NYC on a Budget: 9 Top Spots for Delicious and Affordable Eats

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Welcome to the Best Cheap Eats in NYC!

Welcome, food lovers! If you’re in New York City with a small budget but a big appetite, you’re in luck. The Big Apple may be famous for its high-end restaurants, but it’s also a treasure trove of affordable food spots. Whether you’re craving classic New York pizza, international flavors, or simply a good sandwich that doesn’t break the bank, NYC’s got something for you. Stick with me as I take you through some of NYC’s tastiest, budget-friendly bites. Let’s Dig In!

Where to Find Affordable Food in NYC

If you’re wondering where you can enjoy a tasty meal for less than $10 or $15, here’s the answer! New York has dozens of options across different neighborhoods, and this guide covers the best. From iconic delis to hidden taquerias, here’s where you’ll find New York’s most delicious deals. Spoiler: it’s all within reach, no fancy wallet required!

1. Joe’s Pizza – For the Perfect Slice

If you’ve been in NYC for more than a few hours, you’ve likely heard about Joe’s Pizza. This place is an icon, offering authentic New York slices that taste as good as they look. For just a few bucks, you can enjoy a slice of cheesy goodness with a perfectly crispy crust.

• Why Go: Affordable and classic NYC pizza, loved by locals and tourists alike.
• Pro Tip: Try the plain cheese slice to experience pure New York pizza magic. Want more? Grab a second slice without blowing your budget.

^{A cheesy slice at Joe’s – a classic NYC experience you can afford.}

2. Mamouns Falafel – Middle Eastern Flavor Bombs

Craving some Mediterranean flavors? Head to Mamouns Falafel for a quick and satisfying bite. Their falafel wraps are flavorful, filling, and under $10! This is the perfect spot for a healthy, affordable, plant-based meal.

• Why Go: Delicious, freshly made falafel that’s budget-friendly.
• Pro Tip: Grab some extra tahini sauce for an added kick. You won’t regret it!

^{Falafel wraps with all the trimmings – packed with flavor, easy on your wallet.}

3. Los Tacos No. 1 – Tacos That Taste Like Mexico City

In the mood for Mexican? Los Tacos No. 1 brings a taste of Mexico right to NYC. The tacos here are authentic, bursting with flavor, and perfect for budget-conscious foodies.

• Why Go: Authentic, quick, and affordable tacos with options for every taste.
• Pro Tip: Try the carne asada taco, but don’t skip the fresh salsa bar!

^{Freshly made tacos from Los Tacos No. 1 – so good, you’ll want seconds.}

4. Xi’an Famous Foods – Spicy, Savory Chinese Noodles

When it’s time to add a little spice to your life, Xi’an Famous Foods has got you covered. Their hand-pulled noodles are delicious, filling, and easy on your wallet, typically under $10. This is a great spot to explore unique flavors from northwestern China.

• Why Go: Bold, spicy flavors that warm you up in NYC’s colder months.
• Pro Tip: Order the Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles if you’re up for a flavor-packed adventure.

^{Xi’an’s hand-pulled noodles are packed with spices and satisfy your noodle cravings.}

5. Vanessa’s Dumpling House – Affordable Chinese Dumplings

Vanessa’s Dumpling House serves up fresh dumplings at budget-friendly prices. Whether you want a snack or a full meal, the dumplings and buns here are always crowd-pleasers.

• Why Go: Super affordable, fresh dumplings – perfect for a quick meal on the go.
• Pro Tip: Order a mix of fried and steamed dumplings for the best of both worlds.

^{Juicy dumplings at Vanessa’s – satisfying, affordable, and oh-so-tasty.}

6. The Halal Guys – Late Night Eats Done Right

Looking for a late-night option? The Halal Guys food truck on 53rd and 6th Avenue is an NYC classic. Their famous platters of chicken or lamb over rice are not only filling but also wallet-friendly.

• Why Go: Affordable, filling, and open late – perfect for post-night-out cravings.
• Pro Tip: Go easy on the red sauce – it’s seriously spicy!

^{A Halal Guys platter – hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day.}

7. B&H Dairy – Comforting Vegetarian Classics

This vegetarian-friendly spot offers comforting dishes that won’t break the bank. B&H Dairy is a slice of old-school New York, with simple, delicious meals that make you feel at home.

• Why Go: Delicious vegetarian options with a classic New York diner feel.
• Pro Tip: Try their pierogis – they’re filling, affordable, and so satisfying.

^{Warm up with The Tieso: 2 pierogi, 1 stuffed cabbage, and 1 potato pancake. A cozy, delicious treat at B&H Dairy!}

8. Shake Shack – Affordable Burgers with Big Flavor

Shake Shack might be a bit of a splurge compared to other spots on this list, but their ShackBurger is worth every penny. Craving a juicy burger? Shake Shack offers a more wallet-friendly option than many NYC burger joints—and yes, they’ve got veggie burgers too!

• Why Go: Delicious burgers, made fresh, with quality ingredients.
• Pro Tip: Skip the fries to keep it even more budget-friendly – or share a side with a friend.

^{A mouth-watering ShackBurger – tasty and a NYC favorite.}

9. Prince Street Pizza – Famous for the Pepperoni Square

Prince Street Pizza is famous for its square pepperoni slice, and once you take a bite, you’ll see why. It’s got crispy, spicy pepperoni, a deliciously thick crust, and it’s totally worth the visit.

• Why Go: Iconic pepperoni square slice that’s crunchy, spicy, and satisfying.
• Pro Tip: Go early to avoid the long line – it’s popular for a reason!

^{Prince Street’s pepperoni slice – as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy.}

Wrapping Up NYC’s Best Budget-Friendly Eats

There you have it! NYC may be one of the priciest cities in the world, but with relatively cheap eats ( inflation is real), you can still indulge in delicious flavors without maxing out your budget. Whether you’re biting into a gooey slice of pizza, savoring a spicy taco, or cozying up to a bowl of dumplings, there’s a flavor for every craving.

And if you’re on the hunt for more vegan or vegetarian options, don’t miss my blog post: 5 Best Apps for Vegan and Vegetarian Eats on the Go: Traveling Herbivores Unite! These apps are lifesavers for finding veggie-friendly bites wherever your wanderlust takes you.

Save it for later!

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

 -Beth