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Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the borough of Manhattan? With a staggering 20,000 restaurants to choose from, finding the best dining experience can take time and effort. But fear not, fellow food enthusiasts! We here at the Pod Hotels® have got you covered with a handpicked list of seven affordable and tasty meals that won't put a dent in your wallet.

One of the most exciting aspects of dining on a budget in Manhattan is that each neighborhood has a unique style and food culture. So, while you dine on what Manhattan has to offer, take some time to explore the surrounding area. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets or grab your meal to go and enjoy it in one of the parks nearby.

Prepare to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank as we unveil a delicious selection of wallet-friendly dining options. From cozy cafés to vibrant street food, this guide is your ticket to gastronomic bliss in the heart of Manhattan. So let's dive in and discover where to find the best affordable eats in the Big Apple.

The first thing to know about Katz’s Deli is that it's loud. Thanks to the many NYC natives and tourists, this iconic establishment is always packed, bustling with activity and excitement at all hours of the day. The second thing to know is that Katz’s Deli has been around since 1903, serving some of the best sandwiches in NYC. Picture layers of expertly cured meat stacked sky-high and generously slathered with zesty mustard. And here's a little insider tip: If you ask nicely, they might just offer you a taste as they hand-slice each cut of meat.

Photo by Wally Gobetz

As its name suggests, the Corner Bistro stands at the intersection of Jane and West Fourth St. in the beautiful, tree-lined West Village. This New York institution is known for having one of the best hamburgers in the city. Plump, buttery, and impossible to put down, the burger at Corner Bistro is best served with an ice-cold beer straight from the tap.

Photo by Sun Brockie

For decades, the Ukrainian diner Veselka has been a beloved culinary institution in the heart of the East Village. Imagine sinking your teeth into their crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside pierogies and savoring their soul-warming chicken soup—a taste nourishing your body and spirit. When the Covid economic crunch threatened to close the diner, the neighborhood rallied, ensuring Veselka’s doors remained open. Step into Veselka, and you'll instantly feel like you've entered your grandmother's kitchen.

Photo by: yelp, Ben L.

New York’s Chinatown is a haven for affordable and delicious cheap eats, from pork dumplings flecked with ginger to umami-packed rice noodles. Mei Lai Wah has an extensive menu of dim sum favorites and soups, but what steals the show is the steamed pork buns. Get excited for a fluffy, soft bun enfolding BBQ pork that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory—a delicious combination that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Photo by Adam Fagen

When it comes to falafel sandwiches, Mamoun’s has achieved legendary status. This culinary gem remains open until the wee hours of 4 am, making it the go-to spot to satiate your hummus and pita cravings after a day of shopping in SOHO or when you have a late-night craving after one too many Manhattans. So whether you need a midday refuel or a late-night fix, Mamoun’s is the ultimate destination for a delectable falafel experience.

If you’re lucky enough to arrive at Sobaya at the right time of day, you’ll find a chef making noodles by hand while standing in a glass box. Twice daily, these noodles are pulled into place, ready to be steamed, and served in rich, warm broth. Sobaya is also known for its rice bowls filled with beautiful sashimi, fresh and thinly sliced.

The perfectly thin and chewy pizza slice is the official food of New York City. On every corner, you’ll find a pizza shop claiming to be the best or the most famous, but in our opinion, Joe’s Pizza is the real MVP. The slices here are big and cheesy, and the tomato sauce is fresh with a hint of sweetness. Joe's is the perfect spot to master the art of the signature NYC Pizza slice fold.

Before you embark on your culinary adventure, check into the Pod Hotels® for a cozy place to stay in the best neighborhoods in New York! For more information on our unique, smartly designed rooms for every budget, click below.