The 12 Best Places to Eat in Times Square on a Budget

Are you in New York City looking for the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget?

Joe’s Pizza is the best place to eat in Times Square on a budget for most people, given its taste and fame. But if you don’t feel like pizza, you’ve come to the right place to find other cheap eats in Midtown? Given our Times Square food walking tour and our regular coverage of the best food in Times Square, we see ourselves as experts in the area. While Times Square is known for its bright lights, bustling atmosphere, and expensive meals, it is also home to a variety of affordable dining options. We’ve compiled a list of the 12 best cheap eats Times Square offers. Without further adieu, here are the restaurants that are our best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

1. Pure Thai Cookhouse

Pure Thai Cookhouse is a hidden gem offering authentic and affordable Thai cuisine. Located just a few blocks from Times Square, this cozy eatery serves up flavorful dishes like Pad Thai and Wok Basil, both under $12. It's a great spot for a budget-friendly, satisfying meal and one of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

2. Szechuan Gourmet

Szechuan Gourmet provides a delicious array of spicy and savory Chinese dishes. Situated near Times Square, this restaurant offers affordable lunch specials and generous portions. Dishes like Dan Dan Noodles and Mapo Tofu are both under $12, making it one of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

3. Margon | The best domincan cheap eats in times square

Margon is a Cuban eatery that offers tasty and affordable meals. Located just off Times Square, this spot is famous for its hearty Cuban sandwiches, roast pork, and rice and beans, all under $12. The casual atmosphere and delicious food make it a perfect budget-friendly option and one of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

4. Toloache Taqueria

Toloache Taqueria offers a delightful Mexican dining experience with reasonable prices. Situated near Times Square, Toloache serves up delicious tacos and quesadillas, with most items under $12. Their vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes make it a great place for a fun, affordable meal and one of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

5. Wok To Walk

Wok To Walk is a quick and budget-friendly spot for Asian-inspired stir-fry dishes. Located near Times Square, you can customize your meal with a variety of noodles, vegetables, and proteins, all under $12. It's a perfect place for a fast, tasty, and affordable meal and definitely one of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

6. Maison Kayser

Maison Kayser offers a taste of France right near Times Square. This bakery and café serve a variety of fresh pastries, sandwiches, and salads, with many items under $12. Enjoy a croissant or a baguette sandwich for a delicious and budget-friendly meal. For baked goods it is one of the best cheap eats Times Square offers.

7. Joe's Pizza

If you’ve read our pizza blog post, you’ll know how much we love Joe’s. Joe's Pizza is a legendary New York pizzeria known for its delicious, affordable slices. Located in the heart of Times Square, it’s the perfect place to grab a quick and tasty slice of classic New York pizza, with prices under $12.

8. 2 Bros Pizza

2 Bros Pizza is known for its incredibly cheap and delicious pizza slices. At just a dollar a slice, it’s one of the best deals in Times Square. Perfect for a quick, budget-friendly meal on the go, all under $12.

9. Empanada Mama

Empanada Mama offers a variety of delicious and affordable empanadas. With a location near Times Square, this spot serves up both traditional and inventive fillings, making it a great place to grab a quick, budget-friendly meal. Their empanadas are perfect for a tasty snack or a light lunch.

10. Xi’an Famous Foods

It’s no secret we love Chinese food and for years, Xi’an Famous Foods has been our favorite Western Chinese restaurant. Xi’an Famous Foods is known for its flavorful and affordable Chinese street food. Their spicy lamb noodles and cumin lamb burgers are favorites, with most items under $12. A great spot for a cheap and tasty meal near Times Square.

11. Ess-a-Bagel

Ess-a-Bagel is a must-visit for bagel lovers. Located near Times Square, this local bagel shop serves up freshly baked bagels with a variety of spreads and toppings, all under $12. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic bagel with cream cheese or a hearty bagel sandwich, Ess-a-Bagel offers a tasty and affordable option.

12. Patzeria Perfect Pizza

Patzeria Perfect Pizza offers classic New York-style pizza at wallet-friendly prices. Located near Times Square, this pizzeria is known for its flavorful slices and fast service, with prices under $12. It's an ideal choice for a quick bite on the go.

Times Square offers a variety of budget-friendly dining options that allow you to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. From classic New York pizza to flavorful international cuisine, these twelve restaurants provide great food at great prices. These are truly some of the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget.

Is finding the best places to eat in Times Square on a budget too overwhelming?

If finding the best places to eat in times square on a budget is too overwhelming for you, then you’re in luck. We offer a Times Square Historical food and walking tour that is perfect for you! On this tour, you’ll eat four famous and innovative foods in four famous places, all on a comfortable walking tour. You can find out more on our landing page, and if you have any questions, fill out the form below.