Los Angeles, often hailed as a melting pot of cultures, is a city where foodies can rejoice. Whether you’re craving Mexican tacos, Japanese ramen, or authentic American burgers, LA has it all. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to eat well in this city. On a recent trip to Los Angeles, I made it my mission to discover the best affordable eateries. From food trucks to family-run restaurants, here are some of my favorite spots where you can eat deliciously on a budget.
1. Guisados: Authentic Tacos That Pack a Punch
My first stop in LA was Guisados, a popular taco joint that’s well-known among locals. Located in Echo Park, Guisados is famous for its homemade tortillas and flavorful stews. As soon as I walked in, I could smell the savory goodness coming from the kitchen. The place was small but cozy, with colorful murals on the walls and a friendly atmosphere.
I decided to order their Taco Sampler, which included six mini tacos, each filled with different stews like cochinita pibil, tinga, and mole poblano. At just $8 for the sampler, I felt like I was getting a steal. The cochinita pibil, slow-cooked pork marinated in citrus and spices, was my favorite—it was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Every taco had its unique twist, and I loved that I could try a variety without spending much. Paired with their house-made aguas frescas, this meal was both filling and affordable.
2. Leo’s Tacos Truck: LA’s Best Street Tacos
No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without visiting one of the city’s famous taco trucks. After hearing rave reviews, I headed to Leo’s Tacos Truck in Mid-City. Leo’s is iconic for serving some of the best tacos al pastor (marinated pork tacos) in the city, and the hype is real.
When I arrived, the truck was parked at the corner of La Brea Avenue and Venice Boulevard, and there was already a line of hungry customers. I ordered a few al pastor tacos, which were only $1.50 each! As I waited, I watched the cooks skillfully carve slices of marinated pork from a rotating spit, adding pineapple and onions on top. The aroma was irresistible.
Biting into that first taco was heavenly—the pork was tender, the pineapple added just the right amount of sweetness, and the corn tortillas were perfectly soft. For under $5, I had a satisfying meal that left me craving more. Leo’s is the perfect example of how some of the best food in LA comes from humble street vendors.
3. Dino’s Chicken and Burgers: A No-Frills Classic
If you’re in the mood for some classic American comfort food, Dino’s Chicken and Burgers is the place to go. Located on Pico Boulevard, this no-frills joint has been serving up its famous grilled chicken plates for decades. It’s one of those places that feels frozen in time, with a retro vibe and a simple menu.
I ordered the Half Chicken Plate, which comes with marinated grilled chicken, fries, and coleslaw, all for under $10. The portion size was generous, and the flavors were out of this world. The chicken was marinated in a tangy, slightly spicy sauce that soaked into the fries, creating a deliciously messy meal. I couldn’t believe how much food I got for the price. While it’s not fancy, Dino’s is a staple for those who want a hearty meal without the high price tag.
4. Langer’s Deli: A Taste of Old-School LA
For a true taste of Los Angeles history, you have to visit Langer’s Deli. Located near MacArthur Park, Langer’s has been serving up some of the best pastrami sandwiches in the city since 1947. While Langer’s isn’t the cheapest place on this list, it’s an LA institution, and the quality of the food makes it worth every penny.
I ordered their famous #19 Pastrami Sandwich, which comes with hand-cut pastrami, Swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on rye bread. The sandwich costs around $19, but let me tell you—it’s worth it. The pastrami was melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfectly seasoned, and piled high between slices of soft, chewy rye bread. It was hands down the best pastrami sandwich I’ve ever had. If you’re a fan of deli sandwiches, Langer’s is a must-visit.
5. Sapp Coffee Shop: Thai Comfort Food on a Budget
Tucked away in Thai Town is Sapp Coffee Shop, a small, unassuming restaurant that serves some of the best Thai food in LA. It’s the kind of place where locals go when they’re craving authentic, home-cooked meals, and it’s perfect if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
I ordered their famous Boat Noodles, a rich, flavorful beef broth filled with slices of tender beef, tripe, liver, and noodles. For only $8, the portion was generous, and the broth was packed with layers of flavor—savory, slightly spicy, and a hint of sweetness. I also tried their Papaya Salad ($7), which was fresh, tangy, and perfectly crunchy.
The service was quick, and the prices were hard to beat, especially for the quality of food. Sapp Coffee Shop is one of those hidden gems that you could easily walk past, but once you’ve eaten there, you’ll keep coming back.
6. Zankou Chicken: A Local Favorite for Mediterranean Fare
Another local favorite that you can’t miss is Zankou Chicken. This Mediterranean fast-casual chain has a few locations around LA, and it’s known for its juicy rotisserie chicken and addictive garlic sauce. I stopped by their West Hollywood location for a quick and affordable meal.
I ordered the Chicken Tarna Plate, which came with sliced rotisserie chicken, hummus, pita bread, salad, and their famous garlic sauce, all for around $10. The chicken was tender and flavorful, but the star of the show was that garlic sauce—it was creamy, pungent, and impossible to stop eating. I spread it on everything: the chicken, the pita, even the salad.
Zankou Chicken is a great spot if you’re craving Mediterranean flavors but don’t want to spend a lot. The portions are generous, and the food is consistently delicious.
7. Pine & Crane: Modern Taiwanese at a Great Price
For a taste of modern Taiwanese cuisine, Pine & Crane in Silver Lake is a fantastic option. The restaurant is casual, with an order-at-the-counter setup, but the food is anything but basic. I went there on a recommendation and was not disappointed.
I ordered the Beef Noodle Soup ($12) and an order of Scallion Pancakes ($5). The beef noodle soup was hearty and comforting, with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth. The scallion pancakes were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, a perfect appetizer to start the meal.
Pine & Crane also sources a lot of its produce from its family farm, which adds to the freshness of the dishes. For the quality and portion sizes, the prices here are more than reasonable, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy Taiwanese food without overspending.
8. Philippe The Original: The Birthplace of the French Dip
Last but not least, no list of budget-friendly eats in LA would be complete without mentioning Philippe The Original. Located near downtown LA, Philippe’s claims to be the birthplace of the French Dip sandwich, and it’s been serving them since 1908.
When I walked in, I was greeted by a charming, old-school vibe. The floors were covered in sawdust, and the counter staff wore traditional uniforms. I ordered the Beef French Dip Sandwich, which came with a side of au jus for dipping. At around $10, it was a great deal. The sandwich was simple but delicious—the roast beef was tender, and the au jus added a savory richness that made each bite better than the last.
Philippe’s is a great spot if you want a taste of LA history without spending a fortune.
Los Angeles may have a reputation for high-end dining and trendy, expensive restaurants, but there’s no shortage of delicious, budget-friendly options if you know where to look. From street tacos to iconic deli sandwiches, LA’s diverse food scene offers something for everyone. These eateries provide incredible flavors without the high price tag, proving that you can eat well in LA without spending a fortune.
