While there are plenty of waffle houses and burger chains dotting the south, visiting Atlanta on a budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for deep fried fast food. Whether you’re low on cash or just not in the mood to splurge, your taste buds won’t know the difference between these fun, local flavors and a 5-star restaurant. Foodies unite! These joints will give you lip-smacking delights for under $10.
Fat Matt’s Rib Shack
If you’re craving ribs or barbecue but don’t want to spend $40 for a spread, Fat Matt’s has some delectable solutions. You can get a mouthwatering barbecue sandwich and one or two sides for under $10. Diners compare this barbecue to the best they’ve had in Texas, thanks to the high-quality, pull apart meat and tangy sauces. Nightly live blues music is a nice bonus that makes this venue an all-around great value.
Chef Liu
This little restaurant is a gem for its authentic Chinese, unique menu and low prices. Nearly everything on the menu is less than $10, and it’s a great place to share a variety of small dishes with friends. Chef Liu is nestled in the Pinetree Shopping Center, and is famous for its wide assortment of delicious dumplings. From cold sesame noodles to lamb kebabs, there are plenty of other choices to enjoy. You will probably want to visit this place twice during your trip – and bonus! Unlike most Chinese restaurants, they’re open for breakfast.
Crazy Cuban Sandwiches
If you love Cuban sandwiches, you know how hard it is to find a good one, and one for a decent price? Even harder. The Crazy Cuban claims to have the best hot-pressed Cuban sandwiches outside of Havana, and this just may be true. The menu has several sandwich choices, sides, drinks and dessert. You can easily get a half sandwich, a side and a drink for under $10. We recommend the Classic Cuban: Hot Cuban bread, quality ham, Swiss, mustard, pickles, lettuce, tomato, and jalapeno. A bit of a kick, just the way a Cuban should be.
Mi Barrio Restaurante Mexicano
This family-owned restaurant serves a splay of authentic Mexican dishes – and according to locals, also has the best horchata in town, perfect for a hot summer day. You can pick a combo plate or several of your favorite scrumptious a-la-carte dishes for under $10. There is a full bar if you want to enjoy some tasty drinks after dinner, or just come to eat and enjoy the free wi-fi. Try the fresh ceviche or pozole, seasoned to perfection with a side of white corn.
Atlanta Food Truck Park
Chasing food trucks around an unfamiliar city is for the birds. In Atlanta, the best way to have your pick of culinary sensations from food trucks is to visit the Atlanta Food Truck Park on Howell Mill Road. There are several acres of space where food trucks with all types of affordable creations park. We recommend The Cake Crate Co’s mini pound cakes and One Love Jerk Girl for the best chicken in town. Be sure to also browse the local art displays and pick up some fresh produce for the next day’s breakfast at the market before you leave.
Foodies don’t need to break the bank in Atlanta. With hole-in-the-wall restaurants dotting every neighborhood, you’ll find excellent ratings for a great price.
One thing’s for sure: You won’t leave Atlanta hungry.
