Grilled meats, a classic preparation found across the globe with their own unique twists. Mu kratha, better known locally as Mookata, hails from the land of smiles, Thailand. It landed on local shores and Singaporeans now gather around the medley of smoke and grease, washing down a feast of meat and seafood with unctuous soup and beer.
What is Mookata
The Mookata grill has a convex surface allowing the grilled juices to flow into a soup stock around the perimeter. The catchment area doubles as a way to boil the ingredients you do not wish to grill in an increasingly flavourful broth as the meal progresses.
This tasty and affordable option remains entrenched as a crowd favourite for dinner and suppers alike. Compared to the equally common Japanese and Korean style Barbeques, Mookata restaurants often do not serve up premium cuts such as short rib (kalbi). Each portion of food range from S$2 to S$5 on average and you will find a range of processed meats such as sausages and luncheon meat available.
While most outlets utilise a portable gas stove, spots such as “Thai Hao Chi Mookata” uses the more traditional charcoal instead. A charcoal grill lends a charred smokey addition to both the food and your clothes. Of course with the perspiration and grease going around, the extra layer may not even be noticed.
Do not expect a fine dining experience with Mookata, instead, embrace the casual chaotic ambiance.
Notable Brands
Bangkok Street Mookata
The Bangkok Street Mookata brand remains a household favourite and now has 9 outlets across the red dot. No new praise need to be sung about it, with hordes of positive review, hailing its cheap prices and wide range of ingredients. My personal favourite? The pre-peeled prawns.
Set meals for 2 (S$25) and 4 are available along with a la carte options.
Average spend of S$20.
Website: https://bangkokstreetmookata.com.sg/
Siam Square Mookata
Hailed (on their site) as one of the pioneer restaurants introducing Mookata to Singapore, Siam Square presents the dishes at a marginally higher price point. A buffet option is also available for heavy eaters, but we have found that it’s often cheaper just to go for a la carte dishes.
The choice of an air-conditioned seat inside paired with a exhaust fan above a la Korean BBQ style mitigates the searing heat of the grill. That coupled with the take-it-yourself minced garlic (perfect to flavour the broth) and pork lard takes it up a notch.
Boasting a myriad range of offerings for the grill such as sliced abalone, the restaurant also offers up specials for those who wish to treat themselves.
Average spend of S$25.