50 America’s Favorite Cheap Lunch Spots In Every State
Hunting for a tasty lunch that doesn’t drain your wallet can feel like searching for treasure.
Luckily, every state has at least one spot where deliciousness meets affordability.
Get ready to explore America’s most beloved budget-friendly lunch destinations that prove great food doesn’t need a hefty price tag.
1. Alabama – Saw’s Soul Kitchen
Craving smoky barbecue that won’t empty your pockets? Head straight to Birmingham’s beloved soul food haven where pulled pork and brisket reign supreme.
Locals swear by the nachos piled high with tender meat and tangy sauce.
Every bite delivers authentic Southern comfort at prices that’ll make you smile.
Address: 3621 8th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35222
2. Alaska – Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria
Way up north in Anchorage, pizza lovers have found their paradise where creative pies meet Alaskan hospitality.
Unique toppings like halibut and reindeer sausage make ordinary pizza extraordinary.
Wash down your slice with locally brewed craft beer while soaking in the relaxed vibe. Budget-conscious diners appreciate the generous portions that satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Address: 3300 Old Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99503
3. Arizona – Carolina’s Mexican Food
Phoenix residents know where to find authentic Mexican cuisine that tastes like abuela’s kitchen.
Family recipes passed down through generations create flavors you simply can’t replicate anywhere else.
Giant flour tortillas wrap around perfectly seasoned fillings at prices that seem stuck in the past.
Early birds arrive before the lunch rush to snag a table at this beloved institution.
Address: 1202 E Mohave St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
4. Arkansas – The Root Café
Little Rock’s farm-to-table gem proves healthy eating doesn’t require a fortune.
Seasonal menus change based on what local farmers harvest, guaranteeing freshness in every bite.
Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike find plenty to love on the creative menu.
Breakfast plates served all day mean you can enjoy scrambled eggs whenever hunger strikes.
Address: 1500 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202
5. California – In-N-Out
No California lunch list would be complete without mentioning this legendary burger chain that’s achieved cult status.
Simple menus focus on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than overwhelming customers with choices.
Secret menu items like Animal Style fries turn regular orders into flavor explosions.
Fresh ingredients and reasonable prices explain why lines wrap around buildings at lunchtime.
Address: Multiple locations throughout California
6. Colorado – Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs
Denver’s streets serve up wild game hot dogs that adventurous eaters dream about.
Elk, wild boar, and rattlesnake sausages sound intimidating but taste absolutely incredible.
Cream cheese and grilled onions might seem like odd toppings until you try them together.
Budget-friendly prices make experimenting with exotic meats totally risk-free and delicious.
Address: 2148 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
7. Connecticut – Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
New Haven’s pizza scene revolves around this iconic spot where coal-fired ovens create magic since 1925.
Charred, crispy crusts provide the perfect foundation for simple yet spectacular toppings.
White clam pizza put this place on the map and keeps people coming back for generations.
Expect lines during peak hours because legendary pizza always attracts devoted fans.
Address: 157 Wooster St, New Haven, CT 06511
8. Delaware – Capriotti’s
Wilmington birthed this sandwich empire that now spreads across America but started humbly in the First State.
Slow-roasted turkey gets pulled fresh daily, creating sandwiches that taste homemade rather than mass-produced.
Bobbie sandwich combines Thanksgiving flavors into one handheld masterpiece year-round.
Generous portions mean one sandwich easily becomes two meals without breaking your budget.
Address: 510 N Union St, Wilmington, DE 19805
9. Florida – La Sandwicherie
Miami Beach’s late-night legend serves French-style sandwiches that cure any craving at any hour.
Crispy baguettes get stuffed with fresh ingredients and drizzled with signature vinaigrette that makes everything sing.
Open-air seating lets you people-watch while munching on affordable perfection.
Club kids and families alike line up for sandwiches that taste gourmet without gourmet prices.
Address: 229 14th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139
10. Georgia – The Varsity
Atlanta’s massive drive-in has been slinging chili dogs and frosted oranges since 1928.
Servers shout “What’ll ya have?” the moment you approach the counter, creating an experience as memorable as the food.
Onion rings arrive hot and crispy, perfect for sharing or hoarding depending on your mood.
