Fab! Luxe spoke with Jason Wong, Head of Marketing – OUE Restaurants about their latest initiative, Chatterbox Express in Singapore Changi Airport.
  • Chatterbox goes back a long way; it is somewhat a legacy of Singapore. Tell us the story behind Chatterbox and the newly opened Chatterbox Express.

Chatterbox was established in 1971, originally born from the idea of bringing local street food into a more comfortable setting. What started as a simple idea has evolved into a well-loved brand that has stood the test of time. Over 51 years later, Chatterbox has built a strong following, both locally and internationally, thanks to the timeless appeal of its signature Mandarin chicken rice and a variety of other local hawker delights. We are proud to be a favorite destination for repeat guests who continue to enjoy our authentic flavors.

Our newest venture, Chatterbox Express at Changi Airport Terminal 1’s transit lounge, marks an exciting milestone for us. This outlet is designed to offer both locals and tourists a taste of Singapore, with a menu that highlights our beloved chicken rice along with other fan favorites. At Chatterbox Express, we maintain our commitment to quality by continuing to use premium ingredients and fresh produce, ensuring that every dish is as true and flavorful as the original Chatterbox experience. Our aim is to give travelers a last opportunity before they fly to have a taste, or perhaps if they can’t get enough of it, or even if they would like to take it to-go for someone back home.

  • Why the name Chatterbox Express?

The name “Chatterbox Express” reflects our commitment to bringing the authentic Chatterbox experience to a wider audience, especially in fast-paced environments like airports. The word “Chatterbox” has always been synonymous with lively conversations, warm hospitality, and a place to connect over great food. The addition of “Express” signifies the convenience and speed we aim to offer at our new location, ensuring that travelers can enjoy the same high-quality, flavorful dishes, even when on the go. It’s all about sharing the essence of Chatterbox in an accessible and no-frills way, without compromising on the quality and authenticity our customers have come to know and love.

  • Why Changi Airport?

We are a proud Singapore brand, and also very proud of our airport. It all just made sense. With a strong presence in the heart of Orchard Road, we felt it was the perfect time to bring the rich heritage and legacy of the Chatterbox brand to Changi Airport, allowing both locals and tourists to enjoy a taste of home or take it with them to share with loved ones.

  • Your chicken rice is said to be next to none, what other dishes should diners look out for?

While our Mandarin Chicken Rice has become a main favourite with guests over the decades, some others that are very well received too are our Signature Laksa, and the Chicken Curry, . Both dishes have deep cultural roots, and at Chatterbox Express, we prepare them to honour our history. The laksa boasts a rich, creamy coconut broth with a blend of aromatic spices and smooth noodles, while the chicken curry is made with a fragrant rempah (spices), offering succulent chicken pieces perfect for dipping with bread or pairing with warm rice.

  • What makes Chatterbox chicken rice special?

With a fiercely guarded recipe that’s largely remained unchanged throughout its history, the Chatterbox, Mandarin Chicken Rice, has remained consistent. With each bite, patrons get the same taste, each and every time – consistency is key here and something the chefs have mastered to a tee. The consistency extends also to cooking methods, produce and presentation. The chickens used are reared longer than the usual timeframe and translate to larger birds yielding superior quality. With freshly delivered chickens all year long and a keen cooking process in a time-honoured stock recipe, diners will always be assured the exact taste, fragrance and quality. This in itself makes the Mandarin Chicken Rice, unique, special and satisfying.

  • Being at Changi Airport, your patrons are locals, visitors and transit passengers in Singapore.  What would you like these diners to remember Chatterbox Express or (Singapore, for that matter) for?

If you’ve dined at Chatterbox Express and left with the unforgettable flavors of our outstanding chicken rice, laksa, or chicken curry, then we’ve done our job of translating Singapore’s iconic hawker delights. Singapore boasts some of the best cuisine in the world. Our goal is to share the love of this vibrant food haven to our patrons, ensuring they leave with a lasting impression of the local food scene or fondly remember the taste long after they’ve gone.

  • How have your diners evolved, from the time Chatterbox first started up till now?

Our diner profile has evolved into a multi-generational one. We’ve had the privilege of serving not only the families and friends of our original patrons but also their children and grandchildren, creating a cycle that continues to repeat. To be part of these families’ milestones over the years has been a true honor. Our staff has had the pleasure of seeing children grow into adults and parents become grandparents, a testament to the rich 51-year history of Chatterbox.

  • What’s next for Chatterbox?

Stay tuned—Chatterbox is here to stay, and we’re working on expanding the brand both locally and globally for generations to come.

In 2025, we will be bringing the Chatterbox brand overseas and opening in quite a few new cities. Once again spreading the love of our cuisine that we truly love, and flying our Singapore flag which we are very proud to do.