Singapore is known as a food haven, and the SIM campus is near to many economical food options. For international students seeking a taste of home or an adventurous journey through affordable yummy delights, this guide promises to uncover a variety of enticing options around SIM Campus.
1. DING TE LE Shanghai Panfried Dumpling
Ding Te Le is your go-to spot for authentic Chinese dishes, conveniently located along Cheong Chin Nam Rd, just a short walk from Beauty World MRT Station. This cozy eatery is a favourite among locals, especially students and office workers, serving up hearty portions of traditional Chinese noodles and dumplings at reasonable prices!
From the classic Steamed Pork and Soup Bun (招牌小笼包) to the flavourful Minced Pork Noodle in Bean Sauce (杂酱面), most items on the menu are priced below $10, making it perfect for students looking to save a dime while satisfying their cravings for Chinese cuisine.
With its comforting ambiance and affordable menu, Ding Te Le is the perfect spot for students to enjoy a taste of comforting Chinese food.
Image credit: https://danielfooddiary.com/2017/05/11/dingtele/
Address: 6 Cheong Chin Nam Rd, Singapore 599731
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 2:15pm, 5:30pm to 12:15am
Directions: Board either bus 75 or 184 at SIM Campus and alight 4 stops later at Beauty World Stn Exit B. Ding Te Le is just a short 3-minute walk away from Beauty World Stn Exit B. (Total journey time: 10mins)
Ding Te Le is not halal certified.
2. Al-Azhar Restaurant
Located at the foot of Bukit Timah, Al-Azhar Restaurant is a haven for Indian, Muslim, and Indonesian students seeking flavourful delights.
Here, you’ll discover a diverse menu featuring North and South Indian cuisine, Western dishes, Malay favourites, Indonesian delights, and even halal versions of Singaporean Chinese fare. From aromatic biryanis to flavourful tandoori delights, each dish is prepared with care and respect for halal dietary needs.
Despite its popularity, Al-Azhar maintains reasonable prices, with an average cost per meal at around $10, making it a top choice for students looking for a hearty meal without breaking your budget.
Image credit: https://www.facebook.com/AlAzharSG
Address: 11 Cheong Chin Nam Road Singapore 599736
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Directions: Take either bus 75 or 184 at SIM Campus and alight 4 stops later at Beauty World Stn Exit B. From there, Al-Azhar is just a 4-minute stroll away. (Total journey time: 10mins)
Al-Azhar Restaurant is halal certified.
3. Time for Thai
Transport yourself to the streets of Thailand at Time for Thai, a culinary gem that offers a taste of home to Thai students longing for familiar flavours.
At Time for Thai, you’ll find a diverse menu featuring traditional Thai dishes such as Pineapple Fried Rice, Seafood Pad Thai and Green Curry. And for dessert? Treat yourself to the beloved Mango Sticky Rice or explore other sweet treats like Red Ruby.
The best part? Most individual dishes are priced under $10, ensuring a delightful culinary experience without breaking the bank.
Image credit: https://www.facebook.com/AlAzharSG
Address: 15 Cheong Chin Nam Road Singapore 599739
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 1am
Directions: Hop on either bus 75 or 184 and alight 4 stops later at Beauty World Stn Exit B. From there, it’s just a brief 3-minute walk to Time for Thai. (Total journey time: 10mins)
Time for Thai is halal certified.
4. Little Myanmar
Get ready for a taste adventure at Little Myanmar Halal Foods! Situated in a cosy coffee shop in Clementi, this place serves up authentic Burmese cuisine. Established by Kyaw Kyaw Lin, a Mandalay native and devout Muslim, it brings the vibrant flavours of Myanmar right to your plate!
Their menu offers a variety of dishes, including the creamy soft tofu noodle and aromatic chicken dum biryani. Don’t miss their famous Moh Hin Khar, like Myanmar’s rendition of laksa, or the delicious Shan Noodle. What’s more? It’s a hotspot for Burmese locals, a clear sign of its authentic taste. Burmese students missing a taste of home will find comfort in these familiar flavours!
With prices starting from just $6 to $7.50 per person, it offers a hearty meal without straining your budget. Plus, it’s conveniently located just a short 6-minute walk from Clementi MRT Station.
Image credit: https://eatbook.sg/little–myanmar–halal–foods/
Address: 328 Clementi Avenue 2, #01-220, Singapore 120328
Opening hours: Tue-Fri 9am to 8:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am to 8:30pm
Directions: Catch bus 184 opposite SIM Campus and disembark at Clementi Stn Exit B. Little Myanmar is a 6-minute walk from there. (Total journey time: 20mins)
Little Myanmar Halal Foods is a Muslim-owned eatery.
5. Captain Kim Korean BBQ
Prepare to feast at Captain Kim Korean BBQ, conveniently located 15mins away from SIM Campus, within Grantal Mall.
For an affordable price of $15.90++, students can enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch that’s sure to satisfy your craving. From black pepper chicken and sweet honey chicken to flavourful beef bulgogi, the options are endless. Indulge in classic favourites like tteokbokki, japchae, and crispy Korean pancakes, and round off your meal with delightful desserts such as pandan jelly sago and honeydew sago.
Don’t forget to bring along your student pass to enjoy this exclusive student buffet lunch rate!
Image credit: https://kingdomfood.sg/captain-kim-korean-bbq-hotpot/
Address: Grantral Mall, 3151 Commonwealth Ave West #02-05 Singapore 129581
Opening hours: This student deal is only available on weekdays for lunch from 11:30am to 3:30pm. Please note that the buffet counter closes at 3pm.
Directions: Board bus 52 or 154 opposite SIM Campus and alight at 8 stops later at Clementi Stn Exit A. Captain Kim Korean BBQ, located on level 2 within Grantral Mall, is just a minute’s stroll away from the bus stop. (Total journey time: 15mins)
Captain Kim Korean BBQ is halal certified.
6. Chirashizushi Shou
Yearning for a taste of Japan? Chirashizushi Shou is a hidden gem tucked away in Bukit Timah Plaza. This Japanese eatery offers a pocket-friendly escape for international students.
With a wide selection, including Chashu Don and Yakiniku Ramen starting from $8.90, their menu caters to a variety of palates. Additionally, indulge in classic sushi rolls and traditional side dishes such as tamago mentaiko, priced at $3.90, and delightful chawanmushi for just $2.90!
Image credit: https://eatbook.sg/chirashizushi-shou/
Address: 1 Jalan Anak Bukit, Bukit Timah Plaza, #B1-60 Singapore 588996
Opening Hours: Daily 11:30am to 9:30pm (Break from 4pm to 5:30pm)
Directions: Catch either bus 52, 61, 75, or 184 from SIM Campus bus and disembark 3 stops later at Pei Hwa Presby Pr Sch. Chirashizushi Shou is located within Bukit Timah Plaza, which is a 6-minute walk away. (Total journey time: 15mins)
Chirashizushi Shou is not halal certified.
Conclusion
As you embark on your journey at SIM, these dining spots aren’t just about food; they’re about forging connections and creating memories. From comforting classics from your home countries to bold new flavours, there’s something for everyone!
Whether it’s a quick bite between classes or a leisurely meal with friends, these eateries are ready to welcome you into a world of delicious experiences. With a variety of cuisines available around campus, you’re sure to find something to satisfy any craving at an affordable price. Check out our reviews of some of these eateries on our Instagram page!
