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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Central LA

Affordable food

A meal that fits a modest budget without making you feel like you are sacrificing quality or settling for fast-food shortcuts.

Based on 801 Opinions
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01
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Small cafe with historic building and vinyl wall creates a warm, cozy atmosphere filled with plants and sunlight. Background music stays calm and chill, supporting a friendly, respectful environment. Space feels spacious and well-decorated, inviting for meetings or casual visits.

Tasty food pairs well with great coffee here. Pastries and dishes consistently deliver amazing flavors.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Cakes and the Dubai chocolate stand out for their great value.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and genuinely homemade."

"I felt instantly at home when George greeted me and my puppy."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens at 7am and closes at 7pm.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

Expect a limited drink menu due to recent ownership changes.

02
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Small sushi spot offers a cozy, minimalistic atmosphere with Afrohouse and Rufus music playing softly. The space includes just a few tables and bar seats, creating an intimate vibe. Sushi is fresh and affordable, with standout dishes like smoked tuna and miso black cod.

Food arrives quickly and stays fresh and delicious. The happy hour menu offers a large variety of tasty options at a good price.

Sushi comes in big portions at super affordable prices. This spot stands out as one of the most budget-friendly sushi options around.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and well presented."

"I found the sushi here to be super affordable and big."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers many options, most under $10.

2

Free parking is available in the back after 6 pm.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours as there's often only one person serving.

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Restaurant offers affordable healthy meals with local ingredients and a variety of vegan options. Atmosphere is clean and chill with loud music and outdoor seating available. Frequent hour changes affect regular visits, but food quality remains high and filling.

Affordable, high quality food offers great taste and healthy options. The spicy shrimp and noodle bowl stands out with a flavor like a five-star restaurant dish.

Meals offer affordable prices while staying healthy and filling. Discounts and deals make multiple meals cost-effective for everyday takeout.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and excellently prepared."

"It's a high-quality, filling, and affordable meal option."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they have a buy one, get one 50% off deal.

2

Prices range from $8-$10 per meal, making it affordable.

3

You can heat up your food in-store if you choose to eat there.

04
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Small hole-in-the-wall bakery with onsite pastry production and a take-out only setup. Lines form early due to popular dim sum and baked goods, including unique items like almond rice cake. Atmosphere feels old-fashioned and busy, with one person serving long lines in a compact space.

Food comes fresh and tastes insanely tasty while staying very cheap and affordable. Pastries and dishes offer quick service and reasonable prices even when busy.

Large cake rolls and big custard egg tarts come at low prices. Pastries, dim sum, and pineapple custard buns stay affordable and fresh compared to other spots.

People are saying

"The dim sum and pastries here are tasty and affordable."

"I found the pastries here to be super affordable and good quality."

Good to know

1

Long’s Family Pastry is a take-out only establishment.

2

Expect popular items to sell out by 7:30 am.

3

Cash is preferred, but credit cards are accepted with a $10 minimum order.

05
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Small dining room with traditional Chinese decor and soothing music creates a family-oriented, authentic vibe. Atmosphere stays lively but not loud, with workers chatting and cooking sounds blending into the background. Humble, no-frills setting feels welcoming and comforting.

Food here is authentic Chinese with a super delicious taste. It stands out as some of the best Chinese food in Chinatown.

Food prices stay consistently affordable here. Meals for two come at a budget-friendly cost without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

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

"The food here is good and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available with metered spots in the front and a lot in the back.

2

The prices are reasonable, and portions are generous.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

06
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Small market with cozy atmosphere and warm vibe feels like a Japanese convenience store. Offers fresh, affordable sushi and sashimi with generous portions. Includes limited seating inside and outdoors for quick dining.

Hot foods and sushi stand out with a great variety. The selection also includes desserts and a good range of Sake and small gift items.

Fresh seafood and sushi come at affordable prices here. Options include sashimi, rolls, and Bento boxes that are easy to grab and go.

People are saying

"The sushi and sashimi here are always incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"I found the sushi here to be fresh and affordable."

Good to know

1

Most sushi is priced under $10, making it affordable.

2

There is a free shared parking garage with limited spaces available.

3

They require 24-hour advance notice to order sushi platters.

07
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Open layout with unique decor and homage to recording artists creates a stylish, laid-back vibe. Strong drinks and live DJs set a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Large bar and back patio offer ample space for socializing and unwinding.

Food offers flavor and depth with consistent quality. Hospitality complements the great food experience.

Food and drinks come at very affordable prices, including happy hour specials. Cocktails stay budget-friendly despite the economy.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and prepared with care."

"It's refreshing to find such affordable options in LA."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with $8 well drinks, burgers, and shots.

2

Wing Wednesday features $1 wings, making it a popular choice.

