At times, we often find ourselves belabouring over how expensive our meals are in Singapore. This is partly due to the high price point already tagged to our meals, but the scary figure on the bill is only exacerbated by the addition of GST and service charge.

Sure, we understand the necessity of including service charge into our bills and there does not go a day when we are not grateful for the high standards of service we receive during our meals. This goes without saying that when service is exemplary, paying that extra money for service charge is worthwhile.

But there are those days when we long for just a cheap, affordable meal. And what if we told you that there are dining establishments in Singapore which offers you the same meals but without the addition of service charge?

Here are 24 Places In Singapore With No Service Charge. Yes, that means money for more food! You are very welcome. 

DRURY LANE

A quiet and quaint cafe tucked away in a shophouse along Tanjong Pagar Road, Drury Lane is a speciality coffee shop which has a laid back and chill atmosphere that is so perfect for those lazy afternoons.

Delicious baked goods, a good cup of coffee and no service charge? An afternoon at Drury Lane is definitely something to look forward to. Do also note that Drury Lane does not accept reservations and it is a walk-in only cafe.

Drury Lane
94 Tanjong Pagar Road,
Singapore 088515
Tel: +65 6222 6698
Mon to Fri: 8am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP

For hearty Thai, Western and North Indian cuisine at nett prices, Bar Bar Black Sheep will be your best bet. A bar in a casual yet relaxed coffee shop setting, this is where you should gather your friends or family for a good drink and comforting eats.

Bar Bar Black Sheep
501 Bukit Timah Road, #01-05C Cluny Court,
Singapore 259760
Tel: +65 6763 4757
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 1am
Sat: 12pm – 1am
Sun: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

FATBOY’S THE BURGER BAR

Known for their juicy and succulent burgers, Fatboy’s The Burger Bar is no stranger to Singapore’s burger scene and they also have several outlets across the island. Some speciality burgers you can pick up include The Yolo (S$19.80) and Fat Basterd (S$19.80).

To top it off, there is no service charge for your food at Fatboy’s The Burger Bar. More money saved to feed our ever rumbling bellies? We’ll take it.

Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
122 Pasir Panjang Road,
Singapore 118544
Tel: +65 6471 3224
Tue to Thu, Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Panjang

FLOCK CAFE

A family-run cafe situated nestled in the vibrant Tiong Bahru neighbourhood, Flock Cafe is an ideal place for some afternoon tea, away from the hustle and bustle of life.

All coffee is also brewed from beans roasted over at Liberty Coffee. So use those extra savings from no service charge for an extra cup of coffee goodness!

Flock Cafe
78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-25,
Singapore 162078
Tel: +65 6536 3938
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Based within the iconic Singapore Botanic Gardens, Food For Thought is a wonderful botanical-inspired restaurant with decent food at affordable prices with no service charge. This is a good place for brunch with the family and there is also a menu for toddlers.

Food For Thought
1 Cluny Road, #B1-00 Tanglin Gate,
Singapore 259569
Tel: +65 6338 4848
Mon to Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

FORTY HANDS

Another cafe with no service charge that you have to check out in the Tiong Bahru enclave of eateries and restaurants is Forty Hands. Located within a shophouse, you would often find this cafe crowded and teeming with people.

But if you do make it in, some brunch items you can try include the Smashed Avo On Toast and Eggs Benedict.

Forty Hands
78 Yong Siak Street, #01-12,
Singapore 163078
Tel: +65 6225 8545
Sun to Wed: 7.30am – 7pm
Thu to Sat: 7.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

HATTER STREET BAKEHOUSE & CAFE

A mad hatter-inspired cafe serving up innovative yet tasty treats, Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe is a hidden gem in Kovan that you can drop by for dessert after your meal.

Some items to try include the Paddlepop Cheesecake (S$6.50) and Whoaffles + Single Scoop (S$9). Also, did you know that you do not have to pay for service charge at this cafe?

Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe
Blk 212 Hougang Street 21, #01-333,
Singapore 530212
Tel: +65 6988 4591
Daily: 1pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

HUSTLE CO

The most recent addition to Craig Road’s bustling neighbourhood of chic cafes and fancy restaurants, Hustle Co is a new cafe that has 12 craft beers on tap. They also serve up comforting cafe fare and hearty dishes such as the Dirty Burger (S$19) and Blueberry Pancakes (S$18).

When it comes to their craft beers, we would highly recommend the Flat White Stout (S$9 per half pint) which is a rich dark stout infused with coffee flavours. Delightful food with no service charge? Sounds good to us.

Hustle Co
52 Craig Road,
Singapore 089690
Tel: +65 9826 3382
Tue to Sun: 9am – 12am
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

KRAZY SALAD BAR

Now, this is one eatery that you must know about. Sitting in the bustling neighbourhood of Toa Payoh is an under-the-radar eatery which offers a full menu of Western main course.

Krazy Salad Bar is a value-for-money main course + salad bar concept and you can get all of this for under S$20. Free-flow of main courses, salad and desserts; what is there to complain about? And to complete your dining experience, you will not have to pay for service charge here. So Krazy, indeed!

Krazy Salad Bar
Blk 190 Toa Payoh Lorong 6, #02-516 Toa Payoh Central,
Singapore 310190
Tel: +65 6254 7872
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Toa Payoh

LA PETITE CUISINE 

Established since 2006, La Petite Cuisine is a French restaurant in Singapore that serves affordable French food made from good quality and fresh produce. A casual restaurant where you do not have to pay for service, this is a good place to gather with your family for a simple, hearty meal.

La Petite Cuisine
10 Jalan Serene, #01-02 Serene Centre,
Singapore 258748
Tel: +65 6314 3173
Tue to Sun: 10am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

LOLA’S CAFE

Cosy, inviting and fuss-free are three words that sum up a meal at Lola’s Cafe. Aside from not having to pay any service charge, Lola’s Cafe is a great hangout spot for coffee and desserts. Now, that is truly the best combination a foodie can ever wish for.

Lola’s Cafe
5 & 7 Simon Road,
Singapore 545893
Tel: +65 6284 0349
Sun, Tue to Thu: 10am – 11.30pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 12am
Nearest Station: Kovan

NAMNAM NOODLE BAR

Founded on the belief that “Good food should be enjoyed by everyone”, NamNam Noodle Bar serves up honest yet tasty eats at affordable prices. As if that wasn’t enough, you do not have to pay for service charge if you dine at NamNam Noodle Bar.

Currently, the restaurant is offering value breakfast set meals available from 8am to 10am on weekdays. Yes, this means S$5.90 nett for any banh mi or S$6.90 nett for any pho (except the wagyu beef). Your food will also come with a drink.

NamNam Noodle Bar
252 North Bridge Road, #B1-46/47 Raffles City Shopping Centre,
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 6336 0500
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

NASSIM HILL BAKERY BISTRO BAR

Yes, this eatery is exactly as its name describes – a three-in-one concept which combines a bakery, bistro and bar into one. There is no service charge at this dining establishment which means you can afford to splurge a little more on the base cost of your meal!

Some exciting dishes that you should try include the Market Fresh Mussels With A Hint Of Chili (S$25) and the Chili Crab pasta (S$16/S$25).

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 3 miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Nassim Hill Bakery Bistro Bar
56 Tanglin Road, #01-03 Tanglin Post Office,
Singapore 247964
Tel: +65 6835 1128
Tue to Sat: 8am – 11pm
Sun: 8am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: Le Amis Group

PEPERONI PIZZERIA @ BIOPOLIS

Does pizza for lunch sound good to you? Visit Peperoni Pizzeria’s 6th outlet at Biopolis for a meal without any service charge or GST!

Aside from having cheap parking, being a peaceful dining environment and pet-friendly restaurant, lunch sets will cost you a mere S$14.90.

Peperoni Pizzeria @ Biopolis
10 Biopolis Road, #01-01 Chromos Block,
Singapore 138670
Tel: +65 6478 9091
Mon to Sun: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: one-north

PERCOLATE

For those who stay in the North of Singapore, Percolate is a popular coffee joint that serves up amazing fragrant coffees, pretty and satisfying desserts without charging you a penny for service.

A small, unpretentious space for you to enjoy a hot cuppa or two, this is one hidden gem in Bedok that all coffee fanatics need to know.

Percolate
136 Bedok North Avenue 3, #01-152,
Singapore 460136
Tel: +65 8259 0316
Mon, Wed to Fri: 10.30am – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

POPPY POPS

Sitting on the sixth floor of JEM is Poppy Pops, a popsicle cafe so secret that you probably would not chance about during a regular visit to JEM. But there is so much to love about Poppy Pops and it would be a waste if you did not take the time to drop by the cafe at least once in your life.

Yes, you get what you came for. Freshly-made popsicles and waffles accompanied by a pleasant view of the Jurong town landscape. And guess what, you do not have to pay for service charge here too!

Poppy Pops
52 Jurong Gateway Road, #06-03 JEM,
Singapore 608549
Tel: +65 6262 0339
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

REAL FOOD

Specialising in meatless food that is good for the body, Real Food at South Beach Avenue is a good place to turn to for a meal, especially when you wish to cleanse your body of the junk and harmful chemicals that you have put into it.

Some delights you can try include the Soy Curry Soup Noodles (S$12.80) and Baked Stuff Portobello Mushroom with Soy Cheese (S$11.80). And here is another incentive to begin your detox at Real Food—there is no service charge here!

Real Food
26 Beach Road, #B1-19,
Singapore 189768
Tel: +65 6384 2206
Mon to Sat: 10am – 9.30pm
Sun: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Photo Credit: Ronin

RONIN

Brunch with no service charge? The sound of that will surely put a smile on your face. At Ronin, indulge yourself in their rich and mouthwatering spread of brunch delights that include the Bircher Muesli (S$12) or even a Dirty Ronin (S$15). Then, pair it with a hot Genovese Coffee or their Signature Mocha and you would be set for the day.

Do note that payment at Ronin is only by cash or NETS.

Ronin
17 Hong Kong Street,
Singapore 059660
Daily: 8am – 6pm
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay / Raffles Place

SUMMER HILL

The latest addition to Sunset Way’s cluster of F&B outlets is Summer Hill, a casual French dining bistro that took over the premises of The Tiny Roaster.

Helmed by Chefs Anthony Yeoh and Christopher Soh who used to work for the now-defunct Cocotte at Wanderlust Hotel, you can expect a straightforward menu that focuses on home-style dishes and comforting recipes when you are dining there. Special items and sides are on a weekly rotational basis to keep things exciting so you always have an excuse to go back for more.

Summer Hill
106 Clementi Street 12
#01-62
Singapore 120106
Tel: +65 6251 5337
Daily: 11.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Clementi

SPRMRKT

Redefine your local supermarket experience at SPRMRKT’s flagship outlet at McCallum Street. This is where you can enjoy food, retail and art. Most importantly, no service charge is imposed on your bill when you dine at their bistro. Say yes to more savings and another resounding yes to more food in your belly! SPRMRKT 2 McCallum Street, Singapore 069043 Tel: +65 6221 2105 Mon to Fri: 8am – 9.30pm Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

STEAKOUT

When most think of comfort food, they would be inclined to think of desserts but really, what you need is a good ol’ thick, juicy slab of steak. Founded in 2011, Steakout is a humble grill and bar which serves up steak from Australia and New Zealand. Their steaks are also chilled and not frozen so as to preserve the freshness of the beef for their diners.

Steakout also does charge GST or service charge.

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

Photo Credit: The Living Cafe

THE LIVING CAFE

The Living Cafe is a cafe located along Bukit Timah Road that prides itself in offering healthy yet tasty food that is chock full of health benefits.

Their menu features a variety of fresh produce which includes soup, pasta, pizza and desserts; but all absent of preservatives, white sugar, cow dairy, red meat and artificial colourings.

You will not have to pay for service charge at The Living Cafe.

The Living Cafe
779 Bukit Timah Road,
Singapore 269758
Tel: +65 6468 4482
Mon to Thu: 11am – 7pm
Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat: 9am – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

TORIKI

If you love Japanese yakitori and craft beer, then Toriki is a joint you should definitely check out.

Situated on the 4th level of JCube, overlooking Singapore’s only Olympic ice rink, diners can look forward to authentic Japanese eats like assorted donburi and classic old school yakitori grilled over a special binchotan charcoal.

Toriki
Jurong East Central 1
#04-12 JCube
Singapore 609731
Tel: +65 8183 8121
Daily: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Jurong East

WHEELER’S YARD

If there is a themed cafe at a unique location, you know well that it would be a big hit with Singaporeans who are avid cafe-hoppers. A bicycle cafe nestled within an industrial warehouse in the Balestier area, Wheeler’s Yard is predominantly known for being a cafe filled with endless #OOTD spots, especially at their signature blue door!

Aside from the amazing decor, Wheeler’s Yard also serves up a mean breakfast, brunch and burgers and you do not have to pay for service charge. Yipee!

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 3 miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Wheeler’s Yard
28 Lorong Ampas,
Singapore 328781
Tel: +65 6254 9128
Mon, Wed to Thu: 10.30am – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 10.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Novena / Toa Payoh

Read: 27 Affordable Romantic Restaurants For Your Next Date.

Eating is an expensive hobby, and we all know the anguish of wanting a good meal but not having enough moolah to indulge. It is painful as much as it is frustrating. #FoodiesProblems

But you see, dining out need not be expensive if you know where to go. We have rounded up a list of 13 places in Singapore that serve budget main courses that are priced S$13 and below, and you know this is awesome news, right? No need to break the bank for a good and comforting meal, no need to pay an arm or a leg.

In this guide to budget eats under S$13, you will find a balanced mix of continental and international favourites from all over Singapore, so bookmark this page and it will save you on rainy days when your wallet has no ability to take any more beating.

