Rising Prices, Same Appetite: How Singaporeans Are Still Eating Out (Smartly)

We all know how much Singaporeans love to eat, but with prices creeping up everywhere, even our famously foodie nation is rethinking the way we dine. According to YouGov’s Singapore Dining Out Report 2025, four in five locals still eat out at least once a month, yet about a third say they’re doing it less often than a year ago. And the reason? Rising costs, lah.

When Eating Out Starts To Feel Boujee

Nearly nine in ten Singapore diners say restaurant prices have climbed over the past year, with older generations feeling the pinch most. For many, dining out has shifted from a weekly ritual to an occasional treat. Two-thirds of those who are cutting back cite the higher cost of living and a desire to save money, proving that while our love for food hasn’t changed, our wallets are calling the shots.

Smarter Spending, Same Foodie Spirit

Still, cutting back doesn’t mean giving up entirely. In true Singaporean fashion, we’re just getting smarter about how we spend. Around 65% of diners have adjusted their dining habits by opting for cheaper spots, skipping drinks or desserts, and hunting down deals like pros. Discounts, loyalty perks and “Buy One, Get One Free” promos are the new holy trinity of dining motivation, with two-thirds of locals saying they’d eat out more often if the offers are right.

Image credit: Urban List

Scrolling For Deals Is The New Hobby

Of course, where else would we find these deals but on our feeds? Nearly two-thirds of Singapore diners discover restaurant promos on social media with TikTok and Instagram becoming our new makan scouts. Word of mouth still counts, but let’s be real: if it’s not trending online, did it even happen?

Loyalty programs are also having their moment. One in three Singaporeans has used one in the past year, and eight in ten say a good rewards scheme could win them back for seconds. Some diners (mostly Gen Zs and Millennials) are even open to paying a small monthly fee for perks at their favourite spots. Think members-only menus, free birthday desserts, or extra fries on the house.

Fast Food, Forever Love

And despite all the price hikes, our top dining picks remain comfortingly familiar. McDonald’s still reigns supreme as Singapore’s most-considered restaurant, followed by KFC, Burger King, Subway, and our local icon, Ya Kun Kaya Toast. Because at the end of the day, whether it’s a Sausage McMuffin or a slice of kaya toast, Singaporeans will always find a way to eat well and save smart while doing it.

Looking for more? Check out:

• Best Hawker Centres In Singapore For Budget-Friendly Eats
• Sink Your Teeth Into The Best Steakhouses In Singapore
• Where To Find The Best Scoops Of Ice Cream In Singapore

Main image credit: Singapore Tourism Board | Website