The Cheapest Places to Eat in Every State

moola writer
The Cheapest Places to Eat in Every State

These low-key spots serve up delicious food, such as hot dogs and empanadas, without breaking the bank.

To identify the best “cheap eats” restaurants in every state, Yelp ranked businesses in the restaurant category that were listed as “$” — the lowest price ranking on Yelp — using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews.

All of the restaurants on the list had passing health scores and were marked open on Yelp as of July 30, 2024.

Here’s the best cheap-eats spot in every state and what to order.

ALABAMA: Antojitos Izcalli in Tuscaloosa

What to order: Street tacos, carne asada, quesadillas

What customers say: “Food is authentic and amazing! Very friendly customer service. Highly recommend. This place was busy but you were still able to get a table quickly,” wrote a Yelp user named Bella B.

ALASKA: Lane’s Quickie Tacos in Fairbanks

What to order: The Alaskan, The Texan

What customers say: “My favorite place in Fairbanks for tacos! They have awesome tacos and many options.

The service is fast and the staff is really friendly too! Will definitely come back to try out different taco combinations,” wrote a Yelp user named Kimberly B.

ARIZONA: Casa De Falafel in Glendale

What to order: Lentil soup, falafel sandwich

What customers say: “When you eat here they seriously make you feel like family. The place is spotless clean and the food is amazing. They make the best falafel I’ve ever tasted and I could eat them by the bucket.

I highly recommend the falafel sandwich which comes with their lentil soup which is equally amazing.

Their chicken shawarma is good as well but I prefer the falafel. Get a side of them too because you won’t regret it. Their sandwiches are enough for two meals for me which is nice. I’ll be back soon to support a local small business,” wrote a Yelp user named Sara M.

ARKANSAS: Meld Kitchen and Sandwich Bar in Bentonville

What to order: Fish taco, Big Beef sandwich

What customers say: “I’ve been wanting to try this place out forever but we usually come to Arkansas on the weekend. It is inside a hotel so easy to miss but don’t. These sandwiches are so good.

They are warm but soft and not covered in cheese. Sauces are on the side so your sandwich isn’t soggy.

The chips are simple kettle chips with very little seasoning. They are perfect. The coleslaw is not covered in mayo or vinegar. Just lightly dressed. The meat and veggies are clean and of great quality. Please start opening on weekends,” wrote a Yelp user named Jen H.

CALIFORNIA: Curbgrill in Burbank

What to order: Breakfast burrito, smash burger

What customers say: “Amazing food amazing owner! Albert is the kindest most energetic guy and always provides great service.

Smash burgers are the bomb, breakfast burritos and quesadillas are the bomb. Fries seasoned amazing,” wrote a Yelp user named David P.

COLORADO: Istanbul Cafe and Bakery in Denver

What to order: Ground-beef borek, pistachio-chocolate baklava

What customers say: “The food in this cafe is really amazing. This is the second time we have eaten here. Everything is great,” wrote a Yelp user named Meena A.

CONNECTICUT: Tangiers International in Hartford

What to order: Lamb gyro, falafel sandwich

What customers say: “Hands down the best hidden gem in Connecticut. The market itself has so many unique and interesting finds but the real treasure is the tiny eatery in the back of the store.

10/10 recommend the falafel and the gyro (ask them to make it extra spicy if you are feeling sassy!) The falafel is the best in New England — trust me I’ve tried them all. The service deserves a mention as every single employee is extremely kind and makes you feel appreciated.

I believe they are all brothers and just the nicest people ever. Don’t forget to grab a piece of baklava,” wrote a Yelp user named Katie E.

DELAWARE: Smokin D’z BBQ in Milton

What to order: Pulled-pork sandwich, BBQ chicken

What customers say: “The best pulled pork, and brisket I’ve ever had. Convenient and fast. Try the ribs. They’re so yummy,” wrote a Yelp user named Maryann T.

FLORIDA: Gypsea Crepes in Panama City Beach

What to order: Sweet crepe, breakfast crepe

What customers say: “One of my favorite places to get a crepe! They are so good! The sweet is my favorite and the fruit is always so fresh,” wrote a Yelp user named Alisa N.

