In a recent social media stir, a diner vented his frustrations over the cost of his chicken rice meal, arguing that the $5.50 he shelled out was exorbitant.

However, many Singaporeans quickly came to the dish's defense, asserting that the price is not only reasonable but, in fact, a great deal considering today’s cost of living.

The diner shared a snapshot of his meal, which featured tender chicken, flavorful rice, slices of tofu, a clear broth, and crunchy cucumber.

His post on the Complaint Singapore page sparked quite a debate on Wednesday, December 11. '$5.50 for this? Expensive? The cost of living in Singapore is really getting out of hand!' he lamented.

Contrary to his complaint, numerous commenters chimed in to point out that his meal was not only fairly priced but could be considered cheap.

One netizen noted that the addition of tofu, typically priced between $0.70 and $1, added significant value to the meal. Another suggested that the portion size of rice appeared generous, implying that the diner might have even ordered extras. 'Seems fair, la,' one commenter replied, perhaps reflecting the general consensus.

The discussion took a more blunt turn when another user remarked, 'If this is considered expensive, then you might as well cook for yourself.'

Some commenters found it hard to believe the diner’s perspective, with one asking rhetorically if he had 'been living under a rock for the past 10 years.'

Several users provided context by comparing prices.

One mentioned that their local food court already charges $9 for a plate of chicken rice, indicating the ongoing inflationary pressures affecting dining out. Another commenter shared their experience, noting that a similar meal in Australia costs around $25, while someone else remarked on the exorbitant price of $30 for the same meal in Doha, Qatar.

In a humorous comparison, one commenter from Malaysia chimed in, 'We pay 10 to 14 ringgit for chicken rice only. So don’t complain lah!'