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16 Best Cheap Eats in Los Angeles

Looking for cheap eats in Los Angeles that won't break the bank? Whether you're a local or just passing through, navigating the vast array of dining options can be overwhelming. But fear not, because we've got you covered with a comprehensive list of the best affordable restaurants in LA.

From food trucks to hole-in-the-wall gems, Los Angeles boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to every budget. So, if you're craving delicious food that won't empty your wallet, you're in the right place. Get ready to explore the hidden culinary treasures of Los Angeles without spending a fortune.

Check out our list of the 16 Best Cheap Eats in Los Angeles below and start planning your next budget-friendly food adventure in the City of Angels!

How this guide is ordered

Chosen for expertise, reputation, complete information and location within Los Angeles.

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#1
Philippe The Original
4.610,828 reviews
#2
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Chinatown
4.73,594 reviews
#3
Dino's Famous Chicken
4.55,424 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Philippe The Original, Los Angeles#1
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the delicious French dip sandwiches, with options like pastrami, beef, and lamb.

  • The meat is described as tender and flavorful, melting in your mouth with each bite.

  • Many patrons appreciate the no-frills ambiance and firehouse rules seating arrangement, adding to the unique experience.

Philippe The Original

4.610,828 reviews
1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Philippe The Original is a legendary sandwich shop in Los Angeles that has kept its status over the years. Known for its iconic French dip sandwiches, this place offers a wide selection of sandwiches, pies, and drinks. Customers can enjoy fast service in a casual and historic atmosphere.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, Philippe The Original is a must-visit spot for a taste of LA history and a satisfying meal.

Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Chinatown, Los Angeles#2
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the delicious chicken sandwiches that are described as "next level" and "the best chicken sandwich in the world".

  • The spice levels are also a big hit with patrons, who recommend trying the medium spice level for the perfect balance.

  • The friendly staff and impeccable service are highlighted in many reviews, making every visit a pleasant one.

  • Although the lines may be long at times, customers agree that the food is definitely worth the wait.

Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Chinatown

4.73,594 reviews
727 N Broadway #128, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Chinatown is a renowned chicken restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. With an impressive rating of 4.7 and over 3594 reviews, it is clear that customers love the experience this restaurant provides.

Don't miss out on a chance to visit Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Chinatown for an unforgettable dining experience!

Dino's Famous Chicken, Los Angeles#3
What stands out

  • The chicken was disappointing, despite the enticing smell.

  • Delivery and takeout orders weren't up to par.

  • Consistent taste, great service, and unique flavors keep customers coming back.

  • Delicious chicken dishes, welcoming ambiance, and friendly service make it a must-visit for all chicken lovers.

Dino's Famous Chicken

4.55,424 reviews
2575 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006, United States

Dino's Famous Chicken is a renowned Chicken restaurant located in Los Angeles. Known for its delicious chicken dishes, this establishment offers a variety of dining options such as Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers have praised the fast service and highlighted it as a go-to spot for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. The cozy and casual Atmosphere coupled with the historic charm makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

With a stellar rating of 4.5 stars, Dino's Famous Chicken has garnered over 5,000 reviews. Some of the key points mentioned in the customer reviews include:

If you're in the mood for mouthwatering chicken plates or unique twists like chicken fries, Dino's Famous Chicken is the place to be!

Guisados, Los Angeles#4
What stands out

  • Delicious and authentic street tacos, with even a vegan option available.

  • Great flavor combinations, quick service, and perfect drinks.

  • Fantastic tacos, especially the sampler, with a warning that some are spicy.

  • Excellent service, authentic food, and a dope atmosphere, although vegetarian options are limited.

Guisados

4.62,128 reviews
541 S Spring St UNIT 101, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Guisados is a beloved Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles that offers a variety of services and features to make dining a memorable experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, fast service, and a menu filled with options like breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The casual and cosy atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd, including groups and university students.

Customer reviews highlight some key points:

With a rating of 4.6 stars and numerous positive reviews, Guisados is a top choice for Mexican cuisine in the area. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this restaurant promises a delightful culinary experience.

