The Best Cheap Eats in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in America, and with a history as long as its, it’s no surprise that it’s a foodie haven. It’s an incredibly diverse city, with hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving up delicious cuisine from all over the world. And, luckily for those of us on a budget, there are plenty of great cheap eats too. Whether you’re looking for a classic Philly cheesesteak, a tasty Mexican meal, or a hearty Italian dinner, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings in Philly. Here’s our guide to the best cheap eats in Philadelphia.

Cheesesteaks

No trip to Philadelphia would be complete without trying a classic cheesesteak. And luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to get one. There are plenty of places in the city that serve up delicious, reasonably-priced cheesesteaks. One of the best spots is Pat’s King of Steaks, which has been serving up this Philly staple since 1930. Pat’s is renowned for their thin-sliced steak, which is smothered in cheese and served on a freshly-baked Italian roll. Other great spots for a tasty cheesesteak on a budget include Sonny’s Famous Steaks, Jim’s Steaks, and Geno’s Steaks.

Mexican

Philadelphia offers some fantastic Mexican eats. One of the best spots for Mexican cuisine on a budget is El Vez, a stylish restaurant in the heart of the city. El Vez serves up a wide range of Mexican dishes, from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and tamales. And best of all, their prices are incredibly affordable. Another great spot for Mexican food is La Calaca Feliz, which serves up traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist. They also have a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as some delicious margaritas.

Italian

If Italian food is more your thing, you’re in luck. Philadelphia is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in the country, and many of them offer great value for money. One of the best spots for Italian on a budget is Osteria, a cozy Italian eatery in the heart of the city. Osteria serves up classic Italian dishes, with a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. They also have an extensive wine list and a wide range of Italian desserts. Other great spots for Italian on a budget include Amis Trattoria, Villa di Roma, and La Viola.

Seafood

Philadelphia is a great spot for seafood lovers. The city is home to some of the freshest seafood in the country, and it doesn’t have to be expensive either. One of the best spots for seafood on a budget is Fette Sau, a casual bar and restaurant in Fishtown. Fette Sau serves up a wide range of seafood dishes, from po’boy sandwiches to crab cakes. They also have an extensive selection of craft beers and some delicious cocktails. Another great spot for seafood on a budget is The Oyster House, which has been serving up fresh seafood for over 40 years.

Pizza

Philadelphia is known for its delicious pizza, and luckily, it doesn’t have to be expensive. One of the best spots for pizza on a budget is Pizzeria Vetri, a cozy Italian restaurant in the heart of the city. Pizzeria Vetri serves up classic Italian-style pizzas, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. Other great spots for pizza on a budget include Pizza Brain, Pizza Rustica, and Pizza Gutt.

Burger Joints

If you’re looking for a great burger on a budget, you’re in luck. Philadelphia is home to some of the best burger joints in the country. One of the best spots for burgers on a budget is P.J. Clarke’s, a cozy bar and restaurant in Center City. P.J. Clarke’s serves up juicy burgers with a unique twist, as well as a wide range of beers and cocktails. Another great spot for burgers on a budget is Johnny Brenda’s, a cozy pub in the heart of the city. Johnny Brenda’s serves up delicious burgers, as well as a wide range of beers and cocktails.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Philadelphia is a great spot for vegetarians and vegans. There are plenty of restaurants in the city that serve up delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes on a budget. One of the best spots for vegetarian and vegan food is Vedge, a stylish restaurant in the heart of the city. Vedge serves up a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, from salads and sandwiches to curries and stews. They also have an extensive wine and beer list, as well as some delicious desserts. Other great spots for vegetarian and vegan food on a budget include HipCityVeg, Govinda’s Garden Cafe, and Horizons.

Asian

Philadelphia is home to some of the best Asian restaurants in the country, and many of them offer great value for money. One of the best spots for Asian cuisine on a budget is Chatayee Thai, a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city. Chatayee Thai serves up a wide range of traditional Thai dishes, from spicy curries to noodle dishes. They also have an extensive selection of beers and wines, as well as some delicious desserts. Other great spots for Asian food on a budget include Dim Sum Garden, Sang Kee Peking Duck House, and Han Dynasty.

Middle Eastern

Philadelphia is home to some great Middle Eastern restaurants, and many of them offer great value for money. One of the best spots for Middle Eastern food on a budget is Zahav, a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city. Zahav serves up a wide range of traditional Israeli dishes, from falafel to shawarma. They also have an extensive selection of wines and beers, as well as some delicious desserts. Other great spots for Middle Eastern food on a budget include Dizengoff, Marrakesh, and Suraya.

Coffee Shops

Philadelphia is home to some of the best coffee shops in the country, and many of them offer great value for money. One of the best spots for coffee on a budget is La Colombe, a cozy cafe in the heart of the city. La Colombe serves up freshly-brewed coffee, as well as a wide range of pastries and sandwiches. They also have an extensive selection of teas and hot chocolate, as well as some delicious desserts. Other great spots for coffee on a budget include Rival Bros Coffee, ReAnimator Coffee, and Ultimo Coffee.

Diners

Philadelphia is home to some classic diners, and many of them offer great value for money. One of the best spots for diner food on a budget is Melrose Diner, a cozy diner in the heart of the city. Melrose Diner serves up classic diner fare, from burgers and fries to omelettes and pancakes. They also have an extensive selection of beers and wines, as well as some delicious desserts. Other great spots for diner food on a budget include Green Eggs Cafe, South Street Diner, and Continental Diner.

Desserts

Philadelphia is home to some of the best desserts in the country, and many of them offer great value for money. One of the best spots for desserts on a budget is Little Baby’s Ice Cream, a cozy ice cream parlor in the heart of the city. Little Baby’s Ice Cream serves up delicious ice cream, as well as a wide range of vegan and gluten-free options. They also have an extensive selection of milkshakes and sundaes, as well as some delicious cakes and pies. Other great spots for desserts on a budget include Franklin Fountain, Capogiro Gelato, and Sweet Freedom Bakery.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is a great city for food lovers, and there’s no shortage of delicious, affordable eats. Whether you’re looking for a classic Philly cheesesteak, a tasty Mexican meal, or a hearty Italian dinner, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings in Philly. So, the next time you’re in the City of Brotherly Love, be sure to check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Philadelphia. Bon Appétit!