Singapore may be one of the smallest city-states in the world, but it certainly packs a punch in terms of the flavors it offers. The country’s cuisine is a reflection of the many Asian cultures that can be found there, and this characteristic is precisely what sets it apart from the food of its neighboring countries.

“There’s such a diversity of food sensations, taste sensations; it is really a taste paradise,” says Singaporean TV host and celebrity chef Vivien Tan, the co-owner of the newly opened restaurant My Singapore Food Street.

“It’s a blend of other cuisines that makes it unique. There are Thai influences, Malay influences, Arab influences, Indonesian, English influences. I think it’s because it’s a blend, it’s a melting pot, that the flavors actually come out as unique… it’s all fused, it’s all melded together, so there’s definitely something for everyone.”

Scroll through the gallery below to learn about five dishes you must absolutely try should you ever find yourself in the Lion City.

(Photos courtesy of My Singapore Food Street)