Best Cheap Eats in Houston | Image Credit – Sur Latin Peruvian Cuisine FB Page
Looking for Cheap Eats in the Houston area? We have you covered with this comprehensive roundup.
Sometimes you’re looking for the best places to eat…sometimes you want awesome prices, too! We’re bringing you the biggest, most up-to-date lineup of Cheap Places to Eat in Houston in 2019. For even more savings, check out our kids eat-free guide!
Editor’s note: Our staff tries to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, please confirm before you head out.
Deal Alert – Enjoy the lowest price on the Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston
Foodies wanted! Come enjoy diverse plates in the heart of Downtown Houston at some of the city’s most famous restaurants. This tour will begin at the Historic Market Square Park (outside Niko Niko’s) where you will learn about Houston’s rich history, beautiful architecture, & diversity of cultures. Guests will enjoy first-hand views of the tallest building in Texas & the Downtown Tunnel System (1/3 of the tour spent in tunnels) in the USA.
The tour consists of 3 stops where you will try 6-7 delicious food samplings including authentic Mexico City cuisine, traditional Asian novelties, Houston’s unique take on Italian-American, & dessert. These meals are pre-ordered & will be coming out nice & fresh for your whole group.
Get more information and book your Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston TODAY!!!
Cheap Eats in Houston: Affordable Places To Eat in Inner Loop
Doshi House
Image Credit: The Doshi House FB Page
This is THE spot for cheap vegan fare. Their coffees and vegetarian goodness are raved about by vegans and omnivores alike. Their evening meals start at just $7.
Where: 3419 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77004
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday & Saturday 7:30 am – 5:00 pm | Thursday – Friday 7:30 am – 9:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
B & T Cafe
This Vietnamese shop offers a broad selection of baguette sandwiches, pho, rice, a full tea bar, and more, making it one of our favorite cheap restaurants in Houston.
Where: 2007 W Alabama St, Houston, Texas 77098
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Sunday 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Brothers Taco House
No frills, just tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and other Mexican comfort foods. Plates are $4 and under and tacos are even cheaper.
Where: 1604 Emancipation Ave. Houston, TX 77003
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 3:00 pm | Saturday 6:00 am – 1:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
Carter & Cooley (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)
This is one of the hottest to-g0 delicatessens in Houston. They offer a wide variety of sandwiches starting at just $10.50.
Montrose Food Tour – 3 Delicious Venues – Just $96.99 for 2 adults
Montrose is one of Houston’s most atmospheric neighborhoods and home to a diverse selection of restaurants, serving cuisine from all around the globe. On this tour, tuck into a delicious 3-course dinner with each course served at a different restaurant. Each destination is a popular local establishment and dishes might include Mexican, Italian, and local Houstonian specialties, ensuring a rich and varied dining experience.
- Explore Houston’s Montrose neighborhood with a local guide
- Delicious 3-course progressive dinner including local and international cuisine
- Enjoy a starter, main course, and dessert at three popular local restaurants
- Small-group tour ensures a personalized experience
Get more information and book your Montrose Food Tour TODAY!!!
Fat Bao
You can’t call yourself a foodie if you haven’t tried steamed buns. These dough-y Asian-style sandwiches are packed full of meats, veggies, and delicious condiments. They have two locations- one in Sugar Land and one off of Kirby.
Where: 3419 Kirby Drive Houston, TX 77098
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Frank’s Pizza
Image Credit: Frank’s Pizza FB Page
For downtown pizza joints, you can’t get much better than Frank’s. They offer coupons on their website and their traditional pies start at $12.
Where: 417 Travis St. Houston, TX 77002
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday 11:00 am – 1:00 am | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 3:00 am | Sunday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
The French Fry House
This casual, counter-serve restaurant offers dressed french fries that will have you dreaming of potatoes. Sit on their deck and smell the aromas of Philly Steak Fries, Boudin Eggrolls, and more.
