Broke But Hungry? 9 Restaurants For When Your Bank Account Is On A Diet

Eating out in Singapore doesn’t always have to mean instant noodles or hawker food when you’re on a budget. With a little know-how, you can still find affordable restaurants that serve scrumptious hotpot, sushi, steaks, or even grilled seafood.

From big-name chains to hidden gems, these spots prove that good food and good value can go hand in hand. Here’s a list of restaurants recommended by Gen Z, where you can stretch your dollar and satiate your hunger.

Affordable non-halal restaurants in Singapore

1. Hai Di Lao

Known for its impeccable service and endless hotpot choices, Hai Di Lao feels like a luxury night out, but the costs even out when you split the bill with friends. Students flock here for the lively vibe, free snacks, drinks, and even manicures while waiting.

“It’s expensive and I’d like to eat there more often if I have the money.” – Moonie, 19

2. Genki Sushi

Genki Sushi is the go-to for quick, tasty sushi that won’t drain your wallet. The conveyor belt system adds fun to the meal, while regular promotions make it easy to feast on nigiri, rolls, and sides for under $30.

“I often have cravings to eat salmon [sashimi], and I go there often to satisfy my cravings.” – Moonie, 19

3. Bread Street Kitchen

Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen may sound intimidating, but their set lunches and occasional promos make it accessible. For under $50, you can enjoy polished British classics in a sleek Marina Bay setting. It’s a “treat yourself” spot that delivers value for money without being over the top.

“​​I have been watching western cooking shows, which led me to Gordon Ramsay. … I actually am not sure if this is Michelin-starred but Gordon Ramsay is known to have many Michelin stars so haha.” – Phoebe Ang, 22

4. Ramen Keisuke

Ramen Keisuke offers steaming bowls of ramen starting under $20. Its free-flow hard-boiled eggs and marinated bean sprouts mean you’ll never leave hungry. When you’re missing Japan, this is a budget-friendly fix for some Japanese comfort food.

Affordable halal restaurants in Singapore

5. Chiko Pollo

Chiko Pollo is where hearty comfort food – sizzling steaks, saucy pastas and stacked burgers – meets wallet-friendly indulgence. The portions are generous, the prices range from $20 to $30 per person, and the casual setting makes it an easy go-to for group dinners or late-night bites.

“My perspective is a little different. As a practising Muslim, the conversation around Michelin stars in Singapore is unique, as there isn’t yet a restaurant that is both Halal-certified and star-rated. But honestly, it allows me to look at what truly makes a dining experience exceptional. 

In my line of work, I have the privilege of curating dining experiences for clients with some of Singapore’s best chefs, including those with Michelin stars. When you’re in that world, you begin to see past the hype and recognise that the star isn’t the only measure of a truly memorable meal. 

For me personally, I save up for a ‘milestone’ meal. When I’m celebrating something important, like birthdays, career promotion or dating anniversaries, I look for a place with heart, impeccable service, and of course great food! A place like Chiko Pollo, The Social Outcast, Tiram. The ultimate luxury in dining isn’t about the rating on the door; it’s about the quality of the ingredients, the soulfulness of the cooking, and most importantly, the memories you create around the table.” – Nadiah Farwizah, 23

6. Tiram

Tiram is a laid-back seafood bar and grill that delivers flavour-packed plates without the hefty price tag. Think succulent fresh oysters, mouthwatering lobster and chips, and seafood platters perfect for sharing with friends. With its casual atmosphere and seafood mains under $45, it’s a solid choice when you’re craving something luxe but won’t wipe out your week’s allowance.

7. The Dim Sum Place @ North Bridge Rd

This halal-certified eatery makes dim sum accessible for all with an average cost of $20 to $30 per person. Take your pick from steamed buns, dumplings, cheong fun and more, which are great for sharing. Gather a few friends, split a table of dishes, and you’ll end up with a satisfying feast.

“They have a variety of dim sum and especially the molten salted egg custard bun is a MUST. On top of that, the main dish portion is commendable. Overall price is affordable, the restaurant is often packed, food are served fast and the staff are friendly.” – Sya, 27

8. Captain Kim Korean BBQ & Hotpot Buffet

Captain Kim keeps Korean BBQ and hotpot fun and affordable with buffet spreads that don’t skimp on quality. Students particularly love the weekday lunch deals (under $15?!), where endless grilled meats, banchan, and hot dishes mean you can eat to your heart’s content without stressing over the bill.

9. Seoul Garden Hotpot

Seoul Garden delivers simmering hot pot sets from $16, ideal for solo diners or smaller groups on a budget. Whether it’s kimchi jjigae or soon dubu, the flavours comfort your soul and your wallet.

“[Captain Kim Korean BBQ and Seoul Garden Hotpot are the] closest available [halal] options to taste Korean food [in Singapore] and experience the culture. Service of the restaurant is good.” – Sya, 27

Food always tastes better when you don’t have to worry about the bill. These student-friendly restaurants prove that eating out in Singapore can be both affordable and satisfying. With plenty of variety from halal dim sum to hearty ramen, you’ll never run out of options that keep both your stomach and your wallet happy.