Singapore often gets tagged as one of the world’s most expensive cities to eat and live in, yet for savvy travelers and local food lovers alike, the city offers a vibrant and deeply affordable street food culture. At the heart of this affordability are Singapore’s hawker centres—open-air food courts where generations of vendors have been serving up classics and hidden gems at prices often under S$5 (about USD 3.70). In these communal spaces, culinary traditions meet everyday practicality, allowing diners to sample authentic Singaporean cuisine without breaking the bank.
This article explores top budget bites and where to find them, offering tips on navigating Singapore’s iconic food culture for less than five dollars.
Understanding Singapore’s Hawker Culture
Singapore’s hawker centres are more than just affordable dining options—they are a social institution and a significant cultural heritage. Recognised by UNESCO for their communal relevance and culinary diversity, these centres combine Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Peranakan foodways in one place.
Today, it’s still possible to enjoy full meals, snacks, and drinks for S$5 or less at many stalls, especially in neighbourhood hawker centres away from prime tourist districts.
Top Cheap Eats in Singapore for Under S$5
Here are five quintessential Singaporean eats you can typically find for around S$5 or less at hawker centres and neighbourhood food courts across the city.
Economy Rice (Mix-and-Match Plate)
One of the purest bargains in Singapore, Economy Rice lets diners pick several dishes (typically veggies and proteins) over rice for a set price based on what you choose. It’s a hearty meal staple for many locals.
Where to find it: Almost every hawker centre has an Economy Rice stall. Head to places like Tiong Bahru Market or Albert Centre Market & Food Centre on Queen Street for reliable, budget-friendly options.
Sliced Fish Soup
A comforting, light dish, sliced fish soup combines delicate fish slices, vegetables, and tofu in a clear broth, usually served with rice or noodles. Thanks to its simple ingredients and generous portions, it frequently falls under the S$5 mark.
Where to find it: Look for fish soup stalls in larger hawker centres like Maxwell Food Centre or Tiong Bahru Market.
Nasi Lemak
Originating from Malay cuisine, Nasi Lemak centres on coconut rice paired with sambal, eggs, anchovies, and sometimes fried chicken. Smaller portions or simplified versions are commonly priced under S$5, especially at neighbourhood centres.
Where to find it: Hawker spots in Clementi and Bedok often serve economical plates ideal for lunch or dinner.
Fishball Noodles and Bak Chor Mee
Two local noodle classics—fishball noodles and Bak Chor Mee (minced pork noodles)—are mainstays at Singapore hawker centres. With tender noodles, springy fishballs, or savory pork, these bowls provide flavourful meals that frequently satisfy on a budget.
Where to find them: At neighbourhood centres like Hong Lim Market & Food Centre or Amoy Street Food Centre, you’ll find stalls offering these noodles for around S$4-S$5.
Kopi and Toast (Breakfast Combo)
For a cheaper start to the day, the classic pairing of kopi (local coffee) and kaya toast is a Singaporean favourite. Coffee or tea at traditional kopi stalls typically costs under S$2, while kaya toast is often under S$3.
Where to find it: Kopitiams inside hawker centres or in suburban coffee shops offer the most authentic and affordable breakfast combos.
Where to Find Cheap Eats in Singapore
While delicious, cheap meals can be found all around the city, certain hawker centres are particularly known for their density of budget-friendly options:
Notable Hawker Centres for Budget Food
- Tiong Bahru Market: A classic hawker destination with plenty of S$5-friendly stalls.
- Maxwell Food Centre: Loved for local favourites like fish soup and chicken rice, with many sub-$5 options.
- Albert Centre Market & Food Centre: Historic centre near Bugis with traditional dishes at modest prices.
- Hong Lim Market & Food Centre: Offers diverse hawker dishes, from noodles to snacks, many under S$5.
- Clementi and Bedok Hawker Centres: Residential hubs where locals frequently dine on budget meals that often hit the S$5 mark or lower.
Tips for Budget Dining in Singapore
To make the most of cheap eats under S$5:
- Visit neighbourhood hawker centres rather than mall food courts; prices tend to be lower.
- Go early or late: Lunch and dinner rushes can sell out cheaper dishes early.
- Order local classics: Dishes like sliced fish soup, economy rice, and noodle bowls typically cost less than trendier fusion options.
- Look for set combinations: Many stalls offer small portion combos for budget travellers.
Final Word: Affordable Flavours in the Lion City
Singapore’s reputation as an expensive city belies a thriving environment for affordable, everyday meals. By focusing on hawker centres and traditional eateries, visitors and residents alike can enjoy fresh, authentic flavours at S$5 or below. These budget bites not only fill the stomach but also offer authentic glimpses into the city’s multicultural identity—one plate at a time.
