The durian, often referred to as the “king of fruits,” is a tropical delicacy native to Southeast Asia. Recognised for its formidable spiky exterior and pungent aroma, the durian evokes strong reactions from those who encounter it. Its custard-like flesh is rich, creamy, and complex, with flavours that range from sweet and almond-like to savoury and slightly bitter. Some describe its taste as a blend of caramel, cheese, and garlic, while others find it overpowering. Despite its divisive scent, which has led to bans in certain public spaces, the durian remains a beloved fruit among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique character and indulgent texture.
In Singapore, the durian enjoys immense popularity, particularly during peak seasons when locals eagerly seek out the freshest harvests. Its cultural significance and reputation as a luxurious treat have cemented its place in the hearts of many Singaporeans. Fortunately, those in search of high-quality durians need not look far, as there are numerous trusted vendors across the country offering a wide selection of varieties. Yishun, in particular, has become known for its reliable durian sellers, making it a convenient destination for aficionados. Indeed, Yishun is known for offering high-quality durians that are perfect for dessert or snacks. Whether one prefers the bittersweet notes of Mao Shan Wang or the milder taste of D24, Singapore offers ample opportunities to savour this iconic fruit. Read on to find out where you can find the best durians in Yishun that will surely satisfy your cravings for this sweet and savoury fruit.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Xiao Hei Fresh Durians
Xiao Hei Fresh Durians, located at Block 925 Yishun Central 1, is a well-regarded destination for durian lovers seeking premium fruit at competitive prices. Operating under the T.P.T Fruit Juice Fruit Store, this vendor of quality durians in Yishun offers a curated selection of durians sourced from Pahang and Johor, including Black Gold Mao Shan Wang, Red Prawn, and Golden Phoenix. The stall is known for its transparent pricing and generous promotions, such as discounted bundles and free delivery for bulk purchases. Customers are encouraged to try the durians in a recommended tasting order to fully appreciate the nuanced flavours of each variety.
The stall’s commitment to freshness and quality is evident in its daily restocks and meticulous handling of the fruit. Xiao Hei has built a loyal following by offering consistent value and a welcoming experience, whether one is purchasing a single box or planning a durian party. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to guide customers through their options, making it an ideal spot for both seasoned durian aficionados and curious newcomers. With its central location near Northpoint City and its reputation for excellence, Xiao Hei Fresh Durians remains a standout in Yishun’s vibrant durian scene.
Prices:
- Starting Price: The price for a Black Gold durian dropped from $22 to $18 per kilogram. This indicates a fluctuating price point, with $18 being a potential starting price, though it can vary depending on the season and daily market rates.
- Top Products: The stall is highly regarded for its Black Gold, a premium version of Mao Shan Wang. This variety is a favourite among customers who appreciate its quality and intense flavour profile.
- Promotions or Discounts: The owner, known as Xiao Hei, has been observed to offer small discounts to returning customers. For instance, a customer was given a $1.30 discount on their purchase, showcasing a friendly and appreciative approach to customer loyalty.
Highlights:
- This stall is well-known for its Black Gold durian, which is considered an enhanced version of the popular Mao Shan Wang. Customers often return for the quality and the uniquely bitter-sweet flavour of their durians.
- The primary specialisation is providing high-quality, bittersweet durians, particularly the Black Gold variety. The owner, Xiao Hei, has a reputation for being an expert in selecting good fruit and for giving personalised service.
- The owner, Xiao Hei, is known for his excellent customer service and friendly nature. He has been observed to offer small discounts to returning customers, making them feel valued.
- The owner is skilled at selecting durians that match a customer’s preferences, such as a preference for a bittersweet taste. He even rejected a durian he had initially recommended because he could tell it would not meet the customer’s expectations.
