Columbus, Ohio, a dynamic Midwest capital known for its vibrant arts scene, booming tech industry, and passionate local pride, also boasts an incredibly rich and diverse culinary landscape. Beyond the university district and downtown high-rises, Cbus is teeming with unique local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites that truly capture the city's innovative and community-driven spirit. We've explored cherished institutions and neighborhood gems, along with glowing customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic, delicious flavors of Columbus.

1. Buckeye Donut from Buckeye Donuts

  • Restaurant: Buckeye Donuts

  • Description: A classic cake donut topped with a rich, peanut butter-flavored frosting and a chocolate drizzle, mimicking Ohio's famous Buckeye candy.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Buckeye Donuts is a legendary Columbus institution, operating 24/7 since 1969 and a beloved stop for OSU students and locals alike. Yelp reviewers consistently hail it as "A Columbus tradition" and praise its donuts for being "perfectly soft and delicious." Their signature Buckeye Donut is a fun, flavorful, and incredibly affordable nod to local pride and a must-try sweet treat.

  • Price: ~$2-$3 per donut

  • Location: 1998 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

2. Al Pastor Taco from Condado Tacos

  • Restaurant: Condado Tacos

  • Description: A single, build-your-own street-style taco featuring savory al pastor pork, pineapple, and your choice of fresh toppings on a warm tortilla.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Condado Tacos started right here in Columbus and has grown into a popular mini-chain while retaining its local roots and commitment to fresh, customizable tacos. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "creative tacos" and "great flavors," highlighting the "fresh ingredients." Ordering one or two tacos allows you to enjoy their unique concept and delicious flavors for under $10, making it a perfect quick meal.

  • Price: ~$3.50-$4.50 per taco

  • Location: Multiple locations in Columbus (e.g., 1293 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201)

3. Slice of Pizza from Yellow Brick Pizza

  • Restaurant: Yellow Brick Pizza

  • Description: A large, flavorful slice of pizza, known for its crispy crust and creative, often rock-and-roll themed, topping combinations.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Yellow Brick Pizza is a well-regarded local pizza spot in Columbus, particularly popular for its New York-style pies and inviting atmosphere. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "great unique slices" and find it "perfect for a quick lunch." They often highlight the quality of the crust and the interesting flavor profiles, making it a reliable and delicious choice for an affordable and satisfying pizza fix.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per slice

  • Location: 892 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215

4. Falafel Sandwich from Halal New York Style Cart

  • Restaurant: Halal New York Style Cart (various locations)

  • Description: Crispy, fried chickpea falafel patties, fresh vegetables, and creamy white sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Columbus boasts a fantastic street food scene, and the various Halal New York Style Carts bring authentic, delicious, and incredibly affordable Middle Eastern flavors to the streets. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "authentic street food" and "delicious falafel," often noting the "generous portions" and "great sauce." It's a quick, convenient, and satisfying meal that's a staple for many locals.

  • Price: ~$7-$9

  • Location: Various street corners and fixed locations in Columbus (e.g., often near OSU campus or downtown)

5. Frankfurter (Hot Dog) from Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace

  • Restaurant: Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace

  • Description: A classic all-beef frankfurter, served on a bun with your choice from their extensive list of creative and quirky toppings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace is a beloved local institution in Columbus, famous for its unique hot dog creations and vibrant, eclectic atmosphere. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "amazing hot dogs" and the "so many topping options" that allow for endless customization. A basic frankfurter with a few classic toppings easily fits under $10, offering a fun, flavorful, and incredibly affordable taste of Columbus's quirky side.

  • Price: ~$4-$6 (for a basic frank)

  • Location: 248 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215

6. Drip Coffee from Fox in the Snow Cafe

  • Restaurant: Fox in the Snow Cafe

  • Description: A meticulously brewed cup of high-quality drip coffee, served in a beautiful, rustic-chic cafe setting.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Fox in the Snow Cafe is an extremely popular local cafe in Columbus, celebrated for its stunning aesthetics, delicious pastries, and, of course, excellent coffee. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "beautiful space" and "excellent coffee," calling it a "perfect place for a quiet moment." It's the ideal spot for an affordable and top-notch caffeine fix that showcases Columbus's thriving artisan coffee scene.

