New York City offers incredible budget-friendly 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.
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!
New York offers thousands of dining options, but not all are affordable. We focused on:
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
NYC has plenty of affordable vegetarian-friendly restaurants, offering everything from falafel wraps to vegetarian dumplings. Here are a few great spots:
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:
NYC’s street food scene is unbeatable, and many food carts serve affordable, high-quality meals. Some of the best include:
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 |
Yes! While Times Square is known for overpriced tourist traps, a few budget-friendly gems exist nearby:
Yes! These food apps and websites can help you find great deals on budget-friendly meals:
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.
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.
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! 🍽️
Muffins: The Ultimate Guide to Baking, Flavors, and Recipes Muffins are one of the most…
Introduction to Dalgona Coffee Dalgona coffee took the world by storm, but what exactly is…
Part 1: Introduction to Dalgona The Sweet and Frothy Journey of Dalgona Dalgona is more…
Introduction Brownies are one of the most beloved desserts worldwide. But when it comes to…
Brownies – a universally adored dessert – have an incredible legacy. From their mysterious origins…
The Delightful World of Cheesecake Cheesecake is a universally loved dessert that has delighted taste…
View Comments