Attitudes are changing, and people now see being health-conscious as less of a chore and more of a lifestyle. That’s great, but the market has been slow to catch up with affordable and tasty options. Consider McDonald’s, for example. A double cheeseburger from this fast food restaurant is priced at $3.50, while a grilled chicken salad costs $5.80. Ironically, the salad is neither as filling nor as tasty as the cheeseburger; we can only surmise that cost differences account for the disparity in prices.
But things needn’t be so. We’ve done a little sleuthing, and uncovered five places that offer healthy and tasty food in generous portions. At fairly affordable prices to boot.
Stuff’d
At this Mexican-Turkish takeaway chain that focuses on kebabs, burritos, quesadillas, “daily bowls” and tacos, prices start from a very affordable $5.30. The menu already has set items, but where’s the fun in that? Try customising your desired main instead. Just keep in mind that the costs stack up with the more ingredients you chuck in. Choose from a selection of beef, chicken or the Impossible meat and throw in some sauces, vegetables and additional toppings like guacamole for the perfect combo. For those who want to keep an eye on their macros, Stuff’d’s site offers a nutrition calculator for you to see just what exactly goes into your meal.
Stuff’d’s ingredients contain healthy oils and are packed with nutrients, fibre and protein. Gluten, dairy-free and vegan options are available too.
Maki-san
Sushi rolls, salad bowls and even tempura snacks can all be found at Maki-San. Prices start from $6.90 (for the mains) with the Lucky Roll and come to a halt at only $11.90 if you’re looking to go big with the Unicorn Magic. Tempura snacks start at $3.90 with the Kani Sticks and go up to $7.50 for the Ebi Fry, Otah or Soft Shell Crab. As always, feel free to customise your meal with add-ons, but keep in mind that it’s going to cost you extra. It’s also helpful to note that delivery prices differ from in-store prices.
With a selection of fresh vegetables, meats and beans along with healthier sauces such as extra virgin olive oil and yuzu sauce, this Japanese eatery is definitely worth a visit.
Dosirak
Dosirak specialises in Korean “Bibimbap” – a dish that’s primarily made up of rice and topped with vegetables, chilli paste and meat (usually beef). Their Bibimbaps come in three categories – meat, fish and vegan, with prices ranging from $7.90 to $12.90. If your wallet allows, you can also throw in an egg or mushrooms, or upgrading the base of your Bibimbap.
Get ready for a guilt-free meal as Dosirak only uses ingredients of the highest quality and everything is made in-house. For those that need a little more encouragement, every Bibimbap contains less than 500 calories and is Halal-certified.
Urban mix
As a build-your-own-bowl type of eatery, Urban Mix prides itself on allowing customers to “taste the world” in one little bowl of goodness. Inspired by a few of the most popular flavours and ingredients throughout the world, Urban Mix has made it somewhat possible for consumers to experience flavours from around the globe. Prices start at $9 (excluding add-ons, of course) for the Small Mix and $12 for the Regular Mix. For $9, customers can choose 1 base, half a portion of protein, one side salad, three toppings and one sauce. Paying $3 more entitles customers to the same contents as the Small Mix but with a full portion of meat and an extra side salad.
If you’re not in the mood to customise your dish, you can also take your pick of the six Signature Bowls, each with its own unique flavour. The only downside is that each of the signature bowls cost $15.
PROJECT Açaí
Singapore’s first dedicated açaí cafe chain, Project Açaí, prepares its bowls fresh every day, with loads of fruits and super foods such as chia seeds to go with their açaí smoothie base. With a variety of low-calorie, energising and nutritious options, this cafe aims to show that making healthier choices isn’t that hard.
Each açaí bowl comes in three sizes: handy ($6.80), medium ($9.30) and large ($14.50). Do note that certain flavours only come in set sizes. If you’re not feeling it, there’s always the smoothies that come in six flavours at $8.50 per cup. Project Açaí also offers vegan options such as vegan granola and a vegan cookie crumble topping.
Overall, it’s a great time-saver as well, so whether you’re pressed for time or have the insatiable cravings for a snack or dessert, we recommend you give Project Açaí a try.