#1 AH BONG’S ITALIAN – BASIL PESTO PASTA

Ah Bong’s Italian at Tiong Bahru changes their menu daily but recycles some popular picks. If you’re lucky enough that day and the Basil Pesto Pasta or a variation of it is on the menu, don’t hesitate to order it.

Doused evenly with rich pesto sauce, the overall pasta taste is taken up a notch with what we felt was a light addition of chicken broth and other seasonings – unveiling an extremely palatable taste. The pastas here are all prepared a la minute so the pastas are best eaten the minute it reaches your table. For just a mere S$7, we’re definitely coming back for more!

56 Eng Hoon Street
#01-46
Singapore 160056
Tel: +65 9650 6194
Daily: 10am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

#2 ARBITE – BANANA & CARAMEL PANCAKES

When in Serangoon Gardens, the cafe to go to is Arbite. This cafe started with humble beginnings some years ago, and today, it is a perennial favourite among residents and cafe-goers.

We like that the menu is not cluttered with the “typical cafe food”. What had us going back is the pancakes. For only S$12, you enjoy a stack of fluffy pancakes with banana, caramel sauce, sea salt, walnuts and vanilla ice-cream.

66A Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555962
Tel: +65 6287 0430
Mon to Fri: 11.30 am – 3.00 pm, 6.00pm – 10.30pm
Sat to Sun: 11.00 am – 10.30 pm
Nearest Station: Serangoon/Lorong Chuan

#3 EWF BY EVERYTHING WITH FRIES – HAR JEONG KAI BURGER

Prices at EwF are extremely budget-friendly, especially when the portions are more than substantial. A mouthwatering burger combo (inclusive of a burger, fries and beverage of your choice) starts from an affordable S$11.90.

The Har Jeong Kai Burger (S$8.90/ala-carte, S$11.90/meal) features a succulent prawn paste chicken leg sandwiched between two delicate handmade sesame buns, then topped with mayonnaise.

200 Victoria Street
#04-05, Bugis Junction
Singapore 188021
Tel: +65 6338 0135
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#4 GYOZA YA – MENTAIKO GYOZA & GARLIC RICE

Well-known for their inexpensive gyozas (Japanese meat dumplings) with convenient outlets in central Singapore, Gyoza Ya has upped the ante in the recent few months with variations of their pan-fried gyozas.

These selections include the Mentaiko Gyoza and the Cheese Gyoza (both S$7.80 for 5 pieces), which are best eaten with their individually portioned side of Garlic or Seafood rice (S$5.80 each) but we highly recommend sticking to the former as the garlic flavour is pleasantly poignant.

260 Orchard Road, Robinsons Orchard
The Heeren, B1-02A
Singapore 238855
Tel: +65 6737 5581
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

#5 HOB NOB CAFE BAR – FISH & CHIPS

Hob Nob is one of the several under-the-radar spots we love in Orchard Road. It is located on level three of Far East Shopping Mall – the one beside Wheelock, not the better-known Far East Plaza. The place is small, with only 8 tables that accommodate 25 people.

The food is simple, so don’t come here expecting fancy stuff. But if you want a decent meal in town without breaking the bank, Hob Nob might just become your new favourite place. Prices start from S$9.80 for a Fried Egg & Bacon Sandwich, to S$16.80 for Spaghetti Tom Yum Seafood. The Hob Nob Fish & Chips (S$11.80) is also worth a try.

Hob Nob is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s Top Budget Restaurants in Orchard Road.

#03-18/19, Far East Shopping Centre
545 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6734 0474
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#6 I WANT MY NOODLE – MY MUSHROOM NOODLE

I Want My Noodle is a local brand name that showcases their signature homemade springy egg noodles, served in a variety of different ways. We liked My Mushroom Noodle (S$7.90) for the inexpensive price tag and the overall taste of the noodles (dry is a better option) with their chilli sauce, served on the side.

There are other options such as the Double Roast Noodles which cost a little bit more but we can assure you that it is also worth the splurge. Only cash is accepted at this eatery so do make sure you have enough cash handy.

Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road
#03-14/15
Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 6235 2331
Daily: 10.45am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#7 NAKAJIMA SUISAN GRILLED FISH – SALMON TERIYAKI

Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish at Takashimaya’s Japanese food court remains one of our favourite places to go for a good and affordable meal in Singapore. The prices of the set meals — choose from Salmon Teriyaki ($12.50) and Shio Saba ($7.50) — are pocket-friendly, and the food never fails us.

391A Orchard Road Basement 2
Takashimaya Food Hall Ngee Ann City
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

#8 RAMEN KEISUKE – TONKOTSU RAMEN

Small and unassuming, this ramen joint does not look one bit attractive. And if you do not have a keen sense of smell, you might just walk right past it. That would mean you are missing out on a bowl of very authentic Japanese ramen.

Tonkotsu is our top choice always, simply because no other broths can be as gratifying as a rich, creamy and oily pork broth. The good news is, Ramen Keisuke does a pretty mean bowl and it is only S$10.80 with free flow of hard-boiled eggs and bean sprouts!

#01-19 Orchid Hotel
1 Tras Street
Tel: +65 6636 0855
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#9 SAVEUR – DUCK CONFIT

People love Saveur because it offers cheap and decent French food. There’s a trade-off, though. Portions are very small, so you have to order more dishes to share.

Having said that, it is probably impossible to find another place that serves a good duck confit at $10. So, if you are on a budget, check out Saveurs. Remember to go early, or be prepared to queue.

Read: Guide To 11 Duck Confits To Try In Singapore.

5 Purvis Street, #01-04
Singapore 188584
Tel: 6333 3121
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.15pm
Sun: 12pm – 2.15pm, 6pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#10 SPIZZA MERCATO – PIZZA

Spizza Mercato at Capitol Piazza has a super affordable menu and a wide variety of pizzas (but of course), and what it is exceptionally popular during lunch for its amazing weekday lunch deals – S$12 for a dry pasta with classic sauce or a 10 inch pizza, anyone?

13 Stamford Road #B2-52
Capitol Piazza
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6702 1835
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

#11 THE WICKED GARLIC – SQUID INK LINGUINE

Previously housed in a coffee shop, The Wicked Garlic’s tremendous success has led them to move over to the Central Business District in International Plaza. The Wicked Garlic offers a good range of pastas, pizzas and risottos but we loved their Ling Nero Di Seppia (Squid Ink Linguine, S$8.70) the most.

Each strand of pasta is coated evenly in the tasty squid ink sauce and you have a choice to add in extra items such as prawns and bacon to enhance your dish or to suit your liking. For just a mere S$8, we’re definitely not complaining.

10 Anson Road
#01-37, International Plaza
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 8509 2942
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 9pm
Sat: 11.30am – 8am
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#12 &SONS – GRILLED BEEF SIRLOIN STEAK

&SONS has lunch promotions every weekday that is just too good to resist. Their lunch menu items range from S$8 to S$12 and they feature a wide range of selections such as Pork Cheek Ragu Penne Pasta (S$9) and the ever popular Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak (S$12).

For a mere S$12, you get more than your money’s worth of a sirloin steak, cooked to your preferred doneness, a side of roasted potatoes & caramelised onions and salad. With an addition of S$2.50 – S$3, you can get yourself a cup of coffee or tea too.

Note: The main courses are only available for weekday lunch.

20 Cross Street
China Square Central, #01-19
Singapore 048422
Tel: +65 6221 3937
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 1am
Sat: 6pm – 2am
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer

#13 49 SEATS – CARBONARA PASTA

One of our favourite budget restaurants in Singapore, 49 Seats has gained a legion of supporters by keeping its fusion gourmet very affordable and accessible amidst the rising costs in this competitive industry.

While 49 Seats is known for its Tom Yum Pasta, the Carbonara (S$12.90), Beef Bolognaise (S$12.90), and Aglio Olio (S$10.90) are also worth trying. And best of all, there is no GST and service charge here.

49 Kreta Ayer Road
Singapore 089007
Mon to Thu: 6pm – 2am
Fri to Sat: 6pm – 5.30am
Tel: +65 6225 4332
Nearest Station: Outram Park

For more recommendations on where to eat, read our guide to 20 Inexpensive Restaurants in Singapore.

It is hard to resist a beautiful bowl of Chirashi-don that is filled to the brim with fresh, premium seafood. Apart from the fact that it is completely colourful and photogenic, a good bowl of chirashi-don does wonders for the soul with all the goodness in one serving.

Chirashi-dons come in many shapes and sizes. The most popular serving in Singapore is the classic chirashi-don, where big slices of sashimi are served atop vinegar-ed Japanese rice, and more often than not comes with a premium price tag. On days that we need our sashimi and rice fix without burning a hole in our wallets, we turn to ‘bara chirashi-don’, which typically refers to diced sashimi – sometimes marinated with mirin or soy sauce.

Thankfully, we have several affordable chirashi-don options in Singapore and most of the ones on this list are so affordable that we are not even kidding! Here is a guide to Chirashi-dons In Singapore That Are S$20 And Under.

#1 BABETTE

Served with plain Japanese Niigata rice, Babette’s Chirashi Donburi (S$19) first impressed us with the colourful assortment of sashimi, tamago and even mini carrot cubes that added a nice textural variety to the dish.

The sashimi blocks were marinated in a light soy dressing, so the donburi is good to eat on its own. Finished off with tobikko, Babette’s Chirashi Donburi was love at first sight, until the last bite.

165 Tyrwhitt Rd
Singapore 207569
Tel: +65 6341 7727
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 1am
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

#2 GINZA KUROSON

There are many restaurants along Robertson Quay, but most of them come with relatively higher price tags. If you are in the are during lunch hours, why not drop by Ginza Kuroson for some sweet deals? At S$20, you enjoy a serving of “fisherman’s bowl”. We do think this is a pretty darn value-for-money deal, because will you just look at the number of slices of sashimi, on top of a whole prawn?

Topped with ikura, the bowl’s variety may differ from day to day, but you will always be guaranteed a reasonable portion for S$20.

30 Robertson Quay
Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 6737 5547
Daily: 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

#3 HINOKI

Hinoki is known for their fresh sashimi, served in a semi-fine dining setting. A lesser known fact is that during lunch, they serve a chirashi-don for only S$16.80 in a set with salad and soup.

Besides just cubed sashimi, Hinoki also adds other ingredients such as pickled jellyfish. Upgrade your accompanying miso soup to a rich pork broth with tender pork slices for only S$1.50 to complete your meal.

22 Cross Street, #01-50/53
China Square Central
Singapore 048421
Tel: +65 6536 7746
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

#4 IKKI

If you live near Buona Vista or work around the area, make sure you make a trip down to IKKI Izakaya, just a stone’s throw away from the MRT Station. For just S$14, you get a half Barachirashi Don with a half bowl of Udon.

On the side, you get a serving of deep-fried salmon, salad and miso soup. For the extremely affordable price, we are definitely loving what IKKI has to offer.

9N Buona Vista Drive, #01-06/07
Singapore 138588
Tel: +65 8138 8578
Mon to Thu: 11am – 12am
Fri: 11pm – 2am
Sat: 6pm – 12pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

#5 KINSA SUSHI

Kinsa sushi has just introduced a special Purple Fusion menu which consists of 8 maki rolls, 1 sushi and 1 #ChirashiCupcake – all of which are prepared with purple rice. Just to clarify, there is no cake nor icing in the Chirashi Cupcake, and it is actually just a beautifully plated chirashi-don, using purple rice and freshly sliced sashimi.

The rice is dressed with a nice sesame ponzu sauce and sandwiched with some denbu (pink fish flakes) for an extra oomph to the dish. We loved how, in this dish, you could taste the distinct yet subtle nutty flavour of the purple rice, which reminded us of a classic local dessert, Pulut Hitam.

This is a great choice especially for lunch and it comes at an affordable price of only S$15.80 per bowl.

4 Hillview Rise
HillV2 #02-02
Singapore 667979
Tel: +65 67107278
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Fri, Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bukit Batok

#6 KOJI SUSHI

Tucked in China Square, along Nankin Row, Koji Sushi gets naturally packed with people during lunch hours. Most people would have a bowl of the Chirashi Don (S$17) on their table, and we can safely say its popularity is due to its friendly price tag.

The main plus point of this Chirashi Don is the dollop of fatty negitoro and use of Japanese ginger flower for a unique and fragrant touch.

3 Pickering Street
#01-42 Nankin Row
Singapore 048660
Tel: +65 +65 6225 6125
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

#7 SUMIYA

We dare say that this is the most value-for-money chirashi-don in Singapore. The Bara Kaisendon (S$18.80) is a lunch-exclusive item at Sumiya, Orchard Central and this beauty features extremely generous cubes of sashimi, crowning a bed of perfectly cooked sushi rice.

The sashimi cubes are dress in a Japanese sesame dressing and is mixed in with Ikura, Tobiko and avocado pieces. The set comes with salad, soup, chawanmushi and a dessert too – definitely an amazing deal you can’t find anywhere else.

181 Orchard Road
#12-02 Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6509 9618
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

#8 SUSHI AIRWAYS

Also another lunch exclusive, Sushi Airways’s Bara Chirashi Sushi Set (S$15) surprised us with how fresh the sashimi were. Avocado cubes were also mixed in here and we loved how it added a nice creamy texture to the dish.

The set comes with a side of soup and for just $15, it is definitely worthwhile. Sushi Airways has a whole list of other lunch donburi sets, but we say skip the rest and dive right into this beauty.

20A Baghdad Street
Singapore 199659
Tel: +65 6291 1151
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#9 TEPPEI SYOKUDO

The Teppei group has had their loyal fans since they first started, has ventured out into other concepts, and now, even a takeaway counter. A mainstay in all of their outlets is the Barachirashi Don or Kaisendon (S$16), as it is referred to at Teppei Syokudo.

The marinate on the sashimi is possibly one of the best you can find in Singapore and the thick cubes of sashimi feels more satisfying.

