From hipster hawkers to aesthetically pleasing cafes, Singapore boasts a vibrant food scene, with new food and beverage (F&B) establishments sprouting out like mushrooms after rain. However, as a student, do you struggle to find more atas food places that you can actually afford? If so, fret not! It is still possible to enjoy restaurant-quality eats at affordable prices! We have compiled this list of four cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy atas meals under $15.
1. Chirashi King Kong
Chirashi King Kong is a Japanese hot spot best known for its truffle-infused rice bowls, and for good reason. It now has four outlets at Biopolis Way (One-North), Tanjong Pagar Plaza, Millenia Walk and Sunshine Plaza.
Their Salmon Mentaiko Bowl ($10.90) is a fan favourite. Filled with six sizeable slabs of aburi salmon, drizzled with torched mentaiko sauce, and draped over a bed of fluffy truffle-infused rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your tastebuds.
Or, if you enjoy eating raw fish, their Bara Chirashi ($13.90) includes three different cuts of freshly diced sashimi: tuna, salmon, and swordfish.
Location: Blk 1 Tanjong Pagar Plaza, #02-06, Singapore 082001
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar station
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday:11.30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 11.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.
(Closed on Sundays)
2. Tangled Pasta
Tangled Pasta is the new kid on the block, but fans already say it gives fellow competitor, Tipo, a run for its money!
Located in the basement of Chinatown Point, Tangled Pasta sells four types of pasta handmade from scratch – spaghetti, fusilli, penne, and pappardelle rice – which comes in an assortment of naturally-derived flavourings and colours.
For the adventurous at heart, the odd-sounding Mango Tango ($9.90) offers a refreshing twist to your not-so-basic squid ink spaghetti aglio olio – it is laden with sweet chunks of mango salsa!
Tangled Pasta only serves as a takeaway kiosk, but fret not – one way is to have them by the riverside at Clarke Quay (just one stop away) for an affordable pasta date night!
Location: 133 New Bridge Rd, #B1-52B, Singapore 059413
Nearest MRT: Chinatown station
Opening Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
3. Lola’s Cafe
A popular neighbourhood spot for cafe-hoppers in the Kovan area, Lola’s Cafe offers quality brunch meals at reasonable prices – a stark contrast compared to similar cafes in the city, selling overpriced meals. Plus points for being pet-friendly as well!
If you’re craving for some finger-lickin’ good fried chicken, the Honey Paprika Crispy Wings ($10.00) is a crowd-pleaser. It is known for its mix of sweet and spicy mid joint wings that is well marinated in spices and honey.
The dish is originally a starter, but the item is so addictive that some customers even have it as a main.
Location: 5 Simon Rd, Singapore 545893
Nearest MRT: Hougang station
Opening Hours: 10 a.m. – 10.30 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
4. Hambaobao
With their catchy name derived from the Mandarin word for “burger”, Hambaobao serves affordable, Asian-inspired artisanal burgers. Initially operating at Beauty World Hawker Centre, the stall now has an air-conditioned premise located at Jalan Besar.
Their menu includes five signature burgers: The Classic Beef ($7.50), Spiced Pulled Pork ($7.50), What The Fish! ($8), Crispy Pork Belly ($8), and Ayam Buah Keluak ($8).
If you have a sweet tooth, Hambaobao offers an array of homemade pastries – such as the Apom Berkuah ($5), a modern take on a traditional Peranakan dessert.
Location: 11 Sam Leong Rd, #03-08 Trio Building, Singapore 207903
Nearest MRT: Jalan Besar station
Opening Hours: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
