Phoenix's Best Cheap Eats [Updated 2024]

After reviewing a whopping 15 affordable dining establishments in Phoenix, I am excited to share my expertise in this ultimate guide to the city's top cheap eats. Whether you're a local on a tight budget or a visitor looking for delicious yet affordable meals, this article is tailored just for you.

Having lived in Phoenix all my life, I have scoured the city to uncover hidden gems that serve up mouthwatering dishes without breaking the bank. From food trucks to hole-in-the-wall joints, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with flavors that won't empty your wallet.

Let's dive in!

The Beach House

Highlights
Best fish and shrimp tacos
Amazing Desert Pear lemonade slush
Great price
Simple and flavorful meals
Colorful decor

Let me just start by saying that The Beach House is a hidden gem when it comes to finding cheap eats in Phoenix. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a vibrant and colorful decor that instantly transported me to a tropical beach.

But let's get to the important part - the food. The Beach House offers some of the best fish and shrimp tacos I've ever had. The fish was perfectly crispy on the outside, yet tender and flaky on the inside. And the shrimp? Oh my, they were succulent and bursting with flavor. Each bite was like a mini vacation for my taste buds.

To wash down my delicious tacos, I decided to try their amazing Desert Pear lemonade slush. It was like sipping on a cool breeze on a hot summer day. The tanginess of the lemonade mixed with the refreshing sweetness of the desert pear was the perfect combination.

What surprised me the most was the great price of the food. I couldn't believe I was enjoying such high-quality tacos and slush for such a reasonable price. The Beach House has truly mastered the art of providing simple yet flavorful meals without breaking the bank.

Overall, I highly recommend visiting The Beach House if you're looking for a cheap eats spot in Phoenix. With their mouthwatering fish and shrimp tacos, amazing Desert Pear lemonade slush, and affordable prices, you'll feel like you're on a beach vacation without ever leaving the city.

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Scottsdale.

Short Leash Hotdogs & Rollover Doughnuts

Highlights
Unique menu range
Indoor and outdoor seating
Community event ambiance
$15 bottle of mimosas Sunday deal
Excellent service

As I walked into Short Leash Hotdogs & Rollover Doughnuts, I knew I was in for a treat. With its vibrant atmosphere and playful decor, it immediately set the stage for an enjoyable dining experience.

One of the highlights of Short Leash is its unique menu range. I was delighted to discover a variety of gourmet hotdog options that I had never seen before. From the spicy jalapeno to the indulgent mac and cheese dog, there was something to satisfy every palate. And let's not forget about the doughnuts. The delectable array of rollover doughnuts offered a sweet ending to my meal.

The establishment offers both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the beautiful Phoenix weather. I opted for the patio, where I could soak up the lively ambiance. Throughout my visit, I couldn't help but notice the community event vibes in the air. From families enjoying their meals to friends gathering for a quick bite, the atmosphere was warm and inviting.

What really amazed me was their Sunday special deal: a $15 bottle of mimosas. It was the perfect way to relax and unwind while indulging in their delicious offerings.

Last but certainly not least, the service at Short Leash was excellent. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They made sure that my dining experience was top-notch and went above and beyond to accommodate any special requests.

If you're looking for an affordable and memorable dining experience, Short Leash Hotdogs & Rollover Doughnuts is the place to be. With its creative menu, community ambiance, and excellent service, it's no wonder it made my list of the best cheap eats in Phoenix.

You might also want to check out the best burger in Phoenix.

Tacos Chiwas

Highlights
Amazing customer service
Fresh Jamaica water
Delicious food
Hand made corn tortillas
Clean establishment

Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Tacos Chiwas is a hidden gem that serves up tantalizingly delicious cheap eats. As soon as I stepped foot into the establishment, I was immediately greeted with amazing customer service. The staff was friendly, warm, and made me feel right at home.

To quench my thirst, I ordered their fresh Jamaica water. The sweet and tangy flavors danced on my taste buds and provided the perfect complement to the meal that awaited me.

Speaking of the meal, I must say that the food at Tacos Chiwas was simply mouthwatering. Every dish was bursting with flavor and made with the freshest ingredients. I especially loved their handmade corn tortillas, which added a delightful texture to each bite.

Not only was the food at Tacos Chiwas delicious, but the cleanliness of the establishment was also impressive. The spotless tables and immaculate kitchen showcased the restaurant's commitment to providing a pleasant dining experience.

Tacos Chiwas truly embodies the spirit of affordable indulgence. With their pocket-friendly prices and scrumptious offerings, it's no wonder this place has gained a reputation among locals as one of the best cheap eats in Phoenix.

