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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Seattle

Cheap food spots

You want to eat well without paying a premium for the privilege.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Original Deli image 1
Original Deli image 2
Original Deli image 3
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Restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall restaurant tucked away in an alley offers a cozy, home-style atmosphere with friendly, welcoming vibes. Indoor seating includes comfortable tables and a big couch, complemented by plants and flowers that add charm. The space feels like a calm oasis with a grandma-core deli style.

Food comes fresh and tasty with generous portions and reasonable prices. Service is fast and the overall quality is consistently excellent.

Food comes with cheap prices and large portions. The menu is small but offers tasty options.

People are saying

"The Bulgogi bowl was seriously good and so filling."

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

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

Good to know

1

The deli is accessible from the alley parallel to 4th Street.

2

Breakfast costs under $10, while lunch costs under $15.

3

The restaurant is located half a block east of the Symphony light rail station.

02
Qiao Lin Hotpot - Seattle image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Hot pot restaurant offers beautiful decor with large booths and a well-ventilated stovetop that keeps heat away. Atmosphere is cozy but lively, with some noise and bright screens adding energy. A huge self-serve sauce bar and free ice cream enhance the dining experience.

Food features excellent quality and amazing service consistently. Dining offers a fantastic experience with very good Chinese dishes.

Prices stay cheap compared to other hot pot spots. The self-service mung bean soup tastes good and feels authentic, not like a cheap imitation.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the hot pot, is delicious and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and tastes really fresh."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a 31% discount on dishes from 2-4 pm and after 8:30 pm daily.

2

Late-night lounge opens on weekends with new fusion small plates and desserts.

3

Happy hour starts at 9:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

03
UmmaDak image 1
Restaurant

Korean fried chicken draws a crowd with crispy batter and tender meat in a space featuring standing tables only and walls decorated with plants and fun posters. The atmosphere stays chill and welcoming despite a quick stop-and-go pace, accompanied by fun music that adds to the vibe.

Food offers great flavor with a spicy kick that appeals especially to those craving authentic Korean tastes. Prices stay relatively cheap while orders are ready promptly.

Food costs stay low with cheap chicken that tastes simple and good. Sauce has a cheap flavor with a hint of peanut butter.

People are saying

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

"I found the Korean fried chicken here to be the best."

"I found the chicken to be cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is no seating area inside, making it primarily a takeout spot.

2

Expect standing room only for dining in.

3

The portion sizes are generous and well worth the price.

04
Dim Sum King image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small Chinese restaurant with few tiny tables and counter service offers a no-frills atmosphere that feels authentic and reminiscent of Hong Kong. The space is humble and simple, with a wholesome aesthetic untouched by modern trends. It fills up during lunch with a lively, sometimes loud energy.

Dishes like meaty siu mai, bouncy har gao, and excellent turnip cake showcase authentic Cantonese flavors with fresh ingredients. The food balances textures and flavors well, offering solid value for the price.

Prices stay consistently cheap across the menu. Food comes out fast and offers economical options like chowmein that work well for later meals.

People are saying

"I'd move to Seattle just for this dim sum."

"The shrimp dumplings and egg tarts were incredible."

"The food here is really good and unique."

Good to know

1

The place is takeout only with limited seating available.

2

Expect long wait times during lunch hours due to high demand.

3

Parking is only available on the street and may require payment.

05
Sushi%AYCE/All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious sushi restaurant with tablet ordering and robot servers creates a modern dining experience. Atmosphere is cozy with great music and ample seating including big tables and comfortable booths. Fresh, high-quality sushi and a notable sake selection define the food offerings.

Food features fresh salmon and a variety of options with high-quality ingredients. Dishes arrive timely and satisfy sushi cravings at a reasonable price.

All-you-can-eat sushi offers a cheap option with plenty of food. Meals provide quality food at low prices.

People are saying

"The sushi here is really good and the fish is so fresh."

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

"The sushi buffet was cheap for how much I got."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The all-you-can-eat menu limits each table to 15 items per order.

3

Expect a 15-minute wait between orders for the all-you-can-eat menu.

06
Saigon Deli image 1

Small, fast-paced counter-service deli with a Vietnamese menu known for affordable prices and authentic sandwiches. Busy atmosphere with efficient order handling and a preference for cash payments. Popular for Banh Mi sandwiches and a variety of food options despite limited space.

Authentic Vietnamese food offers a wide selection including deli, sweets, snacks, and lunch items. Food cooks quickly and fills the air with a great aroma, all at affordable prices.

Food costs stay low here, making it a solid choice for affordable takeout. Prices beat typical fast food, offering good value for budget-conscious meals.

People are saying

"I found the banh mi here to be the best."

"It's a smaller place with plenty of parking available."

"The banh mi here is great, packed full of meat and vegetables."

Good to know

1

Saigon Deli accepts only cash payments; credit cards incur a $0.75 fee.

2

Lunch options are available for under $10, with sandwiches around $6.

3

Parking is available in a small lot next to the deli.

