The best solution for rainy days in Singapore: would it be Gu Zao Ren?

When the skies open up and the rain pours down in Singapore (like today), there’s nothing quite like seeking refuge in a cozy eatery that serves comfort food. That's where I went when the skies turned dark and started pouring.

In fact, seemed like others had the same idea.

Enter Gu Zao Ren Taiwan Porridge (古早人台湾粥), a beloved spot that promises to warm your heart and fill your belly on those dreary, wet days.

Founded in 1972 (it's been more than 50 years!), Gu Zao Ren has been a staple in the local food scene, offering authentic Taiwanese porridge that feels like home. Open daily from 11 am till 2 am, it’s the go-to place for night owls looking for a satisfying meal after hours.

My parents loved this meal!

The highlight of the menu is the Taiwanese porridge, which is thicker and heartier than Teochew porridge. Cooked with sweet potatoes, it has a creamy texture and natural sweetness that makes it incredibly comforting. On a rainy day or in the early hours of the morning, a steaming bowl of porridge hits the spot.

Speaking of sides, Gu Zao Ren also offers a variety of homestyle zi-char favorites that pair perfectly with the porridge.

Nan Lu fried pork: really crispy and salted well to my tastebuds

Here are a few must-try dishes:

Preserved Salted Vegetables with Pork ($9/$11): This dish features tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly braised to perfection, accompanied by stir-fried preserved mustard greens. The rich umami flavor is a delightful complement to the porridge, making it a must-try.
Chai-Poh Omelette ($9/$11): A classic Taiwanese comfort food, this omelette is made with finely chopped preserved radish, creating a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. It’s the ideal partner for the creamy porridge, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
Fried Taiwan Pea-Shoots ($14/$16): Fresh and seasonal, these pea shoots are stir-fried to retain their crunch and natural sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the porridge.
Deep-Fried Pomfret with Black Bean Sauce ($26): This whole fish is deep-fried to a crispy perfection and drizzled with fragrant black bean sauce, enhancing its natural sweetness and making it a delightful addition to your rainy day feast.

From left: Triple cup chicken, Deep-Fried Pomfret with Black Bean Sauce, Pork Liver in claypot

Preserved Salted Vegetables with Pork

We fully enjoyed all of it - in fact, if you notice, we ordered more saucy dishes to go with the porridge, which was totally wonderful!

The atmosphere at Gu Zao Ren is welcoming, making it a great place to enjoy a meal while listening to the rain or catching up with friends late at night.

Plus, the first bowl of porridge is just $1, with unlimited free refills, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal.

So, whether it’s a rainy day or you’re craving something at 2 am, Gu Zao Ren Taiwan Porridge is a solid choice for comfort food that won’t disappoint.

Gu Zao Ren Taiwan Porridge 古早人台湾粥 (Changi Road)
391 Changi Rd, Singapore 419840
Opens daily from 11am to 2am

xoxo,
Janel

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