BMT recruits at the Basic Military Training Centre enjoying a special Lunar New Year menu at the cookhouse. (Photo: Dr Ng Eng Hen Facebook)
For many NSmen, National Service memories are not just about field camps, parades or IPPT, but also the comforting joy of canteen food from the cookhouse. From crispy chicken cutlet rice that drew the longest queues to piping hot maggi goreng that kept hungry soldiers fuelled during late-night suppers, these dishes became more than just meals – they were small but cherished rewards in the midst of tough training days.
Beyond full plates, it was often the little snacks that left the deepest impression: flaky curry puffs that sold out before lunch, frothy cups of ice Milo, or kaya buns that brought a taste of home. For others, a western food set of chicken chop, fries and baked beans was a simple indulgence that reminded them of civilian life outside the camp gates. These familiar flavours became markers of comfort and camaraderie, shared with platoon mates over laughter and long queues.
While today’s camp cookhouses and canteens may serve up newer offerings like bubble tea and healthier options, the nostalgia of some of these dishes continues to bind generations of servicemen. Food in National Service wasn’t just about filling stomachs – it was about shared experiences, small freedoms and the taste of memories that still linger long after ORD.
Here, some NSmen past and present share their most memorable cookhouse and canteen experiences:
“During my National Service, one of my favourite foods has always been the classic chicken rice from the cookhouse. It might not have been the fanciest meal, but after long days of training, it was something I looked forward to. The warm rice, tender chicken, and that simple garlic-chilli sauce never failed to hit the spot. It was a comforting taste of home in the middle of army life.
What made it my favourite wasn’t just the flavour, but the memories that came with it. I still remember those early days of enlistment – adjusting to the strict routines, the physical demands, and the homesickness. Sitting down with my platoon mates, laughing and chatting over a plate of chicken rice, made those tough moments a little easier. It was more than just food; it was a reminder that even in hardship, there were small things to enjoy.
Even during the hardest times – whether it was a long field camp or a gruelling IPPT session – the thought of a simple cookhouse meal kept me going. Every bite felt like a reward, a small piece of normalcy that reminded me of the life waiting outside camp. Looking back, it’s these little meals that made the journey meaningful, turning tough days into memories I now cherish.”
LCP (NS) Imaan Al Asqalany, Transport Hub West
“Back in my NS days, my go-to canteen meal was always Nasi Lemak. The aroma of coconut-infused rice, paired with crispy fried chicken wings, spicy sambal with anchovies, and that signature thinly sliced egg made it the perfect comfort food – especially after a tough exercise session. There was something about that plate of Nasi Lemak that always hit the spot, much like the joy of eating fish balls after a swim at the complex.
What made it even more special was sharing it with my section mates. We’d gather around, reflecting on the day’s training, and that simple dish became more than just food – it was part of the camaraderie and memories we built together.
While today’s Nasi Lemak comes in all sorts of fancy combinations, nothing quite compares to the humble version from the camp cookhouse. It may not be extravagant, but it holds a place in my heart that no gourmet upgrade ever could.”
SSG (NS) Terence Eng, 329SCE
“Hilltop Cafe at the White House within Nee Soon Camp. Nothing else like it, period.
In my NS days, Hilltop has always been my go to since it’s where my unit, SAF Band, was based at. Be it after a full day’s rehearsal for National Day, or practising for an upcoming concert or parades under the hot Singapore sun, aunty’s fried rice or cai fan were the comfort foods I looked forward to every time. Not to mention uncle’s super ‘gaoooo’ kopi – you’d definitely get a wake up call from that thing if you try it.
Hilltop Cafe was more than just a little cafe, it was the central meeting point for my friends and I before the start to any day, the end of a long one, the go-to spot for long conversations about life and the future, and laughs that resounded through the walls of the White House.”
CPL (NS) Nathaniel Lim, SAF Band
“For most of us who’ve served our two years in NS, the army cookhouse was a daily staple – dependable, free, and always there. But ask around, and you’ll find a surprising number of us who willingly gave up that free meal, choosing instead to spend a few dollars at the camp canteen or mess.
Why? It probably wasn’t just about taste. Sure, the fried chicken cutlet or nasi lemak from the canteen stall hit differently, but there was something else – something less tangible but deeply felt.
At the canteen, you weren’t just eating; you were reconnecting, even if briefly, with the outside world. The atmosphere was looser. No sergeants hovering. No eyes constantly watching. Conversations flowed more freely. Laughter was louder. And on the shelves? Snacks like Snickers, sour candy, and chips – small luxuries you’d never find at the cookhouse.
It was our little haven – a corner of camp where we weren’t soldiers first, but just young men, catching our breath. The camp canteen gave us more than just food.”
3SG (NS) Sin, 9DSMB
If you have any NS stories to share or would like to contribute to our monthly NSmen Share articles, please drop an email to our Editor Sean at tsean@safra.sg and we will get back to you.
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