Eating out in Singapore can add up quickly, especially when drinks inflate the bill. With a few smart habits, you can keep your dining costs down without missing out on a good meal. Here’s how to limit spending on paid beverages and still enjoy your time out.
Make requesting “iced water” or “plain water” your default action
When the server comes to take your order, make it a reflex to ask for plain or iced water. Most places in Singapore offer it for free or at a minimal cost, so it’s an easy way to skip pricier drinks. It’s refreshing, keeps you hydrated, and doesn’t dent your wallet.
Asking for water right away also sets the tone for the meal. You’re less likely to be tempted by the menu’s fancy drinks if you’ve already got a glass of water in front of you. Plus, it’s a healthy choice that pairs well with any dish, from spicy laksa to greasy char kway teow.
If you’re worried about seeming cheap, don’t be. Requesting water is super common, and servers are used to it. Just ask politely, and you’re good to go. Some places even have self-service water stations, making it even easier to stick to this habit.
If ordering coffee/tea at a hawker centre or coffeeshop, opt for the basic ‘kopi-o’ or ‘teh-o’
When you’re at a hawker centre or coffeeshop, go for the classic kopi-o (black coffee) or teh-o (black tea) if you want a hot drink. These are usually the cheapest options on the menu, often costing less than a dollar or two. They’re simple but still pack the caffeine kick you might need.
Unlike fancier drinks with condensed milk or extra syrups, kopi-o and teh-o keep things straightforward and budget-friendly. You still get that authentic local flavour without paying extra for add-ons. If you prefer it sweet, you can ask for a bit of sugar without driving up the price too much.
It’s also worth noting that these drinks are a staple for a reason. They’re quick to make, widely available, and perfect for a casual meal. Pair your kopi-o with a plate of chicken rice, and you’ve got a satisfying, low-cost combo.
Avoid ordering drinks immediately upon sitting down
When you sit down at a restaurant, don’t rush to order a drink right away. It’s easy to instinctively pick something off the menu, but hold off until you’ve started eating. You might find that plain water or the food itself is enough to keep you satisfied.
Waiting a bit also gives you time to assess how thirsty you actually are. Sometimes, you’re just craving something cold at first, but after a few bites, you’re fine with water. This small pause can save you from spending on a drink you didn’t really need.
Plus, delaying your drink order helps you stay mindful of your budget. If you’re eyeing a pricey juice or soda, take a moment to think if it’s worth it. More often than not, you’ll realise water does the job just fine.
If dining with others, suggest sharing a pot of tea or a large jug of water
Eating out with friends or family? Suggest splitting a pot of tea, which is common in Chinese restaurants, or a large jug of water instead of everyone ordering individual drinks. It’s way cheaper and still keeps everyone hydrated.
A pot of tea, like jasmine or Chinese tea, usually costs less than individual soft drinks and can serve multiple people. It’s a great way to enjoy a warm drink without breaking the bank. Similarly, a jug of water or iced tea (if free refills are available) can go a long way for the table.
This approach also makes dining feel more communal. Sharing a pot or jug encourages conversation and keeps things relaxed. Just check with your group first to make sure everyone’s on board, and you’re set for a budget-friendly meal.
Check if the restaurant offers free refills for plain water or basic iced tea
Before ordering, find out if the restaurant offers free refills on plain water or basic iced tea. Some places, especially cafes or casual dining spots, have this perk, which can save you from buying extra drinks. A quick question to the server can clarify this.
If refills are available, stick to those options. You can sip on iced tea or water throughout your meal without worrying about racking up costs. It’s especially handy if you’re having a long chat over dinner and need something to drink.
Even if refills aren’t free, some restaurants charge a flat, low fee for unlimited water or tea. Compare that to the price of a single soda or juice, and it’s usually a much better deal. Knowing the restaurant’s policy helps you make a smart choice.
Mentally calculate the percentage cost
Drinks can sneakily inflate your bill, so do a quick mental math check. A $3-$5 drink might not sound like much, but if your meal costs $10, that’s 30-50% extra on your total. When you see it as a percentage, it’s easier to rethink that order.
For example, if you’re grabbing a $6 hawker meal, a $2 drink bumps your cost up by a third. Compare that to free water or a $1 kopi-o, and the savings are clear. This trick helps you put the drink’s price in perspective and decide if it’s worth it.
Over time, skipping those pricey drinks adds up. If you eat out a few times a week, cutting out a $4 drink each time could save you $50 or more a month. That’s money you can use for something else, like a treat or savings.
If you really crave a non-water beverage, consider buying it from a convenience store or supermarket
Sometimes, you just want a fizzy soda or a sweet iced tea. Instead of ordering it at the restaurant, where markups are high, grab it from a nearby convenience store or supermarket after your meal. You’ll pay way less for the same drink.
For example, a can of cola at a restaurant might cost $3, but you can get it for $1.50 or less at a 7-Eleven. If you’re dining near a mall or HDB estate, there’s likely a store within walking distance. Pop in after eating to satisfy your craving on the cheap.
This hack works especially well if you’re not in a rush. You can enjoy your meal with free water, then treat yourself to a drink to sip on the way home. It’s a small compromise that keeps your dining bill low while still letting you indulge.
Summary
Saving on drinks when eating out is all about small, smart choices. By defaulting to plain water, choosing budget-friendly kopi-o or teh-o, waiting before ordering drinks, sharing pots or jugs, checking for free refills, calculating drink costs, and buying beverages from stores instead, you can enjoy meals out without overspending. These habits are easy to adopt and make a big difference to your wallet over time.
Why did the frugal diner stick to water? Because it was the pour-fect way to save!