It’s a new year, and you’re trying to stick to your New Year resolution of eating clean. Sure, many of us are working on reducing our meat intake, but even for the most moderate of meat-eaters, there comes a time when we are overcome by an insatiable gnawing need to get our hands on a thick, juicy slab of steak. It’s one of life’s simplest pleasures, and one that many of us are unable (and unwilling) to give up.

However, dining at steakhouses can be an expensive affair, with limited portion sizes, substandard preparation, and unappetising steak cuts further compounding existing reluctance to placate said whims. Thankfully, there are still places in Singapore that serve good quality steaks without costing you an arm and a leg. You just need to know where to find them.

To alleviate that quandary, here is a list of 20 places to get affordable steaks for under S$30. Whether you’re looking for budget bulking options, or just want to luxuriate in some bargain steak binging, these places are bound to raise the steaks on a modern steakhouse experience!

Photo Credit: http://www.astons.com.sg/partners/bizen/

BIZEN OKAYAMA WAGYU STEAKHOUSE

Budget wagyu steaks? No, your eyes are not deceiving you; at BIZEN you’ll be able to enjoy Okayama wagyu cuts from the affordable price of S$18.90++, with all choices of Adventure Cuts available for under S$30++!

A brand concept from the Aston’s Group specialising in steaks, BIZEN’s ability to offer wagyu steaks at that low a price point stems from its exclusive partnership with Okayama cattle farmers. As cuts are limited, check which ones are available on their Facebook page before heading down to avoid disappointment.

107 North Bridge Road
Funan, #B2-22
Singapore 179105
Tel: +65 6970 0481
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/braseiro.sg/

BRASEIRO RESTAURANT

There’s a reason why this casual French steakhouse has been a recipient of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in both 2018 and 2019, and is constantly rated as one of the best steakhouses locally.

Redefining what affordable and palatable steaks mean, unlike in other establishments where you have to carefully scrutinise the myriad of cuts to determine which is of most value, Braseiro keeps things simple by having a set price of S$19.90++ for all its steaks. Even if you find the standard 200g cut too slight a portion, even their size L (S$24.90++) and XL portions (S$29.90++) are still within budget!

333 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427588
Tel: +65 9116 3304
Mon to Thu: 6pm – 11pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/buddyhoagiesdj/

BUDDY HOAGIES

Western and steak restaurants come and go, many edged out by stiff competition or squeezed by burgeoning overhead costs. Buddy Hoagies, on the other hand, has been around since 2004, surviving through the decades with the support of its regulars who appreciate its honest fare and modest prices.

To get an idea for how good a value you’re getting, from just S$13.90++, you can enjoy a cut of chilled New Zealand steak with your choice of two sides (get the onion rings – they are fried to a sweet, crispy goodness). Be warned, the lunch hour crowd is unforgiving, so go early or be prepared to wait!

5 Ang Mo Kio Central 2
Djisun Mall, #01-08/09
Singapore 569663
Tel: +65 6752 8722
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Yio Chu Kang
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: http://chargrillbar.com.sg/

CHAR-GRILL BAR

Proving that you do not need to go to a proper restaurant to get your protein fix, Char-Grill Bar’s longevity and multiple branches islandwide are testaments to how the population appreciates its immense fare (it has over 50 items!), fuss-free experience, and general affordability.

From as low as S$11.80, you can partake in a regular steak option with your choice of two of the eleven sides available. If one meagre slab of steak isn’t sufficient, why not top up to S$16.80 for a mixed grill option to really satisfy that meat craving instead?

25A Lorang Liput
Singapore 277735
Tel: +65 6463 4908
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30am
Nearest Station: Holland Village
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

COLLIN’S GRILL

A common choice for those looking for a mid-tier yet casual environment to dine with their friends and family at, Collin’s has captured this wanting crowd with its generous offerings made even more attractive by multiple ongoing promotions.

To substantiate your meal, why not get a Black Angus Steak cut starting from S$16++? For more customisability, head over to Collin’s Common Grill outlets where you can pick your protein of choice before mixing and matching it with your preferred carbs, sides, and sauces. And no, you don’t have to pay above their usual grill menu prices for this added convenience!

Block 51 Havelock Road
#01-06
Singapore 161051
Tel: +65 9739 1341
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/patsytan19/

GRILL WERKZ

One of the more renowned hawker centre grill houses, Grill Werkz has over 20 outlets islandwide that touts its enormous menu of quintessential American grill items. Perfect for meat lovers, all its budget-friendly steaks New Zealand cuts are available for under S$20.