Where: 5740 S Wayside Dr. Houston, TX 77004
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Thursday 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Saturday 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
Lankford Grocery
Image Credit: Lankford Grocery & Market FB Page
This laid-back burger joint has a variety of sandwiches available for $9 or less. They have comfort food, outdoor seating, and a fan base- lunchtime is the busiest. Just make sure to bring cash!
Where: 88 Dennis St, Houston, TX 77006
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday & Saturday 7:00 am – 3:00 pm | Friday 7:00 am – 12:00 am | Sunday CLOSED
Les Givral (TEMPORARILY CLOSED)
This restaurant prides itself on its fresh, affordable Vietnamese cafe. They offer traditional Bahn mi, vermicelli, and more starting at just $4, making the spot one of the most affordable restaurants in Houston. There are two locations inside the loop- Washington and Milam.
Oshii Japanese Restaurant
Image Credit: Oishi Sushi Bar FB Page
Looking for a great spot to get delicious and cheap sushi in Houston? Sushi and just about everything else is both cheap and delicious at this family-owned, Richmond Avenue eatery. Average price for a roll begins at around $4.
Where: 3764 Richmond Ave., Houston, TX 77046
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
Deal Alert – Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour – Lowest Price Guarantee!
Starting just north of downtown, get a panoramic view of the city. Visit amazing murals, see historic East End landmarks, and you might meet one of the world-famous, Doomsday Wrestlers. Includes Local Group, Sigma Brewing Co, and 8th Wonder. If you love sporting events and stadiums, this is the tour for you. Another flat ride, this easy route also contains some of the more unique spots in Houston.
Get more information and book your Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour TODAY!!!
Tarka Indian Kitchen
You can fill up at this Indian restaurant with starters and a main entree for less than $15. Main entrees are between $8-$10 and they also offer a vegetarian option. This kitchen has two locations- one near 610 and one in Spring.
Where: 721 W 19th St #7, Houston, TX 77008
Operating Hours: Open daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Treebeard’s
Image Credit: Treebeards Restaurant FB Page
Plates at this three-location chain run $9- $14 but you get a lot of bang for that buck. They have locations on Market Square, McKinney, and Louisiana.
Where: 9655 Katy Fwy Suite 3120, Houston, TX 77024
Operating Hours: Open daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Stack Burger
This burger joint is more than American- they offer traditional burgers, bulgogi, hot dogs, fajita burgers, and more. Most plates are between $5-$9.
Where: 703 St Joseph Pkwy, Houston, TX 77002
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 6:30 am – 7:00 pm | Saturday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
Cheap Eats in Houston: Affordable Places To Eat in Outer Loop
Blaze Pizza
Image Credit: Blaze Pizza FB Page
With multiple locations around Houston, this pizza joint is on fire. Their 11-inch pizzas are just $7.95 and are made to order. Check out their online deals for even more savings.
Where: 9650 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77063
Operating Hours: Sunday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Thursday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Annie’s Burgers
This cheap, no-frills restaurant offers breakfasts and burgers. Fries are extra but they’re worth it.
Where: 10821 S Post Oak Rd, Houston, TX 77035
Operating Hours: Sunday 7:30 am – 6:00 pm | Monday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm | Tuesday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm | Wednesday – Saturday 7:30 am – 7:00 pm
Heights Food Tour – Just $73.85 for 2 adults
Houston Heights is an up–and–coming neighborhood that visitors often miss. Discover the area’s history and culture on a food tour that stops at a variety of mom–and–pop shops, eateries, and markets loved by locals. Your guide, who eliminates the hassle of planning and navigating on your own, gives you inside tips and recommendations for the rest of your visit.
Get more information and book your Heights Food Tour TODAY!!!
Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack
This unassuming burger joint is the home of the Buffalo Burger. They have all the toppings and styles you can imagine, starting at just $5.50.
Where: 5230 Westpark Dr, Houston, TX 77056
Operating Hours: Open daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Don Cafe & Sandwich
Image Credit: Don Cafe
Enjoy cheap Vietnamese food in a quick-serve setting. Their location on 9300 Bellaire near the Beltway is a fan- favorite.