Business Reviews:
1. My our first visit to Xiao Hei Durian and we was welcome with humbleness by the boss Mr Jeffrey even though he was about to do his stall closing for the day. But yet, he patiently attended to our enquiry as we was particularly looking for red prawns as it always been our favorite choice. Instead of saying ‘No More or turning us away’, he offered us a reasonable deal and took the effort to bring in a new sealed stack of durians, opened up let us taste before started packing for us patiently while chatting with us. He even generously gave us some to even taste and gosh it was so good!!! Immediately I increased the order to 4 boxes from just 2..😁 Hahaha…!! Mr Jeffrey is very knowledgeable and knows how to pick the best for his customers. Also offers the best price possible unlike some other durians sellers who either scams or quotes high prices! Mr Jeffrey have many regular customers and from now onwards I gonna one too to support a good humble biz man like him. Honestly, NO REGRETS!!😁😍 Do support him👍🏻
2. I went to this durian stall last Friday after searching online for durians. We reached there about 3.30pm and waited for a while and saw the fresh durian baskets arriving. The owner was friendly and asked us to wait a little while he did some checking. He suggested us to get the Black Gold Mao Shan Wang, so we got 2 durians. They weighed about 3.4kg and at $22/kg. Vacuum-sealing was available. However I have to comment that the vacuum-seal was not well enough if you don’t want the smell of durians to permeate the air, so I would suggest you to bring an extra bag or two to put the boxes in them. I got another red prawn durian for $22, but I didn’t manage to see its price and weight. We tried the durians at home and we were in for a treat! They tasted really good! Good quality durians I would say. The durians were pungent(in a good way), so I guess that’s why even vacuum packing them can’t hold in the smell. The picture of the durian seeds are of the Black Gold Mao Shan Wang. Overall it was a very good experience at Xiao Hei’s durian stall!
3. First time buying durian from seller, a referral from a friend. Dennis is very responsive and helpful in recommending the right durian to your liking. I simply had to tell him that I wanted sweet ones, and he said he will pick out the right ones for me. The durian boxes were delivered to my house promptly, fresh, and tasted sweet and creamy. Honestly, the best ones I ever tasted so far. Dennis’ customer service is really commendable and I will definitely be a returning customer.
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/xiao.hei.durian/ |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 24 Hours |
| Number: | 9446 9319 |
| Address: | 925 Yishun Central 1, #01-239, Singapore 760925 |
2. Durian Lah
Durian Lah, situated at Block 761 Yishun Street 72, is a vibrant and customer-friendly durian stall that prides itself on offering fresh stock daily and a wide range of cultivars. The stall features popular varieties such as Musang King, Golden Phoenix, and Red Prawn, each priced competitively and available for walk-in selection. Customers are invited to choose their durians on the spot, ensuring transparency and satisfaction. The stall also runs weekend promotions, including whole durians at discounted rates and bundle deals that cater to gatherings and gifting.
What sets Durian Lah apart is its emphasis on good vibes and community engagement. The stall is just a short walk from Yishun MRT, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. With island-wide delivery available and free delivery for orders above a certain amount, Durian Lah combines convenience with quality. The team encourages customers to tag their durian feasts on social media, fostering a sense of celebration around the fruit. Whether one is seeking a rich, buttery Musang King or a sweet, sticky Red Prawn, Durian Lah offers a delightful durian experience in the heart of Yishun.
Prices:
- Starting Price: The starting price for XO D24 durians is listed at $20 per kilogram, which provides a good entry point for customers. For more premium options, their Mao Shan Wang from Pahangis priced at $41 per kilogram, indicating a wide range of prices to suit different budgets.
- Top Products: Durian Lah is known for its curated selection of durians from both Penang and Pahang. Their Black Gold, Pahang Mao Shan Wang, and XO D24 are particularly popular, with many customers noting the rich flavours and creamy texture.
- Promotions or Discounts: This vendor offers free replacements for any bad durians, which is a great quality guarantee for customers. They also provide free delivery for orders that exceed $100, which is an excellent incentive for larger purchases.
Highlights:
- Durian Lah is recognised for offering a broad selection of durians from both Penang and Pahang. They are a popular choice for those who appreciate variety and quality from different regions.
- Their main specialisation lies in providing premium durians, with a particular focus on varieties such as Pahang Mao Shan Wang, Black Gold, and XO D24. The stall is known for the rich and creamy texture of its fruit.
- A key highlight of their service is the quality assurance they provide, which includes a free replacement policy for any durians that are not up to standard. This helps to build customer trust and confidence in their products.
