From Delibowl to First Bowl and Why People Still Keep Coming Back
First Bowl Singapore, Delibowl rebrand, halal Sichuan food Singapore, Double Cooked Beef, Di San Xian, halal Chinese food Singapore
If you have been eating halal Sichuan-style Chinese food in Singapore for a while, there is a high chance you already know Delibowl. What you may not have noticed yet is that Delibowl has quietly rebranded and is now known as First Bowl.
The good news first. They are still halal certified. That alone will make a lot of people breathe effortlessly—same kitchen style, same flavour direction, just a new name.
I actually visited them back when they were still Delibowl and recently went back again under the First Bowl name. So this is a proper before-and-after perspective.
From Delibowl to First Bowl
Same Soul New Name
The rebrand from Delibowl to First Bowl does not feel like a complete reset. It feels more like a polish. The menu still leans heavily into bold Sichuan flavours and comfort-style Chinese dishes that work well for sharing.
What has changed over the years, though, is the price.
The Price Reality
Still Tasty But Getting Close to the Line
Let us be honest. Prices have risen significantly over the years. What used to feel like an easy, affordable, regular spot is now edging into that territory where you start asking yourself whether it is still worth it.
The taste is still good—mind-blowing but solid and satisfying. I really hope they do not increase prices much more, because if it crosses that following psychological line, it might become a once-in-a-while treat instead of a regular craving spot.
What I Ordered and Why You Should Care
Double Cooked Marinated Beef Slices 回锅牛肉
This was the highlight. No hesitation.
The Double Cooked Marinated Beef Slices are delicious. Properly marinated beef cooked twice so it is tender but still has bite. The sauce is bold, savoury, slightly spicy, and incredibly addictive. This is one of those dishes where you keep reaching back for more, even when you are already full.
If you only order one dish here, make it this.
Sichuan Style Fried Eggplant 伤心茄子
This is another must-order. The eggplant is soft and creamy inside and coated with a rich Sichuan-style sauce that hits that sweet-savoury-spicy balance.
It is the kind of dish that disappears fast from the table without anyone realising who took the last bite.
Fried Potato Eggplant and Long Bean 地三鲜
A classic done right.
Crispy potatoes, tender eggplant, and crunchy long beans, tossed together in a comforting sauce. Simple ingredients but appropriately executed. It works exceptionally well if you are sharing dishes and want something that balances out heavier meat options.
Halal Certified and Why That Matters
One Less Thing to Worry About
One of the biggest reasons Delibowl and, now, First Bowl have built such a loyal following is their consistency, plus halal certification. You can enjoy proper Chinese flavours without second-guessing ingredients or preparation.
That trust matters especially when it comes to Sichuan-style food, where sauces and seasonings can sometimes be challenging to discern elsewhere.
Is First Bowl Still Worth Visiting
My Honest Take
Yes, but with a small caveat.
The food is still tasty. Some dishes are genuinely delicious. The halal certification remains a huge plus. But the prices are definitely worth keeping an eye on.
If prices stay where they are now, I will still come back. If they creep up much more, it might start feeling like the value just isn’t there anymore.
For now, though, if you are craving halal Sichuan-style Chinese food in Singapore, First Bowl is still very much in the conversation.
Final Thoughts
Rebrands come and go. What really matters is whether the food still delivers.
First Bowl, formerly Delibowl, still delivers on flavour. Just keep those prices in check, and you will keep people coming back.
If you have already tried First Bowl, let me know what you ordered. And if you have not, would you go straight for the Double Cooked Beef, or are you team eggplant all the way
Google Reviws:
Beef dry and a bit tough
Sesame Oil Chicken with Taro Set, $9.35
Chicken was tender. Taro flurry texture. But sauce salty
Tofu salad, Fu Zhu salad and Cold mixed cucumber ordinary tasting.
No Service Charge and GST. Muslim friends can enjoy as it is Halal certfied.
Seating capacity around 20 pax. QR ordering and cashless payment. There is a self service ordering kiosk option for your convenience.
Self service taking of food and tray return upon completed dining.
Overall average food dining
FAQ:
Is First Bowl the same as Delibowl
Yes. First Bowl is the rebranded name. The style is still similar, hearty Chinese comfort food with Sichuan leaning options.
Is First Bowl halal certified
Yes, they are still halal certified as you mentioned. If you are visiting a specific outlet, it is still smart to confirm on site because certifications can be outlet specific.
What is the must order dish at First Bowl
The Double Cooked Marinated Beef Slices 回锅牛肉. It is the one that hits the hardest on flavour.
What does Double Cooked Beef 回锅牛肉 taste like
Rich, savoury, slightly spicy, and very fragrant. The beef stays tender with a proper bite because it is cooked twice.
Is it very spicy
Usually it is more bold and fragrant than painfully spicy, but spice level can vary by outlet and day. If you are sensitive, ask for less chilli.
What are two other dishes worth ordering
Sichuan Style Fried Eggplant 伤心茄子 and Fried Potato, Eggplant and Long Bean 地三鲜. Both are super satisfying, especially when shared.
Is the eggplant dish oily
Eggplant can feel rich because it absorbs sauce well. The payoff is that soft creamy texture, so it is more comfort than light.
Has the price gone up
Yes, prices have gone up over the years. The taste is still ok, but if it rises more it may stop feeling worth it.
Is First Bowl good for sharing
Yes. These dishes are best as a table spread, one meat, one veg, one carb based side, then you are sorted.
What should I order for a first time visit
Double Cooked Beef, 伤心茄子, 地三鲜, and one rice. That gives you meat, veg, and variety without over ordering.