  • Price: ~$4-$5

  • Location: Multiple locations in Columbus (e.g., 1031 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201)

7. Buttermilk Pancake Balls from Katalina's

  • Restaurant: Katalina's

  • Description: A small order of fluffy buttermilk pancake balls, often served with unique toppings like Nutella, dulce de leche, or pumpkin-apple butter.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Katalina's is a hugely popular local breakfast and brunch spot in Columbus, famous for its quirky, charming atmosphere and, most notably, its legendary pancake balls. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "legendary pancake balls!" calling them "sweet and savory perfection." A small order offers a delightful and incredibly unique taste of this Columbus icon, perfect for a sweet breakfast or brunch treat.

  • Price: ~$8-$10 (for a small order)

  • Location: 1105 N Front St, Columbus, OH 43215

8. Gyros Sandwich from Greek Express

  • Restaurant: Greek Express

  • Description: Slices of seasoned lamb and beef (or chicken), served in warm pita bread with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and creamy tzatziki sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Greek Express is a well-established local Greek restaurant in Columbus, known for its authentic flavors and fast, friendly service. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "authentic gyros, great sauce," and highlight the generous portions. It's a reliable and satisfying choice for a quick, flavorful, and very affordable meal that brings the taste of Greece to Columbus.

  • Price: ~$9-$10

  • Location: 1307 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

9. Small Pho from Huong Vietnamese Restaurant

  • Restaurant: Huong Vietnamese Restaurant

  • Description: A comforting small bowl of traditional Vietnamese pho, featuring rich, aromatic broth, tender rice noodles, and your choice of thinly sliced beef or chicken, served with fresh herbs on the side.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Huong Vietnamese Restaurant is a highly-rated local Vietnamese spot in Columbus, celebrated for its authentic and deeply flavorful pho. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the "rich broth" and "fresh ingredients," calling it "comforting and authentic pho." A small bowl often fits comfortably under $10, offering a deeply satisfying and aromatic meal perfect for any weather.

  • Price: ~$9-$10 (for a small bowl)

  • Location: 1280 Brown Rd, Columbus, OH 43223

10. Single Scoop Ice Cream from Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

  • Restaurant: Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

  • Description: A single scoop of their handcrafted, super-premium ice cream, available in a wide array of creative and unique flavors, known for its dense, creamy texture.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, while now a nationally recognized brand, started right here in Columbus and remains a beloved local icon known for its innovative flavors and commitment to quality ingredients. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the "creative flavors" and "super creamy" texture, often calling it the "best ice cream ever." A single scoop is the perfect, refreshing, and affordable treat to enjoy a taste of this Columbus success story.

  • Price: ~$5-$6

  • Location: Multiple locations in Columbus (e.g., 714 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215)

Columbus's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic Buckeye Donuts and unique hot dogs to authentic tacos and gourmet ice cream, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Columbus's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Buckeye Donut Buckeye Donuts $2-$3 per 1998 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Al Pastor Taco Condado Tacos $3.50-$4.50 per Multiple locations in Columbus
Slice of Pizza Yellow Brick Pizza $4-$5 per 892 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
Falafel Sandwich Halal New York Style Cart $7-$9 Various street corners in Columbus
Frankfurter (Hot Dog) Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace $4-$6 248 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
Drip Coffee Fox in the Snow Cafe $4-$5 Multiple locations in Columbus
Buttermilk Pancake Balls (Small Order) Katalina's $8-$10 1105 N Front St, Columbus, OH 43215
Gyros Sandwich Greek Express $9-$10 1307 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Small Pho Huong Vietnamese Restaurant $9-$10 1280 Brown Rd, Columbus, OH 43223
Single Scoop Ice Cream Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams $5-$6 Multiple locations in Columbus