The Best Cheap Eats in New York City

Without a doubt, New York is one of the most interesting destinations for any traveler: a city of fashion, the star of thousands of movies, countless art centers, an icon of world gastronomy, impressive parks, museums, and 24-hour nightlife, among other things. They return to the Big Apple, a city that attracts and falls in love with those who visit it.

The city par excellence and the most cosmopolitan is so fascinating that even those who have already visited it want to return again and again.

Among many of the activities that New York City offers, there is one that crosses 100% of its visitors, and it is its gastronomy. Although it is known that life here is quite expensive, it is possible to enjoy exquisite meals without suffering when paying the bill.

There are many options of chains and food stalls where it is possible to eat for around $8 – $16 per person, and although in other places these values ​​are not considered cheap, in New York they are not bad at all.

Also, and something very important when talking about numbers, is that, in most places, food is ordered at the bar and for this reason there is no table service, so tips are not mandatory and at the time of the end of the account, they really make a difference.

In this type of “self-service” style places, the so-called “gratuity” is expected, where it is advisable to leave at least 10% of the total price, which can go up to 20% if the service has been really good.

On the other hand, keep in mind that prices never include 7% tax.

Some of the recommended places are:

Little Spain Market

This gastronomic market opened its doors in 2019 and offers the best of Spanish gastronomy.

It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and is located at 10 Hudson Yards and although it is well signposted, keep in mind that it depends on where you access it from, you must go down the escalator that gives direct access to the market.

The closest subway stop is 34 St. – Penn Station and lines A, C and E converge

On the menu you can find options such as gazpacho or salmorejo,  paella, salads, typical Spanish desserts such as the Tarta de Santiago or the Pijama, and it can be accompanied with traditional drinks such as Kas, Mahou or Alhambra beer.

Shake Shack

This option is one of the most classic places to eat cheap in New York. This is a very high-quality burger chain. Regarding the price, it can be found for around $8 (a menu with a hamburger, fries, and a drink).

New York has more than 30 restaurants throughout the city, including the first one located in Madison Square Park, more precisely at 8th Ave 691.

You have to take into account that they have a very high number of people in the central hours to eat right there, but there is always the option of take away and eat outside in a city park if the weather is good.

Chipotle

It is a Mexican fast-food chain and one of the most famous in the United States. Without a doubt, it is an excellent alternative to eat cheap in New York, and in this case, there are also several places throughout the city.

On its menu are the famous burritos, bowls, salads, and tacos. You can choose the ingredients, the sauces, and the type of meat (they also have a vegan option). Values ​​range from $10 – $13 per person

Gray’s Papaya

Without a doubt, whoever travels to New York must try its famous hot dogs. Gray’s Papaya is the recommended place to eat the cheapest and richest hot dogs in the entire city. Keep in mind that a hot dog accompanied by papaya juice is around $5.

The most famous venue is located on 72nd Street and Broadway, but there is also another at 612 8th Avenue, between 39th and 40th streets in Manhattan.

The chain has a very good breakfast with sandwiches, bagels and their cheap and tasty coffee.

Patzeria Perfect Pizza

This pizzeria is one of the favorite places to eat cheap in New York. When visiting the Big Apple, one of the “musts” is to try its famous and huge slices of pizza.

Located in the heart of Manhattan, a few meters from Times Square, is this small pizzeria. One of the recommended pizzas is “La abuelita”.

Street food Carts

In New York you can find these carts on every corner. You can get everything from bagels and coffee for less than $3 to prepared dishes.

Eating from a street cart costs around $10 – $13 per person. (Keep in mind that the carts located in areas like Central Park are usually only for tourists and sell more expensive and less appetizing food).

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