GEORGIA: Tacos Del Chavo in Kennesaw

What to order: Tamales, enchiladas

What customers say: “The best Mexican food in Kennesaw!! The service here is unmatched. The food is authentic and delicious. We come here weekly and have never tried something we don’t love.

If you go on Saturday or Sunday try the tamales, they’re perfect in every way,” wrote a Yelp user named Kristen T.

HAWAII: No Name BBQ Sandwich in Honolulu

What to order: Vietnamese sandwich, BBQ-pork sandwich

What customers say: “THE BEST BANH MI ON THE ISLAND!!! My family and I absolutely love their Vietnamese and BBQ pork banh mi! We always call early for takeout because they are super popular during lunchtime!

The couple that owns this shop is super sweet and they always remember their regular customers. Please stop by and get a sandwich because it is so worth it!!

Tip: Ask them for a side of their chili sauce if you like some kick,” wrote a Yelp user named Christina H.

IDAHO: Tango’s Empanadas in Boise

What to order: Gaucho empanada, Rancho empanada

What customers say: “Yummy, unique, affordable! We tried several flavors, and our favorites were the Gaucho, the Puerco, and the Rancho. Trying a variety was so fun,” wrote a Yelp user named Sydni G.

ILLINOIS: Bistro 6050 in Chicago

What to order: Spinach Ricotta empanada, banana and Nutella crepes

What customers say: “Bistro 6050 is such a cute little spot for a quick sweet or salty treat! The menu is SO extensive ranging from empanadas to burgers to crepes and ice cream. […] I ordered the banana Nutella crepes.

The French velvet crepes were spot on! I especially liked how the crepes were not paper thin. They held their shape/structure which made them enjoyable to eat. The decadent Nutella filling added quite a punch. The banana flavor was not overpowering. I recommend these for people with a chocolate craving,” wrote a Yelp user named Charlotte S.

INDIANA: 3 in 1 Restaurant in Indianapolis

What to order: Steak taco, sweetcorn chicken tamale

What customers say: “Awesome food, cheap, and the place is spotless!! I had chicken tamales and a steak taco…both were great. Salsa roja is perfect,” wrote a Yelp user named Melissa N.

IOWA: Gazali’s in Clive

What to order: Chicken shawarma, Greek salad

What customers say: “If you like Mediterranean food, then you need to try out Gazali’s. Food is incredible and the hospitality that MJ and his team provide makes you feel at home the minute that you walk in the door.

My family would eat at Gazali’s nightly if they could. Cheers,” wrote a Yelp user named Steve A.

KANSAS: Wiener Kitchen in Overland Park

What to order: Chili-cheese dog, chorizo rojo

What customers say: “This place never misses. Every component they use has intent and presence and flavor. Not a bad thing on the menu and I think I’ve had them all at this point. The chili is the best chili I’ve ever had and I’ve had my way with some chili. Nothing comes close.

The buns… high-quality buns for a high-quality wiener. All the sauces they make are delicious. Be confident that whatever sauce you are getting on your wiener is gonna be fantastical,” wrote a Yelp user named Luke M.

KENTUCKY: Dad’s Favorites in Lexington

What to order: Cuban sandwich, Asiago Pot Roast sandwich

What customers say: “Fantastic unique food and fast friendly service. There are small menu changes daily so every item is really thoughtfully perfected. Don’t sleep on the soups,” wrote a Yelp user named Julya M.

LOUISIANA: Mama Reta’s Kitchen in Lake Charles

What to order: Fried chicken, chicken-and-sausage gumbo

What customers say: “Delicious comfort soul food with a super welcoming owner. I met Mama Reta through the drive-through, and she is so passionate and loves her customers.

I got the fried chicken, and the skin was crispy, the meat was juicy, and the whole thigh was flavorful. To top it off, she gifted me a free dessert. Definitely coming back,” wrote a Yelp user named Chris H.

MAINE: Bet’s Fish Fry in Boothbay

What to order: Fish and chips, fish sandwich

What customers say: “Look no further if you want the best fried haddock and fries. Unreal!! The menu has only this: fish and chips or fish in a dish! Optional bun for a sandwich. Great value, but we drive an hour for this outdoor spot,” wrote a Yelp user named Caroline O.

MARYLAND: Oak Barrel in Little Orleans

What to order: Pulled-pork sandwich, Cowboy burger

What customers say: “Lovely surprise. Best stop if you are dropping off your kid at Frostburg University or if you are new to this neighborhood. Everyone should come here,” wrote Yelp user Christiane R.

