Looking for affordable places to eat in this area? You’ve come to the right place! Browse through our curated list of budget-friendly restaurants, casual eateries, and hidden gems below. From quick bites to sit-down meals, we’ve gathered options to satisfy your cravings while keeping your wallet happy.
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The Best Cheap Food in San Diego
The Blind Burro
📍 Address: 8960 Fletcher Pkwy B, La Mesa, CA 91942
📞 Phone: (619) 825-7131
The Blind Burro in San Diego’s East Village offers a vibrant cantina experience with a diverse menu blending traditional Mexican and fresh seafood options. Enjoy flavorful dishes like the Birria Burro-ito, Pozole, and Power Bowl, all made with fresh ingredients. The casual, rustic atmosphere and full bar make it a great spot for any occasion. With generous portions and a range of options, it’s an excellent value for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Chef Budda Blasian Soul Food
📍 Address: 3151 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
📞 Phone: (619) 866-1443
Chef Budda Blasian Soul Food in San Diego’s North Park offers a delicious blend of soul food with Asian twists, making for a unique and comforting dining experience. The menu features affordable options like fried shrimp, chicken eggrolls, and catfish nuggets, all packed with flavor. The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
The Crack Shack - Little Italy
📍 Address: 4242 Camino Del Rio N #28, San Diego, CA 92108
📞 Phone: (877) 230-1835
The Crack Shack in Little Italy, San Diego, offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on high-quality, locally-sourced chicken. Enjoy creative sandwiches, signature fried chicken, and flavorful bowls, all made with fresh and nutritious ingredients. The atmosphere is lively, with an outdoor patio featuring a firepit, bocce ball court, and craft cocktails. It’s a great value for affordable, tasty meals in a fun and casual setting.
El Carrito Restaurant
📍 Address: 2154 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
📞 Phone: (619) 501-0095
El Carrito in San Diego is a charming, affordable dining spot housed in a vintage trolley car. It serves a variety of traditional Mexican and breakfast dishes, including chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, tortas, and burritos. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with outdoor seating available. Standout dishes include personalized omelets and flavorful tacos, all made with fresh ingredients at a great value.
Empanada Kitchen
📍 Address: 2855 El Cajon Blvd Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92104
📞 Phone: (619) 228-9565
Empanada Kitchen in San Diego is a cozy, veteran-owned Argentine restaurant serving a variety of handmade empanadas, from traditional beef and ham and cheese to innovative options like sweet corn and basil, and vegan ratatouille. Enjoy crispy, juicy empanadas paired with fresh chimichurri sauces in a bright, welcoming atmosphere with outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi, making it a great value for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Kebab Shop
📍 Address: 1570 Camino De La Reina, San Diego, CA 92108
📞 Phone: (619) 491-0279
The Kebab Shop in San Diego is a go-to for delicious and affordable Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy grilled kebabs, fresh salads, and crispy sides, all made with high-quality ingredients. The casual atmosphere is perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. Standout options include the Famous Charred Flatbread and Crave Fries, all offered at a great value that won’t break the bank.
King and Queen Cantina
📍 Address: 1490 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
📞 Phone: (619) 756-7864
King and Queen Cantina in San Diego offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a delicious and affordable dining experience. The menu features innovative Mexican cuisine with dishes like short rib benedict, breakfast tinga taquitos, and creative burritos. Enjoy a range of tasty options at great value, along with a variety of unique cocktails and a lively happy hour scene.
Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails
📍 Address: 1290 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
📞 Phone: (619) 542-9155
Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails in San Diego offers a vibrant and modern dining experience with a focus on authentic, chef-driven Mexican cuisine. Enjoy inventive tacos made with freshly crafted tortillas, creative marinades, and thoughtful salsa blends. The atmosphere is light-filled and trendy, with friendly service and skilled bartenders. Standout dishes include the Steak Taco and Pork Belly Al Pastor, all at a value that makes it an excellent affordable dining option.
Lucky’s Lunch Counter
📍 Address: 338 Seventh Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
📞 Phone: (619) 255-4782
Lucky’s Lunch Counter in San Diego is a cozy, nostalgic spot serving up hearty, affordable meals. Enjoy over-stuffed sandwiches, high-quality hot dogs, build-your-own salads, and traditional breakfast fare in a fun, easy-going atmosphere. Standout dishes include the Bases Loaded Burrito, Turkey Club, and Chipotle Chicken Sandwich. It’s a great value for a delicious meal that feels like home.
Pokez Mexican Restaurant
📍 Address: 947 E St, San Diego, CA 92101
📞 Phone: (619) 702-7160
Pokez Mexican Restaurant in San Diego is a gem for affordable and delicious dining. This vegan-friendly spot serves authentic Mexican dishes, from massive burritos to customizable tacos, all made with love and using high-quality, organic ingredients when possible. The atmosphere is chill, with a jukebox and friendly service. Enjoy generous portions, free chips and salsa, and a variety of beverages, all at a great value.