After 45 years of serving mouth-watering Fishball Noodles, the iconic Teck Hin Fishball Noodle stall at Bukit Timah Market and Food Centre is closing its doors on December 6.
The owners, Chen Huoyan and Wang Yafu have decided to cease operations due to financial constraints from dwindling customer footfall and rising inflation.
Teck Hin Fishball Noodle: From Clementi Bus Interchange to Bukit Timah
Source: Burpple
Established by Chen in 1978, it has been an enduring presence in the local food scene. Starting from a humble coffee shop next to Clementi Bus Interchange, the stall relocated to Bukit Timah three and a half years ago. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the business soldiered on, only to face a significant drop in customers in recent months.
A Tough Call Amidst Rising Costs
The past few months have been particularly challenging for Teck Hin Fishball Noodle. The stall’s profits tumbled by over 30%, making it difficult to keep up with the escalating costs. With inflation driving up operating costs, including ingredient prices, the couple found themselves shelling out more than S$4,000 each month just to keep the stall running.
The couple, however, refrained from increasing their prices, with a small bowl of noodles still costing S$4 and a large bowl priced at S$5. Their commitment to retaining their loyal customer base despite the financial strain is a testament to their dedication.
The Teck Hin Fishball Noodle Legacy Continues
Source: Foursquare
While the stall at Bukit Timah may be closing, this is not the end of the road. Chen, despite the challenges, is optimistic about continuing his culinary journey. He hopes to find a new location that garners decent footfall and allows the couple to earn a livelihood.
In fact, loyal customers have already started asking for Chen’s contact information, vowing to follow Teck Hin Fishball Noodle wherever it reopens. One patron was quoted saying, “No matter how remote their new stall will be, I will make sure to patronise again.”
Your Last Chance to Savour the Delights of Teck Hin Fishball Noodle
So, before the shutters come down at Bukit Timah on December 6, make sure you stop by for one last bowl of their delectable noodles. And stay tuned, as this local food icon may soon be serving up its signature dishes in a new location!
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