Where to Eat At Around Universities in Singapore
Campus food can get tiring real fast after having them repetitively, but eating out for lunch every day can be a tad bit too time-consuming as well. Here are some great eateries near your universities, whether you're studying in NTU, SMU, SIT, NUS or SUTD, which will give you wider daily meal options other than (boring) cafeteria food!
NUS/SIT
1. Poke Theory @ One Kentridge
Poke Theory has 6 outlets scattered all over Singapore and has since then ventured into Surabaya, Indonesia as well. It is also one of the few Halal-certified places which specialise in poke bowls.
These colourful bowls do not just look great on your Instagram feed but also make for a great protein fix. Trying out new food can be daunting at first but fret not because Poke Theory has made ordering your poke bowl of the day easy with four simple steps: Base It (pick a size), Colour It (pick your vegetables), Top It (pick your sashimi cuts) and Finish It (pick your sauce). Make sure to also pick up a bottle of their delicious fresh pressed juice to pair with your bowl!
Address: 1 Lower Kent Ridge Road, One@KentRidge, #02-12, Singapore 119082
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 11am-8pm
Saturday: 11am-3.30pm
Closed on Sunday and Public Holidays
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2. Charcoal Thai
Source: Charcoal Thai
Hot pot and barbeque are both great on their own but imagine being able to have both at the same time! Mookata is a Thai communal dining tradition which allows for both meat and seafood to be grilled and left simmered in soup in just one pot.
Whether you are looking for a way to celebrate the end of a hectic semester or you’re looking to fuel up before tackling a week filled with deadlines, mookata should definitely be at the top of your list. Charcoal Thai offers both ala carte and buffet mookata with options of seafood, chicken and collagen. While they specialise in mookata, scrumptious Thai street food like Braised Pork Rice, Thai Boat Noodle and Thai Premium Ice Cream are also on the menu!
Address: Blk 321 Clementi Ave 3, #02-08, Singapore 129905
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 11am-10.30pm
Save up to 47% at Charcoal Thai with ChopeDeals here!
3. Fong Seng Nasi Lemak
Source: Fong Seng Nasi Lemak
If you have not already heard, Fong Seng Nasi Lemak is heaven for University students like yourself. It’s hard not to imagine why- they operate for 22 hours a day, offer a wide array of Nasi Lemak ingredient add-ons at affordable prices and are also Halal-certified!
The Nasi Lemak sets come with different ingredients such as teriyaki chicken, luncheon meat, saba fish and more to top off the aromatic coconut rice, cucumbers and sambal chilli. Hunger strikes at the most unconventional timing sometimes and when it does, remember that Fong Seng Nasi Lemak is open and waiting for you.
Address: 22 Clementi Road, Singapore 129751
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 6am-4am
Read on more about Fong Seng Nasi Lemak here!
4. Veera’s Cafe
Source: https://www.facebook.com/veerascafe/
Veera’s Cafe is as authentic as it can get what with its food being served on banana bed leaf with no utensils unless you specifically request for a set. Situated at Fusionopolis, this Chettinad eatery provides fast service alongside quality tasting food at low prices.
The plus point about growing up as a Singaporean is that our taste buds are accustomed to various flavours. Here at Veera Cafe, you will find all your favourite Indian delicacies such as Briyani, Dosai and Naan. Each of them comes with various sides or fillings so do check out their website listed below for the full menu. If you would like to go beyond your comfort zone, do give their South or North Indian meals a try and be prepared to an excellent explosion of spices on the tips of your tongue.
Address: 22 Clementi Road, Singapore 129751
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 8am-10pm
Hop onto Veera’s Cafe website here for more details!
5. Indochilli
Source: https://www.facebook.com/IndoChili/
Indochilli operates with the motive of bringing the true flavours of Indonesia to your table in Singapore. The owner places highlight on herbs and spices which then shows distinctively in their food. Simply said, you will not be disappointed.
