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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Francisco's best

Cheap eats

Made for those who prioritize affordability and believe that a satisfying meal should never break the bank.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 1
Cantoo Latin Asian Rotisserie image 2
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Asian fusion restaurant

Basement setting with grotto-like atmosphere and remnants of previous restaurants creates a unique, slightly shabby but welcoming vibe. Latin American music plays softly, adding to the peaceful and cozy environment. Spacious and clean interior feels like a blend of casual dining and cultural character.

Food blends Venezuelan-Chinese flavors with Asian and Latin influences. Dishes come at very reasonable prices and offer strong, delicious tastes.

Food comes at a very cheap price here. Service moves fast, like a cafeteria style spot, offering several good cheap options.

People are saying

"The empanadas are huge, with delicious fillings like shredded beef."

"The food here is fresh, crispy, and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates its one-year anniversary in December with special events.

2

Expect a diverse menu featuring unique Asian-Venezuelan dishes.

3

Portions are generous and reasonably priced for the area.

02
Sushi Easy image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny sushi spot offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with cute decor and a pleasant playlist. The space feels intimate but not crowded, creating a relaxed vibe. Affordable prices pair with fresh, high-quality sushi for a great value experience.

Fresh ingredients and quick delivery define the food here. The menu offers both sushi and cooked dishes with high quality and authentic flavors.

Prices stay consistently cheap while offering basic sushi that beats grocery store quality. The value stands out given the quality received for the cost.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I was stunned by how cheap everything was and the quality I received."

Good to know

1

Prices at Sushi Easy are very reasonable for the quality of sushi offered.

2

They offer good meal deals that provide great value.

3

Sushi Easy is known for its high-quality ingredients in every dish.

03
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel image 1

Hostel offers quiet dorms with spacious bunk beds and ample storage under each bed. Social areas host free activities and communal meals, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Rooftop terrace and central location near major attractions add to its appeal.

Free food includes breakfast, dinner, and snacks like sandwiches and Ramen. Staff arrange vegetarian options and host social events with Taco and BBQ nights.

Offers cheap dorms and shared rooms, making it a solid choice for budget travelers. Prices stay low even in an expensive city, with accommodating options for exploring around.

People are saying

"The rooftop BBQ nights were the best part of my stay."

"The food here is super convenient to some of the best in the city."

"This hostel was cheap and nice for exploring San Francisco."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily events like BBQs and karaoke to foster social interaction.

2

Free tacos are served on Taco Tuesdays, adding to the hostel's community vibe.

3

Guests enjoy a free communal breakfast and coffee/tea each morning.

04
NORTHERN CHINA BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious barbecue restaurant offers authentic Northern Chinese skewers and late-night dining with chill Cantonese and Mandarin music. The atmosphere balances stylish, clean decor with a comfortable, lively vibe where conversations range from quiet to spirited.

Food arrives quickly and offers authentic Northern Chinese flavors with beautiful seasoning. Dishes like dry pot, skewers, beef, and fish pot come in generous portions at reasonable prices.

Skewers offer good value and are cheap. Lamb skewers cost more and do not match their price in quality. Overall, prices are not consistently cheap.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese BBQ here to be the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The lamb skewers are cheap and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 11pm, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Street parking is available, but finding a spot can be challenging.

3

You can request to pay through an app, but payment is processed by a server.

05
Mellis Cafe image 1

Small cafe with outdoor seating and cozy atmosphere offers a friendly vibe that shifts from bustling mornings to homey evenings. Arabic pop music plays softly in the background, enhancing the welcoming environment. Few tables outside provide a quiet spot to enjoy flavorful coffee and sandwiches.

Food here is freshly made, not premade or reheated like at other coffee shops. The menu includes items like a bagel with cream, cucumber, tomato, and extra avocado that are flavorful and healthy for on-the-go meals.

Offers cheap, filling sandwiches and snacks. Croissants come with an inch of cold ham and partially melted cheap cheese.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I found cheap sandwiches, bagels, and snacks here."

Good to know

1

Mellis Cafe opens at 5:00 a.m. and stays open until midnight.

2

Expect reasonable prices for sandwiches and breakfast items.

3

Mellis Cafe is ideal for quick breakfast and coffee options.

06
Social Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Family-run coffee shop offers authentic Cuban flavors with affordable pastries and high-quality coffee. Outdoor seating under direct sun creates a cozy, friendly atmosphere with an impeccable open kitchen. The place attracts those seeking genuine Cuban food and a welcoming vibe.

Authentic Cuban food stands out with fresh pastries and delicious flavors. Owners show clear passion, making the food feel genuine and satisfying.

Pastries and croquettes offer a quick, cheap food option near the courthouse. Pastelitos come in small sizes and are also affordable.

People are saying

"I thought the Cuban sandwich at this cafe was perfect."