391 Orchard Road
#B2 Takashimaya Food Hall, Ngee Ann City
Singapore 238872
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

For more recommendations, read our guide to the best chirashi-don in Singapore.

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Concetto by Saveur is one of the ventures by the successful Saveur group, serving a range of Italian food instead of their usual French fare.

Concetto sports a chic and current industrial-style interior that screams minimalistic without being overly pretentious. With a simple and to-the-point menu, we saw countless of options from fresh pastas to heartier red meat options.

As Concetto’s menu has been newly revamped not long ago, we will be highlighting the new dishes on their menu instead. However, we did love the older version of the Concetto Pasta (S$4.90) with ikura and crab meat just a little more than their current version with squid and enoki.

A dish that stayed throughout since their opening last year is the ever popular Carbonara (S$12.90). This mouth-watering plate showcases a range of flavours and textures, from the homemade fettucine to the sous vide egg and confit confit pork belly.

The Beef Oyster Blade (S$16.90) is one to remember with incredibly tender meat from braising for 36 hours. We also liked the Kurobuta Pork Cheek (S$16.90) that is equally tender and served alongside chewy potato gnocchi and flavourful squid ink.

Concetto by Saveur is a great place in Orchard Road to venture to if you are feeling fancy but rather not burn a hole in your pocket!

Concetto by Saveur
2 Handy Road
Singapore 229233
Tel: +65 6735 1141
Daily: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s top 20 inexpensive restaurants.

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Step into a myriad of aromatic smells and a cornucopia of flavours with Bar Bar Black Sheep, a multi-concept bar and restaurant along Tanjong Katong Road.

Set in a coffee shop-like setting with a casual dining vibe, Bar Bar Black Sheep is the perfect place to watch your favourite sports and enjoy cheap beers and food, with no GST and service charge. And did we mention that weekday set lunches are available at S$11 Nett?

Moreover, you need not worry if your buddies are indecisive about what food to eat that day as you can have a variety of dishes from three different cuisine types – Thai, North Indian and Italian food! If you have a hankering for pizza but your friend insists on Phad Thai, settle your disagreement with a trip down to Bar Bar Black Sheep, conveniently located along Tanjong Katong Road.

Here are 10 dishes from Bar Bar Black Sheep at Tanjong Katong you must try!

#1 AGLIO OLIO MUSHROOM SPAGHETTI

Tossed in olive oil, chilli and garlic, we loved how Bar Bar Black Sheep’s Mushroom Aglio Olio (S$13) was simple yet delicious. The mushrooms added a nice touch to enhance the flavours of the pasta.

This is a good option if you’re a vegetarian or if you have a friend who’s one. Bar Bar Black Sheep also has a non-vegetarian version of this dish where they add tiger prawns into the mix – Chilli Prawn Spaghetti (S$15), perfect for seafood lovers.

#2 BUTTER CHICKEN

Butter Chicken has been a favourite among North Indian food lovers for the longest time. Bar Bar Black Sheep sets the bar high with their highly addictive Butter Chicken (S$11) curry that is best eaten with naan or white rice.

The intense burst of flavours will hit you the second you consume it and you will keep going for more! Bar Bar Black Sheep has a range of naan flavours from Garlic to even Cheese, so you can have a mix of different naan to dip into this wonderful curry.

#3 CRISPY BUFFALO WINGS

From the Italian/Western side, a must try starter or bar grub is none other than the classic Crispy Buffalo Wings (S$9). Besides just Buffalo Wings, Bar Bar Black Sheep also offers other selections such as Moroccan Wings and Chilli Lime Wings (both S$9 each).

From the classic Margherita, to Hawaiian, and local favourites such as Rendang Spicy Minced Beef Pizza, you can find a selection of 12 inch pizzas (S$14 to S$18) on the menu.

#4 FISH TIKKA

Of all of their grilled seafood and meats, we were pleasantly surprised by the Fish Tikka. Marinated with yogurt and spices and grilled, the fish inside remained tender and did not dry out.

However, the outer layer caught out attention with the crisp texture and the spirited burst of flavours from the spices used. A mint onion dip will be served on the side and we love how the sauce added more aggressive flavouring to the fish, which makes it a perfect pairing to white rice.

#5 GREEN CURRY

Thai curries can be a stark contrast from others such as local curries and Indian curries. What most people love about the Thai Green Curry (S$11.90) at Bar Bar Black Sheep is the aromatic smell of coconut milk, mixed in with spices and seasonings such as green chilli and fish sauce.

Choose between Chicken, Beef or Pork with your curry and have it drizzled all over a plate of rice for ultimate satisfaction.

x

#6 MANGO STICKY RICE

As the most popular Thai dessert Singaporeans love, we were glad to find out that the mango served at Bar Bar Black Sheep is deliciously sweet. Portioned nicely with the sticky rice, skip the hassle of messily portioning out the mango and rice yourself.

The Mango Sticky Rice (S$6.90) is a good choice to end off your meal on a sweet note. If you prefer puddings, the Mango Pudding with Nata De Coco (S$4.90) is the one for you!

#7 PHAD THAI

It is not easy to find a good plate of Phad Thai in Singapore but we thank our lucky stars that the Phad Thai (S$12.90) at Bar Bar Black Sheep is extremely delectable.

Choose between Chicken, Beef, Pork or Seafood (+S$1 for seafood) and taste the delicious wok hei of the noodles. The added lime offers a nice hint of zest, adding on to the multitude of flavours of this dish.

#8 STRIPLOIN STEAK

If you are up for a hearty meal of meats, look no further than the Western side’s selection of grilled meats. The Striploin Steak (S$19) can be cooked to your desired doneness and the steak itself is slathered in delicious black pepper sauce.

Each order comes with a side of mesclun salad and fries. If you prefer other cuts of beef, Bar Bar Black Sheep also has a Rib Eye Steak (S$19) that comes with the same sauces and sides!

#9 TANDOORI CHICKEN

It was hard to find fault with the Tandoori Chicken (S$22, whole) at Bar Bar Black Sheep as we were greeted with throng of mouth-watering flavours that left us wanting more. The tandoori grilled meats at Bar Bar Black Sheep is not surprisingly, one of the best-selling items there.

For a hearty meal, go right for the Tandoori Platter (S$20) which consists of prawn, fish and chicken tikka with either chicken or mutton kebab. All of these meats and seafood will go perfectly with a bowl of curry and white rice or naan.

#10 THAI SAUCE CHICKEN RICE

A large piece of chicken thigh deep-fried to a perfect ‘juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside’ doneness, served with a side of rice. The chicken is topped off with a tangy sweet and sour Thai sauce that adds a nice heat and flavour to the chicken.

The Thai Sauce Chicken Rice (S$14.90) is just one of the many other rice options you can pick from from the Thai food section. Other selections include Pattaya Fried Rice (S$12.90) and Olive Rice (S$13.90).

Brighten up your Mondays with some draught beer with a 1 for 1 promotion every Monday from 5pm to 7pm. From Monday to Thursday, get a bucket of 5 Corona or Somersby for only S$45.

Grab a bottle of your favourite hard liquors – XO, Johnny Walker Blue, Strathisla, Scapa or Longmorn at 30% off  until 9 August 2015.

Bar Bar Black Sheep
362 Tanjong Katong Road
Tel: +65 6348 8275
Mon to Fri: 11am – 12midnight
Sat & Sun: 11am – 1am
Website: www.bbbs.com.sg

This post is brought to you by Bar Bar Black Sheep.

Tucked away in a small corner of Tiong Bahru, it’s easy to walk past this gem of a stall at the Day & Night coffee shop along Eng Hoon Street. Ah Bong’s Italian shares the same space as a traditional Yong Tau Foo shop at the coffee shop, which transforms into a bar at night.

Packed with a steady crowd, it is no surprise that this humble stall has been gaining popularity ever since it opened as they churn out new surprises every day with no fixed menu. The prices of the pasta range from S$7 to S$10.

Ah Bong’s Italian’s rustic charm reflects perfectly on their dishes as they use traditional plates used way back then in coffee shops and features a straightforward menu with no more than five items daily.

A dish that we have recommended before but could not sing enough praises of is their Basil Pesto Pasta (S$7). First impressions were already a hit as the aroma of the herbs greets our senses with a bang. Upon further tasting of the pasta, we knew that this is one of the best pesto pastas we’ve ever eaten, with an even better price tag.

The Spaghetti Bolognese (S$8) may be a simple dish, but it packs a punch with a perfectly executed sauce that coats the al dente pasta evenly. Ah Bong’s Italian is indeed worth travelling for.

Ah Bong’s Italian
56 Eng Hoon Street
#01-46
Tel: +65 9650 6194
Daily: 10am – 2pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Dining out in Singapore can be very cheap, and it can be a costly affair too. Sure, you can do the budget way and have hawker food every day, but eating is also a form of social activity and there are many times that call for a proper meal at a proper outlet. And inevitably, that would mean spending more and S$3 for a plate of chicken rice no longer applies.

But we are fortunate enough to be in Singapore – the land of food. And the possibility of a pig flying is higher than you running out of dining options here. Dining out need not be expensive, really.

Amidst rising living costs and stagnant salaries, here’s sharing 20 Singapore Restaurants’ Dishes that are priced S$20 and under. Your bank account will thank us, but your jeans might not.

#1 ARTISTRY – BIG BREAKFAST

Brunch was never meant to be expensive, so we are happy that Artistry kept their classic Big Breakfast at an affordable S$15. While most places overcharge for this popular brunch favourite, head down to Artistry for some eggs and sausage goodness without burning a hole in your pocket!

17 Jalan Pinang
Tel: +65 6298 2420
Tue to Sat: 10am – 11.45pm
Sun: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

#2 BOUFE – EGGS BENEDICT

Eggs Benedict sounds so common, but we have to give it to Boufe for doing theirs really well. At S$16, it comes with a generous portion of homemade brioche with honey baked ham and perfectly poached eggs with a runny center, generously drizzled with creamy hollandaise sauce that is made in-house.

308 Tanglin Road
Phoenix Park
Tel: +65 6734 7656
Tue to Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard/Redhill

#3 CHIKUWA TEI – TENCHA SOBA

There are many reasons why we love Chikuwa Tei, and one of them is its Tencha Soba (S$14). When all you want is comforting Japanese food, a serving of cold, green ten soba noodles and tempura moriawase will do the trick. And Chikuwa Tei’s version never fails.

9 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-01
Tel: +65 6738 9395
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

#4 DANCING CRAB – POPCORN SHRIMP PO’ BOY SANDWICH

A cheaper alternative to lobster roll is Dancing Crab’s Popcorn Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich. Quite essentially a prawn roll, this item is no less satisfying. It is S$15 for a set of two rolls and lots of cajun fries – how does that sound? Value for money, right? We told you so.

The Grandstand #01-20/21
200 Turf Club Road
Tel: +65 6466 3303
Tue to Fri: 5pm – 10.30pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 11.30am – 3pm, 5pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

#5 DEPARTMENT OF CAFFEINE – LUNCH PLATE

For a fuss-free meal, Department of Caffeine has dishes from the counter which are prepared readily. A main course and regular salad is only S$15 – you get to choose between roast chicken and poached salmon for the main course; and for the salad, they have roasted beetroot, soba noodles or roasted cauliflower. Wholesome and freshly prepared in-house daily, this makes one of our all-time lunches.

Department of Caffeine
15 Duxton Road
Tel: +65 6223 3426
Mon to Fri (except Wed): 10.30am – 7pm
Sat & Sun: 9.30am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#6 FIVE & DIME – MENTAIKO PASTA

At S$18, this pasta at Five & Dime is a crowd’s favourite. Creamy, flavourful, and very filling. A huge portion of spaghetti that is generously covered in mentaiko sauce, this is for those who like a heavy lunch that packs a punch.

Five and Dime Eatery
297 River Valley Road
Tel: +65 9236 5002
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 10am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 12 midnight
Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

#7 FRESH FRUITS LAB – FISH & CHIPS

Fresh Fruits Lab prides itself on inculcating fresh fruits into their food and drinks! Well, as its name suggests, it is a heaven for all fruits lovers. Its Fish & Chips (S$19) is easily our favourite dish there. Beer battered pacific dory fried to a golden perfection, and the end result is skin so crispy, with beautiful sweet white flesh on the inside. The serving is very generous, and it comes complete with steakhouse frittes and homemade tartare.

351 Changi Road
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 10am – 11pm
Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos/Kembangan

#8 GINZAWA – KUROBUTA TSUKE SOBA

This may not be the cheapest soba in town, but it is nothing less than value-for-money. At S$20, the Kubobuta Tsuke Soba at Ginzawa, an underrated Japanese restaurant at Palais Renaissance, features icy cold buckwheat noodles served with thinly-sliced black pork and yuzu-perfumed dipping sauce.

Ginzawa
390 Orchard Road
Palais Renaissance #01-07
Tel: +65 6736 0100
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#9 HANWOORI KOREAN RESTAURANT – SPICY BEANCURD STEW

Located in the buzzing Serangoon Garden enclave, Hanwoori Korean Restaurant is one of those under-the-radar restaurants that only Korean food lovers in the know and residents will find their way here.

During lunch times on weekends, you will find several S$10 nett options such as Spicy Beancurd Stew and Kimchi Jjigae. The options are usually on rotation, and they come along with an impressive spread of banchan (side dishes).

76 Serangoon Garden Way
Tel: +65 6283 6339
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Serangoon

#10 HYDE & CO – TRUFFLE MAC & CHEESE

Instead of being drenched in cheeses, each macaroni is perfectly coated with just the right amount of cream cheese.

The aroma and taste of truffle oil in this plate sure kicked it up a notch for us. Baked with mushrooms and bread crumbs for added texture, Hyde & Co.’s Truffle Mac & Cheese (S$18) wins a nod from us.

