New York City is expensive, but eating well doesn't have to be. From legendary dollar slices to incredible ethnic food in the outer boroughs, NYC has some of the best cheap eats in America. Here's how to eat like a king on a peasant's budget.
Dollar Slice Spots
The iconic NYC dollar slice—a large, foldable slice of cheese pizza for around $1-1.50. Perfect for a quick, cheap meal.
2 Bros Pizza
The OG dollar slice chain. Basic but satisfying. Perfect for late-night hunger.
99 Cent Fresh Pizza
Slightly better quality than most dollar spots. Great for Midtown lunch.
Percy's Pizza
A bit above dollar slice price but noticeably better. Worth the extra 50 cents.
Chinatown Gems
Manhattan's Chinatown offers some of the best cheap eats in the city. Dumplings, noodles, and more for under $10.
Joe's Shanghai
Famous soup dumplings (xiao long bao). Share a few dishes for a cheap feast.
Vanessa's Dumpling House
Four dumplings for $3. Sesame pancake sandwiches are incredible and cheap.
Xi'an Famous Foods
Hand-pulled noodles with spicy cumin lamb. Filling, flavorful, affordable.
Wah Fung No. 1
Massive portions of roast pork over rice for $5. The best deal in Chinatown.
Halal Carts
Street Food Staples
The famous NYC halal cart—chicken or lamb over rice with white sauce and hot sauce. A filling meal for $6-8.
The Halal Guys
The original and most famous. Long lines but worth it. Extra white sauce.
Adel's Halal
Less famous, shorter lines, equally delicious. Local favorite.
Queens: Ethnic Food Paradise
Take the subway to Queens for some of the most authentic and affordable ethnic food in America.
Arepa Lady
Colombian arepas from the legendary cart-turned-restaurant. Cheap and authentic.
Himalayan Yak
Tibetan and Nepali food. Momos (dumplings) are incredible and affordable.
Phayul
More fantastic Tibetan food. The thukpa (noodle soup) is warming and cheap.
Taqueria Coatzingo
Authentic Mexican tacos for $3 each. The cemitas are massive and delicious.
More Budget Spots
Gray's Papaya
NYC institution. Two hot dogs and a papaya drink for under $8. Classic.
Mamoun's Falafel
Falafel sandwiches since 1971. Cheap, filling, and open late.
Los Tacos No. 1
Excellent tacos for NYC. A few tacos make a cheap, satisfying meal.
Punjabi Grocery & Deli
Vegetarian Indian steam table. A heaping plate of curry and rice for $7.
NYC Budget Eating Tips
- Lunch specials: Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus before 3pm
- Outer boroughs: Queens and Brooklyn are significantly cheaper than Manhattan
- Food halls: Urbanspace, Gotham West Market offer variety at reasonable prices
- Avoid Times Square: Everything is overpriced in the tourist zones
- Happy hour: Many bars offer cheap or free appetizers with drinks
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