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 Jose
A Slice of New York
📍 Address: 3443 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95117
📞 Phone: (408) 247-5423
A Slice of New York in San Jose brings a taste of the Big Apple to the West Coast with authentic New York-style pizzas, garlic knots, and veggie stromboli. The cozy, NYC-themed atmosphere and friendly service make it a charming spot. Enjoy thin, crispy crusts, tangy tomato sauce, and generous cheese at a great value. It’s perfect for a quick, delicious meal that won’t break the bank.
Banh Beo ToLan
📍 Address: 2955 Senter Rd #55, San Jose, CA 95111
📞 Phone: (408) 270-6953
Banh Beo ToLan in San Jose, CA, is a hidden gem for affordable and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. This cozy eatery specializes in traditional bánh bèo, small steamed rice cakes topped with mung bean, dried shrimp, and green onion oil. The cash-only business offers a no-frills, take-out only experience, perfect for grabbing a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The dishes are crafted with care, making it a great value for the quality and flavor you receive.
California Wet Burrito
📍 Address: 6081 Meridian Ave #20, San Jose, CA 95120
📞 Phone: (408) 440-2697
California Wet Burrito in San Jose is a hidden gem for affordable and delicious Mexican cuisine. This cozy patio restaurant serves up flavorful burritos, tacos, and other favorites, all made with authentic Mexican rice, beans, and a variety of meats. The atmosphere is welcoming and bustling, with friendly servers. Standout dishes include their juicy carne asada and al pastor tacos, and their signature “Original 911” salsa verde. The portions are generous, making it a great value for the quality and quantity of food.
Dukhung Sandwiches
📍 Address: 1928 Aborn Rd, San Jose, CA 95121
📞 Phone: (408) 223-6828
Duc Huong Sandwiches in San Jose is a go-to spot for authentic Vietnamese cuisine at an affordable price. This casual eatery serves a variety of delicious bánh mì sandwiches, including grilled pork, chicken, and veggie options, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The soft, crispy bread and flavorful fillings make for a satisfying meal. Expect a lively atmosphere with often busy lines, but the staff keeps things moving efficiently. Standout dishes include the dac biet, a combination of cold cuts and pate, and their house-made bread.
Falafel’s Drive-In
📍 Address: 2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128
📞 Phone: (408) 294-7886
Falafel’s Drive-In in San Jose, CA, is a charming spot for affordable and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. This family-owned restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including crispy falafel sandwiches, gyros, and fresh salads, all made with high-quality ingredients. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and quick service make it a great option. Don’t miss the signature falafel sandwich and creamy banana milkshake, a perfect combo that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
In-N-Out
📍 Address: 2950 E Capitol Expy, San Jose, CA 95148
📞 Phone: (800) 786-1000
In-N-Out in San Jose, CA, is a go-to spot for delicious and affordable dining. Enjoy freshly made burgers with 100% American beef, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and their signature spread, all on toasted buns. Pair your meal with crispy French fries and a real ice cream shake. The clean, friendly atmosphere and efficient service make it a great value for a quick, satisfying meal.
Luna Mexican Kitchen
📍 Address: 78 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113
📞 Phone: (408) 971-2287
Luna Mexican Kitchen in San Jose is a gem for affordable dining. This vibrant spot serves authentic, farm-to-table Mexican cuisine, highlighting traditional recipes and ancestral methods like nixtamalization. Enjoy dishes like cochinita pibil, chile relleno picadillo, and fresh handmade tortillas in a lively cantina with a full-service bar and open-air patio. The focus on local, natural ingredients makes every meal a nutritious and flavorful treat.
Olioli Hawaiian BBQ
📍 Address: 1805 E Capitol Expy, San Jose, CA 95121
📞 Phone: (408) 292-0788
Olioli Hawaiian BBQ in San Jose offers a delicious and affordable dining experience. Their menu features slow-cooked meats, poultry, and seafood, all seasoned to perfection and served with a signature BBQ sauce. The casual yet upscale atmosphere makes it perfect for any gathering. Standout dishes include garlic shrimp, chicken katsu, and generous portions of mac salad, all providing great value for the price.
Zona Rosa
📍 Address: 1077 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126
📞 Phone: (408) 287-2400
Zona Rosa in San Jose, CA, offers a unique dining experience with its Mexican fusion cuisine, blending traditional flavors with fresh twists. The hacienda-like atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly service. Enjoy dishes like the Blue Corn Enchilada, blackened fish of the day, and crispy masa cakes. It’s a great value for delicious, creatively prepared meals in a welcoming setting.