If you’re looking for other types of protein besides beef, Grill Werkz is also famous for their Combo Mixed Grill (S$15.80) which comes with six different protein items, your choice of sides, wedges, and a sunny side up egg. For bigger tables who want a feast for both stomachs and eyes, subsist on the Ultimate Sharing Platter (S$16.80) instead.

28A Dover Crescent
7 Stars Coffeeshop, #01-92
Singapore 130028
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dover / One-North
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.hottomato.com.sg/

HOT TOMATO CAFÉ & GRILL

At Hot Tomato, you won’t be facing any vegetarian fare. It’s all hearty meat on fire action here, with a bonus of all their steaks being grass-fed beef cuts (from S$15.20++). What this entails is a more natural diet that reduces exposure to chemicals and toxins so that you can relish in your steak with a peace of mind.

If you visit their Funan outlet instead, you’ll be met with a menu that offers a special twist on the traditional surf and turf option: steak and sushi! For S$21.90++, you can revel in the robust flavours of the steak cut alongside refreshing pops of seafood from the chirashi for a unique taste experience unlike any other.

23 Serangoon Central
NEX Serangoon, #B1-47
Singapore 556083
Tel: +65 6753 4300
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest MRT: Serangoon
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/isteaksdiner/

ISTEAKS DINER

A brand synonymous with affordable steakhouse-quality cuts, iSTEAKS Diner has been gradually refining its menu to mimic the offerings of its more up-scale counterparts. While their prices have crept up over the years, this is partially offset by the consistent quality and sheer variety of cuts of beef available.

Identifiable by persistent snaking lines of eager diners during meal times, S$30 can get you any standard cut with your pick of two sides from their hefty list of twenty. To fully maximise your experience, bring along three of your best food buds to share the massive 1.2kg Wagyu D-Rump for just S$28.75++/pax!

Tampines Central 1
Tampines 1, #04-04/05
Singapore 529536
Tel: +65 6285 8839
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/meatnchill/

MEAT N’ CHILL

In line with its namesake, you can find this eatery packed to the brim with the bustling energy of friends and families alike especially during the weekends, big smiles and hurried chatter all-around within the bright and vibrant space.

What keeps this otherwise non-descript establishment busy is simple: considerable portions, amicable service, all served with an undertone of playfulness. When you next get their Flame-Grilled Steaks (250g) (from S$19++), skip the traditional sauces and turn up the fire with their Yolo Sauce. The team in the kitchen loves a challenge, and they appreciate customers who do so too.

805 Bukit Timah Road
6th Avenue Centre, #01-04
Singapore 279883
Tel: +65 8812 4455
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

Photo Credit: https://www.mediumrare.sg/

MEDIUMRARE BY SAVEUR

Easties might have seen MediumRare by the Saveur Group, drawn by its constant aroma of fresh grills and the modern chic space it offers. With multiple tables, even amidst the notorious Tampines lunch crowd, finding a seat will not require too extended a wait time.

With a good mix of economical (S$18++ and up) and premium cuts – their tenderloin is available for S$28++ – there is a suitable, scrumptious steak for all your dining needs at MediumRare.

Moreover, there is a Lunch Set promotion available between 12pm to 3pm daily where you can order your desired main – steak options include the ribeye (200g), striploin (200g) and flat iron (250g) – with a soup and drink for just S$16++!

2 Tampines Central 4
Century Square, #01-35
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6789 1121
Daily: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/M4MEAST/

MEET 4 MEAT

Want Wooloomooloo quality of steak without paying the prices? Now you can do precisely that at Meet 4 Meat, the brainchild of Chef Jimmy, who used to work at Wooloomooloo, and was the old Head Chef of Rabbit Carrot Guns.

Believing that gourmet food and accessibility need not be mutually exclusive, Chef Jimmy leverages on his twenty-plus years of experience to provide premium free-range and grass-fed beef cuts at prices a significant margin below his former workplaces. Must-tries include their famed Beef Wellington (S$27) and a generous cut of ribeye (S$23) for under S$30.

228 East Coast Road
Singapore 428925
Tel: +65 8290 3605 / 9877 6264
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 3.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/steakout.sg/

STEAKOUT

No need to steakout for a good steakhouse, we’ve got you covered! Want chilled Australian and New Zealand cuts for solidly under S$30? Tired of GST and service charge tipping your choice cuts beyond budget? Steakout promises all the above with a side of your alcohol of choice.

You know a place is dedicated to its role as a steakhouse when its core offering is a ribeye cut (S$21.90 to S$36.90), and its S$29.90 Love-Me Tenderloin (200g) is a close second. If you want to stretch that dollar just a little, you can even get a full 400g Porterhouse for just S$31.90; what a steal!

