After moving her family from Singapore to Auckland, Adlena Wong built a successful food business from scratch, culminating in her bak chor mee being recognized as one of the city’s iconic eats in 2026.
- Bak chor mee named on 2026 Iconic Auckland Eats List
- Adlena Wong started Super Shiok Eats during the pandemic
- Dish praised for authenticity and Muslim-friendly recipe
What happened
In May 2026, Auckland announced its annual Iconic Eats List, a collection of 100 locally nominated dishes that define the city's vibrant culinary culture. Among the recognized foods was bak chor mee, a savory Singaporean noodle dish known for its vinegary flavor and minced meat topping. This inclusion marked an exciting nod to the multicultural food scene in New Zealand's largest city.
Behind this achievement is Adlena Wong, a Singaporean expatriate who founded the food venture Super Shiok Eats. Having moved with her family to Auckland in 2018, Wong built her business from home, eventually selling at farmers markets and perfecting Muslim-friendly versions of classic dishes such as bak chor mee and fried carrot cake.
Why it feels good
For Wong, the recognition represents far more than a culinary accolade. It validates the leap of faith she took to restart her life and career in a new country where her cuisine was initially unfamiliar. The warmth of Auckland's food-loving community nominating her signature dish brought a deep sense of accomplishment and joy.
Her journey echoes the spirit of resilience and adaptation, having juggled family life, odd jobs, and the challenges of establishing a niche food business during the pandemic. The success of her bak chor mee and related dishes demonstrates how authentic home cooking can bridge cultures and thrive in new environments.
What to enjoy or watch next
Auckland food lovers eager to taste authentic Singaporean flavors can explore Super Shiok Eats’ offerings, especially the Muslim-friendly bak chor mee available at various farmers markets and through take-home kits. Wong’s focus on maintaining authenticity while catering to local preferences continues to attract more fans.
Looking ahead, her story inspires both aspiring food entrepreneurs and adventurous eaters alike. Keep an eye out for Super Shiok Eats expanding its presence and introducing other Singaporean specialties. The recognition by Auckland’s Iconic Eats List may well open doors to broader culinary adventures and celebratory feasts.