Hup Lok (合楽) is one of those under-the-radar gems that rewards those willing to venture off the main dining strips to Havelock Road. Helmed by a third-generation seafood wholesaler, the restaurant leverages its direct-sourcing advantage to offer premium, export-grade seafood at surprisingly accessible prices. By cutting out the middleman, diners can enjoy quality ingredients that would typically command a much higher price elsewhere. The setting is modest and unpretentious, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the food — honest, hearty dishes that celebrate the natural flavours of the sea.
Alaskan King Crab Bee Hoon 4/5
We started with the Alaskan King Crab Bee Hoon ($38.80), a dish that immediately showcases the restaurant's value proposition. Featuring half an Alaskan king crab, it is hard not to be impressed by the generous portion at this price point. The dish arrives with a golden, crustacean-rich broth infused with the aroma of Chinese wine, lending both depth and fragrance. A mix of bee hoon and tang hoon provides textural contrast, soaking up the crab's sweet essence while retaining a pleasant bite. Luxurious yet comforting, this dish feels indulgent without the usual restaurant markup.
Claypot Hokkien Mee 4/5
The Claypot Hokkien Mee ($18.80) is another crowd-pleaser, served bubbling hot in a claypot. Loaded with a medley of ingredients, including large prawns, pork belly, squid, lardons, and a lacy omelette, it leans towards a wetter, gooier style. While the prawn stock could be more robust for greater depth, the highlight undoubtedly lies in the four Ecuadorian "kami no ebi" prawns, prized for their size and natural sweetness. The accompanying sambal chilli could do with more punch, but considering the quality and quantity of ingredients, it remains a satisfying bowl of noodles.
Teochew Braised Whole Duck Liver 4/5
A standout for those who appreciate offal is the Teochew Braised Whole Duck Liver ($38), available via pre-order. Thick slices of duck liver are braised in a savoury, slightly herbal broth that gently permeates the rich flesh. Unlike pan-seared foie gras, this preparation is lighter on the palate, with a clean, balanced flavour profile that makes it more approachable. The texture is luxuriously silky and buttery, melting effortlessly in the mouth while retaining an earthy depth.
Grandpa's Promfret Soup (外公鱼汤) 4.2/5
Rounding off the meal is the Grandpa's Pomfret Soup ($13.80), a dish rooted in heritage and nostalgia. The broth is light yet deeply comforting, lifted by salted plums and tomatoes that add a gentle tang. Generously filled with fresh pomfret slices, it embodies the warmth of a traditional Teochew home-cooked soup, simple yet full of soul.
Hup Lok may not boast flashy interiors or a prime location, but what it offers is something far more compelling — exceptional value, quality seafood, and cooking that respects the integrity of its ingredients. It is little wonder that the restaurant has been quietly gaining traction through word of mouth. For those in the know, this is a spot worth bookmarking for a satisfying seafood feast without breaking the bank.
Note: This is an invited tasting.
Hup Lok (合楽)
725 Havelock Road
Singapore 169647
Tel: +65 82589725
Website
Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru (EW Line)
Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)
Direction:
1) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Bukit Ho Swee Crescent, continue on Bukit Ho Swee Crescent to Jalan Bukit Ho Swee. Cross the road to Beo Crescent HDB estate block 34. Cut through the HDB estate to Havelock Road. Turn left on Havelock Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]
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