785 North Bridge Rd
Singapore 198753
Tel: +65 6635 5785
Mon: 11am – 6pm
Wed – Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
Sun: 11am – 6pm
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Nearest Station: Lavender or Bugis

#11 JING HUA XIAO CHI – CHINESE PIZZA

Jing Hua Xiao Chi is a casual chic Chinese restaurant at Palais Renaissance that serves a concise and inexpensive menu, making it a good place for an intimate business lunch or a casual dinner date.

On its all-day menu, you have to zoom straight in to the Jing Hua Signatures. The Chinese Pizza (S$10.80) is flaky, savoury pastry with generous fillings of meat and vegetables – quite unlike your usual Chinese food, no?

390 Orchard Road
#B1-04/05 Palais Renaissance
Tel: +65 6733 8231
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#12 LITTLE DINER – NUTELLA FRENCH TOAST

Nutella, Nutella and more Nutella in Little Diner‘s version of stuffed French Toast (S$16.50) which is served during weekend brunch. At S$16.50, this is a notch above your usual French Toast. Thick brioche with a crunchy cereal crust, lavishly stuffed with everyone’s favourite hazelnut spread, topped with fried bananas and drenched with chocolate sauce. What’s a better word than ‘heavenly’?

789 Bukit Timah Road
Tel: +65 6466 4088
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village/Botanic Gardens

#13 NAKAJIMA SUISAN – SABA MIRIN SET

Do you always see a queue at the corner of Takashimaya’s food court? That is because Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish is there, and they have been around since we were students! We have loved their affordable sets since, and it is something that we always turn to when in doubt. The Saba Mirin Set is the most popular. At S$11.50 per set, it comes with a huge slab of saba, a side salad, rice and miso soup.

391A Orchard Road Basement 2
Takashimaya Food Hall Ngee Ann City

#14 PINT & CURRIES – CHICKEN VINDALOO WITH CHEESE & GARLIC NAAN

Nestled in the heart of Clarke Quay, Pint & Curries offers an affordable supper menu of North-Indian curries and well-loved crafted beers. Our favourite is the Chicken Vindaloo (S$12). The boneless chicken in the spicy gravy is exceptionally sweet and succulent, and you have to eat it with the Cheese & Garlic Naan (S$4.50) that is fresh and fluffy from the oven.

#01-14, Clarke Quay
3D River Valley Road
Tel: +65 6337 4616
Daily: 7pm – 4am
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

#15 POULET – POULET ROTI WITH MUSHROOM CHARDONNAY SAUCE

This is a perennial favourite, we know. It is ours too. Nothing a simple roast chicken dish can’t do, right? The queues at every outlet are the best testaments to the brand’s popularity, and any time is a good time for a Poulet Roti with Mushroom Chardonnay Sauce (S$15.90 for half chicken).

HarbourFront Walk
#01-175/176/177
Tel: +65 6376 9087
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

#17 SUNDAY MARKET – SIRLOIN RENDANG TOAST

Sunday Market is a quirky space with brick walls in the prettiest hues of rust, spotting irregular display of paintings sporadic plant arrangements, and filled with chitters from a hipster crowd. A Rendang Toast is what you’d least expect for brunch, but the Straits-style item is a delightful twist to the usual toast. At S$15.90, this is a non-mainstream cafe item to try!

Sunday Market
22 Lim Tua Tow Road
Mon to Fri: 1am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Serangoon

#18 THE REFINERY – PULLED PORK RICE BOWL

The newest addition to Jalan Besar neighbourhood is The Refinery, a 3-storey space housed within a industrial building at King George’s Avenue. The concept includes a restaurant on the ground level, a bespoke cocktail bar on the second level, as well as a workspace area on the third level.

On the lunch and brunch menus, you can find several creative dishes such as Gyuniku Donburi (S$14), Pulled Pork Rice Bowl (S$10), and Spicy Pulled Pork Mee (S$12). Most of the items are affordably priced under S$16.

115 King George’s Ave
Tel: +65 6293 0461
Tue to Sun: 6pm – 12am
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Lavender

#19 TOLIDO’S ESPRESSO NOOK CAFE – ROSTI

Sitting in the heart of Crawford, just 5 minutes away from Bugis and Haji Lane, Tolido’s Espresso Nook has its series of specialty brews that come with photo-worthy latte art. And what we totally dig is their rosti. Tolido’s do a really mean rendition! Served with an egg, the Rosti comes in various combinations – with cheesy sausage (S$14.90), smoked Bratswurst (S$16.90) and smoked salmon (S$20.90).

Block 462 Crawford Lane #01-63
Tel: +65 6648 0178
Tue to Thu: 9.30am – 7pm
Fri & Sat: 9.30am – 10pm
Sun: 9am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

#20 XIN CUISINE – DIM SUM

Dim Sum is another reason why you should head to Xin Cuisine. Most of the dim sum are reasonably priced at S$4.50 per basket. The dim sum menu is available daily, and on Sundays and Public Holidays, the menu features additional items.

The classic offerings – including Siew Mai, Xiaolongbao, Har Gau – are all nicely executed, but if you are there for yum cha with your family on Sundays, you can look forward to other noteworthy creations that include Steamed Melon Ring with Shrimp, Pork Paste in Abalone Sauce (S$4.50 for 3 pcs), Steamed Cuttlefish with Spicy Sauce (S$4.50), Baked Chocolate and Custard Bun ($ 6.00 for 3 pcs) and Deep-fried Bacon and Crab Claw with Salad Sauce ($9.00 for 3 pcs).

#04-00 Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium
317 Outram Road
Tel: +65 6731 7173
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 10.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Outram

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s Top 20 Inexpensive Restaurants.

Established since 2007, Bar Bar Black Sheep (BBBS) is our favourite bistro-with-a-coffee-shop-setting when we need an affordable yet hearty meal. For the uninitiated, it has a coffee shop setting because there are multiple kitchens whipping up cuisines of different sorts. But the convenience is having a combined menu and single payment.

The new branch at Holland Village – its 5th outlet – might just become our favourite one yet, because it is with a Japanese twist and is more like an izakaya; think a line-up of Japanese fare and a wide selection of sake and beers. That’s comfort level 100% – for both our tastebuds and wallet.

Staying true to Bar Bar Black Sheep’s philosophy of serving affordable comfort food in a casual and chill-out setting, every dish on the Japanese izakaya menu is well priced under S$15. It is fuss-free, and the prices are unbelievably affordable, you’d do a double take and wonder if you were really at a bistro or a coffee shop!

And, guess what? Set lunches are only S$10 nett! Every reason to make a trip down to Bar Bar Black Sheep at Holland Village. If you need some recommendations on what to order, we will share them with you in just a bit!

So, let’s recap how Bar Bar Black Sheep’s concept works – you pick whatever you want from the extensive menu, both drinks and food, and the various kitchens will prep your orders, and you pay for them in a single bill upon leaving. Even if you go with a bunch of friends who all have a taste for different cuisines, orders can be placed together and payment can be made together too.

The usual Bar Bar Black Sheep has Northern Indian, Thai and Western kitchens. But at the all-new Holland Village outlet, expect a large Japanese menu of comfort snacks and main courses. That is on top of its Northern Indian Cuisine and Western cuisine, of course. You will be spoilt with drinks choices too, but that is for later part of our story.

BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP JAPANESE IZAKAYA

Let us first share with you some of our favourites from the new Japanese menu. First up is the Teriyaki Chicken (S$7.90) – a unanimous decision among us for its succulent chicken thigh with sweet teriyaki sauce. Nothing fanciful about this dish. In fact, it is not even photogenic! But we assure you it is one item you must try.

There are other teriyaki items that are splendid for sharing too, and if you love scallops as much as we do, go for the Scallop Teriyaki (S$10.90) – plump, juicy treasure of the sea, stir-fried with signature teriyaki sauce, onions and shiitake mushrooms.

Then, there is the donburi section. A good donburi is one that is filling and comforting. No frills too; just a simple bowl of rice and your preferred meat. Among the many options, we liked the Unagi Don. At only S$13.90, it is unbelievably affordable and you get a decent serving of grilled eel atop premium Japanese rice and pickles. We often gripe about the lack of affordable unajyu in Singapore, but Bar Bar, thank you for hearing our cries! We will be back for this!

Other dons that are worth ordering are Ribeye Beef Don (S$12.90), Omurice (S$10.90) and Curry Katsu Don (S$11.90). Aren’t they all so astoundingly affordable?

Over on the yakitori column, we got so excited because, what is there to not love about Japanese skewers? They make great beer snacks, too. Of all the sticks, we loved the Mentai Scallop (S$6.90) best. Other classic skewers include the Pork Belly + Leek (S$4.90), Shiitake Mushrooms (S$4.90) and Ishiyaki Beef (S$7.90). All prices stated are for a serving of two sticks.

BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP INDIAN & EUROPEAN KITCHENS

As mentioned, Bar Bar Black Sheep at Holland Village also has the usual European and Northern Indian kitchens. Oh, how can we miss the Butter Chicken (S$12)? A stellar signature all these years, a serving of Butter Chicken is marvelous with naans of your choice – prices range from S$2.40 to S$6. But of course, we’d grab beer with our chicken too. Now, we just need Real Madrid to score that goal and our nights would be perfect.

Or would you prefer to spend your night with burgers? Hanging out with the bros mean you need badass burgers and beers, and sure, Bar Bar Black Sheep has a list of gourmet burgers. The bestseller is the Sautéed Mushroom + Bacon Cheeseburger that is served with a sunny side-up egg and fries and coleslaw. At S$16.90, this is bang for your buck.

Other Western dishes that are exclusive to the Holland Village outlet are the Seafood Pizza (S$12.90), Crispy Duck Confit (S$24.90), Scandi Salmon (S$19.90) and Squid Ink Pasta with Tiger Prawns (S$14.90).

BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP S$10 (NETT) WEEKDAY SET LUNCH

If you pop by Bar Bar Black Sheep at Holland Village during lunch hours, you will be in for great deals. At S$10nett, the lunch sets are absolute value for money. Unpretentious food with a delighting price tag; this is life’s simple pleasure.

All three kitchens have something to offer for lunch, and the options include Enchiladas, Aglio Olio, Tuna Melt Sandwich, Curry Chicken Don, Grilled Yakitori Don with three skewers, Pork Katsu Soba. There is also a vegetarian set – the Vegetarian Rice with Paneer Aloo Gobi.

BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP DRINKS PROMOTION + LIVE BAND

All you beer drinkers, listen up. The Bar Bar Black Sheep outlet at Holland Village offers Asahi Dry and Asahi Black beers on tap. More booze options include a selection of Japanese single malt whiskies, sakes and shochus.

The happiest hours are on Mondays from 5:30pm to 8pm. It is S$5 Beer Night, and it is valid on all draft by glass. Then, there is the S$39 Bucket Specials of any four bottled beers (except HobGoblin, GreenGoblin Cider, Weston Organic and Vintage Ciders). Oh Jesus, as if Monday needs any more validation for drinking!

On Tuesdays from 5.30pm to 8pm, the Japanese night at Bar Bar Black Sheep Holland Village offers 1-for-1 on sparkling sakes, umeshu, and Japanese single malts – prices start from S$10 nett! All promotional prices quoted are nett, so there is no GST and further service charges applied.

Bar Bar Black Sheep Holland Village Outlet’s resident live band, Dynamic Wanderers will also be performing their favourite acoustic hits daily from Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7.30pm onwards.

Bar Bar Black Sheep
17D Lorong Liput
Holland Village
Tel: +65 6463 2161
Nearest Station: Holland Village

This post is brought to you by Bar Bar Black Sheep.

If there was only one kind of cuisine that we could live on, it would be Japanese food. There is no one reason why; if we really have to, the list will never end.

You see, there will always be something to love. Sashimi, sushi, ramen, tonkatsu… whatever you have a taste for, Japanese cuisine will answer that. And a Japanese meal need not necessarily burn a hole in your pocket. While it is true that the premium quality ingredients come with a hefty price tags, sometimes, all we really want is a quick and fast Japanese meal in between meetings, or to simply lift our moods, yes?

Yes, we hear you and we feel you. Here, we share with you our favourite haunts when we need an affordable fix. Enjoy our list of 15 Value-For-Money Japanese Restaurants in Singapore and eat to your heart’s content! Itadakimasu.

#1 AKASHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Among the many mid-tier Japanese outlets in Singapore, we love Akashi for its consistency. The menu is neatly categorised, and whether you are looking for sushi, sashimi or teishoku, there will be something to please. Or you can sit by the sushi counter and do an omakase meal while interacting with the chefs to understand more about what goes on your plate.

290 Orchard Road
#B1-01 Paragon
Tel: +65 6735 8887
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#2 BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP HOLLAND VILLAGE

The usual Bar Bar Black Sheep has Northern Indian, Thai and Western kitchens. But at the all-new Holland Village outlet, expect a large Japanese menu of comfort snacks and main courses.

Staying true to Bar Bar Black Sheep’s philosophy of serving affordable comfort food in a casual and chill-out setting, every dish on the Japanese izakaya menu is well priced under S$15. It is fuss-free, and the prices are unbelievably affordable, you’d do a double take and wonder if you were really at a bistro or a coffee shop!

17D Lorong Liput
Holland Village
Tel: +65 6463 2161
Nearest Station: Holland Village

#3 CHIKUWA TEI

This is our all-time favourite. We LOVE Chikuwa Tei at Mohamed Sultan Road for their chirashi-don. So good that we have to use Chikuwa Tei’s Chirashi Sushi Set (S$25) as the benchmark for a good sushi rice bowl. Parking around that area may be a challenge, but we always find ourselves returning to Chikuwa Tei. Apart from chirashi-don, they have many other value-for-money sets like the Saba Teishoku (S$14), Sukiyaki Teishoku (S$24) and Tencha Soba (S$14).

