Best Cheap Lunch Spots Near Me in NYC: Top Budget Eats

Looking for an affordable yet delicious lunch Spots Near Me in New York City? You’re in luck! This guide will take you through some of the best budget-friendly eateries across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Whether you’re craving pizza, tacos, noodles, or sandwiches, we’ve got you covered with top recommendations that won’t break the bank.

Part 1: Introduction for Best Cheap Lunch Spots Near Me in NYC

New York City is a food lover’s paradise, with countless restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. However, finding a satisfying meal at an affordable price can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Fortunately, hidden gems all over the city serve up tasty dishes that won’t empty your wallet.

This article highlights the best cheap lunch spots near me in NYC, covering multiple boroughs and diverse cuisines. From classic $1 slices to filling tacos and steaming hot noodle bowls, you’ll find everything you need for a delicious yet budget-friendly meal. Whether you’re a local looking for your next lunch break destination or a visitor wanting to experience NYC’s culinary scene without spending a fortune, this guide has got you covered!

How We Selected the Best Cheap Lunch Spots in NYC

Criteria for Finding Budget-Friendly Eateries

New York offers thousands of dining options, but not all are affordable. We focused on:

• Price: Meals averaging between $5 and $15 per person.
• Quality: Highly rated food based on reviews from locals and tourists.
• Speed: Quick service for a convenient lunch break.
• Accessibility: Easy-to-reach locations, including food trucks and small eateries.
• Diversity: Options for different cuisines, including vegetarian and vegan choices.

Why NYC is a Great Place for Budget Food Lovers

New York’s diverse food scene makes it one of the best places in the world to find affordable, high-quality meals. Thanks to food trucks, small family-run restaurants, and quick-service eateries, you can enjoy everything from New York-style pizza to authentic Asian street food at an unbeatable price.

Part 2: Best Cheap Lunch Spots in Manhattan

Manhattan might be known for its upscale dining, but it’s also home to some of the best affordable eats in NYC. From classic New York-style pizza to flavorful Mexican tacos and hearty noodle bowls, you’ll find plenty of delicious options that won’t break the bank. Here’s a roundup of the best cheap lunch spots in Manhattan, where you can grab a satisfying meal for under $15!

Joe’s Pizza – The Iconic New York Slice

When it comes to New York-style pizza, Joe’s Pizza is an institution. This legendary spot has been serving thin-crust, perfectly crispy slices since 1975. The best part? A classic cheese slice costs around $3.50, making it one of the most affordable yet satisfying lunch options in the city.

• Location: Multiple locations, including 7 Carmine St, Greenwich Village
• What to Order: Classic cheese slice or fresh mozzarella slice
• Why It’s Great: Fast service, high-quality ingredients, and an authentic NYC pizza experience

Los Tacos No. 1 – Authentic Mexican Tacos

If you’re craving authentic street-style tacos, look no further than Los Tacos No. 1. This no-frills taqueria serves some of the best tacos in NYC, packed with flavorful meats, fresh toppings, and handmade tortillas.

• Location: 75 9th Ave (Chelsea Market) & 229 W 43rd St (Times Square)
• What to Order: Carne asada or adobada tacos
• Why It’s Great: Affordable prices (tacos start at $4.50 each), fresh ingredients, and fast service

Xi’an Famous Foods – Spicy Hand-Pulled Noodles

For a filling and affordable lunch, Xi’an Famous Foods is a must-visit. This Chinese eatery specializes in hand-pulled noodles and flavorful cumin-spiced lamb dishes that pack a punch. Their signature dish, Spicy Cumin Lamb Hand-Ripped Noodles, is an explosion of flavors at just $11.50.

• Location: 45 Bayard St (Chinatown) & 81 St. Marks Pl (East Village)
• What to Order: Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles or Stewed Pork Burger
• Why It’s Great: Huge portions, bold flavors, and under $12 meals

Murray’s Cheese Bar – Affordable Gourmet Grilled Cheese

Sometimes, nothing beats a classic grilled cheese sandwich, and Murray’s Cheese Bar delivers just that. This spot offers a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and comforting sandwich for around $10. You can also customize it with add-ons like caramelized onions and smoked ham.

