Seattle, Washington, a city famous for its tech innovation, lush landscapes, and thriving coffee culture, also offers an incredibly diverse and delicious food scene that doesn't demand a hefty price tag. Beyond the well-known Pike Place Market and gourmet establishments, Seattle's neighborhoods are packed 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 Emerald City.

1. Single Donut from Top Pot Doughnuts

  • Restaurant: Top Pot Doughnuts

  • Description: A handcrafted, old-fashioned, cake, or raised doughnut, known for its dense yet tender texture and rich glazes.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Top Pot is a Seattle icon, renowned for its artisanal doughnuts and classic coffeehouse ambiance. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the “perfectly moist” and “not-too-sweet” doughnuts, with many calling them the best in the city. One reviewer noted, “A single doughnut for under $4 is a perfect little luxury.” It's a quintessential Seattle treat that offers a taste of local craftsmanship.

  • Price: ~$3-$4

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 2124 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121)

2. Pork Bun from Mee Sum Pastry (Pike Place Market)

  • Restaurant: Mee Sum Pastry (Pike Place Market)

  • Description: A fluffy steamed bun filled with savory, barbecued char siu pork.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Nestled in the iconic Pike Place Market, Mee Sum Pastry is a beloved local spot for affordable and authentic Chinese pastries. Yelp reviewers frequently highlight the “perfectly steamed buns” and “flavorful pork filling.” Many consider their pork bun a “must-try snack” when visiting the market, offering a delicious and incredibly budget-friendly bite.

  • Price: ~$3-$4

  • Location: 1526 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101

3. Regular Fries from Dick's Drive-In

  • Restaurant: Dick's Drive-In

  • Description: A generous serving of fresh, hand-cut, skin-on French fries, cooked to golden perfection.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Dick's Drive-In is a legendary Seattle institution, serving up classic American fast food with a local twist since 1954. While their burgers are also famous, their fries are a standout. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the “crispy exterior and soft interior” of their fries, with many calling them “addicting.” It's a taste of Seattle history and a perfectly satisfying snack or side.

  • Price: ~$2.50

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 111 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105)

4. Falafel Sandwich from Mr. Gyros (Wallingford)

  • Restaurant: Mr. Gyros (Wallingford)

  • Description: Crispy falafel patties, fresh vegetables, and creamy tahini sauce wrapped in warm pita bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Mr. Gyros is a highly-rated local spot known for its authentic Greek and Mediterranean flavors. Their falafel sandwich is a vegetarian delight that's both flavorful and filling. Yelp reviewers rave about the “perfectly crispy falafel” and “fresh, vibrant ingredients.” It's a beloved neighborhood spot that offers great value for a delicious and healthy-ish meal.

  • Price: ~$9

  • Location: 5520 20th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107

5. Slice of Pizza from Big Mario's New York Style Pizza

  • Restaurant: Big Mario's New York Style Pizza

  • Description: A large, classic New York-style pizza slice with a perfectly chewy crust and simple, delicious toppings (cheese or pepperoni).

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Big Mario's is a Seattle staple for authentic New York-style pizza. Yelp reviewers praise the “perfectly foldable slices” and “great sauce-to-cheese ratio.” Many consider it the go-to spot for a late-night bite or a quick, satisfying lunch. It's a no-nonsense, delicious slice that hits the spot every time.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per slice

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 1000 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122)

6. Classic Hamburger from Lunchbox Laboratory (Small)

  • Restaurant: Lunchbox Laboratory

  • Description: A smaller version of their classic hamburger with a custom-ground patty, served on a toasted bun.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Lunchbox Laboratory is known for its inventive, "mad science" approach to burgers. While many of their specialty burgers can be pricier, their basic, smaller hamburger offers a taste of their high-quality patties. Yelp reviewers consistently highlight the “juicy burgers” and the “fresh ingredients.” It's a solid, well-made burger that's perfect for a quick and affordable meal.

  • Price: ~$8-$9 (for the "Mini-Burger" or similar basic option)

  • Location: 1253 Thomas St, Seattle, WA 98109

7. Vietnamese Iced Coffee from Phô Bac

  • Restaurant: Phô Bac

  • Description: Strong brewed coffee mixed with sweetened condensed milk, served over ice.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Phô Bac is a foundational pho restaurant in Seattle, with a long history in the city's Vietnamese community. Beyond their delicious pho, their Vietnamese iced coffee is a refreshing and energizing treat. Yelp reviewers describe it as “perfectly sweet and strong” and an “excellent pick-me-up.” It's a classic Southeast Asian beverage that offers fantastic flavor and a caffeine kick.

  • Price: ~$4.50-$5.50

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 1240 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98144)

8. A Single Cookie from Macrina Bakery

  • Restaurant: Macrina Bakery

  • Description: A large, freshly baked cookie, with flavors like chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or ginger molasses.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Macrina Bakery is a beloved Seattle institution, known for its artisan breads and delectable pastries. Their cookies are a popular choice for a sweet treat that's well under $10. Yelp reviewers praise the “chewy texture” and “rich flavors.” It's a perfect indulgent snack or dessert to enjoy with a coffee.

  • Price: ~$3-$4

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 2408 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121)

9. Single Mini Cupcake from Cupcake Royale

  • Restaurant: Cupcake Royale

  • Description: A charming mini cupcake in a variety of creative and classic flavors, topped with delightful frosting.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Cupcake Royale was Seattle's first cupcake bakery and remains a local favorite for its gourmet cupcakes. While full-sized cupcakes can be a bit more, their mini versions offer a sweet bite for well under $10. Yelp reviewers rave about the “moist cakes” and “delicious, not-too-sweet frosting.” It's a perfect small indulgence to brighten your day.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 (for a mini cupcake)

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 4349 University Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105)

10. A La Carte Bao from Dough Zone Dumpling House

  • Restaurant: Dough Zone Dumpling House

  • Description: A single steamed or pan-fried bun filled with savory ingredients like pork or vegetables.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Dough Zone has gained significant popularity for its authentic Shanghainese dumplings and dim sum, with multiple locations that still feel very local. While a full order of dumplings might be over $10, a single bao bun offers a delicious and affordable taste. Yelp reviewers consistently praise the “flavorful fillings” and “perfectly cooked dough” of their various bao and dumplings. It's a great way to sample their highly-rated offerings.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per bao

  • Location: Multiple locations in Seattle (e.g., 504 5th Ave S, Ste 108, Seattle, WA 98104)

Seattle'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 doughnuts and market-fresh pork buns to classic drive-in fries and gourmet mini-cupcakes, 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