Finding cheap eats in Times Square can feel like going on a treasure hunt. Except in this case, the treasure map is missing, and instead of gold, you find overpriced steak dinners and $15 sodas. But hey, don’t break into a cold sweat just yet! There are also budget-friendly spots in Times Square hiding in plain sight, waiting for you to discover them.
Whether you’re there to catch a Broadway show or gawk at the stunning lights, you’ll need food to keep the energy up. The food also needs to be affordable and won’t send your bank account into a crisis. And that’s where this guide on the best places to eat in Times Square comes in. So, grab your Sherlock Holmes hat, and let’s dive into Times Square’s budget-friendly food scene. And don’t worry, there won’t be any math involved.
Best Places to Eat in Times Square on a Budget
New York City is always moving, and so should you! Sometimes, you don’t want to sit down and wait for a meal. You might need to have mobile food as you sprint to the next tourist attraction. Here are some quick and cheap eats near Times Square that will fill you up without slowing you down.
Joe’s Pizza
Is it even a trip to NYC if you don’t grab a pizza slice? Joe’s Pizza is an iconic shop that’s been around since the ‘70s, and for good reason. Their no-frills, perfectly crisp, and cheesy slices are the stuff of pizza dreams. And guess what? A regular slice is just a couple of bucks. This makes it an unbeatable deal considering you’re in the heart of tourist central.
The Halal Guys
The Halal Guys food cart is practically a New York landmark at this point. Starting as a humble cart serving halal food, they’ve since become an empire. Their incredible platter is piled high with chicken, lamb, rice, and that magical white sauce. For around $10, you can get a meal that will keep you full for hours.
2 Bros Pizza
You cannot talk about NYC food without adding a second pizza joint on the list, right? But listen, 2 Bros Pizza is a different beast altogether. This is where you can get a $1 slice. Yes, you read that right. One dollar. One slice of pizza. Sure, it’s not the fanciest slice, but it’s hot, cheesy, and satisfies your craving for New York-style pizza without breaking the bank. Grab a slice – or five – and consider it a win.
Sit-Down Spots That Won’t Break the Bank
Sometimes, you want to take a load off and enjoy a meal like a civilized person. You’ve walked for miles, you’ve dodged fellow tourists like a pro, and you deserve to sit down, rest, and eat a meal. These sit-down spots are some of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.
John’s Pizzaria of Times Square
Pizza is king in NYC, and John’s Pizzeria reigns supreme in Times Square. Located in a former church, John’s serves up heavenly coal-fired pies that are crispy, cheesy, and just plain delicious.
The best part? If you’re with a group, splitting a pie makes this an incredibly budget-friendly option. Their large pizzas start at around $20, and since each pie is massive, you and your friends will be stuffed without emptying your wallets.
Ollie’s Sichuan
Looking for something with a little more spice? Ollie’s Sichuan is a great spot for Chinese food lovers on a budget. Their lunch specials are an absolute steal, with massive portions for under $15.
You can chow down on stir-fried noodles, dumplings, and spicy Sichuan dishes that will leave you sweating (in a good way). The portions are so generous that you’ll likely have leftovers to take with you, giving you two meals for the price of one.
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Schnipper’s Quality Kitchen
Don’t let the “quality” in the name scare you off – it doesn’t come with a “high price” tag. Schnipper’s Quality Kitchen is a casual spot that’s perfect for burger lovers.
Their juicy burgers, crispy fries, and creamy milkshakes are all top-notch without being overpriced. Plus, they have plenty of vegetarian options, which means there’s something for everyone. You can get a full meal here for under $15, making it a great place to kick back and relax for a bit.
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Burger Bargains: Cheap Eats for the Beef Lover
What’s a trip to New York without a great burger? While it’s easy to spend an arm and a leg on one of those “gourmet” burgers with truffle and gold leaf, you don’t have to. Here are some great spots to grab a burger that’s big on flavor and small on price.
Shake Shack
Although it’s a food chain, but Shake Shack deserves its cult following. Their burgers are juicy, flavorful, and made with 100% all-natural Angus beef. Plus, their famous crinkle-cut fries and milkshakes make it a complete meal.
A classic ShackBurger will set you back about $6. While it’s not the cheapest burger in town, it’s one of the tastiest – and definitely a great value for the quality.
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Five Guys
Another popular chain that’s worth the hype is Five Guys. Their burgers are customizable, meaning you can load them up with as many toppings as you want. Plus, their servings of fries are massive – one order is usually enough to share.
While prices vary depending on how many toppings you add, a basic burger starts at around $7. This makes it one of the more affordable sit-down burger joints near Times Square.
International Flavors: Food from Around the World
Times Square may feel like the center of the universe. So, it’s no surprise that you can find international cuisine from all corners of the globe. Here are a few spots where you can taste the world without spending like you’re traveling it.
