How Much Does Food Cost in Singapore? A Budget-Friendly Guide for Expats
Moving to Singapore: Why Food Costs Matter
Singapore is renowned for its vibrant food scene, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to affordable hawker centers. However, for expats new to the city, understanding food costs is essential for budgeting and adjusting to your new lifestyle. Whether you're dining out, exploring local hawker centers, or cooking at home, Singapore offers a variety of dining options that cater to all budgets.
Food is an integral part of Singapore’s culture, and it’s common to hear locals greet each other with “Have you eaten?”—a testament to how food is woven into the fabric of daily life here. But for expats, knowing how to navigate food costs in Singapore can make a significant difference in your monthly expenses.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the costs associated with dining out and cooking at home in Singapore, along with practical tips for enjoying great meals without overspending.
Where to Find Affordable Meals
In Singapore, eating out doesn't have to break the bank. Local hawker centers, which are government-run food courts, offer a wide variety of delicious dishes at budget-friendly prices. From affordable chicken rice to flavorful laksa, hawker centers are a great place to experience authentic Singaporean food. You can also find international cuisines scattered around the island, with many casual dining spots offering meals at reasonable prices, making it easy to enjoy diverse flavors without overspending. Check out the table below for more information:
Tip: Expect to pay between SGD 3 to SGD 8 for a satisfying meal at a hawker center, depending on the dish.
Supermarkets and Cooking at Home
If you're looking to save even more, cooking at home is a great option. While eating out is often affordable, buying ingredients and preparing meals in your own kitchen can save you money in the long run. The cost of groceries in Singapore varies depending on where you shop and what you buy.
- Basic Groceries: A week’s worth of groceries for one person typically costs around SGD 30–SGD 60, depending on your eating habits.
- Staples:
- Rice (SGD 2–SGD 5 per kg)
- Eggs (SGD 3–SGD 5 for a dozen)
- Vegetables (SGD 2–SGD 8 per week)
- Meat (SGD 5–SGD 10 per kg for chicken)
Tip: Look for local supermarkets like FairPrice or Cold Storage, or visit wet markets for fresh and affordable produce. Additionally, supermarkets like Giant and Sheng Siong offer competitive pricing on certain products, making them great alternatives for budget-conscious shoppers.
How to define Singaporean food?
As a relatively “young” country, Singapore has borrowed cuisines from all over the world and repackages our own version of borrowed dishes as a “Singaporean” dish. This has sparked some heated debates over the years with neighboring countries competing over ownership of certain dishes. However, Singaporean food can simply be defined as dishes you eat in Singapore. From Hainanese Chicken Rice to Bah Kut Teh to Chili Crabs. Singapore is a very exciting food haven. Although it can be a bit confusing, the food is always comforting.
Where to eat in Singapore and price points of these places?
Hawker Centers
Hawker centers are the heart and soul of Singapore’s food culture, offering an incredible array of local dishes at affordable prices. These bustling, government-run food courts are home to numerous hawkers, each specializing in a handful of dishes—from iconic chicken rice and char kway teow to crispy fritters and more. There truly is something for everyone, no matter your taste preferences or budget.
Singaporeans are passionate about their food, often willing to queue up for their favorite hawker dishes. Thankfully, you won’t have to worry about food cleanliness. All hawker center operators must undergo mandatory food safety and hygiene training, and the centers themselves are regularly checked for cleanliness.
You can find hawker centers scattered throughout the island, particularly near public housing estates and larger markets. These venues are well-maintained and frequently cleaned, with staff regularly wiping down tables. It’s common to see diners saving seats using tissues or bags—a local practice that’s both accepted and safe.
Kopitiam (Coffee shop)
Kopitiam: The Heart of Singaporean Coffee Culture
Kopitiams are traditional coffee shops that are deeply embedded in Singapore’s culture. These cozy establishments offer a mix of nostalgia and authentic local flavors, making them a must-visit for anyone new to the island.
Key traits of a Kopitiam:
- Nostalgic Atmosphere: With vintage furniture, tiled floors, and ceiling fans, kopitiams evoke a sense of nostalgia, often reminding locals of their childhood memories.
- Strong Coffee: Known for its aromatic, strong coffee, typically brewed in traditional stovetop coffee makers and served in small cups, kopitiam coffee is a beloved daily ritual for many.
- Local Food: Kopitiams serve affordable, comforting local dishes such as kaya toast (toasted bread with coconut egg jam), soft-boiled eggs, and half-boiled eggs with soy sauce and pepper.
- Casual and Friendly: Known for their relaxed ambiance, kopitiams are perfect spots to meet friends, enjoy a casual meal, or simply savor a cup of coffee.
- Community Hubs: These coffee shops also serve as social spaces, where people gather to connect, relax, and stay up-to-date with the latest news.
Kopitiams are more than just places to grab a meal or coffee—they offer a unique window into Singapore's heritage and remain an important part of the daily lives of locals.
TzeChar (Eating House)
Tze char which also mean stir fry is a style of Chinese cooking that is popular in Singapore and generally found in a setting similar to coffee shops. Tze char involves a variety of dishes, often stir-fried, thatare served family-style. Tze char is known for its affordability, variety, and the ability to customize your meal.
Key Traits of Tze Char:
- Fresh Ingredients: Tze char restaurants prioritize the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure flavorful dishes.
- Extensive Variety: The menu is often diverse, offering a wide range of flavors, from seafood to stir-fries, catering to different palates.
