Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, boasting an incredible array of cuisines that cater to all tastes and budgets. For those seeking affordable restaurants in Singapore, the challenge is finding spots that offer wallet-friendly prices without compromising on quality or taste. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, chicken rice, or pasta dishes, this guide highlights some of the best affordable options across the city, including hidden gems and popular eateries at reasonable prices. Perfect for a casual dinner, special treat, or even a family outing, these cheap restaurants serve delicious meals that won’t dent your wallet.
Summary Section: Our Quick Picks
- MTR Singapore: A legendary South Indian spot serving hearty vegetarian meals and cheap dosai.
- Thai Tantric Authentic Thai Cuisine: A hidden gem in Orchard offering bold, spicy Thai classics at reasonable prices.
- Paper Rice @ Plaza Singapura: The perfect place to grab an affordable bowl of Vietnamese pho and iced coffee.
- Two Chefs Eating Place: A family favourite for local Chinese zi char, famous for massive portions of fried rice and meats.
- Hippo Family Restaurant: A reliable neighbourhood restaurant serving simple, delicious comfort food and vegetables.
- Pestle & Mortar Society: A relaxed cafe offering creative rice bowls and pasta without the premium price tag.
- 49 Seats The Centrepoint: An Asian-fusion diner known for great value pasta and hearty burgers right in the city centre.
- Suparakki Ramen: An affordable Japanese restaurant known for its rich, savory broths and perfectly cooked noodles.
1. MTR Singapore (Little India) – A Legendary Spot for Affordable South Indian Dishes
Price: $
MTR Singapore is a perfect place for vegetarians and anyone craving hearty, authentic South Indian food. Their menu is filled with affordable dishes like dosai, idli, and vada, all served with delicious chutneys and sambar. The Masala Thosai ($7.00) is a standout, with a crispy exterior and a spicy potato filling that satisfies your craving for comfort food without breaking the bank. Pair it with a cup of traditional filter coffee for a wallet-friendly break during your day.
Ideal for: Students, families, and vegetarian diners seeking hearty meals on a strict budget.
Steer Clear if: You are craving a heavy meat dish like beef or pork, as the menu is entirely vegetarian.
Dining tip: Order the thosai and filter coffee combo for one of the most wallet-friendly meals in the area.
2. Thai Tantric Authentic Thai Cuisine (Orchard Central) – Affordable Thai Food in the Heart of the City
Price: $ to $$
Nestled within Orchard Central, Thai Tantric is a hidden gem offering bold, spicy Thai dishes at affordable prices. Their signature dish, Tom Yum Seafood Soup ($15.00), is packed with fresh fish, squid, and prawns in a spicy and sour broth that perfectly balances heat and flavour. The pineapple fried rice is another favourite, combining salty and sweet notes that complement the soup’s spice.
Ideal for: Casual lunches, quick dinners, and groups wanting dependable Thai food.
Steer Clear if: You expect upscale service or a quiet, spacious dining environment.
Dining tip: Ask the staff for a medium spice level, as their default heat can pack a very serious punch for non-Thai diners.
3. Paper Rice @ Plaza Singapura (Dhoby Ghaut) – Fresh Vietnamese Pho and Affordable Options
Price: $ to $$
Paper Rice is a fantastic affordable restaurant in Singapore for lovers of Vietnamese cuisine. Located on the ground floor of Plaza Singapura, this casual dining spot is known for its fresh ingredients and speedy service. The Classic Beef Pho ($14.90) is simmered for hours to bring out a rich, savoury soup filled with tender beef slices and noodles, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Don’t miss pairing your pho with a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee to complete your experience. With affordable prices and a menu that caters to various tastes, Paper Rice is a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner when you’re on the go.
Ideal for: Lunch breaks, casual dinners, and budget-conscious shoppers looking for a quick bite.
Steer Clear if: You want a massive, encyclopedic menu spanning dozens of different global cuisines.
Dining tip: Combine your pho with a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee for a highly satisfying and cheap meal.
4. Two Chefs Eating Place (Queenstown) – Family-Style Zi Char with Massive Portions
Price: $ to $$
Two Chefs Eating Place is a favourite among locals for affordable Chinese zi char dishes. Known for their generous servings, this restaurant is perfect for groups and families wanting to share a variety of tasty dishes without overspending. The Butter Pork Ribs ($16.00) are a must-try, featuring crispy pork coated in a sweet, milky powder that melts in your mouth.
Other highlights include salted egg seafood and chili crab fried rice, which are perfect for satisfying your seafood cravings. The energetic atmosphere and wallet-friendly prices make this a great spot for a casual meal with friends. For those seeking a traditional dining experience, it offers a vibe reminiscent of an authentic Chinese tea room in Singapore, blending classic flavours with a welcoming environment.
Ideal for: Groups, casual family dinners, and anyone wanting to share multiple dishes.
Steer Clear if: You are dining solo, as the massive sharing portions are really meant for two or more people.