Los Tacos No. 1
Tacos in Times Square? Yes, please! Los Tacos No. 1 is hands down one of the best spots in the area for an affordable and delicious taco. Located in the nearby Chelsea Market, it’s just a short walk from Times Square and is a mecca for taco lovers.
If you go for the carne asada, pollo asado, or their incredible adobada pork tacos, you’re in for a treat. The best part? Tacos are under $5, so you can load up without blowing your budget.
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Xi’an Famous Foods
Craving something a little different? Xi’an Famous Foods is known for its hand-pulled noodles and spicy lamb dishes. It’s become a go-to spot for budget-conscious foodies in Times Square.
Located just a few blocks from Times Square, Xi’an offers hearty portions of their signature dishes for around $10. If you’re in the mood for noodles or dumplings, Xi’an will leave you full and satisfied on a budget.
Dos Toros Taqueria
Staying on the taco train, Dos Toros Taqueria is another fantastic option for affordable Mexican fare. With burritos, tacos, and quesadillas all priced under $10, you can fill up without sacrificing quality.
The flavors are fresh, the portions are generous, and the salsas pack just the right amount of heat. Dos Toros Taqueria is a quick, casual option that hits the spot.
Dessert on a Dime: Budget Sweet Treats
What’s a trip to Times Square without a little indulgence? While some of the fancier bakeries in the area can charge hundreds for a tiny pastry, there are still plenty of places that can satisfy your sweet tooth on a budget.
Junior’s Cheesecake
As the name suggests, this place sells cheesecakes. Known for their legendary New York-style cheesecake, Junior’s offers slices that are big enough for two – but why would you want to share?
A slice will set you back around $8, which isn’t the cheapest dessert out there, but it’s definitely worth it. You’ll get a rich, creamy cheesecake that’s been satisfying New Yorkers since 1950 – and you might even want to grab a slice to-go for later.
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Doughnut Plant
For something a little more portable, Doughnut Plant has you covered. Their doughnuts are anything but ordinary, with unique flavors like Crème Brulé, peanut butter and banana, and blackout chocolate.
Prices range from $3 to $5 depending on the size and flavor, but these doughnuts are worth every penny.
Mochidoki
If you’re in the mood for something a little more adventurous, head over to Mochidoki for some mochi ice cream. These bite-sized balls of ice cream wrapped in sweet rice dough come in a variety of delicious flavors. From classic vanilla to exotic matcha green tea, the flavors are endless.
Each mochi ball typically costs around $2.50, making it a fun and affordable way to indulge your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re small enough that you can mix and match flavors without feeling guilty about overindulging!
Late Night Bites: Eating Cheap After the Sun Goes Down
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets in Times Square, and neither does the hunger. If you find yourself out and about late at night, there are still plenty of options for cheap food in Times Square.
Shake Shack (Again)
Guess what? Shake Shack stays open late. So, you can satisfy those burger cravings even at midnight! Whether you want a classic ShackBurger or a crinkle-cut fry fix, Shake Shack is ready to serve you.
Just remember to avoid the late-night taco truck down the block. You don’t want to ruin your night with questionable street food decisions.
Westway Diner
Open 24/7, Westway Diner is a classic New York diner experience. They serve everything from hearty breakfast plates to burgers and sandwiches and have you covered at any hour.
Most meals are around $10, making it a fantastic spot to grab a late-night bite without worrying about prices.
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Planning Your Meal Strategy: Tips for Eating on a Budget
So, you’ve got your list of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget, but how do you make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck? Here are some tips to help you navigate the culinary landscape:
Eat Like a Local
Avoid tourist traps that advertise “authentic New York cuisine.” They usually charge three times the price compared to regular places. Follow the locals to places like Joe’s Pizza or Xi’an Famous Foods.
Lunch Specials
Many restaurants in NYC offer lunch specials that can save you a few bucks. This can help you enjoy a sit-down meal on a budget. Typically, meals of this category are served in large servings, which should be enough to fill you up.
Share Meals
Sometimes portions are very generous in New York. In case, you stumble upon such food, consider sharing a few dishes with friends. This will keep the cost down and enable you to try more variety.
Plan Ahead
Make a list of places you want to visit before you go out. That way, you won’t be tempted by the first overpriced menu you see.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A pathway to cheap eating in New York Times Square that will keep your stomach full and your wallet happy. From quick bites to sit-down meals, there are plenty of best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.
So, next time you pay a visit to Times Square, remember that you don’t have to settle for overpriced meals. You can find fantastic food at reasonable prices if you know where to look. You can just go crazy and eat your heart out without worrying about the cost.
Now go out there and enjoy the sights, sounds, and most importantly, the delicious bites of Times Square – all while keeping your budget intact!
