The Absolute Best Cheap Eats in Austin [Updated 2024]

As an author who has spent countless hours exploring the culinary scene of Austin, I am here to share my favorite hidden gems for budget-friendly dining. From food trucks to hole-in-the-wall restaurants, this article will take you on a lighthearted journey through the tastiest and most affordable dishes the city has to offer.

After reviewing a whopping eight establishments, I have handpicked the crème de la crème of cheap eats in Austin. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a delicious adventure!

Juan in a Million

Highlights
Cheap breakfast
Good salsa
Friendly staff
Quick service
Delicious pastries

Let me start by saying that this place is a breakfast lover's dream come true! Juan in a Million is a hidden gem when it comes to cheap eats in Austin.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly staff and seated promptly. The menu offered a variety of options, but I couldn't resist trying their famous breakfast dishes. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint!

One highlight at Juan in a Million is their cheap breakfast options. For just a few bucks, you can indulge in their hearty portions and leave feeling satisfied. The huevos rancheros were bursting with flavor, and the chorizo and egg tacos were a delight to the taste buds.

What really set this place apart was their good salsa. It was the perfect blend of spicy and tangy, adding an extra kick to every bite. I couldn't resist dipping my chips into the salsa over and over again.

Another thing worth mentioning is their quick service. Despite being a popular spot, the staff made sure to bring out our food promptly. In no time, our plates were filled with deliciousness.

Before ending my meal, I couldn't resist trying one of their delicious pastries. The flakiness of the croissant and the gooey sweetness of the cinnamon roll were the perfect ending to my breakfast feast.

Overall, Juan in a Million exceeded my expectations as one of the best cheap eats in Austin. With its budget-friendly prices, flavorful food, friendly staff, and quick service, this place is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tasty and affordable meal in Austin.

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Tamale House East

Highlights
Amazing tamales
Flavorful and moist
Vegetarian friendly options
Smoky and cheesy migas
Horchata cold brew

Walking into Tamale House East, the aroma of freshly cooked tamales hit my senses, immediately making my mouth water. I couldn't wait to dig in and find out if the tamales lived up to their reputation. And oh boy, they certainly did.

The tamales at Tamale House East are nothing short of amazing. Bursting with flavor and perfectly moist, each bite was a delightful explosion of deliciousness. I particularly enjoyed their vegetarian options, which were just as flavorful as their meat-filled counterparts.

But the tasty surprises didn't stop there. I also ordered their smoky and cheesy migas, which were a breakfast revelation. The combination of eggs, crispy tortillas, and gooey cheese was absolutely heavenly. It was the kind of dish that makes you want to savor every bite while plotting your return for the following morning.

To wash down all that deliciousness, I decided to try their horchata cold brew. The rich and creamy horchata perfectly balanced the strong kick of caffeine in the cold brew. It was another pleasant surprise that I didn't anticipate but greatly appreciated.

Tamale House East is a hidden gem in Austin, and a must-visit for anyone in search of the best cheap eats. With their amazing tamales, flavorful migas, and unique horchata cold brew, this place is a true culinary delight. So grab a seat, order a feast, and indulge in the tasty wonders this establishment has to offer.

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Dirty Martin's Place

Highlights
Long-standing history
Excellent food
Great customer service
Old-fashioned atmosphere

Let's start with the long-standing history of Dirty Martin's Place. This beloved Austin institution has been serving up delicious and affordable eats for over 90 years, and it's safe to say they've perfected their craft.

Now, onto the food. Wow. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had discovered something special. The burgers at Dirty Martin's Place are simply out of this world. Juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection, each bite is a symphony of flavors that leaves you wanting more. And the best part? The prices are incredibly budget-friendly, making it the perfect spot for those seeking cheap eats in the city.

Customer service at Dirty Martin's Place is top-notch. The friendly and attentive staff made me feel right at home from the moment I walked through the door. They were knowledgeable about the menu, ready to answer any questions, and even offered suggestions for customizing my burger to suit my taste.

The old-fashioned atmosphere at Dirty Martin's Place adds to the overall experience. It's like stepping back in time, with its retro decor and classic diner vibes. I loved the nostalgic feel, and it only added to the charm and authenticity of the place.

If you're looking for a cheap eat that doesn't compromise on taste or quality, Dirty Martin's Place is the place to go. With its long-standing history, excellent food, great customer service, and old-fashioned atmosphere, this hidden gem in Austin is a must-visit for burger lovers on a budget.

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El Primo

Highlights
Huge breakfast tacos
Warm, delicious, filling
Variety of tacos, tortas, burritos
Great service

Upon entering El Primo, I immediately noticed the delightful aroma that filled the air. The menu boasted a variety of options, but the huge breakfast tacos were calling my name. I couldn't resist ordering one stuffed with fluffy eggs, savory bacon, and melted cheese.

As I took my first bite, I was overwhelmed by the warm, delicious flavors that danced on my tongue. The combination of perfectly seasoned ingredients left me longing for more. The portion size was generous, and it was clear that El Primo knew how to fill a hungry customer.

If breakfast tacos aren't your thing, fear not! El Primo offers a wide selection of tacos, tortas, and burritos to satisfy any craving. No matter what you choose, you won't be disappointed.

I was also pleased to find that the service at El Primo was exceptional. The staff was friendly, attentive, and genuinely seemed to care about making my experience enjoyable.

In conclusion, El Primo is a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for cheap eats in Austin. The huge breakfast tacos are a delicious way to start your day, and the variety of options ensures that there's something for everyone. With its warm, delicious food and great service, El Primo truly lives up to its name as a primo destination for affordable and satisfying meals.

