Los Angeles – a city synonymous with glitz, glamour, and often, high prices. But beneath the Hollywood sign and sprawling mansions lies a vibrant culinary scene where incredible flavors don't have to break the bank. Forget the notion that good food comes with a hefty price tag. We've scour-ed the City of Angels to bring you ten fantastic dishes, all under $10, that will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet.

Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through LA's diverse neighborhoods, from classic deli sandwiches to authentic Salvadoran pupusas!

1. The Original #19 from Langer's Deli

• Restaurant: Langer's Deli

• Description: This iconic sandwich features hot pastrami, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on double-baked rye bread.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Langer's Deli is a Los Angeles institution, and the #19 is a legend for a reason. Yelp reviewers consistently rave about the “tender, juicy pastrami” and the “perfectly balanced” combination of ingredients. One reviewer on Reddit described it as "a 10/10, not sure what they can do better." While the full sandwich can be pricier, a half or a smaller portion is a phenomenal way to experience this culinary masterpiece. It’s a taste of LA history that’s worth every penny.

• Price: A full #19 can be more, but smaller portions or half sandwiches can be found under $10 (check for current pricing).

• Location: 704 S Alvarado St, Los Angeles, CA 90057

2. Al Pastor Taco from Leo's Tacos Truck

• Restaurant: Leo's Tacos Truck

• Description: Succulent al pastor pork, carved straight from the trompo, served on a warm corn tortilla with a sliver of pineapple.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Leo's Tacos Truck is a quintessential LA experience, especially after dark. Yelp and Time Out Los Angeles reviewers consistently highlight the “flavorful al pastor” and the “entertainment” of watching the taqueros slice the pork. One reviewer on Time Out raved, "The small tortillas come with pork carved straight off the trompo along with a sliver of pineapple... and if you stop by the trucks after dark, you'll also be getting dinner and a show for that price." It's a true taste of street food perfection.

• Price: ~$2.25 per taco (prices may vary slightly by truck)

• Location: Multiple locations across Los Angeles (e.g., 1515 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019)

3. Pupusas from Sarita's Pupuseria

• Restaurant: Sarita's Pupuseria (Grand Central Market)

• Description: Handmade Salvadoran pupusas with your choice of fillings, served with curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and salsa roja.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Located in the bustling Grand Central Market, Sarita's Pupuseria offers a taste of authentic Salvadoran comfort food. Yelp reviews praise the “freshly made” and “delicious” pupusas. Many reviewers note the generous portions and the variety of fillings available. As one Yelp user mentioned, "These pupusas are absolutely delicious and they're HUGE! Definitely a must try." It's a flavorful and filling meal that's incredibly budget-friendly.

• Price: Starting around $3-$4 per pupusa (depending on filling)

• Location: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (inside Grand Central Market)

4. Bánh Mì from My Dung

• Restaurant: My Dung

• Description: A classic Vietnamese sandwich featuring savory fillings like grilled pork, chicken, or pâté, with cilantro, jalapeño, shredded carrot, and pickled radish on a crusty French baguette.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: My Dung in Chinatown is a beloved spot for authentic and affordable Bánh Mì. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the freshness of the ingredients and the “crispy yet soft baguette.” A Reddit thread on LA cheap eats mentioned My Dung as a “go-to meal in LA under $10,” with users highlighting the generous size and delicious flavor. It's a perfect quick and satisfying meal.

• Price: ~$6

• Location: 900 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

5. Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice from KazuNori

• Restaurant: KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar

• Description: Finely chopped spicy tuna served atop crispy, warm rice squares.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: While KazuNori is known for its hand rolls, their Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice is a standout and, when ordered individually, can fit the under-$10 budget. Yelp reviewers consistently laud the “perfect texture” of the crispy rice and the “fresh, high-quality tuna.” Many describe it as a “must-order” appetizer that's bursting with flavor. It’s a more upscale bite that manages to stay budget-friendly if you order just a few pieces.

• Price: ~$6-7 per piece (check current menu for exact pricing)

• Location: Multiple locations across Los Angeles (e.g., 421 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013)

6. Original Chicken from Dino's Famous Chicken

• Restaurant: Dino's Famous Chicken

• Description: Their signature charbroiled chicken, marinated in a secret recipe, served with a side of their famous chili cheese fries.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Dino's has been an LA favorite for decades, known for its distinct, flavorful chicken. Yelpers consistently praise the “juicy chicken” and the “addictive chili cheese fries.” A TikTok video featuring "Top 10 Delicious Los Angeles Burgers Under $10" also mentions Dino's "hood mac" burger, but their chicken is the true star. Many reviewers comment on the generous portions, making it a truly satisfying meal for the price.

