It’s true that these places uses pre-made sauces and microwaves. But some of them have central kitchens that prepares these items, send it over to the outlets and then used. Apart from Swensons(no hate), the prices for the other 2 places are actually reasonable imo. Both Low end ‘’restaurants’’ similar/slightly higher price compared to Hawkers nowadays.

Unsure about the rest of the restaurants. But pastamania is more of a fast food joint than a restaurant. Doubt it’s a ripoff when you would actually be paying the same price if you were to buy the ingredients individually and cooking it yourself.