Atlanta, Georgia, a sprawling metropolis famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and bustling urban energy, also boasts an incredible culinary scene that doesn't demand a hefty price tag. Beyond the upscale dining and national chains, Atlanta's vibrant neighborhoods are teeming with local gems serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites. We've combed through local favorites and recent 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 flavors of the Peach State's capital.

1. Bánh Mì from Lee's Bakery

  • Restaurant: Lee's Bakery

  • Description: A classic Vietnamese Bánh Mì sandwich featuring savory grilled pork, chicken, or tofu with fresh cilantro, jalapeño, pickled carrots, and daikon on a perfectly crispy baguette.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Tucked away on Buford Highway, Lee's Bakery is an Atlanta institution for authentic Vietnamese sandwiches. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the “fresh ingredients” and the “perfectly crusty yet soft baguette.” Many consider it to serve the “best banh mi in Atlanta,” offering an incredibly flavorful and budget-friendly meal that captures the essence of Vietnamese street food.

  • Price: ~$6-$7

  • Location: 3310 Buford Hwy NE #102, Atlanta, GA 30329

2. Classic Hamburger from Little's Food Store

  • Restaurant: Little's Food Store

  • Description: A straightforward, delicious beef patty served on a soft bun with classic toppings, cooked to perfection in a beloved neighborhood grocery store setting.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Located in Cabbagetown, Little's Food Store and Grill is far more than a convenience store; it's a local legend for its incredible burgers. Yelp reviewers offer effusive praise, with one declaring, “I would sell my soul to buy the burgers here.” Another noted it's a “perfect neighborhood joint with a killer burger.” It's a no-frills, satisfying classic that embodies local charm.

  • Price: ~$8-$9

  • Location: 198 Carroll St SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

3. Falafel Sandwich from Falafel King

  • Restaurant: Falafel King

  • Description: Crispy, fried chickpea patties, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, drizzled with tahini sauce and wrapped in warm pita bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Falafel King has been a long-standing go-to for Middle Eastern cuisine in Atlanta, particularly praised for its namesake dish. Yelp reviewers commend the “authentic and fresh falafel” with “great portion for the price.” It’s often described as a “my go-to for a quick, delicious falafel fix,” proving that quality and affordability can go hand-in-hand for a satisfying vegetarian option.

  • Price: ~$8-$9

  • Location: 2530 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329

4. Slice of Cheese Pizza from Pielands Sub & Slice

  • Restaurant: Pielands Sub & Slice

  • Description: A generously sized, classic New York-style cheese pizza slice with a perfectly crisp and chewy crust.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Pielands has become a popular spot for authentic New York-style pizza by the slice in the Virginia-Highland area. Yelp reviewers frequently rave about the “huge, classic NY style slice” and note that the “crust is perfect.” It’s often a top recommendation for a “great late-night spot” or a quick, satisfying lunch that truly feels like a slice of the Big Apple in Atlanta.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per slice

  • Location: 1000 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

5. Jerk Chicken (A La Carte) from Eats

  • Restaurant: Eats

  • Description: A flavorful portion of tender, marinated jerk chicken, packed with Caribbean spices.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Eats is an iconic Atlanta institution, famous for its no-frills setting and consistently delicious, affordable Caribbean and soul food. While full plates might be over $10, an à la carte portion of their jerk chicken is perfect. Yelp reviewers repeatedly call the “jerk chicken always tender and flavorful” and commend that you “can't beat the value and taste for real ATL soul food.” It's a vibrant taste of Atlanta's diverse culinary heritage.

  • Price: ~$7-$9 (for an à la carte portion, prices vary)

  • Location: 600 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

6. Glori-Fried Chicken Biscuit from Bomb Biscuit Co.

  • Restaurant: Bomb Biscuit Co.

  • Description: A perfectly fried chicken fillet nestled inside a fluffy, buttery, scratch-made biscuit.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Bomb Biscuit Co. has quickly become a standout in Atlanta's breakfast scene, celebrated for its exceptional biscuits. Atlanta Magazine's "50 of the Best Cheap Eats in Atlanta" specifically praises this dish. Yelp reviewers rave that the “biscuit is fluffy, chicken is perfectly fried” and often describe it as “a taste of heaven in biscuit form.” It's a comforting and delicious way to start your day with true Southern flair.

