Free and Cheap Restaurants

Who says you have to spend 50 bucks on a steak with no sides? 30 extra if you want cream of spinach... FORGET IT! Unless you're on a hot date, you're more than likely a young adult living pay check to pay check (especially in this city). Oatmeal, hummus, or peanut butter are your survival foods for the week. They're cheap and filll you up, right? But sometimes when you can't resist a night out with friends. So, what is one to do?

That is why I am going to tell you not only my favorite but some of the truly cheapest restaurants in the city that never sleeps. Whether you're visiting or live here, this is your guide to a free and cheap New York City.

Here is a list of the cheapest I've found -- and all around delicious. In no particular order. For the times when 99 cent pizza and bagels get old.

If you like giant margaritas, this is the place to be. There are four locations in the city, but I've only been to the location on Midtown East. Called Blockheads http://www.blockheads.com
Massive burritos, tacos and margaritas for a great price. So large in fact, I always share with my friends. For 10 dollars you can have an appetizer a large frozen Margarita and a grilled chicken wrap.


The next lounge is amazing. Besides being mentioned on the cooking channel this past weekend, it is truly a fun place to watch a game, or catch up with friends. Crocodile Lounge in Gramercy http://www.yelp.com/biz/crocodile-lounge-new-york gives you an ENTIRE PIZZA if you purchase a drink. So, for a 3 dollar bud light, you can land an entire pizza. Great deal if I've ever seen one.








If you're trying to be healthier or eat veggies only-- the next place is perfect for you. Located in the upper west side, The Hummus Place is absolutely amazing.But, don't judge a book by its cover. Because while the outside of the restaurant may be deceiving, it's truly the best hummus I've ever had. And for an extremely cheap price. For 6 bucks I had enough food for three meals. Check out their website for prices and selections http://www.hummusplace.com/.


You can take the girl out of the south, but you can't take the south out of the girl... that is why I LOVE this next restaurant. Jackson Hole in Murray hill has the perfect comfort foods. If you're craving barbecue, or want to splurge on a delicious burger this is the place to go. There are multiple locations throughout the city. With homemade lemonade for a dollar, and a classic burger for 6, this place will leave you feeling happy and full. Great place to bring your southern visitors. ttp://jacksonholemurrayhill.com/food-delivery-TW/jackson-hole--third-ave-new-york-city.1362.r?QueryStringValue=PEYA45Gmyt2Es1Gx3G5YwQ







If you've ever studied abroad, there are certain things you fall in love with and adapt to in that country. One, being the food. The good thing is , New York City has nearly every culture and food you can imagine. Therefore, you can imagine my excitement when I discovered this next restaurant, Pio Pio. There are multiple locations not only in Manhattan, but in New York. Since my time abroad I tried to explain to my boyfriend how delicious Peruvian food is. Thankfully, He finally got a chance to try it while he visited the city. For 14 bucks, you can get an ENTIRE roasted chicken, chiviche appetizers, and Peruvian sides (advocado salad, tomatoes, and plantanos). Come hungry, and leave with leftovers because just like the Peruvian culture you will have more food than you'll know what to do with. It is absolutely wonderful, and a great way to try new foods. Bring your friends here. Check out their locations and menu options near you .. and if you're wanting to party -- don't forget to order a pisco sour :) But trust me, ONE is all you need! http://piopio.com/#/pio-pio-peruvian-restaurant-new-york-city







Brunch is my favorite meal. And if you live in Manhattan you understand that brunch is a way of life. Something I truly never did until I lived here. Not only do the mimosas help you recover from the night before, but it's a great way to catch up with friends and relax. Sometimes, brunch places can be extremely pricey. And most places that include alcohol have a set price. But Nice Matin a french restaurant in the Upper West side is fabulous. Not only is it located in a beautiful area of Manhattan -- Next to river side park, but it is truly the best brunch I've had in the city. Average brunch, cost around 12 dollars. Cheaper than most, and it is a great place to bring your family or visitors. There is ALWAYS a wait so come early and make sure your entire party is there. Check out their menu options here. http://www.nicematinnyc.com/


And if you're a sushi lover . There are TONS of cheap places in the city. But one of my personal favorites is Aji. located in Murray hill (midtown Manhattan). For 9 bucks you can get a lunch box. This includes soup, salad, chicken terriaki and a roll of your choice. Incredible deal and this will last you two or three meals.




These are a few of the resteraunts that are "must visits". I'll have a list of more resteraunts and cheap bars coming your way, very soon!