New York City, a mosaic of vibrant cultures and varied cuisines, is a gastronomic wonderland where delectable meals can often be found at a reasonable price. Lunch is no exception, as many local eateries offer enticing lunch specials that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re in the reflection of skyscrapers, nestled in a quaint cobblestone street, or immersed in a bustling street market, there’s a myriad of flavorful options available across the city. Below are ten budget-friendly lunch specials in different neighborhoods, complete with addresses, contact information, and websites to ensure you can easily visit these hidden gems.
1. Mamouns Falafel
Address: 119 Macdougal St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 674-7500
Website: mamouns.com
Mamouns Falafel is a legendary spot in Greenwich Village that has been serving its famous falafel sandwiches since 1971. For a mere $5, you can indulge in a filling falafel sandwich, made fresh with seasoned chickpeas and herbs. Accompanied by tahini sauce and pickles, it’s a flavor-packed meal that showcases the rich culinary tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine.
2. Xi’an Famous Foods
Address: 267 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 420-2500
Website: xianfoods.com
Nestled in the heart of the West Village, Xi’an Famous Foods tantalizes taste buds with its hand-pulled noodles. The “Spicy Lamb Noodle Soup” is an impeccable choice, offered for $12.50. Amidst a fragrant blend of spices and fresh ingredients, the dish reflects the robust flavors of Northwestern Chinese cuisine. Prepare to be captivated by this culinary odyssey!
3. Vanessa’s Dumpling House
Address: 118 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 219-0900
Website: vanessasdumplings.com
In the bustling Lower East Side, Vanessa’s Dumpling House beckons with its scrumptious, affordability-inclined dumplings. The steamed or fried dumpling special, pricing at $1 for each dumpling, makes for an excellent midday indulgence. Choose from a range of fillings, including pork and chive or vegetarian options, as you experience the vibrancy of this community’s culinary scene.
4. The Halal Guys
Address: 720 6th Ave, New York, NY 10010
Contact: (212) 780-1966
Website: halalguys.com
Originating as a food cart, The Halal Guys have elevated street food to a legendary status. Located near 6th Avenue, their lunch special, featuring chicken or beef over rice for about $8, is a must-try. Generously accompanied by their signature white sauce and spicy red sauce, this meal echoes the intersections of culture and flavor that characterize New York City.
5. Empanada Mama
Address: 763 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 459-1200
Website: empanadamama.com
In the vibrant Hell’s Kitchen, Empanada Mama offers Latin American flair with its affordable lunch special—two empanadas and a drink for approximately $10. With a myriad of fillings ranging from traditional beef and chicken to innovative vegetarian options, these handmade delights represent the colorful and rich flavors of Latin cuisine.
6. Joe’s Pizza
Address: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 255-3946
Website: joespizza.com
Famous for its quintessential New York-style pizza, Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village has been serving hungry patrons since 1975. A classic slice costs only $3.00. With its crisp, thin crust and generous layers of cheese, it’s a quintessential New York experience bound to evoke nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.
7. Arte Café
Address: 202 W 58th St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 586-1122
Website: artecafeny.com
Arte Café, located near Central Park, exudes a charming ambiance while offering a delightful lunch special—sumptuous pasta dishes starting at just $10. The artisanal pasta, prepared with love and flair, brings the heart of Italian cuisine directly to you. Pair it with a refreshing glass of wine for an affordable taste of culinary heaven.
8. The Meatball Shop
Address: 64 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (646) 661-9223
Website: themeatballshop.com
A haven for meatball enthusiasts, The Meatball Shop boasts a delectable lunch special where you can enjoy a meatball slider for only $6. Choose your meatball, sauce, and toppings, and savor the personalized creation that encapsulates comfort food at its finest. This succinctly embodies the cozy, communal spirit of dining in New York.
9. Taïm
Address: 222 Waverly Pl, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 691-0555
Website: taimfalafel.com
Fans of Middle Eastern cuisine will appreciate Taïm, where you can enjoy a sumptuous falafel sandwich for around $10. Nestled among the streets of West Village, the falafel is made from scratch daily and served with a variety of house-made salads that capture the vibrancy of seasonal ingredients.
10. Sushi on Jones
Address: 332 Jones St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (646) 478-0195
Website: sushionjones.com
For sushi lovers, Sushi on Jones offers a fantastic lunch special—a bento box starting at an astonishing $10, featuring a combination of sushi rolls, sashimi, and sides. This unassuming establishment delivers quality and flavor, showcasing the charm and international influences that the city represents.
The eclectic dining scene of New York is both diverse and dynamic, where cheap lunch specials serve as a gateway to explore the city’s culinary depth without straining your wallet. Each neighborhood boasts its flavor, history, and culture intertwined with the culinary delights at hand. So whether you’re a resident or a visitor, take the time to unearth these scrumptious gems and savor the city one lunch at a time. With the rich flavors and affordable prices, you might just find that New York’s heart beats strongest around mealtime.