- Durian Lah also offers free delivery for orders above a specific amount, making it convenient for customers who prefer to have their durians delivered to their home. This adds to the ease and accessibility of their services.
Business Reviews:
1. Kickstarted my durian season with fantastic durians from Durian Lah! Highly recommended to all family and friends. Just check out that thick creamy flesh! Yum!
2. Young and honest sellers! The musang king was really good. Durian was fresh, flesh was firm and taste really good. Highly recommended stall.
3. Very impressed with the quality of durians from this stall! We had Mao Shan Wang, selected fresh with husk and opened it ourselves. The durian was creamy with a rich, sweet flavor and just the right texture! Not too mushy, with small seeds and plenty of flesh. It was honestly so good we didn’t even pause to take a photo before finishing almost everything. Highly recommended! 👍🏼
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574623784395 |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Number: | 8269 8324 |
| Address: | 761 Yishun Street 72, #01-362, Singapore 760761 |
3. Fruit Monkeys
Another dependable seller when it comes to fresh durians in Yishun is Fruit Monkeys. Located at Block 293 Yishun Street 22, it is a durian vendor driven by a genuine passion for the fruit. The team behind Fruit Monkeys is committed to sourcing the finest durians from Malaysia and offering them at fair prices to the Singaporean public. Their selection includes popular varieties such as Mao Shan Wang and D13 Red Prawn, sold in generous 530g packs. Customers can enjoy bundle deals, with discounts for multiple boxes and free delivery for orders exceeding a set amount, making it ideal for sharing among family and friends.
The stall has earned a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction, with a focus on freshness and flavour. Fruit Monkeys operates daily from early afternoon until late evening, ensuring that durians are available at convenient hours. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to assist customers in selecting the best fruit for their preferences. With its welcoming atmosphere and dedication to quality, Fruit Monkeys has become a trusted name in Yishun’s durian landscape, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the durian experience.
Prices:
- Starting Price: Their Mao Shan Wang is priced at $24 per kilogram, while their Red Prawn is available at a more affordable $12 per kilogram. This range allows customers to choose between a premium experience and a budget-friendly option.
- Top Products: The stall is praised for its high-quality Mao Shan Wang and Red Prawn durians. They are known for providing both air-conditioned and alfresco seating, making the dining experience more comfortable.
- Promotions or Discounts: Fruit Monkeys offers a notable walk-in promotion to buy three Mao Shan Wang durians and get one free for $100, which is a significant saving. They also provide free delivery for purchases that are above $180, encouraging larger orders.
Highlights:
- Fruit Monkeys is famous for its indoor, air-conditioned dining experience, which is a comfortable alternative to the usual roadside stalls. They are also known for their knowledgeable staff and professional packing services for takeaway orders.
- Their specialisation is providing a premium, high-quality durian experience, whether customers are dining in or taking away. They focus on popular varieties like Mao Shan Wang and Red Prawn, sourcing the best fruit from places like Johor and Pahang.
- They often run distinctive promotions, such as a ‘buy three, get one free’ deal on Mao Shan Wang durians. These deals provide excellent value for customers who are purchasing in larger quantities.
- The stall prioritises customer convenience by offering a comfortable environment for eating and providing free delivery for larger orders. Their air-tight packing also ensures that takeaway durians do not leave any lingering smells.
Business Reviews:
1. Indoor seating area. Very good quality and affordable as well. Staffs very friendly. Definitely will come back again. Update: Came back second time. Quality still as good. Price still as affordable. Boss very nice to treat us drinks after our durian feast. Definitely will come back again for the third time.
2. One of the more honest and reasonable price durian seller. Delivery was on time as well. Ordered 3 boxes of msw and they gave me 2msw n 1 black gold. 😋
3. Superb find in my neighborhood for top notch durians! Located in Flora Vista, specialize in black gold MSW fresh from Pahang, each box 700g usually $55, this week 3 boxes $138. Super nice, creamy, has wine notes!
