Louisville is a city with a lot of history, tons of character — and, perhaps most importantly, an incredibly wide range of fantastic food. Cheap eats: As with most aspects of spending time in Louisville and its unrivaled dining scene, one of the best things about it is the value: A supremely satisfying meal can be had without breaking the bank. Whether you have a yearning for classic comfort food, global flavors (exotic and reasonably priced), or just want to grab a casual bite, you’ll get all of what you want in Louisville. There are cozy diners, as well as ethnic eateries and casual spots, that cater to every palate and pocketbook here in Louisville.
I. Classic Comfort on a Budget
1. Burger Boy Diner
Burger Boy Diner is a Louisville favorite for classic American comfort food for prices that strain credulity. Among the many Louisville restaurants, their 24-hour diner is great for whatever meal is calling your name, from breakfast to lunch and anywhere in between. Other than the regular customers’ ordeal of needing to try once around, their burgers are extremely famous for being juicy and their fries crispy, with other must-tries including their hearty breakfast platter. The diner’s cozy and homey feel contributes to its charm. Price — Meals average about $5 to $10 per person, so it’s a good option on a budget.
2. Wagner’s Pharmacy
If you want a bite of old and a bit of nostalgia, head over to Wagner’s Pharmacy. This classic Louisville diner has been feeding residents since 1922 and is best known for its Southern-style comfort food. They have a popular breakfast menu with items such as biscuits and gravy. There is nothing fancy however be fantastic place to have a meal in warm old fashioned setting with friendly service. Most dishes between $5 and $12 per person; reasonable prices.
3. Dizzy Whizz
Another Louisville classic diner, Dizzy Whizz will not disappoint. Whizzburger and Whizz Kid burgers headline the menu at this retro diner supplying American comfort foods. It´s a casual environment and everyone is around you makes you feel like you´re having lunch with friends. Everything is priced $5-$10 so it’s the spot for inexpensive filling fare.
II. Global Flavors Without the High Price Tag
1. Roots
Roots Root Hall Small but delicious Thai cafe with $$$ food at $ prices. Family-Owned Casual eatery — known for its signature Pad Thai and Green Curry. The atmosphere is cozy inviting and it makes a great place to unwind and enjoy some home cooking. The prices of most dishes are between $10 and $15 per person, extremely cheap for the quality and authenticity.
2. La Rosita
For good, low-cost Mexican fare, it’s hard to beat the likes of La Rosita when it comes to this Louisville restaurant. Tacos, enchiladas, and burritos are traditional Mexican favorites on the menu. Gotta get the Tacos al Pastor for a taste of rich and tender meat in a signature dish. What you get back for such a low price is good size portions of flavorful dishes ($8-$12/person).
3. Queen of Sheba
Queen of Sheba, Ethiopian cuisine at its finest, offers a one-of-a-kind, economical dining experience. Guests can eat the likes of Doro Wat (spicy chicken stew) and a selection of vegetarian options all served on injera, a traditional Ethiopian flatbread. Plus, the seating arrangement mimics community dining and the ambiance is very homely. Most meals are just $10 to $15 per person and reasonably priced.
III. Lunch Spots that Won’t Break the Bank
1. Tom + Chee
The Union also has a super cheap and quick lunch spot perfect for a faster meal: Tom + Chee. This fun grilled cheese and tomato soup restaurant has a whole host of unique and tasty options on its menu. Be sure to try the Bacon Mac & Cheese Grilled Cheese. Lunch specials and combos are found here, and usually cost you $5 to $10 per head.
2. The Table
The Table is a community cafe that serves healthy, tasty and affordable meals. It includes sandwiches, salads, and daily specials, using farm to table local ingredients. It accommodates just 18 people at a time, but the friendly atmosphere made it a great place to visit — not to mention prices start at just $10, which is a bargain in Sydney. The suggested price is about $5-$10 per person, but diners are welcome to what they can.
3. New Wave Burritos
The lunch purchase is sweet and cheap —New Wave Burritos. A laid-back joint serving up one-of-a-kind burritos, like the signature Buffalo Chicken Burrito. With great service and a relaxed feel in the air, it’s a good spot for a fast feed. Burritos range from $8 to $12 each
IV. Casual Eats with Big Flavor
1. Hammerheads
Hammerheads is that little hidden spot in Louisville where delicious, creative comfort food is just waiting for your tastebuds to arrive. Their menu presents a cross-section of options from smoked meats and Preposterous Burgers to a few variations of Tacos. Recommended: Elk Burger & Duck Fat Fries The laid back, unpolished surroundings contributes to the restaurants idyllic nature. Very good prices with most dishes costing between $10 and $15 per person.
2. Feast BBQ
Feast BBQ Feast BBQ is reliably the go to for good barbecue in a laid back setting. There are smoked meats, sandwiches, and sides galore, and all of it is pretty tasty. Highlights here are the Pulled Pork Sandwich and the Loaded Tots. This place is perfect to enjoy a relaxed meal in an easy-going environment. The prices are generally between $8 and $15 per person.
3. The Post
It bakes delectable NY-style pizza and operates in a comfortable and casual atmosphere. The menu is comprised of a number of options such as pizzas, calzones and some delicious appetizers all made with quality ingredients. Must-have menu item: Buffalo Chicken Pizza Most pizzas land between $10 and $20 pricewise, making it a solid option for pizza on a budget.
V. Bonus: Pro-Tips for Saving on Your Meal
If you are dining on a dime in Louisville, here are some ways to make your meal even cheaper. Check to see if your local Louisville restaurant has happy hour specials in which you can order inexpensive drinks and appetizers. Restaurant week is the perfect way to sample the best restaurants in town at a fraction of the regular price. Also, opt for a BYOB( Bring Your Own Bottle) service, where you can bring in your own wine or beer and save cost on drinks.
VI. Conclusion
Whatever your budget let us help you navigate the list of deliciously affordable eats contributing to Louisville’s unstoppable food scene. If you like classic American diners or exotic global flavors, where you can savor a wide range of casual comfort food, look no further than the best restaurants in Louisville. Save money and check out one of these awesome and affordable restaurants and find a new spot to eat in town!