  • Price: ~$7-$9

  • Location: 650 Auburn Ave NE Suite 101, Atlanta, GA 30312

7. Guava Pastelito from Buena Gente Cuban Bakery

  • Restaurant: Buena Gente Cuban Bakery

  • Description: A delicate, flaky pastry filled with sweet guava paste, often with cream cheese.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Buena Gente Cuban Bakery brings authentic Cuban flavors to Atlanta, and their pastelitos are a sweet, affordable indulgence. Atlanta Magazine mentions their “guava pastelitos are just as satisfying” as their savory items. Yelp reviewers describe them as “flaky, sweet, and perfectly authentic,” offering “a little taste of Cuba.” It's a delightful and budget-friendly treat for any time of day.

  • Price: ~$3-$4

  • Location: Multiple locations in Atlanta (e.g., 1361 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033)

8. Acai Buku Cup from Everythang NOLA

  • Restaurant: Everythang NOLA

  • Description: A refreshing acai blend topped with crunchy granola, seeds, nuts, and fresh fruit, capturing a taste of New Orleans' vibrant energy.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Everythang NOLA offers a unique fusion of healthy options with a New Orleans twist. Atlanta Magazine highlights their “Acai Buku Cups” as a top cheap eat. Yelp reviewers praise it as “refreshing and delicious,” and a “great healthy option” that doesn't compromise on flavor. It's a vibrant and satisfying way to get a taste of NOLA's spirit in Atlanta.

  • Price: $5.50

  • Location: 1968 Hollywood Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

9. Drip Coffee from Chrome Yellow Trading Co.

  • Restaurant: Chrome Yellow Trading Co.

  • Description: A carefully brewed cup of high-quality drip coffee, served in a stylish, welcoming space.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Chrome Yellow Trading Co. is a popular local coffee shop in Old Fourth Ward known for its excellent coffee and inviting atmosphere, complete with indoor and outdoor seating. Yelp reviewers consistently commend the “great coffee” and the “cool space to hang out.” It’s a perfect spot for a delicious, locally sourced caffeine boost or a relaxed moment.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 (for a regular drip coffee)

  • Location: 501 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

10. A La Carte Taco from Hankook Taqueria

  • Restaurant: Hankook Taqueria

  • Description: A single street-style taco featuring innovative Korean-Mexican fusion fillings, such as bulgogi, spicy pork, or tofu, on a soft tortilla with fresh toppings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Hankook Taqueria is a celebrated West Midtown spot that masterfully blends Korean BBQ flavors with traditional Mexican street food. While full meals can add up, their individual tacos offer an affordable taste of their unique creativity. Yelp reviewers consistently highlight the “unique and delicious flavor combinations” and describe it as a “must-try for fusion tacos!” It's a vibrant and memorable bite that showcases Atlanta's innovative culinary spirit.

  • Price: ~$3.50-$4.50 per taco

  • Location: 1778 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

Atlanta's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you dive into its amazing local establishments. From authentic Vietnamese Bánh Mì and iconic Cabbagetown burgers to unique Korean-Mexican fusion tacos and comforting biscuits, 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 Atlanta's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Bánh Mì Lee's Bakery $6-$7 3310 Buford Hwy NE #102, Atlanta, GA 30329
Classic Hamburger Little's Food Store $8-$9 198 Carroll St SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Falafel Sandwich Falafel King $8-$9 2530 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Slice of Cheese Pizza Pielands Sub & Slice $4-$5 1000 Virginia Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Jerk Chicken (A La Carte) Eats $7-$9 600 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Glori-Fried Chicken Biscuit Bomb Biscuit Co. $7-$9 650 Auburn Ave NE Suite 101, Atlanta, GA 30312
Guava Pastelito Buena Gente Cuban Bakery $3-$4 Multiple locations (e.g., 1361 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033)
Acai Buku Cup Everythang NOLA $5.50 1968 Hollywood Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Drip Coffee Chrome Yellow Trading Co. $4-$5 501 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
A La Carte Taco Hankook Taqueria $3.50-$4.50 1778 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318