When it comes to eating well on a budget, Chicago absolutely delivers. From sizzling taquerías tucked away in neighborhood corners to legendary delis serving up towering sandwiches, the Windy City has no shortage of flavor-packed bites that won’t break the bank. Whether you're rushing to class, working through your lunch hour, or just exploring the city with ten bucks in your pocket, you can still get a meal that’s satisfying, full of personality, and often steeped in decades of local tradition. Chicago’s food scene isn’t just about deep-dish pizza or Italian beef (though you’ll definitely find those too) — it’s about diversity, hustle, and the kind of neighborhood joints that make this city special. We’ve combed through real reviews, hit up locals’ favorites, and scouted the spots that consistently serve up standout food for under $10. From spicy shawarma and handmade dumplings to no-frills tamales and sandwiches that hit harder than a winter wind, here are ten cheap eats in Chicago that seriously overdeliver.

 

1. Jim’s Original – Maxwell Street Polish Sausage

  • Address: 1250 S Union Ave, Chicago, IL 60607

  • Dish: Maxwell Street Polish Sausage

  • Price: $4.50 (includes fries)

  • Why It’s a Steal: An iconic combo of grilled Polish sausage, mustard, and caramelized onions—plus a side of crispy fries.?

  • What People Say:

    • "The Maxwell Street polish is delicious in true Chicago fashion!"?

    • "Best polish sausage in Chicago. Their fries have a good flavor too. Very authentic Chicago."?

  • Pro Tip: Open 24/7, making it a perfect spot for late-night cravings. Be prepared for a line during peak hours, but the service is quick.?

2. Red Hot Ranch – Double Cheeseburger with Fries

  • Address: 3057 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

  • Dish: Double Cheeseburger with Fries

  • Price: $9.00

  • Why It’s a Steal: Smash-patty style burger with gooey cheese, stacked toppings, and crispy fries.?

  • What People Say:

    • "Best burger in Chicago, hands down."?

    • "The crispy fries are the perfect complement to the flavorful burger."?

  • Pro Tip: It's cash only. Don't get caught short.

3. Falafel & Grill – Falafel Wrap

  • Address: 1317 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

  • Dish: Falafel Wrap

  • Price: $7.50

  • Why It’s a Steal: Freshly made falafel, house-made hummus, pickled veggies, and tahini sauce all wrapped in warm pita.

  • What People Say:

    • “The falafel is crispy and flavorful. Tastes super fresh every time.”

    • “The portion is huge for the price. One of the best deals in Wicker Park.”

  • Pro Tip: Ask for extra garlic sauce. It takes everything to the next level.

4. Taco Bell Truck (Taqueria Los Comales) – Al Pastor Taco

  • Address: 3141 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623

  • Dish: Al Pastor Taco

  • Price: $3.25

  • Why It’s a Steal: Marinated pork, pineapple, and cilantro on a freshly made corn tortilla — simple, bold, and authentic.

  • What People Say:

    • “Always juicy, never dry. These tacos hit every time.”

    • “Best al pastor in Little Village. Can’t beat it for the price.”

  • Pro Tip: Order a few — the flavor is addicting and the portions are on the smaller side.

5. Devil Dawgs – Chicago Dog with Fries

  • Address: 2147 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

  • Dish: Chicago Dog with Fries

  • Price: $6.95

  • Why It’s a Steal: All-beef dog loaded with classic Chicago toppings and served with golden fries.

  • What People Say:

    • “The poppy seed bun is always fresh and the toppings are on point.”

    • “Classic taste, quick service, and a great price.”

  • Pro Tip: Ask for a side of their spicy mustard — it's not on the standard toppings but they’ll give it if you ask.

6. Crisp – Seoul Sassy Chicken Tenders (Half Order)

  • Address: 2940 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657

  • Dish: Seoul Sassy Chicken Tenders (Half Order)

  • Price: $9.00

  • Why It’s a Steal: Korean-style fried chicken with sweet, garlicky glaze — crispy, sticky perfection.

  • What People Say:

    • “Best Korean chicken I’ve had in Chicago.”

    • “The Sassy sauce is addicting. I always order extra on the side.”

  • Pro Tip: Half order is plenty unless you’re sharing. Grab a side of kimchi if you want to stay under $10 and fill up.

7. Bombay Wraps – Chicken Tikka Wrap

  • Address: 122 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60606

  • Dish: Chicken Tikka Wrap

  • Price: $9.00

  • Why It’s a Steal: Tender, spicy chicken wrapped with pickled onions and creamy chutney in warm naan.

  • What People Say:

    • “So flavorful and fresh. I get one every time I’m in the Loop.”

    • “Filling and super fast. It’s one of my favorite lunch spots downtown.”

  • Pro Tip: Order online ahead during lunch rush. The line moves fast but it gets packed.

8. Taqueria El Milagro – Carne Asada Taco

  • Address: 3050 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623

  • Dish: Carne Asada Taco

  • Price: $3.50

  • Why It’s a Steal: Grilled steak taco served on a handmade tortilla with fresh salsa and onions.

  • What People Say:

    • “Their carne asada is juicy and flavorful — the real deal.”

    • “You can taste the quality in the meat. Definitely underrated.”

  • Pro Tip: Grab a bag of their freshly made chips and salsa to go — it’ll still keep your total under $10.

9. Sultan's Market – Chicken Shawarma Pita

  • Address: 2057 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

  • Dish: Chicken Shawarma Pita

  • Price: $7.95

  • Why It’s a Steal: Hearty grilled chicken wrapped in warm pita, with fresh veggies, garlic sauce, and tahini — fast, filling, and full of flavor.

  • What People Say:

    • “Great portion for the price. It’s my go-to after a night out.”

    • “The garlic sauce is elite — order extra.”

  • Pro Tip: Hit the salad bar while you’re there. You can stack a to-go box for under $10 and have lunch the next day too.

10. Banh Mi & Co. – Classic Banh Mi Sandwich

  • Address: 3141 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657

  • Dish: Classic Banh Mi

  • Price: $7.50

  • Why It’s a Steal: Crusty baguette packed with pork, pate, pickled veggies, cilantro, jalapeño, and mayo. Bright, crunchy, and satisfying.

  • What People Say:

    • “The bread has that perfect crunch. The flavors pop.”

    • “Way more filling than it looks. I always feel like I’m robbing them at this price.”

  • Pro Tip: Ask for extra spice if you like heat — their jalapeños don’t mess around.

 

In a city as bold and diverse as Chicago, it’s no surprise that some of the most memorable meals come wrapped in foil, served from a counter, or handed over in a paper bag for under ten bucks. These aren’t just quick bites — they’re a reflection of the city’s culture, hustle, and the small businesses that keep neighborhoods alive and thriving. From crispy dumplings in Uptown to iconic hot dogs in Portage Park, each dish on this list is proof that you don’t need to spend big to eat big. So next time you’re hungry in Chicago, skip the chains, bring a ten-dollar bill, and treat yourself to something real — because in this town, cheap eats can still taste like a million bucks.