Just like many other Indonesian eateries you might have frequented, the likes of Tahu Telor, Sate Ayam Madura and Ayam Penyet must not be missed. For some warm lovin’, get the Sop Bontot (ox-tail soup) and Ikan Bakar Kecap for a tinge of spice in your meal - both amazing when paired with steaming warm rice.
Address: 2 Science Park Drive Ascent, #01-09, Singapore 118222
Opening Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 11am-9pm
Closed on Sunday
Learn more about Indochilli before your visit here!
NTU
1. Tim Ho Wan (Jurong Point)
Source: Tim Ho Wan
This particular franchise which originated from Hong Kong is so prominent that when we think of dim sum, we think of Tim Ho Wan. To date, there are currently twelve outlets in sunny Singapore which makes it easily accessible no matter where you live.
This Michelin-starred restaurant has expanded into 7 countries and has earned itself a name for bringing quality yet affordable dim sum to the dinner table. Some must-try menu items include the Baked Bun with BBQ Pork, Steamed Egg Cake, Prawn Dumpling, Vermicelli roll stuffed with pig's liver and Pan Fried Carrot Cake.
Dubbed the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, it will be a waste if you turn down this opportunity of dining in with your friends after-school. The more the merrier!
Address: 63 Jurong West Central 3, #03-42/43/44/45/46/47/K3/K4, Jurong Point, Singapore 6483315
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 11am-10pm
Saturday-Sunday & Eve of Public Holidays: 9am-10pm
Save up to 25% at Tim Ho Wan (Jurong Point) with ChopeDeals here!
2. Fish & Co. (Jurong Point)
Source: Fish & Co.
To a lot of people, Fish & Co. is the restaurant we all grew up with. It has a familiar taste that we are all familiar with and reminds us of birthday celebrations and big family dinners. True to its name, Fish & Co.’s menu has never strayed far from the seafood element.
Some honourable menu mentions are the award-winning Best Fish & Chips and Mussels with GLBS (garlic lemon butter sauce, yum!). If you are in the mood for carbs, do place an order for the best-selling Shrimp & Clam Aglio Olio. New menus are introduced every now and then so be sure to keep an eye open for that too.
The combination of fish & chips can never go wrong and makes for a good meal, be it for lunch or dinner!
Address: 1 Jurong West Central 2, #02-20E, Jurong Point, Singapore 648886
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 11.30am-11pm
Save up to 35% at Fish & Co. (Jurong Point) with ChopeDeals here!
3. Mother Earth
Source: facebook.com/motherearthsg/
Three words for this place: a hidden gem. Located at Arena Country Club, this fresh face in the vegetarian eatery scene is only a 7-minute drive away from NTU.
Mother Earth specialises in affordable Chinese and Western vegan food while encouraging their customers to be eco-friendly. They actively urge customers to bring their own reusable containers for take-out in hopes of promoting an eco-friendly lifestyle. Some customer favourites include their Say No to Shark Fin Soup, Creamy Abalone Mushroom, Bittergourd & Salted Egg Omelette and Yam Ring with Gongbao Monkey head Mushroom.
Address: 511 Upper Jurong Rd, #01-04, Arena Country Club, Singapore 638366
Opening Hours:
Wednesday-Monday: 10am-10pm
Closed on Tuesdays
Make sure to bring along your reusable food containers for take-out when you visit Mother Earth here!
4. Bok’s Kitchen by Hidden Chefs
Source: Bok's Kitchen
The homely Bok’s Kitchen is parked alongside Boon Lay Avenue and is the product of the masterminds behind The Hidden Chefs who organises private dining arrangements for various events. This cafe features a very simple interior and makes for a wonderful place to drop by and wind down at after a strenuous day of class.
The menu at this family-run cafe places emphasis on local Chinese and Western delights while staying affordable. The Char Siew Chicken Rice has received thumbs-ups from various food blogs while the Creamy Chicken Bowl is comforting and might just be what you need for a little pick me up. Complete your meal with a warm cup of Nanyang Kopi and you are set for the day!
