Best Food on a Budget in New York

This tiny Israeli restaurant serves some of the best falafel to be found in the city. Limited seating in the restaurant can be an issue, so when the weather is nice, take your food outside to the benches out front. The falafel platter is a favorite, and the sauces are sure to please. Wash it all down with some refreshing iced tea, fresh lemonade or a smoothie.

This brick-and-mortar establishment is home to Maria Piedad Cano’s Columbian corn cakes and other delectable creations. What began with the arepa lady plying her home-cooked meals on the streets, soon took the form of a thriving Columbian eatery at Queens. Here diners must savor the soft and sweet arepa de queso and the corn-flavored arepa de choclo. In addition to the flavorful, authentic meals, this pleasant restaurant offers a cozy space for families, groups and couples alike. When in Queens, near 37th Avenue, do head to Arepa Lady for a delightful Columbian meal.

The King of Falafel and Shawarma is not self-proclaimed royalty; the food stand has been the recipient of awards like the Vendy and People's Choice. The King caters to both vegans and meat lovers. The falafel, made with Freddy's mother's secret spices, is a vegan treat. If you want to grab a bite on the run, the chicken wrap and shish kebabs are for you; if a complete meal is what you want then you should definitely go for the chicken platter. This food stand really is the undisputed king of falafel and shawarma.

Since 1971, Mamoun's has been the spot to go when you need true falafel and shwarma made with tender loving care. Upon entering, Mamoun's staff is sure to remind you that they are one of the oldest Middle Eastern restaurants in the city and many locals claim the falafel here to be the best. Mamoun's has few other locations in the Tri-State area, rest assured however that each one maintains the highest quality ingredients and a strict adherence to tradition.

New York is notorious for its lack of authentic Mexican food, but there are still a few bright lights to be seen through the darkness, and Tacos El Bronco is one of them. Those willing to make the trip to Sunset Park will be rewarded with delicious tacos, tortas, burritos and platos heaped with juicy meats, beans, rice, tortillas and more. There is also a kids menu and a decent selection of snacks, appetizers, salads, hamburgers and seafood. Tacos El Bronco also has a few food trucks which can be found around the area, always with a small crowd waiting to gobble up these delicious foods.

Nestled in the heart of the West Village, this casual American bar and restaurant is open till late (usually until 4a) and serves cheap, casual fare. The greasy but tasty burgers and fries are what makes this place popular. A friendly spot, Corner Bistro caters to a diverse crowd of downtown denizens as well as the college types who party on Bleecker Street. This is a cash only joint, but at these prices, you should have no problem paying the bill.

The name of this restaurant comes from the founder Brian Shebairo trying to say the name of his friend and co-founder Chris, while eating a hotdog. An absolute must for those who love franks, Crif Dogs has upped the ante with its handmade, naturally smoked wieners. They also serve some amazing burgers and shakes, but most come for the dogs. Try the Spicy Redneck, a bacon wrapped masterpiece topped with cole slaw and jalapenos.