Cheap Eats Houston 2023 – List of 50 of the best affordable restaurants near you
Houston is known for its diverse culinary scene, but dining out can quickly become expensive. Luckily, there are plenty of cheap eats Houston offers, so you don’t need to sacrifice taste or quality. From Tex-Mex to Vietnamese cuisine, cheap restaurants in Houston has something for every palate and budget.
So, if you are searching for “cheap restaurants near me,” “affordable food near me,” “Houston cheap eats,” or “cheap restaurants Houston,” we got you covered!
To help you navigate the city’s affordable dining options, we’ve compiled a list of 50 of the best cheap eats in Houston for 2023. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos or burgers, or pizza, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to indulge in mouth-watering dishes that won’t hurt your wallet from the best cheap Houston restaurants, and discover the hidden culinary gems that make affordable restaurants in Houston a food lover’s paradise.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our recent articles on Farmers Market Houston, Summer Camps in Houston, and Things to do in El Paso, Texas!
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Foodies wanted! Come enjoy diverse plates in the heart of Downtown Houston at some of 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 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.
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Cheap Eats Houston: Affordable Food at Inner Loop
Doshi House
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
Fat Bao
You can’t call yourself a foodie if you haven’t tried steamed buns. These doughy 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
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
Frenchy’s Chicken
Famous for its fried chicken, this Houston institution is a must-visit for anyone on a budget.
Where: Multiple locations all over Houston
Operating Hours: Open daily 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Lankford Grocery
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
Oshii Japanese Restaurant
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. The 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
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
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
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Cheap Eats Houston: Affordable restaurants in Outer Loop
Blaze Pizza
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
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
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
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
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
Taqueria Del Sol
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 |
Tiger Den
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
Howdy Houston EADO Food Tour – 5 Delicious Venues – Just $89.99 for 2 adults!
PUBLIC TOURS AVAILABLE OCTOBER – APRIL
Taste some of the many flavors Houston has to offer as your guide takes you to five delicious venues. Through food, art and history you will see how EADO has evolved from Houston’s original Chinatown into one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in the country. Sample delicious food from a bakery, a taco stand, a BBQ restaurant, a unique supermarket and a Vietnamese restaurant as you learn about the graffiti art, architecture, public art, and green spaces that have helped shape EADO.
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Cheap Eats Houston – Best cheap restaurants in Greater Houston
Antonini’s Subs & Salads
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
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. The 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 – 8:30 pm | 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
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
Expect delicious quick bites from this locally-owned Russian eatery. They have sophisticated, simple decor for a romantic date night or a relaxing lunch. Enjoy coffee 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
Pinkerton’s Barbecue
For authentic Texas-style barbecue at an affordable price, head to Pinkerton’s.
Where: 1504 Airline Drive, Houston, Texas 77009
Operating Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tuesday – Thursday & Sundays 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday & Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Pho Ben
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
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
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!!!
Cheap Eats Houston 2023 – Affordable places to eat
Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine
Enjoy flavorful Mediterranean dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma at this affordable restaurant.
Where: 912 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Operating Hours: Open daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Alamo Tamale Company
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 at 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
Barnaby’s Cafe
This popular Houston chain serves up breakfast, sandwiches, salads, and more at reasonable prices. They are also pet-friendly and serve a delightful menu for your lovely dogs.
Where: Multiple locations available in Houston
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 am – 12:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday 8:00 am – 2:00 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.
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
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
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
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
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
Raising Cane’s
For a quick and affordable meal, head to Raising Cane’s for their signature chicken fingers and fries.
Where: Multiple locations available all over Houston
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 1:00 am | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 am
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
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 dinners. 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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