If you’re ever in the mood for something light yet filling at Ayer Rajah Food Centre, look no further than Soon Lee Fish Soup. This humble hawker stall may not have the glamour of Michelin stars or the glitzy reviews you might find on Instagram, but it does one thing pretty well – serving up a reasonably tasty, no-frills bowl of sliced grouper fish soup. I was on the hunt for a satisfying lunch that wouldn’t break the bank, and this fish soup stall caught my eye. Priced at just $5.50 for a hearty serving, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re getting a decent bang for your buck, especially when paired with a bowl of rice for a mere 50 cents. That’s right – a grand total of $6 for a full meal. But, of course, price isn’t everything; the question remains: is the soup good? Let’s dive in.
The Soup: Clear and Comforting, Not Overly Bold
First things first, the soup itself. Don’t expect anything overly intense in terms of flavour. The broth is pretty clear and light, with a subtle sweetness from the cabbage that’s been generously tossed in. I wouldn’t say it’s the kind of soup that’ll have you slurping and sighing in delight, but it’s good enough to soothe your hunger pangs without overwhelming your senses. The flavours are gentle, making it a comforting choice when you’re not in the mood for anything too heavy. The soup could probably use a little more oomph to elevate it to the next level. A little more seasoning, maybe a hint of garlic or ginger, wouldn’t hurt. But hey, it’s simple, it’s clean, and that’s okay too. Sometimes, a lighter, more neutral soup is exactly what you need – something to sip on while you catch up with a friend, or even just to enjoy by yourself on a quiet afternoon.
The Fish: A Generous Portion of Grouper
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the fish. Soon Lee Fish Soup doesn’t skimp on the slices of grouper, which are thick, tender, and surprisingly well-cooked. The fish is soft but still holds its shape as you lift a slice with your spoon. It’s not mushy or flimsy, which is always a win in my book. For a stall that doesn’t exactly shout about being “premium”, the grouper here is pretty decent. At $5.50 for the soup alone, the portion of fish is definitely reasonable. If you’re a fan of fish soups, this will satisfy your cravings without making you feel like you’ve been short-changed. The fish adds a nice texture to the otherwise simple soup, giving each spoonful a little extra bite.
The Final Verdict: Moderately Acceptable, but Good Enough
At the end of the day, Soon Lee Fish Soup’s sliced grouper fish soup is exactly what it promises to be: a decent, affordable meal that’s neither too fancy nor too plain. It won’t blow your mind with explosive flavours, but it will fill you up and keep you satisfied. It’s the kind of dish you’d order when you want something comforting but not too overwhelming, or when you’re just after a quick, filling meal without splurging. Is it worth the $6? Absolutely. Would I come back? Sure, if I’m craving a light, easy lunch that won’t leave me broke. In short, it’s nothing over-the-top, but it’s a perfectly good choice for when you’re in the area and need a bit of a pick-me-up. So, overall, yeah – can accept. It’s not going to win any awards, but it’s good enough for what it is.
Soon Lee Fish Soup Ayer Rajah Food Centre Opening Hours and Location
24 hours Daily
Address: #01-10, 503 W Coast Dr, Singapore 120503, Ayer Rajah Food Centre