Chikuwa Tei’s chirashi sushi is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s Best Chirashi-don.

9 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-01
Tel: +65 6738 9395
Daily: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

#4 GINZA BAIRIN

Tonkatsu – or deep fried breaded pork – is not a cheap dish to begin with. And of course, the bigger the price tag, the more premium quality you get. If you are not too fussy and you just want a simple and comforting tonkatsu option, stop by Ginza Bairin at Ion Orchard. Sitting within the food hall at Basement Four, this casual outlet has pretty decent tonkatsu with most options not costing more than S$20.

2 Orchard Turn
#B4-39/40/41/42 ION Orchard
Tel: +65 6509 8101
Daily: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#5 ITACHO SUSHI

Salmon skin sushi for S$0.40 – everyone will know Itacho Sushi because of this. And more than that, they are a favourite because of the wide variety of sushi creations at very friendly prices. When dining at Itacho, treat yourself to a selection of makis, rolls and nigiris made with fresh ingredients. They have very value-for-money lunch sets, too.

Itacho Sushi is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s Affordable Sushi Restaurants.

#03-03/31 Changi Airport Terminal 3
65 Airport Boulevard
Tel: +65 6241 8911
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Changi

#6 KINSA SUSHI

Nestled in the quaint HillV2, Kinsa Sushi is made for the heartlanders and all who love a simple Japanese meal. Prices are not at all intimidating to say the least, and the menu is well-covered with the usual Nippon favourites prepared with premium ingredients. Dishes that we love include the premium Wagyu Don at only S$24.80, Grilled Prawn Mentai (S$9.80), Kinsa Roll (S$14.80) and Tempura Bento Set Lunch (S$11.80).

It is not every day that we need to sit down for a lavish and aristocratic Japanese meal, because more often than not, what we seek is comfort food that will not have our wallets take a beating. A recent lunch at Kinsa Sushi fits this bill exactly, and we are so adding this to our list of all-time favourite inexpensive Japanese eats.

4 Hillview Rise
HillV2 #02-02
Tel: +65 67107278
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Fri, Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 10pm

#7 KOH SUSHI GRILL & BAR

This place needs no further introduction, right? Koh Grill & Sushi Bar is a small eatery that sits within Wisma’s Food Republic, and they serve honest Japanese food at affordable prices. And the one dish that makes everyone go back again and again is the Shiok Maki. This is surely one place to head to for a quick fix of Japanese food in between shopping at Orchard Road. Be prepared to queue though; an hour’s wait is the norm.

Koh Sushi Grill & Bar is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s Affordable Sushi Restaurants.

435 Orchard Road
#04-21 Wisma Atria Shopping Centre
Tel: +65 9180 3805
Daily: 11.30am – 10.30pm

#8 MARUTAMA RAMEN

We do not usually fancy chicken broth for our ramen, but Marutama is an exception. Deserving exception, surely. For so many years, they have been serving diners nothing but the tastiest chicken broth ramen. At S$12 per bowl for the default ramen, you get a hearty serving of springy noodles with a few slices of chashu. There is also a spicy option at S$12 too.

Marutama Ramen is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best ramen.

#03-90 The Central
8 Eu Tong Sen Street
Tel: +65 6534 8090
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

#9 MIHARU SAPPORO RAMEN

The first few brands that we fell in love with when the ramen trend hit Singapore was Miharu Sapporo Ramen. The new outlet at Millenia Walk is slightly bigger and very comfortable, while your favourite ramen with the famous Nishiyama noodles specially imported from Japan, and rich miso broth is still flavourful as always. Our favourite ramen is most definitely the Tokusen Miso Ramen with a special miso blend (S$14.80++).

Miharu Sapporo Ramen is also listed in our guide to 7 affordable Japanese restaurants at Millenia Walk.

Millenia Walk #01-06
9 Raffles Boulevard
Tel: +65 6733 8464
Daily: 12.00pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall/Promenade

#10 RAMEN KEISUKE TONKOTSU KING

A good bowl of tonkotsu ramen is all we need sometimes. Keisuke is a fuss-free outlet that we turn to when the craving kicks in. There are various combinations for you to pick from – black, spicy and original – and they are all built on their famed tonkotsu broth. Rich, creamy and very porky; just the way we like our ramen broth to be. The ramen ranges from S$10.80 to S$15.80 per bowl.

Ramen Keisuke Tonkotsu King is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s best ramen.

#01-19 Orchid Hotel
1 Tras Street
Tel: +65 6636 0855
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

#11 RAKUICHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Rakuichi Japanese Restaurant has been around for a few years, and its much-lauded aburi sushi deserves a special mention. The Tokubetsu Set (S$28.60) – includes a salad, an assortment of 6-piece aburi sushi, stir-fried fish head with teriyaki sauce, seafood & vegetable tempura, miso soup, and sesame ice cream – is extremely value-for-money. There are also cheaper lunch sets like saba shioyaki, shake teriyaki and katsu don at S$18.60.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn 3 miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

10 Dempsey Rd
Singapore 247700
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#12 SYUN

An upmarket fine dining establishment by a celebrity chef usually comes along with hefty price tags, but we were pleasantly surprised by how affordable Syun’s set lunches actually are.

While prices are considerably higher than the other restaurants (mentioned in this guide), it is actually reasonable for the quality that you’ll get. The Sashimi Set Lunch (S$28) comes with three kinds of sashimi, as well as rice, miso soup, chawanmushi and a salad. Our favourite is the Bara Chirashi Sushi Jyu (S$32) - generous chunks of sweet sashimi and ikura atop plump Japanese rice drizzled with a ginger-like sauce.

Festive Walk, Resorts World Sentosa
8 Sentosa Gateway
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Tel: +65 6577 6688
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

#13 TEPPEI SYOKUDO

Teppei first rose to fame with its super value-for-money chirashi-don at its nondescript outlet in Tanjong Pagar. Over at Millenia Walk, Teppei Syokudo is a hassle-free outlet where you can choose to eat in the outlet or takeaway your favourite sashimi rice bowl, and it is simply perfect for days when you need to pack lunch back to the office. Everyone’s favourite Kaisen-don is at S$16 for a serving, and if you do not want raw fish, sure, there is the Katsu-don (S$15.80) and Saba Miso Bento (S$12.80).

Teppei Syokudo is also listed in our guide to 7 affordable Japanese restaurants at Millenia Walk.

Millenia Walk #01-105
9 Raffles Boulevard
Tel: +65 6238 1945
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: City Hall/Promenade

#14 THE SUSHI BAR

The Sushi Bar at level four of Far East Plaza serves the standard dishes like sushi, sahimi, Japanese-style pastas and donburis, but if you only have room for one dish, you must try the much-lauded Salmon Aburi Sushi (S$14.50). It is one of the best rolls we’ve ever tasted, and you will see that every diner orders this when at The Sushi Bar.

The Sushi Bar’s chirashi don is also listed in our guide to Singapore’s Best Chirashi-don.

#04-28 Far East Plaza
14 Scotts Road
Mon to Fri: 12.30pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Sat: 12.30pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

#15 YAYOIKEN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Of course, Yayoiken does not have the most incredible tastes, but its casualness and fuss-free setting is satisfying enough when we need a simple Japanese food fix, and the prices won’t have your wallet take a beating. Set lunches are mostly around S$10, just so you know. The next time you need an inexpensive lunch when you are at Orchard Road, this will be your answer.

313 Orchard Road
313@somerset #B3-33/34
Tel: +65 6884 7550
Sun to Thu: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s best Japanese restaurants.

“Always tasty, always homemade. With love.”

That’s Little Diner for you.

The humble eatery that sits amidst the lush greenery of Bukit Timah, away from the humdrum of city life and stress – cosy and unpretentious. It is a no-frills place; just earnest comfort food in generous portions. Lunch, dinner, weekend brunch… whenever you need to please that tummy of yours, Little Diner will take care of that.

Nothing here costs an arm and a leg – most of the dishes on the menu are reasonably priced below S$20 – and all that we’ve sampled and had were delightfully yummy to say the least. Some classics are as good as gold, some creations took us by surprise and left us lingering for more. Little Diner has also just launched its new 2-course weekday set lunch at S$22.50++.

Today, we share 10 Must-Try Dishes at Little Diner and we urge you to drop by for a meal that you will not have regrets for.

There are three various “feeding times”, and the menu differ for each.

Lunch hours on weekdays (11:30am to 3pm, Tuesdays to Fridays) call for value-for-money 2-course set lunches at S$22.50++, including one coffee or tea. Portions are of the original size no less, and there are several starters and main courses to pick from, of which we will be sharing some of our favourites in this list.

We’d love to think of the set lunches as casual affordable options when we want to avoid the lunch crowd in town and major restaurants. From now till 31 May 2015, quote “ladyironchef” and get a free dessert of the day with every set lunch ordered.

Then, there is a comprehensive menu when it comes to dinner. We promise you’ll be so spoilt for choice, but more than that, we’d love for you to spend your night with great comfort food and drinks. It is like dining at a home outside of your home.

Weekend brunches are not confined to cafes. A local eatery off the beaten track sounds lovely too, yes? Especially so when they’ve got some really impressive items. Trust us on this – you’ll be hooked to the first dish that we are going to share.

#1 STUFFED SUPER CEREAL-CRUSTED FRENCH TOAST (BRUNCH ONLY)

Nutella, Nutella and more Nutella in Little Diner‘s version of stuffed French Toast which is served during weekend brunch. At S$16.50, this is a notch above your usual French Toast. Thick brioche with a crunchy cereal crust, lavishly stuffed with everyone’s favourite hazelnut spread, topped with fried bananas and drenched with chocolate sauce. What’s a better word than ‘heavenly’?

Now, you’d be pretty darn sure you need this for your weekend.

#2 ROSARIO’S FRIED RISOTTO BALLS (LUNCH AND DINNER ONLY)

With a melty mozzarella center, tomato coulis, basil pesto and parmesan cheese, the Rosario’s Fried Risotto Balls (S$9.50) is a rustic appetiser that is good for sharing, but we’d prefer to have them to ourselves. It might sound foreign, but they are really just crispy balls with a warm filling of cheesy rice grains, tangy tomato and herbs. 

For weekday set lunches, this option is also included as a starter, and it is certainly our favourite thing to order.

#3 CROQUE MADAME (BRUNCH ONLY)

Pretty much like your ham and cheese sandwich, except that Little Diner’s Croque Madame (S$14.50) – only on weekend brunch hours – is like a gigantic deconstructed version.

What seemed like a messy pile actually turned out to be a delightful surprise of toasted brioche, a thick slice of ham and lots of melted cheese, with a copious amount of truffle scented bechamel sauce. Topped with a gorgeous fried egg and some greens, the Croque Madame was wolfed down by our party within minutes.

#4 VERSION 2.0 BAKED MAC & CHEESE ROYALE

Damn, this is one hell of a Mac & Cheese! We are always lamenting about the lack of a good mac & cheese in Singapore, but no more complaints – we’ve found the best. The Version 2.0 Baked Mac & Cheese Royale (S$20.50) is a divine portion that comes with wild enoki and shimeji mushrooms, complete with truffle oil. Let’s just say the fragrance is unparalleled, and unlike most overly cheesy and sick mac & cheese, this rendition is lighter and works as a main on its own.

Not a fan of truffle? Sure. Go for the Old School Baked Mac & Cheese (S$16.50).

#5 THE XXX BACONATOR

Every man needs a badass burger. It is food for the soul! The XXX Baconator (S$21.50) is a fascinating tower of thick and juicy beef patty, melted Swiss cheese, and, behold – crispy bacon strips, espresso bacon jam and bacon aioli. Definitely not for the faint-hearted, but… the more badass the burger, the more we love it.

And by the way, Little Diner has an Empire Burger Challenge. To begin, the Empire Burger (S$50) is a massive burger that is good for 3-4 persons, unless you are incredibly hungry. And if you are, then challenge yourself to finish the Empire Burger plus fries. Do that all in twenty minutes and your burger is free!

#6 PAN ROASTED FILET OF SEA BASS

Something lighter is the Pan Roasted Filet of Sea Bass (S$25). Simple white fish that is lightly pan roasted, and served with seasonal greens and whipped potatoes. The ladies will love this.

Also available as a main in the weekday 2-course lunch sets (S$18.50++), this dish is ideal for those who do not want something overly filling lest you snooze when you get back to the office.

#7 THE “KRUSTY KRAB” BENEDICT (BRUNCH ONLY)

Want to try something different from your usual egg Benedict? Then go for The “Krusty Krab” Benedict (S$19.50) that is available on Little Diner’s weekend brunch menu. Golden crab cake pillow sits atop toasted brioche, accompanied by crispy bacon, grilled asparagus, poached egg, and two sauces – Hollandaise and a hint of chipotle aioli. You know what this means? Explosion of flavours with every bite.

#8 THE BBQ PIGWICH

The BBQ Pigwich (S$18.50) features juicy spiced pulled pork cocooned in a thin wrap with smoky BBQ sauce and fresh pickled onions. Served with a side of homemade coleslaw, this option is also available as a main course in the weekday lunch sets, and the robust flavours of the dish sure work as a perk-me-up.

#9 SMOKED DUCK BREAST SALAD

The salad lovers will enjoy the Smoked Duck Breast Salad (S$13.50). With many slices of smoked duck breast, shaved poached pears, tangy dried cranberries and honey glazed walnuts atop mixed greens, this salad is tossed in a light citrus vinaigrette. Also available as a starter for the weekday lunch sets.

#10 ALL AMERICAN BUTTERMILK FRIED CHICKEN (LUNCH AND DINNER ONLY)

We have nothing but praises for the All American Buttermilk Fried Chicken (S$18.50). It has a preparation time of 20 minutes, but thou shalt always wait patiently for indulgent fried chicken.