MASSACHUSETTS: Pita Pockets in Amherst

What to order: Falafel pocket, combo plate

What customers say: “Great place for a falafel or gyro! Friendly staff and the food is always good and fresh. Definitely recommend for a meal on the go,” wrote Yelp user Kendra N.

MICHIGAN: Choupli Wood-Fired Kabob in Lansing

What to order: Chicken-shawarma plate, lamb-kofta plate

What customers say: “Our go-to place for Middle Eastern food. Awesome food, affordable with friendly staff. It is a hidden gem of the west side,” wrote Yelp user Harsha P.

MINNESOTA: DelSur Empanadas in Minnetonka

What to order: Chorizo empanada, Caprese empanada

What customers say: “A strip mall outlet of pure delight. These crusty flavorful empanadas are so, so good, and at $3.75 each a great deal. I especially liked the chorizo and the ham and cheese.

They’ve got quite a few varieties. There are two sauces that accompany — a seasoned sour cream and a chimichurri made with olive oil and herbs.

Both are great. They are situated in a small strip mall with a weird one-way parking lot but that’s the only negative about this gem. Definitely worth the drive,” wrote Yelp user Jim R.

MISSISSIPPI: Starfish Cafe in Bay St. Louis

What to order: Spring rolls, seared-tuna avocado toast

What customers say: “Adorable decor and theme! Incredible food and delicious lavender lemonade. It was just the right amount of food! Also, our waitress was super nice and helpful! Legitimately the best restaurant I’ve been to in a while,” wrote Yelp user Clara F.

MISSOURI: Willow Spring Mercantile in Excelsior Springs

What to order: Turkey BLT, flatbread pizza

What customers say: “I had the turkey BLT with their house salad and it was delicious!  I also liked the atmosphere of the restaurant as it was unique.  The service was also great!  Keep up the good work,” wrote Yelp user Alicia P.

MONTANA: Mr. Hot Dogs in Butte

What to order: Chicago dog, Butte dog

What customers say: “Read about this place in the Montana Quarterly Magazine and was intrigued. Stopped in Butte for lunch today and it did not disappoint. The restaurant decor is perfect, Buck (the owner) is extremely friendly and the hot dogs are out of this world! Will be back for sure,” wrote Yelp user Matt B.

NEBRASKA: Kathmandu Momo Station in Omaha

What to order: Fried-pork momo, Burmese ramen

What customers say: “It’s our first time to try momo and Burmese ramen! All I can say is it’s super good! Momo is now my new favorite dumplings! All ingredients tasted fresh! If you are going to try momo, I highly recommend getting the classic mild sauce,” wrote Yelp user Matt T.

NEVADA: SoyMexican Veggie-Vegan Eatery in Las Vegas

What to order: Tacos de guisado, torta

What customers say: “I’ve been to all vegan Mexican spots out here and this one takes the cake! Their tortillas are fresh and delicious, their rice, beans, and salsa are scrumptious and their vegan meat choices are seasoned perfectly so that vegans and non-vegans alike can enjoy a hot plate from this place!

Service is always polite and the ambiance is what you would expect from a nice Mexican eatery! 10/10 my go-to. Definitely recommend,” wrote Yelp user Valerie L.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Marsh Brothers Deli in Lebanon

What to order: Cubano, Marsh Brothers roast-beef sandwich

What customers say: “So amazing. Great sandwiches, better pepperoni! Smoked meats done in-house, fast service, and a nice spot outside. Not for big parties, but perfect for getting a tasty sandwich at a good price,” wrote Yelp user Christopher C.

NEW JERSEY: Missy’s Main Street Cafe in Rockaway

What to order: Black-garlic smash, Taylor ham-egg-and-cheese roll

What customers say: “Wow!!! Best breakfast/lunch ever! These owners know what they are doing! The menu is always creative and the food is always delicious!

The Taylor ham, egg, and cheese is a craving I have way too often and [their’s] is just the best! By far the best place in the area! Stop in, you won’t be disappointed,” wrote Yelp user Darlene H.

