Brooklyn’s culinary scene is legendary, but you don't need a fat wallet to savor its diverse, vibrant flavors. Navigating the borough's vast food landscape for truly satisfying cheap eats in Brooklyn under $20 per person is not just possible—it's an art form many locals have mastered. Forget bland, forget skimpy; we're talking about robust, authentic meals that leave your taste buds humming and your bank account intact.
This guide isn't about mere sustenance; it’s about discovering hidden gems and smart strategies to enjoy Brooklyn’s best budget-friendly fare, ensuring every dollar spent translates into maximum flavor and a genuinely fulfilling experience.
At a Glance: Your Blueprint for Budget Bites
- Master the $15-$20 Sweet Spot: Learn how to maximize your meal value within the "cheap eats" definition (under $15) while strategically pushing to $20 for an exceptional experience.
- Neighborhood Niche Diving: Pinpoint specific Brooklyn neighborhoods renowned for authentic, wallet-friendly cuisine, from Bushwick's tacos to Sunset Park's dim sum.
- Uncover Daily Deals & Smart Ordering: Discover how lunch specials, happy hour, and menu hacks can slash your bill without sacrificing quality or quantity.
- Embrace Authentic Ethnic Fare: Recognize why immigrant enclaves are your best friends for delicious and genuinely affordable meals.
- Spot "Hole-in-the-Wall Wonders": Develop an eye for unassuming spots that deliver outsized flavor for small bills.
Defining "Cheap Eats" in the Wild: Under $15 vs. Under $20
When we talk "cheap eats," the purist definition often points to a meal under $15 per person. However, Brooklyn’s dynamic pricing can sometimes push truly great value into the $15-$20 range, especially if you add a drink or an extra side. This guide focuses on both: how to reliably find amazing meals under $15, and how to confidently select options that might touch $20 but still offer exceptional value, making them feel genuinely "cheap" for the quality received.
For a broader exploration of how to eat affordably across the borough, regardless of the exact price point, you can always Discover Brooklyn's affordable eats. That guide offers a comprehensive framework; here, we drill down into the very specific tactics and locations for staying under that $20 mark.
Your Tactical Playbook: Smart Strategies for Savvy Snacking
Eating well on a budget in Brooklyn requires a bit of savvy, but the rewards are immense. Think of these strategies as your personal culinary cheat sheet.
1. Dive into Discounted Lunch Menus & Happy Hour Deals
Many restaurants offer significantly lower prices during off-peak hours, particularly for lunch. These menus often feature smaller portions or a curated selection of popular items at a fraction of their dinner cost. Similarly, happy hour isn't just for drinks; it can include discounted appetizers or small plates that make for a satisfying, affordable meal.
- Case Snippet: Roberta’s Pizza in Bushwick, famous for its wood-fired pies, offers budget-friendly slices during lunch hours. A classic margherita slice provides that iconic taste without the full dinner price tag. It’s a perfect example of hitting a popular spot for less.
2. Embrace Street Food & Food Trucks
Brooklyn's streets are a vibrant tapestry of culinary offerings. Food trucks and street vendors often provide incredible value, delivering fresh, flavorful meals at prices that are hard to beat in a sit-down restaurant. Look for diverse options, from classic hot dogs to gourmet tacos and falafel.
- Why it works: Lower overhead for vendors often translates to lower prices for you. Plus, the quick service means you can grab and go, saving time as well as money.
3. Explore Ethnic Enclaves: Your Gateway to Authenticity & Affordability
Brooklyn's rich cultural tapestry is its greatest asset for budget eaters. Neighborhoods with strong immigrant communities often feature family-run restaurants serving incredibly authentic, generously portioned, and affordably priced dishes. These spots prioritize flavor and tradition over fancy decor.
- Example: Sunset Park’s 8th Avenue is a prime example, bustling with Cantonese restaurants and noodle shops where you can feast like royalty on a pauper's budget. Similarly, the diverse offerings in Bushwick or Crown Heights provide a passport to global flavors at local prices.
4. Hunt for "Hole-in-the-Wall Wonders"
Don't judge a book by its cover, or a restaurant by its facade. Some of Brooklyn's most delicious and affordable spots are unassuming, no-frills establishments. They might not have sleek interiors, but they pour all their passion into the food.
- Tip: Look for small, independent eateries with handwritten menus, or places that clearly specialize in one or two types of cuisine. A line out the door, even for a humble-looking spot, is often a sign of greatness.
5. Look for Combos, Daily Specials, and Limited-Time Promotions
Keep an eye out for bundled meals, daily rotating specials, or advertised promotions. Many places will offer a sandwich, side, and drink combo for a set price, or a "special of the day" that’s an exceptional deal. Checking social media or the restaurant’s website before you go can reveal these hidden opportunities.
Neighborhood Deep Dives: Where to Find Your Under-$20 Feast
Let’s get specific. Here are some prime Brooklyn neighborhoods and the standout cheap eats within them, all staying true to our under-$20-per-person goal.
