The 16 Best Cheap Eats in Chicago

Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago is a renowned fast food restaurant located in the heart of Chicago, offering a range of delectable options for diners. The establishment provides various services including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, drive-through, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for its fast service, Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago is a popular choice for those looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Customers have shared rave reviews about their experiences at Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago. Some key points from the reviews include:

• A classic Chicago hot dog that was incredibly balanced and delicious, with fresh veggies and a light bun.
• Delicious food that exceeded expectations, including the Chicago-style hot dog and famous chocolate cake.
• An efficient and enjoyable dining experience, with ample seating and quick service.

The atmosphere at Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago is described as casual and family-friendly, making it an ideal spot for groups and solo diners alike. With options for vegetarians, late-night food lovers, and those seeking a quick bite, this establishment caters to a diverse range of tastes. Whether you're in the mood for lunch, dinner, or dessert, Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Little Goat Diner is a popular spot in Chicago known for its diverse menu and cozy atmosphere. Customers rave about the friendly service and delicious food, making it a must-visit for those looking for a great dining experience. Some of the key points from customer reviews include:

• Accommodating to dietary restrictions
• Generous portion sizes
• Creative and detailed dishes
• Great atmosphere

Whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Little Goat Diner has something for everyone. With options for vegan and vegetarian diets, as well as a variety of cocktails and wine, there's no shortage of choices to satisfy your craving. Don't miss out on this gem of a diner in the heart of Chicago!

Jim's Original is a renowned hot dog stand in Chicago, offering a variety of mouthwatering options like Polish sausages, fries, and specialty hot dogs. Customers rave about the affordable prices and friendly service they receive at this historic spot. They particularly love the fast service and delicious comfort food that Jim's Original is known for.

Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

• "The best hot dog place in Chicago! Affordable price with free fries. The sausage and peppers were really good. Service was better than expected."
• "Great historic spot with fast service. Ordered a Polish sausage sandwich and loved it. Comes with seasoned fries and sport peppers for around $6, which is a great price."
• "Extremely popular and worth the hype. Super fast service with delicious, low-cost meals. Highly recommended for a quick bite."

Eleven City Diner is a modern Jewish deli located in Chicago, offering a variety of dining options such as breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The business is known for its great coffee and comfort food that keeps customers coming back. With service options like kerbside pickup and no-contact delivery, Eleven City Diner ensures a safe and convenient experience for everyone.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• Fantastic modern Jewish deli with delicious food and friendly staff.
• Efficient and personable service with a decent menu selection and creative drinks.
• Good food, fresh ingredients, and large portions, although service may be lacking at times.
• Huge portions, great staff, and a nostalgic atmosphere that makes customers want to return.

Whether you are craving a filling breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying dinner, Eleven City Diner is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. With a rating of 4.6 stars, this diner is a must-visit spot in Chicago for a delicious and memorable dining experience.

Billy Goat Tavern (The Original) is an iconic hamburger restaurant located in Chicago, Illinois. This establishment offers a variety of service options, including No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Known for its fast service and sports atmosphere, Billy Goat Tavern is popular for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

Customers have praised this establishment for its quick service and delicious food. Some key points from customer reviews:

• A legend by its own right with quick burger preparation and delicious options, especially the cheezborger.
• Iconic Chicago institution with fast, friendly service offering a unique Old Chicago atmosphere.
• Transporting you back in time with great prices, delicious food, and cold beers, creating a nostalgic experience.
• Great hidden gem with excellent homemade beers, outstanding hamburgers, and a historic atmosphere.

Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor is a beloved fast food restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Whether you prefer outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, drive-through, takeaway, or dine-in options, Portillo's has got you covered. Known for its fast service, it is a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about their experiences at Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor. Some of the key points from the reviews include:

• Authentic Chicago style hotdogs in a lovely American atmosphere.
• Decently priced and satisfying meal options, including the famous Chocolate Cake Shake.
• Great service, enjoyable food, and a comfortable atmosphere for dining in.
• Fast service, delicious food, and friendly staff make it a must-visit spot.

With its diverse menu offerings, comfortable dining options, and excellent service, Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor is a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. Experience a taste of Chicago with a visit to this iconic eatery!

Cafecito is a charming Cuban restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. They offer a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great coffee, and great tea selection, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Customers rave about their experience at Cafecito, highlighting a few key points:

• A small unassuming enclave, full of BIG flavor; with a relaxed yet professional environment. The food was amazing, staff polite, and coffee top shelf.
• Service was efficient. Coffee was outstanding, and the food was hot, fast, and delicious with good size portions.
• The food is delicious, with spectacular seasoning, great value, and friendly service. 100% recommended.

These glowing reviews are a testament to the quality and experience that Cafecito provides to its customers. Make sure to stop by and enjoy a taste of Cuba right in Chicago.

Devil Dawgs on State is a popular hot dog restaurant located in Chicago, Illinois. They offer a variety of services including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the fast service and the restaurant is known for being great for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• Delicious and unique hot dog options
• Great customer service
• Fast preparation and delivery
• Cozy and casual atmosphere

Al's #1 Italian Beef is a beloved sandwich shop in Chicago that offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, drive-through, and more. Known for its fast service, it is a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customers rave about Al's Italian beef, highlighting key points such as:

• The tender and juicy beef is perfectly sauced with gravy
• The hot peppers add just the right balance of spice
• The sandwiches are generously filled with meat and flavorful
• The service is quick and efficient

With a high rating of 4.4, it's no wonder that patrons keep coming back for the delicious Italian beef sandwiches and friendly atmosphere at Al's #1 Italian Beef.

