Cheap Eats in New York (2025)

A Chinatown institution where roast pork or soy sauce chicken over rice stays one of the city’s best values. Celebrated by Eater New York and cited by The New York Times, it’s cash-only, fast, and very New York.

Since the 1990s, this East Village cabbie favorite has served vegetarian Punjabi staples, samosas, and chai at low prices. Praised by Gothamist and local food writers for generous combos and genuine community roots.

An East Village kosher lunch counter (since 1938) where pierogi, borscht, and challah sandwiches remain comforting and affordable. Featured by Time Out New York and cherished by locals for its historic counter and hospitality.

CDMX-style tacos for a few dollars each—suadero, tripa blowtorched to order, al pastor off the trompo. Consistently praised by The Infatuation and Eater New York; a modern classic connected to the neighborhood sidewalk scene.

The city’s birria wave-maker still slings affordable tacos and consomé from multiple trucks, with a new Flushing spot adding seats. Covered by Grub Street and Eater; lines form for rich, Tijuana-style beef folded into griddled tortillas.

Fast-casual Nyonya Malaysian cooking—nasi lemak, pan mee, kaya toast—at friendly prices. Run by chef-owner Kyo Pang; lauded by The Infatuation and Bon Appétit, and embraced by Lower East Side regulars all day.

A tiny Flushing legend famous for No. 6: pork-and-veg wontons topped with chili crisp. Frequently recommended by Time Out New York, Eater, and The Infatuation; a cash-only quick stop with enduring neighborhood ties.

Thiru Kumar’s Washington Square Park cart turns out vegan dosas and sambar for well under typical lunch prices. Shouted out by Gothamist and local critics; check social for hours as the schedule can shift.

Upper West Side standby for giant, fairly priced bánh mì, phở, and vermicelli bowls. Praised by Time Out New York and neighborhood press; takeout-focused with loyal locals and late lunch lines.

Since 1981, this Cantonese anchor has served wonton noodle soup, roast meats, and salt-and-pepper specials at modest prices. Featured by Eater New York and listed in the Michelin Guide; still cash-only, still essential.

Steamed rice rolls made to order—shrimp, roast pork, or the house special—typically under ten dollars. Endorsed by The Infatuation and adored by Chinatown regulars; quick, no-frills, and delicious with a splash of sauce.

A century-old Italian deli that still makes mozzarella daily and stuffs heroes like the Mama’s Special for friendly prices. Recently praised by The Infatuation; a pre–Citi Field ritual for many Queens locals.