Tucked away among the bustling stalls are delightful spots and familiar faces that give the place its warm and distinctive character.
FMT Lifestyle recently visited the market and chatted with business owners to uncover the stories behind some of its popular stalls.
1. Jenny Hong Soyavite: serving comfort in every sip
Having operated at the market for about 40 years, the Jenny Hong Soyavite stall has become a familiar stop for many regulars, with Hong’s friendly personality adding to its charm.
Her fresh, creamy soya bean keeps customers coming back for more, while the tau fu fah is a simple yet decadent dessert. Customers can also cool down with refreshing herbal tea and jelly.
- Stall number: TS-097A
- Business hours: 7am-3pm (closed on Mondays)
- Follow Jenny Hong Soyavite on Instagram.
2. Chanai & Chaya: four decades, three generations and plenty of heart
Chanai & Chaya has been serving hungry customers at Pasar Besar TTDI since 1985. Today, the stall is run by third-generation owner, Vijendran Nair, better known as Vijay.
Having grown up helping at the family business, Vijay now continues the legacy started by his late grandmother, late aunt and mother.
Their menu features a variety of appam, thosai, Sarawak laksa and more. Enjoy your meal with a fragrant cup of masala tea for the full experience.
- Stall number: TD-061 & 062
- Business hours: 7am-1pm (closed on Mondays)
- Learn more about Chanai & Chaya on Facebook and Instagram.
3. De’5 Needle Point: stitching warmth into every piece
Founded by Siti Mariam Saad about 40 years ago, De’5 Needle Point carries the comforting charm of a neighbourhood tailor many customers grew up with.
Fondly known as Kak Siti, her warm personality instantly puts visitors at ease.
She offers tailoring and alteration services for men’s, women’s and children’s attire, while also selling fabrics alongside ready-made skirts, blouses and more.
- Stall number: TD-097A, 097, 094, 101 & 101
- Business hours: 8am-4pm (closed on Mondays)
- Contact: 012-637 3275
- Follow De’5 Needle Point on Facebook.
4. Chai Cha Teh: dishing up crowd-pleasing local classics
Despite only opening nine years ago, Chai Cha Teh has quickly become a popular spot at the market.
Their menu features pan mee, Hainanese chicken rice, curry laksa, Penang prawn mee, Hainanese chicken chop, toast and more. No pork is served here.
Its founder, Chua Chai Chuan, shared a fun detail behind the eatery’s name: “Chai Cha Teh” means “tea” in Hindi, Chinese and Malay, respectively. Indeed, it is a fitting reflection of the multicultural crowd seen dining there.
- Stall number: TS-059
- Business hours: 6.30am-2 pm (closed on Mondays)
- Hainanese chicken rice is available from 9am onwards
5. Oi! Kopi & Roti: coffee, vinyl and a cosy escape
Oi! Kopi & Roti has quickly become a beloved spot within the market since opening last September, serving coffee, sandwiches, croissants and more.
Founder Luqman Hakim Dawam even added a vinyl record player to the space, giving it a laid-back charm. Scooters, a swing and a slide also make it easy for parents to relax while their little ones stay entertained.
- Stall number: TD-096A
- Business hours: 7am-2 pm (closed on Mondays)
- Follow Oi! Kopi & Roti on Instagram.
6. SputnikRekordz: a vinyl haven
SputnikRekordz is a vinyl record store featuring artistes ranging from The Beatles and Bee Gees to P Ramlee, Sudirman, Alleycats, Radiohead and many more.
The collection is curated by founder and owner, Naza Mohamad, with a strong focus on Southeast Asian music.
Naza shared that when he opened the space eight years ago, many questioned the idea of a vinyl record store in a wet market. Today, SputnikRekordz regularly draws foreign visitors.
- Stall number: TD-068 & 069
- Business hours: 12pm-8pm (closed on Mondays)
- Contact: 012-316 4375
- Learn more about SputnikRekordz on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Follow Naza Mohamad on Facebook and Instagram.
Learn more about Pasar Besar TTDI on Facebook.