Whether you’re cramming for exams or just trying to make it through the week without breaking the bank, finding cheap eats on campus is a skill every Curtin student needs to master. Thankfully, we’ve got plenty of spots to grab a meal that won’t have your wallet crying. Here’s your ultimate guide to budget-friendly eating around campus, with a few off-campus gems thrown in for good measure.
1. Simply Delicious
Let’s start with a Curtin classic, Simply Delicious. Tucked away in the Arcade, Simply Delish has hot chips (a must), but the real star here is their affordable meal options. You can get a Bahn Mi for under $10, and if you’re in the mood for something hot, their ‘heat and eat’ meals won’t set you back too much either. They’ll heat it up for you if you ask, or you can take them to the guild kitchen to pop it in the microwave yourself! The portions are good and the budget options make it so worth it!
2. The Tav
Now, The Tav isn’t just for a Friday arvo visit —it’s also home to some seriously good budget bites. Their student deals are legendary. Think $14 cheeseburgers with chips, and $15 weekly pasta specials that’ll fill you up without draining your account. The outdoor seating is perfect when you just want to chill, and there’s often some live music or events going on to make it even more fun, giving you even more value for money!
3. Guild Café Central
Guild member or not, Guild Cafe Central has you covered. From Monday to Friday, they have daily deals where the specialty dish of the day is only $8.50. The range of this deal is unbeatable too, with specials from Birria Tacos to Nasi Lemak (yum!), there’s options for whatever you are craving. It’s perfect when you’re rushing between classes and need something quick and affordable. Being a Guild outlet, you can also access the student discount with your guild registered student card!
4. Subway
When you’re craving something specific, the newly opened campus Subway is the spot to hit. Located by the John Curtin Gallery, it’s known for fresh cookies and subs tailored to exactly what you’re craving. You can grab a 6 inch, cookies and drink combo for $12, a Pizza melt for $7.75 and wraps for under $10. With endless combinations and seating outside, it’s the perfect place for a quick and cheap bite!
Bonus: Off-campus pick…
Just across the road from campus, Waterford Plaza offers some good off-campus eats without going far. There’s a Zambreros, Grilld, Chilliz, Varsity, Nandos, KFC, Maccas and more. You could even grab some bread and hummus, or maybe a ready-to-heat meal from Coles, and heat it up back at campus in a Guild microwave.
Eating on a student budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring or bland food. With so many options both on and off campus, you can keep your stomach full without burning through your savings. Whether you’re in the mood for hot food, tacos or a sub, campus has got you covered on a budget. So, next time hunger strikes, try one of these spots and enjoy a tasty meal that’s kind to your bank account.
