From Skies to Stalls: The Bittersweet Journey of Singapore's F&B Entrepreneurs
In a bold career pivot that would make many think twice, former Singapore Airlines cabin crew Cherry Kiang traded her wings for woks when she opened Kiang Kiang Taiwan Teppanyaki in Woodlands last June. The 29-year-old and her husband invested $30,000 into their dream - only to face the harsh realities of Singapore's competitive food scene.
"Seeing our first loss in February hit differently," Cherry confessed to AsiaOne. "My team poured their hearts into this, so it stung personally. But business isn't about monthly wins - it's the year-long marathon that counts."
Her story mirrors a worrying trend. Government data reveals 3,047 F&B closures in 2024 - the highest since 2005. Among them was Mentai-ya, once a nine-outlet Japanese rice bowl chain started by Khoo Keat Hwee with similar $30,000 beginnings.
"We bled for two years before shutting last month," the 38-year-old entrepreneur revealed. His voice carried regret: "I should've cut losses earlier instead of sinking half a million trying to stay alive."
The Perfect Storm: Costs, Competition and Manpower Woes
Interviews with multiple F&B owners paint a consistent picture of struggle:
Ingredient Inflation: "Customers think we're rolling in profit selling $8.80 salmon bowls," Keat Hwee lamented. "But premium ingredients leave razor-thin margins."
Rental Roulette: Landlords raising rents at every renewal emerged as a common pain point.
The Hiring Crisis: From hawker centers to cafes, finding staff proves increasingly difficult.
"Locals shy away from kitchen work unless we raise prices," Cherry explained while flipping teppanyaki orders during lunch rush hour at Woodlands. "Foreign hires bring visa complications under current quotas."
The challenges multiply for veteran operators like Melvin Chew of Jin Ji Teochew Braised Duck fame - better known as founder of Hawkers United support group during COVID-19 lockdowns.
A Market Correction or Systemic Crisis?
"Everyone blames rents and competition but that's not the full picture," argues Debbie Yong (former food editor turned brand strategist). She identifies pandemic-era overexpansion as root cause behind recent closures.
3-year-old girl jumps out of moving car in Malaysia, gets 20 stitches
A three-year-old toddler in Malaysia received 20 stitches after she reportedly jumped out of a moving car driven by her teacher on her first day of school.
We review 7 of the June 2026 BTO launch sites - which is the best option for you?
Singapore Family Photography Packages: Capture Precious Moments with Your Loved Ones
Looking to preserve your family memories in a beautiful and professional way? Singapore family photography packages offer tailored options for families of all sizes, ensuring every smile and special moment is perfectly captured. Referenciak the link below to explore studios, package details, and special offers that suit your family’s needs.
Discover the Best Singapore Travel Packages: Your Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Holiday
Looking for the best way to explore Singapore? A well-planned travel package can offer you an unforgettable experience, from visiting iconic landmarks to enjoying local cuisine and vibrant culture. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to the Lion City, there are travel packages that cater to all your needs. Let’s dive into the exciting options available for your next Singapore getaway.
Trending
New Culinary Delights in Singapore
The scorching heat of July isn't just confined to the weather; it's sizzling in the kitchens, grills, and cocktail shakers all over town. This month's lineup of newly opened establishments in Singapore offers a diverse and delectable array of culinary experiences, from Michelin-starred chefs putting a modern spin on traditional dishes to soulful taquerías and even tofu transformed into gelato.
GastroBeats 2026 Returns Bigger & Better: A Foodie's Paradise with Live Music & Nostalgic Exhibits
The excitement is back! After an unforgettable experience last year, I couldn't wait to see how GastroBeats 2026 would top itself - and let me tell you, it absolutely delivered.
McDonald's Ignites Excitement with the Grand Opening of Its First-Ever McSpicy Museum
Singapore’s love affair with the McSpicy is about to get even hotter as McDonald’s unveils its groundbreaking McSpicy Museum, a sizzling celebration of the iconic burger that has captivated taste buds since 1999.
Say "I Do" in Style at Swensen's New Wedding Venue – Buffet Included!
Wedding venue hunting just got a whole lot sweeter! After months of searching hotels, I stumbled upon Singapore's most delicious wedding secret – Swensen Unlimited's stunning new event space at Science Park.