Prices remain shockingly low considering this place feeds thousands daily.
Address: 61 North Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30308
11. Hawaii – Rainbow Drive-In
Honolulu’s most famous plate lunch spot has been fueling locals and tourists since 1961. Generous portions include two scoops of rice, macaroni salad, and your choice of delicious proteins.
Mixed plates let indecisive diners sample multiple flavors without ordering separate meals. Presidents and celebrities have eaten here, yet prices stay refreshingly affordable for everyone.
Address: 3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
12. Idaho – Westside Drive In
Boise’s retro gem serves burgers and shakes that transport diners straight back to the 1950s.
Hand-formed patties sizzle on the grill while ice cream gets hand-scooped the old-fashioned way.
Finger steaks, an Idaho specialty, arrive hot and crispy with tangy dipping sauce.
Families pack the parking lot because quality food at fair prices never goes out of style.
Address: 1939 W State St, Boise, ID 83702
13. Illinois – Portillo’s
Chicago’s beloved chain masters the art of Italian beef sandwiches and perfectly dressed hot dogs.
Ordering a hot dog with ketchup might get you strange looks since true Chicagoans know better.
Chocolate cake shakes sound weird but taste absolutely heavenly and decadent.
Fast service and reasonable prices explain why locations stay packed from lunch through dinner.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Illinois
14. Indiana – Shapiro’s Delicatessen
Indianapolis has enjoyed authentic Jewish deli food at this family-owned institution since 1905.
Corned beef gets piled impossibly high between rye bread slices that can barely contain the filling.
Cafeteria-style service moves lines quickly even during the busiest lunch rushes.
Matzo ball soup warms souls while prices warm hearts by staying surprisingly reasonable.
Address: 808 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
15. Iowa – George’s Gyros
Iowa City’s Greek food favorite has been wrapping gyros since the 1970s.
Rotating meat cones get shaved fresh for each order, ensuring maximum flavor and juiciness in every bite.
Homemade tzatziki sauce provides cool contrast to warm, seasoned meat and vegetables.
College students and professors alike rely on these affordable meals to fuel their busy days.
Address: 312 E Market St, Iowa City, IA 52240
16. Kansas – Spangles
Wichita birthed this regional chain that Kansans defend fiercely against all other burger joints.
Fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation set these burgers apart from typical fast food fare.
Breakfast served all day means you can satisfy pancake cravings whenever they strike.
Prices stay competitive while quality remains consistently high across all locations.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Kansas
17. Kentucky – Indi’s Fast Food
Louisville’s soul food treasure serves up comfort classics that warm both stomach and spirit.
Fried chicken arrives perfectly crispy outside while staying juicy inside, just like grandma used to make.
Side dishes like mac and cheese and collard greens taste homemade because they actually are.
Generous portions at tiny prices make this spot a local favorite for decades.
Address: 1715 Dixie Hwy, Louisville, KY 40210
18. Louisiana – Mother’s Restaurant
New Orleans visitors and locals alike line up early for legendary po’boys stuffed with debris.
Roast beef gravy soaks into French bread, creating messy, magnificent sandwiches worth every napkin.
Breakfast options like biscuits and debris prove morning meals deserve equal attention.
Cafeteria-style ordering keeps costs down while quality stays sky-high.
Address: 401 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130
19. Maine – The Holy Donut
Portland’s most unique bakery crafts donuts using Maine potatoes for incredibly moist texture.
Sweet and savory flavors range from maple bacon to dark chocolate sea salt, pleasing every palate.
Lines form early because these handmade treats sell out fast daily.
Affordable prices mean you can sample multiple flavors without feeling guilty about your choices.
Address: 194 Park Ave, Portland, ME 04102
20. Maryland – Chaps Pit Beef
Baltimore’s pit beef tradition shines brightest at this no-frills roadside stand.
Beef gets grilled over charcoal then sliced razor-thin and piled high on Kaiser rolls with horseradish.
Turkey and pork options satisfy those seeking alternatives to the signature beef.
Cash-only policy and rock-bottom prices keep this Baltimore institution accessible to everyone.
Address: 5801 Pulaski Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21205
21. Massachusetts – Anna’s Taqueria
Boston’s burrito battle has a clear winner according to college students and office workers throughout the city.
