped by modern techniques and flavors.
Customer Reviews and Popular Opinion
Diners frequently praise the umami-packed broths and the perfectly grilled toppings. Many note that the depth of flavor in the soup is what keeps them coming back. Reviewers also appreciate the balance of modern aesthetics with traditional taste. While the prices are slightly above hawker center levels, most patrons feel the value is justified by the generous portions and premium quality.
Best Times to Visit and What to Expect
Zhup Zhup tends to be busiest during lunch and dinner peaks, especially on weekends. To avoid long waits, visiting on weekdays or during non-peak hours is recommended. The seating is casual, so expect a quick turnover and a fast-paced service style perfect for busy professionals and students alike.
Takeaway and Delivery Options
Zhup Zhup also offers takeaway options, and their noodle bowls travel surprisingly well. Broths and noodles are usually packed separately to maintain texture. Whether enjoying it on the go or from home, the flavor remains robust and comforting.
Zhup Zhup in Singapore’s Food Landscape
Singapore is known for its love of soup noodles, seafood, and sambal, and Zhup Zhup taps into all three. By combining these beloved components with attention to detail and an emphasis on quality, the brand adds a refreshing voice to Singapore’s food story. It’s the kind of place that attracts both local foodies and tourists looking for authentic yet upgraded flavors.
While it’s rooted in a deep cultural appreciation for prawn noodles, Zhup Zhup doesn’t just replicate what’s already out there. It reinvents and reinterprets it creating dishes that respect tradition while pushing flavor boundaries forward. This balance of innovation and familiarity is what truly defines its appeal.
A Bowl Worth Slurping
Zhup Zhup by One Prawn & Co brings to the table more than just good food it delivers an experience of warmth, flavor, and modern creativity. Every bowl of prawn noodles tells a story of passion, quality, and local pride. From the rich broths to the grilled seafood, it’s clear that each element is thoughtfully crafted to create a memorable meal. For those in search of soulful Singaporean food with a contemporary twist, Zhup Zhup is not to be missed.