3

Karaoke night starts at 10 PM on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

08
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Neon decor and spacious seating create a stylish, intimate setting with a relaxed vibe. Soft music keeps the atmosphere easy for conversation despite occasional crowd noise. Robots roam the space, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Food here is delicious and affordable with exceptional prices for the quality. Teriyaki chicken is not too oily, and service complements the satisfying meals.

Pricing stays consistently affordable, especially during Happy Hour. Food quality remains fresh and good without raising costs.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty and the portions are generous."

"The sushi here is delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm-6pm and 8pm-9pm with discounted rolls and drinks.

2

Parking is available in the Crescent Heights Plaza Parking area, including underground options.

3

Most rolls and appetizers are on the happy hour menu at discounted prices.

09
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Halal restaurant offers traditional Central Asian decor with cozy lighting and a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like an Uzbek teahouse. The space is clean and comfortable, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment reminiscent of a home setting.

Food here features authentic Central Asian flavors with a focus on Tajik and Uzbek dishes. All offerings are halal, delivering rich and diverse tastes from Uzbeki, Afghani, and Tajiki cuisines.

Prices stay consistently affordable across all dishes. Food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The beef plov food was aromatic and full of flavor."

"I found the food to be good and affordable."

Good to know

1

The food is halal.

2

Water and bread are free.

3

They have free parking for cars.

10
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Pop-up tent setup with no seating, where people eat standing or at their cars creates a casual, open-air vibe. An open sauce bar and massive toppings table offer free sauces and customization. Known for authentic, highly praised tacos, it draws a crowd despite minimal amenities.

Authentic Mexican street food shines through in the tacos, burritos, and quesadillas with generous amounts of quality meat. The flavors stand out as truly classic and unbeatable.

Tacos cost just two dollars each and burritos go for about ten dollars, making the menu very affordable overall.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos and burritos were the best I had ever eaten."

"I found the tacos to be affordable at two dollars each."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost just $2 each, which is an extremely good deal.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere with an endless traffic of customers.

3

The full menu is not available until 30 minutes after posted hours.

11
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Hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop with plastic stools and makeshift seating creates a no-frills, cozy vibe reminiscent of roadside spots in Vietnam. Atmosphere stays chill and neighborhood-focused, attracting those seeking authentic banh mi. Takeout dominates due to limited space and casual setup.

Small hole-in-the-wall spot serves basic Vietnamese sandwiches and drinks with assorted snack foods. Food is inexpensive and often taken to go due to limited seating.

Classic banh mi comes at super affordable prices in a hole-in-the-wall setting. Food stays inexpensive without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

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

"I found the banh mi here to be classic, dependably good, and affordable."

Good to know

1

All orders are for takeout only, with no seating available for dining in.

2

The shop accepts cash only; remember to bring cash.

3

Verify your order before leaving, as mistakes can happen.

12
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Korean barbecue restaurant with all-you-can-eat menu and massive ventilation vents keeps the air clear despite active grilling. The atmosphere is lively and cozy, filled with loud music and weekend crowds creating a vibrant energy. Large TVs show sports, adding to the active, social vibe.

Food offers great quality and a wide variety of options. Staff assist with ordering the right amount, making the experience smooth and the dishes consistently delicious.

All-you-can-eat options come at a very affordable price. Lunch menus include beef choices and tasty side dishes without costing much.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasty."

"I was shocked at how affordable the all-you-can-eat experience was."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts after 10 pm with discounted drinks.

2

Guests have 90 minutes to order and enjoy the all-you-can-eat menu.

3

A special birthday light show features strobe lights for celebrations.

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Small space decorated with retro Korean street market graphics and graffiti creates a cozy, nostalgic vibe. Walls invite writing, adding to the interactive charm. Atmosphere feels like an old Korean snack bar with vibrant lighting and playful details.

Affordable and authentic Korean street food shines here with dishes like sweet and sour chicken, rabokki, and oden soup. Food arrives fresh and hot with quick, efficient service.

Offers very affordable prices with decent serving sizes. Food stays true to Korean street style and remains inexpensive throughout.

People are saying

"I found the Korean food here to be really good and affordable."

"I found the Korean street food here to be classic and affordable."

Good to know

1

There is free parking behind the store, but spaces are limited.

2

The prices range from $6 to $12, providing great value.

3

The small portion costs $5 and is perfect for lunch.

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Small space with intricate Thai artwork and dim lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. The place fills up quickly during peak hours and operates on a cash-only, take-out-only basis. A nearby patio offers a separate sitting area since no seating is available inside.

Food arrives very hot and is packed with care. Dishes offer affordable portions with consistent quality and flavor.

Prices stay affordable even with rising costs. Food options are tasty and consistently budget-friendly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always served hot."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Thai Deli accepts only cash payments.