Address: 60 Jurong West Street 91, Nanyang Community Club, Singapore 649040
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 9am-10pm
Learn more about Bok’s Kitchen by Hidden Chefs here!
5. Oh My Mango
Source: https://www.facebook.com/OMMDB/
Oh My Mango is a dessert shop with influences of Thailand, Korea and Japan. This cafe is located at Level 1 of Gek Poh Shopping Centre and while it might not be very big in size, they sure are big with their menu with over 40 items on the list!
Bingsu might be a dessert originating from Korea but Oh My Mango has put a twist to it by having Thai Milk Tea Bingsu. This is a personal favourite of mine as the ice shavings are made from actual Thai milk tea! It is a must-try for all Thai milk tea enthusiasts like myself. Other notable bingsu variants include the Mango Bingsu and Coconut Bingsu with Gula Melaka. Japan’s thick and fluffy toasts are also listed on the menu - also with a Thai twist to it. Pair your bingsu of choice with the Tom Yam Goong Toast or Thai Milk Tea Toast for the best dessert combination that is worth every calorie.
Address: 762 Jurong West Street 75, Gek Poh Shopping Centre, #01-334, Singapore 640762
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 12pm-10pm
Saturday-Sunday: 10am-10pm
Read on more about Oh My Mango here!
SUSS/SIM
1. The Cavern Horsecity
Source: The Cavern Horsecity
Located just 10 minutes away from campus ground is a great hang-out place for big groups of friends. At Cavern Horsecity, you will be spoilt for choice with their extensive menu ranging from local and Indian cuisines to American, Australian and British. Some favourites are the Satti Sooroo (claypot rice), Buffalo Wings, Classic Bolognese and The Cavern Cheeseburger.
This cosy eatery makes for a great place to unwind or a fun night out with friends on Fridays!
Address: 100 Turf Club Road, Singapore 287992
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 4pm-1am
Saturday: 5pm-1am
Sunday: 6pm-1am
Save up to 45% at The Cavern Horsecity with ChopeDeals here!
2. Slappy Cakes (The Grandstand)
Source: Slappy Cakes Singapore
To some, pancakes are their comfort food and to others, it’s their guilty pleasure. Everybody likes pancakes and that is a universal fact. While these thick delicious buttery goodness are already good on their own, it tastes even better when you can make them your own.
At Slappy Cakes, you get to have pancakes in the shapes and sizes you want - no limitations at all. You can choose from 5 batters - Chocolate, Whole Grain, Peanut Butter, Pandan and Butter Milk - and an assortment of fixings and toppings like fruits, sausages, chocolate chips and spreads.
It’s time to let out your creative side with pancakes!
Address: 200 Turf Club Road, #01-20/21, The Grandstand, Singapore 287994
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 10am-9.30pm
Saturday-Sunday & PH: 8am-9.30pm
Save up to 50% at Slappy Cakes (The Grandstand) with ChopeDeals here!
3. Dookki
Source: Dookki Singapore
There are days when you just crave for spicy food and spicy Korean rice cakes (Tteokbokki) might just be the answer to that. In Korean, Dookki means two meals in Korean which also signifies their tagline: spicy rice cakes for the first meal and fried rice for the second meal.
Dookki has a self-serve open bar concept which equates to an unlimited supply of ingredients for the whole 60 or 90 minutes of your choice. There are multiple variations of rice cakes to enjoy from such as original, cheese and sweet potato (a definite must-try!). The different sauces signify different heat levels which are meant to satisfy the varying taste palates.
Have fun satisfying your spicy cravings while creating your own versions of Tteokbokki with your friends!
Address: 3155 Commonwealth Ave West, #B1-30/31, The Clementi Mall, Singapore 129588
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 11:30am-10pm
Learn more about Dookki here!