• Price: ~$7-$9 for a quarter chicken plate with fries (check current menu for exact pricing)

• Location: Multiple locations across Los Angeles (e.g., 2575 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006)

7. Two Slice Combo + Drink from Prime Pizza

• Restaurant: Prime Pizza

• Description: Two slices of New York-style pizza (choose from cheese or pepperoni) and a fountain drink.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: For a taste of New York in LA, Prime Pizza is a local favorite. PureWow's "16 Best Cheap Eats in Los Angeles for $10 or Less" highlights this combo as a "great deal, even for NYC standards." Yelp reviews frequently mention the “crispy crust” and “perfectly balanced sauce and cheese.” It's a quick, delicious, and undeniably satisfying option for a budget-conscious meal.

• Price: ~$10

• Location: Multiple locations across Los Angeles (e.g., 446 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036)

8. Breakfast Sausage Sandwich with Home Fries from Rutt's Café

• Restaurant: Rutt's Café

• Description: A hearty breakfast sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese, served with a side of crispy home fries.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Rutt's Hawaiian Cafe has been serving up comfort food since 1976. PureWow lists their breakfast sausage sandwich with home fries as a "filling start to the day." Yelp reviewers consistently praise the “delicious breakfast options” and the “local, diner feel.” It's a classic, no-frills breakfast that delivers on taste and value.

• Price: ~$9.45

• Location: 11707 Washington Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90066

9. Quesadilla from Sonoratown

• Restaurant: Sonoratown

• Description: A simple yet incredibly flavorful quesadilla made with their handmade flour tortillas and melted cheese, cooked over mesquite wood fire.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Sonoratown, known for its northern Mexican cuisine, offers a quesadilla that's a revelation in simplicity. The LA Times and PureWow both highlight this spot for its affordable and authentic flavors. Yelp reviewers rave about the “incredible flour tortillas” and the “smoky, rich flavor” from the mesquite grill. It's a testament to how quality ingredients and expert preparation can elevate a basic dish.

• Price: ~$4.50

• Location: 208 E 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

10. Crispy Carnitas Tacos from Bestia (Bar Menu)

• Restaurant: Bestia (Bar Menu)

• Description: While Bestia is a renowned upscale Italian restaurant, their bar menu often features a few smaller, more affordable bites, including occasional taco specials like crispy carnitas.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: This is a wild card, but sometimes, a high-end restaurant will offer incredibly delicious, smaller plates at their bar that fall under the $10 mark, giving you a taste of their culinary prowess without the full price tag. Yelp reviews for Bestia's bar menu, while less extensive for individual items, often mention the high quality of ingredients and innovative flavors. If you're lucky enough to catch a special, a single, perfectly crafted taco could be a memorable and budget-friendly experience. Always check their current bar menu as offerings can change.

• Price: Varies, but some small plates/tacos on the bar menu can be found for ~$8-10

• Location: 2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021

There you have it – ten incredible culinary experiences in Los Angeles, all for under $10! From iconic sandwiches to flavorful street tacos and hearty breakfast plates, these spots prove that delicious food doesn't have to break the bank, even in a city like LA. So, go forth and explore, savoring every budget-friendly bite the City of Angels has to offer!

Price Comparison Table

Dish	Restaurant	Price	Location
Half Original #19	Langer's Deli	$9-$10	704 S Alvarado St, Los Angeles, CA 90057
Al Pastor Taco	Leo's Tacos Truck	$2.25	Multiple locations (e.g., 1515 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019)
Pupusa	Sarita's Pupuseria	$3-$4	317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 (inside Grand Central Market)
Bánh Mì	My Dung	$6	900 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice	KazuNori	$6-$7	Multiple locations (e.g., 421 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90013)
Quarter Chicken Plate	Dino's Famous Chicken	$7-$9	Multiple locations (e.g., 2575 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006)
Two Slice Combo + Drink	Prime Pizza	$10	Multiple locations (e.g., 446 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036)
Breakfast Sausage Sandwich w/ Home Fries	Rutt's Café	$9.45	11707 Washington Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Quesadilla	Sonoratown	$4.50	208 E 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Crispy Carnitas Taco (Bar Menu)	Bestia	$8-$10	2121 E 7th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021