NEW MEXICO: El Chile Toreado in Santa Fe

What to order: Breakfast burrito, carnitas tacos

What customers say: “Needed a quick place to stop and grab a couple of tacos for the road. Wow. These are extra special. Lots of choices and spiced just right,” wrote Yelp user Kristin B.

NEW YORK: Holydog in Middletown

What to order: Bacon-chili-cheese dog, French kielbasa 

What customers say: “The food is very inexpensive and very good. I like to get the hotdog with chili bacon and it’s delicious. The owner and the workers are extremely friendly and nice,” wrote Yelp user Matt L.

NORTH CAROLINA: Chili Man in Charlotte

What to order: The Life Changer, Chili Man’s Choice

What customers say: “I would have to admit that I have never been a fan of any hot dogs until I tried Chili Man’s hot dog.

So many options to choose from: spicy, specials, and plain ole types of hot dogs. I always [go] for the Chili Man’s Choice,” wrote Yelp user Katherine G.

NORTH DAKOTA: Madina Cuisine in Fargo

What to order: Injera, chicken Suqaar

What customers say: “I’ve only eaten here once, but my mouth is so happy. The injera is deliciously sour. I had the beef tips and they are delicious. The beef sambusa was perfectly spicy. I haven’t had Ethiopian food this good in many years,” wrote Yelp user Michelle W.

OHIO: Scott’s Diner in New Concord

What to order: French toast, chili cheeseburger

What customers say: “I consulted Yelp to find a local, non-chain eatery for lunch. My fellow Yelpers gave Scott’s Diner a 5-star rating which was enough to convince me to give it a try.

I was not disappointed. This is a small diner, right on the main street of New Concord and only a short distance from the John and Annie Glenn Museum.

I tried their chili cheeseburger which is listed on the menu as one of their specialties. It was one of the top two or three chili cheeseburgers I’ve ever had,” wrote Yelp user Jim H.

OKLAHOMA: Four J’s Laotian & Thai Cuisine in Oklahoma City

What to order: Pad Thai, spring rolls

What customers say: “Four J’s is the place we go to when I’m craving Thai food! We’ve been here a few times now, and this place never disappoints.

Favorite here are their noodles, you can’t go wrong with either the Pad See Ew or the Pad Thai here. For appetizers, their spring rolls are a must! Super fresh and that sauce is to die for.

They’re very generous with their portions, and the service is always super quick and wonderful. We go here often, it’s definitely a hidden gem and a must-try,” wrote Yelp user Shu E.

OREGON: La Osita in Portland

What to order: Steak-and-eggs breakfast burrito, vegan burrito

What customers say: “Got the steak and eggs breakfast burrito and the carne asada burrito.
Loved that they toasted the tortilla to a beautiful crisp. You just gotta make sure you eat it fresh. Great amount of filling. They actually include a good portion of meat in their burritos, instead of rice or bean filler,” wrote Yelp user Leah L.

PENNSYLVANIA: Christie’s Deli in Philadelphia

What to order: Christie’s and Cliff’s breakfast specials

What customers say: “This place is the definition of an incredible hole-in-the-wall deli. It’s a family-run shop and clearly has lots of regulars. These are easily some of the best breakfast sandwiches I’ve ever had.

We got the Christie’s and Cliff’s breakfast specials and were blown away by the generous portions, great quality of ingredients, and the most stunning cheese pull we’ve seen in a sandwich,” wrote Yelp user Elizabeth L.

RHODE ISLAND: Caf Bar in Wakefield

What to order: Avocado toast, egg melt

What customers say: “The ratings tell all the story you need to know! We stayed in the area for a few days, and this was our go-to breakfast spot.

Delicious coffee, with lots of fun options if you’re looking to switch things up (maple, Nutella, lavender, etc.) but the winner is the egg melt on sourdough. As a self-proclaimed breakfast sandwich connoisseur, Caf Bar delivers one of the best I’ve had.

On top of all this, if you order pick-up online it takes just 10-15 min! Unique options, delicious food/drink, and convenience are all wrapped in one. Highly recommend if in the area,” wrote Yelp user Andrew F.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Millstone Biscuit Co in Murrells Inlet

What to order: Chicken biscuit with sausage gravy, breakfast burrito

What customers say: “Best biscuits and gravy I have ever had. Get in early. The place fills up fast. Limited seating. Great place for a light breakfast,” wrote Yelp user Michael S.