• Location: 242 Bleecker St, Greenwich Village
• What to Order: Classic grilled cheese or the Murray’s Melt
• Why It’s Great: High-quality cheese, budget-friendly lunch specials, and cozy atmosphere

Saigon Shack – Affordable Vietnamese Banh Mi & Pho

For a budget-friendly yet satisfying Vietnamese meal, Saigon Shack is a top pick. Their banh mi sandwiches start at $8, and a steaming bowl of pho costs around $12. The portions are generous, making it a fantastic deal for the price.

• Location: 114 MacDougal St, Greenwich Village
• What to Order: Classic Banh Mi or Pho Bo
• Why It’s Great: Fresh flavors, quick service, and large portions

Mamouns Falafel – NYC’s Best Cheap Falafel Spot

If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly cheap lunch, Mamouns Falafel has got you covered. Their falafel sandwich costs just $5, making it one of the most affordable meals in the city. Add a side of hummus, and you have a delicious, budget-friendly Middle Eastern feast.

• Location: 119 MacDougal St, Greenwich Village
• What to Order: Falafel sandwich or shawarma platter
• Why It’s Great: Healthy, filling, and one of the best deals in NYC

Part 3: Best Cheap Lunch Spots in Brooklyn

Brooklyn’s food scene is just as exciting as Manhattan’s, but with a more laid-back vibe and plenty of affordable eats. Whether you’re in the mood for New York-style pizza, Middle Eastern falafel, or massive Italian sandwiches, you’ll find something delicious that won’t burn a hole in your wallet. Let’s explore the best cheap lunch spots in Brooklyn that offer amazing flavors at unbeatable prices!

L’industrie Pizzeria – Top-Tier Pizza at an Affordable Price

Brooklyn is home to some of the best pizza in NYC, and L’industrie Pizzeria is a hidden gem that serves thin, crispy, and perfectly charred slices without the sky-high prices.

• Location: 254 S 2nd St, Williamsburg
• What to Order: Classic Margherita slice ($4) or Burrata slice ($5)
• Why It’s Great: Handcrafted dough, fresh ingredients, and generous portions

Falafel Oasis – A Budget-Friendly Middle Eastern Feast

For a healthy, filling, and inexpensive lunch, Falafel Oasis is a fantastic choice. Their falafel wraps start at just $7, and they’re packed with fresh veggies, hummus, and tahini sauce.

• Location: 68 Jay St, DUMBO
• What to Order: Falafel wrap ($7) or Hummus plate ($9)
• Why It’s Great: Affordable, delicious, and vegetarian-friendly

Defonte’s Sandwich Shop – Massive Italian Sandwiches on a Budget

A Brooklyn institution, Defonte’s has been serving oversized, flavorful sandwiches since 1922. If you’re looking for a hearty lunch that’ll keep you full all day, this is the place to go.

• Location: 379 Columbia St, Red Hook
• What to Order: Hot Roast Beef & Mozzarella sandwich ($12) or Eggplant Parm hero ($10)
• Why It’s Great: Huge portions, high-quality ingredients, and classic NYC deli vibes

Noodle Pudding – The Best Budget Italian Food in Brooklyn

If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian food without the hefty price tag, Noodle Pudding is a fantastic choice. Their homemade pasta dishes start at $11, offering a cozy and affordable dining experience.

• Location: 38 Henry St, Brooklyn Heights
• What to Order: Spaghetti Carbonara ($11) or Penne Arrabbiata ($10)
• Why It’s Great: Authentic flavors, homemade pasta, and generous portions

Arepera Guacuco – Brooklyn’s Best Venezuelan Arepas

For a delicious, gluten-free, and budget-friendly lunch, Arepera Guacuco is a must-visit. Their stuffed arepas, made with cornmeal dough and filled with meats, cheese, and avocado, are both tasty and affordable.

• Location: 44 Irving Ave, Bushwick
• What to Order: Pabellón Arepa ($10) or Reina Pepiada ($9)
• Why It’s Great: Unique flavors, filling portions, and great value for money

Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos – Authentic Tacos at a Low Price

For some of the best and cheapest tacos in Brooklyn, Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos is a hidden gem. This no-frills spot serves freshly made tortillas, and tacos cost as little as $3 each!

• Location: 271 Starr St, Bushwick
• What to Order: Chicken or Carnitas Tacos ($3 each)
• Why It’s Great: Handmade tortillas, authentic flavors, and unbeatable prices

Part 4: Best Cheap Lunch Spots in Queens

Queens is the most diverse borough in New York City, which means you’ll find some of the best authentic, budget-friendly eats from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Mexican tortas, Thai street food, or Venezuelan arepas, Queens has plenty of delicious and affordable options. Let’s dive into the best cheap lunch spots in Queens!

