Cheap and Good Restaurants in Singapore: A Budget-Friendly Culinary Journey
Gagan Singh
Author
Published on Invalid Date
Singapore's food scene is famous for its vast array of flavors and dining experiences. The city-state's culinary heritage is a melting pot of influences from its Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan communities, making it a paradise for food lovers. While it’s true that fine dining can come with a hefty price tag in Singapore, the city also boasts a wide selection of cheap and good restaurants in Singapore that provide exceptional value.
For both locals and visitors, discovering these budget-friendly options allows you to savor the essence of Singapore’s culinary culture without compromising on quality. Whether you're seeking a quick snack or a full meal, these affordable dining spots offer delicious food at prices that won’t stretch your budget. So, why not explore Singapore’s hidden dining gems and indulge in flavorsome dishes at affordable prices?
Top 10 Cheap and Good Restaurants in Singapore
Singapore is home to an incredible food scene, offering everything from local street food to international flavors, all at budget-friendly prices. If you’re looking for cheap and good restaurants in Singapore, these spots are perfect for food lovers who don’t want to break the bank. From iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice to delicious dim sum, these restaurants combine exceptional flavors with affordability. Here’s a more detailed look at some of the top choices:
1. Akasa
- Cuisine: Indian
- Signature Dishes: Butter Chicken, Tandoori Prawns, 3-Course Set Lunch
- Ambience: Located in Singapore’s central business district, Akasa blends elegance with a casual atmosphere, making it ideal for both quick bites and leisurely meals.
- Why It’s Great: Akasa delivers Indian cuisine with an elegant touch but at affordable prices, offering high-quality dishes without the hefty price tag. The restaurant’s 3-course set lunch is a standout, providing excellent value for money.
Why Visit: If you love Indian food but want a more refined dining experience without the high cost, Akasa provides a balance of both. With the addition of an extensive happy hour menu, it's a great spot for after-work dinners or casual meals with friends.
2. Kim Dae Mun Korean Food
- Cuisine: Korean
- Signature Dishes: Bibimbap, Kimchi Soup, Spicy Pork Bulgogi
- Location: Orchard Road, Singapore’s shopping district
- Unique Feature: Affordable prices with generous portions of authentic Korean food.
- Ambience: Cozy and casual, Kim Dae Mun offers a relaxed setting for enjoying hearty Korean meals.
Why Visit: For an authentic taste of Korea, Kim Dae Mun is a must-try. The dishes are made with high-quality ingredients, and the flavors are bold and traditional. Whether you’re craving a filling bibimbap or a warming bowl of kimchi soup, this place won’t disappoint.
3. Tipo Pasta Bar
- Cuisine: Italian
- Signature Dishes: Pappardelle with Beef Ragu, Carbonara, Gnocchi
- Why It’s Great: Tipo offers a build-your-own-pasta concept where diners can choose their preferred pasta, sauces, and toppings, giving them full control over their meal. It’s an interactive dining experience that’s both fun and budget-friendly.
Why Visit: For pasta lovers on a budget, Tipo is a must-visit spot. The fresh, handmade pasta is cooked to perfection, and the ability to customize your dish makes it a delightful experience. Plus, the prices are extremely reasonable for the quality of food offered.
4. Dumpling Darlings
- Cuisine: Chinese and Fusion
- Signature Dishes: Dumplings with a twist, Sweet & Sour Chicken Dumplings, Ramen-inspired Dumplings
- Why It’s Great: Dumpling Darlings reinvents the traditional dumpling, offering creative variations of this beloved dish. With its quirky flavors and unique take on dumplings, it’s a fun and affordable dining option for those looking for something different.
Why Visit: If you love dumplings but are looking for something out of the ordinary, Dumpling Darlings is the place for you. From their spicy dumplings to their signature sauces, the restaurant offers a fresh take on this classic dish, all at a price that won’t break the bank.
5. Eat 3 Bowls
- Cuisine: Taiwanese
- Signature Dishes: Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice), Beef Noodle Soup, Dumplings
- Why It’s Great: Known for its hearty portions and budget-friendly pricing, Eat 3 Bowls brings authentic Taiwanese comfort food to the heart of Singapore. With most dishes priced under $10, it’s the perfect spot for satisfying meals without a hefty bill.
Why Visit: For a true taste of Taiwan, Eat 3 Bowls delivers delicious, homestyle meals. Their Lu Rou Fan and Beef Noodle Soup are standouts, but no matter what you order, you’ll enjoy a warm, flavorful experience. It’s a place where you can eat well for under $10, making it a great option for budget-conscious diners.
6. MTR Singapore
- Cuisine: South Indian Vegetarian
- Signature Dishes: Masala Dosa, Uddina Vada, Pongal
- Why It’s Great: MTR is a name synonymous with authentic South Indian vegetarian food. With its rich history dating back over 90 years, it offers traditional dosas, vadas, and more, at incredibly affordable prices.
Why Visit: South Indian food lovers will rejoice at the variety and authenticity of the dishes served at MTR. The crispy dosas and soft vadas, paired with flavorful chutneys, provide a satisfying and filling meal that won’t hurt your wallet.