89 Victoria Street
Singapore 188017
Tel: +65 6720 8103
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

STEAKVILLE

Many times when we are looking for more economical food options, we forgo quality and freshness by settling for a mechanised supply chain that bypasses the authenticity and assurance that smaller farms provide. At Steakville, not only do you get a farm to table experience, you get to have it without breaking your bank.

The signature Hangar Steak here is priced at a fair S$20++, with all other cuts sans wagyu available for under S$30++. For something more opulent, why not add on sides like Raclette Cheese (S$8++) or a slice of Foie Gras (S$9++) to complete your meal?

91 Bencoolen Street
Sunshine Plaza, #01-56
Singapore 189652
Tel: +65 9233 5142
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/StirlingSteaks

STIRLING STEAKS

Stirling Steaks has been a mainstay for steak hunters in the East, popular for its traditional charcoal grilling technique that imparts a bold, smoky aftertaste reminiscent of more extravagant establishments.

While its cuts tend to be on the pricier side, there is a way to enjoy the unadulterated quality of Stirling’s steaks within budget – their value meal. At S$9.90++ you can get either a Flat Iron Steak or Hangar Steak (both 150g) with an addition of fries for S$1.50++. If the cuts are too scant a portion for you, doubling up only sets you back S$19.80++!

115 East Coast Road
Singapore 428804
Tel: +65 6958 0000 / 9788 2593
Mon to Wed: 6pm – 10pm
Thu to Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

THE ARMOURY CRAFT BEER BAR & STEAK HOUSE

Fans of burgers would be familiar with The Armoury, renowned for its juicy, thick-set wagyu beef patties grilled to mouth-watering perfection. But did you know that their steaks are just as, if not more delectable?

Transferring that grill expertise to full steak cuts, patrons looking can look forward to wagyu options from S$20++ and up. If having one slice isn’t sufficient, gather your pals and try their Steak Buffet (S$30++/pax) instead. Available only during weekends and public holidays, get your week’s fill of protein by wallowing in all the steaks you can eat during the 90-minute duration!

36 Beach Road
#01-01
Singapore 189766
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri: 11.30am – 1am
Sat: 11.30am – 12am
Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thecarvingboardsg/

THE CARVING BOARD GRILL

A recent trend in Singapore’s food scene has been the blurring of lines between hawker food and traditional restaurants and eateries. Born out of this convergence is the brand, The Carving Board, a grill specialist operating out of a coffeeshop under an unremarkable HDB block.

Despite the higher price point, customers who frequent the establishment do so because they appreciate the hand-smoked flavour and grain-fed cuts. For example, a 100-days grain-fed Angus ribeye will only set you back S$26 unlike the over S$50 range of full-fledge restaurants.

Jurong Street 24
Block 252, #01-107
Singapore 600252
Tel: +65 9789 8262
Tue to Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 3pm – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Chinese Garden

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thefeatherblade/

THE FEATHER BLADE

As per its moniker, The Feather Blade specialises in a specific undercut, the feather blade cut. Found on the shoulder blade of a cow, this cut derives its name from the nerve that runs through its centre, bisecting it like a feather. Although flat, this cut tends to offer an especially tender and sweet profile.

With The Feather Blade Steak (S$21++) being the only enduring menu item, it is the natural signature dish. Although sauces, sides and toppings are all part of the á la carte menu, the cut alone is delightfully smooth and pleasantly rich courtesy of its browned butter glaze.

61 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088482

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TMH18chefs/

THE MEATHÖUSE BY 18CHEFS

More than just a steakhouse, The MeatHöuse offers hope for ex-convict to get a new lease of life through picking up a scalable life skill. Helmed by the 18Chefs Group, since 2007, Chef Benny has been helping ex-offenders reintegrate back into society while offering toothsome food that’s a cut above the competition.

Catering to all strata of society, whether you’re looking to treat yourself at the end of the week – the Salisbury Steak starts at S$16++ – or celebrating a more momentous occasion – their gargantuan 550g T-Bone is set at S$52++ –  dining here means you’re supporting more than just tasty food; you’re giving the green light to those looking for a second chance too.

2 Tampines Central 5
Century Square, #05-04
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 6260 1752
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tampines

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/TheRoyalsSteakhouse/

THE ROYALS STEAKHOUSE

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because The ROYALS Steakhouse is part of Halal-friendly The ROYALS brand umbrella. Despite being overshadowed by the popularity of its café, the steakhouse has been carving out a name for itself, receiving nothing short of rave reviews by regulars and newcomers alike.

