Affordable Yet Tasty Food at Novena for Budget Eaters
Hungry and watching your wallet? Novena is the perfect spot for those eager to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Tucked within the bustling heart of Singapore, food at Novena offers a treasure trove of budget-friendly food options for students, working adults, and anyone hunting for good eats on a budget.
From cozy hawker stalls to hidden gems in malls, this guide explores some of the best affordable yet tasty meals in Novena. You’ll find everything from local delights to international cuisine, proving you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for affordability.
Why Novena?
When it comes to food hunting, Novena often flies under the radar compared to hotspots like Orchard Road or Bugis. However, its central location and compact layout make it a fantastic destination for budget eaters. With its mix of hawker centers, casual eateries, and food courts, Novena offers variety without high prices.
Plus, the MRT station and nearby shopping malls like Velocity @ Novena Square and Square 2 are hubs of affordable dining options, making it incredibly convenient for quick meals that won’t stretch your budget.
Affordable Local Favorites in Novena
Singaporeans love their hawker fare, and Novena is home to some amazing wallet-friendly spots. Here are some must-try options for locals and tourists alike.
1. Chee Cheong Fun at Albert Centre (Hidden Gem Edition)
If you’re craving chee cheong fun (steamed rice rolls), you can’t go wrong with the stall tucked into the basement of Velocity @ Novena. For around $2.50, you’ll get silky rolls drizzled with sweet sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Pair it with a kopi or teh for a quintessential Singaporean breakfast under $5. Perfect for early risers needing affordable fuel for the day.
2. Novena Fried Hokkien Mee
Nothing hits the spot like a hearty plate of fried Hokkien mee, and this hidden gem in a nearby hawker center serves up a generous portion for just $4.50. The prawns are juicy, the noodles are perfectly soaked in flavor, and the sambal chili completes the dish. It’s budget comfort food done right.
International Eats That Won’t Break the Bank
Novena isn’t just about local fare. Its international food scene caters to hungry diners on a budget. There’s something for every craving.
3. Thai Basil Chicken Rice at Golden Mile Mini Mart
For authentic Thai food, head over to Golden Mile Mini Mart, just a short walk from Novena MRT. Their basil chicken rice is packed with spicy, aromatic flavors and costs only $5. The portions won’t leave you hungry, and you can customize how much chili you want for an extra punch.
4. Japanese Bento Deals at Don Don Donki
While Don Don Donki is famous for its fresh Japanese produce, their ready-to-eat bento boxes are a game changer for budget eaters. For less than $10, you can grab a full meal with perfectly seared salmon, rice, and sides. Keep an eye out for evening discounts when prices dip even further.
Quick Vegetarian Options
Vegetarians on a budget will also find plenty of delicious food in Novena. Affordable plant-based options are more abundant here than you might expect.
5. Thunder Tea Rice
Thunder tea rice is a nutrient-packed dish loaded with rice, greens, tofu, and peanuts, all topped with a fragrant tea-based broth. For $5-$6, this hearty vegetarian meal is satisfying and healthy. It’s a great introduction to hawker-style vegetarian food for first-timers.
6. Square 2’s Mala Xiang Guo (Customizable for Vegetarians)
Lovers of spicy food will enjoy the Mala Xiang Guo in Square 2’s food court. Customize your bowl by choosing your favorite vegetables, tofu, and other meat-free ingredients. Prices are based on weight, but you can easily enjoy a satisfying meal for under $8.
Hidden Cafes for Budget Eaters
If cafes are more your style, Novena has several hidden gems offering great coffee and snacks at affordable prices.
7. The Clueless Goat
Located within walking distance of Novena MRT, The Clueless Goat serves up hearty brunch options on a budget. Their avocado toast loaded with feta and poached eggs is a steal at just $8, while a cup of robust, aromatic coffee will set you back only $4. Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch.
8. Old-school Kaya Toast
Get your kaya toast fix at an old-school coffee shop in Novena Square. For less than $4, you’ll get crispy toast slathered with kaya (coconut jam), a couple of soft-boiled eggs, and a cup of kopi. Nostalgia on a plate that doesn’t cost a fortune.
Late-night Dining Options
Craving supper after hours? Novena has you covered with affordable late-night dining spots.
9. Prata Paradise
No Singaporean food list is complete without prata. At Prata Paradise in Balestier, you can get a plain prata for just $1.20, or go for egg or cheese options at slightly higher prices. Their curry is rich and flavorful, making this a perfect stop for a late-night snack.
- 24-hour Dim Sum
For dim sum fans, a 24-hour dim sum stall near Novena MRT serves up everything from har gao (prawn dumplings) to siew mai at around $3-$5 per plate. Affordable, tasty, and available anytime you want.
Final Thoughts on Eating Well in Novena
Novena proves that eating out doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re craving hawker classics, international flavors, or light cafe bites, you’ll find it here without overspending.
The best part? You don’t need to compromise on quality or taste. With so many options, Novena is the ultimate destination for budget-conscious foodies.
Next time your stomach grumbles, hop on the MRT and start exploring the culinary delights of Novena. Your wallet will thank you!
