New York City’s Best $10 Meals: Where to Eat on a Budget
New York City boasts a vibrant culinary landscape, offering a plethora of affordable dining options that don’t compromise on taste or quality. From iconic delis to local favourites, the city caters to those seeking delicious meals on a budget. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these establishments can provide a rich gastronomic experience without straining your wallet.
Here are 12 notable spots where you can enjoy satisfying meals for $10 or less:
Budget-Friendly Spots to eat at in New York City
1. Gray’s Papaya
Gray’s Papaya, established 1973, is a Manhattan staple celebrated for its high-quality, affordable hot dogs (or franks as they’re known as) and tropical fruit drinks. It’s a quintessential spot for a quick and tasty meal or refreshing beverage.
- Location: 2090 Broadway at W 72nd Street, Manhattan
- Price Range: Hot dogs at $3.25 each; combo deals available
- Menu Highlights: Hot dogs, papaya drink, piña colada
- Good to Know: Offers a “Recession Special”— 2 franks & medium tropical drink; $7.50 incl. tax
- Website: grayspapaya.nyc
2. Katz’s Delicatessen
Since 1888, Katz’s Delicatessen has been crafting classic Jewish deli fare, most notably its pastrami on rye sandwiches. It’s a must-visit for those craving traditional flavors in a historic setting.
- Location: 205 East Houston Street, New York City (corner of Ludlow St)
- Price Range: Pastrami sandwiches around $10
- Menu Highlights: Pastrami on rye, corned beef sandwiches
- Good to Know: Known for generous portions; sharing is an option.
- Website:katzsdelicatessen.com
3. Veselka
Veselka has been serving Ukrainian and Eastern European comfort food since opening in 1954, with dishes like pierogi and borscht in a welcoming atmosphere.
- Location: 144 Second Avenue, Manhattan
- Price Range: Most dishes under $10
- Menu Highlights: Pierogi, borscht, kielbasa
- Good to Know: Open till 11pm or later, making it a great spot for late-night dining.
- Website: veselka.com
4. Scarr’s Pizza
Scarr’s Pizza is acclaimed for its New York-style slices, featuring hand-milled flour crusts and premium toppings, making it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts.
- Location: 35 Orchard Street, Manhattan
- Price Range: Slices around $3; whole pies under $20
- Menu Highlights: Classic cheese slices, Sicilian slices
- Good to Know: The pizzeria uses All-Natural ingredients and 100% stone milled flour
- Website:scarrspizza.com
5. 20 Gram Café at Jubilee Marketplace
Located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, this marketplace offers a diverse culinary experience with an in-house butchery, delicatessen, and wide cheese selection. If your looking for a quick bite, order one of their super affordable burger sliders.
- Location: 145 West Street, Greenpoint, Brooklyn
- Price Range: Burgers starting at $2.55 each
- Menu Highlights: Burger sliders, fries, shakes
- Good to Know: Perfect spot for a quick bite without compromising on taste.
- Website: jubileemarketplace.com
6. Elsa La Reina de Chicharron
This Inwood establishment specializes in Dominican cuisine, offering flavorful dishes like stewed chicken with rice and beans at reasonable prices.
- Location: 4840 Broadway, Inwood, Manhattan
- Price Range: Stewed chicken with rice and beans around $10
- Menu Highlights: Stewed chicken, rice, beans
- Good to Know: Known for generous portions and authentic flavors.
- Website:yelp.com
7. Wah Fung No. 1
Situated in Chinatown, Wah Fung No. 1 is spot that offers affordable, authentic street-style Chinese cuisine. Their delicious Chinese barbecue and roast duck over rice is a must-try.
- Location: 79 Chrystie Street, Chinatown, Manhattan
- Price Range: Char siu over rice around $6; combo meals under $10
- Menu Highlights: Char siu, roast duck, fried rice
- Good to Know: Cash-only establishment; expect a line during peak hours.
- Website: wah-fung.com
8. Joe’s Pizza
Joe’s Pizza is another great spot for affordable New York-style pizza, with a reputation that goes back decades. Whether you’re grabbing a quick slice or ordering a whole pie, it’s always a solid choice.
- Location: 216 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn; Multiples stores in New York City
- Price Range: Whole pies from $26
- Menu Highlights: Classic cheese pizza, pepperoni pizza
- Good to Know: Several customizable options
- Website: joespizzanyc.com
9. Shake Shack
Although slightly more well-known, Shake Shack still offers delicious food under $10. Their ShackBurger and crinkle-cut fries are a fast-food favorite.
- Location: 46 locations throughout New York City
- Price Range: Burgers starting at $6.99
- Menu Highlights: ShackBurger, crinkle-cut fries, milkshakes
- Good to Know: Burgers are made with a 100% Angus beef blend, vegetarian options available
- Website: shakeshack.com
10. The Halal Guys
The Halal Guys have been serving up savory gyros and chicken over rice to budget-conscious New Yorkers and visitors since 1990. Their famous white sauce and seasoned rice make for a filling, flavorful meal.
- Location: W 53rd Street and 6th Avenue, New York City
- Price Range: Chicken or gyro over rice $7.99
- Menu Highlights: Gyros and falafels
- Good to Know: They offer combo platters with generous servings
- Website: thehalalguys.com
11. Prince Street Pizza
Located in the heart of SoHo, Prince Street Pizza is known for its signature Sicilian slice topped with crispy pepperoni. It’s perfect for a quick bite without spending much.
- Location: 27 Prince Street, Manhattan
- Price Range: $6 and up per slice
- Menu Highlights: Sicilian slice with pepperoni, classic cheese pizza
- Good to Know: This pizzeria also sells desserts and salads
- Website:princestreetpizza.com
12. Los Tacos No. 1
Los Tacos No. 1 serves up authentic Mexican tacos in the heart of Chelsea Market. Their tacos, made with freshly prepared tortillas, are an affordable way to enjoy bold flavors.
- Locations: Multiple including Chelsea Market, 75 9th Avenue, Manhattan
- Price Range: Tacos and Tostadas starting at $4.75
- Menu Highlights: Carne asada tacos, adobada tacos, horchata
- Good to Know: Fresh, made-to-order tacos
- Website: lostacos1.com
New York City is home to a wide variety of affordable meals that don’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot dog, a slice of pizza, or some tacos, there are plenty of options to enjoy a satisfying meal on a budget. From classic delis to local food trucks, these 12 spots represent just a fraction of what the city has to offer for under $10. Don’t let your budget limit your food adventure—check out New York restaurants to visit here.
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