2

Thai Deli offers take-out only with no dine-in options.

3

Call in your order to avoid long wait times.

15
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Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with dishes like red mole enchiladas and birria tacos made from high-quality ingredients. Atmosphere is charming and clean, with a quiet vibe near closing time. Limited parking and a modest exterior contrast with the rich, traditional menu inside.

Authentic Mexican food comes in large portions with mouthwatering flavors. Service matches the excellent quality of the dishes.

Prices stay consistently affordable with reasonable service. Food quality matches the value, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious dining.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"I found the food to be very good and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking might be limited during peak hours.

2

The parking lot is small and shared with other businesses.

3

Prices are affordable, but some menu items lack listed prices.

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Small space with cozy booths and authentic Thai decor creates an intimate, home-y atmosphere. Calm and comfortable vibe invites relaxed dining. Offers varied northern Thai dishes with flavors reflecting genuine Thailand cuisine.

Authentic Thai dishes deliver hearty flavors and consistent quality. Prices stay unbelievably good while service remains friendly and reliable.

Small size pairs with very affordable prices. Food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I thought the food was authentic Thai."

"It's a small, very affordable Thai restaurant."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $10-$11 per entrée, making it affordable.

2

The portions are large, so consider sharing dishes.

3

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, so plan accordingly.

17
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Food truck offers authentic Mexican tacos with inexpensive prices and outdoor seating in a bustling street food atmosphere. Crowds gather for classic LA street taco vibe and casual dining in the parking lot or at simple tables. Energy stays lively with a focus on quick, flavorful bites.

Street tacos offer authentic Mexican flavors with a focus on tacos al pastor. Food comes at affordable prices and carries a strong ethnic taste and aroma.

Small tacos come at a very affordable price and taste good. Drinks like aguas de piña and horchata are also inexpensive and served in small portions.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the tacos."

"I found the tacos to be tasty and affordable."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments or Zelle.

2

Parking is available across from the car wash.

3

Tacos are priced at $1.50 each.

18
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Small space with disco ball ceiling and modern decor creates a casual, bustling vibe. Bar seating and open kitchen window add to the intimate, creative atmosphere. Music and lighting give a relaxed, jazz bar feel.

Food comes in plentiful portions and is inexpensive. The dishes are authentic and delicious, making it worth the drive for many.

Prices stay consistently affordable with inexpensive dishes and plentiful portions that offer good value.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be tasty and reasonably priced."

"I found the food here to be excellent and very affordable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or call ahead.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find.

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Spacious diner with checkered floors and shiny chrome accents creates a classic, retro vibe. Music features 80s and 90s hits played on a jukebox, adding to a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The environment feels relaxed and friendly, with many tables and comfortable seating.

Food arrives quickly and stays hot. The menu offers classic American diner comfort food served with care to ensure accuracy.

Meals come out very quickly and stay hot. Prices stay cheap and affordable while the food remains tasty and clean.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful with the food."

"I found the food tasty and it came out very quickly."

Good to know

1

NORMS Restaurant opens 24/7 for all-day dining.

2

Parking is plentiful at NORMS Restaurant.

3

The T-bone steak promotion is popular among diners.

20
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Classic old school Chinese seafood restaurant with vintage décor and walls adorned by Manny Pacquiao memorabilia creates a nostalgic atmosphere. The vibe blends warm elegance with a slightly grungy, well-preserved feel. Regulars enjoy authentic Cantonese dishes served in a welcoming, family-run setting.

Food arrives quickly and tastes consistently fresh and terrific. Portions come huge and offer great value for the price.

Prices stay inexpensive with a no frills approach. The lunch menu offers affordable food selections that taste good.

People are saying

"The food here is great and bursting with flavor."

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

Good to know

1

Lunch specials include Kung Pao Chicken and Dumplings for under $10.

2

Mayflower Seafood Restaurant accepts all major credit cards.

3

Parking can be tough; consider using a nearby parking lot.

21
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Large, clean space combines fast-casual style with an authentic Greek atmosphere featuring traditional music. Energy feels both Americanized and elegant, creating a unique dining vibe. Frequent visits by local police add a subtle sense of security.

Pork Belly Gyros offers a taste close to authentic Athenian street food. Food is consistently flavorful, warm, and fresh with generous portions at reasonable prices.

Food comes at extremely affordable prices without sacrificing quality. Staff are kind and the place stays super clean.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was spectacular and incredibly fresh."

"The food's incredible value for money, it's so affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult; expect limited availability nearby.

2

Prices are higher than typical fast food, more like sit-down restaurant prices.

3

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

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Cozy hole-in-the-wall with red couches and booths creates a pleasant vibe. Neon lights reflect on wet pavement outside, adding to the atmosphere. Known for authentic Thai food with affordable prices and a packed but efficient setting.