Dining tip: Arrive on a weekday evening right when they open to avoid the massive weekend queues.
5. Hippo Family Restaurant (Paya Lebar) – Reliable Local Comfort Food at Cheap Prices
Price: $
Hippo Family Restaurant serves up simple, delicious Chinese classics that taste like home-cooked meals. Their Soy Sauce Chicken Rice Combo ($8.50) is a perfect example of affordable food done well, with tender chicken served in a salty, savoury sauce alongside fragrant rice and stir-fried vegetables.
Ideal for: Families, budget groups, and weekday dinners where you just want simple food.
Steer Clear if: You are looking for a trendy, highly Instagrammable cafe aesthetic.
Dining tip: Order their combo plates that include vegetables to get a fully balanced meal at a brilliant price.
6. Pestle & Mortar Society (Aljunied) – Creative Cafe Serving Pasta and Rice Bowls
Price: $$
If you’re craving creamy pasta dishes or inventive rice bowls, Pestle & Mortar Society is a great spot to check out. This relaxed cafe offers affordable options with a creative twist, blending fresh ingredients into tasty, hearty meals. The Creamy Bacon Mushroom Pasta ($16.00) features a rich sauce filled with crispy bacon and earthy mushrooms, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal.
The cafe’s laid-back vibe and wallet-friendly prices make it a wonderful place for brunch dates or casual lunches with friends. Be sure to check their daily specials for even more great value dishes.
Ideal for: Brunch dates, casual lunches, and group meetups over a relaxed afternoon.
Steer Clear if: You want traditional local hawker centre food like nasi lemak or chili crab.
Dining tip: Check their chalkboard for daily bowl specials, which frequently use seasonal ingredients and offer even better value.
7. 49 Seats The Centrepoint (Orchard) – Asian Fusion Pasta and Burgers at Reasonable Prices
Price: $$
Located in Orchard Central, 49 Seats offers a diverse menu that combines Asian flavours with Western favourites. Their signature Tom Yum Seafood Pasta ($17.90) is a creamy, spicy dish that balances fresh seafood with a rich, flavourful sauce. Pair it with a side of fries and a drink for a satisfying meal that won’t break your budget.
This restaurant is perfect for casual diners, families, and anyone craving a hearty western-fusion meal at affordable prices. The industrial decor and friendly service add to the experience, making it a popular choice among affordable restaurants in Singapore.
Ideal for: Casual diners, families, and anyone needing a satisfying western-fusion meal on a budget.
Steer Clear if: You are trying to strictly stick to clean, oil-free health food.
Dining tip: Opt for their set lunch deals during the weekdays, which are slightly cheaper than ordering everything a la carte.
8. Suparakki Ramen – Affordable Japanese Comfort Food for Ramen Lovers
Price: $$
Suparakki Ramen is a hidden gem for those craving authentic Japanese ramen at wallet-friendly prices. Known for its rich, savoury broths and perfectly cooked noodles, this affordable restaurant offers a variety of ramen options that satisfy both your taste buds and your budget.
Whether you’re after the classic miso ramen or a spicy variant, Suparakki Ramen serves up delicious bowls filled with fresh ingredients, tender meats, and hearty eggs. It’s a perfect place for a casual dinner.
Ideal for: Ramen lovers seeking authentic Japanese flavours without overspending.
Steer Clear if: You prefer lighter meals or are not a fan of rich, hearty broths.
Dining tip: Try visiting during off-peak hours to avoid waiting in line and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.
How to Find Affordable Restaurants in Singapore That Serve Great Food
Dining out in Singapore can sometimes feel like a special occasion due to the city’s reputation for high prices. However, there is a rich selection of affordable restaurants that offer hearty, tasty dishes at reasonable prices. From hawker centres to cheap casual dining spots in Orchard Plaza and beyond, you can enjoy a variety of cuisines including Korean food, Italian pasta, and traditional local favourites like nasi lemak and chicken rice.
When choosing affordable restaurants, look for places with a diverse menu filled with signature dishes, fresh ingredients, and good service. Many of these restaurants provide great value meals with generous portions of meats, vegetables, noodles, and rice. Some even offer buffet options or set menus to maximize your money. Keep an eye out for spots on the fourth floor of shopping malls or tucked away in quieter neighbourhoods – these hidden gems often serve some of the best cheap food in Singapore.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Affordable Dining Without Compromise in Singapore
Singapore’s food scene offers an impressive array of affordable restaurants that deliver great food, generous portions, and a variety of cuisines to satisfy every craving. From the bustling hawker centres serving chicken rice and fried rice to casual diners offering pasta and fresh seafood, there are plenty of wallet-friendly options to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite on the fourth floor of a shopping mall, a hidden gem away from the crowds, or a family-friendly restaurant with hearty dishes, Singapore’s affordable restaurants prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious meals. So grab some friends, skip the minimum spend requirements, and dive into the vibrant culinary landscape that this country has to offer.
Happy eating!