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/FruitMonkeysDurian/ |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 1 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Number: | 9145 2860 |
| Address: | 293 Yishun Street 22, #01-219, Singapore 760293 |
4. Famous Durian
Last but definitely not least in this list of the best durians in Yishun is Famous Durian. Located at Block 848 Yishun Street 81, it is one of the most iconic durian stalls in the area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality offerings. The stall is helmed by the affable Anthony, whose dedication to sourcing top-tier durians has earned him a loyal customer base. Famous Durian specialises in varieties, such as Mao Shan Wang and Black Gold, with seasonal promotions that attract both locals and tourists. The stall operates from mid-afternoon to late evening, making it a popular stop for post-work indulgence.
Beyond its impressive selection, Famous Durian offers a memorable shopping experience. The staff are well-versed in the nuances of each durian type and are eager to help customers find their ideal match. Visitors are welcome to sample before purchasing, ensuring satisfaction with every box. The stall’s location near public transport and its reputation for honesty and quality make it a cornerstone of Yishun’s durian culture. Whether one is seeking a creamy, bittersweet treat or simply exploring the world of durians, Famous Durian provides a warm and flavourful welcome.
Prices:
- Starting Price: The starting price for Mao Shan Wang durians at Famous Durian is $18 per kilogram. This competitive price point makes it an attractive option for durian lovers.
- Top Products: The stall is famous for its quality Mao Shan Wang durians. They are known for having a large quantity of durians stacked at their storefront, suggesting a consistent supply of this popular variety.
- Promotions or Discounts: Famous Durian keeps its customers informed by posting daily price updates and promotions on its Facebook page. Additionally, they are known to accept SG60 and CDC vouchers, offering customers more flexible payment options.
Highlights:
- This stall is renowned for its community engagement and generous charitable initiatives. The owner once gave away $30,000 worth of durians to the elderly, showcasing a strong commitment to giving back.
- Famous Durian’s main specialisation is in providing high-quality Mao Shan Wang durians at competitive prices. The stall has built a reputation for its transparent pricing policies and for being a reliable source of this popular variety.
- The stall is widely recognised for its social conscience, which includes not only the durian giveaway but also a gesture of goodwill to a scam victim. This has earned them a positive reputation within the community.
- Famous Durian is very proactive in its communication with customers, regularly updating its Facebook page with daily prices and any ongoing promotions. This transparency is a key highlight of their business practice.
Business Reviews:
1. Awesome!! Price and Durians both good. The Q was long but the seller action fast, they will open and show you every single piece that u buying, trusted seller. The durian taste so nice and creamy really worth the $$. Sure will come back and BUY!! They have D13, Tekka, MSW and etcs. I have tried MSW and D13…Superb!!!
2. First time patronise this stall. Bought about 3.6kg of Pahang MSW. The sellers are honest as they open to inspect and only give good durians, even replace those not-so-good seeds with good quality ones. No queue at 9pm on a Saturday night.
3. You can definitely trust Famous Durian. I’ve purchased from them many times and pictured are some MSW I’ve gotten over the years (affordable B mao and not the more premium ones). Excellent price and quality, and they’re very fast so you don’t even have to wait long! There was once when the boxed durians I bought were potato and I brought it back down, was given a refund immediately no questions asked. Boss Anthony and his staff are really friendly and kind, not at all arrogant + willing to entertain your business no matter how much you purchase. I reserved some durians recently and they arrived late due to a jam at customs, they were polite and apologetic about it although it’s beyond their control. Service regarding the collection was thoughtful and picking the durians up after their arrival was a fuss-free process. One of the rare honest durian shops around that I’d recommend everyone. Note: They are located next to a coffeeshop (Chang Cheng the $40 million one) opposite Sheng Siong, NOT the ones in the main atrium.
| Website: | https://web.facebook.com/Famousdurian |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 3 PM – 10 PM |
| Number: | 9898 7238 |
| Address: | 848 Yishun Street 81, Singapore 760848 |
Conclusion
If you are planning a durian-hunting trip to Yishun, why not turn it into a delightful day out? After indulging in the best durians in Yishun with their creamy, fresh goodness, you can continue your foodie adventure by exploring some charming cafes in Yishun for a cosy coffee break. Whether you are catching up with friends or simply enjoying some me-time, these spots offer the perfect setting to relax and unwind after your durian feast.
