New York City is a food lover’s paradise. With thousands of restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat. But, what if you’re on a budget?
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious meal in the city that never sleeps. In fact, some of the best restaurants in New York City are affordable, serving up mouth-watering dishes that won’t leave your wallet empty.
From hole-in-the-wall eateries to trendy cafes, there is no shortage of options for those seeking a delicious meal on a budget. You can find everything from classic New York-style pizza to international cuisine that will transport your taste buds around the world.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these affordable restaurants offer an authentic taste of the city that won’t disappoint.
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring some of the best affordable restaurants in New York City. We’ve scoured the city to find the hidden gems that serve up delicious food without breaking the bank.
So, if you’re looking for a great meal that won’t leave you penniless, read on. We’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best affordable restaurants in New York City.
1. LOS MARISCOS
LOS MARISCOS is a bustling Mexican seafood restaurant that offers a great selection of tacos, ceviche, and shrimp cocktails.
The freshly made tortillas and house hot sauces are a must-try.
Although the service can be slow during peak hours, the delicious food and affordable prices make it worth the wait.
The ambiance is casual and beachy, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner with friends. If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican seafood, LOS MARISCOS is definitely worth a visit.
2. Shu Jiao Fu Zhou
Shu Jiao Fu Zhou is a Chinese restaurant that specializes in dumplings, soups, and noodles.
The prices are affordable and the portions are decent. The fish ball soup and peanut wheat noodles are recommended dishes.
The dumplings are also good but are better enjoyed when bought frozen to take home.
The restaurant is clean and spacious in the morning with friendly customer service. If you're looking for a quick and cheap lunch spot, Shu Jiao Fu Zhou is a great option.
3. Wah Fung No.1 Fast Food
Wah Fung No.1 Fast Food offers delicious Chinese street-style food at affordable prices.
Their roast pork is a must-try and is cooked to perfection.
Although there may be a line, the service is quick and worth the wait.
This cash-only establishment is perfect for takeout and there is a nearby park to enjoy your meal. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in the city.
4. Johny's Luncheonette
If you're looking for a classic diner experience with affordable prices, Johny's Luncheonette is the place to be.
Despite the limited seating, the food is worth the wait. The kitchen is well-organized with skilled professionals, ensuring that everything is cooked to perfection.
The menu offers a variety of options that are cooked right in front of you. The pancakes are fluffy and the French-toasted hoagie with eggs, bacon, and bananas is a must-try.
The staff is friendly and provides speedy service. Don't miss out on this authentic, cozy, and friendly spot!
5. Margon
Margon is a small Latin counter-service restaurant that serves up delicious Cuban and Caribbean cuisine at affordable prices.
The food is authentic and packed with flavor, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, adding to the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant.
While the space may be small, the quality of the food more than makes up for it. If you're looking for a delicious and affordable meal in the city, Margon is definitely worth a visit.
6. Ajisen Ramen
Ajisen Ramen is a great affordable restaurant for anyone looking to enjoy Japanese-style food.
The restaurant serves delicious ramen with a variety of options to choose from. The staff are polite, attentive, and provide great service.
The atmosphere is traditional and welcoming, making it a great place to dine with family and friends. The restaurant also serves other Japanese dishes like sushi.
The prices are affordable and worth the wait if there is a line. Ajisen Ramen is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for good Japanese food at a reasonable price.
7. &pizza – Astor Place
If you're looking for a quick and affordable pizza place with modern decor, then &pizza is the spot for you.
Their build-your-own pizza option allows for a personalized experience, with a wide variety of toppings to choose from.
The staff is friendly and efficient, and the indoor seating is ample.
Don't forget to try their garlic knots and dips, and if you're feeling adventurous, their dessert pizzas!
8. Simple NYC
If you're looking for affordable and tasty Japanese and Pacific Island comfort food, Simple NYC is a great choice.
This easygoing eatery offers traditional classics, including poke bowls, salads, and curry dishes. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
The food is fresh and flavorful, with properly cooked rice and well-balanced sauces. The portions are generous, making it a great value for the price.
The atmosphere is basic, with a small dining room, but the presentation of the food is above average. Simple NYC is highly recommended by many satisfied customers.
9. Terra Thai
Looking for affordable and authentic Thai food in the city that won't break the bank or disappoint your taste buds, Terra Thai is the place to go.
With most dishes under $10, generous portions, and authentic flavors, this place is a gem for those on a budget. The staff is friendly and the service is quick, making it a great option for a quick bite or takeout.
The Khao Soi curry noodle and Chicken Kua Kling are highly recommended, and the rice pudding dessert is a must-try.
Although the seating is limited, the outdoor seating is available for those who want to enjoy their food in a cozy and comfortable environment. If you're looking for delicious Thai food without breaking the bank, Terra Thai is definitely worth checking out.
10. Banh Mi Saigon
Looking for a delicious and affordable banh mi in the city center, look no further than Banh Mi Saigon.
This low-key Vietnamese sandwich shop serves up classic Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches that are always fresh and flavorful. The bread is soft and the fillings are juicy, making each bite a delight.
While it can get busy during lunch hours, the wait is definitely worth it.
The spicy chicken banh mi is a personal favorite, but there are plenty of other options to choose from. If you're in the area, definitely give Banh Mi Saigon a try!
11. Nish Nush
Nish Nush is a fantastic affordable restaurant that offers delicious Middle Eastern food made with fresh organic ingredients.
The menu boasts a variety of options, including salads and vegetables, all of which are healthy and flavorful.
The falafel is a standout dish, with generous portions and a variety of flavors to choose from. The restaurant has a friendly staff and fast service, making it a great spot for a quick lunch.
Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for some tasty Middle Eastern fare, Nish Nush is definitely worth checking out.
12. Rice Kitchen
Rice Kitchen is a hidden gem offering Korean specialties in a simple nook.
The menu may be small, but the flavors are huge and delicious. The bulgogi tofu bites and mushroom kimbap are highly recommended.
Prices are affordable, and the outdoor dining space is cute and cozy.
This is a must-try for anyone looking for flavorful Korean food without breaking the bank.
13. Taqueria St. Marks Place
Taqueria St. Marks Place is a cozy Mexican restaurant that offers affordable and delicious food. With a wide selection of authentic Mexican dishes, customers can enjoy their favorite tacos, burritos, and other low-key Mexican eats.
The decor is great, and the atmosphere is relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making sure that everyone is comfortable and satisfied with their meals. The margaritas are also a hit among customers.
If you're looking for a tasty and affordable Mexican restaurant, Taqueria St. Marks Place is definitely worth a visit.
14. DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas
DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas is a small, low-key Mexican eatery that serves up delicious Baja-style fare.
Their tacos are generously filled with fresh and flavorful ingredients, making them a must-try for any taco lover. The prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly and efficient.
While the space is limited, it adds to the charm of the place. The fish tacos are a standout dish, with a satisfying crunch and amazing flavor.
If you're looking for a quick and tasty bite, head to DORADO Tacos & Quesadillas.
