Could be a difference in "taste".

While I was in SIN, I couldn't find any good restos - even the ones recommended for chili crab. The outdoor stalls were horrid and I couldn't figure why people raved about them so much. Cheap, yes, but not good. The only place I found remotely palatable in SIN was Iggy's.

I don't have this problem in HKG or BKK.