A visit to New York City is never complete without trying the vast melting pot of cuisines that make up its cafes and restaurants. It’s said that you can literally eat your way around the world without ever leaving the city, and that is definitely the truth. Luckily for foodies, budding gourmets and cost-conscious travelers, even if those flights to New York City cost you a pretty penny, these gastronomical trails can be traveled on a budget.
Manhattan
Mamoun’s
Just one of the NYC locations of this Middle East inspired eatery. Enjoy vegetarian favorites like falafel and hummus, along with heaping plates of shawarma and hand-carved roasted meat. Complete your meal with a side dish of fluffy saffron rice and a soft slice of pita bread.
Bill’s Bar and Burger
Bill’s Bar and Burger is well represented in NYC with locations on West Street and Rockefeller Center. Diners find their menu perfect any time of the day or night, and their creative list of artisan beers well worth the trip. While enjoying a meal, you’ll also be encompassed by a fun, bustling atmosphere and families with youngsters feel right at home.
Veselka
This Ukrainian restaurant located in the East Village features favorites and comfort foods from the “old country.” Diners flock here to scarf down big bowls of homemade beet borscht and several varieties of boiled pierogis. Best of all, a meal can be ordered with the bill not exceeding a crisp $20 bill.
by CHLOE
By CHLOE has recently gained tons of traction and attention, with new locations opening up across all of Manhattan and Brooklyn. This vegan cafe is the brainchild of Chef Chloe Coscarelli, as she creates new and classic dishes solely from plant-based ingredients. Casual and cozy, even meat lovers will find something on the menu to call their own.
Pi Bakerie
Delicious Greek food at affordable prices–a meal at Pi Bakery will have you wondering if your flights to New York City landed you in Greece instead! Try the yogurt, thick and sweet as vanilla frosting. Enjoy a fluffy slice of pie filled with savory spices. Sample several entrees with a combination plate, just save room for desserts like baklava drizzled with honey.
Queens
Homemade Taqueria
Artistically designed tortillas join authentic soups, salads and tacos in this Tacqueria. With four locations spanning from Corona to Astoria, Queens this spot has quickly gained popularity with diehard enthusiasts of Mexican food. True to their name, diners can enjoy freshly handmade tortillas with every meal!
Brooklyn
Spumoni Gardens
You haven’t tasted real Italian cuisine until you’ve visited this family owned and operated restaurant. A selection of sauces, seafood, pizza and chicken dishes complete the menu. Because almost everything on the menu is under $30, we know you’ll want to save room for their famous Spumoni ice cream.
Do you have a favorite “Cheap Eats” spot in New York City? Let us know, because we’re always looking for our next meal at the right price and excuse to book some flights to New York City!