Where: 9300 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036
Operating Hours: Sunday – Wednesday 8:00 am – 9:00 pm | Thursday – Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Cool Runnings
This dive-bar restaurant offers sometimes spicy Jamaican foods, cocktails, wine, and beers. Plates start at $11.
Where: 8270 West Bellfort, Houston, Texas 77071
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 8:00 am – 11:00 pm | Sunday 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Deal Alert – 2-Hour BYOB Party Barge with Licensed Captain – Lowest Price Guarantee
Swap crowded Houston bars and sightseeing buses for a completely different experience—a pedal-powered boat party. After boarding the boat, start pedaling and get ready to start exploring the local landscape, including Kemah Boardwalk, Seabrook, League City, and Clear Lake Shores.
As for drinks—you’re welcome to bring your own alcohol and drink during the tour. If you forget your supplies, there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby. Enjoy a party on the water with this pedal-powered boat experience Glide past interesting sights and landmarks, such as Kemah No need to worry if you get tired: The boat has a pedal assist function Bring your favorite drinks with you on this BYOB boat experience
Get more information and book your 2 Hour Party Barge TODAY!!!
Darband Shish Kabob
Prepare for delicious Persian cuisine. Traditional plates pair Basmati rice with slow-roasted meats, grilled veg, nuts, and herbs. Plates run $5- $13.
Where: 5670 Hillcroft Ave, Houston, TX 77036
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Saturday 9:00 am – 11:00 pm | Sunday 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Taco Palenque
Image Credit: Taco Palenque FB Page
This Mexican restaurant serves all the traditional dishes. They have one location right now, just off of 610 and 45 but they have other locations coming soon.
Where: 3000 Woodridge Dr, Houston, TX 77087
Operating Hours: Sunday – Wednesday 7:30 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday – Saturday 7:30 am – 11:00 pm
Hungry Farmer BBQ
This down-home joint serves up huge plates of beef, rice, beans, and potato salad. They also serve burgers, sandwiches, and their own creations. Prices are reasonable for such large portions of food- about $11 a plate.
Where: 40 E Crosstimbers Rd. Houston, TX 77022
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Sunday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Nicey’s Restaurant (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)
This soul food restaurant serves up fried catfish, chicken fried steak, burgers, and all the sides. Most meals start at just $8.
Taqueria Del Sol
Image Credit: Taqueria Del Sol FB Page
This authentic Mexican restaurant has a huge menu and all of its options are inexpensive. Plus, tacos are just $1.75 each!
Where: 8114 Park Pl Blvd, Houston, TX 77017
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 7:30 am – 9:45 pm |
Xiong’s Cafe (PERMANENTLY CLOSED)
This Taiwanese eatery offers dumplings, wontons, noodle soups, lo mein, and more. The portions are generous and the reviews are great.
Tiger Den
Image Credit: Tiger Den FB Page
This communal Japanese restaurant serves up late-night bites, comfort food, and small plates.
Where: 9889 Bellaire Blvd STE 230, Houston, TX 77036
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Thursday 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 5:00 pm – 12:00 am | Sunday 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Best Cheap Eats In Greater Houston
Antonini’s Subs & Salads
Image Credit: Antonini’s Subs & Steaks II FB Page
This Bay- area restaurant has delicious subs starting at $5.50. Don’t expect a lot of frills, just fresh, delicious ingredients.
Where: 17314 TX-3, Webster, TX 77598
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm | Saturday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
Cajun Crawfish #1
If you haven’t tried Viet Cajun yet, you’re missing out. Come crawfish season, this cheap Houston restaurant is the place to be. Their menu is delicious and will satisfy you all year long.
Where: 13480 Veterans Memorial Dr Suite J, Houston, TX 77014
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Deal Alert – Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour – Lowest Price Guarantee!
