Cheap Eats

Where to sip and snack for less

Feeling the pinch of higher prices but still want to eat good in the neighborhood? Ball out on a budget with this curated series of local cheap eats—find breakfast for under $10, lunch under $15 and dinner under $20. 

Breakfast: ~$10

Juicekeys
While a regular smoothie at this locally owned and family-run juice bar runs for $12, the oopskeys smoothie (aka a “we made too much” bev) will only set you back $6. The key to great health and the key to our wallet.

Brigs Restaurant
With its homey vibe and all-day brunch made with quality ingredients, Brigs has been dishing out affordable eats since 1988. From 7am–11am on weekdays, snag a three-egg omelette, grits and an English muffin for just $8.29. 

Jubala Coffee
Here’s the real unlock—find free espresso every Friday at this caffeine mainstay. Calm your coffee tick for free, and on any day of the week the bacon, fried egg and cheese biscuit comes in at $7.50. Throw on avocado if you’re feeling bougie (still under $10!).

Lunch:  ~$15

Guasaca
For a healthier op, get your fill with the grilled chicken bowl and add as many toppings as you like for just $10.95. Or, mix and match two of the signature arepas and still come out on top, er, below (!) the budget.

Roast Grill
Bring your cash, do not ask for ketchup and bask in the beauty of an ice-cold Coca-Cola and two of the famous hot dogs for $10 at this OG Oak City sup spot. 

Fullsteam
This Boxyard RTP watering hole almost has too many options for a steal, which is a real problem as they’re all delicious. Caesar salad graced with fried chicken? Turkey pesto sammie? Two quarter-cut slices of the square-cut pizza? All sub-$15.

Dinner: ~$20

Primo
Prime BBQ’s sister spot is open Wednesday–Friday nights from 5–8pm. Hang outside and see if you can finish the brisket nachos—a heaping plate of fresh tortilla chips piled high with Prime’s brisket, queso and other goodies—for $17. 

Vic’s Italian Restaurant 
It’s hard to go wrong with eggplant parm or fresh stuffed manicotti, especially when you can get out the door for $14.95. For even bigger savings, a massive pepperoni and cheese calzone is just $10.80. Finish out with a sweet treat of tiramisu at $6.95—if you have room in your stomach.

Zanyu Noodles
Slurp up savings when you dine at this Lafayette Village gem. The curry laksa noodle soup might make you sweat, but the bill comes in at a cool $15.50. NTM none of the entrees top $20—so ample opportunity for everyone to find something they’ll love.

Know a resto that serves up a bargain and didn’t make the list? Let us know at [email protected]