Living on a student budget in Bloemfontein doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy great food! Whether you’re studying at UFS, Bloem offers plenty of affordable meal options, weekly restaurant specials, cheap butcheries, and smart student-card food hacks. Here’s your ultimate guide to student-friendly food deals in Bloemfontein.

1. Weekly Restaurant Specials in Bloemfontein

Monday

• Bossa – Burger MondayEnjoy a quality burger for only R85. Ideal for a chilled start to the week.

Wednesday Specials

• Steers – 2 Burgers for R59.90
• Hungry Lion – Winglets Combo from R49
• John Dory’s – Half-Price Sushi Wednesdays

Thursday Specials

• Hungry Lion – Big Bucket DealsChicken buckets from around R75—perfect for groups.
• Copper Clover – 200 g Steak or Schnitzel for R99

2. Best Butcheries for Cheap Meat in Bloemfontein

Buying meat together with roommates or friends is one of the smartest saving moves.

Highveld Butchery – Affordable and close to Loch Logan Waterfront

• Watloo Meat & Chicken (CBD) – Known for low prices and fresh stock
• Carcass & Cleaver (Willows) – Popular for student braai packs

 Tip: Buy in groups, split the cost, and meal-prep for the week.

3. Affordable On-Campus Meal Options (UFS)

At UFS, you can use your student card at several food outlets, helping you manage your budget with ease.

• Crouching Tiger & Hidden Dragon (Thakaneng Bridge)
• King Pie (UFS)
• Food Zone (UFS)
• Mamma’s Kitchen (Campus)Part of the UFS student card meal system:

The UFS Fundi Merchant List provides all spots where your student card works:

4. Bonus: Extra Budget Tips for Bloem Students

• • Orchid House (low-cost entry)Enjoy Free/Cheap Activities

  Kings Park (free)

• Use Your Student Card EverywhereMany Bloem shops give student discounts—always ask!
• Meal Prep & Cook TogetherIt cuts costs by up to 40%.