- Affordability: Known for being budget-friendly, tze char is a go-to option for families and groups seeking a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- Social Experience: Tze char is commonly enjoyed in a communal setting, fostering a shared dining experience that brings people together.
- Authenticity: Many tze char restaurants offer authentic Chinese cuisine, often featuring traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Overall, tze char provides a unique and flavorful dining experience in Singapore. It combines the affordability and variety of hawker centers with the personalized touch and social atmosphere of a family-style meal.
Cafés in Singapore
A café in Singapore typically refers to a small establishment offering a wide variety of beverages, such as coffee and tea, along with snacks, desserts, and light meals. Many cafés feature a modern, cozy, or minimalist aesthetic, catering to customers looking for a relaxed atmosphere to socialize, work, or simply enjoy a premium cup of coffee. The menu often includes specialty coffee, artisanal cakes, gourmet sandwiches, and brunch items, making cafés especially popular among younger professionals and expatriates.
Key traits that differentiate cafés from hawker centers and traditional coffee shops (kopitiams) include:
- Ambiance and Setting: Cafés usually have a curated, stylish interior with air conditioning and comfortable seating. In contrast, hawker centers are open-air, bustling food courts with a communal environment, while kopitiams are more casual, with simpler furnishings and a down-to-earth atmosphere.
- Price Point: Cafés generally have higher prices due to their focus on quality ingredients, ambiance, and service. Hawker centers and kopitiams, on the other hand, offer affordable local dishes, appealing to a broader range of customers.
- Menu: Cafés focus on Western-style or fusion cuisine with an emphasis on coffee culture. In contrast, hawker centers offer a variety of local dishes such as chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow, while kopitiams serve traditional beverages like kopi (local coffee), teh (tea), and simple local fare.
- Clientele: Cafés attract a younger, cosmopolitan crowd, often seeking a quieter space to work or unwind. Hawker centers and kopitiams cater to people from all walks of life, drawn by their affordability and the wide variety of local food options.
In essence, cafés in Singapore offer a more modern, premium experience compared to the vibrant, community-focused nature of hawker centers and the traditional simplicity of kopitiams.
Notable locations for International Cuisines
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is reflected in the vast array of international cuisine available across the island. Whether you're craving authentic Italian pizza, spicy Mexican tacos, or traditional Japanese sushi, there's a location in Singapore to satisfy every palate.
- Arab Street – If you're in the mood for Middle Eastern cuisine, Arab Street is the place to be. The area is filled with restaurants offering dishes like hummus, kebabs, and baklava, along with the beautiful sight of the Sultan mosque. Popular spots include Derwish Turkish Restaurant and Beirut Grill, serving authentic Turkish and Lebanese dishes.
- Little India – Known for its vibrant cultural experience, Little India also offers some of the best Indian food in Singapore. From rich curries and tandoori dishes to vegetarian dosas and chaats, you can experience the diverse flavors of North and South Indian cuisines. Visit Muthu’s Curry for its famous fish head curry or Komala Vilas for a satisfying vegetarian thali.
- Chinatown – Besides offering the best of Chinese cuisine, Chinatown is home to a variety of international restaurants. One of the standout international spots here is Lucha Loco, a lively Mexican joint serving up delicious tacos and margaritas. You’ll also find Mykonos on the Bay, where you can enjoy Mediterranean dishes in a charming setting.
- Kampong Glam – This historic district has evolved into a modern food haven, offering everything from local Malay dishes to international fare. If you're looking for European-inspired cuisine, head to Cicheti for delicious Italian pizzas or Fika Swedish Café & Bistro for a taste of Swedish meatballs and pastries.
- Robertson Quay – This riverside location is famous for its wide selection of international restaurants, perfect for a scenic meal. You can indulge in fine Italian dining at Rosso Vino or savor modern Australian cuisine at Boomarang Bistro & Bar. It’s also a great place to relax at cafés that serve classic Western breakfasts.
- Holland Village – A popular spot among expatriates, Holland Village offers a range of global cuisine. From authentic Japanese sushi at Sushi Tei to gourmet burgers at Fat Boys’ The Burger Bar, it’s a great destination for casual dining with friends.
- Lavender - Goldenmile may have since closed down but this does not stop Singaporean from finding authentic thai restaurants located around the area. Malls like City Gate and Aperia now house restaurants such as Im Em Restaurant , Nana Thai and Thai Beerhouse. Do make sure to drop by Thai Supermarket @ Aperia mall for authentic thai products and snacks.
- Tanjong Pagar –A hub for Koreanfood lovers, Tanjong Pagar boasts an impressive selection of Korean cuisine. For top-tier Korean BBQ, head to Super Star K or O.BBa BBQ, where you can grill succulent cuts of meat at your table.
Apps to Help You Save
If you'd like to maximize your budget, we'd highly recommend downloading these tools:
- Eatigo: Find discounts of up to 50% at participating restaurants.
- Burpple Beyond: Enjoy 1-for-1 deals at select cafes and eateries.
- GrabFood: Look for promo codes or discounts on meal deliveries.
Conclusion
Singapore’s food culture is a testament to its multicultural identity, where diverse culinary traditions come together to create a unique and flavorful dining experience. Whether you’re indulging in local favorites at a hawker center or exploring international cuisine in trendy neighborhoods, Singapore offers something for every palate. As you continue to explore the island’s vibrant food scene, you’ll discover that every meal is not just about the flavors, but also a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. So, get ready to dive into Singapore’s culinary landscape and savor the endless possibilities it has to offer.