SOUTH DAKOTA: The Green Bean Coffeehouse in Spearfish

What to order: Breakfast sandwiches, coffee

What customers say: “I’ve been here many times. It’s always busy. You may have to wait a few minutes to order and get your coffee but it’s not outrageous. The staff are friendly and helpful. Usual prices for coffee.

There’s a small meeting room upstairs. Nice variety of coffee and eats. Places to sit inside and out although I have been here when seating options were not available,” wrote Yelp user Cherlyn L.

TENNESSEE: The Horn in Nashville

What to order: Chai, chicken sambusa

What customers say: “Never had Somalian food but this is a great place to start. Their breakfast is really where it’s at.

Definitely get yourself a chai and the smokin BBQ chicken sambusa is delicious. In second place is the beef sambusa, for me. This is also a hidden gem with ample seating and a quiet environment to meet with a friend or get some work done.

Make sure to order ahead [if] you’re not dining in,” wrote Yelp user Peyton W.

TEXAS: Del Campo Empanadas in Fort Worth

What to order: Beef empanada

What customers say: “The food was very nostalgic for me from when I lived in Argentina. Amazingly authentic,” wrote Yelp user Ben M.

UTAH: Capitol Burger in Torrey

What to order: Mac-and-cheese burger, pulled-pork burger

What customers say: “If you drive through and only have time for one stop this has to be it. Burger perfection. Amazing service. Perfect stop after a hike in the park, or a break on a drive through town.

Between the group we tried all the burgers and not one person wasn’t blown away. I had the Mac and cheese burger. The mustard and green chilis added the best flavor. Every bite was everything you want.

Also had the fries, and I love a good shoestring, thinner fry so I was all about them. There’s a reason these burgers are some of the top in the nation. Go try them for yourself,” wrote Yelp user Ashley P.

VERMONT: Pho Hong in Burlington

What to order: Spring rolls, Pho Thai

What customers say: “Found this restaurant on Yelp’s top 100 New England list and it definitely deserves its spot. Came here for lunch and sat outside, only to have it start raining shortly after.

The staff were very kind and quickly found us a seat inside. The steak pho (Pho Tai) we had was phenomenal. It was so hearty and savory and not too salty. The noodles were also super chewy and had a good texture!

I drank the whole bowl, which I usually never do. Super solid pho place. Definitely would come back,” wrote Yelp user Allison L.

VIRGINIA: My Avocado Mexican Grill With a Mediterranean Twist in Orange

What to order: Lamb bowl, chocolate-chip cookies

What customers say: “Great service. Very friendly owners and staff. The food is great quality for the price. The interior is updated and clean. Highly recommend,” wrote Yelp user Zag W.

WASHINGTON: Rise & Shine Bakery in Edmonds

What to order: Bánh mi, bún bò Huế

What customers say: “Best banh mi sandos in Seattle, period… stuffed with so much meat and herbs.

My go-to is the grilled pork and a bowl of bun bo hue, then dip the sando in the broth while eating. Then, grab some baked goods on the way out for later,” wrote Yelp user Johnny Y.

WEST VIRGINIA: Philippines Best Food in Parkersburg

What to order: Lumpia, sweet-and-sour chicken

What customers say: “Popped in for my first-ever Filipino food and was delighted!! The place is nicely decorated and clean, the walls have chalk art, and the menu offerings too!

The staff are friendly and helpful in deciding what to order — the portions were large and tasty! We ordered the sweet and sour chicken with noodles and chicken adobo with steamed rice,” wrote Yelp user April W.

WISCONSIN: Blue Star Cafe in Milwaukee

What to order: Beef sambusa, chicken sambusa

What customers say: “Amazing! I recommend Blue Star to anyone looking for new spots in Milwaukee. Authentic, delicious, and so much food for your money,” wrote Yelp user Samantha H.

WYOMING: Destination Taiwan in Cheyenne

What to order: Scallion chicken noodles, steamed buns

What customers say: “Love this place! It’s tiny and we probably never would’ve stopped here if not for the great reviews. We’re so glad we did! We ordered the pork rice, chicken scallion noodles, and an assortment of steamed buns.

Everything was excellent and the owners were so incredibly nice! Get there early because they have a limited number of steamed buns,” wrote Yelp user Holly L.


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