7. Wanderlog Picks (Culinary Recommendations)
- Cuisine: Various (Indian, Chinese, Western)
- Recommendations: Dumpling Darlings, Tipo Pasta Bar, Two Men Bagel House
- Why It’s Great: According to recommendations from various blogs, these spots are celebrated for their balance of affordability and high-quality food. Whether you’re craving dumplings, pasta, or bagels, these spots cater to diverse tastes and remain easy on the pocket.
Why Visit: This curated list of cheap and good restaurants in Singapore offers something for everyone. From pasta lovers to dumpling enthusiasts, these popular choices have received rave reviews for their flavors and affordability.
8. Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice
- Cuisine: Singaporean (Hainanese)
- Signature Dishes: Hainanese Chicken Rice, Chilli Crab
- Why It’s Great: One of the most famous Hainanese chicken rice stalls in Singapore, Tian Tian offers tender chicken served with fragrant rice, paired with flavorful chili sauce. Despite being a Michelin Guide-listed stall, the prices remain extremely affordable.
Why Visit: Tian Tian serves one of the best chicken rice dishes in Singapore. This humble hawker stall proves that Michelin-caliber food doesn’t always come with a high price tag. It’s a quintessential Singaporean dish that you must try when in the city.
9. Singapore Zam Zam
- Cuisine: Malay-Indian
- Signature Dishes: Murtabak, Biryani, Roti John
- Why It’s Great: Singapore Zam Zam is a historic institution serving flavorful Malay-Indian dishes like Murtabak (stuffed flatbread) and Biryani. Known for its large portions and reasonable pricing, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Why Visit: For a hearty and affordable meal, Singapore Zam Zam is a great choice. Their Murtabak and Biryani are beloved by many, and the price-to-portion ratio makes it an excellent deal for anyone on a budget.
10. Nhung Kitchen
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Signature Dishes: Banh Mi, Pho, Vietnamese Rice Dishes
- Why It’s Great: Nhung Kitchen offers delicious Vietnamese street food at incredibly reasonable prices. The Banh Mi sandwiches and Pho are the perfect pick for anyone craving fresh, tasty Vietnamese cuisine without spending a fortune.
Why Visit: Nhung Kitchen brings the best of Vietnam’s street food scene to Singapore, offering quick, affordable, and flavorful meals. Whether you’re in the mood for Pho or a delicious Banh Mi, you’ll find plenty of options that fit both your taste and your budget.
What Makes These Restaurants Stand Out?
The cheap and good restaurants in Singapore listed above are characterized by:
Authenticity: Whether it’s a Michelin-starred hawker stall or a beloved local eatery, each spot serves dishes that stay true to their culinary roots.
Affordability: Despite their outstanding quality, these restaurants offer affordable prices, catering to those who want great food without overspending.
Quality: Fresh ingredients, carefully crafted dishes, and bold flavors ensure that each meal is a delight, proving that you don’t need to spend a lot for exceptional food.
Variety: From Indian to Vietnamese, these restaurants offer a range of cuisines, allowing diners to explore diverse flavors without breaking the bank.
Tips for Enjoying Affordable Dining in Singapore
- Leverage Food Apps and Reviews: Use apps like Chope or HungryGoWhere to find cheap and good restaurants in Singapore and read recent customer reviews.
- Go During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid crowds and sometimes enjoy special deals or discounts, consider dining during less busy hours like late lunch or early dinner.
- Explore Hawker Centers: Singapore's hawker centers are a great place to find affordable, high-quality meals. Some of the best cheap and good restaurants in Singapore are actually street food stalls here.
Conclusion
Singapore's food scene is diverse, vibrant, and full of hidden gems. From elegant Indian cuisine at Akasa to casual street eats like Hainanese chicken rice at Tian Tian, no shortage of cheap and good restaurants in Singapore offer fantastic meals at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for traditional fare or something a bit more adventurous, these spots will ensure you enjoy the best of Singapore’s culinary offerings without stretching your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Akasa offers royal Authentic Indian dishes at affordable prices and is perfect for those craving a extravagance dining experience on a budget.
MTR Singapore specializes in South Indian vegetarian dishes like dosas and vadas, all under $10.
Yes, Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice is a Michelin Guide-listed hawker stall known for its affordable and tasty chicken rice.
Tipo Pasta Bar offers affordable Italian pasta with a build-your-own concept, perfect for pasta lovers on a budget.
Kim Dae Mun Korean Food offers delicious and authentic Korean dishes like Bibimbap and Kimchi Soup, all at very affordable prices.
Yes, places like Nhung Kitchen serve street food-style Vietnamese meals, such as Banh Mi and rice dishes, at budget-friendly prices.
Areas like Orchard Road, Tanjong Pagar, and near Sultan Mosque are home to several affordable dining spots that cater to a range of tastes.
Use food apps and local blogs to discover lesser-known gems, and consider visiting hawker centers for authentic and affordable Singaporean dishes.