Bushwick: Tacos, Arepas, and Pizza Slices
Bushwick has transformed into a culinary hotspot, but its roots in affordable, authentic eats remain strong. It's a goldmine for casual, flavorful dining.
- Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos: This spot is a vibrant, no-frills tortilleria and taqueria. Their tacos are legendary – fresh tortillas made on-site, generous fillings like al pastor, carnitas, or suadero, all for a few dollars each. Pair a few tacos with some horchata, and you'll easily stay under $15. It's the taste of Mexico, straight to your plate.
- Arepera Guacuco: For a taste of Venezuela, Guacuco delivers. Their arepas—griddled cornmeal pockets filled with savory ingredients—are incredibly satisfying and flavorful. The Reina Pepiada (shredded chicken, avocado, and mayo) is a classic, hearty enough for a full meal and well within budget.
- Roberta’s Pizza (Lunch Slices): While a full pie can stretch the budget, Roberta's offers individual slices during lunch. It's an excellent way to experience their renowned wood-fired pizza without the higher price point. Grab a classic margherita slice for a quick, delicious, and affordable meal.
Sunset Park: Dim Sum, Authentic Tacos, and Yunnan Noodles
Sunset Park is a beacon for authentic and affordable ethnic cuisine, especially Chinese and Mexican. The prices here are consistently low, and the flavors are incredibly rich.
- Pacificana: A bustling Cantonese restaurant, Pacificana is famous for its dim sum served from rolling carts. Going during lunch offers the best value, with a vast array of dumplings, buns, and other small plates. You can easily sample several dishes and have a filling meal for well under $20. It’s an experience as much as a meal.
- Tacos Matamoros: This no-frills taqueria embodies the spirit of cheap eats. Known for its authentic and low-priced tacos, Matamoros serves up delicious carnitas, al pastor, and more. A few of these street-style tacos, bursting with flavor, make for an incredibly satisfying and inexpensive meal.
- Yun Nan Flavour Snack: Specializing in authentic Yunnan cuisine, this spot offers flavorful and surprisingly filling noodle dishes. Their spicy pork sauce noodle is a crowd favorite, delivering a complex depth of flavor and a substantial portion, all for a very reasonable price. It's a warming, comforting meal on a budget.
Williamsburg: Bagels, Tacos, and Classic Pizza
Williamsburg might be trendy, but it still holds onto some fantastic budget-friendly options, particularly for quick bites and comfort food.
- The Bagel Store: Beyond the rainbow bagels (which are fun, but not always the cheapest option), The Bagel Store offers classic deli sandwiches and, crucially, delicious, fresh bagels. A bagel with schmear is a quintessential cheap, filling breakfast or lunch, easily under $5.
- Tacombi: A chain, yes, but Tacombi consistently delivers fresh, affordable tacos made with daily-pressed corn tortillas. Their relaxed atmosphere and consistently good quality make it a solid choice for a casual, under-$20 meal. Try a mix of their different taco fillings to get a diverse flavor profile.
- Best Pizza: This iconic spot lives up to its name for simple, no-frills pizza that’s incredibly delicious and amazingly priced. Expect lines, but a slice or two here will keep you well within budget and deeply satisfied. It's old-school Brooklyn pizza at its finest.
Bedford-Stuyvesant: Fried Chicken, Tapas, and Vegan Options
Bed-Stuy boasts a rich culinary heritage, blending traditional soul food with new, diverse offerings, many of which are surprisingly affordable.
- Peaches Hothouse: While they have a more upscale sit-down restaurant, Peaches Hothouse offers some of the most delicious and affordable fried chicken and sides. Their fried chicken is legendary—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—and a meal can easily be built for under $20.
- Brooklyn Beso: This spot offers a mix of tapas and larger plates, often featuring affordable happy hour specials that make it possible to enjoy a varied meal on a budget. Check their specials board for the best deals on small plates and drinks.
- Golda: For affordable vegan and vegetarian options, Golda shines. Their falafel wraps and fresh salads are packed with flavor and nutrition, offering a healthy and inexpensive alternative. It’s a great spot for a quick, wholesome lunch.
Crown Heights: Trinidadian Delights and Caribbean Ice Cream
Crown Heights brings a taste of the Caribbean to Brooklyn, with many establishments offering generous portions of flavorful food at budget-friendly prices.
- Gloria’s: A true Crown Heights institution, Gloria's specializes in authentic Trinidadian cuisine. Their roti (flatbreads filled with various curries) and doubles (fried flatbreads with channa/chickpea curry) are incredibly flavorful, filling, and budget-friendly. A doubles or a small roti can be a complete meal for under $10.
- Island Pops: After a savory meal, Island Pops offers unique Caribbean-inspired ice cream flavors like soursop and guava. These treats are reasonably priced, including several delicious vegan options, making for a perfect affordable dessert.
Beyond the Neighborhoods: More Hidden Gems and Under-$20 Wonders
Brooklyn's affordable culinary landscape extends far beyond these specific enclaves. Many standalone spots offer incredible value.
