Traveling or dining out on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or quality. Around the world, there are plenty of incredible restaurants that serve up delicious meals at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for local cuisine or a budget-friendly bite, here are some of the best restaurants to visit when you want great food without breaking the bank.
1. Le Bouillon Chartier – Paris, France
For a taste of traditional French cuisine that won’t cost a fortune, Le Bouillon Chartier is an iconic spot in Paris. The restaurant offers classic French dishes like escargot, steak frites, and crème caramel at incredibly affordable prices. Despite the low prices, the quality remains high, making it one of the best budget-friendly options in the city.
Signature Dish: Steak Frites
Location: 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, Paris
Website: Le Bouillon Chartier
2. Xi’an Famous Foods – New York, USA
Serving the bold flavors of Western China, Xi’an Famous Foods is a beloved spot in New York City for budget-conscious foodies. Specializing in hand-pulled noodles and flavorful, spicy dishes like lamb burgers and biang biang noodles, this is the place to go for an affordable, satisfying meal in the city.
Signature Dish: Spicy Lamb Noodles
Location: Multiple Locations, New York
Website: Xi’an Famous Foods
3. Tim Ho Wan – Hong Kong
Known as the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant, Tim Ho Wan is a dim sum lover’s dream. With its famously low prices, this budget-friendly restaurant serves delicious dumplings, pork buns, and other traditional Cantonese dishes in a casual setting.
Signature Dish: BBQ Pork Buns
Location: 9-11 Fuk Wing St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong
Website: Tim Ho Wan
4. La Taquería – Mexico City, Mexico
For an authentic and affordable taste of Mexican street food, La Taquería in Mexico City is a local favorite. Known for its incredible tacos, including al pastor and carne asada, the flavors here are rich and the prices are low, making it the perfect spot for a budget meal.
Signature Dish: Tacos al Pastor
Location: Calle Centenario 115, Coyoacán, Mexico City
Website: N/A
5. Banh Mi Huynh Hoa – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Vietnam is renowned for its street food culture, and Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is a prime example of a budget-friendly restaurant serving high-quality fare. Their signature banh mi, a baguette filled with layers of meats, vegetables, and sauces, is one of the best in the city and costs just a few dollars.
Signature Dish: Banh Mi Sandwich
Location: 26 Lê Thị Riêng, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Website: N/A
6. Guzman y Gomez – Sydney, Australia
For fresh and affordable Mexican food in Australia, Guzman y Gomez is a go-to. With locations all over Sydney, this casual eatery serves up tacos, burritos, and bowls with authentic flavors at budget-friendly prices. It’s a great spot for a quick, delicious meal on the go.
Signature Dish: Burrito Bowl
Location: Multiple Locations, Sydney
Website: Guzman y Gomez
7. La Casa de Toño – Mexico City, Mexico
Another fantastic spot for affordable Mexican cuisine, La Casa de Toño is known for its traditional pozole, a rich and flavorful soup made from hominy and pork, topped with fresh herbs, lime, and radishes. The portions are generous, and the prices are unbeatable, making it a must-visit for travelers on a budget.
Signature Dish: Pozole
Location: Multiple Locations, Mexico City
Website: La Casa de Toño
8. Banana Leaf Apolo – Singapore
Singapore can be pricey, but Banana Leaf Apolo offers an affordable way to enjoy the flavors of South India. The restaurant is famous for its fish head curry, which is served in large portions at a reasonable price. The dishes are served on banana leaves, adding to the authentic dining experience.
Signature Dish: Fish Head Curry
Location: 54 Race Course Rd, Singapore
Website: Banana Leaf Apolo
9. El Huacatay – Urubamba, Peru
For a taste of Peru that’s easy on the wallet, El Huacatay offers a variety of traditional Andean dishes in a cozy setting. The menu includes local favorites like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef) and aji de gallina (spicy chicken stew), all at affordable prices, making it a popular choice for both locals and travelers.
Signature Dish: Lomo Saltado
Location: Jiron Arica 620, Urubamba, Peru
Website: N/A
10. Din Tai Fung – Taipei, Taiwan
A favorite among travelers and locals alike, Din Tai Fung is known for its delicate, handmade xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Despite being a globally recognized chain, the prices remain affordable, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy high-quality dumplings without breaking the bank.
Signature Dish: Xiao Long Bao
Location: 194 Xinyi Road, Taipei
Website: Din Tai Fung
Conclusion
Finding delicious food on a budget is possible in almost every corner of the world. Whether you’re in search of authentic street food in Mexico City or Michelin-starred dim sum in Hong Kong, these budget-friendly restaurants prove that you can enjoy incredible flavors without spending a fortune. Add these spots to your travel itinerary, and savor the best meals at the best prices!