"I found the Cuban food here to be authentic and tasty."

"The pastries here are delicious and cheap."

Good to know

1

Most pastries at Social Cafe cost around $2 each, making them affordable.

2

If you have a busy day, they have online ordering for easy pickup and delivery.

3

The total cost for 2 cortados, 2 Cuban sandwiches, and 2 guava pastries was $44.

07
H Mart San Francisco image 1
Korean grocery store

Brightly lit Korean grocery store with well organized and spacious layout features a mini food court offering quick eats and a bakery. The atmosphere is lively and sometimes overstimulating with loud Kpop music and the smell of roasting sweet potatoes. Crowds create a busy, chaotic vibe that feels authentic to Korean markets.

Fresh and tasty food stands out with a wide selection of Korean dishes and authentic products. Multiple food vendors offer delicious prepared meals including Korean corn dogs in the food court.

Cheap bento boxes and kimchi fried rice bowls stand out among the fresh prepared meals. Some items like kimchi and tteokbokki are affordable, but prices vary and not everything is cheap.

People are saying

"This grocery store has an amazing selection of Asian staples and produce."

"The food court here has a lot of delicious choices."

"I found the prepared meals and kimchi to be cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

H Mart offers a wide variety of Asian groceries, especially Korean products.

2

The supermarket is known for its high-quality fresh seafood and produce.

3

Parking is available, but it can get crowded during peak hours.

08
Green Tortoise Hostel San Francisco image 1

Hostel occupies a spectacular vintage building with huge common areas including a ballroom and lounge that foster a super social atmosphere. The vibe is magical and welcoming, enhanced by daily fun activities, a sauna, and a DIY kitchen. Guests gather easily in spaces filled with unique decor and lively energy.

Monday night free vegetarian curry stands out as a highlight. The breakfast offers juice and a wider range of food options than typical hostels. The dining room features Art Nouveau stained glass windows that brighten the space.

Offers a cheap stay option that suits singles, couples, friends, and business travelers. Focuses on a cozy, community-oriented atmosphere rather than luxury.

People are saying

"The free breakfast here is generous and filling."

"The location is great, with many food and drink options nearby."

"This cheap hostel's location is perfect for exploring."

Good to know

1

The location is unbeatable, right in the heart of the city with easy access to public transport.

2

Parking in San Francisco is tough; the hostel does not have its own parking but recommends local places.

3

Breakfast is included in the reservation.

09
Vietnam House image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Old-school setting hosts groups of older men playing dominoes and women chatting, creating an authentic Vietnamese vibe. Loud sports broadcasts and cigarette smoke fill the air, adding to the atmosphere. Food prices stay very affordable, attracting mostly Vietnamese clientele in a modest neighborhood.

Food comes freshly made to order with an authentic Vietnamese atmosphere. Dishes are inexpensive and generally fantastic, though some items can be stale.

Offers amazing food at a really cheap price.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and a really incredible deal."

"I found the Banh Mi's to be very good and affordable."

"The Vietnamese food here is really good and affordable."

Good to know

1

The meal costs around $30 for two people after tax.

2

Bring cash to pay for sandwiches; credit cards are not accepted.

3

Expect to pay about $10 for a full bowl with beef and egg rolls.

10
Halal Burgers & More image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant offers 24/7 service with affordable prices and wheelchair accessibility. The atmosphere is welcoming and well-lit, set apart from busy streets. Downsized seating reflects ongoing remodeling, focusing on quick takeout rather than dine-in.

Food features delicious chicken sandwiches and thick, perfectly seasoned fries. Meals come at very affordable prices with consistently great taste and good service.

Food prices stay low with large portions like four big pieces of fish and shrimp plus fries. Hot sauce adds flavor without extra cost.

People are saying

"The food here is great and the service is always polite."

"I found the burgers here to be one of the best."

"I found the food to be really cheap."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24/7, which is convenient for late-night cravings.

2

Prices are very affordable, with meals costing less than $10.

3

The establishment honors EBT Food cards for eligible purchases.

11
Costco Food Court image 1

Food court features bar tables only and often has long lines with crowded conditions. Food is very cheap and fast, with standout items like large pizza slices and juicy hot dogs. Atmosphere is practical and busy, suited for quick meals rather than leisurely dining.

Food offers good prices and consistent taste with quick service. The food court serves large portions and feels like a shared cultural experience despite often being crowded.

Food costs stay very cheap here, making it easy to eat on a budget. Tables and the condiment station often need cleaning, which affects the overall experience.

People are saying

"The food here is pure joy and always tastes good."

"This pizza is pure joy and every visit a mini-celebration."

"I found the food here to be cheap and yummy."

Good to know

1

Lunch at Costco Food Court costs only $1.50 for a hot dog with a drink.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Seating can be limited, especially during busy times.

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