HDL hotpot always hits the spot, but let’s be honest—it’s not the most affordable meal, especially in Singapore. The good news is that HDL is also available across the border in Malaysia, and it’s a lot more affordable thanks to the exchange rate! Read on as we break down the differences between HDL outlets in Singapore vs Malaysia, and if it’s really that much better across the border.
Price
Probably the most important deciding factor in this HDL MY vs SG comparison, and what a huge difference it is. HDL in Malaysia is nearly 50% cheaper than in Singapore thanks to the exchange rate: as most numerical prices for both remain the same and the only difference is that one is in RM while the other is in SGD.
For instance, soup bases in Singapore cost between $6 SGD to $34 SGD, depending on the flavour and if you’re getting a quarter/half/full portion. In Malaysia, soups cost RM 10 to RM 46, which is ~$3 SGD to ~$14 SGD! With these soup base prices, you probably won’t need to scrimp by ordering the free water base; instead you can enjoy multiple soup flavours at a fraction of the cost!
Same with the various signature meat and vegetable dishes (full portion), as seen in the table below:
Menu variety
In general, it seems that Malaysia’s HDL has slightly more soup base options than Singapore, but offers slightly fewer dishes, though this difference is quite negligible since they still offer all the signature/popular items.
For soups, Malaysia offers some exclusive flavours, like Herbal Bak Kut Teh, Golden Soup with Fish Maw and Japanese Dashi—flavours that you won’t see in Singapore (yet?). It’s also been noted by diners that Malaysia’s HDL has fewer dish options, especially pork dishes, and a smaller selection of free flow fruits and side dishes. Sauces and condiments offered for both are the same.
Freebies/toys
@jajanwithdorii ⚠️SNACK GRATIS SEPUASNYA⚠️ #fypindo #haidilao #snack #malaxiangguo
TikTok: @jajanwithdorii
While HDL outlets in Singapore usually offer free toys and snacks when you say one of their secret codes; Malaysia will let you bring them home for free, no hack required, just ask!
Others: taste, service & experience
Overall, the taste of HDL in Malaysia and Singapore seem to be pretty standard, with no stark differences in terms of quality. Service-wise, you’ll still be getting the same HDL-standard customer service as well.
@thisisbenzo I would really just go over and eat HDL hahahaha, open to jio!
♬ Cupid – Twin Ver. (FIFTY FIFTY) – Sped Up Version – sped up 8282
TikTok: @thisisbenzo
Verdict: with the much cheaper prices in Malaysia, we might just have to cross the border the next time we’re looking to satisfy those HDL cravings!