Tortas Neza – Giant, Flavor-Packed Mexican Sandwiches

If you’re really hungry and want a meal that will keep you full all day, Tortas Neza is the place to go. Their massive Mexican sandwiches, stuffed with meat, cheese, and avocado, are an incredible deal.

• Location: 111-03 Roosevelt Ave, Corona
• What to Order: Torta Cubana ($14) or Torta de Milanesa ($12)
• Why It’s Great: Huge portions, fresh ingredients, and authentic flavors

SriPraPhai – The Best Budget Thai Lunch Spot in NYC

For a taste of authentic Thai street food without breaking the bank, SriPraPhai is a local favorite. Their lunch specials start at just $9, offering generous portions of Thai classics.

• Location: 64-13 39th Ave, Woodside
• What to Order: Pad Thai ($10) or Green Curry ($9)
• Why It’s Great: Huge portions, rich flavors, and affordable lunch specials

Arepa Lady – Queens’ Best Venezuelan Arepas

A long-time food cart favorite turned brick-and-mortar restaurant, Arepa Lady serves some of the best Venezuelan arepas in NYC. These cornmeal pockets stuffed with cheese, meats, and avocado are a tasty and budget-friendly meal.

• Location: 77-02 Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights
• What to Order: Reina Pepiada Arepa ($9) or Cheese Arepa ($7)
• Why It’s Great: Unique flavors, filling portions, and a true hidden gem

Rincon Criollo – Affordable Cuban Comfort Food

For a flavorful and satisfying Cuban lunch, Rincon Criollo is a fantastic choice. Their portions are huge, and their prices are more than reasonable for the quality you get.

• Location: 40-09 Junction Blvd, Corona
• What to Order: Ropa Vieja ($12) or Cuban Sandwich ($8)
• Why It’s Great: Authentic Cuban flavors, affordable pricing, and friendly atmosphere

Xi’an Famous Foods – Spicy, Hand-Pulled Noodles on a Budget

Just like their Manhattan locations, the Xi’an Famous Foods in Queens delivers bold, spicy flavors and hand-pulled noodles at a great price. Their noodle bowls are big enough to share, making them an even better deal!

• Location: 41-10 Main St, Flushing
• What to Order: Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles ($11) or Liang Pi Cold Noodles ($9)
• Why It’s Great: Authentic Xi’an cuisine, flavorful dishes, and generous portions

King Souvlaki – The Best Greek Street Food in Queens

For a quick, delicious, and cheap Greek lunch, King Souvlaki is the place to go. Their grilled meats and pita sandwiches are packed with flavor and come at an unbeatable price.

• Location: 31st St & 31st Ave, Astoria (Food Truck)
• What to Order: Chicken Souvlaki Pita ($7) or Gyro Wrap ($8)
• Why It’s Great: High-quality ingredients, fast service, and an affordable meal

Part 5: Best Cheap Lunch Spots in The Bronx & Staten Island

While Manhattan and Brooklyn often steal the spotlight, The Bronx and Staten Island offer some of the best budget-friendly food in NYC. Whether you’re craving classic NYC-style pizza, authentic Italian dishes, or homestyle Latin American food, these boroughs have plenty of hidden gems that serve up delicious meals for under $15. Let’s explore the best cheap lunch spots in The Bronx and Staten Island!

Best Cheap Lunch Spots in The Bronx

Patricia’s Pizza – Authentic, Budget-Friendly Italian Food

For wood-fired, thin-crust pizza at an affordable price, Patricia’s Pizza is a must-visit. This family-run spot serves high-quality Italian dishes without the hefty Manhattan price tag.

• Location: 1082 Morris Park Ave, The Bronx
• What to Order: Margherita Pizza ($12) or Pasta alla Vodka ($13)
• Why It’s Great: Fresh ingredients, large portions, and an authentic Italian vibe

Taqueria Tlaxcalli – The Bronx’s Best Cheap Tacos

Looking for authentic, flavorful tacos without breaking the bank? Taqueria Tlaxcalli serves some of the best tacos in The Bronx, using homemade tortillas and fresh ingredients.