Little Diner’s golden fried perfection is indeed a perfect treat for dinner, and guess what? It comes drizzled with maple syrup for more oomph! Served with handcut fries and homemade coleslaw, this is an all-time favourite that we will return to Little Diner again and again for.

Besides the set lunches deals, Little Diner also has several ongoing weekday promotions. On Tuesday, it is burger day at Little Diner. Enjoy all burgers (except the Empire Burger) at S$15++ all day. On Wednesday, one dines for free with three paying diners. On Thursday, get a jug of beer at S$19.50++, a bottle of housepour wine at S$40++, or a bottle of premium wine at S$60++

For the latest updates, go to littlediner.sg and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Little Diner
789 Bukit Timah Road
Tel: +65 6466 4088
Tue to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village/Botanic Gardens

This post is brought to you by Little Diner.

Thai food fans, HANDS UP! Let us all celebrate our love for spicy and fiery flavours. Thai Food is always and forever food for the soul, and a good Thai meal does wonders. Expect nothing short of a spectrum of contrasting flavours that tickle our taste buds – sweet, sour, spicy, very spicy, and very very spicy.

Heck, even the spiciness levels have different kicks to it, and we are definitely loving it! Bring us all the Phad Thai, Tom Yum and Green Curry please.

Thai food need not be expensive. In fact, they are supposed to be economical, and the idea is to order a whole table of dishes for communal enjoyment.

Here, we share with you 11 Affordable Thai Restaurants in Singapore:

AROY DEE THAI KITCHEN

Aroy Dee Thai Kitchen used to be at Sunshine Plaza but it has since moved to a new shop diagonally across on Middle Road.

The Steamed Seabass in Thai Sauce (S$28) is pretty decent, but we prefer the one from Thai Tantric (read #10 below).

You can get the classic Thai dishes such as Green Curry Chicken (S$10) Tom Yum Talay (S$10), Som Tum (S$7). But the Pineapple Fried Rice with Chicken Floss (S$6.50) is a must-order dish here.

262 Middle Road
Tel: +65 6336 8852
Daily: 11.30am – 6am
Nearest Station: Bugis

BEERTHAI HOUSE RESTAURANT

Beerthai House Restaurant at Golden Mile Tower offers a selection of affordable Thai main dishes, desserts and drinks. Beerthai House Restaurant’s Tom Yum Soup (S$12+) was a favourite among all the dishes that we had tried.

Other items on the menu you can look forward to are the Stir Fried Pork Garlic with Rice (S$7+), Pork Leg Rice (S$7+) and Thai Steam Boat (S$7+).

6001 Beach Road
#01-50/51 Golden Mile Tower
Singapore 199589
Tel: +65 6297 7644 / 9823 6997
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway

DIANDIN LELUK THAI RESTAURANT

No lack of Thai food options when you are at Golden Mile Complex – aka Little Thailand in Singapore – but the all-time gold is Diandin Leluk Thai Restaurant. Its menu is comprehensive and nothing is overly expensive. You may take a while to decide on what to order, but let’s just say you need to have their Phad Thai (S$4) and Thai Mango Salad (S$6).

5001 Beach Road
#01-67/68/69 Golden Mile Complex
Tel: +65 6293 5101
Daily: 24 Hours
Nearest Station: Lavender

FIRST THAI RESTAURANT

First Thai restaurant is an old steward that sits on Purvis Street. It is one of the more well-known no-frills Thai Restaurants, and the Tom Yum Seafood (S$7) is a must-order. Nothing else in particular stood out though, but you can consider their Olive Fried Rice (S$8) and Fried Prawn Cake (S$3/pc).

23 Purvis Street
Tel: +65 6339 3123
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

JAI THAI

A neighbour to First Thai – and a better one at that – Jai Thai is a perennial favourite whenever we find ourselves at Bugis. Cheap and good sounds overrated, but it describes exactly every dining experience at Jai Thai. They fry one of the better Phad Thais in town, and at S$5, you get a generous serving that comes complete with prawns.

Jai Thai is listed in our guide to Singapore’s top 10 inexpensive restaurants.

27 Purvis Street
#01-01 An Chuan Building
Tel: +65 6336 6908
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bugis/City Hall

JANE THAI RESTAURANT

Orchard Towers is definitely not the best place to step in to, but if any, we would go there for Jane Thai. Sleazy as the building may be, any time is a good time for Thai food here. They serve a comprehensive selection of Thai food and you can find anything from Thai Salads (S$8 – S$12), Curries (S$10), Seafood (S$12 – S$18), and Meats (S$8 – S$10).

Jane Thai is listed in our guide to Singapore’s Top 10 budget restaurants in Singapore.

41 East Coast Road
Singapore 428761
Tel: +65 6966 5197
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Eunos

NAKHON KITCHEN

This is undoubtably a hot favourite. Nakhon Kitchen sees long queues every single day, and it is no surprise because they are known for dishing out very authentic Thai food at pocket-friendly prices. Our picks include the Thai Style Fried Kway Teow (S$4), Stir-Fried Mince Pork with Basil ($6) and Green Curry ($8) – one of the better renditions in town.

Nakhon Kitchen is listed in our guide to Singapore’s Top 10 budget restaurants in Singapore.

Blk 212 Hougang Street 21 #01-341
Singapore 530212
Tel: +65 6286 8785
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

NANA THAI RESTAURANT

Fuss-free, with a large selection of authentic and delicious Thai food at humbly prices, Nana Thai Restaurant is one of of our favourite Thai eateries at Golden Mile Complex. Basil Minced Pork with Rice (S$6), but you cannot leave without having the Tom Yum Seafood (S$15)

5001 Beach Road
#01-51/52/66C Golden Mile Complex
Tel: +65 6297 8498
Daily: 24 Hours
Nearest Station: Lavender

THAIEXPRESS

Quite contrary to “popular beliefs”, ThaiExpress is not a fast food chain. It is a restaurant chain, yes, but its casual dining style is what makes the household brand so popular and affordable.

The chefs here take their Thai food very seriously, and the kitchen is kept busy all day through because every item that is served on the table is prepared in-house with fresh ingredients and homemade sauces – cooked to order in each kitchen daily.

ThaiExpress has launched 3 brand new Sanook Sets which are priced not more than S$10.90++. Our favourite is the Sweet Chilli Fish Set (S$9.90++) which comes with Jasmine rice, Tom Kha Mushroom Soup, and Sweet Potato with Ginger Slice Dessert.

68 Orchard Road
#03-24 Plaza Singapura
Tel: +65 6339 5442
Daily: 11am to 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

THAI TANTRIC

Another Thai eatery that is worth checking out at Orchard Towers is Thai Tantric. Prices range from S$6 to S$10, and some of the items that you should try – other than the usual classic Thai dishes – include Thai Fried Rice (S$6), Deep-fried Pork with Garlic & Pepper (S$10), and Deep-fried Chicken Wings with Honey (S$10).

400 Orchard Road
#03-23 Orchard Towers
Tel: +65 9035 4499
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Sun & PH: 3pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

THAI GOLD FOOD

A popular haunt at Sunshine Plaza, Thai Gold Food offers simple and satisfying Thai food at extremely reasonable prices. From Mango Salad, to Tom Yum, Green Curry and Mango Sticky Rice, everything at this small and slightly run-down Thai eatery is cooked just right.

91 Bencoolen Street
#01-14/22 Sunshine Plaza
Tel: +65 9014 3218
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3am
Nearest Station: Bugis

There are plenty of options when dining out. Even more so when you are at Orchard Road – steaks, sushi, dim sum, salads and what have you. And then there is your fine dining, buffet and all the extravagant choices. But where do you go to when you are craving an honest Chinese meal that is unpretentious, satisfying and affordable?

Our recent lunch at Noodle Stories by TungLok Group gave us an answer, and has earned a spot in our ever-popular guide to Inexpensive Restaurants in Singapore. And it is by no surprise, because this new outlet at Orchard Central is well-loved by executives and shoppers in the area who always swing by when they need an easy Chinese meal.

We had a feast, and we really did not know how to pick just one favourite. The use of fresh ingredients in every dish made it such a stupendous meal, and we left with very happy tummies. Today, we share with you some highlights of our lunch, and do not be surprised if you bump into us at Noodle Stories, because we will definitely return for more yum for the tum.

‘Biang Biang’ Noodles (S$10.80)

The most impressive dish is also the restaurant’s signature dish – the ‘Biang Biang’ Noodles. In case you are about to reach for your dictionary, the name is really just an expression for a loud bang. Nothing much, the chef just wants you to know he hand-makes every strip of noodles fresh from scratch, and you can watch how much power goes in flipping and shaping the dough. The end result is broad, flat noodles that comes with a chewy texture and the distinct aroma of fresh flour. This Shaanxi-originated dish is cooked with an ancient recipe, and served with blanched vegetables and an hanjuku egg, or better known as the Japanese ramen egg.

A little fun fact: the Chinese character ‘Biang’ is the most complicated one ever, made up of a grand total of 57 strokes. We tried writing, but would very much prefer eating another bowl of noodles.

‘Zhajiang’ Noodles (S$8)

This is definitely another crowd pleaser. We have been to many Asian countries, and they all have their own versions of this popular noodle dish. We still love the northern style, and this is exactly what Noodles Stories dishes out on its all-day dining menu. The next time you are in town and you need your Zhajiang Noodles fix, you can count on Noodle Stories for a hearty bowl of wheat noodles topped with stir-fried pork with ‘zhajiang’ – salty fermented soybean paste.

Noodles with Onion Oil and Pan-fried Shredded Duck (S$10.80)

When a dish is bestowed with the most normal of names, we do not think too much about it, neither do we expect it to be anything out of the universe. But you know what they say about ‘do not judge a book by its cover’, yes? Because exemptions do exist, like this dish. We love how the thin and toothsome noodles are tossed in fragrant onion oil, and lavishly topped with crisp onions and perfectly pan-fried shredded duck. Now, we understand why it does not even need a spectacular name.

Eight Treasures Seafood Crispy Noodle (S$11.90)

In other words, an abundance of goodness in a bowl. The Eight Treasures Seafood Crispy Noodle comes in a wholesome portion with eight different types of ingredients to make this dish a multi-dimensional one with a spectrum of textures to boast. The portion is so generous that we would suggest getting this to share between two people so that you have room for more appetisers.

Fried Rice with Shrimp and Egg (S$10.80)

Sometimes, the simplest dish touches the hearts most. And this is one of those dishes that we can eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Every grain of rice is plump, every shrimp has a crystal-like texture; and together, they are tossed over high heat with eggs. Just like a meal at Granny’s, savouring this dish in the casual Noodle Stories’ setting speaks of a comforting and unadulterated joy.

Pork and Cabbage Pan-fried ‘Jiaozi’ (S$6 for 4 pcs)

Better known as ‘guo tie’, Noodle Stories’ rendition of this highly popular Northern Chinese dish is sure to wow its crowd. Every dumpling is handmade fresh daily, and pan-fried to a lovely golden brown – crispy on the outside, warm and luscious on the inside. Fresh minced pork that bursts with sweetness, alongside finely chopped cabbage, this is a must-try dish.

Here’s letting you in on a secret – if you go on Mondays, you enjoy a serving of either the steamed or pan-fried dumplings at only S$2++ (promotion is ongoing from now till 30 September 2014). You are very welcome.

Pork and Cabbage Dumplings (S$8 for 10 pcs)

And this is the steamed version if you prefer something lighter on the tummy. We love the crystal skin and how the healthy cooking technique enhances the sweetness of the fresh ingredients.

Pan-fried Meat Buns (S$6 for 4 pcs)

Remember how we really couldn’t decide on just one favourite? Because everything we tried was memorable in its own way, and so are these Pan-fried Meat Buns. Neatly pleated buns that are usually dipped in black rice vinegar or chili sauce, this is yet another astounding pan-fried dish that you must not miss out on when dining at Noodle Stories. The buns came with a perfect crispy bottom, and before we knew it, the plate was emptied and everyone was sinking their teeth in to the soft and fluffy buns.

Wanton with Black Vinegar and Chilli Oil (S$6 for 6 pcs)

Its Sichuan origin explains the kick you get from this spicy dish. Big dumplings filled with chopped shoulder pork, minced fresh garlic and rice wine, tossed in a flavoursome sauce that combines black vinegar, chili oil, Sichuan peppercorn and finely sliced spring onions. This dish is more widely known as the ‘chao shou’, and Noodle Stories deserves an award for their version.

Red Bean Pancake (S$6)

Who says you cannot have the best of both worlds? If you are not able to decide between savoury and sweet, why not go for the Red Bean Pancake? Its popularity is derived from the lethal combination of sweet red bean paste enveloped in pan-fried dough sheets, topped with white sesame seeds. We love ours with just the right degree of oiliness that does not leave us feeling sick and thirsty, and this is exactly why when we next return to Noodle Stories, we will end our meal with this dish.

Noodle Stories
181 Orchard Road
#07-14/15 Orchard Central
Tel: +65 6509 1878
Mon to Fri: 10.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat, Sun & PH: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

This post is brought to you by TungLok Group.

The Provision Shop at the charming Everton Park neighbourhood is a casual eatery that is opened bt Cocotte’s head chef, with hotelier Loh Lik Peng taking a consulting role in the project. We love the vibe of the cafe, and we love that it serves simple yet delicious meals at affordable prices.

Some dishes that are worth trying are Reuben sandwich (S$10), eggs Benedict (S$10), and the homemade pastas (S$14 – S$16). Remember to save room for desserts, too. The blueberry lemon cake (S$6.50) is worth a try.

The Provision Shop
Block 3 Everton Park #01-79
Tel: +65 6225 9931
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 9pm
Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Outram

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s Best Cafes.

