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Cheap Eats in Kearny Mesa

A meal that is actually cheap without making you feel like you are sacrificing your standards to save a few dollars.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Daiso - Japanese Household Goods image 1
Daiso - Japanese Household Goods image 2
Daiso - Japanese Household Goods image 3
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Asian household goods store

Store offers very cheap prices on unique Japanese household items. Space feels clean and organized, perfect for browsing unusual gifts and daily goods. Visitors enjoy a larger selection than similar shops, blending practicality with fun.

Prices stay consistently very cheap across all items. Products combine affordability with good quality and a fun vibe.

People are saying

"I found the products here to be cheap and great."

"These fun activities, like Legos, are affordable and help you slow down."

"I found so many unique items, especially from Japan."

Good to know

1

All sales are final, so check items carefully before purchasing.

2

Daiso accepts limited credit and debit cards; bring cash just in case.

3

Free parking is available, but it can be difficult to find at peak times.

02
In-N-Out Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small burger spot with a 1950s diner vibe and lively energy. Burgers are juicy and affordable, with meals under $20. Space feels cozy but cramped, and drive-thru can be tricky.

Prices stay really cheap with meals like two burgers, animal fries, lemonade, and hot cocoa coming in under $20. Shakes are handmade and also cheap, while burgers are juicy and affordable.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and always great."

"I found their burgers to be excellent and juicy."

"The burgers were cheap and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to limited spots and a long drive-thru line.

2

The drive-thru is super fast, making it convenient for quick meals.

3

Prices are affordable, with meals often under $20.

03
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Asian restaurant

Small space with bright, clean interior and relaxing music creates a cozy vibe. Meals cost between $10 and $15, making it very cheap. Extra broth to go adds great value for takeout.

Prices range from $10 to $15, making meals very cheap compared to other spots. The place offers extra broth to go at no extra cost, adding value to takeout orders.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is delicious and affordable."

"The pork cutlet curry rice was delicious, with a savory and sweet gravy."

"They're so cheap with the broth, I always order extra."

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

04
Zion Market image 1
Korean grocery store

Large, modern Korean grocery store offers cheap fresh produce and affordable Korean snacks. Spacious aisles and bright lighting create a pleasant shopping experience. Food court and bakery provide diverse Korean cuisine with lively K-pop music adding energy.

Fresh produce comes at cheap prices, especially fruits and vegetables. Small quantities are available, and items like shrimps, Korean snacks, and kimchi are also affordable.

People are saying

"This market has a great variety of fresh produce and Asian snacks."

"I found the fresh kimchi and rice cakes to be my loyal sidekicks."

"I found the fruits and vegetables to be cheap."

Good to know

1

There are special offers every week.

2

Zion Market has a great selection of seafood, both fresh and frozen.

3

Expect to find the best deals on produce in California.

05
BOOKOFF San Diego image 1
Used book store

Used bookstore offers cheap prices on a wide range of books, games, and movies. Fans enjoy anime collectibles and Funko Pop figures in a cozy, friendly space. Diverse selection includes Japanese imports and nerdy media for enthusiasts.

Most media and books sell for dirt cheap prices. The selection includes cheap import games and a diverse range of used books.

People are saying

"I found browsing for treasures and collectibles here to be super fun."

"I found the shop really cool for checking out figures and media."

"You can find tons of cheap books and media here."

Good to know

1

BookOff evaluates up to five boxes of books per day per person; photo ID required.

2

Parking at the Hawthorne Crossings shopping center can be challenging.

3

They constantly have $2 manga flash sales.

06
Carriage House Cocktails & Karaoke image 1

Small dive bar offers cheap cold beers and a casual vibe with pool tables and karaoke. Crowd sings along with lively energy in a worn, dark space. Perfect for budget-friendly late-night fun.

Cold beers on tap come at a cheap price here. Drinks stay affordable, making it a solid spot for budget-friendly karaoke.

People are saying

"The Karaoke host Lyndsey is so kind and energetic."

"The drinks here are cheap and cold."

"It's a casual place to meet the best people."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 9 PM every night with a one-drink minimum.

2

Bingo night is on Wednesdays, offering a fun alternative to karaoke.

3

You can bring in your own food as long as you clean up afterward.

07
Walmart image 1
Department store

Wide open store offers solar-powered parking and friendly service. Prices stay consistently cheap on fresh and delicious items. Pharmacy has a free blood pressure machine and efficient service.

Prices stay consistently cheap across fresh and delicious items. Shopping feels quick and easy with friendly service.

People are saying

"I found the parking available to be more than ample."

"I could get groceries and almost everything else I needed in one stop."

"I found everything to be fresh, delicious, and cheap."

Good to know

1

This Walmart store doesn't have a meat department or fresh produce.

2

There was ample and secure parking.

3

I found the pharmacy at Walmart to be very efficient.

08
Food 4 Less image 1
Grocery store

Wide aisles and a large parking lot make shopping quick and easy. Affordable prices include cheap fruity wines and fresh produce. The store feels a bit grubby but stays organized and clean for efficient shopping.

Many products come at very cheap prices while maintaining good quality. The selection includes cheap fruity wines not commonly found elsewhere.

People are saying

"I found the food items to be reasonably priced."

"This grocery store has noticeably cheaper prices than others."

"I found the products here to be cheap and fresh."

Good to know

1

Food 4 Less offers a wide variety of groceries, including produce, meat, and dairy.

2

The store is known for its low prices compared to major grocery chains.

3

Expect the store to be busy during peak hours; plan your visit accordingly.

09
H Mart Balboa image 1
Korean grocery store

Huge Korean grocery store has authentic Asian foods and fresh seafood. Food court offers cheap Korean food with few filler items. Crowded aisles make cart maneuvering tough but walls show maker-inspired graphics.

Offers cheap Korean food with few cheap filler products available.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very fresh and plentiful."

"This grocery store has authentic Asian ingredients I can't find elsewhere."

"I found the produce and Korean food to be cheap and good quality."

Good to know

1

H Mart Balboa offers a large selection of Korean food and snacks.

2

Parking can be challenging at times.

3

The store is clean and well-organized.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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