• Location: 2103 Starling Ave, The Bronx
• What to Order: Al Pastor Tacos ($3.50 each) or Carne Asada Burrito ($10)
• Why It’s Great: Handmade tortillas, affordable prices, and bold flavors

Real Madrid – Homestyle Spanish Comfort Food

For affordable, filling, and flavorful Spanish cuisine, Real Madrid is a local gem. They serve generous portions of classic Spanish dishes, perfect for a satisfying lunch.

• Location: 5704 Broadway, The Bronx
• What to Order: Paella Valenciana ($14) or Pollo Guisado ($12)
• Why It’s Great: Authentic flavors, huge portions, and unbeatable prices

Best Cheap Lunch Spots in Staten Island

Enoteca Maria – Home-Cooked Meals from Around the World

At Enoteca Maria, grandmothers from different cultures take turns cooking traditional dishes from their homelands, making it one of the most unique restaurants in NYC. The meals are delicious, authentic, and reasonably priced.

• Location: 27 Hyatt St, Staten Island
• What to Order: Rotating daily specials (around $12 per dish)
• Why It’s Great: Authentic, home-cooked meals with a global touch

Denino’s Pizzeria – Staten Island’s Best Budget-Friendly Pizza

If you want classic NYC pizza without the Manhattan prices, Denino’s Pizzeria is a great choice. Their thin-crust, crispy pies are known for their amazing flavor and affordability.

• Location: 524 Port Richmond Ave, Staten Island
• What to Order: Plain Cheese Pizza ($12) or Meatball Parm Hero ($10)
• Why It’s Great: Perfectly crisp pizza, high-quality ingredients, and great prices

Lakruwana – Affordable Sri Lankan Cuisine

For something a little different, Lakruwana serves authentic Sri Lankan food at budget-friendly prices. Their buffet lunch option makes it a fantastic deal for anyone looking to try multiple dishes.

• Location: 668 Bay St, Staten Island
• What to Order: Kottu Roti ($12) or Rice & Curry Combo ($10)
• Why It’s Great: Unique flavors, generous portions, and affordable meal combos

Part 6: Tips for Finding the Best Cheap Lunch Spots in NYC

New York City is packed with affordable, hidden-gem eateries, but knowing where and how to find them can save you time and money. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these tips will help you discover the best budget-friendly restaurants in the city without sacrificing flavor or quality.

How to Find Hidden Food Gems in NYC

Explore Food Trucks and Street Vendors

Some of NYC’s cheapest and tastiest meals come from food trucks and carts. From taco trucks in Brooklyn to the legendary Halal Guys in Manhattan, street food is not only convenient but also affordable and delicious.

• Look for highly rated food trucks on Google Maps or Yelp.
• Follow NYC food cart reviews on social media.
• Check out busy vendors—if there’s a long line, it’s usually worth it!

Follow Local Food Bloggers and Social Media Pages

NYC has a huge food blogging scene, with Instagram influencers, TikTok foodies, and YouTube vloggers constantly sharing the best cheap eats. Some great resources include:

• Eater NYC for budget-friendly restaurant lists.
• The Infatuation NYC for detailed, honest reviews.
• CheapEatsNYC on Instagram for daily deals and hidden gems.

Check Happy Hour Deals and Lunch Specials

Many restaurants offer weekday lunch specials, where you can grab a meal at a fraction of the usual price. Some places also have happy hour menus with discounted small plates and appetizers.

• Best Days for Deals: Monday–Thursday (weekends are usually full price).
• Timing: Most lunch specials run from 11 AM to 3 PM.
• Where to Look: Restaurants in business districts like Midtown and Downtown often cater to office workers with affordable lunch deals.

Best Times to Get Cheap Lunch Deals

• Avoid Peak Hours (12 PM – 2 PM): Many restaurants raise prices or have long wait times during lunch rushes. Try eating a little earlier or later.
• Go for Late Lunches: Some places discount food after the lunch rush to clear inventory.
• Visit During Restaurant Week: NYC Restaurant Week happens twice a year and offers fixed-price lunch specials at top-rated spots.

How to Eat Well on a Budget in NYC

• Stick to Ethnic Neighborhoods: Areas like Jackson Heights (Queens), Chinatown (Manhattan), and Arthur Avenue (The Bronx) have authentic and affordable food.
• Skip Tourist Traps: Avoid overpriced spots in Times Square, Fifth Avenue, and near major landmarks.
• Use Food Apps: Apps like Too Good To Go, MealPal, and Yelp Deals offer great discounts on meals.