Treat Mum to an Unforgettable Dining Experience This Mother's Day
The perfect gift for Mum isn't another "World's Best Mum" mug (though she'll cherish it anyway). It's quality time together, especially when shared over an exceptional meal.
Singapore's Finest High Tea Experiences: A Luxurious Afternoon Affair
Indulge in the ultimate afternoon luxury with Singapore's most exquisite high tea experiences. From delicate pastries to innovative local-infused creations, these elegant venues promise a memorable escape into refined indulgence.
Hong Kong's Beloved Keming Bing Sat Cha Chaan Teng Arrives in Singapore This May
Calling all fans of authentic Hong Kong-style cafe cuisine! The wildly popular Keming Bing Sat cha chaan teng is finally making its Singapore debut at Plaza Singapura in late May, marking the brand's first venture into our local food scene.
Bringing Seoul to Singapore: Lotte Mart Express Opens at VivoCity with Authentic Korean Flavors
Craving the vibrant tastes of South Korea? Singaporeans can now immerse themselves in a true Korean shopping and dining experience without leaving the island, as Lotte Mart Express makes its debut at FairPrice Xtra VivoCity.
Pizza Hut Singapore Launches Adorable Sir Melts-a-Lot Plushie – The Must-Have Collectible This May!
Move over, food trends – collectible plushies are the latest craze sweeping Singapore's F&B scene, and Pizza Hut is joining the fun with their first-ever limited-edition plushie! Meet Sir Melts-a-Lot, an irresistibly cute cheeseburger-inspired companion that’s set to steal hearts from May 5 to 18.
Singapore's Ultimate Buffet Guide: Indulge in Unlimited Feasts & Sweet Delights
Buffets are every food lover's paradise – endless choices, unlimited servings, and the freedom to craft your perfect meal. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best? We've done the hard work for you! Discover Singapore's top buffet spots that deliver incredible value with show-stopping dishes like live tuna sashimi carvings, 48-flavor ice cream bars, and all-you-can-eat local favorites.
Singapore Shines in Global Stir-Fry Rankings: 4 Local Dishes Make the Cut
Singapore's vibrant food scene has once again captured international attention, with four iconic dishes earning spots on TasteAtlas' prestigious list of the 50 Best Stir-fry Dishes worldwide.
Singapore Steakhouses Shine on Global Stage: Burnt Ends Tops World's 101 Best List
Singapore's culinary scene has long been a magnet for international recognition, with its restaurants frequently gracing prestigious rankings like Asia's 50 Best Restaurants. This year, the spotlight turns to the city-state’s sizzling steakhouse offerings, as four local establishments carve their names onto the coveted World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list—led by Dempsey Hill’s fiery favorite, Burnt Ends.
15 Unforgettable Mother's Day Dining Deals in Singapore for 2026
Some of my most cherished moments with my mother have always revolved around sharing delicious meals together.
30-Year-Old Geylang Curry Rice Legend Bids Farewell – Last Day May 12
After three decades of dishing out Singapore’s iconic scissor-cut curry rice in Geylang, New Scissor-Cut Curry Rice Restaurant has announced its permanent closure on May 12, marking the end of an era for late-night comfort food lovers.
Celebrating SG60 in Style: A Guide to National Day Promotions
As Singapore commemorates its 60th year of independence, this National Day goes beyond fireworks and flags; it signifies our nation's remarkable journey. Evolving from a humble kampong port city to a thriving global financial and cultural center, the Little Red Dot has exceeded expectations. This diamond jubilee calls for a grand celebration.
Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026 Results Revealed
The latest rankings for Asia's 50 Best Bars in 2026 have been released, showcasing a mix of familiar local favorites and some notable changes. Singapore, however, has seen a decrease in the number of establishments making the prestigious list compared to the previous year.
Celebrating Singapore's 60th Birthday with Breakfast-Themed Plushies
Yet another limited-edition collection is here to celebrate Singapore's 60th birthday.
Treat Dad Like Royalty This Father's Day With These Mouthwatering Dining Experiences
Let's be honest - shopping for dads is tough. They've already got enough ties, cufflinks and novelty socks to last a lifetime. But there's one universal truth about fathers: they'll never turn down an amazing meal.