While most of their steaks err on the premium end, their set lunch offers a chance to sample their celebrated protein fare within budget. For S$22++, you can savour their Ribeye Steak (160g to 180g) alongside either a soup or salad starter and your preferred side. A fair price when considering the standard they’re upholding!

10 Jalan Pisang
Singapore 199077
Tel: +65 6291 3326
Mon, Wed & Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 12pm – 11pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Bugis

Photo Credit: https://www.burpple.com/@100425

UNO BEEF HOUSE

Do uno about this neighbourhood steakhouse that has been quietly serving sizzling steaks for multiple decades? One of the last bastions of old-school Western cuisine specialists that plate up genuine fare, Uno ensures each plate is made fresh to order,  and comes with a piping hot, tender, and moist steak comparable to its more up-market counterparts.

While pricey for hawker fare, regulars continue to stand by their stalwart favourites of Black Pepper Sirloin Steak (S$13) and Tenderloin – available for only S$18! – over the years. A friendly tip: as all cuts are served on hot plates, order a step under your preferred doneness to have the steak just right when it finally arrives.

51 Lorang 5 Toa Payoh
#01-60
Singapore 310051
Tel: +65 9003 3832
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 10.30pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Toa Payoh
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

You may be familiar with ribeye, tenderloin and sirloin, but have you heard of other relatively unknown cuts like skirt, flat iron and hanger steak? Here is a beginners guide to the different cuts of steak. Read on to find out which cut suits you best.

RIBEYE STEAK

The ribeye – also known as Scotch Fillet, Beauty Steak or Delmonico Steak – comes from the area near the rib, so it has good marbling with a nice amount of fat in the centre to give it the distinctive concentrated flavour. Suffice it to say, it is easy to understand why this is usually one of the top sellers in steakhouses.

TENDERLOIN STEAK

Tenderloin, or eye fillet, as it is known in certain parts of the world, is cut from the middle of a cow. As the muscle is less utilised, it is very lean and tender. Tenderloin is the crowd’s favourite because it is lean and does not contain too much fat. Also, it is a cut that is easy to cook and eat.

FILLET MIGNON

This cut is taken from the end of the tenderloin. It is extremely tender and has no fat as the muscle does not have to work. I am not a fan of Fillet Mignon as I prefer to have some fat in my steak. This cut, however, is perfect for
ladies.

SIRLOIN STEAK

Like the tenderloin, a sirloin steak is a cut from the loin section of a cow. While sirloin steaks are not as tender as the tenderloin steaks, they are popular as they are significantly less expensive than that from the short loin and rib section.

FLANK STEAK

The Flank is a beef steak cut from the underside of a cow. This part of the muscle is well-exercised, making it a naturally lean cut. Most people would probably be familiar with the flank steak as it is used for Fajitas and also as stir-fried beef in Asian cuisine.

T-BONE STEAK & PORTERHOUSE

The T-Bone steak, recognised by the distinctive T-shaped bone, is cut from the centre of the short loin and it comprises both the top loin and tenderloin. Porterhouse, on the other hand, is from the rear end of the short loin, thus has more of tenderloin steak. In general, they are expensive in steakhouses as they contain meat from two of the most prized cuts of beef. My favourite is the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, T-Bone steak prepared in Fiorentine style, an exceptional charcoal-grilled steak that is tasty and flavourful; it melts like butter in your mouth.

FLAT IRON STEAK

A relatively unknown cut, the Flat Iron Steak has been gaining popularity in recent years as restaurants start to offer this cut on the menu as a more affordable option. For instance, Prive Grill is serving a 200g Australian Flat Iron Steak for just S$38, while The Prime Society has a Black Angus Flat Iron for S$48.

HANGER STEAK

In an attempt to save on cost and to provide more variety, more restaurants are starting to offer alternative cuts instead of the more expensive cuts such as ribeye or strip. The hanger steak is one of them. It is inexpensive (usually you can get it for S$30), flavourful and rich. I have had several good hanger steaks recently. I would recommend going to Barracks Cafe, Osteria Mozza or Suprette at Kam Leng Hotel for their hanger steaks.

SKIRT STEAK

The skirt steak is a cow’s diaphragm muscle, located in the area just below the ribs on the cow. For what it lacks in tenderness, the skirt steak more than makes up for it with flavour. Most importantly, it is an inexpensive cut, and provides good value for money. The new Skirt at W Hotel Singapore serves the namesake Skirt Steak on its menu.