During a recent visit to Singapore, tech billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates embarked on a culinary adventure that included a taste of Southeast Asia’s infamous “King of Fruits,” the durian. His highly anticipated reaction to the pungent fruit, captured in a viral video, has sparked widespread curiosity and discussion across social media, offering a rare glimpse into the billionaire’s personal palate.
The moment unfolded at Singapore’s iconic Newton Food Centre, a bustling hawker haven. Bill Gates, accompanied by an entourage, was seen sampling various local delicacies, but it was his encounter with the durian that truly captivated onlookers and online audiences. The video, shared by a TikTok user, quickly went viral.
In the short clip, Gates is observed cautiously sniffing a piece of durian pulp, a characteristic first step for anyone encountering the fruit’s unique aroma. He then bravely takes not just one, but two bites, chewing thoughtfully before setting the fruit down. His expression, while subtle, has been widely interpreted as a polite, yet unmistakable, indication that durian might not quite be to his taste.
This reaction aligns with the durian’s polarizing reputation; it’s a fruit that inspires either fervent adoration or strong aversion due to its intense smell and creamy texture. Gates’s diplomatic response, without any overt signs of dislike, still conveyed a sense of contemplation about the bold flavor profile.
His visit to Singapore coincided with the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2025, where he also announced the opening of a new Gates Foundation office in the city-state. However, it was his foray into local hawker culture, particularly his durian tasting, that unexpectedly became a major talking point.
The viral video has garnered millions of views and sparked numerous comments, with many netizens humorously interpreting his subtle head shake. Some were surprised to see one of the world’s richest men dining at a humble food court, further adding to the intrigue surrounding his visit.