Singapore is often labeled as one of the most expensive cities in the world—but when it comes to food, that reputation doesn’t tell the full story. Thanks to its rich hawker culture, diverse cuisines, and strong food heritage, you can eat extremely well in Singapore without spending much at all. Whether you’re a student, traveler, or local trying to save money, affordable and delicious meals are everywhere.
Hawker Centres: The Heart of Cheap Eats
Hawker centres are the backbone of budget-friendly food in Singapore. These open-air food courts bring together dozens of stalls selling freshly cooked meals, often for under SGD $5–$6.
Popular and affordable dishes include:
- Chicken rice – One of Singapore’s national dishes, often costing around $3–$5
- Char kway teow – Stir-fried flat noodles with egg and soy sauce
- Laksa – Spicy coconut noodle soup
- Hokkien mee – Seafood noodles fried in rich stock
Famous hawker centres like Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex, and Old Airport Road offer some of the cheapest and tastiest meals in the city.
Coffeeshops and Kopitiams
Beyond hawker centres, neighborhood coffeeshops (also called kopitiams) are another great option. These are usually located under public housing blocks and serve everyday meals to residents.
You can easily find:
- Economic rice (cai fan) where you choose 2–3 dishes over rice for a low price
- Noodles, fried rice, and soups at affordable rates
- Drinks like kopi (coffee) or teh (tea) for just a dollar or two
These places may not look fancy, but the food is filling, comforting, and budget-friendly.
Cheap International Food
Singapore’s multicultural population means cheap food isn’t limited to local cuisine.
- Indian food: Dishes like prata, thosai, and vegetarian rice meals can be very affordable
- Malay food: Nasi lemak, mee rebus, and satay are often sold at reasonable prices
- Chinese food: Dumplings, roasted meats, and noodle soups are widely available
Because many stalls specialize in one dish, prices stay competitive and quality stays high.
Food Courts in Malls
Mall food courts are slightly more expensive than hawker centres but still affordable compared to restaurants. Many offer budget meal deals, especially during lunch hours.
They’re a good option if:
- You want air-conditioning
- You’re shopping or studying nearby
- You want more variety in one place
A full meal usually costs between SGD $6–$10, which is still reasonable for Singapore.
Convenience Stores and Bakeries
For very tight budgets, convenience stores and bakeries can help:
- Local bakeries sell buns, pastries, and sandwiches for low prices
- Convenience stores often have ready-to-eat meals and discounted items at night
While not ideal for every meal, they’re useful for quick, cheap bites.
Tips for Eating Cheap in Singapore
- Eat where locals eat—prices are usually lower
- Avoid tourist-heavy areas when possible
- Go for set meals or economic rice
- Drink water instead of expensive beverages
Final Thoughts
Cheap food in Singapore isn’t hard to find—you just need to know where to look. From hawker centres to neighborhood coffeeshops, the city offers some of the best value-for-money meals in the world. You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy amazing food, and that’s what makes Singapore truly special