Cafecito is a charming Cuban restaurant located in Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood. The restaurant offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in for customers to enjoy their delicious meals. With highlights like fast service and great coffee, Cafecito is a favorite spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner among locals and tourists alike.

The atmosphere at Cafecito is casual, cosy, and trendy, making it the perfect place for solo dining or gathering with groups. Customers rave about the well-prepared and served breakfast items, with many highlighting the flavorful dishes and the great coffee that complements the experience.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• Delicious and well-made dishes, with a standout beef Ropa con Papa and Cafe with Ron.
• Generous portions and flavorful combinations, like the chivito sandwich and caldo gallego soup.
• Accommodating and attentive staff who cater to dietary restrictions and provide delicious alternatives.
• Perfectly balanced espresso drinks, like the cafe con leche and cafecito, along with tasty vegan sandwich options.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Cafecito offers a delightful dining experience with excellent service and a menu that reflects the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine.

Chicken Planet is a popular chicken restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, providing comfort food, healthy options, and a quick bite.

Customer reviews rave about Chicken Planet's delicious menu items and excellent service. Here are some key points from their reviews:

• The pita is to die for, with great mild sauce and tasty rice and mashed potatoes.
• Great value for a $11 half chicken meal with crispy chicken and flavorful sides.
• Good quality dark meat chicken with a quick and friendly service for a to-go meal.
• The chicken wrap is outstanding with delicious spicy and sweet salsas, perfect for a quick and budget-friendly meal.

Experience the blend of flavors and quick service at Chicken Planet, where both locals and tourists can enjoy a satisfying meal at an affordable price.

Seoul Taco is a vibrant restaurant located in Chicago, IL, that offers a variety of delicious Korean-Mexican fusion dishes. With a solid rating of 4.4 stars, it is clear that customers love the flavorful and creative dishes served here.

• Customers rave about the incredible food, friendly staff, and excellent atmosphere.
• The quantity and quality of the food for the price are highly appreciated.
• The cozy interior and variety of seating options make dining at Seoul Taco a pleasant experience.

Whether you are looking to dine in, take out, or have your meal delivered, Seoul Taco has got you covered. The menu boasts a variety of options, including tacos, burritos, and bowls, with offerings like Bulgogi elote quesadillas and kimchi fried rice that keep customers coming back for more. With a focus on providing an enjoyable dining experience for everyone, this restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to expand their culinary horizons.

White Palace Grill is a classic 24-hour diner located in Chicago, IL. They offer a range of service options including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in for those looking to enjoy their delicious comfort food. Known for their fast service and great coffee, this spot is a favorite for many, especially those seeking a quick bite or small plates.

• Old school 24hr diner with friendly staffs, regulars, and comfort food.
• The big menu offers sandwiches as specialties, and fresh fruit salad is a surprising addition to balance out the meal.
• Custmers frequently come out feeling full but not overwhelmed by grease or fat.

Recent reviews highlight the mixed experiences customers have had. While some have praised the fast service and variety of offerings, others have noted issues with food quality and ambiance. Despite this, many have appreciated the convenience and classic diner feel this place provides. So whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, satisfying lunch, or comforting dinner, White Palace Grill welcomes you to experience their historic and cozy atmosphere.

Maxwell Street Depot is a popular fast food restaurant located in Chicago. Known for its late-night food and quick bite offerings, this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Customers rave about the friendly service and delicious, greasy food that hits the spot every time.

• Customers appreciate the affordable prices and quick service, making it a go-to spot for a filling meal.
• The polish sausage and burgers are highly recommended, especially when topped with flavorful grilled onions.
• Despite the basic menu, the food is outstanding and perfect for a late-night snack after a concert or a long day out.
• The CASH ONLY policy and lack of seating add to the authentic Maxwell Street experience, where customers enjoy their meals in their cars, surrounded by the irresistible aroma of grilled onions.

Cafecito is a charming Cuban restaurant located in Chicago. Known for its fast service and great coffee, it's a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and solo dining. The restaurant offers various service options, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The atmosphere is described as casual and trendy, attracting both tourists and university students.

• This place may never have pastelitos or croquetas when customers walk in, but they have the tastiest cafecito (Cuban coffee) in the city.
• Customers rave about the vegan menu, with one person excited to try the La Playa sandwich and already planning to return.
• A visitor describes the Cubano sandwich and sweet plantains as "so good" and highly recommends the place for a visit.
• Despite some dissatisfaction with food quality on an off day, the majority express appreciation for the delicious coffee and cozy atmosphere.

Express Grill is a popular hot dog restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of services and features that make it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. Some of the highlights of this establishment include fast service, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even solo dining. This establishment is known for offering comfort food, great for a quick bite, especially as they provide late-night food.

Customer reviews rave about the experience at Express Grill. Here are some key points summarizing the reviews:

• Customers love the opportunity to customize their orders, particularly the option to split and grill the Polish Sausage to enhance the flavor.
• Pricing is considered affordable, with the ability to feed multiple people for a reasonable cost.
• The fast service and open late hours make it a go-to spot for a quick and tasty meal, especially after a night out.
• Staff members are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, adding to the overall positive dining experience.