Carney's Restaurant, Los Angeles#5
What stands out

  • This place offers tasty food at great prices, making it a good value for the LA area.

  • The environment at Carney's is top-notch with amazing music, cleanliness, and well portioned meals.

  • While the service may be average, the delicious burgers and fries more than make up for it, creating an overall enjoyable dining experience.

  • Customers appreciate the iconic train restaurant theme and the variety of menu options available, including Chili Cheeseburgers, Trainwreck fries, and Chicagoer Hotdogs.

Carney's Restaurant

4.62,050 reviews
8351 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069, United States

Carney's Restaurant is a popular hamburger restaurant located on Sunset Blvd in Los Angeles, CA. Known for its fast service and delicious food, Carney's offers a variety of options for customers including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services.

With a rating of 4.6 stars, based on over 2000 reviews, customers have had overwhelmingly positive experiences at Carney's. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're stopping by for a quick bite to eat or looking for a fun and memorable dining experience, Carney's Restaurant is a must-visit spot for burger lovers in the Los Angeles area. Visit their website for more information and to check out their menu!

Nick's Cafe, Los Angeles#6
What stands out

  • Fans of the large portion sizes and great flavors in the food, especially the French Toast and Chilaquiles.

  • Appreciation for the friendly and helpful service, with mention of attentive staff who provide excellent recommendations.

  • Positive comments about the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing brunch experience.

  • Some customers noted slight drawbacks such as limited parking spaces and slightly higher prices, but still found the overall experience to be worth it.

Nick's Cafe

4.61,535 reviews
1300 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Nick's Cafe is a popular American restaurant located in Los Angeles. Known for its great coffee and delicious breakfast and lunch options, Nick's Cafe offers a cozy and historic atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists.

With a ranking of 4.6, Nick's Cafe has garnered positive reviews from its customers. Here are some key points summarized from the reviews:

Overall, Nick's Cafe offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on delicious comfort food, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking a taste of classic American cuisine.

Eggslut, Los Angeles#7
What stands out

  • The truffle hash browns are fantastic.

  • The egg sandwiches are messy but absolutely worth it.

  • The food is made right in front of you in an open kitchen.

  • It is a must-visit breakfast place in DTLA.

Eggslut

4.43,957 reviews
317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Eggslut is a popular breakfast restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. They are known for their delicious egg dishes and excellent service. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options such as breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Customers can enjoy their meals in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

Customers rave about the quality of the food and the unique dishes offered at Eggslut. With a rating of 4.4 stars and over 3957 reviews, it's clear that this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch, Eggslut is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Luv2eat Thai Bistro, Los Angeles#8
What stands out

  • The Moo Ping (Pork Skewers) and Thai Fried Chicken are highly recommended for their flavorful and delicious taste.

  • The crab curry, jade noodle, and different meat dishes are described as amazing and full of flavor.

  • Guests praise the well-flavored curries, tasty fried chicken, and sizable portions at the restaurant.

  • Reviewers highlight the authentic Southern Thai dishes, perfectly grilled meats, and crispy fried chicken that make the dining experience exceptional.

Luv2eat Thai Bistro

4.51,212 reviews
6660 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

Luv2eat Thai Bistro is a renowned Thai restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features that cater to the diverse needs of its customers. With options for outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, customers can enjoy their favorite dishes in a way that suits them best.

One of the highlights of Luv2eat Thai Bistro is its great tea selection, which adds a unique touch to the dining experience. The restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it suitable for different occasions and preferences. Moreover, the restaurant offers a range of amenities like gender-neutral toilets and toilets for added convenience.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious Thai food served at Luv2eat Thai Bistro. Here are some key points summarizing the reviews:

Experience the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine at Luv2eat Thai Bistro, where every dish is crafted to perfection to satisfy your cravings.

Guerrilla Tacos, Los Angeles#9

Guerrilla Tacos

4.51,205 reviews
2000 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, United States

Guerrilla Tacos · Mexican restaurant · 2000 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, United States

The Little Jewel of New Orleans, Los Angeles#10
What stands out

  • Customers praise the fast service and friendly staff, mentioning the efficient cashier and helpful employees.