Starting just north of downtown, get a panoramic view of the city. Visit amazing murals, see historic East End landmarks, and you might meet one of the world-famous, Doomsday Wrestlers. Includes Local Group, Sigma Brewing Co, and 8th Wonder. If you love sporting events and stadiums, this is the tour for you. Another flat ride, this easy route also contains some of the more unique spots in Houston.
Get more information and book your Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour TODAY!!!
Carl’s BBQ
You’ll need eagle eyes to spot this BBQ joint among the construction but this long-standing spot for cheap eats in Houston will leave you anything but wanting. Plates are huge and come with two sides for just $13. They have some of the best fried okra, mac and cheese, and desserts around.
Where: 21920 Northwest Freeway, Cypress, TX 77429
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 11:00 am – 8:30pm | Sunday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Houston City Deli & Cafe
This laid-back eatery in South Houston serves up salads, sandwiches, and comfort food. The prices aren’t the lowest on the list but they aren’t high either. Plus, you get what you pay for the portions are large!
Where: 15021 Katy Fwy Ste 100P Houston, TX 77094
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 3:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday CLOSED
Kurrywalah Fine Indian Cuisine
Image Credit: Kurry Walah FB Page
This is one Indian restaurant that won’t break the bank. The polite staff and owners will tell you if you’re ordering too much food or just enough but one order can serve two or three people. Plus, their Naan is amazing!
Where: 1830 Mason Rd #165, Katy, TX 77450
Operating Hours: Tuesday CLOSED | Monday – Sunday 11:00 am – 2:30 pm & 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Nyam Nyam Cafe
Image Credit: Nyam Nyam Cafe FB Page
Expect delicious quick- bites from this locally-owned Russian eatery. They have sophisticated, simple decore for a romantic date night or a relaxing lunch. Enjoy coffees and sweet and savory crepes- but be sure to try the Pirozhki!
Where: 15201 Mason Rd Suite 1100, Cypress, TX 77433
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Thursday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm | Sunday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Original Marini’s Empanada House
This empanada house in Katy, Texas makes their empanadas filled- to order. Empanadas start at $2.75.
Where: 10001 Westheimer Rd, Ste 2570 Houston, TX 77042
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday CLOSED
Pho Ben
Image Credit: Pho Ben FB Page
This Vietnamese restaurant is priced competitively. A vermicelli bowl is just $8.50. They’re so popular, that they are opening another location in Sugar Land.
Where: 3613 Hwy 6, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 9:30 pm | Sunday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Piada Italian Street Food
This is one street food vendor which will leave you feeling both full and guilt-free. Their fresh salads, wraps, and desserts are perfect for cheap eats in Houston without the bloat.
Where:
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:45 am – 10:00 pm
Sur Latin Peruvian Cuisine
The Tallarin al Pesto con Lomo is out of this world. The servings are huge and just about everything here is good. They’re also BYOB.
Where: 19901 Kingsland Blvd # A, Houston, TX 77094, United States
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Deal Alert – Save BIG with discount offers at these highly rated Houston restaurants
Sample Deal – Over 50% off at Angus Grill Brazilian Churrascaria
Tahini Plus
This Mediterranean restaurant near 529 offers delicious cuisine in a quick-serve setting. Plates start at $7.
Where: 6802 S Texas 6, Houston, TX 77083, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm | Saturday and Sunday: 10;00 am – 8:00 pm
Tornado Burger
Don’t judge a book by its cover- the building needs updating but the food here is tremendous. Burger combos start at just $6 and everything is made fresh.
Where: 505 Murphy Rd, Stafford, TX 77477, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Sunday: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Cheap Places To Eat Around Houston
Alamo Tamale Company
Image Credit: alamotamale.net
With three locations on the East side of Houston, this casual tamale restaurant will fill you up without leaving you high and dry. The tamales aren’t expensive- starting about $13 per dozen.
Where: 809 Berry Rd, Houston, TX 77022, United States
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 6:00 am – 3:00 pm | Friday and Saturday: 6:00 am – 4:00 pm
Collina’s Italian Cafe
This restaurant has been underrated for years- especially when you consider the value you get for your dollar. “Personal” pizzas are generously sized and start at just $7.
