How to Spend $10 and Get The Most Out of NYC Restaurants

New York City is known for its high-end dining spots and world-class restaurants, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to enjoy incredible food. From crispy bagels to mouthwatering tacos, there’s a whole world of delicious dishes waiting to be discovered — all under $10. In this list, we’re showcasing 10 amazing meals that won’t cost you more than your morning coffee, but will certainly satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for comfort food or something a bit more exotic, these budget-friendly eats will show you that delicious dining doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

1. Scarr’s Pizza – Slice of Pepperoni Pizza

Location: Lower East Side, Manhattan
Dish: Pepperoni Pizza Slice
Price: $4.00
Why It’s a Steal: Made with freshly milled flour in-house, this is a high-quality New York slice with perfectly crisped pepperoni cups.
What People Say:
- “The crust is unreal — soft, chewy, and just the right amount of crispy.”
- “Hands down one of the best slices I’ve had in New York City. Every bite is perfection.”
Pro Tip: Ask for a square slice if available — it’s the sleeper hit.
Where to Find It: Scarr’s Pizza on Google Maps

2. Mamouns Falafel – Classic Falafel Sandwich

Location: Greenwich Village, Manhattan
Dish: Classic Falafel Sandwich
Price: $4.50
Why It’s a Steal: Crispy falafel, fresh veggies, and tahini all packed into a warm pita — fast, flavorful, and filling.
What People Say:
- “A classic that never disappoints. Perfect for a quick lunch or late-night snack.”
- “This falafel is crispy on the outside, and so soft and tender inside. Pure magic.”
Pro Tip: Add a little of their signature hot sauce — it’s potent but worth it.
Where to Find It: Mamouns Falafel on Google Maps

3. Los Tacos No. 1 – Adobada Taco

Location: Chelsea Market, Manhattan
Dish: Adobada (Marinated Pork) Taco
Price: $4.95
Why It’s a Steal: Juicy, spit-roasted pork on a fresh corn tortilla with pineapple and salsa — bold flavor in every bite.
What People Say:
- “Always a line, always worth it. The adobada is to die for!”
- “I can’t get enough of the adobada. It’s the perfect combo of sweet and savory.”
Pro Tip: Order one taco to eat on the go, then double back with a second order if the line dies down.
Where to Find It: Los Tacos No. 1 on Google Maps

4. Joe’s Steam Rice Roll – Beef Rice Roll

Location: Canal Street Market, Manhattan
Dish: Beef Rice Roll
Price: $7.00
Why It’s a Steal: Silky rice noodles made to order and folded around tender beef, scallions, and soy sauce.
What People Say:
- “The beef rice roll at Joe’s is so tender and flavorful, I’ve never had anything like it.”
- “Such an underrated gem. This is definitely my go-to spot when I'm near Canal Street.”
Pro Tip: Add egg and crispy wontons inside for extra texture — still stays under $10.
Where to Find It: Joe’s Steam Rice Roll on Google Maps

5. Punjabi Grocery & Deli – Chana Masala with Roti

Location: East Village, Manhattan
Dish: Chana Masala with Roti
Price: $5.00
Why It’s a Steal: Rich, spicy chickpeas and fluffy roti — a NYC cabbie classic that’s hot, hearty, and satisfying.
What People Say:
- “$5 for this plate? It's a bargain, and the flavors are outstanding.”
- “Punjabi is a NYC institution — the food is simple, but so comforting and delicious.”
Pro Tip: Open late and cash only — come prepared.
Where to Find It: Punjabi Grocery & Deli on Google Maps

6. King Dumplings – Pork Dumplings (10 pieces)

Location: Chinatown, Manhattan
Dish: Fried Pork Dumplings
Price: $4.00
Why It’s a Steal: Ten dumplings with crispy bottoms and juicy pork inside — unreal value in the heart of Chinatown.
What People Say:
- “The fried pork dumplings are the best I’ve had — crispy and packed with flavor.”
- “Super cheap and super good. You can’t beat this deal in NYC.”
Pro Tip: Bring cash and add chili oil — it’s homemade and addictive.
Where to Find It: King Dumplings on Google Maps

7. Absolute Bagels – Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese

Location: Upper West Side, Manhattan
Dish: Everything Bagel with Cream Cheese
Price: $4.00
Why It’s a Steal: Hand-rolled, boiled bagels with the perfect chew, generously smeared with cream cheese.
What People Say:
- “The best bagel in the city, no question.”
- “The bagels here are so fresh and chewy. They set the standard for all others in NYC.”
Pro Tip: Cash only; get there early for the freshest batch.
Where to Find It: Absolute Bagels on Google Maps

8. El Rey Del Taco Truck – Al Pastor Taco

Location: Astoria, Queens
Dish: Al Pastor Taco
Price: $3.00
Why It’s a Steal: Spit-roasted pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions on a homemade tortilla.
What People Say:
- “This taco truck serves up the best al pastor in all of NYC. So juicy!”
- “My go-to taco truck. Always fresh and delicious.”
Pro Tip: Order two — you’ll want more. Try the green salsa.
Where to Find It: El Rey Del Taco Truck on Google Maps

9. Shu Jiao Fu Zhou – Pork and Chive Dumplings (10 pieces)

Location: Lower East Side, Manhattan
Dish: Pork and Chive Dumplings
Price: $3.00
Why It’s a Steal: Ten handmade dumplings filled with juicy pork and fragrant chives — unbeatable at this price.
What People Say:
- “This is the dumpling spot. Always a favorite when I’m in the area.”
- “I love these dumplings. The flavor is simple but so satisfying.”
Pro Tip: Add a side of peanut noodles for a full meal under $7.
Where to Find It: Shu Jiao Fu Zhou on Google Maps

10. Banh Mi Saigon – Classic Banh Mi Sandwich

Location: Little Italy, Manhattan
Dish: Classic Banh Mi
Price: $6.00
Why It’s a Steal: A crispy baguette loaded with roasted pork, pickled veggies, cucumber, and fresh herbs.
What People Say:
- “One of the best Banh Mi I’ve ever had in NYC. Fresh and packed with flavor.”
- “Perfect balance of crispy, tangy, and savory. You can’t go wrong.”
Pro Tip: Grab a Vietnamese iced coffee while you’re there — still stays under $10.
Where to Find It: Banh Mi Saigon on Google Maps

New York City is a haven for food lovers, with an endless variety of affordable eats that pack big flavors. From crispy pizza slices to savory dumplings and flavorful tacos, these under-$10 dishes prove that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the city’s best food. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or savoring a casual meal, these spots offer something for every craving. So, the next time you’re in NYC, make sure to check out these hidden gems and discover what makes them so special!