  • Many enjoyed the diverse menu offerings, with highlights such as the fried oysters, catfish, and shrimp, as well as flavorful Po’ boys.

  • Visitors also appreciate the option of outdoor seating and the convenience of delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services.

The Little Jewel of New Orleans

4.41,546 reviews
207 Ord St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

The Little Jewel of New Orleans is a renowned Po’ boys restaurant located in Los Angeles, offering a taste of authentic New Orleans cuisine to its customers. With a ranking of 4.4, it's clear that patrons rave about the food and atmosphere provided by this establishment.

Experience the taste of Louisiana without leaving California at The Little Jewel of New Orleans, where the flavors speak for themselves.

Uncle John's Cafe, Los Angeles#11
What stands out

  • Great customer service and excellent food.

  • Consistent flavor and satisfying dishes.

  • Diverse menu with friendly personnel.

  • Delicious food, quick service, and friendly staff.

Uncle John's Cafe

4.4988 reviews
834 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

Uncle John's Cafe is a well-known restaurant located in Los Angeles, offering a variety of services such as kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, lunch, or a cozy dinner spot, Uncle John's Cafe has got you covered.

This charming spot is highlighted for its great coffee and tea selection, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The family-friendly atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to the overall positive experience at Uncle John's Cafe.

Customers rave about the delicious food and excellent service at this cafe. Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you are looking for a cozy spot with tasty food and a welcoming atmosphere, Uncle John's Cafe is the place to be!

Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, Los Angeles#12

Tacos Tumbras a Tomas

4.4433 reviews
317 S Broadway #14, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Tacos Tumbras a Tomas · Taco restaurant · 317 S Broadway #14, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

ALocal option
#13
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the generous portion sizes at ABC Chinese Fast Food.

  • Guests appreciate the fast and friendly service provided by the staff.

  • The food is described as delicious with good value for the money spent.

  • Some customers have reported issues with parking but overall, they were satisfied with the dining experience.

ABC Chinese Fast Food

4.4220 reviews
100 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

ABC Chinese Fast Food is a popular Chinese restaurant located in Los Angeles. They offer several service options like Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant is known for being popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining. Their menu includes delicious Coffee, Comfort food, Quick bite, and Small plates options.

Two Hands Corn Dogs - Little Tokyo, Los Angeles#14
What stands out

  • "If you're someone who likes this kind of food, you'll enjoy the selection that they offer here."

  • "Crunchy, cheesy, and tasty corn dogs with different toppings."

  • "Price point is reasonable, and the food is served fresh."

  • "Two hands in Little Tokyo is a really busy spot, but very worth it."

Two Hands Corn Dogs - Little Tokyo

4.660 reviews
118 Japanese Village Plaza Mall, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Two Hands Corn Dogs - Little Tokyo is a popular fast food restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of delicious corn dogs with unique toppings and flavors. Customers can enjoy delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options in a casual atmosphere. The restaurant is wheelchair-accessible and good for kids.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Customers appreciate the quality and variety of corn dogs offered at Two Hands Corn Dogs. The restaurant has a high rating of 4.6 stars based on 60 reviews, making it a favorite spot for a quick and delicious bite.

Jose Chiquito, Los Angeles#15
What stands out

  • Delicious breakfast burritos with great coffee at a reasonable price

  • Yummy chorizo with potatoes breakfast burrito, a definite crowd-pleaser

  • The best philly cheesesteak sandwich with jalapeños in town

  • Prompt service and great food, despite minor mishaps, make it a go-to spot

Jose Chiquito

4.4168 reviews
317 S Broadway A-6, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

Jose Chiquito is a renowned breakfast restaurant located in Los Angeles, offering a variety of delicious options for customers to enjoy. With a solid ranking of 4.4, it is clear that patrons are consistently satisfied with their experience at this establishment.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Jose Chiquito offers various service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Patrons rave about the friendly staff and the exceptional food quality, making it a top choice for breakfast in Los Angeles. So, whether you're craving a classic breakfast burrito, a flavorful chorizo plate, or a satisfying reuben sandwich, Jose Chiquito promises a delightful dining experience for all.