Next time you find yourself craving some authentic Mexican cuisine, make sure to give Tacos Chiwas a visit. You won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Scottsdale.

Joe's Diner

Let me tell you, Joe's Diner is a hidden gem among the pricey options in Phoenix. Affordable yet delicious, their menu offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes. From fluffy pancakes to crispy bacon, Joe's Diner has it all. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance make dining here an absolute delight. Don't miss out on this budget-friendly option!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Chandler.

Zookz Sandwiches

Zookz Sandwiches is a hidden gem in the heart of Phoenix for those seeking a delicious and affordable bite. Their innovative circular sandwiches are stuffed with fresh ingredients that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. It's a budget-friendly spot that delivers on taste and creativity.

You might also want to check out the best casual restaurants in Scottsdale.

Taco Chelo

Taco Chelo in Phoenix is a fiesta for the taste buds! Their affordable and flavorful tacos are a true culinary delight. Don't miss their mouth-watering al pastor or the crispy fish tacos. Taco Chelo is a must-visit spot for any budget-savvy foodie in Phoenix!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in Scottsdale.

Los Reyes De La Torta

Los Reyes De La Torta in Phoenix is a hidden gem for cheap eats. Their tortas are to die for - juicy fillings, fresh veggies, and crispy bread. Did I mention affordable? This place is a must-visit, serving up flavorful Mexican sandwiches that won't break the bank.

You might also want to check out the best steak in Scottsdale.

Pita Jungle - Downtown Phoenix

Pita Jungle - Downtown Phoenix in Phoenix: Colorful and eclectic, this gem offers a mouthwatering array of Mediterranean delights at wallet-friendly prices. From the crispy falafel to the sizzling shawarma, every bite is a flavor explosion. With generous portions that won't break the bank, this spot is a must-visit for a cheap and satisfying meal.

You might also want to check out the best steak in Phoenix.

Gadzooks Enchiladas and Soup

Gadzooks Enchiladas and Soup: a fiesta for my taste buds! This lively joint in Phoenix serves up delicious and affordable enchiladas. With endless customizable options and flavorful soups, it's the perfect spot for a cheap and satisfying meal. Plus, the vibrant atmosphere adds a dash of spice to your dining experience!

You might also want to check out the best restaurant in Mesa.

Maria's Frybread & Mexican Food

Maria's Frybread & Mexican Food in Phoenix is a hidden gem. The truly irresistible frybread tacos left me craving for more. With affordable prices and generous portions, this spot is a must for any budget-conscious foodie looking for a fiesta in their mouth!

You might also want to check out the best casual restaurants in Phoenix.

Fry Bread House

The moment I took a bite of their mouthwatering fry bread, I knew I had discovered a hidden treasure. This place is a must-visit for anyone searching for authentic Native American cuisine on a budget. Don't be fooled by its simplicity; Fry Bread House delivers big on flavor and value.

The Original Carolina's Mexican Food

The Original Carolina's Mexican Food in Phoenix is a hidden gem for budget foodies. Their authentic Mexican flavors transported me to the streets of Mexico City. With generous portions and budget-friendly prices, it's a delicious steal that should not be missed on the search for the best cheap eats in Phoenix.

Chino Bandido

Chino Bandido in Phoenix is a delightful blend of Mexican and Chinese cuisine, creating a tantalizing fusion that will make your taste buds dance! With inexpensive yet flavor-packed options like the "Jade Red Chicken" or the "Pollo Diablo," this quirky joint is a must-visit for anyone looking for a cheap and exciting culinary adventure. Don't miss it!

Welcome Diner

Welcome Diner in Phoenix truly lives up to its name, welcoming guests with open arms and appetites. This quirky retro diner offers a playful twist on classic comfort food. From their decadent mac and cheese to their mouthwatering burgers, every bite is a budget-friendly delight. Don't forget to try their famous pie of the day. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Welcome Diner is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and craving seconds.

America's Taco Shop

I must say, America's Taco Shop is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best cheap eats in Phoenix. From the moment you step in, the vibrant atmosphere and the aroma of sizzling tacos will have your taste buds dancing in excitement. The authentic flavors and generous portions make this place a steal. Don't miss their signature El Pastor tacos, bursting with perfectly marinated pork and topped with mouthwatering pineapple salsa. And the best part? You won't have to break the bank to indulge in these flavorful creations. America's Taco Shop is a must-visit for any budget-conscious taco aficionado in Phoenix!