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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Mid Central

Affordable spots

Dining that fits a modest budget without making you feel like you are settling for low-quality ingredients.

Based on 567 Opinions
+564
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Updated August 2026
01
HaiCha image 1
HaiCha image 2
HaiCha image 3
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Bubble tea store

Cozy space with comfortable seating and calming music offers a family-run vibe. Affordable drinks provide great value without losing quality. Free wireless chargers and Wi-Fi make it perfect for study or casual hangouts.

Drinks come at affordable prices without sacrificing quality. This small cafe offers great value with tasty options that fit a budget.

People are saying

"I found the tea here to be fresh, flavorful, and wonderfully smooth."

"I thought the bubble tea here was the best I ever had."

"I found the drinks here to be great and affordable."

Good to know

1

HaiCha opens before 11 AM.

2

Getting to HaiCha is very easy and there is street parking right outside the shop.

3

HaiCha has restrooms for customers.

02
Chaaste Family Market image 1

Family-owned market offers authentic Filipino soul food in a cafeteria-style layout with generous portions. Prices stay very affordable while food remains delicious. Warm, welcoming vibe feels like a family kitchen filled with happiness.

Food comes at a very affordable price while staying delicious and incredible.

People are saying

"You have to try their handmade Turon desserts with unique flavors."

"I found authentic Filipino food that reminded me of home."

"I found the Filipino food here to be very authentic."

Good to know

1

They only sell halo halo from Thursday through Saturday.

2

You can order turon ahead of time for fresh preparation.

3

Parking is convenient and available nearby.

03
Saga Motor Hotel Pasadena image 1

Retro 60s motel offers vintage decor and a quiet atmosphere. Garden-level rooms open to a clean pool surrounded by palm trees. Pricing is affordable, perfect for budget travelers seeking charm and comfort.

Rooms offer clean, inexpensive lodging with a non-chain motel feel. Pricing fits well for those seeking affordable stays.

People are saying

"The continental breakfast had fresh fruit and good coffee."

"This hotel's pool area is really nice, surrounded by palm trees."

"It's a great spot for affordable lodging, simply furnished and very clean."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a minimal breakfast for guests each morning.

2

Parking is plentiful and available for guests.

3

The hotel is located on the Rose Parade route, making it convenient for attendees.

04
Dumpling Wei Pasadena image 1
Chinese restaurant

Space offers cozy atmosphere with warm lighting and casual vibe. Food features authentic dumplings and handmade noodles at very affordable prices. Meals are tasty, filling, and perfect for students.

Food comes at a very affordable price, making it accessible for students. Dishes are tasty and filling without costing much.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and reminds me of Shanghai."

"The handmade dumplings and noodles here are delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Free parking is available, along with meter parking.

2

Expect no wait times during weekday evenings.

3

The restaurant offers big portions at reasonable prices.

05
ALittle Tea - Pasadena image 1
Bubble tea store

Cozy bubble tea shop offers affordable prices with free toppings like pearls and tea jelly. Clean, cute interior creates a warm atmosphere perfect for studying or hanging out. Convenient free parking behind the store makes visits easy.

Drinks here are affordable and maintain high quality, unlike many places charging $7 to $10. Milk tea and boba stand out as both delicious and budget-friendly.

People are saying

"The tea here is high quality and pretty cheap."

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

"I found parking available in the back, which was super convenient."

Good to know

1

There was free parking at the back of the store.

2

The prices were affordable without compromising on quality.

3

They provided many free toppings, including pearls and tea jelly.

06
Phở Bánh Mì Chè Cali image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot serves authentic bánh mì and fresh pho with a vegetable and sauce bar. It stays affordable with quick, tasty meals. Busy vibe peaks with take-away orders near college crowd.

Food comes out quickly and stays inexpensive while being freshly prepared and delicious. Quality stays good without raising prices.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here is fantastic and affordable."

"The Obama banh mi at this lunch spot is flavorful with crusty bread."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers free drinks every day from 2-5pm.

2

A big bowl of Pho costs $12.99, which is a great deal.

3

Parking is limited and tight, so arrive early.

07
Kaiba Japanese Ramen, Sushi & Grill - Pasadena image 1

Japanese spot blends upscale interior with a chill vibe perfect for quiet meals or dates. Affordable ramen and sushi make dining easy on the wallet. Covered patio and TVs add comfort and entertainment.

Ramen offers very affordable options while individual items can be pricier. Rolls and sushi provide delicious and affordable choices overall.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"You have to try the frozen beer; it's a must-try."

"I found their sushi rolls to be affordable and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals on beer are available.

2

Lunch deals offer great value for money.

3

Parking is limited to one hour in the back lot.

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Mid Central, Pasadena

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