Think of Orchard Road and the first word that comes to mind is probably “expensive”. Like many CBD folks, the OpenRice team (we’re located at Shaw Centre) also has the problem of finding good food for affordable prices. After months of eating out -some of us, years- we’ve finally picked out great bargains that don’t compromise on the quality. Read on to find out where to go for lunch for $6 and under in Orchard!

1. Chicken Rice

What Fiona says: This is truly a hidden find! Stowed away in a corner at Lucky Plaza Level 2, I was surprised to find this little space full of people during the lunch hour. Juicy, tender chicken thigh meat along with fragrant white rice (unlike the famous one at *cough* Far East *cough*); there’s only so much you can ask for in a plate of Chicken Rice ($4.50), right? If you’re around town looking for some good ol’ comfort food, this is it. Where to get it: Lucky Chicken Rice, Lucky Plaza, 304 Orchard Road #02-110 Singapore 238863

2. Salted Egg Chicken Rice

What Yi Wen says: If you’re craving for Salted Egg Pork Rib Rice or the like, I can tell you that at least three stalls on the same level in Far East Plaza have it. But of the three, my favourite has to be the one from Susan Chan Food, which has a long queue every day for its caifan. Squeeze past that and tell any staff that you want the Salted Egg Chicken or Pork Rice ($6) – I prefer the chicken. Then, wait for that humble but heavenly plate with golden salted egg yolk gravy slathered over your rice and that generous amount of boneless chicken on the side. It’s my go-to guilty pleasure! Where to get it: Susan Chan Food, Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Road #05-100/101 Singapore 228213

3. Fish Soup

What Jescelin says: This healthy Fish Soup is delicious, filling and costs just $5.50! Don’t be deceived by the seemingly bland soup – it actually packs a punch. The fish slices taste fresh while the fried egg bits adds an extra crunch! Where to get it: Cross Straits, Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Road #05-119 Singapore 228213

4. Chicken Katsu Curry with Rice

What Hillary says: Top up your $6 budget by a mere 80 cents and you can get this Chicken Katsu Curry with Rice ($6.80). Given the massive portion, it is great value for money. I thoroughly enjoyed the crispy and succulent chicken cutlet. Being a fried chicken lover, this dish has definitely gotten my stamp of approval! Where to get it: Goen Udon, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Road Level 4 Singapore 238877

5. Hokkien Mee

What Andrea says: If you’re starving and craving for local delights in Orchard, get this Hokkien Mee ($5.20). Served with piquant lime and fiery sambal, this large portion of noodles is tasty and authentic! Where to get it: Hokkien Mee, FoodRepublic, Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Road Level 4 Singapore 238877

6. Seafood Beehoon

What Rachel says: For people who are not familiar with Lucky Plaza, it might be hard to navigate your way to this shop. However, their Seafood Beehoon ($5) is definitely worth the trouble. Despite being slightly oily, the great flavour of the soup is what keeps you going back for more. The silky smooth beehoon is served with a generous amount of ingredients - fish, prawns and vegetables - making it the perfect treat for a rainy day! Where to get it: Fu Chun Xiao Chi, Lucky Plaza, 304 Orchard Road #B1-99/101 Singapore 238863

7. Vietnamese Chicken Chop Noodles

What Serena says:Thien Long Vietnamese serves really authentic Vietnamese food and a dish I’ll keep returning for is their Vietnamese Chicken Chop Noodles ($5), a dry version of pho that is served with lots of fresh cucumber and carrots and a small bowl of soup. Add your preferred amount of fish oil and chilli in, mix well and you’re good to go! The portion is really huge for its price too. Where to get it: Thien Long Vietnamese Food, Orchard Towers, 400 Orchard Road #04-08 Singapore 238875

8. Chicken Meat Fried with Basil Leaves & Rice

What Yen says: Ofira Amazing Thai Food is one hidden gem of Far East Plaza, serving good and cheap Thai dishes like Green Curry, Pad Thai, Tom Yum Seafood Soup. One of their most popular dishes you’ll see many others ordering is the Chicken Meat Fried with Basil Leaves & Rice ($5). This dish is not spicy at all, so it’s great for those who can’t take the heat! Where to get it: Ofira Amazing Thai Food, Far East Plaza, 14 Scotts Road #01-20 Singapore 228213

Written by Rachel Wong and Peh Yi Wen