Good Eats To Go, Los Angeles#16
What stands out

  • Unsatisfactory service with no water provided, especially disappointing after oral surgery

  • Issues with not providing water for children

  • Highly rated with a perfect score of 5, but no specific comments provided

Good Eats To Go

2.33 reviews
Los Angeles, CA 90004, United States

Good Eats To Go is a popular Restaurant in Los Angeles, CA, known for its delicious Comfort food and Quick bites. Customers can enjoy their meal in a Casual atmosphere or opt for Delivery, Takeaway, or Dine-in options. This spot is especially loved for Lunch and Solo dining, making it a great choice for a quick meal during the day.

The overall ranking of 2.3 may not reflect the true experience, as reviewers have shared mixed opinions. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Despite some negative feedback, Good Eats To Go continues to attract customers looking for a convenient and tasty dining experience.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Philippe The Original 4.610,828
#2Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Chinatown 4.73,594
#3Dino's Famous Chicken 4.55,424
#4Guisados 4.62,128
#5Carney's Restaurant 4.62,050
#6Nick's Cafe 4.61,535
#7Eggslut 4.43,957
#8Luv2eat Thai Bistro 4.51,212
#9Guerrilla Tacos 4.51,205
#10The Little Jewel of New Orleans 4.41,546
#11Uncle John's Cafe 4.4988
#12Tacos Tumbras a Tomas 4.4433
#13ABC Chinese Fast Food 4.4220
#14Two Hands Corn Dogs - Little Tokyo 4.660
#15Jose Chiquito 4.4168
#16Good Eats To Go 2.33

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Map of Cheap Eats in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling city known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of dining options to suit any budget. From food trucks to hole-in-the-wall restaurants, the city is packed with cheap eats that won't break the bank. Check out this map to discover some of the best affordable dining spots in Los Angeles.

How to choose cheap eats in Los Angeles

  1. Locations across the city.
  2. Diverse range of cuisines.
  3. Affordable prices.
  4. Quality ingredients.
  5. Quick and friendly service.

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular options for cheap eats in Los Angeles?

There are many popular spots in Los Angeles where you can find delicious and affordable meals. Some examples include food trucks serving tacos and burritos, hole-in-the wall eateries offering authentic ethnic cuisine, and local diners known for their hearty breakfasts at a great price. If you're in the mood for a quick bite, you can also check out the various street vendors selling hot dogs, pretzels, and other snacks. Additionally, many grocery stores and markets offer pre-made meals or sandwiches that are budget-friendly. Don't forget about happy hour specials at bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. These deals are a great way to sample different dishes without breaking the bank.

Where can I find the best cheap eats in Los Angeles?

For the best cheap eats in Los Angeles, consider exploring neighborhoods such as Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Boyle Heights, where you can find a wide variety of budget-friendly dining options. Food courts at malls or outdoor markets are another great place to find affordable meals, with vendors offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to international street food. If you're willing to venture off the beaten path, you might stumble upon hidden gems in less touristy areas that offer tasty dishes at a fraction of the price of more upscale establishments.

How can I save money while dining at cheap eateries in Los Angeles?

One way to save money while dining at cheap eateries in Los Angeles is to take advantage of lunch specials or early bird discounts, which are often offered at many restaurants and cafes. Another tip is to share dishes with friends or family members, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes without overspending. Additionally, keep an eye out for promotions or loyalty programs that offer discounts or rewards for frequent customers. If you're on a tight budget, consider packing your own snacks or drinks to enjoy on the go, which can help offset the costs of dining out. Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals or restaurant staff for the best value options.

Are there any cheap eats near popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles?

Yes, there are several budget-friendly dining options near popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles. Many food trucks and street vendors can be found near iconic landmarks such as Hollywood Boulevard, Venice Beach, and Griffith Observatory, serving up affordable and tasty meals. Additionally, check out nearby neighborhoods for hidden gems that cater to both locals and visitors looking for a great meal at a reasonable price. Don't overlook smaller cafes or mom-and-pop restaurants that may offer special deals for tourists looking to save money while exploring the city.

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