For those of you who are not familiar, Bar Bar Black Sheep comprises three specialty kitchens of Thai, Western and North Indian with a bar in a casual and laid-back coffee-shop setting. In other words, friends and families can get together to pig out on their favourite cuisine(s) and drinks in the cooler-than-your-kopitiam Bar Bar Black Sheep, and no one needs to go through the hassle of ordering from different stalls and having to dig out coins for their individual payments, given the availability of full table service and acceptance of all major credit and debit cards.

While a host of imitators have sprouted up (some of them even with animal names too), Bar Bar Black Sheep remains the original pioneer of the concept, with 4 convenient locations across the island.

That is exactly what we love. Whether we are feeling like Thai or we need our Butter Chicken fix, or we want both on the table, our cravings will always be satisfied hassle-free. And you know what? If you and your soccer pals are cannot watch matches without some booze and comfort food, then Bar Bar Black Sheep is made for you.

Pocket-friendly prices and a mind-blowing menu of more than 150 food items, here are 10 reasons to fall in love with Bar Bar Black Sheep’s flagship outlet at Cluny Court.

1. THE LARGEST AND NEWEST BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP OUTLET

The original Bukit Timah outlet at Cherry Avenue took the local food scene by storm with its casual and chill-out coffee shop vibe, followed by the equally popular Robertson Quay and Tanjong Katong outlets.

Bar Bar Black Sheep’s flagship outlet at Cluny Court, however, is the one that you should check out. Relocated from Boat Quay 1.5 years ago and spanning over 3000 sq ft, it is not only the largest shop among the four outlets, but also the only Bar Bar Black Sheep with a large air-conditioned indoor seating area. For those who prefer to sit at the outdoor alfresco deck, the cluny court outlet comes with retractable canopies, so not to worry even if it rains. Parking is also a breeze, with direct access to the carpark at Cluny Court.

2. MORE THAN 150 ITEMS ON THE MENU TO CHOOSE FROM

The team of chefs at Bar Bar Black Sheep’s specialty kitchens come from Thailand, India and renowned local European bistros, all rich in experience and present only the best.

Bar Bar Black Sheep at Cluny Court has the most comprehensive food & drinks (read point no. 6) menu among the four outlets. There are more than 150 dishes on the menu to choose from, and that’s just crazily amazing! The amazing value and variety never goes out of fashion, keeping regulars coming back for more.

The Northern Indian menu alone features 60 dishes. Besides the classic Indian dishes like Chicken Tandoori, Fish Tikka, Butter Chicken, Naan, and Briyani, there is also an impressive selection of vegetarian dishes. And please do not leave without trying the signature Butter Chicken. Read on; we’ve even dedicated a point to the legendary dish.

If you are craving for Western food, you will face the situation of having to choose from burgers, pastas, sandwiches, as well as mains like Char Grilled Chicken (S$19.90), and Beer Battered Fish & Chips (S$16.90). Yes, we know it is not easy to choose only one. On weekends (till 3pm), look forward to Egg Benedict (S$8.90) and Full English Breakfast (S$16.90). And we kid you not when we say that the Hollandaise Sauce is rather addictive!

3. BAR BAR BLACK SHEEP AT CLUNY COURT IS THE ONLY OUTLET THAT DISHES OUT LOCAL DELICACIES

Something that not many people know is that Bar Bar Black Sheep at Cluny Court also serves excellent local food – in fact, it is the only outlet where you can find popular local dishes on the menu.

While Mee Rebus (S$10.90), Sweet & Sour Pork (S$12.90), and Curry Chicken with Rice (S$10.90) are all worth trying, the standout dish for us is the Nasi Lemak (S$12.90). It combines fragrant rice, peanuts, anchovies, egg, chicken wing, and a super addictive sambal chilli. Local delight at its best, we’d say.

4. FULL TABLE SERVICE WITH NO GST & SERVICE CHARGE

While the three kitchens are independently managed, Bar Bar Black Sheep has a centralised payment system which accepts cash and credit card. You can order your food from the wait staff with full table service; pay all together, and there is no GST and service charge.

5. AFFORDABLE, WELL-PRICED COMFORT FOOD

We all want to pledge our loyalty to somewhere that dishes out consistently good food that does not break our banks. And that is Bar Bar Black Sheep – a place that we can return to again and again. Most of the dishes are priced below S$20. Huge menu that we can go every day and order different dishes and not repeat for 3 months, quality tastes and friendly prices = we love you, Bar Bar Black Sheep.

6. BAR WITH AN EXTENSIVE DRINK LIST

Cocktails, champagne, red wines, white wines, craft beers, and draught, Bar Bar Black Sheep at Cluny Court also carries the most extensive drink menu among the four outlets. Now, at these prices, bring on the booze!

7. TO-DIE-FOR BUTTER CHICKEN

Creamy and smooth paste, with generous chunks of chicken; if we could only order one dish, it would be the Butter Chicken from the North Indian kitchen. How can anything be so heavenly, and how does the taste linger in our mouths even after days is beyond us…

8. EVERYTHING FROM THE KITCHEN IS MADE FRESHLY

From the curries to the sauces, everything from the kitchens is made fresh daily. The Hollandaise Sauce on your Eggs Ben, the sambal chili from the Nasi Lemak, the garlic naan that you eat with your Butter Chicken… Don’t we all love such a dedicated kitchen?

9. HD SCREENS TO WATCH THE LATEST SPORTS EVENTS

Get your pals and head to Bar Bar Black Sheep at Cluny Court to catch your favourite sports in action. Booze, lips-smacking good North Indian food, and live matches – it is the perfect night out with friends.

10. S$10.90 NETT SET LUNCH

If your office is in the vicinity of Bar Bar Black Sheep at Cluny Court, be sure to drop by for its set lunch that is so reasonably-priced at S$10.90 nett. Under the North Indian menu, you get vegetarian rice with Paneer and Aloo Gobi. Top up S$1 for the Chicken Tikka, Chicken Curry or Rogan Josh set.

The Western set offers the choice of a salad or dessert, and for main course, choose between sandwiches or burgers. The Thai/local menu comes with classic dishes – like Tom Yum Soup, Green Curry Rice, Phad Thai, Nasi Lemak – and a dessert.

Call it a “high-class” coffee shop if you must, this is the essence of Bar Bar Black Sheep – a place where you can have a variety of hearty, well-cooked food and a full bar, all at reasonable prices. Come as you are at Bar Bar Black Sheep’s flagship outlet at Cluny Court!

For the latest updates, ‘like’ Bar Bar Black Sheep on Facebook.

Bar Bar Black Sheep
501 Bukit Timah #01-05C
Cluny Court
Tel: +65 6763 4757
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 1am
Sat: 9am – 1am
Sun: 9am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

86 Robertson Quay
Tel: +65 6836 9255
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

879 Cherry Avenue
Nearest Station: Botanic Gardens

362 Tanjong Katong
Tel: +65 6348 8275
Nearest Station: Dakota/Paya Lebar

This post is brought to you by Bar Bar Black Sheep.

From an old school deli with awesome milkshakes, to a ghetto Thai eatery, a modern Vietnamese pho bar, and our favourite Japanese eatery – there are plenty of affordable dining options in town if you know where to go.

In this feature, we will share with you Singapore’s Top Budget Restaurants in Orchard Road.

For more recommendations on where to eat in town, read our guide to restaurants in Orchard Road.

Aston Specialities

They are no strangers to locals now. But if you do not already know, Astons’ shot to fame when they introduced very affordable steaks and casual Western food in a quick dining setting. They may not have the sexiest facade, but the food is nowhere near lacklustre. Choose from a huge menu of steaks, seafood, poultries and burgers, that all come with two side dishes.

2 Orchard Link
*Scape #03-04
Tel: +65 6509 4806
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

Caffe Beviamo

Caffe Beviamo has firmly established itself as a popular haunt with locals and expats alike. It is not difficult to understand why it is always packed. It offers affordable and well-prepared Australian-inspired food. A simple Scrambled Eggs with Toast is only S$8. If you want something more substantial, go for Pasta (S$12-18) or Pizza (S$12-14). It also has a range of tempting desserts (S$3.50-7.50), including cupcakes, carrot cake, and sticky date pudding.

Caffee Beviamo is also listed in our guide on Singapore’s Top 20 Inexpensive Restaurants.

163 Tanglin Road
#02-K1 Tanglin Mall
Tel: +65 6738 7906
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Hob Nob Cafe Bar

Hob Nob is one of the several under-the-radar spots we love in Orchard Road. It is located on level three of Far East Shopping Mall – the one beside Wheelock, not the better-known Far East Plaza. The place is small, with only 8 tables that accommodate 25 people.

The food is simple, so don’t come here expecting fancy stuff. But if you want a decent meal in town without breaking the bank, Hob Nob might just become your new favourite place. Prices start from S$9.80 for a Fried Egg & Bacon Sandwich, to S$16.80 for Spaghetti Tom Yum Seafood. The Hob Nob Fish & Chips (S$11.80) is also worth a try.

#03-18/19, Far East Shopping Centre
545 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6734 0474
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Jane Thai

Orchard Towers might not exactly be the place you have in mind for a gathering with friends, but if you dare to venture inside, you will be rewarded with affordable and good Thai dishes at Jane Thai. This Thai eatery dishes out authentic Thai food in a ghetto surrounding. Prices range from S$7 for Pineapple Fried Rice, to S$10 for Papaya Salad, and S$12 for Tom Yum Soup. Jane Thai has also recently added Mookata to the menu.

Jane Thai is listed in our guide to Singapore’s top affordable Thai restaurants.
400 Orchard Road
#04-30 Orchard Towers
Tel: +65 6887 5677
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish

Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish at Takashimaya’s Japanese food court is one of the places that we usually frequent when we want a quick fix in town. The prices of the set meals — choose from Salmon Teriyaki ($12.50), Gindara Teriyaki ($14.50), and Shio Saba ($7.50) — are pocket-friendly, and the food never fails us.

391A Orchard Road Basement 2
Takashimaya Food Hall Ngee Ann City
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

NamNam Noodle Bar

The pho and banh mi at NamNam Noodle Bar are not only delicious, but also very value-for-money. A bowl of pho is less than S$10, while the Banh Mi is only S$5.90. They also have extremely value-for-money lunch sets.

501 Orchard Road #B2-02
Wheelock Place
Tel: +65 6735 1488
Nearest Station: Orchard

Steeple’s Deli

Steeple’s Deli is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away at Tanglin Shopping Centre that makes you feel transported into a different space. They have been around for years, and what keep regulars coming back again and again are the Reuben Sandwich (S$13.90), Beef Burger (S$12.90), and the super thick and rich Milkshakes (S$5.90).

#02-24/25 Tanglin Shopping Centre
19 Tanglin Road
Tel: +65 6737 0701
Mon to Sat: 9.30am – 6.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Tsuru Koshi Udon

Another place at Takashimaya Japanese Food Court that we like to go to is the udon specialist, Tsuru Koshi.

The udons on the menu range from the basic Kake Udon (S$6.5) to the popular Curry Udon (S$9). We had the Ebi Tempura Udon (S$9) and Niku Udon (S$9) and they were fairly decent. Add S$5 to get a set meal with Mini Soboro Don or Mini Kakiage Don.

391 Orchard Road
Takashimaya Shopping Centre Food Hall
Nearest Station: Orchard/Somerset

Toss & Turn

While there are plenty of salad shops in town, what makes Toss & Turn stand out is the generous portions of fresh salads and sandwiches. Expect a huge serving of greens with your favourite sides for just S$10. It has done remarkably well since opening, so don’t be surprised to see more branches around Singapore soon.

#B4-55, ION Orchard
2 Orchard Turn
Tel: +65 6636 5835
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

For more recommendations, read our guide to restaurants in Orchard Road.

Dining out is getting increasingly expensive, and it is difficult to find an affordable restaurant in Singapore which offers decent main courses for under S$20. Which is why Lola’s Cafe at Simon Road deserves a mention. Almost all the dishes on the brunch menu (10am – 3pm) and dinner menu (6pm – 10pm) are priced below S$15 nett. For a wallet-friendly meal, note down Lola’s Cafe.

For brunch, you can have a Farmer’s Bratwurst Roll (S$8 nett), or a simple Sunny-side Stacked Sandwich. I highly recommend the Avocado Eggs Benedict (S$15 nett). The eggs were perfectly poached, and the portion was generous.

On the dinner menu, there are options like Seafood Marinara (S$14 nett), Duck Leg in Orange Mustard Sauce (S$16 nett) and Spicy Grill Chicken Burger (S$14 nett). Desserts, which are baked in-house, are also very affordable. The Lemon Meringue Tart (S$4) and Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Tart (S$5) are the best way to end your meal on a sweet note.

The food at Lola’s Cafe is not out-of-this-world-good, but they are more than good enough for a simple and fuss-free meal. What we really like is that it is a great hangout spot where you can linger over coffee and desserts after your meal. If you are staying in the area, you should drop by for brunch this weekend.

Lola’s Cafe
5 Simon Road
Tel: +65 6343 1808
Tue: 3pm – 11.30pm
Wed & Thu: 10am – 11.30pm
Fri to Sun: 10am – 12 Midnight
Nearest Station: Kovan

With a tongue-in-cheek name like Rabbit Carrot Gun, it is hard not to do a double take when we passed this watering hole along East Coast Road. Like its name suggests, Rabbit Carrot Gun does not take things too seriously. The menu is full of quirky dishes that fortunately turned out fairly well.

The casserole of Mushrooms ($14.90), described on the menu as crème fraiche on toasted brioche, poached egg & balsamic is a delicious, creamy concoction of fragrant, earthy mushrooms slowly simmered in a delicate cream sauce. The golden yolk stirred into the dish gave this a luxurious touch.