- The Commodore: Known for its great vibe and "killer fried chicken" (crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned) at affordable prices. It's a fantastic spot for a casual, satisfying meal that hits the comfort food craving.
- Kulushkat: This spot serves up flavorful falafel with fresh ingredients and exceptional customer service. While they open at 4 PM, ordering ahead during peak hours is recommended. A falafel sandwich is a masterclass in affordable, delicious street food.
- Cornbread Brooklyn: Offering a delightful fusion of Southern and Caribbean cuisines, Cornbread Brooklyn delivers on flavor and value. Dishes like their Southern Fried Chicken or Shrimp and Grits offer hearty portions in a cozy atmosphere, proving that quality doesn't have to mean high prices.
- Lowerline: For authentic Creole dishes, Lowerline is a must-visit. Their rich gumbo and shrimp po' boy transport you straight to New Orleans, all at prices that won't break the bank.
- Xifu Food: Dive into the world of affordable, flavor-packed dishes like dumplings and braised pork belly here. Xifu Food proves that intricate flavors don’t require a hefty price tag.
- Taste Of Heaven: This aptly named spot lives up to its promise with a diverse menu boasting "heavenly flavors" at "mind-blowing prices." It's a reliable choice for delicious, inexpensive meals across various cuisines.
- Mitchell's Soul Food: A local favorite, Mitchell's offers lip-smacking soul food, particularly their fried chicken, at prices that make it accessible for everyone. Expect hearty portions and authentic flavors.
- Vanessa's Dumpling House: For some of the best and most affordable dumplings and scallion pancakes, Vanessa's is a staple. It's a quick, delicious, and incredibly cheap way to satisfy a craving.
- Purple Yam: Experience affordable Filipino dishes, with recommendations like sisig and refreshing halo-halo desserts, all in a cozy, welcoming setting. It's a chance to explore a unique cuisine without overspending.
- Sisters: This spot manages to be elegant yet wallet-friendly, featuring a menu that includes satisfying burgers and thoughtful vegan options, proving that good ambiance doesn't always come with a high cost.
- Ethel & Annie Mae's Soulfood Kitchen: For soulful comfort food, this kitchen delivers hearty portions of classics like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and sweet potato pie, all at incredibly affordable prices.
- Yia Yia's Taverna: Enjoy flavor-packed Greek cuisine, with highlights like crispy spanakopita and savory lamb gyros, in a cozy atmosphere. It’s a taste of Greece that's kind to your budget.
- The Soul Spot: Another cozy gem for flavorful soul food, The Soul Spot offers generous portions of seasoned fried chicken and collard greens, making it a go-to for an affordable, comforting meal.
Quick Answers: Your FAQ on Brooklyn's Cheap Eats
Q: Is it really possible to eat a satisfying meal for under $20 in Brooklyn without sacrificing quality?
A: Absolutely. While $20 can vanish quickly in some parts of Brooklyn, by focusing on ethnic enclaves, lunch specials, street food, and "hole-in-the-wall" establishments, you can enjoy genuinely high-quality, flavorful, and filling meals well within that budget. The key is knowing where to look and being strategic.
Q: Are "cheap eats" always unhealthy fast food?
A: Not at all. Many of Brooklyn's most affordable options, especially in ethnic communities, feature fresh ingredients, home-cooked techniques, and often very balanced meals. Think fresh tacos, vibrant noodle bowls, savory falafel wraps, or hearty African/Caribbean stews. These are far from generic fast food.
Q: How can I spot a truly good cheap eat spot versus a low-quality one?
A: Look for lines, especially local patrons. This is often the clearest indicator of quality and value. Also, check online reviews, but pay attention to mentions of authenticity and freshness, not just price. Unassuming exteriors often hide culinary treasures. A focused menu, specializing in a few dishes, can also be a good sign.
Q: Should I always stick to cash for these places?
A: While many smaller, cash-only establishments still exist, most places now accept cards. However, having some cash on hand is always a good idea, especially for street vendors or very small, independent spots, just in case.
Your Next Bite: A Quick Start Guide
Ready to dive into Brooklyn's affordable culinary scene? Here’s your actionable plan:
- Pick a Neighborhood: Start with Bushwick or Sunset Park for a high concentration of reliable cheap eats.
- Target a Cuisine: Decide if you're in the mood for tacos, dim sum, arepas, or something else specific from our recommendations.
- Check the Time: Aim for lunch hours or look for happy hour deals to maximize your savings.
- Order Smart: Consider a few small plates or a combo meal over single, larger entrees. Don't be afraid to ask about daily specials.
- Be Adventurous: Step outside your comfort zone. Those unassuming "hole-in-the-wall" spots often hold the biggest flavor secrets.
Brooklyn’s under-$20 food scene is a testament to its vibrant, diverse spirit. With these strategies and recommendations in hand, you’re now equipped to embark on a delicious, wallet-friendly culinary adventure. Go forth and feast!