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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in New York

Inexpensive spots

Inexpensive options that keep your wallet intact while still letting you enjoy the city like everyone else.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated May 2026
01
Kati Thai Cuisine image 1
Kati Thai Cuisine image 2
Kati Thai Cuisine image 3
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Thai restaurant

Bright space with original wall art and lanterns outside creates a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Guests enjoy complimentary cookies and outdoor dining options. The vibe stays chill and comfortable, enhanced by ambient lighting and quiet surroundings.

They offer a 10% student discount on purchases. This discount applies consistently for students.

People are saying

"The Thai food during Happy Hour is spectacular and inexpensive."

"The service here is so kind and welcoming."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and makes you feel right at home."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers until 9 PM.

2

The happy hour menu includes mango margaritas and Thai iced teas.

3

Lunch specials are available every day with generous portions.

02
Unregular Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, cozy pizza shop with no seating except a standing bar and a vibrant, colorful atmosphere. Music plays a retro playlist that adds to the fun, cheerful vibe. The place breaks pizza joint norms with unconventional design and a wide variety of options including vegan and gluten-free crusts.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was incredible."

"The vegan pizza slices here are delicious and super yummy."

"I found the vibe of this place to be really cool."

Good to know

1

There is very limited seating; it's primarily a takeout style restaurant.

2

The price of a slice of pizza is $7.62.

3

If you share 3 pizzas, you get 1 drink for free.

03
He He Cha image 1
Bubble tea store

Cozy space with a cute interior and pleasing aesthetic creates a welcoming, relaxing vibe. Offers variety of bubble tea drinks with fresh toppings and unique ice cream flavors. Features pet treats and a kiosk for ordering, attracting a casual, fun crowd.

Offers student discounts consistently, including 30% off during promotions and sometimes 20% off. Discounts apply to bubble tea purchases and are easy to use.

People are saying

"I thought the milk tea here was really tasty."

"It's a really cute and cozy little spot."

"I loved the student discounts here, especially the 20% off."

Good to know

1

There is a buy one get one free promotion one week before the opening.

2

They offer a 30% discount for all students.

3

The price for a cup of warm hot milk tea is less than 5 dollars.

04
Top Thai Greenwich image 1
Thai restaurant

Tiny restaurant with cozy, welcoming atmosphere and lively music creates an intimate dining experience. Outdoor seating offers an airy, charming space while decor blends traditional Thai elements with modern elegance. Space is limited, often leading to waits outside.

Offers a student discount specifically for NYU students. Includes a lunch menu that works well with the discount.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The Thai food here is so delicious, especially the curry."

"The lunch special is a great deal for a filling meal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until 7 PM with $9 cocktails every day.

2

The lunch special is available only on weekdays.

3

The restaurant has a mandatory 15% tip included for small parties.

05
$1.50 Fresh Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Tiny pizza spot offers standing-room-only dining with bars along the walls for eating. Atmosphere feels chaotic and crowded, often busy with little space inside, but outdoor benches across the street provide seating. Free seasonings add flavor to affordable slices priced at $1.50.

People are saying

"I found the pizza to be cheap and quite good."

"This late night spot's pizza is shockingly good for the price."

"These pizza slices are next level in taste and quality."

Good to know

1

The pizza costs 99 cents a slice.

2

You can get two pieces of pizza and a drink for just $3.

3

They accept only cash for all orders.

06
Just Pho You image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with beautifully decorated and whimsical interior creates a cozy, homey vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxing and pleasant, supported by attentive staff. The place feels genuine and inviting, blending simple design with thoughtful details.

People are saying

"I found the Vietnamese food, especially the pho, to be the best I've had in NYC."

"The spring rolls here are super crispy and fresh."

"The vegan pho and tofu vermicelli were tasty with huge portions."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available from 3-6pm on weekdays.

2

Monthly tasting menu events feature local chefs and unique dishes.

3

The restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions, including gluten-free options.

07
ViVi Bubble Tea - Uptown West image 1

Small shop offers specialty tea drinks and a compact food menu with items like popcorn chicken and Korean fried chicken. Air conditioning and a few indoor tables create a cool, casual atmosphere. Prices are slightly cheaper than nearby competitors, with discounts and a rewards card available.

Good to know

1

They have a points rewards card for frequent customers.

2

The food menu includes inexpensive lunch and bento boxes.

3

They offer a student discount for eligible customers.

08
Long Island Dumplings image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Dumpling restaurant with limited seating and a lively atmosphere offers gluten-free and vegan options alongside traditional dumplings. Many choose takeout due to the small number of tables and bar seats. Food is served in single-use compostable or plastic containers, reflecting a focus on convenience.

Offers a 15% student discount on weekdays with purchases over 15 dollars. Includes a free side of vegan dim sum with the discount.

People are saying

"The crystal shrimp dumplings were perfectly steamed and full of shrimp."

"The vegan dumplings here are really good and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has tasty food with great gluten-free and vegan options."

Good to know

1

There are gluten free options available.

2

The restaurant has limited seating.

3

Customers receive a free side of vegan dim sum with their order.

09
Museum of Illusions - New York image 1

Museum offers interactive optical illusions and life-size installations that challenge perception. Spaces feel small and cramped, with photo opportunities scattered throughout. Atmosphere mixes wonder with crowded energy, engaging both children and adults.

A 10% student discount applies with a valid ID. The discount can reduce the ticket price by about $26 for college students.

People are saying

"I had a super fun time exploring the exhibits."

"It's a really fun place for kids and adults alike."

"It's so Solo Friendly; the staff are really helpful and take your photos."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend at least an hour to see everything.

2

The experience lasts about 45 minutes and features optical illusions.

3

It is advised to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

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