Legacy Building: Song Fa Bak Kut Teh’s Yeo Hart Pong on staying true to the heart of Singapore’s local food scene

While the restaurant was successful, Hart Pong recalls tension with his father over the introduction of the Point of Sale (POS) system. “I wanted to move away from the conventional way of running a business or stall, like how my father did, which he disagreed [with],” he explains. Hart Pong replaced manual ordering and cash payments with a POS system. Although his father was initially opposed to the change, which led to the duo not speaking to each other for some time, Eng Song eventually came around.

Today, Hart Pong transformed his father’s single-stall bak kut teh business into a thriving chain and a landmark in Asia.  Currently, Song Fa operates 14 outlets across Singapore, with three more locations in the works. Beyond expansion, Hart Pong also introduced new concept stores like Song Fa Kway Chap and Song Fa Signatures, building on the foundation his father laid.

One of the brand’s most challenging periods of time for the brand was during the Covid-19 pandemic. Previously, Song Fa had avoided relying on food delivery platforms. But the pandemic forced them to rethink their approach.

“It was during this period of turmoil and uncertainty that Song Fa became stronger and this strength was built on the unwavering support of our employees that stood by us through the hard times… we were in this together and that sense of unity and commitment carried us through.”

The pandemic was not only challenging for the brand, but also a dark time for Hart Pong personally. “[It was] a period when I doubted myself the most and constantly wondered when the light at the end of the tunnel would appear,” he explains. The second-generation owner recalls countless conference calls and brainstorming sessions with his team as they searched for creative ways to keep the business afloat. “It was incredibly unsettling, knowing that so many livelihoods depended on me and Song Fa,” he reflects.

Despite the doubts and pressure, his commitment to keeping the team intact remained clear. Although uncertainty was constant during that period, his determination motivated him to push through and lead the brand forward.

For Hart Pong, continuing the family legacy goes beyond business success. This is not just about the business. It’s about ensuring that our next generation stays connected to our beginnings, our origins and the rich cultural history that defines us,” he explains.

He continues to grow the family business today, pushing it to new heights while honouring its rich heritage. One of the brand’s key initiatives is the Song Fa Kids’ Club, which engages and educates the younger generation about the history and culture of bak kut teh in a fun and interactive way. To further highlight the heritage of the beloved dish, Song Fa has also collaborated with the Singapore Heritage Board and family-run tea business Pek Sin Choon to launch a series of tea appreciation workshops.

Despite its growth and evolution, Song Fa remains steadfast in preserving its original cooking methods passed down since 1969. The brand’s signature peppery broth is crafted using time-tested techniques such as slow simmering and careful ingredient selection, ensuring its bold and comforting flavours. “Song Fa ensures that the heart of its traditional Teochew-style preparation remains unchanged across all outlets,” he emphasises.

With brands like Song Fa dedicated to preserving the origins of traditional dishes, future generations will continue remembering and savouring the flavours and culture which define the nation.

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