4. The Living Cafe
Source: https://www.facebook.com/livingcafesg/
The Living Cafe is not a fully-vegan eatery, they are big on serving organic food along with raw vegetables. The menu is a mix of both Western and Asian cuisines while still ensuring that everything served is as healthy as it can get - with gluten-free options available.
The feature of this cafe definitely goes to their raw mains - yes you read it right, these dishes require no cooking which keeps the nutrients at its maximum best. Their raw mains consist of Pad Thai Noodles (think zucchini instead of actual noodles), Zucchini Lasagne, Taco Boats which are held by crunchy lettuce shells and Raw Roasted Broccoli Mushroom Pizza. You may also opt for the signature burgers like Spiced Chicken, Herbed Salmon and Sesame Crusted Organic Tofu or Brown Rice Bowls if you are looking for a heartier meal.
Address: 789 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269763
Opening Hours:
Monday-Tuesday: 10am-7pm
Wednesday-Friday: 10m-8pm
Saturday-Sunday: 9am-8pm
Read on more about The Living Cafe here!
5. Meat n’ Chill
Source: https://www.facebook.com/meatnchill/
Just like its name, Meat n’ Chill gives its patrons the opportunity to meet and eat meat while chilling. This meat joint is located a few steps away from Sixth Avenue MRT and is very easily accessible even for students like yourself. Meat n’ Chill takes pride in bringing families and friends together with plates of their signature steaks and ribs.
Start off with their in-house marinated wings (buffalo or garlic soy) and Bro Bruce Quesadilla before jumping into the mains. Their pork ribs have been dubbed “The Meanest in Town” and comes in a couple of marinades for you to choose from. If you are up for some fiery spice, do consider the flavours available for The Spicy #YOLO Challenge series. Do also consider getting the Meat n’ Chill Seafood Platter or Tortilla Set sharing platters if you are paying a visit with a group of friends. Nothing makes for a better bonding session than with the company of great food.
Address: 805 Bukit Timah Road, Sixth Avenue Centre, #01-04, Singapore 279883
Opening Hours:
Tuesday-Friday: 11:30am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10pm
Saturday-Sunday: 11am-3pm, 6pm-10pm
Closed on Monday
Find out more about Meat n’ Chill here!
SUTD
1. Wok Master
Source: Wok Master
Located at Changi City Point, is Wok Master - the heaven of all hawker food lovers. Instead of melting away under the combination of Singapore’s unbearable heat and the hot flames at hawker centres, you can now enjoy your favourite wok delicacies in the comforts of an air-conditioned restaurant.
Some highly recommended ala-carte and student-friendly dishes include Seafood Fried Rice, Claypot Hokkien Mee, Claypot Seafood Hor Fun and Sizzling Gong Bao Chicken Rice. These authentic, smoky flavours are just 8 minutes away from SUTD, so you can always head down in between classes for a nice change of lunch spots!
Address: 5 Changi Business Park Central 1, #01-28, Changi City Point, Singapore 486038
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 10am-10pm
Save up to 25% at Wok Master with ChopeDeals here!
2. Cali, Park Avenue Changi Hotel
Source: Cali
If you are not in the mood for Asian cuisine, this is probably where you might want to head to. Cali is situated inside the heart of Park Avenue Rochester Hotel and takes pride in bringing the flavours of California to the shores of Singapore.
Here, you can start off your meal with the Cali Wings, then continue with the perfectly grilled Baby Back Rib and Steak & Fries. If you are a carb-lover, Cali also offers a wide array of pasta dishes which includes Prawn & Asparagus (the chef’s recommendation!) and Saffron Risotto with Wild Mushrooms. End off your splendid meal with a slice of Tiramisu Cake and Chocolate Lava Cake. This already sounds like the perfect place for a get-together after a long week of presentations or examinations!
Address: 2 Changi Business Park Avenue 1, Park Avenue Changi Hotel, Singapore 486015
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: All-day
Save up to 45% at Cali with ChopeDeals here!
3. Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen
Source: Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen
Fun fact: The Vietnamese cuisines served at Paper Rice are as authentic as it can get in Singapore because these scrumptious food are prepared by the skilful chefs from the motherland or who have received accolades!
Get ready to be whisked straight to Vietnam as you dive into the steaming all-time favourite Pho, hand-pulled Spring Chicken and the Cà Phê Trúng (Hanoi's signature egg coffee). Treat yourself a little bit more (you deserve it!) by indulging in a cup of hand-drip coffee or high tea set.
Address: 5 Changi Business Park Central 1, #B1-26/27, Changi City Point, Singapore 486038
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 11am-10pm
Save up to 45% at Paper Rice Vietnamese Kitchen with ChopeDeals here!
4. fArt Tartz
Source: https://www.instagram.com/farttartz/
fArt Tartz is an open-spaced cafe which has been tastefully decorated with whimsical flower pots and artificial grass patches, fitting for a garden-themed cafe. Their spacious interior allows for a lot of natural light to come in and makes for a great place to dine in with some good company or to catch-up on a good book. The main feature of this cafe is their no-bake desserts and food plating. Just like the picture above, all their pasta dishes, salads and even tarts are served in mason jars. Make sure to snap a few photos for the gram before you dig into your food!
Some notable main dishes include their Mentai Takoyaki, Chilled Prawn Angel’s Hair, Gooey Mentaiko Fish which are all labelled recommended on their menu. Desserts are a must-have here especially since they are exclusive handcrafted no-bake recipes. The Flower-Potted “Mud” Tarts comes in four regular flavours - Nutella Oreo, Cookie Butter, Matcha and Mango - while their Hand-Crafted Tarts in Jars comes in six flavours - Tiramisu Original, Bailey’s, Earl Grey Tea, Salted Caramel Pistachio, Strawberry Short Tart and Sea Salt Nutella Short Tart.
Address: 1 Expo Drive, Singapore Expo, Max-Atria (Foyer 1), #02-04, Singapore 486150
Opening Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 9am-6pm
Friday-Sunday: 9am-8pm
Read on more about fArt Tartz and their no-bakes here!
5. Percolate Coffee
Source: https://www.instagram.com/percolatecoffee/
Nestled under Block 136 of Bedok North Avenue 3 is Percolate Coffee which has turned 5 this year. This hip yet cosy neighbourhood cafe has a clean overall outlook with its minimal wall decorations and wooden furnishings. Percolate brews their coffee with Papa Palheta’s Terra Firma beans and the final product is nothing less than balanced yet nutty with a bittersweet chocolate finish.
Some hit beverages off the menu are the Iced Chocolate, Long Black + Stroopwafel, Thai Coco Latte and Matcha Milo Dinosaur if you are not up for any caffeine. Percolate is also big on their croissant series like their PB&J Croissant and the savoury Hae Bee Hiam Croissant. If you would like to fill up your stomach, go for their all-day food such as the “Chicken Rice” Couscous and Unagi Soba.
Address: 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, #01-152B, Singapore 460136
Opening Hours:
Monday: 10.30am-9.30pm
Wednesday-Friday: 10.30am-9.30pm
Saturday-Sunday: 9am-9.30pm
Closed on Tuesday
Find out more about Fart Tartz here!
SMU
1. Baja Fresh Mexican Grill
Source: Baja Fresh Mexican Grill
Located just 5 minutes away by foot from campus grounds, this student-friendly restaurant makes for a great pit-stop for food in between classes! It’s also a great hangout place for when hunger strikes after late-nights in school slaving over assignments, as it ends operations later than the usual F&B places.
Baja Fresh Mexican Grill is well-known for its big food portions, great ambience, fresh chips and the free-flow salsa bar! The next time you pay this affordable Mexican joint a visit, do give their signature Baja Bowl, Spicy Chicken Taquito, Enchilada Style Burrito and Pico De Gallo a chance that you will not regret.