If we can overlook the amount of oil that went into making the warm caramelized onion tartlet ($13), we would have appreciated this dish a lot more. The candy-sweet onions came in a generous portion atop a flaky tart, and then topped with a dollop of strikingly pink of beetroot pesto that enlivened the dish.

We could not resist the sound of a Rhubarb and Ginger Crumble ($11.50), but it was unfortunate that this temptation resulted in the meal ending on a sour note, literally. We cringed on the first bite, and did not like that it left an odd aftertaste. The slipshod preparation of this dish was a far cry from their savoury dishes. The ice cream which came specked with vanilla beans, appeared promising, but reeked of mediocrity.

We love the chill-out vibe and the enthusiastic service of this little gem of a café. A downside of this place is the lack of air-conditioning, which can be frustrating for the heat-intolerant. But the expatriates living in the area seem to be enjoying this new addition, for they throng the place in bermudas in the evenings and on weekends for brunch.

And you’re probably as curious as we were about the name. Apparently the idea comes from the game scissors-paper-stone. So next time instead of playing scissors-paper-stone, why not try rabbit-carrot-gun instead?

Rabbit Carrot Gun
49 East Coast Road
Tel: +65 6348 8568
Tue to Sun: 8am – 12 Midnight
Nearest Station: Eunos
Words and photographs by Sarah Lim

While cafes are sprouting out everywhere these days – most with predictable and mediocre brunch, Selfish Gene Cafe at Craig Road stands out for their consistency in delivering good comfort food.

I like Selfish Gene. The cafe is welcoming and unpretentious. It is a place where I can go for a quick lunch to enjoy a simple sandwich or salad, and a nice brunch during the weekend. I like the central location at Tanjong Pagar. If I was working in the area, I’d drop by for lunch everyday. And of course, I like the simple and well-executed food.

Selfish Gene Cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, homemade baked goods and coffee. Besides the fact that the food is mostly made from scratch, I also like that they are reasonably-priced. You can get a roasted beef sandwich for $12.80, while the delicious scrambled eggs on brioche is just $10.80.

So, if you haven’t been to Selfish Gene Cafe before, you should drop by this week.

Selfish Gene Cafe
40 Craig Road
Tel: +65 6423 1324
Mon to Fri: 10am – 5.30pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

For more recommendations, read my list of Best Cafes in Singapore

This guide to Singapore’s Top 20 Inexpensive Restaurants was last updated on 1 May 2015.

Dining out is an expensive affair, and nowadays, it is very difficult to find a decent restaurant/cafe which has main courses for under $20. However, if you know where to go, there are still some hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered.

Here is a list of Singapore’s Top 20 Inexpensive Restaurants where you can go for a good meal, even on a budget.

CLUB STREET SOCIAL

Located at Gemmil Lane (a quiet corner off Club Street), Club Street Social is a chic restaurant/bar which does simple and well-made food — such as all day breakfast, salad, soup, crostini, tramezzini, panini — at reasonable prices.

5 Gemmill Lane, off Club Street
Tel: +65 6225 5043
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10.30pm
Sat: 9am – 10.30pm
Sun: 9am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Chinatown/Raffles Place

FRESH FRUITS LAB

It is a bright and cheerful spot that is tastefully designed to a laboratory theme. Think iced water served in beakers, and fruit juices served in test tubes and conical flasks. The menu is also specially designed to incorporate a fruity element; even their side salads for the main courses come with generous chunks of fresh fruits.

The must-try dishes are the Fish & Chips (S$19), Da Bomb Burger (S$19), Messy Big Breakfast (S$17) and Rainbow Cake (S$7).

351 Changi Road
Tel: +65 6677 6741
Tue to Thu, & Sun: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 12midnight
Nearest Station: Eunos/Kembangan

HOOPLA COFFEE & KITCHEN

The moment we stepped in to Hoopla Coffee & Kitchen, we knew we would fall in love with the cafe. It ticked all the right boxes: well-cooked comfort food at affordable prices (everything on the menu is priced below S$17); a welcoming and friendly environment where you can hang around with your friends; good coffee and homemade cakes; and for those who drive, inexpensive and convenient parking at Infinite Studios.

#01-05, Infinite Studios, 21 Media Circle
Tel: +65 6778 0051
Tue to Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: One-North

JAI THAI

A neighbour to First Thai – and a better one at that – Jai Thai is a perennial favourite whenever we find ourselves at Bugis. Cheap and good sounds overrated, but it describes exactly every dining experience at Jai Thai. They fry one of the better Phad Thais in town, and at S$5, you get a generous serving that comes complete with prawns.

27 Purvis Street
#01-01 An Chuan Building
Tel: +65 6336 6908
Daily: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

7 Clover Way
Tel: +65 6258 0228
Mon to Sat: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 9pm
Sun: 6pm – 9pm
Nearest Station: Marymount/Bishan

K. COOK KOREAN BBQ BUFFET

K. Cook Korean BBQ Buffet has just opened at Orchard Central for a few months, but it has already earned the loyalty of many customers for a simple reason. It is one of the most affordable Korean BBQ buffet restaurants in Singapore. Granted, the quality and variety of meat are not the best, but given the prices, there is really nothing to complain about.

Lunch: S$14.90++ (Mon to Fri), S$24.90++ (Sat, Sun, Eve of PH, & PH).
Dinner: S$24.90++ (Mon to Thu), S$26.90++ (Sat, Sun, Eve of PH, & PH).

#07-01, Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6884 7282
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

KINSA SUSHI

Nestled in the quaint HillV2, Kinsa Sushi is made for the heartlanders and all who love a simple Japanese meal. Prices are not at all intimidating to say the least, and the menu is well-covered with the usual Nippon favourites prepared with premium ingredients.

The must-try dish at Kinsa Sushi is undoubtedly the Wagyon Don (S$24.80). Prepared with Grade A4 Kagoshima Wagyu and prized for its premium marbling, your don will be nothing but divine.

Equally good is the Kinsa Roll (S$14.80) – cucumber and avocado maki roll, wrapped with torched salmon and salmon roe, and jazzed up with a mentaiko that adds some cheesiness and saltiness to the fresh roll.

4 Hillview Rise
HillV2 #02-02
Tel: +65 67107278
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Fri, Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bukit Batok

LITTLE DINER

Little Diner is a New York style restaurant and bar that serves honest and hearty comfort food at super reasonable prices. Some of the dishes that we love include Truffle Fries (S$9.50), Buttermilk Fried Chicken (S$18.50), Beef Burger (S$21.50), Truffle Mac & Cheese (S$20.50) and the Nutella French Toast (S$16.50).

789 Bukit Timah Road
Tel: +65 6466 4088
Tue to Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village/Botanic Gardens

MIHARU SAPPORO RAMEN

The first few brands that we fell in love with when the ramen trend hit Singapore was Miharu Sapporo Ramen. It used to sit along Robertson Quay, at Gallery Hotel. When the hotel ceased operations, Miharu fans were left upset and deprived of their favourite Sapporo ramen. However the good news is that NOW, they are exclusively at Millenia Walk and you can enjoy a bowl of Miharu’s goodness!

Rejoice, ramen fans! The outlet at Millenia Walk is slightly bigger and very comfortable, while your favourite ramen with the famous Nishiyama noodles specially imported from Japan, and rich miso broth is still flavourful as always. Our favourite ramen is most definitely the Tokusen Miso Ramen with a special miso blend (S$14.80++).

Millenia Walk #01-06
9 Raffles Boulevard
Tel: +65 6733 8464
Daily: 12.00pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall/Promenade

NAKHON KITCHEN

While Nakhon Kitchen is more of an eatery than a restaurant, it is a popular option for many because of its affordable and authentic Thai food. Perennial favourites include Pad Thai, Beef Kway Teow, Green Curry Chicken and Stir-fried Pork with Thai Basil.

212 Hougang Street 21 #01-341
Tel: +65 6286 8785
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Kovan

NOUVELLE FUSION KITCHEN & BAR

Nouvelle Fusion Kitchen & Bar takes centre stage at SCAPE as an edgy fusion restaurant with signature tapas conveyor belt. It is uncommon to see anything other than sushi on conveyor belts, and Nouvelle Fusion Kitchen & Bar sure wins for novelty. Here’s other tidbit – the fusion tapas conveyor belt items are all at a flat price of S$1.50 per plate.

Besides tapas, Nouvelle Fusion Kitchen & Bar also serves classy fusion mains with equally reasonable price tags. Think risotto, duck confit and so much more.

Scape, #03-03,
2 Orchard Link,
Singapore 237978
Tel: +65 6834 4063
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

NUDE SEAFOOD

NUDE Seafood draws its name from the words ‘Nutritional’ and ‘Delicious’, with their dedication in serving fresh seafood at super affordable prices.

NUDE’s emphasis on the usage of quality catches cooked in the simplest of methods is simple – to let the freshness of the ingredients take the centre stage.

There are only five items on the menu, and most of them are reasonably priced between S$16 to S$22. We enjoyed their Salmon (S$16), a sashimi-grade fish and smoked with hickory sauce, served with “Forgotten Grains” such as red rice, chickpeas, oats and almonds – grains that are rarely eaten and thus, its name.

Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3
12 Marina Boulevard, #01-02
Singapore 019982
Tel: +65 6443 1167
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8pm
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Nearest Station: Downtown

RYOSHI SUSHI IKEIKEMARU

Ryoshi Sushi Ikeikemaru may be a conveyer belt sushi restaurant, but don’t let that fool you into thinking that they are a medicore joint. They have surprisingly fresh sushi at pocket-friendly prices – definitely worth a try when you are craving for Japanese food.

Ryoshi Sushi is also listed in our guide to the most affordable sushi restaurants in Singapore.

177 River Valley Road
Basement 1 Liang Court
Tel: +65 6337 1022
Daily: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

SAVEUR RESTAURANT

Saveur Restaurant at Purvis Street has done a good job by serving inexpensive French food. The long line of hungry patrons during meal times is a testament to its popularity.

It is probably impossible to find another place that gives you Pan Seared Foie Gras for $8, and Duck Confit for $9.90. Saveur is still worth a try for those who are dining out on a budget.

5 Purvis Street #01-04
Tel: +65 6100 1788
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

SIN LEE FOODS

A notch above the rest – that’s how we’d describe Sin Lee foods. It is different from most of the cafes that serve your typical brunch fare like Eggs Benedict and Pancakes. The offerings here are creative, well-cooked and refreshing.

Our favourite dish was the Soft Shell Crab Bun (S$19). A well-seasoned breaded soft shell crab with kimchi aioli and house slaw sandwiched between a toasted bun – we’d come back again for this. Other dishes that are worth trying include The Breakfast Tortilla (S$19) and Aburi Broccoli Salad (S$12).

The much-lauded Fried Chicken & Waffles (S$21.90, on the other hand, did not live up to the hype. The waffle and the melted maple butter were excellent, but the fried chicken was slightly underwhelming.

4 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee
Tel: +65 6377 3170
Tue to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat: 9.30am – 9pm
Sun: 9.30am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

SPATHE PUBLIC HOUSE

Housed in a historic brick and timber shophouse along Mohamed Sultan Road, Spathe Public House encourages communal dining by serving dishes with hearty portions that are perfect for sharing.

The food is relatively inexpensive – Spathe Classics include Crispy Black-inked Hake (S$18), Spathe Cheese Burger (S$14) and Homemade Salt Beef Sandwich on Ciabatta (S$22). We also highly recommend the Belgian Waffles & Fried Chicken (S$17), which is one of the best we’ve had in town.

8 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-01
Tel: +65 6735 1035
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

SUPPLY & DEMAND

With its al fresco area and a rooftop bar, Supply & Demand Modern Bistro & Rooftop Bar at Esplanade Mall is a great place for a relaxing meal. They focus on Italian and South East Asian cuisines, and you may expect a combination of mouthwatering street food – from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Burma – presented in a modern way.

Most of the pastas, pizzas and main courses are priced below S$20. Come with a big group and order a variety of dishes to share.

#01-13 Esplanade Mall
8 Raffles Avenue
Tel: +65 6336 0588
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 2am
Sun: 11.30am – 11pm
Nearest Station: City Hall/Esplanade

THE ASSEMBLY GROUND

This relatively new addition to the cafe scene is a pleasant one. Spacious, dimly-lit and sexy, very good green tea latte and more. Fronted by the guys behind label Benjamin Barker, The Assembly Ground at The Cathay is fast becoming our favourite spot to have a break when we are at the Dhoby Ghaut area.

On the food menu, they’ve got you covered with appetisers, sandwiches and burgers, salads and soup, pastas and pizzas and brunch food. Among the many, the Porcini Cream pasta (S$17.50) deserves a mention. Think a trio of mushrooms, truffle-scented egg and generous amount of shaved parmesan.

As fans of scrambled eggs, we had to try the Omega 3 Scrambled Eggs (S$14). A shame it was not as runny as we’d like it to be. Other outstanding creations to order include the Ragout of Beef with Rosti (S$22), Beef Chilli Fettucine (S$16) and The Assembly Wagyu Burger S$24).

#01-21 The Cathay
2 Handy Road
Tel: +65 67333375
Mon to Fri: 11am – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

TAMOYA UDON

This udon specialist from Japan serves cheap and delicious handmade udon. This is a place where regulars come back again and again for a quick fix.

177 River Valley Road
B1 Liang court
Daily: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

101 Thomson Road
United Square #B1-07
Daily: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

YAYOIKEN JAPANESE RESTAURANT

This Japanese casual dining restaurant serves surprisingly decent food at affordable prices. Most of the dishes are priced below S$15, and there are several value-for-money sets at S$9.90.

Meidi-ya Supermarket
177 River Valley Road
#B1-50 Liang Court Shopping Centre
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

For more recommendations, read our guide to Singapore’s Top 10 Budget Restaurants in Orchard Road.