Tasty cuisine offers excellent Thai food at very reasonable prices. The dishes are consistently amazing and well priced.

Prices stay consistently affordable here, making it easy to enjoy meals without stretching your budget. The vibe matches the value with a fun, old school feel.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

"I thought the prices were affordable, like pre-pandemic."

Good to know

1

Torung Restaurant only accepts cash, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no parking available at Torung Restaurant.

3

Expect a long wait to be seated during peak hours.

23
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Traditional Cantonese decor sets a familiar tone in a busy space with a to-go window and table service side by side. The atmosphere is lively and often packed late at night, drawing those seeking affordable, quick seafood and dim sum. Food quality varies, but standout dishes like shrimp dumplings and pork chops attract repeat visits.

Food offers delicious flavors with standout dishes like duck and noodles. Portions come generous and affordable, making it a simple spot for authentic Chinese meals to go.

Prices stay affordable with meals that are both delicious and inexpensive. Food comes quickly, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious diners.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special for dine-in customers.

2

ABC Seafood Restaurant is a take-out only place with no seating available.

3

Parking can be a challenge, but the restaurant offers free parking.

24
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Dim sum restaurant with banquet-style seating and a retro Chinatown vibe offers a spacious interior suited for large groups. Atmosphere ranges from family-style dining with lively energy to quieter, more rushed moments. Dim sum carts and traditional decor add to the authentic experience.

Food offers authentic Chinese flavors with consistent quality every visit. Dim sum and other dishes come at a price that matches the tasty, flavorful experience.

Dim sum offers super affordable prices with delicious options. Pricing stays consistently affordable throughout the menu.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very tasty and flavorful."

"I found the dim sum here to be super affordable and delicious."

Good to know

1

Visiting on weekends offers a busy yet tasty dim sum experience with trolley carts to choose from.

2

During the Mid Autumn Festival 2024 on September 17, the restaurant encourages celebrating and enjoying their dishes.

3

Parking can fill up quickly during lunch hours.

25
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Outdoor areas showcase early 1920s Chinese architecture with lanterns and decorations creating a picturesque setting. Atmosphere varies from quiet and empty to lively during events featuring food trucks and live performances. The place blends cultural heritage with family-friendly activities and traditional Asian food options.

Offers a variety of Chinese food that is consistently delicious and tasty. Combines traditional items with a cultural dining experience.

Shops offer inexpensive merchandise and salons provide very affordable services. Drinks and general shopping stay within a budget-friendly range.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very traditional."

"I found the merchandise and salons to be affordable."

Good to know

1

Many shops are closed on Sundays, limiting shopping options.

2

Chinatown Central Plaza hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

3

The Lunar New Year parade is a major event attracting many visitors.

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Mexican restaurant offers a bare-bones setup with outdoor patio seating that feels like a vintage Los Angeles vibe. The atmosphere stays chill and lively, with a self-serve salsa bar adding customization to the experience.

Food here is fresh, flavorful, and simple with dishes like fish, shrimp, and potato tacos, plus taquitos. Homemade juices such as horchata and hibiscus complement the high quality meals offered at an incredible price.

Simple, delicious fish tacos come at affordable prices here. The tacos offer great value without sacrificing flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and the prices were great."

"I found the fish tacos delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs between $3.50 and $4.50, and drinks are only a dollar each.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so you can bring your own drinks.

3

Comedy night occurs on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month.

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Fast-food style Mexican restaurant offers spacious seating and self-serve condiment bar with unlimited garnishes. Atmosphere is clean and well-lit but can feel stifled without air conditioning. Popular for affordable tacos and burritos with quick service and easy access to fresh toppings.

Food features authentic Mexican cuisine with gourmet style dishes like lengua quesadilla and refried beans. Tacos, burritos, and quesadillas offer consistent quality and fast service outside of food trucks.

Prices stay consistently affordable with burritos that are both fresh and delicious. Food quality matches the low cost, making it a solid value.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and amazing."

"I thought the prices here were super affordable."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on-site for customers.

2

The restaurant is clean and has well-maintained facilities.

3

Prices are reasonable, with many affordable options available.

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Building features Art Deco style with high ceilings and white glazed brick create a spacious, historic setting. Atmosphere blends sophisticated yet welcoming vibes with some noise, resembling a nostalgic cafeteria. Crowd tends to be friendly, enjoying a mix of vintage charm and contemporary decor.

Fine Italian food comes with great service and reasonable prices. Family-style dining adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

Prices stay very affordable even after COVID. Italian food offers good value for families looking for cheap meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The prices here are very affordable, especially for a family meal."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $2 for 90 minutes with restaurant validation.

2

The back of the restaurant has a parking lot with an attendant.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

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