Raleigh, North Carolina, a city brimming with vibrant culture, innovative tech, and Southern charm, also boasts a fantastic food scene that won't empty your wallet. From downtown's bustling streets to the quieter, charming neighborhoods, Raleigh offers a smorgasbord of budget-friendly dishes that are big on flavor and local character. We've dug deep into local favorites and customer reviews to bring you a list of 10 must-try meals, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the heart of Raleigh's culinary spirit.

1. Chicken and Waffles (Small) from State of Beer

• Restaurant: State of Beer

• Description: Crispy fried chicken pieces served alongside a perfectly golden waffle, drizzled with syrup.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: State of Beer is a popular downtown spot known for its extensive tap list and surprisingly delicious food. Yelp reviewers praise their “fluffy waffles” and “well-seasoned chicken.” Many mention the cozy atmosphere and the fact that even smaller plates are incredibly satisfying. It's a great spot for a casual meal with local flair.

• Price: ~$9 (for the smaller portion)

• Location: 401 W Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27603

2. Classic Hot Dog from The Roast Grill

• Restaurant: The Roast Grill

• Description: A perfectly grilled hot dog, served plain or with mustard, chili, and onions. No ketchup allowed!

• Why It’s a Must-Try: The Roast Grill is a Raleigh legend, famous for its no-frills approach to hot dogs since 1940. Yelp reviewers consistently highlight the “crispy, perfectly charred dogs” and the “old-school diner atmosphere.” One reviewer called it a “true Raleigh experience” with “the best chili.” It's a taste of history and a truly unique hot dog joint.

• Price: ~$3 per hot dog (prices for chili/onions may be extra)

• Location: 7 S West St, Raleigh, NC 27603

3. Cheese Slice from Trophy Pizza

• Restaurant: Trophy Pizza

• Description: A generous slice of classic New York-style cheese pizza with a crispy crust.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: While Trophy Brewing is known for its beers, their pizza arm, Trophy Pizza, serves up some of the best slices in town. Yelp reviewers frequently praise the “great crust” and “perfect sauce-to-cheese ratio.” Many consider it a “go-to for a quick, delicious lunch.” It's a solid, satisfying slice that stands on its own.

• Price: ~$4.50

• Location: 656 Maywood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603

4. Mediterranean Salad (Small) from Neomonde Mediterranean

• Restaurant: Neomonde Mediterranean

• Description: A fresh small salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives, with a house vinaigrette.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Neomonde is a beloved institution for fresh and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Their small salads are a perfect lighter option, packed with fresh ingredients. Yelp reviewers praise the “crisp vegetables” and “flavorful dressings.” It's a great choice for a healthy and affordable lunch.

• Price: ~$7-$8

• Location: 1023 Corporation Pkwy, Raleigh, NC 27610

5. Two Taco Combo from Gonza Tacos y Tequila (Lunch Special)

• Restaurant: Gonza Tacos y Tequila

• Description: Two street-style tacos (e.g., carnitas, pollo) with rice and beans (check for specific lunch special availability and price).

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Gonza is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious Colombian-inspired Mexican food. Their lunch taco specials can often get you a satisfying meal under $10. Yelp reviewers frequently rave about the “flavorful fillings” and “fresh ingredients.” It's a great way to experience a popular Raleigh spot on a budget.

• Price: ~$9-$10 (check current lunch special pricing)

• Location: Multiple locations in Raleigh (e.g., 7713 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615)

6. Mini Burger from Char-Grill

• Restaurant: Char-Grill

• Description: A small, classic grilled burger with your choice of simple toppings, cooked over charcoal.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Char-Grill is a Raleigh institution, serving up charcoal-grilled burgers since 1959. Their mini burger is a perfect budget-friendly bite. Yelp reviewers love the “smoky flavor” and the “nostalgic drive-in feel.” It's a simple, honest burger that consistently hits the spot for a quick and cheap meal.

• Price: ~$4-$5 (for the mini burger)

• Location: Multiple locations in Raleigh (e.g., 618 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603)

7. A Cup of Jo from Jubala Coffee

• Restaurant: Jubala Coffee

• Description: A freshly brewed cup of their ethically sourced, high-quality coffee.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: While not a full meal, a great cup of coffee can be a delightful and affordable treat. Jubala is renowned for its expertly crafted coffee. Yelp reviewers rave about the “rich flavor” and the “cozy atmosphere.” It's the perfect way to fuel your day or enjoy a quiet moment without spending a lot.

• Price: ~$3-$5 (for a brewed coffee)

• Location: Multiple locations in Raleigh (e.g., 2100 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607)

8. Classic Gyro from Tasu Asian Bistro

• Restaurant: Tasu Asian Bistro

• Description: Slices of seasoned beef and lamb, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce, wrapped in a warm pita.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Despite being an Asian bistro, Tasu offers surprisingly good and affordable Greek options, including a solid gyro. Yelp reviewers mention the “generous portions” and the “fresh ingredients.” It's a convenient and tasty option for a quick Mediterranean fix.

• Price: ~$8-$9

• Location: 4208 Six Forks Rd #100, Raleigh, NC 27609

9. Single Scoop Ice Cream from Two Roosters Ice Cream

• Restaurant: Two Roosters Ice Cream

• Description: A single scoop of their premium, handcrafted ice cream in a rotating array of unique flavors.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Two Roosters is a local favorite known for its creative and delicious ice cream flavors, often inspired by local collaborations. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the “creamy texture” and the “inventive flavors.” It's a perfect way to satisfy a sweet craving with a local treat.

• Price: ~$5-$6

• Location: Multiple locations in Raleigh (e.g., 7713 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615)

10. Sausage Ball from Yellow Dog Bread Company

• Restaurant: Yellow Dog Bread Company

• Description: A savory, baked pastry featuring sausage, cheese, and biscuit-like dough.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Yellow Dog Bread Company is a beloved local bakery known for its artisanal breads and pastries. Their sausage balls are a comforting and delicious bite, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Yelp reviewers often highlight the “flaky texture” and “savory flavor.” It's a true taste of local Raleigh baking.

• Price: ~$3-$4

• Location: 219 E Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27604

Raleigh's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag. From classic local hot dogs at The Roast Grill to unique ice cream flavors at Two Roosters, 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 Raleigh's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish	Restaurant	Price (Approx.)	Location
Chicken and Waffles (Small)	State of Beer	$9	401 W Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Classic Hot Dog	The Roast Grill	$3	7 S West St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Cheese Slice	Trophy Pizza	$4.50	656 Maywood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603
Mediterranean Salad (Small)	Neomonde Mediterranean	$7-$8	1023 Corporation Pkwy, Raleigh, NC 27610
Two Taco Combo (Lunch)	Gonza Tacos y Tequila	$9-$10	Multiple locations in Raleigh
Mini Burger	Char-Grill	$4-$5	Multiple locations in Raleigh
A Cup of Jo	Jubala Coffee	$3-$5	Multiple locations in Raleigh
Classic Gyro	Tasu Asian Bistro	$8-$9	4208 Six Forks Rd #100, Raleigh, NC 27609
Single Scoop Ice Cream	Two Roosters Ice Cream	$5-$6	Multiple locations in Raleigh
Sausage Ball	Yellow Dog Bread Company	$3-$4	219 E Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27604