Fresh ingredients get wrapped tightly in warm tortillas that never fall apart mid-bite.
Salsa bar lets diners customize heat levels from mild to mouth-scorching.
Quick service and budget-friendly prices explain why lines move fast despite constant crowds.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Massachusetts
22. Michigan – Lafayette Coney Island
Detroit’s oldest Coney Island restaurant has been perfecting chili dogs since 1924.
Natural casing hot dogs snap when you bite them, releasing juices that mix with meaty chili.
Rivalry with the neighboring American Coney Island creates friendly competition benefiting hungry customers.
Open 24 hours means you can satisfy Coney cravings at literally any time.
Address: 118 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
23. Minnesota – Matt’s Bar
Minneapolis claims invention of the Jucy Lucy, a burger with cheese sealed inside the patty.
Molten cheese erupts when you bite down, so patience prevents burned tongues from overeager diners.
Dive bar atmosphere adds character while keeping overhead costs refreshingly low.
Cash-only policy and no-frills service mean all resources go toward making exceptional burgers.
Address: 3500 Cedar Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55407
24. Mississippi – Ward’s
Jackson’s burger institution has been flipping patties since 1978 with unwavering consistency.
Simple menu focuses on doing burgers and fries exceptionally well rather than attempting too much.
Hand-cut fries arrive hot and crispy, perfect for dipping in creamy milkshakes.
Locals guard this treasure fiercely while welcoming newcomers to experience Mississippi burger perfection.
Address: 3946 Northview Dr, Jackson, MS 39206
25. Missouri – Town Topic
Kansas City’s 24-hour diner has been serving sliders and breakfast since 1937.
Counter seating puts you front-row to watch burgers sizzle on the flattop grill right before your eyes.
Onion rings come out golden and crunchy, disappearing faster than you can order more.
Rock-bottom prices and round-the-clock service make this spot perfect for any budget or schedule.
Address: 2021 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
26. Montana – Mark’s In & Out
Missoula’s beloved burger shack has been satisfying appetites since 1954 with simple, delicious food.
Hand-formed patties get cooked to order while real ice cream gets blended into thick shakes.
Outdoor picnic tables fill quickly during summer months with families and university students.
Wallet-friendly prices prove you don’t need fancy ingredients to create memorable meals.
Address: 2930 Brooks St, Missoula, MT 59801
27. Nebraska – Runza
Nebraska’s unique fast food chain serves Eastern European-inspired sandwiches found nowhere else.
Soft bread pockets get stuffed with seasoned beef, cabbage, and onions creating savory handheld perfection.
Crinkle-cut fries and homemade cinnamon rolls round out meals worth bragging about.
Regional pride runs deep since Runzas represent comfort food unique to the Cornhusker State.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Nebraska
28. Nevada – Earl of Sandwich
Las Vegas offers countless dining options, but budget-conscious visitors flock to this sandwich chain inside casinos.
Hot pressed sandwiches emerge from ovens with melted cheese and toasted bread creating textural perfection.
Original 1762 recipe sandwich combines roast beef, cheese, and horseradish in historical harmony.
Affordable prices let you save money for slot machines or show tickets instead.
Address: 3667 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
29. New Hampshire – Red Arrow Diner
Manchester’s iconic diner serves breakfast and lunch around the clock in true American diner fashion.
Presidential candidates campaign here while regular folks enjoy massive omelets and towering pancakes.
Comfort food classics arrive quickly and taste exactly how diner food should taste.
Reasonable prices and generous portions explain why this place stays packed regardless of the hour.
Address: 61 Lowell St, Manchester, NH 03101
30. New Jersey – Rutt’s Hut
Clifton’s legendary hot dog stand deep-fries dogs until the casings rip open, creating signature rippers.
Crispy exterior gives way to juicy interior, creating texture combinations impossible to achieve through grilling alone.
Relish bar lets customers pile on toppings until dogs disappear beneath mountains of condiments.
Cash-only counter service keeps operations simple and prices incredibly affordable.
Address: 417 River Rd, Clifton, NJ 07014
31. New Mexico – Frontier Restaurant
Albuquerque’s 24-hour institution feeds university students and travelers with massive portions of New Mexican cuisine.