And if you are still in the mood for more local treats, you could savour a plate of the best chicken rice in the area or satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop (or two!) of delicious ice creams in Yishun. With so many flavours, textures, and experiences waiting for you, Yishun is truly a place where food lovers can indulge from morning till night – and we think that’s worth every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where can I find the best Mao Shan Wang durians in Yishun?
Yishun is a well-known location for durian lovers, and several stalls are highly regarded for their Mao Shan Wang (MSW) durians. Residents often mention stalls like Famous Durian and Fruit Monkeys for their quality and consistent supply of this popular variety. Famous Durian, in particular, is noted for its competitive pricing, sometimes offering MSW for as low as $18 per kilogram, which draws long queues. Fruit Monkeys is also a strong contender, offering MSW at a slightly higher price point but providing a more comfortable, air-conditioned environment for customers who wish to enjoy their durians on-site.
Both of these vendors focus on sourcing premium durians, with some stalls specifying they get their fruits from regions like Pahang. This is crucial as durian connoisseurs believe that durians from these older trees in specific regions have a richer and more complex flavour. When visiting, Singaporeans often check the stalls’ social media pages, such as Facebook, for daily updates on prices and stock, as this is a common practice for reputable durian sellers to maintain transparency and keep customers informed.
2. Are durians in Yishun generally cheaper than in other parts of Singapore?
Prices for durians in Yishun can be very competitive, especially during the peak season from June to August. Stalls like Famous Durian have been noted for selling Mao Shan Wang at an affordable price of $12 per kilogram during one season, which is a major draw for budget-conscious buyers. These attractive prices are a significant reason why many Singaporeans, not just Yishun residents, travel to the area to satisfy their cravings.
However, it is important to remember that durian prices are highly seasonal and can fluctuate daily based on supply and demand. While Yishun is known for its affordable options, especially during a bumper crop season, some of the premium varieties, such as Black Gold, will always command a higher price regardless of location. Therefore, while you can find some of the best deals in Yishun, it is wise to compare prices across a few stalls or check their social media updates before making a trip down.
3. What is the durian season, and how does it affect the quality and price of durians in Yishun?
Durian season in Singapore typically has two main periods: a primary season from June to August and a smaller ‘mini-season’ from December to January. During these periods, the supply of durians from Malaysia, particularly from regions like Pahang, Johor, and Penang, is at its peak. This abundance of fruit generally leads to a drop in prices and a wider selection of varieties available.
The quality of the durians is also at its best during the peak season, as the fruits are fresher and more consistently ripe. For vendors in Yishun, this means they are able to source and sell high-quality durians to customers more reliably. The best time to purchase is often considered to be around the second or third week of the peak season when prices have dropped and the durians are at their richest.
4. Do any Yishun durian stalls accept CDC vouchers?
Yes, it is common for many local hawkers and small businesses, including durian stalls in Yishun, to accept CDC vouchers. For example, Famous Durian has been noted to accept both SG60 and CDC vouchers. This is a great way for Singaporeans to use their government-issued vouchers to enjoy local delicacies and support neighbourhood businesses.
Before visiting a stall, it is always a good practice to check for signs indicating that they accept CDC vouchers, or you can simply ask the stall owner. This can help you to plan your durian purchases and make the most of the available financial support.
5. Do Yishun durian stalls offer delivery services?
Yes, many durian stalls in Yishun and online durian vendors serving the Yishun area now provide delivery services, making it very convenient for residents. Vendors such as Durian Lah and Fruit Monkeys offer delivery, often with free delivery for orders above a certain amount, such as $100 or $180. These delivery services are particularly popular with those who wish to avoid the hassle of travelling and the strong aroma of durians in their private vehicles.
Some delivery services are exceptionally fast, with vendors promising delivery within a couple of hours. To ensure the durians arrive fresh and without any lingering smell, they are usually packed in vacuum-sealed boxes. This modern convenience allows Singaporeans to enjoy fresh, high-quality durians from the comfort of their own homes.
