The Cheapest Full Meal in Singapore for One Dollar Ninety at Nguan Express 88
$1.90 Chicken Rice
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Searching for the Cheapest Filling Meal in Singapore
Today, I challenged myself to find the cheapest proper meal in Singapore that can actually fill me up. Something local. Something comforting. Something delicious. This led me straight to Nguan Express 88 in Ang Mo Kio, right in the heartlands where the best hidden gems always seem to be.
Before I even saw the stall, I could smell the rich aroma of chicken rice. That warm chicken stock fragrance has a way of pulling you in immediately. And the first thing I noticed was the queue. It was constant. Long but moving. A clear sign the food is worth waiting for.
A Quick Look at the Surroundings
While walking in, I got distracted by all the fruit stalls around the area. Everything was incredibly affordable. I even left with a whole bag of fruit, which I will show you in my next video. You will not believe how much all of that costs.
Ordering the One Dollar Ninety Chicken Rice
I joined the queue for the famous one-dollar ninety plate. When I reached the counter, I asked to dine in. The lady asked if I wanted chilli. Of course, the answer was yes.
When the plate came out, I was genuinely shocked. For $1.90, the portion looked extremely generous. A generous serving of rice, a good portion of chicken, and the chilli neatly on top, bringing everything together.
Taste Test and First Impressions
The Rice
My first bite was the rice, and the flavour hit me immediately. You could taste the chicken stock in every grain. It was aromatic, rich, and full of depth.
The Chicken
The chicken was juicy, tender, and surprisingly tasty for such a low price. Nothing felt watered down or bland. It was a proper plate of chicken rice, the kind that you would expect to cost more.
Overall Value
For $1.90, this has to be one of the best value meals in Singapore. You get flavour, you get portion size, and you get the comfort of a classic hawker dish.
How Does This Compare to New Zealand Prices
Here is the question. Could we ever get something like this in New Zealand? A complete, proper meal, generous portion, flavourful, and under $2. In most cities, even the most affordable takeaway options are significantly more expensive. Some would say prices in New Zealand are fair, considering the cost of living. Others feel we are paying far too much for food.
I am curious to know what you think. What is the cheapest full meal available here you live, and does it compare to this one?
Final Thoughts
Finding a meal this affordable in Singapore feels almost unbelievable. Nguan Express 88 delivers flavour, comfort, and incredible value at one of the lowest prices you will find anywhere in the city.
If you love Singapore local food, heartland gems, budget meals, or you want to experience a true hawker classic, this is one meal you should try at least once.