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Delray Cafe

Highlights
Buffalo wings
Real coney
Sliders
Late night

Delray Cafe is truly a hidden gem when it comes to cheap eats in Austin. Situated within an unassuming strip mall, this cozy little spot is oozing with character. As I stepped inside, the aroma of mouthwatering buffalo wings immediately greeted me, and I knew I was in for a treat.

Let's start with the wings. Oh boy, are they good! Delray Cafe knows how to do them justice. They're crispy, flavorful, and the sauce has just the right amount of tanginess to keep you coming back for more. Trust me, you won't be able to resist licking your fingers!

Next up on the menu is their real coney. Made with a delicious beef chili and topped with onions and mustard, this hot dog is pure perfection. The flavors blend together beautifully, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. It's like a little taste of Detroit right here in Austin.

If sliders are more your style, Delray Cafe has got you covered. Their sliders are not only affordable, but they come in a variety of flavors, from classic cheeseburger to tangy BBQ chicken. They're small enough to not break the bank, but substantial enough to satisfy your hunger.

What sets Delray Cafe apart from other cheap eats spots is their late-night availability. They understand that sometimes you just need a tasty meal after a night on the town. Whether it's a late night snack or an early morning craving, Delray Cafe is there for you.

In conclusion, if you're looking for cheap eats that don't skimp on taste, head over to Delray Cafe in Austin. From their mouthwatering buffalo wings to their delicious coney dogs and sliders, this place is a winner. You'll leave with a happy stomach and a happy wallet.

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Fareground Austin

Highlights
Different food options
Cool vibe
Outdoor and indoor tables
Rotating restaurants
Great place to hang out

Walking into Fareground Austin, I was immediately struck by the vibrant and cool vibe that permeates the place. The spacious indoor area is adorned with stylish decor, while the outdoor seating provides a perfect spot to enjoy the warm Austin weather.

What sets Fareground Austin apart from other cheap eats spots is its concept of rotating restaurants. As I perused the different food options, I was excited to see a variety of cuisines represented. From delicious tacos to mouthwatering burgers, Fareground has something for everyone's taste buds.

One of the highlights of my visit was the opportunity to sample different dishes from multiple vendors, all conveniently under one roof. This made it easy to try a little bit of everything without breaking the bank. The quality of the food was surprisingly impressive for the affordable prices.

Not only is Fareground Austin a fantastic place to grab a quick, cheap bite, but it's also a great place to hang out with friends or coworkers. Whether you're in the mood for a casual lunch or a lively happy hour, Fareground offers a welcoming atmosphere that encourages connection and relaxation.

Overall, Fareground Austin exceeded my expectations in terms of its affordable prices, delicious food options, and inviting ambiance. It's truly a gem in Austin's cheap eats scene. So, if you're looking for a place that offers a diverse range of cuisines, a trendy environment, and a budget-friendly bill, put Fareground Austin at the top of your list.

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Koriente

Highlights
Unique and great tasting dishes
Fresh and healthy options
Great option for a quick lunch

As soon as I walked into Koriente, I immediately knew this was going to be a unique dining experience. The menu is bursting with unique and great tasting dishes that are both satisfying and wallet-friendly. From the moment I placed my order, I knew I was in for a treat.

One of the standout features of Koriente is their commitment to using fresh ingredients. It's refreshing to find a place that offers fresh and healthy options without breaking the bank. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and I could tell that the ingredients were of the highest quality.

If you're in Austin and looking for a no-fuss, low-cost lunch option, Koriente is the place to go. They specialize in quick and efficient service, making it a great option for a quick lunch during a busy workday. The atmosphere is casual yet inviting, making it a perfect spot to grab a bite to eat with friends or colleagues.

Overall, my experience at Koriente was nothing short of fantastic. The unique and delicious dishes, fresh ingredients, and quick service make it a standout choice for anyone searching for the best cheap eats in Austin. Whether you're a local or just passing through, don't miss out on this hidden gem.

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Velvet Taco

Highlights
Great variety of tacos
Cool energetic vibe
Recommended dishes
Vegetarian options
Delicious flavors

Upon entering Velvet Taco, I immediately felt the cool, energetic vibe that permeates the place. The lively atmosphere is complemented by the mouthwatering smell of freshly made tacos. With a wide variety of tacos to choose from, I knew I was in for a treat.

What struck me the most was the sheer creativity of the taco combinations. From the classic Chicken Tikka Masala taco to the indulgent Buffalo Chicken taco, Velvet Taco offers an impressive selection that caters to all taste buds. What's more, their commitment to accommodating vegetarians was commendable. The Veg Out taco, packed with delightful roasted corn, poblano peppers, and queso fresco, was an absolute winner.

As a reviewer who aims to inform readers about the best cheap eats in Austin, I must say that Velvet Taco truly delivers on affordability without sacrificing flavor. With each bite, I savored the explosion of flavors expertly combined in every taco. Whether it was the tender and juicy pork in the Spicy Tikka Chicken or the refreshing burst of cilantro and lime in the Slow-Roasted Angus Beef, Velvet Taco exceeded my expectations.

Overall, my experience at Velvet Taco was nothing short of delightful. The great variety of tacos, the cool energetic vibe, and the delicious flavors make it an excellent option for those seeking an affordable food experience in Austin. Trust me when I say that Velvet Taco is more than deserving of a spot on the list of the best cheap eats in Austin.

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