Cinnamon rolls bigger than your head arrive warm and gooey, defying logic and dietary recommendations.
Green chile smothers everything, adding authentic New Mexican flavor to every dish.
Cafeteria-style service and rock-bottom prices make this spot accessible to absolutely everyone.
Address: 2400 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
32. New York – Joe’s Pizza
Greenwich Village’s most famous pizzeria has been folding perfect slices since 1975.
Thin crust achieves ideal balance between crispy and chewy while simple toppings let quality ingredients shine through.
Grab-and-go service means you can eat world-class pizza while walking Manhattan streets.
Celebrity sightings happen regularly, but affordable prices keep this place grounded and accessible.
Address: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
33. North Carolina – Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q
Eastern North Carolina barbecue tradition lives strong at this regional chain serving vinegar-based pulled pork.
Hush puppies arrive hot and crispy, perfect for soaking up tangy barbecue sauce from your plate.
Fried chicken provides alternatives for those who want poultry without smoke.
Family-friendly atmosphere and budget prices make this spot perfect for feeding hungry crowds.
Address: Multiple locations throughout North Carolina
34. North Dakota – Kroll’s Diner
Bismarck’s beloved diner combines American classics with German heritage creating unique menu offerings.
Knoephla soup, a regional specialty, warms bodies during brutal North Dakota winters with creamy, dumpling-filled goodness.
Burgers and homemade pies satisfy those seeking traditional diner fare done exceptionally well.
Affordable prices and friendly service create welcoming atmosphere for families and solo diners alike.
Address: 1915 E Main Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501
35. Ohio – Skyline Chili
Cincinnati’s unique chili tradition confuses outsiders but creates devoted fans among locals.
Mediterranean spices like cinnamon and chocolate create complex flavors unlike any chili you’ve tasted before.
Three-way, four-way, and five-way options let diners customize their spaghetti-chili-cheese combinations.
Quick service and low prices explain why Skyline remains a Cincinnati institution for generations.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Ohio
36. Oklahoma – Braum’s
Oklahoma’s dairy-based chain controls everything from cow to cone, ensuring freshness throughout production.
Burgers taste better because Braum’s owns the cattle ranch supplying the beef for every patty.
Ice cream gets made fresh daily in small batches using milk from their own dairy.
Vertical integration keeps costs down while quality stays consistently high across all locations.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Oklahoma
37. Oregon – Nong’s Khao Man Gai
Portland’s food cart scene shines brightest at this Thai chicken and rice specialist.
Simple menu focuses on perfecting one dish rather than overwhelming customers with endless choices.
Poached chicken sits atop jasmine rice with magical sauce that makes everything taste incredible.
Lines form daily because word spreads fast when food this good costs this little.
Address: 609 SE Ankeny St, Portland, OR 97214
38. Pennsylvania – Jim’s South Street
Philadelphia’s cheesesteak debate rages eternally, but Jim’s consistently ranks among the top contenders.
Thinly sliced ribeye gets chopped on the griddle then topped with your choice of cheese and onions.
Late-night hours accommodate bar crowds seeking sustenance after closing time.
Affordable prices and authentic preparation make this spot beloved by locals and tourists equally.
Address: 400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
39. Rhode Island – Olneyville N.Y. System
Providence’s hot wiener tradition reaches perfection at this legendary spot operating since 1946.
Meat sauce, mustard, onions, and celery salt create flavor combinations unique to Rhode Island’s culinary landscape.
Order yours “all the way” to experience authentic Rhode Island fast food culture.
Cash-only policy and no-frills atmosphere keep focus squarely on the delicious, affordable dogs.
Address: 18 Plainfield St, Providence, RI 02909
40. South Carolina – Rush’s
Charleston area residents have trusted this local chain for burgers and dogs since 1950.
Simple menu and efficient service mean you can grab lunch quickly without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Onion rings arrive hot and perfectly breaded, complementing burgers beautifully with satisfying crunch.
Family-owned operation keeps prices reasonable while maintaining standards that big chains can’t match.
Address: Multiple locations throughout South Carolina
41. South Dakota – Nick’s Hamburger Shop
Brookings has enjoyed sliders from this tiny shop since 1929 without changing much about the formula.