Part 7: FAQs – Answering Common Questions About Cheap Lunch in NYC

New Yorkers and visitors alike often have questions about finding the best cheap lunch spots near me in NYC. Below, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions to help you enjoy delicious, budget-friendly meals without the hassle.

What are the best cheap lunch spots in NYC for vegetarians?

NYC has plenty of affordable vegetarian-friendly restaurants, offering everything from falafel wraps to vegetarian dumplings. Here are a few great spots:

• Superiority Burger (East Village): Famous for its budget-friendly vegetarian burgers.
• Mamouns Falafel (Greenwich Village): Classic falafel sandwiches for just $5.
• Xi’an Famous Foods (Multiple Locations): Their hand-ripped noodles and spicy tofu dishes are great vegetarian options.

Where can I find the cheapest pizza in New York?

New York is famous for its dollar slice joints, where you can grab a quick, cheesy slice for just a few bucks. Some of the best budget pizza spots include:

• 2 Bros Pizza (Multiple Locations): One of the most well-known $1 slice chains.
• Joe’s Pizza (Greenwich Village): Higher quality, but still affordable at around $3.50 per slice.
• L’industrie Pizzeria (Brooklyn): A hidden gem with delicious slices under $5.

What’s the best food cart for a budget-friendly lunch in NYC?

NYC’s street food scene is unbeatable, and many food carts serve affordable, high-quality meals. Some of the best include:

• The Halal Guys (Midtown): Their chicken over rice is a filling meal for about $9.
• King Souvlaki (Astoria): Amazing Greek souvlaki wraps for around $7–$8.
• Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos (Brooklyn): Authentic $3 tacos from a local tortilleria.

How much does a budget lunch in NYC cost?

A cheap lunch in NYC typically costs between $5 and $15, depending on the meal and location. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Type of Food	Average Price Range
Pizza Slice	$1 – $5
Tacos (per taco)	$3 – $5
Sandwich or Wrap	$7 – $12
Noodle Bowls	$10 – $15
Rice & Meat Plates	$8 – $12

Can I find cheap lunch options near Times Square?

Yes! While Times Square is known for overpriced tourist traps, a few budget-friendly gems exist nearby:

• Los Tacos No. 1 (Times Square Location): Authentic Mexican tacos starting at $4.50 each.
• Margon (46th St): A hidden Cuban eatery serving affordable lunch platters.
• Xi’an Famous Foods (Near Bryant Park): Hearty hand-pulled noodle bowls for under $12.

Are there any apps or websites to help me find cheap eats in NYC?

Yes! These food apps and websites can help you find great deals on budget-friendly meals:

• Too Good To Go: Buy discounted surplus food from restaurants at super-low prices.
• Yelp & Google Maps: Check reviews, price filters, and user recommendations.
• NYC Food Bloggers (Instagram/TikTok): Follow @CheapEatsNYC and @NYCFoodie for daily deals.

That’s it for our ultimate guide to the best cheap lunch spots near me in NYC! Whether you’re looking for a $1 slice, a delicious taco, or a hearty bowl of noodles, NYC has plenty of affordable food options to explore.

Conclusion: The Best Cheap Lunch Spots Near Me in NYC

New York City may be known for its high cost of living, but when it comes to food, there are plenty of budget-friendly gems waiting to be discovered. From $1 pizza slices in Manhattan to hearty Mexican tortas in Queens, this city offers incredible cheap eats across all five boroughs.

Whether you’re in the mood for hand-pulled noodles, authentic street tacos, crispy falafel, or a giant deli sandwich, NYC has something for every craving—and every budget. By exploring food trucks, hole-in-the-wall eateries, and ethnic neighborhoods, you’ll unlock some of the best flavors in the city without spending a fortune.

Final Tips for Eating Well on a Budget in NYC

• Avoid tourist traps and head to local neighborhoods for authentic, cheaper meals.
• Follow food bloggers and apps to find daily deals and hidden gems.
• Take advantage of lunch specials and food carts, which often have the best prices.
• Try new cuisines! Some of the best cheap eats come from international street food vendors.

With a little exploration and these insider tips, you’ll never have to ask, “Where can I find a cheap lunch near me?” again. NYC is a food lover’s paradise, and with so many options, you’ll always find something delicious that won’t break the bank.

Now, go out and enjoy the best cheap eats NYC has to offer! 🍽️