07
Dough Zone Dumpling House Harbor Steps image 1

Open layout with bright lighting creates a vibrant atmosphere that tends to be noisy. Space feels clean and comfortable, attracting those looking for a lively dining experience. Noise level and open design distinguish it from quieter, more intimate spots.

Food offers authentic flavors that stand out from similar spots. Dishes arrive hot and fresh, with a style not commonly found elsewhere.

Food comes at a super cheap price and fills you up well. Meals are both delicious and affordable.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful with a great variety."

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

"The food here is super cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, but reservations are not required.

2

The restaurant is very accommodating for large groups, making it a good choice for gatherings.

3

The facility is clean and well-maintained, providing a pleasant dining environment.

08
Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle image 1

Hostel offers private pod-style bathrooms and curtained bunk beds with reading lights and fans. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful despite nearby karaoke, with a cozy kitchen and lounge for socializing. Location sits across from Pike Place Market, providing easy access to transit and city sights.

Fridges in the kitchen provide food storage for guests. Location near Pikes Place and the waterfront offers easy access to local dining options.

Offers very cheap rates and stays in a central city area. Includes extras like ice cream nights, tours, and pub crawls for low cost.

People are saying

"The location is superb, right next to Pike's Place Market."

"It's so cheap, and the location is amazing, right across Pike Market."

"The food here is really good."

Good to know

1

The hostel is located right across the street from Pike Place Market.

2

Expect to carry your luggage up substantial stairs as there is no elevator.

3

The hostel offers free activities every night, including dinners and drinks.

09
H Mart Downtown Seattle image 1
Asian grocery store

Small basement grocery store offers narrow aisles and a cozy, well-lit interior filled with Korean flavors and aromas. Seating areas with microwaves allow eating ready-made meals on-site. The store provides a wide variety of Asian foods and snacks not commonly found in regular supermarkets.

Fresh produce and a wide selection of Asian foods stand out here. The hot food section offers great value with Korean-style cooked dishes and tasty prepared items.

Aisles stay well stocked with cheap produce and large portions. Prices lean toward affordable but not extremely low.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a unique variety of Asian products and ready-to-eat meals."

"I love the unique variety of Japanese food, from sushi to snacks."

"I found the Asian food here to be authentic and affordable."

Good to know

1

Food safety concerns arise from expired products on the shelves.

2

Prepared meals are affordable and ideal for a quick lunch.

3

The store offers a wide selection of Asian foods and snacks.

10
Lam's Seafood Asian Market image 1
Asian grocery store

Small, cozy Asian grocery store offers an extensive seafood selection including live tilapia and crabs. Atmosphere feels authentic with a friendly, welcoming vibe and a hot meal section serving Vietnamese dishes. Variety includes specialty Vietnamese products not found elsewhere.

Fresh seafood and bulk Asian groceries support authentic Chinese cooking. The market offers a wide variety of imported foods, including exotic snacks and Vietnamese dishes, plus a good selection of cooked and prepared foods to go.

Vegetables and meat come at very cheap prices here. Seafood stays fresh while still being affordable, but fruits do not match the low cost of other markets.

People are saying

"I found great prices on Asian groceries and fresh seafood here."

"I found a huge variety of Asian food and imported groceries here."

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

Good to know

1

The market sells a variety of Vietnamese specialty products not found elsewhere.

2

Parking can be difficult; street parking may be necessary.

3

The market accepts food stamps for purchases.

11
Gyro Saj image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small, humble space with modern, no-frills decor and a layout like a fast food shop. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, with a casual, welcoming vibe. Chef prepares dishes in front, offering halal Mediterranean staples and late-night options.

Food comes out fresh and tasty with fast service. Portions are amazing and filling while prices stay cheap for the quality.

Prices vary, but many find the food cheap and filling. Greek fries often come up as a quick, affordable option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be top of the line."

"Their Mediterranean food, especially the shawarma, was amazing."

"The food here is amazing and very filling."

Good to know

1

Gyro Saj is open late and on weekends for hot food.

2

You can choose either white or wheat pita for non-shawarma sandwiches.

3

Shawarma sandwiches come only with tortilla, not pita bread.

12
Uwajimaya Seattle image 1
Asian grocery store

Asian grocery store combines spacious layout with cozy, well-designed interior that feels like a trip to Asia. Food court and bookstore offer diverse cultural experiences alongside shopping. Atmosphere stays clean, friendly, and organized, making items easy to find even when busy.

International quality grocery offers a great selection of Asian ethnic food items and housewares. Food court features varied choices like poke, musubi, and a juicy BBQ duck with crispy skin from Waji's.

Many products match prices at major retailers, offering cheap options that build a tasty and full meal. Sashimi tastes fresh but is not cheap, unlike other items.

People are saying

"I loved the food court's great options and prepared meals."

"I found it to be the best Asian grocery store in the city."

"I found many cheap options for a really tasty and full meal."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated with a minimum purchase of $20 at the store.

2

There are two hours of free parking if you spend over $30.

3

The market stops selling hot deli food after 6pm, so get your hot food early.