Address: 9 Bras Basah Road, Rendezvous Gallery, #01-03, Singapore 189559
Opening Hours:
Sunday-Tuesday: 7.30am-11pm
Wednesday-Saturday: 7.30am-4am
Save up to 35% at Baja Fresh Mexican Grill with ChopeDeals here!
2. NamNam
Source: NamNam Noodle Bar
Long hours of sitting through lectures in an aircon-blast room can bring on the unwanted chills and make you crave for warmth upon your poor shivering soul. On days like these, nothing can beat the wonders of steaming hot soup.
NamNam Noodle Bar is a casual quick-service noodle bar which serves a variety of noodles, bahn mi and the all-time favourite Vietnamese cuisine, Pho. What better way to shake off the restlessness from long, cold lectures than warming yourself up with a humble yet flavorful bowl of Pho?
P.S. Here’s a tip to making your NamNam experience even more Pho-ntastic: Be sure to squeeze the lime provided for an extra flavour of zest in the aromatic soup!
Address: Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Road, #01-55, Singapore 238839
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 8am-10pm
Save up to 18% at NamNam Noodle Bar with ChopeDeals here!
3. Sweetfish Poke
Source: Sweetfish Poke
Poke bowls may have been unfamiliar a year back but now, it has become a staple health food and enjoyed by a lot of people on a daily basis. This Californian signature cuisine is always a joy to have as it is made out of all the ingredients you like and this dish will never give you any excuse to not like the combination you have carefully picked out at the counter.
Contrary to its name, Sweetfish Poke has more than just fresh sashimi cuts to offer. Make sure to go for the Roasted Sesame Octopus or Kimchi Octopus instead of sticking to the usual salmon or tuna sashimi when choosing your toppings. It is never too late to venture out and try something new when it comes to food and at Sweetfish Poke, you won’t be let down!
Address: 13 Stamford Road, #B2-30, Capitol Piazza, Singapore 178905
Opening Hours:
Monday-Sunday: 11.30am-8pm
Save up to 24% at Sweetfish Poke with ChopeDeals here!
4. The Big Cheese
Source: https://www.facebook.com/thebigcheesesg/
If peanut butter goes well with jelly, macaroni is the best when paired with cheese. Mac & cheese is a heavenly combination and is the go-to dish for many no matter rain or shine. This simple union of pasta and cheddar cheese is of English origin but is loved by many around the globe today.
The Big Cheese is a mere 5-minute walk from SMU and is Muslim-owned. Be prepared to be spoiled for choice with the customisation option here. Yes, you read that right, you can customise your Mac & Cheese to your liking! For a very affordable price, you can build your own mac & cheese, by choosing two cheese base mixed with two meat or vegetable options, alongside a topping. If you are not confident with your customisation skills, the in-house speciality flavours include The Big Cheese, All American and Mac & Grill.
Address: 91 Bencoolen Street, 01-59, Singapore 189652
Opening Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 12pm-9pm
Find out how to customise your Mac and Cheese fix here!
5. Crossings Cafe
Source: Crossings Cafe
Crossings Cafe is the embodiment of giving back to the community. This social enterprise provides employment opportunities for disadvantaged youths while donating all of their daily profits to charity!
While Crossings Cafe is big on its charitable causes, they make sure to go even bigger on the quality and taste of their food. Their mains are reasonably priced and its cosy interior provides the perfect ambience for a good meal with your University mates. Some remarkable dishes off their menu include the juicy Chicken and Aubergine Parmigiana, the chef-recommended Chicken and Grilled Mushroom Parmigiana and the well-balanced Chilli Crab Pasta. Round up your friends after school for a short trip down to Crossings Cafe for that good karma!
Address: 55 Waterloo Street, Catholic Centre, Singapore 187954
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8am-10pm
Saturday-Sunday & Public Holiday: 10am-10pm
Learn more about Crossings Cafe here!