Thin patties get cooked on a griddle until edges crisp up while centers stay juicy and flavorful.
Pickles and onions provide classic accompaniments to simple, perfect burgers done right.
Prices seem frozen in time, making this historic spot accessible to students and families alike.
Address: 427 Main Ave, Brookings, SD 57006
42. Tennessee – Prince’s Hot Chicken
Nashville hot chicken originated at this unassuming spot that still serves the spiciest version around.
Cayenne-laced coating creates intense heat that challenges even the bravest spice enthusiasts to finish.
White bread and pickles provide cooling relief between bites of fiery chicken.
Cult following and reasonable prices mean this place stays busy despite minimal advertising or fancy decor.
Address: 123 Ewing Dr, Nashville, TN 37207
43. Texas – Torchy’s Tacos
Austin’s taco scene explodes with creativity, but Torchy’s stands out with inventive combinations and quality ingredients.
Fried avocado, poblano sauce, and queso transform ordinary tacos into extraordinary experiences worth bragging about.
Trailer Park taco, served trashy or classy, lets diners choose their adventure.
Expansion across Texas proves great tacos at fair prices always find devoted fans.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Texas
44. Utah – Crown Burgers
Salt Lake City’s unique contribution to burger culture adds pastrami to beef patties creating towering masterpieces.
Greek ownership influences menu offerings, resulting in gyros sitting alongside burgers in delicious harmony.
Fry sauce, a Utah staple, accompanies crispy fries for perfect dipping.
Family-friendly atmosphere and budget prices make this local chain beloved across the Beehive State.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Utah
45. Vermont – Al’s French Frys
Burlington’s seasonal fry stand has been perfecting hand-cut fries since 1946 using simple, quality ingredients.
Fresh potatoes get sliced daily then fried to golden perfection in small batches throughout the day.
Vinegar, ketchup, or gravy provide topping options for customizing your fry experience perfectly.
Lines form quickly once the weather warms because Vermonters know good fries when they taste them.
Address: 1251 Williston Rd, South Burlington, VT 05403
46. Virginia – Shrimp Shack
Virginia Beach visitors discover fresh seafood doesn’t require fancy restaurants or inflated prices at this casual spot.
Fried shrimp arrives hot and crispy while maintaining tenderness inside the golden breading.
Hush puppies and coleslaw round out seafood baskets perfectly for complete coastal dining experiences.
Casual atmosphere and reasonable prices make this spot perfect for families fresh off the beach.
Address: 2407 Pacific Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
47. Washington – Dick’s Drive-In
Seattle’s iconic burger chain has been serving simple, delicious food since 1954 without changing the formula.
Special sauce, pickles, and onions create flavor combinations that generations of Washingtonians crave constantly.
Tartar sauce on burgers seems weird until you try it and realize genius exists.
Prices stay remarkably low because Dick’s treats employees exceptionally well, proving good business supports everyone.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Washington
48. West Virginia – Tudor’s Biscuit World
West Virginia mornings start right with massive biscuit sandwiches stuffed with eggs, meat, and cheese.
Fluffy biscuits get made fresh throughout the day, ensuring quality whether you visit for breakfast or lunch.
Myrtle’s Chicken biscuit honors the founder while satisfying hungry coal miners and office workers equally.
Regional chain keeps prices affordable while portions stay generous enough to fuel hard work.
Address: Multiple locations throughout West Virginia
49. Wisconsin – Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Milwaukee’s frozen custard tradition shines brightest at this local institution serving burgers and creamy desserts.
Fresh custard gets made daily in rotating flavors that keep regular customers coming back constantly.
Butter burgers showcase Wisconsin’s dairy excellence while satisfying savory cravings before dessert.
Reasonable prices and generous portions explain why families pack the parking lot nightly.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Wisconsin
50. Wyoming – Liberty Burger
Jackson Hole’s burger spot proves mountain towns can serve sophisticated food without pretentious attitudes or prices.
Locally sourced beef and fresh toppings create burgers worthy of Wyoming’s stunning landscape surrounding them.
Sweet potato fries provide healthier alternatives to regular fries without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Casual atmosphere welcomes cowboys and tourists alike to enjoy quality food affordably.
Address: 155 N Center St, Jackson, WY 83001