13
Hau Hau Market image 1
Chinese supermarket

Narrow lanes guide shoppers through a busy market with an easy flow and a large outdoor produce section. Fresh greens, meats, and snacks fill shelves at wholesale prices, often much lower than nearby stores. The market stands out for its wide variety of Asian ingredients and budget-friendly options.

Food quality stands out with a wide variety of options available. The food is generally nice and plentiful, though some concerns about contamination arise.

Prices stay consistently low across many items. The market offers a budget-friendly shopping experience.

People are saying

"I found the grocery prices here to be the cheapest."

"Parking available here can be challenging and limited."

"I found some cheap Asian treats here."

Good to know

1

Hau Hau Market offers a great selection of fresh produce at low prices.

2

Parking at Hau Hau Market can be challenging due to limited space.

3

The market accepts American Express credit cards for purchases.

14
Half Shell image 1
Restaurant

Nautical-themed decor blends maritime charm with urban sophistication in a chic, relaxing setting. Spacious outdoor seating offers beautiful waterfront views that complement a casual yet refined vibe. Cocktails like Italian old fashion and fresh oysters enhance the experience in a place suited for unwinding and conversation.

Food features freshness and high quality with a limited menu. Dishes focus on oysters and deliver a delicious experience.

People are saying

"You have to try the $2 oysters during Happy Hour; they're hard to beat."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The happy hour oysters are super plump and cheap."

Good to know

1

During happy hour, oysters cost $2 each from 3 pm to 6 pm on Saturdays.

2

Expect a wait even with a reservation, especially during peak hours.

3

The outdoor seating area may have strong seafood smells.

15
Mee Sum Pastry image 1
Chinese bakery

Small window and street-side setup create an authentic, bustling vibe with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Dim sum fans find best bao, fast service, and consistent quality despite no seating and a cash-only policy with a $10 minimum. Pastries like curry beef bun and pork hombow stand out as favorites.

Beef curry buns and BBQ pork buns stand out as signature items. Pot stickers also feature prominently. The food is consistently fresh and highly praised, especially at the University Place location.

Barbecue hom baos and shumai cost less than a dollar each and fill you up. Buns come fast and cheap, shaped like handheld flavor bombs. Sesame balls offer great quality at a fair price. Cash is best due to a $10 minimum on card payments.

People are saying

"The BBQ pork buns have a caramelized crust and tender meat."

"The food here, especially the buns, is so savory and delicious."

"The buns are cheap, fast, and taste like little handheld flavor bombs."

Good to know

1

The place only accepts cash payments.

2

There is a $10 minimum for card payments.

3

There is no seating available at Mee Sum Pastry.

16
Kau Kau BBQ Restaurant image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Chinatown back alley setting creates a cozy, old-school vibe with ample family-style seating and authentic Cantonese atmosphere. The place buzzes with locals enjoying classic Chinese BBQ in a space that feels warm and inviting despite its dated appearance.

Delicious Chinese food stands out with in-house plum sauce that enhances every dish. The flavors are consistently amazing and outstanding.

Barbecue and lunch combos come with large portions at low prices. Lunch deals cost around $10.20, making meals affordable and filling.

People are saying

"The BBQ pork here is so juicy and delicious."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I found the BBQ rice combo to be cheap and good."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 1pm to 3pm for $10, including soup and fried rice.

2

Reservations can be made on the same day for groups.

3

Expect a variety of lunch options for under $10.

17
Jack's Fish Spot image 1
Seafood restaurant

Market kiosk with cramped seating and close-up views of fish butchery creates an authentic seafood vibe. Atmosphere carries a Seattle grunge feel with lively market noise and tight quarters. Fresh seafood is central, though seating is limited and space is small.

Food features incredibly fresh ingredients with perfect texture and great value. The taste is consistently delicious and service complements the quality well.

Fish tacos come at cheap prices here, making it a reliable spot for affordable meals downtown. The food stays delicious while keeping costs relatively low.

People are saying

"This seafood chowder is creamy, rich, and comforting."

"This clam chowder food is the best Iโ€™ve had in my life."

"I found the food here to be cheap and reliably tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 10 AM.

2

Prices are generally affordable compared to other spots in Pike Place.

3

Finding seating can be challenging during busy hours.

18
Shorty's image 1

Pinball machines fill the space, with glass top pinball tables and vintage arcade games creating a bizarre clown-themed atmosphere. The vibe is authentic and vibrant, reflecting a local dive bar with a strong gaming focus. Beers and hot dogs complement the lively, colorful setting.

Cheap food and drinks come with hotdogs and a pulled pork sandwich that stand out. The menu offers delicious and filling bar food with many late-night options.

Cheap drinks and affordable beers make this spot stand out. They also serve ready-to-go hot dogs at low prices.

People are saying

"You can play tons of pinball machines here."

"The American Food here has a fun, classic Coney Island vibe."

"You can play arcade games and pinball machines here."

Good to know

1

The pinball machines cost 50 cents, which is probably the cheapest in the city.

2

They recently raised the price to $.75 for pinball games.

3

Expect some machines to be out of order or need a nudge to get unstuck.

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