Singapore Goes Bananas Over JB's Famous Cake in a Vending Machine!
Singaporeans recently lost their minds when news broke about a special vending machine offering Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory's legendary Malaysian banana cakes - no Causeway crossing required!
British YouTuber Calls Out Fake Malaysian Food in London Market
Manchurian chicken, sweet and sour tofu?
Recommended
13 New Cars to Watch for at the Singapore Motor Show 2026
The 2026 Singapore Motor Show has returned in a scale not seen for years. Spanning three full exhibition levels at Suntec City Convention Centre — plus the Level 1 atrium — the event brings together 37 automotive brands, marking one of the most expansive showcases since the pre-pandemic era.For car buyers, the show is not just about spectacle. While many concepts and overseas models are on display, a select group of vehicles are either available now or scheduled to arrive in Singapore in the com
Driving centres in Singapore hike learner fees in 2026
SINGAPORE — Taking lessons to seek a driving licence has become more expensive, with the three driving centres in Singapore raising fees from Jan 1.
'CNY surcharge' for curry rice at Admiralty food court sparks debate, stall operator responds
With Chinese New Year over a month away, one diner at a food court in Admiralty was surprised to find a festive surcharge added to her bill.
From Stress Relief to Full Reset: 8 Wellness Centres in Singapore Redefining Rest and Recovery
Singapore’s wellness industry has seen a noticeable surge in recent years, driven by a growing number of people looking to improve their overall quality of life. As conversations around stress management, balance and long-term vitality become more mainstream, wellness has evolved into something far more layered than a simple day at the spa.Today, recovery and self-care take many forms. Alongside traditional relaxation offerings, a new generation of wellness spaces has emerged, blending physical
Singapore’s Best Women-Only Gyms: Where Fitness Meets Comfort and Community
Finding the right gym can be a turning point in any fitness journey, but for many women, the environment matters just as much as the workout itself. Privacy, safety, flexibility and a sense of belonging often determine whether a routine becomes sustainable or fades away after a few weeks.In Singapore, women-only gyms are gaining renewed attention in 2026 as more people prioritise confidence, comfort and community alongside physical performance. From strength-focused studios to round-the-clock tr
Dubai rent spikes ease as new tenants get more options
Dubai’s property market is showing early signs of cooling after two years of record-breaking highs, marking the beginning of a more stable and balanced cycle for both tenants and investors. Recent data from ValuStrat and Betterhomes indicates that the city’s real estate growth is becoming more measured — with apartment sales rising, villa demand levelling off, and rent growth slowing down.
All you need to know about the upcoming Miltonia Close EC in Yishun
The future executive condominium (EC) at Miltonia Close is shaping up to be one of the most meaningful northern launches in the coming years. It brings back a new EC option to the area after nearly a decade, filling a clear supply gap while tapping into strong upgrader demand across the North.
Full Mouth Dental Implants for Seniors: Cost, Insurance, Options & How to Choose
Full mouth dental implants for seniors are often considered when missing teeth begin to affect daily comfort, eating ability, speech, and overall confidence. For many older adults, traditional dentures no longer feel stable enough, which makes full mouth restoration a more attractive long-term option.
10 Best No-Minimum-Balance Savings Accounts in Singapore (2026): Say Goodbye to Fall-Below Fees
Banks love making things complicated, and savings accounts are no exception. You’ll often see accounts that promise “high interest rates” — but only if you maintain a certain balance, usually $1,000 or more. Slip below that, and bam, a fall-below fee appears on your statement.That’s where savings accounts with no minimum balance come in handy. They’re simpler, more flexible, and most importantly, they don’t penalise you for using your own money. These accounts are perfect if you want to save wit
The Hidden HDB Terraces You Never Knew Existed in Queenstown From Just $1.5M
If you love the charm of a landed home but not the sky-high prices that usually come with it, you might be surprised to learn that Queenstown offers an alternative — and at a fraction of the cost. Tucked discreetly within one of Singapore’s most mature towns are rare HDB terrace houses that let you enjoy the landed lifestyle without a multimillion-dollar price tag.A while ago, we featured Queenstown’s private landed homes that can go up to $12 million. Beautiful, yes — but hardly within reach fo