Where: 3835 Richmond Ave Houston, TX 77027
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm | Sunday: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
El Rey Taqueria
Serving up tacos, tortas, lunch and dinner plates, and fine Cuban cuisine, you won’t go hungry and you won’t bleed your wallet! For the cheapest options, stick with the tacos- there are plenty of flavors to choose from.
Where:910 Shepherd Dr. Houston, TX 77007
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 7:00 am – 12:00 am | Thursday – Saturday: 7:00 am – 3:00 am | Sunday: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Goode Co.
Image Credit: Goode Co. FB Page
Whether you’re looking for bbq, tacos, or seafood, Goode Co. has it all. They’re known for their locations selling BBQ plates but their other restaurants are just as good and won’t break the bank.
Where: 2422 Bartlett St Houston, TX 77098
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 am–5:00 pm
Gumbo Jeaux’s
Image Credit: gumbojeauxs.com
This Texiana eatery offers Texan- style Louisiana cooking. To keep it cheap, stick to the classics- gumbo, red beans and rice, and crawfish etouffee will all run you $7 or less. They have three locations around Houston.
Where: 15655 JFK Blvd Suite Q Houston, TX 77032
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 am – 8:30 pm
Deal Alert – Highly rated 2.5 Hour Houston City Tour – 2 adults for $55 only!
A good choice for first-time visitors to Houston, this tour offers a comprehensive overview of the city. Visit several well-known landmarks, parks, and stadiums including historic Market Square, Discovery Green, Toyota Center, Minute Maid Park, Buffalo Bayou, and more. You’ll also have an opportunity to admire the lavish homes and boutiques in River Oaks. A local guide shares insider information about what to see, where to eat, and what to do while you’re in town.
- Sightseeing tour of Houston
- Climate-controlled vehicle
- Small groups—maximum of 11 travelers
- Hotel pickup and drop-off included
Get more information and book your 2.5 hour Houston Tour TODAY!!!
Gyro King
With three locations spread out around Houston, this is one Gyro your stomach AND your wallet will be thanking you for. Gyros are huge and delicious, starting at just $7.
Where: 9203 Hwy 6 S Ste 110 Houston TX, 77083
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 11:00 am – 10:30 pm | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am – 1:30 am
Mambo’s Seafood
Image Credit: Mambo’s Seafood FB Page
With 11 locations near Houston, you can fill up on your choice of seafood and fried rice. This immensely popular Chinese- Latin restaurant may have a wait time but they won’t break the bank. Try the fried tilapia- no breading. You won’t regret it!
Where:
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday and Sunday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
Niko Nikos
Image Credit: Niko Nikos FB Page
With three locations around town, this Greek Restaurant has everything you need from healthier options to comfort food. Opa!
Where:
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
Papa Genos
With four locations around town, you won’t miss your Philly Cheese-steaks. Grab a sandwich, fries, and a drink for $10.
Where: 1801 Ella Blvd ste c, Houston, TX 77008, United States
Operating Hours: Monday -Saturday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Tacos A GoGo
Tacos start at around $2.99 each and they have all of your favorites to choose from. If you’re extra hungry, their Muy Yum plates won’t break the bank, either.
Where: 3704 Main St Houston, Texas 77002
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 am-10:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 am-10:00 pm
Tacos La Bala
Image Credit: Tacos La Bala FB Page
Here, you’ll find a counter-serve Mexican chain with seating optional. You can get burritos, tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and breakfast plates.
Where: 12900 Aldine Westfield Rd Ste C, Houston, TX, United States, Texas
Operating Hours: Monday -Sunday: 7:30 am – 10:00 pm
Taqueria Arandas
Traditional Mexican breakfasts, lunches, and dinner. You can get your lunch quickly without breaking the bank.
Where: 2525 N Loop W #610 Houston, TX 77008
Operating Hours: Not Found
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